How to maintain and clean your vacuum cleaner

How to maintain and clean your vacuum

Has your hoover lost its suction? We explain how to get it up and running again with our step-by-step guide.

How to maintain your vacuum and keep suction strong...

1. Clean the vacuum cleaner floor head and brush bar.

Depending on the model, you'll either need to carefully cut along the brush bar and pull the hair out with your hands, or, if your vacuum has a removable brush bar, pull it out and then cut away hair and fluff and pull it off before reinserting.

2. Clean the vacuum filter

There are two filters on nearly every vacuum cleaner: motor filter (usually found at the back near where the exhaust from the vacuum is emitted) and allergen filter (typically nearer to the dust container, or bag.)

You should clean these two filters regularly, usually at least once a month. Check your manual for advice on where the filters are and how to clean them, as it can differ by model.

3. Check the vacuum cleaner bag and dust container

- Bagless vacuums

Ideally, empty yours after every use - particularly if the dust capacity is less than a litre (common on cordless vacuums). Check where the max fill line is on the canister - you might be surprised to find it only around a third of the way up.

- Bagged vacuums

Replacement bag costs can add up, so you'll want to get the most out of each dustbag on a bagged model. But if you're finding suction levels dwindling, check the bag. If it's full up, switching it over to a fresh one can help restore suction quickly.

4. Check the vacuum belt

If you’ve got an upright vacuum and the spinning brush has stopped working, there’s a good chance the belt needs fixing (if it has one). This is a relatively easy fix and only costs a couple of pounds.

For more vacuum care and troubleshooting tips, visit which.co.uk/reviews/vacuum-cleaners/article/how….

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