How to Clean a Vacuum Cleaner That Smells?

Vacuum cleaner - our indispensable home cleaning assistant. However, have you ever noticed that over time, this hard-working little buddy may give off some less friendly smells, making an otherwise pleasant cleaning time a little awkward? Don't worry, today we'll explore that question together. Let you quickly learn how to clean a vacuum cleaner that smells.

Common Reasons for Vacuum Cleaner Smells

First, let's take a deeper look at the vacuum cleaner’s bad smell and the common causes.

• The filter is blocked.Dust and debris inhaled by the vacuum cleaner will accumulate in the filter for a long time. This will not only reduce the efficiency of vacuuming, but also become a breeding ground for bacteria. Over time, these bacteria develop an unpleasant smell.
• Pet hair build-up. This is a common problem for families with pets. Pet hair can easily be inhaled and left inside the vacuum cleaner. Over time, these hairs develop a distinctive smell.
• Food debris spoilage. Sometimes, we may accidentally breathe in some scraps of food. The debris rots inside the vacuum cleaner. Although this is not common, when it does happen, the odor problem can become quite tricky.
• Moisture residue.Using a vacuum cleaner on a wet surface can cause internal water accumulation. This will not only affect vacuum cleaner performance, but may also cause mold. In the long run, it will produce an unpleasant odor.

By understanding these causes, we can address the problem more specifically. Next, we'll cover useful steps on how to fix smelly vacuum cleaner.

How to Get Rid of Vacuum Cleaner Smell? Step-by-Step Guide

Want to get rid of the vacuum cleaner smells completely? Don't worry, follow these steps and your vacuum cleaner will be fresh again in no time.

Step 1. Get Cleaning Supplies

Before you begin, prepare the following items.

• Mild cleaner
• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Cleaning brush
• Microfiber cloth
• Spare filter (if necessary)

Step 2. Empty and Clean the Dust Bucket

First, turn off the vacuum cleaner and unplug it. Then, dump the garbage in the dust bucket into the trash can. Next, clean the dust bucket thoroughly with mild, soapy water. Finally, rinse it off and let it dry completely before reinstalling it on the vacuum cleaner.

Step 3. Clean or Replace the Filter

Remove the filter from the vacuum cleaner. Check if it can be cleaned, or if it needs to be replaced. If it can be cleaned, soak it in warm soapy water, then rinse it off and let it dry. If not, replace the filter with a new one according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 4. Check and Clean the Brush Roller

Remove the brush roller and carefully remove tangled hair and debris with a cleaning brush. If the brush roller can be cleaned, wash it with warm soapy water. After cleaning, make sure the brush roller is completely dry before reinstalling.

Step 5. Wipe the Vacuum Cleaner

Mix water and white vinegar in a 1:1 ratio and use the solution to moisten a microfiber cloth. Then, carefully wipe the exterior and interior surfaces of the vacuum cleaner. Pay special attention to areas that are prone to accumulating dust and debris.

Step 6. Deodorize with Baking Soda

Finally, sprinkle some baking soda on the trash and filter. Let it sit for a few hours to fully absorb the remaining odor. After that, knock them out or vacuum them away.

If you ever feel that the process is overwhelming, remember that you can always rely on a robot vacuum: 

Preventative Measures to Keep Your Vacuum Cleaner Fresh

We have put together some precautions that can help your vacuum cleaner stay fresh for the long term.

• Regular maintenance.Cleaning regularly is an important habit to get into. When the dust bucket, refuse filter, and brush roller are completely cleaned 1-2 times a week, it can effectively prevent dust accumulation in these parts, the smell will be less.
• Use vacuum fresheners.There are specially made fresheners or scented tables for vacuum cleaners. Using one of these products sparingly can help provide a fresh scent to your vacuum cleaner.
• Avoid cleaning wet surfaces.Try not to vacuum wet areas. This is to prevent moisture from entering the vacuum cleaner and will greatly reduce any chance of producing mold inside.
• Pet hair management.If you have pets at home, then it is advised that you should go for a vacuum cleaner suitable to pet hairs. These will get into the pet hair better and help eliminate odors.

eufy Vacuum Cleaner Makes a Difference

eufy handheld vacuum cleaners are certainly a solid option when it comes to the spectrum of high-quality vacuum cleaners. It uses a number of progressive technologies to keep your home clean and pleasant. A prime example of this innovation is the eufy HomeVac H11, which is lightweight, compact, and completely cordless, weighing just 1.2 pounds. It features a 5500Pa dust-devouring suction power, a 2-in-1 crevice tool for hard-to-reach areas, and convenient micro USB charging. The HomeVac H11 is designed for effortless cleaning and storage, making it an excellent choice for quick cleanups.

Conclusion

Keeping the vacuum cleaner clean and odor-free is an important part of maintaining home hygiene. By following our cleaning guide on how to clean a vacuum cleaner that smells, you can keep your vacuum cleaner in top condition at all times. In addition, developing good habits, combined with a high-quality vacuum cleaner like eufy, will definitely take your cleaning experience to the next level. Let's work together to create a cleaner and healthier home environment!

FAQs

Why is my vacuum making a smell?

The smell of a vacuum cleaner is usually due to the accumulation of dust, debris or moisture inside. Clogged filters, dirty dust bins, pet hair build-up, rotting food scraps, or damp interiors can all cause odors. Regular cleaning and maintenance can effectively prevent this problem.

Why does my room smell weird after vacuuming?

It may be because your vacuum cleaner itself is not clean and gives off odors while working. In addition, the process of vacuuming stirred up the deposited dust, temporarily changing the smell of the room is also a possible cause.

What helps my vacuum smell like dog?

Maybe your dog's hair got sucked up by the vacuum cleaner and that's why it smells like a dog.