Today we’re tackling this daily task in the Weekly Household Planner: Vacuuming.
This post is not really about actual vacuuming, but what I’m going to go over will make your task of vacuuming much easier. It is about cleaning your vacuum and maintaining it.
I thoroughly clean my vacuum about four times per year; meaning I take the vacuum apart, wash the pieces with warm, soapy water, and air dry. I also clean the beater brush that tends to get cluttered with wrapped around pet hair, human hair (yes, I have a teen with long, long hair!), threads, and other strings that can get stuck in the brush.
Here are a few tips and steps for cleaning your vacuum and making it work better for you:
1. Before you do anything, make sure your vacuum is unplugged!
2. Find your owner’s manual so you will have information on how to remove your filter and take apart pieces that can be cleaned.
3. I like to take my vacuum apart outside, as excess dust and dirt tends to find its way everywhere.
4. Remove your filter and wash it under warm water. Depending on the type of vacuum you have, follow the instructions that are given in your manual. My Dyson vacuum can be taken completely apart and washed out. I love that there is no bag to mess with and that I can see that it is clean. I love this vacuum!
A quick funny story on this – I’ve had Dyson vacuums for over 10 years and bought my first one when I was cleaning houses as a second job when I was a single mom. I feel in love! I actually wanted a new one about three years ago and my hubby bought me one for my birthday and it was the best birthday present ever – seriously! It is a chunk of change, but if you are looking for a new vacuum, check Craigslist or eBay for a gently used one. I sold my previous one on Craigslist and that person was very happy! Back to cleaning the vacuum.
5. Make sure that all the pieces are thoroughly dry before putting it all back together. I make sure that I do not have vacuuming planned for at least two days when I clean my vacuum, as I want to allow enough time for the pieces to dry in order to avoid a dusty, icky mess.
If you take the time to clean your beloved machine on a regular basis, it will run smoother and cleaner – which makes everyone happy!
When I am done I love to take a cotton ball, add a few drops of essential oils to it (like Purification or Lavender), and put it inside the casing. It adds such a lovely fragrance when I am vacuuming.
Do you have a favorite vacuum?
