Cleaning a bagless vacuum cleaner isn't complicated, but most people skip it until something goes wrong, like weak suction, a stale smell, or dust blowing back out. This guide walks you through the full process step by step, so you can get your machine running like new again in about 20 minutes.
What You Need Before Cleaning a Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
Gather these before you start so you're not hunting for supplies mid-way through:
|
Item |
Purpose |
|
Warm water & mild soap |
Cleaning the dust bin and non-electronic parts |
|
Microfiber cloth |
Wiping down surfaces inside and out |
|
Small scissors or seam ripper |
Cutting tangled hair and threads off the brush roll |
|
Soft brush (old toothbrush works) |
Scrubbing filters and tight corners |
|
Compressed air (optional) |
Blowing fine dust out of hard-to-reach spots |
How to Clean a Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
After gathering all tools, cleaning your bagless vacuum becomes a quick and worthwhile task to keep it running strong. Let’s go through the steps to clear out dust, grime, and clogs the right way.
1. Empty the Dirt Bin
Empty the canister into a trash bag. Doing it outside can help if dust is a problem. Give the bin a gentle tap on the sides to loosen anything stuck at the bottom.
2. Disassemble the Main Components
Disconnect the hose, remove the bin, and pull out the filters. If your model allows, pop off the brush roll cover too. Check your manual before forcing any clips, as plastic parts crack easily.
3. Wash the Bin and Cyclone Chamber
Rinse the bin with warm, soapy water. Skip harsh chemicals; they can cloud the plastic over time. Use a soft cloth to get into the bottom corners where gunk builds up.
4. Clean or Replace the Filters
Most bagless vacuums use washable foam filters or pleated filters. Rinse them under cold water until the water runs clear. Let them air-dry all the way before putting them back, since a damp filter can lead to mold.
HEPA filters are often different and usually shouldn’t be washed. Check the label first. Many HEPA filters need replacing every 6–12 months.
5. Dust the Inside Compartments
Wipe the area where the dirt bin sits. Dust often builds up around the seals. When the seals get dirty, the bin may not sit tight, and suction can drop.
6. Clear the Brush Roll
Hair and string often wrap around the roller over time, which makes the motor work harder than it should. Use scissors to cut through the tangles, then pull everything free.
For homes where hair buildup is a constant issue, a model like the eufy Robot Vacuum E20 can make maintenance easier. Its auto-detangling roller brush helps reduce hair wrap in the first place, cutting down on how often manual cleaning is needed.
Besides, if you have the eufy Robot Vacuum E20 as a secondary vacuum handy, you can use its handheld mode for sucking up the debris you've just loosened.
7. Check for Clogs in Hoses and Airways
Drop a coin or small ball through the hose. If it doesn’t come out the other end, a clog is blocking the way. Use a broom handle to gently nudge the blockage loose, but stop if it won’t move easily.
8. Clean the Attachments
Crevice tools and upholstery brushes can hold a lot of hidden grime, like dust, pet hair, and lint. Soak them in warm, soapy water, scrub if needed, then let them dry fully before putting them back.
9. Wipe Down the Exterior
Use a damp microfiber cloth to clean the outside of the vacuum. Check the wheels too. Grit stuck in the wheels can scratch floors.
10. Air Dry Thoroughly
Every part needs time to dry completely. Let components air dry for at least 24 hours. Putting damp parts back can lead to mold or even damage the motor.
11. Reassemble the Vacuum
When everything is bone-dry, clip the pieces back in place. Make sure the seals sit flat and tight, since good seals help keep suction strong.
Easy Maintenance Tips for Your Bagless Vacuum
A few small habits keep your vacuum running well between deep cleans:
- Empty early and often. Don't wait for the "Max" line. A half-full bin moves more air than a packed one. The same goes for filters. Give them a few taps over the trash between washes to knock loose surface dust and keep airflow strong.
- Check the brush roll monthly. Check the brush roll once a month. A quick snip of tangled hair helps prevent belt wear and reduces motor strain. If you have pets, check it every two weeks, since fur wraps around the roller quickly.
- Keep it dry and stored indoors. Never vacuum up liquid unless your machine is rated for wet/dry use. And skip the damp garage for storage; humidity causes mold in filters and rust on metal parts. A closet inside the house is ideal.
- Don't ignore warning signs. Strange noises, weak suction even after cleaning, or a burning smell often mean something is stuck, clogged, or worn out. Fixing the issue early can prevent motor damage later. Belts, filters, and brush bristles are usually cheap and easy to replace at home.
Prefer Less Effort? Consider a Robot Vacuum with Self-Cleaning Dock
Deep cleaning a bagless vacuum takes time, and not everyone wants to keep up with it. Robot vacuums are a lot more hands-off now. Many higher-end models come with a self-cleaning dock that empties the dustbin and even washes the mopping pads, so weeks can pass without much effort on your side. The eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S2 is a good example of that kind of setup.
Not everyone needs every extra feature, though. For simple daily cleaning, especially dust and pet hair, the eufy E28 covers the basics well. It has strong suction, self-detangling brushes, and a dock that handles the emptying. Either way, vacuum maintenance becomes a much smaller job.
Conclusion
Cleaning a bagless vacuum cleaner helps it work better and keeps the air in your home cleaner. The 11 steps above cover filters, hoses, and the main parts that trap dust, and you don’t need special tools or skills. Keep up with small clean-ups, and the vacuum will last longer and pick up dirt more easily. If you ever want an easier, more hands-off option, eufy has robot vacuums that can help cut down the upkeep.
FAQs
How do you clean a bagless vacuum cleaner?
To clean a bagless vacuum, start by emptying the bin and removing all detachable parts like filters and hoses. Wash the bin with mild soap and water. Rinse the washable filters under a cold tap until the water is clear. Use scissors to remove hair from the brush roll and check the hoses for blockages. Most importantly, let all parts air dry for 24 hours before reassembling to prevent motor damage or odors.
How to freshen a bagless vacuum cleaner?
The best way to freshen a vacuum is to clean the filters and the bin thoroughly, as these are the primary sources of smells. You should also wipe down the interior housing where dust accumulates. If the hose smells, you can rinse it with a mix of water and white vinegar. Ensuring the brush roll is free of trapped hair and debris also prevents the "burnt" smell caused by motor strain.
How to empty a bagless vacuum without getting dust everywhere?
To minimize the "dust cloud," place the bin deep inside a large trash bag before hitting the release button. Tie the bag loosely around the top of the bin while you shake it. Wait a few seconds for the dust to settle before pulling the bin out. Doing this outdoors or in a garage is also a smart way to keep the indoor air clean during maintenance.
What can I put in my bagless vacuum to make it smell good?
You can place a few drops of essential oil on a small piece of cotton and put it inside the vacuum bin. Alternatively, vacuuming up a small amount of cinnamon or specialized scented vacuum beads can help. However, never put liquids or oils directly onto the filters or into the motor area, as this can cause clogs or attract more dirt, potentially damaging the machine.
