Clean your house with a clean vacuum and this DIY carpet freshener: Video
Vacuuming sucks—but not if your vacuum is clogged. In that case, instead of collecting dirt, dust, pet dander and whatever else has found its way onto your floor, it leaves some of that debris behind—and in some cases, may even spread allergens around your house.
Just as you clean your home regularly, you should also routinely clean the tools you use to do it. You wouldn’t clean your dishes with a dirty sponge or mop your floors with dirty water. The same goes for your vacuum.
Plus, a clean vacuum helps you maintain a cleaner home.
Watch this video for 5 steps to maintain your vacuum.
How to clean a vacuum
This may sound obvious, but don’t let the canister or bag fill up. If you notice buildup on your canister, give it a wash to remove any internal dirt that could cause clogs. Let it air dry completely before putting it back together and vacuuming again.
Check your vacuum’s filters—they may also need to be cleaned or replaced.
Don’t forget the brush roll! Hair and other debris can wrap around the brush head, making it harder to collect dirt from your floor. Usually, a pair of scissors or a knife can cut through whatever is wound around it.
Check for any blockages in the hose.
Finally, wipe down the exterior—it’s on the front lines and can get covered in dirt and dust.
Before you begin vacuuming, it’s best to open the windows and do any dusting first.
DIY Carpet cleaner
Rugs and carpets can trap dirt and other grime. Regular vacuuming can help stop debris and odors accumulating, but sometimes the fabric needs a refresh.
Watch this video to see how to make a DIY carpet cleaner.Carpet cleaners and deodorizers are available at the store, but you can also make your own with baking soda and essential oils. Check to make sure the oils don’t have any dyes or colors that could stain your carpet.
Combine 1 cup of baking soda with about 10-15 drops of your preferred essential oils. If you need an extra boost, add a couple tablespoons of borax.
Mix everything together and break up any large clumps.
Start with a patch test on a small section of the rug.
To deodorize your rugs or carpet:
- Vacuum the area before applying the mixture.
- Lightly sprinkle the mixture all over the rug or carpet. A sifter is an easy way to evenly coat the surface.
- Let it sit for at least 20 minutes. Avoid letting people or pets walk on the surface during this time.
- Vacuum it up. Moving the vacuum slowly across the carpet gives the brush enough time to sweep through the fibers and the suction enough time to pick up all the baking soda.
While baking soda doesn’t harm your vacuum, it can cause buildup, so make sure you’re regularly cleaning your vacuum.