How to clean a vacuum hose

Having a vacuum cleaner is necessary to maintain a clean and inviting home. It is useful in cleaning tight spaces and it does its job in cleaning your home effectively. However, most homeowners think that cleaning a vacuum merely consists of emptying its container. A vacuum cleaner must be cleaned properly every 12 to 18 months to maximize its qualities and increase its lifetime. If left ignored, your vacuum cleaner will not perform as effectively and will be a bigger hassle during the cleaning process. This article will focus on telling you how to clean a vacuum hose as this is a part of the vacuum that constantly gets dirty. There are even situations when you could have a clogged vacuum hose that could affect your cleaning.

Importance of a vacuum cleaner hose

The hose is a very important part of a vacuum cleaner. It can affect the overall performance of the vacuum cleaner as it helps the user reach tight spaces. Having a dirty vacuum cleaner hose could lead to several problems that could make the cleaning process much more difficult.

How to clean a vacuum cleaner hose

The following are the steps that should be followed when cleaning a vacuum cleaner:

1. The first step to cleaning a vacuum cleaner hose is to remove the hose from the vacuum. Make sure your vacuum cleaner is turned off and that not connected to a power outlet. Removing the hose will usually depend on the brand and model you have, but usually, a vacuum hose can be removed by twisting it out or by pressing a button. Do not be forceful when removing the vacuum cleaner hose as this could lead to further damage.
2. After you have detached the hose from the vacuum, you can then begin to unclog and remove clumps from your vacuum hose.
3. Once your vacuum hose has been unclogged, wash it out so that any remaining dirt can be removed. When washing a vacuum hose, you can submerge the hose in a sink with around 4 inches of water and two squirts of dish soap or mild detergent.
4. You can also clean the outer part of the vacuum hose with a damp cloth to remove any excess dirt.
5. If you want to completely sanitize your vacuum hose, you can use baking soda and distilled white vinegar as these are ingredients that are great for removing bacteria and germs. Simply mix half a cup of baking soda and two cups of vinegar with water, and then pour the mixture into the hose.
6. In case your vacuum hose is extremely dirty, you may use a hose cleaning brush to remove any stubborn dirt that cannot be reached easily. Using this is also helpful if you have a vacuum cleaner with a long hose.
7. After cleaning and scrubbing your vacuum cleaner hose, rinse it out by placing it directly under the faucet.
8. Before connecting the hose back to the vacuum, allow it to dry first. You can hang the hose up in the yard to let the excess water drain out.

How to unclog a vacuum hose

If you have a clogged vacuum hose, then it would immediately be obvious as your vacuum cleaner will lose its suction and you will have trouble picking up dirt and debris. Your vacuum cleaner will also blow out dust or make a strange noise if it is clogged. Along with this, a bad smell coming from your vacuum hose is an evident sign there is food stuck in your vacuum hose which could be a reason for a clog.

These problems do not mean you have to replace your vacuum cleaner, instead, it is a reminder for you to regularly clean it. The following are the steps to be followed to unclog a vacuum hose:

1. Lay your hose flat on the floor or a table.
2. Use something thin and long to push out any clumps of dirt or debris that may be stuck in your vacuum cleaner hose. You may use the handle of a broom or mop to wedge out anything in the middle that cannot be easily reached.

Be careful as pushing a long stick into the vacuum hose can create a hole or break if you push it too hard. Some vacuums are made to be lightweight so this means the material of the vacuum hose may be thinner.

What usually clogs a vacuum cleaner hose?

Clogging of a vacuum cleaner hose is normal and can occur if you often use your vacuum cleaner. These clogs are usually made up of pet hair, excessive dust, or pads of paper. Food may also be stuck in a hose which could lead to bad odors coming from your vacuum cleaner. To prevent any future clogs from happening, make sure you thoroughly inspect your area before vacuuming. Clear the floors from any large debris or items such as coins, small toys, pads of paper, etc. to reduce the chances of your vacuum hose being clogged.

How to clean vacuum tubes

Because most vacuum tubes are made of metal, they may begin to oxidize over time. When maintaining vacuum tubes, you will only need isopropyl alcohol that is around 96 – 99% pure. Simply clean the vacuum tube with the alcohol and some wooden cotton swabs. It is important that you do not use rubbing alcohol as this contains ingredients that would not react well with the vacuum tube.

Your vacuum should be cleaned every 12 – 18 months, or once per month if you use the vacuum cleaner often. It is best to inspect your vacuum cleaner hose after cleaning to check if there are any clogs, and to ensure that it is ready for your next cleaning session. We hope that this article was able to inform you on how to clean a vacuum hose as cleaning your vacuum cleaner hose is necessary so that you may clean your home more efficiently.