Households typically accumulate significantly more dust in autumn as people spend more time indoors, but tackling this won't be effective if the vacuum cleaner isn't operating correctly. Vacuum cleaners draw up dirt and debris, which gathers in an internal container that needs emptying, but the filter traps finer dust particles and can become blocked without occasional cleaning.
Why filters clog and what it means
A blocked filter weakens suction power and causes the motor to overheat, making it difficult to pick up dust no matter how often the vacuum is used. Leslie Murray from vacuum manufacturer My Henry said it "only takes a few minutes" to clean a filter, saving time in the long run.
Murray explained: "More loose dust escaping, louder motor sounds, or weaker suction can all indicate that your filter needs to be cleaned. They're often caused by dirt buildups blocking airflow. Thoroughly cleaning the filters should restore your vacuum's performance to its original state."
Monthly maintenance for better performance
October brings lower temperatures, prompting households to keep windows shut and switch on heating, which can cause dust to accumulate very rapidly. This makes vacuum filters more prone to clogging during this season, so it's worth inspecting yours. Vacuum filters typically only require cleaning once a month to maintain performance, and it's crucial to do this as accumulated dust can eventually cause the filter to overheat, damaging it and reducing the vacuum's lifespan.
How to clean a vacuum filter
Start by unplugging the vacuum and ensuring it's completely switched off before removing the filter. After carefully taking it out, gently tap it over a bin or use a soft cloth to dislodge loose dust. The filter resembles a small cover positioned near the container on a vacuum; on cordless models it's usually inside the container, while on older models it's typically on top of or beneath it.
Running the filter under lukewarm water can help eliminate finer dust particles, but check the vacuum's instructions or search online as certain filters aren't suitable for washing. If the filter is water-safe, leave it in a secure location for at least 24 hours after washing to guarantee it's thoroughly dry before reinstalling it. Cleaning a filter is straightforward and should take no more than 10 minutes, yet it's one of the most efficient methods to ensure your vacuum performs optimally and makes household cleaning considerably easier.
