Vacuuming is simple enough — plug it in, turn it on and go. However, a little extra know-how can help you avoid faux pas that can harm not only your efficiency but also your machine over time.
If your floors still feel dusty after a cleaning session or your vacuum doesn’t seem to be working as well as it used to, you might be making one (or more) of these common vacuuming mistakes.
1. Using the Wrong Attachment (or Not Using Them at All)
Those extra attachments that come with your vacuum serve specific purposes. A soft brush attachment is perfect for dusting hard surfaces like shelves and baseboards, but it’s not meant for upholstery or fabric. In these instances, you’re better off using a motorized or upholstery brush. For bare floors and low loop carpets, use straight suction, not a rotating brush, which can scatter dirt or damage delicate rugs.
2. Not Emptying the Bin or Bag Enough
A full bin or bag reduces your vacuum’s efficiency and can even lead to overheating. Make it a habit to empty bagless models after each use. For bagged vacuums, replace bags when the current one is about three-quarters full.
3. Neglecting the Filter
Vacuum filters trap fine dust and allergens, but they need regular cleaning or replacement, depending on whether they’re washable or not. A dirty filter reduces airflow and suction and can even blow dust back into the air.
If the filter shows signs of wear, or if it’s very dirty or torn, it’s time to replace it. Check your manual for specifics on how often to clean or replace it, but in general, most filters need attention every six months, depending on usage.
4. Using the Wrong Height or Suction Settings
Most vacuums let you adjust the height and suction power to more efficiently clean different surfaces — so be sure to use them. A vacuum set too low won’t maneuver easily on thick carpet and can even damage the carpet fibers. Conversely, if you use a setting that’s too high on hardwood, it might miss dirt and debris.
5. Only Vacuuming in One Direction
If you only vacuum in a single direction, especially on carpets, you could leave embedded dirt behind. For a deeper clean, go over these areas in multiple directions to lift and loosen dirt that’s trapped deep in carpet fibers.
6. Vacuuming Floors Before Cleaning Higher Surfaces
Start high, finish low. Dust and debris fall as you clean counters, furniture, shelving, ceiling fans and any other higher surfaces that require dusting. If you vacuum your floors first, chances are you’ll end up vacuuming twice.
7. Relying Solely on a Robot Vacuum
Robot vacuums are handy for touch-ups between deep cleans, but they’re not a full replacement for a traditional vacuum. They can’t tackle spots like stairs and may miss corners or edges. If you want to extend the length of time in between more thorough cleanings, we recommend sending a robot vac out several times a week to collect dust and pet hair, lint and surface dirt on your floors before it has a chance to build up or get ground in.
8. Vacuuming Up Larger Debris
There’s a distinction between your average household vacuum and a shop vac, and the former shouldn’t be used as the latter to pick up hard objects like coins, paper clips and small toys. These items can get lodged in hoses, and even if they eventually make their way into the bag or bin, can cause damage to the motor. Always remember to scan the floor for larger objects before you start vacuuming.
9. Ignoring a Clogged Brush Roll
Your brush roll needs regular attention — especially if you have pets or family members with long hair — since hair and string can wrap around the brush, restricting its movement and putting extra strain on the motor. Most vacuums have a brush roll that you can easily remove for more thorough cleaning. Simply turn off the appliance, unplug it, and unwind or snip away any tangles.
10. Being Too Rough With the Cord
Yanking the power cord from the outlet or letting it whip back into the vacuum can damage both the plug and the retracting mechanism. Always gently remove the plug and hold the cord in your hand as you press to wind it back onto the reel.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women’s Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
