How To Use A Vacuum Cleaner?
2024-08-28
Vacuum cleaners have become a staple in modern homes because of the convenience they offer, thanks to their user-friendly features. The newest models have lightweight designs, making them easy to manoeuvre around furniture and get into tight spaces. Intuitive controls ensure that even first-time vacuum cleaner users can operate them easily. These advancements have played a big part in making vacuum cleaners popular for domestic use. In fact, according to Statista, in UK alone the revenue from vacuum cleaners is expected to reach £0.9bn in 2024, with a steady growth rate of 4.60% projected annually until 2029.
Vacuuming your home regularly is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy environment, with the practice being recommended at least once or twice a week. However, knowing how to use your vacuum cleaner correctly not only improves cleaning efficiency, but also prolongs the lifespan of your appliance, thereby ensuring that it remains a reliable tool in your cleaning routine for years to come.
How To Use A Vacuum Cleaner The Right Way
Step 1 - Check Your Vacuum Cleaner
Before you start vacuuming, check your vacuum cleaner to ensure it’s ready for use. Begin by inspecting the dust bag or dustbin to make sure it’s not full and that the dust container is not damaged, as this can reduce suction power. Next, take a look at the filters, especially if they haven’t been cleaned recently, as clogged filters can hinder performance. Finally, check the hose and attachments for any blockages that could obstruct airflow. This sort of quick inspection not only ensures efficient cleaning, but also helps keep your vacuum in good working order.
Step 2 - Adjust the Settings and Attachments
When using your vacuum cleaner, it’s vital to select attachments and adjust the settings to suit the surface you’re cleaning. For example, switch to the carpet mode for rugs, use the hardwood setting for bare floors, and choose the upholstery mode for furniture. Attach the right tool, like a soft brush for delicate surfaces or a crevice tool to reach tight corners and edges.
If you have a robotic vacuum cleaner, there are some other pre-clean checks you should perform to ensure you have a truly hands-free housecleaning experience. Set up your robot vacuum cleaner to make sure it’s fully charged and that its cleaning path is free from obstacles. Don’t forget to set it to the correct cleaning mode before starting, so it knows whether it’s tackling carpets or hard floors.
Step 3 - Vacuum the Area Slowly
Take your time and move slowly to ensure a thorough clean. This allows your vacuum cleaner to pick up more dirt and debris, especially from carpets. Instead of pushing your appliance back and forth, work methodically by pushing it forward in straight, structured rows, and use overlapping motions when cleaning subsequent rows. This approach helps to cover the entire area more effectively. Pay extra attention to high-traffic spots, where dirt tends to get embedded deep into the fibres. By vacuuming slowly, you’ll also reduce the chances of missing dirt-ridden spots.
Step 4 - Pay Attention to Corners
When vacuuming, focus on corners and edges where dust and debris tend to accumulate. Swap out your main attachment for tools specifically designed for these tricky spots. Use an edge tool or a crevice tool to get into those tight spaces, and manually go over the edges of rooms and furniture to ensure a thorough clean.
If you’re using a smart vacuum, and you hesitate between choosing rounded or squared-shaped devices, note that ECOVACS a squared robot vacuum called the DEEBOT X2 OMNI which is more suited to cleaning corners compared to the usual round designs. This shape also helps the device get out of narrow spaces more easily, cover a larger area with fewer passes, and fit a larger dust bin so that users can empty the smart vacuum less frequently.
Step 5 - Empty the Dust Container After Cleaning
Empty the dust bag or bin after each cleaning session as a full container can negatively impact suction power, making your vacuum less effective. All you have to do is detach the dustbin and clear out the dirt and debris collected during the cleaning process. It’s also worth noting that advanced robot vacuum models have an auto-empty feature. This handy function automatically empties the device’s dustbin into a larger container in a docking station, reducing the need for frequent manual emptying, which is especially useful for people who are prone to allergies.
How to Use Different Types of Vacuum Cleaners?
There are different types of vacuum cleaners, each suited to different cleaning tasks. The most common ones include upright vacuums that are ideal for large carpeted areas, canister vacuums that are known for their versatility, handheld vacuums that are perfect for quick spot cleaning, and robotic vacuums that handle daily maintenance with minimal manual intervention. They each need to be handled differently, depending on their size and purpose.
Upright vacuums
Start by adjusting the height setting based on your carpet or floor type. Push the vacuum forward to engage the brush roll, which lifts dirt and debris, and then pull it back to collect everything into the dustbin. Choose the appropriate attachment depending on whether you’re cleaning a hardwood floor or carpets.
Canister vacuums
This type of vacuum cleaner has a hose and wand attachment so you can clean different types of surfaces and reach tight spots and out-of-reach areas. It’s especially useful for stairs, under furniture, and narrow spaces. You can also switch out attachments based on your requirements — a brush for carpets or a bare floor tool for hardwood.
Handheld vacuums
This compact appliance is easy to use with one hand, making it a great option for quick clean-ups or spot cleaning. It works well for small messes, car interiors, and furniture. They also come with attachments for specific needs, like a crevice tool for tight spaces and brushes for upholstered surfaces.
Robot vacuum cleaners
These devices are typically programmed using the onboard controls or, in the case of more advanced models, though a companion mobile app. You can schedule cleaning sessions, set no-go zones, and even mop your floors with certain models of robot vacuum cleaners. They’re ideal for daily maintenance, especially on hardwood floors or low-pile carpets, and can handle minor spills.
How Often to Vacuum Different Areas of Your Home?
When it comes to vacuuming different areas of your home, high-traffic spots like doorways, living rooms, and hallways should be vacuumed at least twice a week to minimise the buildup of dirt and dust. Low-traffic areas like guest rooms or home offices can usually get by with a weekly vacuum. If you have pets or kids, vacuum areas they frequent more often, as they tend to track in dirt and shed hair. Don’t forget to spot-clean any messes on the go so you can keep things tidy.
There may be certain times when there are more people in your home – such as when you host guests for dinner or have family and friends staying over. In these instances, you might need to vacuum more often. For households with allergy-prone inhabitants, a vacuum with a HEPA filter is a smart choice, as the filter traps more allergens and keeps your air cleaner.
FAQ
Should I vacuum first or last when I clean my home?
It’s best to save vacuuming for last as debris can fall onto the floor when you dust and wipe surfaces like countertops, shelves, and tables. By vacuuming at the end, you ensure that you pick up all the dirt that’s been displaced, leaving your floors truly clean.
How should I prepare my vacuum cleaner?
First, empty the dustbin or bag if needed so your vacuum cleaner can pick up dirt efficiently. Next, inspect the filter and clean it if it looks dirty. Remove any tangled hair or debris from the brush roll so it runs smoothly. Finally, check that the vacuum is set to the right height or mode for your flooring type.
How should I prepare my home before vacuuming?
Start by picking up items like toys or shoes and clearing cords or loose items from the floor so that the area you’re going to clean is free of obstructions. Move small furniture or rugs, so you can reach all the corners and under hard-to-reach spots. Give surfaces a quick dusting so that any debris that falls onto the floor can be vacuumed later.
What are the common mistakes to avoid when using a vacuum cleaner?
When using a vacuum cleaner, avoid these common mistakes. Don’t let the dustbin or bag get too full, as it reduces suction power. Avoid vacuuming over hard objects as this can damage the appliance. Don’t forget to clean or replace the filter regularly. Remember not to rush when cleaning as slower passes pick up more dirt. Finally, make sure you’re using the right setting for your floor tauype.
Where should I store my vacuum cleaner?
The best place to store your vacuum cleaner is a dry, cool place spot away from direct sunlight and heat. A closet, pantry, or laundry room works well, especially if it’s near areas you vacuum most. If you have a vacuum with attachments, store them together so you don’t lose pieces.
