If your bagless vacuum cleaner is giving off bad smells when you're cleaning your floors, this article will help you to diagnose and fix the problem. There are many reasons why your vacuum may be producing odours, including dirt and grime build-up or something it has picked up along the way. Here, we will show you how to inspect your vacuum cleaner to find out what is causing the issue.
How to fix a smelly bagless vacuum cleaner step by step
There are a few areas on your vacuum cleaner where dirt can get trapped and smells can linger. These include the filter, canister, hose and brush roll. For advice and guidance on how to check these to locate where the smell is coming from and get rid of it, take a look at the video or follow our detailed guide below.
Safety First!
Before you begin this repair, make sure that your vacuum is switched off and fully disconnected from the mains.
Check 1: Filters
The filters in your vacuum cleaner are designed to perform two functions. The first is to stop harmful dust and particles from getting into your machine and causing problems with the internal workings of it, such as with the motor. The second is to stop bad smells from re-circulating back into the room while you're using your vacuum cleaner.
Here, we are demonstrating how to access and clean the filters on a Dyson DC33 which has two filters, a pre-motor and a post-motor filter. This is largely the same for all bagless vacuum cleaner models but be sure to check your user manual for guidance on removing and cleaning your filters before you begin. If you don't have access to your user manual, you can search and view it on our online user manual finder.
Most manufacturers recommend cleaning vacuum filters at least every six months, but Dyson recommends every three months.
Step 1: Remove the pre-motor filter
Let's start with the pre-motor filter. To remove this, you'll need to remove the housing from the vacuum cleaner. On this model, this is located on the side but it can also be on the top or back of your appliance. Again check your user manual for this.
Inside the casing, you will find the pre-motor filter. It comes in two parts, the filter sponge and the filter case.
Step 2: Clean the filter
Again for this step, you will need to check your user manual to make sure your filter can be cleaned with water. If so, rinse the filter sponge under cold water, then squeeze it to release any excess water.
Then, wash the filter case under cold water and tap it to remove any trapped dirt or debris. Leave these to dry for at least 24 hours before refitting the filter.
If, while washing your filter, you find that it is looking a little worn or is damaged, then it will need to be replaced. You can purchase replacement filters for your vacuum make and model on our website.
Step 3: Remove the post-motor filter
Next, you will need to give the post-motor filter a clean. In most bagless vacuum cleaners the post-motor filter is usually housed near to the canister or underneath it but be sure to check your user manual to locate it. In this model, you can access the filter by pressing the canister release button and removing it.
Then, press on the catch that is holding the filter in place, lift the lid and take the filter out.
Step 4: Clean the filter
This filter is an all in one unit and can be cleaned as it is. Again, check your user manual to make sure these can be cleaned with water and if so, run it under a cold tap. Give it a tap to get rid of any stuck-on dirt and debris and leave it to dry for at least 24 hours. If you find it has become worn or damaged, you can again purchase a replacement on our website.
Check 2: Canister
The next thing to check is the canister. As this is the part of the vacuum where the dirt is stored, it's a very likely place for smells to build up. Before you perform any cleaning on your canister, it's a good idea to remove any electrical or mechanical parts from it first.
Step 1: Separate the canister
Check your user manual to see how to remove the canister on your particular model. For this DC33, all you need to do is press the button at the top then press the bin-release assembly and you can gently pull it away.
Step 2: Clean the canister
If your user manual states that the canister can be cleaned with water, you can go ahead and give it a wipe with warm soapy water or you can just use a cloth with disinfectant. If your canister is quite old or is looking scratched or damaged, it's a good idea to replace it. You can find replacement vacuum canisters on our website.
Step 3: Remove dust from cyclone unit
Dirt and debris can also become trapped in the cyclone unit too. To remove this, you can gently tap the cyclone to remove any trapped dirt. Then, use a brush to clean holes and crevices to remove as much debris as possible. You can then reattach the cyclone.
Check 3: Hose and attachments
The next place to check is the hose and attachments. As these are the first parts of your vacuum to come into contact with dirt, they're very likely places for smells to build up. Most bagless vacuum cleaners are designed to have the hose removed for cleaning and replacement. Check your user manual for steps on how to detach them from your model but here is a guide using the Dyson DC33.
Step 1: Detach the hose
Press the catch that connects the hose to the vacuum and gently pull it away. Then, press the catch to remove it from the wand too. Remove any other attachments from the vacuum that are in need of a clean.
Step 2: Clean the hose and attachments
Check your user manual to find out how is best to clean the hose and attachments. If you are able to use water to clean them, you can soak them in warm soapy water. If any of the parts contain metal, it's best just to wipe these down with disinfectant instead to prevent them from rusting. Make sure all parts are completely dry before replacing. If, when cleaning the hose, you notice it is torn or damaged, it will need to be replaced. You can find replacement hoses for your model on the eSpares website.
Check 4: Brushroll
The final part to check and clean is the brushroll. The brushroll has a tendency to gather up bits of hair and carpet fibres, which can get wrapped around it and in turn, trap additional amounts of dust and dirt.
Step 1: Remove the brushroll
Remove the cover from your brushroll by undoing the screws that hold it in place (if your model has this) and then lift the cover off and remove the brushroll if it comes away.
Step 2: Clean the brushroll
Remove any dust, debris or string and hair that is wrapped around it. To help you, you can use a small pair of scissors or seam rippers. Then, give it a wipe with some disinfectant. Again, if you find that the brushroll is worn or damaged, you can find replacement brushrolls on our website.
Once you have checked and cleaned all of these parts, your vacuum should be fresh and ready to go so you can clean your floors without leaving behind any unpleasant smells. If you're looking to get rid of any bad odours that may be lingering around, you can try our vacuum air freshener which will give your home a fresh scent while cleaning it too.
You can also purchase any spare or replacement parts for your particular vacuum cleaner make and model on the eSpares website. Just make sure you have your model number to hand so you can get the right spares to fit your machine.
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