Vacuum cleaners can clog by things getting stuck in the hose or from an over-full canister, but most clogs are easily solved by just regularly emptying your vacuum. Hair and string, though, tend to wrap around the vacuum brush and can restrict its movement, causing a slow death until it stops spinning altogether, rendering your vacuum useless. At first glance, it might look complicated to get in there and untangle the mess, but depending on the vacuum, it’s probably easier than you think.
How to remove a vacuum brush
The best way to clean a vacuum brush is to remove it. Unfortunately, there isn’t a universal vacuum, so removing the brush depends on the vacuum brand. Some require removing the bottom grate surrounding the brush; others have a convenient lever to pull or a button that pops open a compartment on the side to remove the brush for cleaning. Most modern vacuum cleaners have this capability.
How to clean a tangled vacuum cleaner
Once you remove the brush, cleaning is rather simple, as TikTok user @vaneamaro91 highlights. Take a good pair of scissors and cut along the length of the brush, minding the bristles so that you don’t accidentally cut off pieces of it. Once the hair and tangled particles are loosened, use your hands to pull apart the pieces and clear the brush of debris. (Can can wear gloves if you’re grossed out.)
G/O Media may get a commission
For deeper cleaning, you can grab a cleaning brush, detergent, and some white vinegar. After removing as much hair and dirt as possible, submerge the brush in warm water mixed with detergent, and use a cleaning brush to get in the small areas to break up any stubborn dirt. Once you’re done, wipe it down with diluted white vinegar, which will help disinfect the brush and remove dirt still stuck on the bristles. Wipe it dry with a microfiber cloth, and make sure the brush is completely dry before reattaching. Congratulations, your vacuum will spin like new.
