Holiday Cleanup: How to Avoid Common Vacuum Pitfalls
The post-Christmas cleanup can be treacherous territory for your vacuum cleaner. Here's how to avoid turning your holiday cleanup into an expensive repair bill or a completely broken vacuum.
The Pine Needle Problem
Don't attack a pile of pine needles head-on with your vacuum – this is a fast track to clogs and potential motor damage. Instead, sweep up the bulk of fallen needles with a broom first. For the remaining stragglers, use your vacuum's hose attachment rather than the main brush roll. Go slow; this gives you better control and prevents needles from clumping up in the brushroll.
Ornament Shards and Hooks: A Hidden Menace
Before vacuuming anywhere near the Christmas tree, get down at eye level with the floor and scan for ornament hooks and broken ornament pieces. These tiny metal hooks can get caught in your brushroll or worse – work their way into the hose and cause a clog. Pick these up by hand, and consider using a flashlight to spot any glinting pieces you might have missed.
The Wrapping Paper Trap
Wrapping paper might seem harmless, but large pieces can your hose in no time. Never vacuum large pieces of wrapping paper. Instead, gather large pieces by hand and watch out for those long ribbons and bows that can tangle in your vacuum's brushroll.
Glitter: The Gift That Keeps on Giving
While glitter won't typically damage your vacuum, a large amount can clog filters quickly. If you're tackling glittery areas, check and clean your filters more frequently than usual, particularly if you are using a bagless vacuum. Consider using a damp paper towel to collect the bulk of glitter before vacuuming – it'll stick to the moisture and save your vacuum's filters.
Tinsel Tangles
Tinsel is perhaps the most notorious vacuum killer during holiday cleanup. These shiny strands can wind so tightly around brush rolls that they can melt plastic, break belts, and work its way into bearings Always pick up tinsel by hand, even if it means getting down on your hands and knees. If you spot any wrapped around your brushroll, turn off the vacuum immediately and carefully cut it away.
The Artificial Snow Situation
Artificial snow can be particularly problematic because it's so fine and can easily overwhelm your vacuum's filtration system. Just like glitter, this can be especially bad for bagless vacuums. For areas with artificial snow, use a damp mop first to collect the bulk of it. If you must vacuum it, do so in small sections and empty the canister or bag frequently.
Smart Strategies for Success
Always work in small sections when cleaning holiday debris.
Keep and eye on your canister or bag. Holiday debris can more quickly fill them up.
Keep scissors handy for cutting away any tangles you discover.
If the debris is especially bad, consider cleaning up the bulk first with a small shop vacuum. They are better equipped for this kind of mess than a household vacuum.
When to Stop and Call for Help
If you hear any unusual sounds, feel a loss of suction, or smell burning, stop immediately. These are signs that something is wrong, and continuing to vacuum could cause further damage. If you've already encountered a problem, don't try to force it – contact us at House of Vacuums if you are local or your local vacuum cleaner shop for assistance.
Prevention is always cheaper than repair when it comes to vacuum cleaners. By being mindful of these potential pitfalls, you can keep your vacuum running smoothly through the holiday season and beyond. Remember, an extra few minutes of precautionary cleanup by hand can save you hours of frustration and potentially hundreds in repair costs.