The UK consumer specialist media 'Which?' explained, "If your vacuum cleaner is making strange noises and suction power has decreased, it may be clogged because it sucked in something that should not have been vacuumed."
If Your Vacuum Cleaner Loses Suction... Suspect Foreign Substances
When something breaks or spills, it is common to reach for the vacuum cleaner first. However, experts have warned that there are certain substances that should never be vacuumed. This is because specific foreign substances can damage your vacuum cleaner, potentially leading to expensive replacement costs.
The specific foreign substances warned by experts include ▲sharp objects such as broken glass ▲ash and sawdust ▲soil and plant debris ▲liquids ▲small items ▲sticky substances, among others.
If you vacuum broken glass shards, small fragments can get stuck in the hose and motor, increasing the likelihood of device damage.
According to the UK Daily Mail, the UK consumer specialist media outlet 'Which?' explained, "If your vacuum cleaner is making strange noises and its suction power has decreased, it may be clogged because it sucked in something that should not have been vacuumed." The outlet added, "Reduced suction and clogged filters are among the most common complaints from vacuum cleaner users."
Experts Warn Against Using Vacuum Cleaners on Glass, Ash, Liquids, and More
The specific foreign substances warned by experts include: sharp objects such as broken glass, ash and sawdust, soil and plant debris, liquids, small items, and sticky substances, among others.
Glass shards should be cleaned up using a broom, dustpan, and a damp cloth instead of a vacuum cleaner. Pixabay
원본보기 아이콘When a glass is dropped, it is tempting to use a vacuum cleaner to clean the surface near the broken area to check for small, sharp fragments. However, vacuuming up broken glass shards can cause small fragments to get stuck in the hose and motor, greatly increasing the risk of damaging the device. When sharp objects like glass break, you should first sweep up the glass, and then use a damp kitchen towel or wet wipe to remove any remaining small fragments.
In homes with fireplaces, people sometimes use a vacuum cleaner to clean up leftover ash. However, vacuuming ash can clog the filter and reduce suction power. The same applies to sawdust or sand generated during construction work. Even sweeping up this debris can be problematic, as fine particles may become airborne. Experts recommend lightly dampening the area before cleaning with a broom and dustpan.
Coins, Paper Clips, and Pins Can Damage the Hose
Small pieces of debris may not be an issue, but vacuuming up coins, paper clips, or pins can cause problems for your vacuum cleaner. These items can get stuck in the brush or damage the hose or motor, potentially puncturing them. For these cases as well, experts say it is best to use a broom and dustpan.
Plant debris can also easily clog the device, especially in humid conditions. Experts recommend using a broom when cleaning up soil or plant debris. It may seem obvious, but vacuuming liquids can be dangerous and may cause electrical failure. Vacuuming moist substances can also clog and dirty the hose or filter, making a mess. Therefore, when cleaning up liquids, you should use a cloth or mop to wipe them up.
Sticky Substances Should Be Cleaned with a Cloth Dipped in Soapy Water
Extra caution is required when dealing with sticky substances such as syrup, glitter, or adhesives. These materials can accumulate inside the vacuum cleaner and may melt when heated. Experts warn that vacuuming these substances can ultimately break the motor, requiring you to purchase a new vacuum cleaner. The only way to handle these types of substances is to use a damp cloth soaked in soapy water.
