Vacuuming is such a simple housekeeping chore, but much of the time, like computers, a vacuum isn't used to its full potential. Plus, most people only "hit the highlights" (read: run the vacuum down the middle of the hallway and walkways) and don't really do the down and dirty vacuuming. This is the kind of vacuuming that moves furniture, uses the onboard tools, and fills that bag up pronto.
Oh, and I'm guilty of not always giving my vacuuming 100% (like moving the coffee table). Yet, I'll use the crevice tool and vacuum the edges of carpet and flooring every time. You know what your personal weekness is. Regardless, it's always important to go over the basics because we can often forget what those basics are. With these guidelines to keep in mind, you might find that your carpets look better, the house is cleaner, and you can go longer between carpet shampooing.
VACUUM DO'S
DO vacuum regularly. Once a week is the minimum, but twice a week would be best.
DO move furniture. This is my vacuuming Achille's heel. Yes, you do need to move the coffe tables. In fact, it's best if you remove everything off the floor (except heavy furniture) so your vacuuming is really thorough.
DO vacuum under beds. This is one of the biggest sources of dust, so don't forget to get under there.
DO vacuum both ways. It's critical to vacuum up and down and side to side. This makes certain that you pull up the pile, and that you get all the dirt up. It's possible to miss almost half the dirt if you only vacuum back and forth, for example.
DO "edge". Yes, the crevice tool is indispensable when it comes to getting in where the dreaded dust bunny lives. Most vacuums can't truly vacuum right up to the edge, making it important to get the hose of the vacuum and running it along where the floors and walls meet. And while you're at it, get the baseboards, too! When it comes to vacuuming, the single biggest thing overlooked is the edges of floors. Don't overlook yours.
DO use the tools. Those attachments aren't there just to look good. Pull them out and use the upholstery brush and the crevice tool. It's what they're there for.
DO turn the beater off on looped or Oriental carpets. Check with your carpet manufacturer first for care. If you have Berber style carpets or Oriental rugs, beating them with the beater bar could cause them to look fuzzy or break the looks. Always check with your carpet store or manufacturer if you're not sure.
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VACUUMING DONT'S
DON'T rush. Yes, housecleaning is not something you always want to prolong, but remember that, unlike cleaning the kitchen counters, with every pass of the vacuum, you are getting up more and more dirt. You should give heavy areas at least five -- and up to 10 -- vacuuming passes.
DON'T let the bag get too full. A bag that is overfilled loses suction and effectiveness, so check the bag often. Then, don't wait until the bag is stuffed to change it. You should change the bag when it becomes half to 2/3 full.
DON'T just vacuum the floors. Those attachments are great for vacuuming lampshades, blinds, air vents, ceiling fans, and use the brush for upholstered furniture. Make it a part of your weekly vacuuming to turn the cushions over on upholstered furniture, vacuum that side, and vacuum the crevices.
DON'T vacuum wood floors with the beater. Wood floors should be on a different setting than carpets. If your vacuum doesn't have a solid floor setting that turns off the beater bar, then you might damage wood floors by vacuuming them.
DON'T neglect your vacuum. Vacuums need periodic maintenance, so make sure you take your vacuum in for a check up about once a year. Belts can wear out and other wear and tear issues can cause you to think it's not performing right, when it just needs a tune up. Most vacuum stores have maintenance services.
With these ideas in mind, you'll get more from your vacuuming efforts and from your vacuum, too.
Vacuum Notes
Not all vacuums are created equal. Consumer Reports rated the Eureka Smart Vac Ultra 4870 a Consumer Reports Best Buy at $135 for strong cleaning power. Which goes to show, you don't always have to pay the most to get the best. I bought a fancy "ultra" model and a cheap one, and you know what? My cheap Sears vacuum works better than the one I paid several hundred dollars for. Always test out vacuums and do your research. Ask your friends which vacuum they like best and work best for them. Buying off the shelf might just be a disappointment.
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Kathryn Weber is the publisher of the Everydayclean.com Calender -- the calendar that helps you end the power struggle with your house. Keeping a clean home is about knowing what to clean when. Virtually everything that needs to be cleaned is on this calendar in a year-round cleaning schedule that helps you keep your house clean easier and faster. Click here for more information.
