10 Simple Maintenance Hacks To Keep Your Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner Working Like New

A wet and dry vacuum cleaner is nothing short of a superhero in homes that deal with more than just the usual dust bunnies. From spilt tea to post-Diwali chaos, it handles the mess without complaint. But just like any superhero, it needs its own version of a recharge, regular maintenance.

Too often, these hardworking machines are forgotten until something smells funny or they suddenly stop mid-clean. And let's admit it, replacing one can cost a small fortune (₹10,000 or more for a decent model!). So why not spend a little time learning how to care for the one you already have?

If you want to know how to maintain your wet and dry vacuum cleaner, the good news is, you don't need to be a technician or spend hours watching YouTube tutorials. These 10 easy hacks can be done with basic home tools, common sense, and a bit of patience. Read on to make your wet and dry vacuum cleaner last longer, perform better, and save you the stress of emergency repairs.

Keep Your Wet And Dry Vacuum Cleaner Performing Like New With These 10 Simple And Effective Maintenance Hacks That You Can Do At Home; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Empty the Tank After Every Use

One of the simplest things that makes the biggest difference? Emptying the tank. Whether you've sucked up water from a bathroom spill or fine dust from ceiling fans, letting debris sit inside the container can lead to unpleasant smells, mould, and rusting, especially in a humid climate.

Picture this: it's monsoon, your living room rug is soggy from wet shoes, and you're using your vacuum daily. If the water isn't emptied, bacteria start to build. It becomes a breeding ground, literally.

Make it a habit to empty the tank after each session. Rinse it thoroughly, wipe it down, and leave it open to air dry. It takes just five minutes, but those five minutes can add years to your machine's life.

2. Clean or Replace the Filters Regularly

Filters are like the lungs of your vacuum. When clogged with dust, hair, or even bits of cereal (we've all been there), the suction suffers. Worse, it can blow the debris right back into the room, undoing all your cleaning.

Many vacuums come with HEPA or foam filters, and most are washable. Every couple of weeks, pop them out and give them a gentle wash with lukewarm water. Let them dry completely before putting them back, moist filters can encourage mould growth and that familiar musty smell.

If your filter is the non-washable kind or starting to tear, replace it. Filters are easily available online for ₹300–₹700, and that's a small price for better air quality and cleaner floors.

Also Read: Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Vs Corded: Which Works Best for Your Lifestyle?

3. Untangle Hair From the Brushes

Anyone with long hair, or pets, knows this struggle. The brushes on vacuum heads often resemble a mini jungle after a few uses. Tangled strands not only slow down the rotating brush but can also damage the motor.

Take 10 minutes every week to check for hair, threads, or even strings. Use a pair of scissors to carefully snip them off. If your vacuum came with a brush-cleaning tool, lucky you, it makes the job easier.

Regular untangling means better contact with the floor, which equals more effective cleaning. And no more loud wheezing sounds from the brush head.

4. Check For Blockages In The Hose

The hose often ends up being the most ignored part. Yet, it's where most of the action happens. Socks, toy parts, bits of packaging, plenty of things get lodged in it. And once it's blocked, suction drops like a stone.

A simple way to check? Remove the hose and drop a marble or coin through one end. If it rolls out the other side without trouble, you're good. If not, time to investigate.

Use a long stick or a flexible wire to gently dislodge whatever's inside. Avoid poking hard with metal objects, they might tear the hose.

Regular hose-checks save you the frustration of wondering why your machine isn't working even though everything “looks” fine.

Here are 10 Easy Maintenance Hacks Designed To Keep Your Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner In Perfect Working Order; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Keep the Wheels and Casters Clean

It might not seem like a big deal, but dirty wheels can drag grime all over your freshly cleaned floor. Worse, they can jam up, making the vacuum feel like it's auditioning for a tug-of-war contest.

Wipe the wheels with a damp cloth after every few uses. If you notice gunk building up in the wheel joints, use a toothbrush or an old paintbrush to clean it out. Add a tiny drop of oil if the movement feels stiff.

This minor tweak makes the vacuum glide smoothly, no more dragging it across the room like a suitcase with a broken handle.

6. Store It Properly Between Uses

Where your vacuum sleeps matters. Leaving it out on the balcony or in a dusty corner can expose it to moisture, pests, and dirt. Over time, this can corrode parts or clog internal mechanisms.

Pick a cool, dry spot inside the house, maybe behind a door, inside a utility cupboard, or on a laundry shelf. Wind up the cord neatly to avoid tangling. If you've got kids running around, make sure it's out of reach to avoid accidental damage (or curious button-pushing).

A little storage discipline keeps your vacuum cleaner, well, cleaner, and working like new.

7. Wipe Down the Exterior Weekly

Let's be honest: no one wants to touch a machine that's sticky with old ghee spills or smeared with dust. Keeping the outer body clean isn't just about aesthetics; it prevents grime from sneaking inside.

Use a microfibre cloth dampened with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals, they can fade paint or damage plastic parts. Pay extra attention to the handle and buttons, especially if you've been using it in the kitchen.

This weekly wipe-down makes the vacuum feel brand new and keeps germs at bay, particularly important if you have little ones crawling around.

Maintain your wet and dry vacuum cleaner with these 10 tips; Photo Credit: Pexels

8. Don't Overfill the Tank

If you've ever pushed your luck with a dustbin, you'll know the mess that follows. Same goes for vacuum tanks. Overfilling puts strain on the motor, reduces suction, and makes the machine smell like a dust storm.

Most models have a max fill line, respect it. For wet cleaning, be extra cautious. Overfilling with water can cause electrical issues or short-circuiting, especially in models not designed to handle large volumes.

Empty it when it's three-quarters full. It's a small price to pay for a smoother, longer-lasting clean.

9. Use the Right Attachment for the Right Job

Yes, attachments can feel like an extra chore, but they exist for a reason. Using the wrong one is like eating soup with a fork, messy and inefficient.

Got crumbs on the sofa? Use the upholstery tool. Dust in window channels? That crevice nozzle is gold. Wet spills on tiles? Switch to the squeegee brush.

Using the right tool not only makes cleaning quicker but also protects your machine from damage. For example, using a carpet brush on wet floors can damage the bristles or trap moisture.

If your attachments are collecting dust in the corner, time to give them their moment in the spotlight.

10. Service It Once a Year

Even with the best DIY care, your vacuum deserves a professional check-up. Think of it as an annual health check. It's not just about fixing issues, it's about preventing them.

Service centres can catch things you won't notice, like worn-out belts, loose connections, or a struggling motor. Most brands recommend an annual service, and some even offer doorstep maintenance for ₹500–₹1000.

Set a reminder. Schedule it after major events like Holi or weddings, when your house has seen extra footfall and mess.

Just like your car or water purifier, this one routine keeps your cleaner fighting fit.

Products Related To This Article

1. BLACK+DECKER BDWD08-B1 Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner with Cannister Body

2. KARCHER Wd 3 V Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner

3. Eureka Forbes Ultimo Wet & Dry 1400 Watts

4. AGARO Ace Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner for Home

5. Dreame H11 Core Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner

A wet and dry vacuum cleaner is more than just a gadget; it's a loyal companion in a house full of life, food, festivals, and the occasional chaos. And like all companions, it needs a bit of love in return.

With these 10 easy hacks, maintenance, you can buy a vacuum cleaner that doesn't have to feel like another chore. A few minutes here, a little effort there, and you'll have a machine that runs quietly, cleans brilliantly, and sticks around for years. 

So, the next time you finish cleaning, resist the urge to shove it back into a corner and forget about it. Instead, give it a little attention. Your floors and your wallet will thank you. 

Disclaimer: The images used in this article are for illustration purposes only. They may not be an exact representation of the products, categories, and brands listed in this article.