Beyond The Floor: 7 Unexpected Things You Can Clean With A Vacuum

When you think of a vacuum, what comes to mind? Probably a whirring noise as it glides across the carpet, sucking up dust and debris with its powerful suction. While vacuums are undoubtedly the kings of floor cleaning, their true potential is often overlooked. There's more to this appliance than just picking up crumbs under the dining table. Believe it or not, your vacuum can help with so much more in your home.

In fact, the humble vacuum cleaner has hidden talents that might surprise you. With the right attachments and a bit of creativity, it can become a multipurpose cleaning powerhouse. In this article, we'll explore seven unexpected ways you can use your vacuum to keep your home cleaner and healthier. You might just find that your trusty vacuum is the ultimate multitasker you never knew you had.

Also Read: Robot Vacuum Cleaner Vs Traditional Vacuum Cleaner: Which Is Better

Unexpected Things You Can Clean With A Vacuum; Photo Credit: Pexels

1. Ceiling Fans

Who knew your ceiling fan could collect so much dust? After a few months of spinning, those blades can become magnets for dirt, and it's easy to forget about them, until the dust starts raining down when you switch it on. Cleaning ceiling fans can be a nightmare, especially if you're trying to avoid making a mess all over the floor. But here's where your vacuum can save the day.

Using the vacuum's hose attachment, you can gently vacuum the blades while they're stationary. It's ideal because it prevents dust from falling onto your floor, and the suction helps remove the stubborn build-up without you having to wipe it all down manually. Some vacuums even come with a specific dusting brush attachment, which is perfect for delicate blades. You can easily tackle high-up areas without the hassle of climbing ladders, making your ceiling fans look as good as new in no time.

If your fan blades are especially dusty, try using the vacuum with a slightly higher suction setting for more power. Just be sure to check the blade material first to avoid any damage. With this simple trick, you'll have sparkling ceiling fans without the mess.

2. Keyboard And Electronics

Spilling coffee on your laptop or phone might be the obvious danger when it comes to electronics, but dust and crumbs? They're the silent killers. A little keyboard can trap all sorts of debris, and before you know it, your space bar stops working or your screen is speckled with dirt. But don't worry, your vacuum can help!

With a nozzle attachment and the lowest suction setting, your vacuum is perfect for sucking up the dust, crumbs and even those tiny bits of food that seem to find their way into every crevice. Gently run the nozzle along the keyboard and around the edges of your phone or tablet. For a deeper clean, you can also use a soft brush attachment to loosen any stubborn debris before vacuuming it away. It's a quick and easy fix that'll keep your gadgets looking pristine without risking damage from clothes or wipes.

Remember, a dirty keyboard isn't just unsightly; it can also harbour germs, and if your electronics are clogged with dust, it could lead to overheating issues. So giving your electronics a regular vacuum clean is not just about aesthetics, it's a smart way to maintain the functionality and longevity of your devices.

Unexpected Things You Can Clean With A Vacuum; Photo Credit: Pexels

3. Baseboards And Moulding

Baseboards can easily accumulate dust, pet hair, and even cobwebs, but they often get overlooked in your regular cleaning routine. The idea of bending over and dusting along those low-down corners is enough to make anyone dread the task. But your vacuum can help save your back and get those baseboards looking spotless.

Using the crevice tool on your vacuum, you can easily reach along the length of your baseboards and moulding, sucking up any dust and debris that has settled there. The crevice tool is designed to get into narrow spaces, so you don't have to bend down or stretch awkwardly to clean these areas. If you have high baseboards, a hose extension can give you extra reach, making this a super easy task that's often forgotten in regular cleaning routines.

This method is particularly helpful if you've recently painted or if you have dark baseboards where dust is more visible. And if you have intricate moulding or crown moulding, a vacuum with a soft brush attachment can gently sweep away dust without disturbing the paint or finish. Your baseboards and moulding will thank you for the extra love!

4. Indoor Plants (And The Soil Around Them)

If you're a plant lover, you know the struggle: soil spills and drooping leaves can leave your plants looking a bit less than ideal. But did you know your vacuum can help take care of the mess? It's perfect for cleaning up small soil spills from indoor plants, without making a bigger mess.

Take the hose attachment and gently vacuum the soil around your plants. Just make sure to use the lowest suction setting to avoid sucking up too much of the soil or damaging your plants. For larger spills, you can also use the crevice tool to scoop up excess dirt before vacuuming it away. And if your plants are a little dusty, you can use the brush attachment to gently lift the dust from their leaves, giving them a quick refresh.

Regular cleaning of your indoor plants' surroundings isn't just about aesthetics. Dust and dirt can affect your plants' health by blocking sunlight from their leaves, and soil build-up can invite pests. Plus, this vacuum trick helps prevent the spread of soil to other parts of your home. Vacuuming the area around your plants will also save you time and frustration when you do need to water or rearrange them.

Unexpected Things You Can Clean With A Vacuum; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Air Purifiers And Filters

Air purifiers do a great job of cleaning the air in your home, but what happens when the filter becomes clogged with dust and other particles? Instead of replacing it, you can give it a second life by vacuuming it.

Turn off the air purifier, remove the filter, and then use the vacuum with the brush attachment to gently suck off the dust and dirt. Be careful to vacuum in the direction of the airflow to avoid damaging the filter. Depending on the type of filter you have, you might also need to wash it occasionally, but regular vacuuming will prolong its lifespan and improve the efficiency of your air purifier.

This technique works not only for air purifiers but also for other types of filters around the home, such as those in extractor fans, dehumidifiers, and even your dryer vents. Cleaning these filters can help prevent the build-up of allergens, ensuring that your home stays cleaner and your appliances work more efficiently.

6. Shower And Bath Grout

Cleaning grout between bathroom tiles can feel like a never-ending struggle. Scrubbing with a brush can take time and often doesn't yield the best results. Instead, why not try vacuuming it?

Using your vacuum's crevice tool, you can suck up dirt and grime that's trapped along grout lines. The suction power works wonders on loose debris, and the nozzle can get into those tight corners where a cloth or sponge often misses. It's a quick way to lift the dirt before you tackle deeper cleaning with a grout brush and cleaner. Plus, it'll save you from breathing in dust while you scrub.

For a truly deep clean, follow up with a homemade grout cleaner and scrub, but vacuuming beforehand can cut your work in half. This vacuum trick can also help remove mould or mildew spores that may have started to form in the cracks, making your bathroom a lot fresher.

Unexpected Things You Can Clean With A Vacuum; Photo Credit: Pexels

7. Mattress Lumps And Bumps

We all know that mattresses need to be cleaned regularly, but there's one thing people often forget: the lumps and bumps that can form in a mattress over time. These aren't just uncomfortable to sleep on, they can also be a breeding ground for dust mites, mould, and bacteria.

If you notice lumps on your mattress, try vacuuming the surface first. The vacuum's suction can help pull out trapped air, dust, and other particles hiding in the layers of your mattress. After a vacuum, the mattress will feel fresher and more comfortable to sleep on. Make sure to vacuum both sides of the mattress every few months to keep it in good shape, and always rotate it regularly to avoid uneven wear.

Vacuuming your mattress is also a smart way to extend its lifespan, as it removes build-up that can contribute to sagging or discomfort over time. You'll also reduce the presence of dust mites and other allergens, making your bed a cleaner and more restful place.

Products Related To This Article

1. EUREKA FORBES Quick Clean DX Dry Vacuum Cleaner With Reusable Dust Bag

2. BLACK+DECKER WDC215WA-QW Hand-Held Vacuum Cleaner

3. AGARO 33423 Upright Hand-held Vacuum Cleaner With Reusable Dust Bag

4. Inalsa Ozoy Mop Plus Hand-held Vacuum Cleaner With 2-In-1 Mopping and Vacuum

5. Inalsa Micro WD10 Wet And Dry Vacuum Cleaner With Reusable Dust Bag

6. iBELL 2012WB Plus Vacuum Cleaner

7. Prestige Cleanhome Typhoon05 Wet And Dry Vacuum Cleaner With Powerful Suction

8. Eureka Forbes bold Wet And Dry Vacuum Cleaner

It's easy to think of your vacuum as just a floor-cleaning device, but with a bit of creativity, you can unlock its full potential. Whether you're tackling pet hair on the couch, clearing dust from your air vents, or freshening up your mattress, the vacuum cleaner is more versatile than most people realise.

So, the next time you pull out your vacuum, don't just limit it to the floors. With the right attachments and a bit of know-how, you'll be cleaning areas you never thought possible. It's time to give your vacuum the credit it deserves, and maybe even start treating it like the true hero it is. After all, a clean home is a happy home. 

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