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Bissell vacuum stinking? discover the hidden culprits and odor-eliminating hacks

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • A clogged hose can prevent dirt and debris from reaching the dustbin, causing them to accumulate inside the hose and create an odor.
  • Use a pet hair brush or a vacuum cleaner with a pet hair attachment to remove pet hair and dander from the vacuum cleaner.

If your Bissell vacuum has developed an unpleasant odor, it can be a frustrating and embarrassing problem. The stench can permeate your home, making it an unpleasant experience to use your vacuum cleaner. But don’t worry, there are several reasons why your Bissell vacuum might stink, and most of them can be easily fixed. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the potential causes of your vacuum’s odor and provide step-by-step solutions to eliminate the stench once and for all.

Causes of Vacuum Odor

1. Dirty Filter: The most common cause of vacuum odor is a dirty filter. When the filter becomes clogged with dirt and debris, it can trap bacteria and mold, which release unpleasant odors.

2. Full Dustbin: A full dustbin can also contribute to vacuum odor. As dust and debris accumulate in the bin, they can start to decompose and release a musty smell.

3. Clogged Hose: A clogged hose can prevent dirt and debris from reaching the dustbin, causing them to accumulate inside the hose and create an odor.

4. Pet Hair and Dander: Pet hair and dander can accumulate in the vacuum cleaner and create a musty or animal-like odor.

5. Spilled Liquids: If you accidentally spill liquids on your vacuum cleaner, they can seep into the machine and create a foul odor.

6. Mold and Mildew: Mold and mildew can grow in damp environments, such as inside the vacuum cleaner if it’s not properly cleaned and dried.

7. Electrical Issues: In rare cases, electrical issues can cause the vacuum cleaner to overheat and release a burning smell.

Solutions for Vacuum Odor

1. Clean or Replace the Filter: Regularly clean the filter with warm water and a mild detergent. If the filter is damaged or old, replace it with a new one.

2. Empty the Dustbin: Empty the dustbin after every use and wash it with warm water and a mild detergent once a month.

3. Unclog the Hose: Disconnect the hose from the vacuum cleaner and use a long, thin object to clear any clogs.

4. Remove Pet Hair and Dander: Use a pet hair brush or a vacuum cleaner with a pet hair attachment to remove pet hair and dander from the vacuum cleaner.

5. Clean Spills Immediately: If you spill liquids on the vacuum cleaner, clean it up immediately with a damp cloth.

6. Prevent Mold and Mildew: Regularly clean the vacuum cleaner with a disinfectant solution and allow it to dry thoroughly before storing it.

7. Contact Bissell Customer Support: If you’ve tried all the above solutions and your vacuum cleaner still stinks, contact Bissell customer support for further assistance.

Tips for Preventing Vacuum Odor

1. Clean the filter and dustbin regularly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and replacing the filter and dustbin.

2. Empty the dustbin after every use: Don’t let dust and debris accumulate in the dustbin.

3. Unclog the hose periodically: Check the hose for clogs and remove them as needed.

4. Clean spills immediately: If you spill liquids on the vacuum cleaner, clean it up immediately with a damp cloth.

5. Store the vacuum cleaner in a dry place: Don’t store the vacuum cleaner in a damp or humid environment.

6. Use a disinfectant solution: Regularly clean the vacuum cleaner with a disinfectant solution to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.

Information You Need to Know

Q: Why does my Bissell vacuum smell like burning rubber?
A: This is usually caused by an electrical issue. Stop using the vacuum cleaner immediately and contact Bissell customer support.

Q: Why does my Bissell vacuum smell like mold?
A: Mold and mildew can grow in damp environments. Regularly clean the vacuum cleaner with a disinfectant solution and allow it to dry thoroughly before storing it.

Q: Why does my Bissell vacuum smell like urine?
A: Pet urine can accumulate in the vacuum cleaner if it’s not cleaned regularly. Use a pet hair brush or a vacuum cleaner with a pet hair attachment to remove pet hair and dander from the vacuum cleaner.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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