In this particular video, Rachel demonstrates 10 things you SHOULD be vacuuming – but probably are NOT!
“Starring Rachel, her beloved Miele S7 upright vacuum cleaner and adorable cat, Chanel, learn about the surprising things you SHOULD be vacuuming to keep your home clean and allergen free – without much effort! Also protect your furnishings and other household items by cleaning them correctly without causing damage. Learn what some of your vacuum’s attachments should be used for as well as why a Swiffer” can be deadly to your floors!”
10) your Vacuum itself! (it gets dusty too, you know)
NOTE the asterisks (*)! You’ll see that the tips in the video are prefaced by an “equipment check”… In order to correctly and safely vacuum the majority of carpets, above floor surfaces, electronics and other delicate surfaces you must have a high-filtration vacuum with VARIABLE SUCTION, and use it on a low setting! You also must attach the correct tool such as dusting brush, crevice or upholstery tool. Cleaning is achieved by an appropriate balance of suction PLUS agitation. Think about your washing machine… water is used to suspend dirt particles. It’s the agitation that really loosens debris and boosts the effectiveness. Similarly, in your vacuum, air is used to suspend dirt. The air simply moving (i.e. suction) helps loosen quite a bit of dust, but agitation provided by a bristled attachment or spinning brushroller loosens more! You also know that some clothes belong in the delicate cycle only…apply similar logic to certain household surfaces.
Why on earth would you want to go through the “trouble” of vacuuming all these things? Dust is sneaky, destructive and prolific – it is everywhere! Dust-clogged electronics can prematurely short out. Ducts get filled with dust and spew into your family’ breathing air. Uncleaned mattresses and pet beds can become a breeding ground for mites and other unsavory critters. A bad, leaky, over-powered vacuum can do more harm than good to your home than you’d imagine. Torn up rugs, scratched wood, dingy-dusty upholstery and polluted air will wear down your home’s value as well as your quality of life.