How to Unclog A Vacuum Cleaner Hose?

21 minutes read

To unclog a vacuum cleaner hose, you can follow these steps:

  1. First, make sure your vacuum cleaner is turned off and unplugged from the power source to ensure safety.
  2. Inspect the hose visually to identify the clog. Look for any visible blockages, such as large debris or tangled hair.
  3. If you can easily access both ends of the hose, detach it from the vacuum cleaner and stretch it out to inspect and remove the clog manually.
  4. For smaller clogs, try using a straightened wire hanger or a long, flexible rod to push through the hose and loosen the blockage. Be careful not to damage the hose while doing this.
  5. If the clog is harder to reach or persists, you can use a plumber's snake. Insert it into the hose and twist it around to dislodge the obstruction. Again, be cautious not to cause any damage.
  6. Another effective method is to use a combination of vinegar and hot water. Mix equal parts of vinegar and hot water and pour the mixture down the clogged hose. Let it sit for a while to break down the clog, and then rinse it out thoroughly with plain water.
  7. Once the clog is removed, reattach the hose to the vacuum cleaner securely.
  8. Finally, plug in your vacuum cleaner and test it to ensure the hose is clear and the suction is working properly.


It's important to note that preventive measures can be taken to minimize the frequency of clogged vacuum cleaner hoses. Regularly empty the dustbin or bag, remove large debris before vacuuming, and avoid picking up materials that may cause clogging, like liquids or sharp objects.

Best Vacuum Cleaners of 2024

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Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum with Large Dust Cup Capacity, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Crevice Tool, Blue

Rating is 5 out of 5

Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum with Large Dust Cup Capacity, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Crevice Tool, Blue

  • POWERFUL SUCTION: Deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors with multi-surface powerful suction.
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BISSELL 2998 MultiClean Allergen Lift-Off Pet Vacuum with HEPA Filter Sealed System, Lift-Off Portable Pod, LED Headlights, Specialized Pet Tools, Easy Empty,Blue/ Black

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BISSELL 2998 MultiClean Allergen Lift-Off Pet Vacuum with HEPA Filter Sealed System, Lift-Off Portable Pod, LED Headlights, Specialized Pet Tools, Easy Empty,Blue/ Black

  • Every Purchase Saves Pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets
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Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet, Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, HEPA Media Filtration, For Carpet and Hard Floor, UH72625, Red

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Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet, Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, HEPA Media Filtration, For Carpet and Hard Floor, UH72625, Red

  • Our Best Cleaning Bagless Upright*
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4
BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Reach Full-Size Vacuum Cleaner, with Quick Release Wand, & Swivel Steering, 3198A, Color May Vary

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BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Reach Full-Size Vacuum Cleaner, with Quick Release Wand, & Swivel Steering, 3198A, Color May Vary

  • EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.Specific uses:pet hair on stairs, upholstery
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DEVOAC N300 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 6 in 1 Ultra-Lightweight Stick Vacuum, 2200mAh Battery Up to 40mins Runtime, Powerful Handheld Vacuum for Hard Floor Carpet Pet Hair Home

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DEVOAC N300 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 6 in 1 Ultra-Lightweight Stick Vacuum, 2200mAh Battery Up to 40mins Runtime, Powerful Handheld Vacuum for Hard Floor Carpet Pet Hair Home

  • 💎One Sentence Summary of Devoac N300 : A Low-cost cordless vacuum cleaner that has surprising performance. Fits most families for daily household cleaning.
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  • 【Surprising Powerful Suction with 2 Modes】- This cordless stick vacuum cleaner features a powerful 175W motor, which provides impressive powerful suction. It can be switched into two modes: Max Mode (20KPa for 25mins), and Standard Mode (15KPa for 40mins). So it can easily capture pet hair, dust, debris, crumbs, pet food, and other messes with ease. Suitable for tasks on the hardwood floor, low-pile carpet, stairs, curtains, furniture, car, etc.
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Shark HV301 Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning with Swivel Steering, Gray/Orange

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Shark HV301 Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning with Swivel Steering, Gray/Orange

  • Never loses suction or power.Specific uses:Stairs,Furnitures.Amperage : 4.2 amps
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7
Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum Cleaner, with Quick Release Wand, Swivel Steering and Automatic Cord Rewind, 3197A (Color may vary),Black

Rating is 4.4 out of 5

Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum Cleaner, with Quick Release Wand, Swivel Steering and Automatic Cord Rewind, 3197A (Color may vary),Black

  • Every Purchase Saves Pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets
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8
Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter, Anti-Allergen Technology, Swivel Steering, Ideal for Carpet, Stairs, & Bare Floors, with Wide Upholstery & Crevice Tools, Lavender

Rating is 4.3 out of 5

Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter, Anti-Allergen Technology, Swivel Steering, Ideal for Carpet, Stairs, & Bare Floors, with Wide Upholstery & Crevice Tools, Lavender

  • LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: lift away the detachable pod and easily clean above-floor areas like stairs, furniture, and more.
  • ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.
  • POWERFUL & LIGHTWEIGHT : Powerful suction to deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors with a lightweight design for effortless portability.
  • BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Feature allows you to instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floor cleaning.
  • SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver your vacuum in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more.
  • PERFECT FOR PETS: Powerful pet hair pickup attachments like the wide upholstery tool make cleaning pet hair a breeze.
  • CREVICE TOOL: Access corners, baseboards, tight spaces, and ceilings for versatile cleaning.
  • 5-year limited warranty.
  • Made in USA or Imported.


What is the role of a vacuum cleaner's filtration system in preventing clogs?

The role of a vacuum cleaner's filtration system in preventing clogs is to trap dust, debris, and other particles before they reach the motor and other internal components of the vacuum. By capturing these particles, the filter prevents them from clogging the motor or blocking the airflow, which can lead to reduced suction power and possible damage to the machine. The filtration system typically consists of multiple stages, such as a pre-filter, HEPA filter, or a dust bag, which work together to separate the fine particles from the air and prevent them from entering the vacuum's critical components. Regular maintenance and cleaning of the filtration system are important to ensure its effectiveness in preventing clogs and maintaining optimal vacuum performance.


What is the first step to unclog a vacuum cleaner hose?

The first step to unclog a vacuum cleaner hose is to identify the location of the clog. This can be done by inspecting the hose visually or feeling for any obstructions.


How to use a plumber's snake to remove a stubborn clog from a vacuum cleaner hose?

If you have a stubborn clog in your vacuum cleaner hose and want to use a plumber's snake to remove it, here are the steps you can follow:

  1. Ensure Safety: Before starting, make sure your vacuum cleaner is unplugged from the power source. This ensures your safety while working on the machine.
  2. Gather Necessary Tools: You'll need a plumber's snake or drain cleaning auger, which is a long, flexible cable with a corkscrew-like tip. You can find these at most hardware stores or purchase online. Additionally, you might want to use gloves to protect your hands during this process.
  3. Locate the Clog: Determine the point where the clog is located in your vacuum cleaner hose. Usually, a clog in a vacuum hose is found closer to the nozzle end rather than the machine end, but it can be anywhere along the length.
  4. Insert the Plumber's Snake: Insert the snake into the hose from the end opposite to the clog. Slowly feed the snake into the hose while gently twisting it to navigate through any bends or obstructions. Push the snake further until you reach the clogged area.
  5. Break Up the Clog: Once you reach the clog, apply gentle pressure and rotate the snake clockwise and counterclockwise. This twisting motion will help entangle and break apart the clog, allowing it to loosen and be easily removed.
  6. Pull Out the Clog: Slowly withdraw the snake from the hose, helping to bring the clog with it. Be cautious not to yank suddenly, as it may damage the hose or cause the clog to get stuck.
  7. Check the Hose: After removing the clog, visually inspect the hose to ensure it is clear from any remaining debris. If there is still some obstruction, repeat the process or use alternative methods like compressed air or a wire hanger, if appropriate for your vacuum cleaner.
  8. Reconnect and Test: Once you are confident that the clog has been removed, reassemble any parts of your vacuum cleaner that you may have disassembled and ensure everything is properly connected. Plug the vacuum cleaner back in and test if suction has been restored.


Remember, if the clog persists or you're unsure about performing these steps, it is always a good idea to consult a professional or contact the vacuum cleaner manufacturer for assistance.


What is the best way to clean a vacuum cleaner hose after unclogging it?

To clean a vacuum cleaner hose after unclogging it, here is the best way to go about it:

  1. Disconnect the vacuum cleaner from the power source to ensure safety.
  2. Remove the hose from both ends. If it is detachable, this is usually a simple process. If not, consult the manufacturer’s instructions to determine how to remove the hose.
  3. Take the hose outside or to an area where it is easy to clean and shake it gently to remove any loose particles or debris.
  4. Use a long, flexible brush or a pipe cleaner to scrub the inside of the hose. Start from one end and work your way to the other end, ensuring that you reach every corner. This will help dislodge any remaining dirt or dust.
  5. Alternatively, you can attach the hose to the exhaust port of the vacuum cleaner and let the suction draw air through the hose. Doing this might help remove loose particles or debris.
  6. To deep clean the hose, fill a sink or bucket with warm water and mild dish soap. Submerge the hose completely and let it soak for at least 30 minutes. This will help loosen any stubborn debris.
  7. After soaking, use the brush or pipe cleaner again to scrub the inside of the hose, paying extra attention to any remaining clogs. Make sure to be gentle yet thorough.
  8. Rinse the hose thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue. You can run water through the hose or use a sprayer, if available.
  9. If possible, hang the hose vertically to air dry completely. This will ensure that any remaining moisture evaporates and prevents the growth of mold or mildew.
  10. Once the hose is completely dry, reattach it to the vacuum cleaner, making sure it is securely fastened.


By following these steps, you can effectively clean your vacuum cleaner hose after unclogging it, allowing it to function optimally in the future.


How to avoid damaging the motor while unclogging a vacuum cleaner hose?

To avoid damaging the motor while unclogging a vacuum cleaner hose, follow these steps:

  1. Turn off and unplug the vacuum cleaner: Safety is extremely important, so make sure the vacuum cleaner is completely powered off and unplugged from the electrical outlet before attempting any repairs.
  2. Locate the clog: Identify where the hose is clogged by inspecting the suction power or using a flashlight to look through the hose for any blockages.
  3. Remove the hose: Detach the hose from both ends. Check the user manual or consult the manufacturer's instructions if you are uncertain how to remove the hose.
  4. Clear the visible debris: Shake or tap the hose gently to remove any loose dirt or debris. If there's a visible clog, try to carefully remove it using your fingers, a long object like a broomstick, or a flexible brush.
  5. Use a vacuum cleaner attachment: If the blockage persists, attach a small nozzle attachment or a crevice tool to the vacuum cleaner hose to help dislodge the clog.
  6. Reverse suction: Another method is to use another vacuum cleaner with a hose to create reverse suction. Connect the second vacuum cleaner's hose to the clogged vacuum cleaner's hose and create suction from the other end to pull the clog out.
  7. Insert a plumbing snake or flexible rod: If the clog is stubborn, you can gently insert a plumbing snake or a flexible rod into the hose to push or break it down. Be cautious not to use excessive force to avoid scratching or damaging the interior of the hose.
  8. Reassemble and test: Once the clog has been removed, carefully reattach the hose to its original position, ensuring it is tightly secured. Plug in the vacuum cleaner, turn it on, and check if the suction power has returned to normal.


Remember, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with unclogging the vacuum cleaner hose yourself, it is always advisable to contact a professional or the manufacturer's customer service for assistance.


What is a common cause of vacuum cleaner hose clogs?

A common cause of vacuum cleaner hose clogs is the accumulation of debris such as dirt, dust, hair, or larger objects like small toys or coins. Additionally, the hose can also get clogged if it comes in contact with larger items that are not meant to be vacuumed, like pieces of fabric or long strings.

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