You are here:

Cleaning Up/Vacuum odor

Advertisement

Expert: - 3/27/2010


Question
How do I get rid of the smell of dog hair when I next use my vacuum? My vacuum is bagless and although I empty it between uses the smell seems to permeate all over the house every time I use it.

Answer
Hi Ann;
I have the same type of vacuum, and a brown lab that sheds like nuts! So, I do know what you mean, the odor is terrible or at least it was. I found a vacuum deodorizer at a vacuum sales store that is amazing. If you use granules, it doesn't clog the little tiny holes in your filter. However, if you use carpet deodorizer, it can clog everything. Another deodorizer that I use is plain old baking soda. It is one of the best and one of the cheapest. However, after you empty your bagless plastic container, you have to take out the filter and 'bang' it on something to get the baking soda to come out of the little holes. If you try this with carpet deodorizer, for some reason it will stick in the holes and won't come out, that is why I only do this with baking soda.
By the way, when I wash the plastic container, I use vinegar and water. It kills the germs and deodorizes at the same time and it is safe for plastic, it won't cause a chemical reaction and break down the plastic.
Hope this helps,
Jan Hayner

Cleaning Up

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Jan Hayner

Expertise

If you have questions regarding home organizing, house cleaning shortcuts, office organizing, files, record keeping, organizing your children, teaching your kids how to help you clean and making it fun, I will give you the advice of a Professional Organizer, mom of four and grandma of 8. Working Smarter-Not Harder is a phrase I live by; taking the stress out of life so you have time for the fun things is my goal!

Experience

I have been a Professional Organizer for 9 years, the mom of 4 and grandma of 8,I do work for clients in the home and the work place, and am considered an expert in my field of Organization.

Organizations
Faithful Organizers, passed member of NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers), WIM (Women in Management),

Publications
I have had work published all over the internet and various webzines and Newsletters. I am also a columnist on Mature Resources.org. and an Expert on all experts.com under Self Improvement/SelfHelp/Organizing Your Home and Workspace.

Education/Credentials
I have taken various /classes on organizing on the interent, been taught by the best (other collegues in the field), and when I need to learn something, I find an expert in the field and learn from them. I am a research fanatic and enjoy learning everything that I can on a subject.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.