The vacuum brush roller may not seem like such a big deal, but it’s actually the part that cleans the carpet when you vacuum. When the brush roller gets bound up with stray hairs and thread, it traps the little brushes so they can’t do the job they’re there to do. If you notice that your vacuum isn’t picking up as well as it used to, a dirty brush roller may be to blame. Here’s how to thoroughly clean the vacuum brush roller. It’s easy!

How To Clean The Vacuum Brush Roller

To really clean the brush roller, you need total access to it. Here’s what to do:

Start by removing the bottom plate from the vacuum. On some models this plate snaps into place, on others there may be screws to remove.
The vacuum brush roller should easily remove from the bottom of the vacuum. Disengage the belt that connects to one end of the roller.
Now you need to remove all the hair, threads and other debris that are binding up the brush roller. There are three possible tools you can use for this job–scissors, a razor blade or a seam ripper from your sewing box. The seam ripper is really effective, because it’s small enough to get around the little brushes and cut the hair and threads.
Use the scissors or seam ripper to cut the hairs and threads that wrap around the vacuum brush roller.
Pull out all the cut hair and threads from the brushes. As you pull some away, there will be more cuts to make. Keep going until all the hair is removed.
Now thoroughly clean the vacuum brush roller with warm water and dishwashing soap. Let it air dry.
After the brush roller is completely dry, reinstall it in the vacuum.