How to Recycle a Vacuum Cleaner

Co-authored by Ashley Matuska

Last Updated: March 31, 2022 References

Almost everyone has a vacuum cleaner, but it's rare that we think about recycling it once we need a new one. When your vacuum cleaner breaks it can be tempting to throw it in the trash and buy the newest model without thinking twice. However, not only is this potentially harmful to the environment, but it can also be harmful to your wallet. By repairing, reusing or even selling your old vacuum cleaner, you can be sure it will find a new and appreciated home.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Recycling Your Broken Vacuum Cleaner

1
Attempt to repair your vacuum cleaner. Your appliance may still be functional if you perform maintenance and you don't need any specialized knowledge to do the basics.
- Open your vacuum cleaner and clean the insides thoroughly. You can use a microfiber cloth and an all purpose cleaner.^{[1]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Ashley Matuska
  Professional Cleaner
  Expert Interview. 15 April 2019.} Often regular dust and dirt can impair your vacuum cleaners functionality.
- If you have a bagged vacuum cleaner, replace the dust bag inside it.^{[2]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Ashley Matuska
  Professional Cleaner
  Expert Interview. 15 April 2019.} Sometimes the problem can be as simple as the bag being full.
- Check the nozzle and any attachments to make sure there are no obstructions. You may have accidentally vacuumed a large object that has blocked the inner tubing.
- If none of these tips solve your problem, it may be worth consulting a vacuum cleaner specialist who could repair your appliance for you.^{[3]
  X
  Expert Source
  
  Ashley Matuska
  Professional Cleaner
  Expert Interview. 15 April 2019.}
2
Find out if your vacuum cleaner is recyclable. Although it is increasingly rare for a vacuum cleaner to be non-recyclable, it is still good practice to check before bringing it to your local recycling center.
- If your vacuum cleaner comes with a plug, batteries, a charging cable or has a picture of a crossed out bin on the interior, your vacuum cleaner is recyclable.^{[4]
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3
Go to the recycling center. Around 90% of a vacuum cleaner is recyclable so if it is impossible to repair, much of it will go towards making outdoor furniture, car dashboards and plastic plant pots.^{[5]
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- Don't worry if you don't know which bin to put your vacuum cleaner in. The staff on-site will be able to direct you to wherever you need to go.
4
Consult a vacuum cleaner company for recycling options. If you opt to purchase a new vacuum cleaner, the company may pick up your old vacuum cleaner for recycling when they’re delivering your newer model.^{[6]
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Research source} This means you won’t even need to leave the house to recycle your old vacuum cleaner.
5
Create environmentally friendly art fixtures. If you’re a creative type there are some fun and entertaining uses for a broken down vacuum cleaner.
- You can hollow out the interior of your vacuum cleaner and use it as a quirky container for general storage.
- If you have kids, you can encourage them to decorate the vacuum cleaner with paints and stickers.
- If possible, you can also dismantle it for parts for other projects or even use it as a quirky plant pot.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Recycling Your Functional Vacuum Cleaner

1
Donate it to a charity shop. Many charity organisations are swamped by clothing donations, so a donation of a functional appliance would go a long way. If your vacuum cleaner is functional, it will be greatly appreciated in any charity shop. Places like the Salvation Army and Goodwill are huge organizations, and they will frequently pick-up your vacuum right at your home, so you don’t even need to go anywhere to make a donation.
2
Sell your vacuum cleaner online. If you think that your vacuum cleaner could still have a life in someone else's home, the internet provides a convenient avenue for making a profit off unwanted goods.
- Take several pictures of your vacuum cleaner from different angles to give a potential buyer a strong idea of the appliance. Make sure you take the picture in a well lit area and use a tripod if you have one available. A good photograph can really help sell your item.^{[7]
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- Research what price others are selling your vacuum cleaner for. You don't want to make it too expensive so that no one will buy it, or so inexpensive that you're harming whatever profit you may make.
- eBay and Gumtree are great websites for selling for profit. If you want to donate your old vacuum cleaner you can also try Freecycle, Freegle or Preloved.
3
Find local swapping events. Sometimes local fairs in your community can host swapping events wherein you trade items of roughly equivalent value with each other. Not only can you get rid of an appliance you no longer need, but you can get something useful in return.
4
Donate your vacuum cleaner to family and friends. A small gift can go a long way for someone who needs it and you will never know when you'll need something that friends and family will happily provide for you.
5
Sell your vacuum cleaner to an electronics store. Some stores will buy functional second-hand vacuum cleaners to sell at a cheaper price to others.
- If you're uncomfortable buying and selling products online, this is your next best bet. Having someone in-person walking you through the selling process can help salve any worries about the procedure.

Expert Q&A

Question

What is the disadvantage of using a bagless vacuum cleaner?

Ashley Matuska
Professional Cleaner
Ashley Matuska is a Professional Cleaner at the Founder and Owner of Dashing Maids in Denver, Colorado. Ashley has over seven years of experience in the cleaning industry. She and her team specialize in offering sustainable deep cleaning and maintenance cleaning services.

Ashley Matuska

Professional Cleaner

Expert Answer

After vacuuming, when you empty the canister of a bagless vacuum cleaner, there is a cloud of dust in the air. It tends to get on your skin and hair. Then you have to clean the canister in the sink. The sink can become dirty because of this. So you can have a lot of mess.
Question

How can I clean dirty spots on furniture?

Ashley Matuska
Professional Cleaner
Ashley Matuska is a Professional Cleaner at the Founder and Owner of Dashing Maids in Denver, Colorado. Ashley has over seven years of experience in the cleaning industry. She and her team specialize in offering sustainable deep cleaning and maintenance cleaning services.

Ashley Matuska

Professional Cleaner

Expert Answer

You can use a microfiber towel and some mild cleaning agent to clean the spots on furniture.