How do you clean a Black and Decker pivot vacuum?

Keeping your Black and Decker pivot vacuum clean is essential for maintaining peak performance. A dirty vacuum will not only perform poorly, but can also spread dust and allergens throughout your home.

Fortunately, cleaning your pivot vacuum is a relatively simple process that only takes about 10-15 minutes. With regular maintenance every 1-3 months, your vacuum will provide years of effective cleaning power.

Supplies Needed

Gather the following supplies before beginning the cleaning process:

  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Small stiff bristle brush
  • Cloth or paper towel
  • New vacuum filter (if due for replacement)

Preparation

Follow these steps to prepare your pivot vacuum for cleaning:

  1. Unplug the vacuum from any power source
  2. Remove the dirt cup from the vacuum body
  3. Empty the dirt cup over a trash can
  4. Tap the dirt cup against the side of the trash can to loosen any debris

Clean the Dirt Cup

Give the dirt cup a thorough cleaning with these steps:

  1. Remove the filter from the dirt cup
  2. Rinse the dirt cup with water and use your finger to agitate any stuck on debris
  3. Allow the dirt cup to air dry completely before reassembling
  4. Wash the filter with water and allow to fully air dry if needed

Clean the Vacuum Body

Follow these instructions to clean the main vacuum body:

  1. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the bottom plate from the vacuum body
  2. Carefully dump out any debris, being careful not to touch the rotating brushes
  3. Use a small stiff bristle brush to loosen any hair, threads, or debris wrapped around the brushes
  4. Wipe the inside of the vacuum body with a dry cloth or paper towel
  5. Check the belt for signs of wear/damage and replace if needed
  6. Reattach the bottom plate

Clean the Filters

It’s important to regularly clean or replace the filters. Here’s how:

  1. Check foam and felt filters and rinse thoroughly with water if dirty
  2. Allow filters to air dry completely before reinstalling
  3. Replace any filters that are worn out or damaged
  4. Most filters should be replaced every 6-12 months for best performance

Reassemble the Vacuum

Once all the parts are clean and dry, reassemble your pivot vacuum:

  1. Replace the filters if installing new ones
  2. Insert the dirt cup back into the vacuum body, pressing firmly until it clicks into place
  3. Wrap cord around cord hooks to prevent tangling

Conclusion

Cleaning your Black and Decker pivot vacuum every 1-3 months takes just 10-15 minutes but is essential for maintaining strong suction power. Simply empty the dirt cup, rinse filters, check belts, and wipe out the vacuum body to keep your vacuum in tip-top shape.

With proper maintenance, your pivot vacuum should provide many years of effective cleaning performance. Be sure to replace any worn parts like filters and belts. Following the cleaning steps above will help maximize your vacuum’s suction and cleaning abilities.

Here is a quick recap of the cleaning process:

Supplies Needed

  • Screwdriver
  • Stiff bristle brush
  • Cloth or paper towel
  • New filters (if needed)

Steps to Clean

  1. Unplug and empty dirt cup
  2. Rinse dirt cup and filters
  3. Remove bottom plate and clean interior
  4. Check/replace filters and belts
  5. Reassemble vacuum

Following these simple pivot vacuum cleaning steps will help maintain your Black and Decker vacuum for optimal cleaning performance.

Here are some additional tips for keeping your pivot vacuum in great shape:

Regular Maintenance Tips

  • Clean the dirt cup after every use
  • Check brushes and belts for damage
  • Rinse filters monthly
  • Replace filters every 6-12 months
  • Use screwdriver to cut away tangled hair on brushes
  • Store vacuum with cord wrapped neatly

With regular cleaning and care, your Black and Decker pivot vacuum will provide many years of strong suction performance. Maintaining your vacuum is the best way to protect your investment and keep your home clean.