How to Remove the Smell of a Burnt Rubber Belt in a Vacuum

Burnt rubber is a distinctive smell, especially when it is coming from your vacuum cleaner. This is often the first indication that your vacuum cleaner is having problems. Either your belt is worn and needs to be replaced, or other parts inside the vacuum cleaner are out of alignment and may need to be repaired by a technician. Either way, your first step is to remove the old belt and check to see if that resolves the burnt rubber smell coming from your vacuum.

Screwdriver
Owner's manual for the vacuum cleaner
Replacement belt
Baking soda

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the vacuum cleaner.
- 2
  Remove the cover to your vacuum cleaner, using a screwdriver. Check your vacuum cleaner's owner's manual to make sure you remove the cover properly. If you've lost your owner's manual, most manufacturers make the manuals available in .pdf format on their websites.
- 3
  Remove the old belt, and install the new belt either according to the directions on the package or according to your owner's manual.
- 4
  Replace the cover and plug in the vacuum cleaner. Turn it on and examine the vacuum to make sure the belt is no longer slipping, causing the burned rubber smell. If the belt is still rubbing, you may need to take your vacuum cleaner in for service.
- 5
  Sprinkle a small amount of baking soda onto a patch of carpet. Use the vacuum cleaner to clean up the baking soda. As it moves through the vacuum cleaner, the baking soda will deodorize the remaining burnt rubber smell. Leave the baking soda in the vacuum cleaner's canister for continued deodorizing until the next time you vacuum.

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