How to Keep a Vacuum Cleaner Smelling Fresh

Change the interior vacuum bag and wash the exterior bag. Odors from pet dander and dust in the home can make the bag smell bad over time. Some exterior bags are machine washable for easy cleaning. If yours isn't, wipe down the bag with a damp cloth.

Wash out the plastic dirt canister with mild soap and warm water if your vacuum cleaner is bagless. Gunk and dirt can stick to the sides of the canister, causing it to smell.

Sprinkle a fragrant spice of your choice inside the bag. Some spices to consider include cinnamon and lemon verbena. Sprinkle the spices directly on dark-colored carpets and vacuum away; the spice scent infuses the vacuum cleaner when absorbed from the carpeting.

Add a tablespoon of baking soda to the bag before you use the vacuum. If your model does not have a bag, sprinkle several tablespoons of baking soda on the carpet and vacuum it up. Baking soda naturally absorbs and eliminates odors.

Place a fabric softener sheet inside the bag or plastic compartment. As you turn on the machine, the smell of the fabric softener permeates the bag and compartment, keeping it smelling fresh.

Remove the buildup of dust and grime by wiping the exterior of the machine with mild soap and warm water and a clean cloth. Then spray the vacuum cleaner with a disinfectant spray to eliminate lingering germs.