Can You Vacuum Wet Baking Soda? All You Need To Know Before You Jump In! 

In most households, a vacuum cleaner is a common accessory used to remove fine dirt. So, if any powdery element like baking soda is spread on the floor, a vacuum cleaner can be handy in removing them as long as you keep the vac clean after vacuuming. What if the baking soda is not dry? Can you vacuum wet baking soda? 

Baking soda is a natural cleaning solution that is highly effective, easy to get, affordable, and does no harm to the environment. Baking soda’s natural antibacterial and deodorizing abilities are very convenient for carpet and other household clean-ups. However, vacuuming baking soda can be tricky more often. In this post, we’ll delve into vacuuming wet baking soda and shed light on in-depth analysis. Let’s start!

Why is Baking Soda Bad for Vacuum Cleaners? 

If the baking soda gets wet, this powdery component can turn into a thick paste. While trying to vacuum the wet baking soda, its paste-like formation undergoes vacuum suction and lowers the machine’s capacity. Besides, vacuuming dry baking soda can also be harmful to your vac. The following ways vacuuming baking soda can damage your vacuum cleaner: 

Electrical Part Damaging 

The paste-like formation of wet baking soda can damage the motor and other electrical parts of the vacuum cleaner. Besides, if you vacuum dry baking soda, the residual can stick inside the vacuum cleaner, including the motor, the filter, and the brush roll, and over time, cause abrasion and wear on these parts. As a result, the vacuum efficiency is reduced and may cause a breakdown.  

Clogging the Filter and Hose Pipe 

The dry baking soda can easily get into the filter and hose pipe of a vacuum cleaner, and the powder particles can quickly clog the filter and hose pipe. As a result, your vacuum’s suction power drops, causing it to overheat. Moreover, wet baking soda’s paste-like formation clogs the filter and hose pipe, which is difficult to clean, preventing the vacuum cleaner from picking up any debris effectively.  

See Also: Can You Vacuum Glass With A Dyson

Overloading the vacuum cleaner 

Excessive use of baking soda can overload the vacuum cleaner’s motor. It can overheat the vacuum, potentially decreasing the performance. 

 
Why Do People Recommend Baking Soda? 

Baking soda is a versatile and affordable cleaning agent that absorbs odors, removes stains, and is used in scrubbing different surfaces like carpets. People recommend baking soda because it is non-toxic and safe to use around children and pets. This effective cleaning component is easy to get at most grocery stores. Apart from that, you can mix baking soda with other common household items to create different types of cleaning solutions. Its versatility and effectiveness make it a popular choice, and that’s why baking soda is the popular choice. 

How to Get Baking Soda Out of Vacuum? 

To get the baking soda out of a vacuum cleaner, you can follow these steps: 

Step 1: Remove the attachments and filters of your vac. 

Step 2: Carefully dispose of the dustbin or the bag in a trash can. 

Step 3: Gently brush any remaining baking soda off the filter and other parts; use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush. 

Step 4: Use a vacuum hose or a can of compressed air to remove the remaining baking soda particles from the vacuum cleaner. If the filter is washable, then clean it with fresh water. 

Step 5: Reattach the filter and other necessary attachments and test the vacuum to make sure it’s working properly. 

Note: It’s best to avoid vacuuming baking soda, but if there is no choice, make sure it’s completely dry when you start vacuuming. 

How to Vacuum Carpet with Baking Soda 

Step 1: Remove any large debris from the carpet. 

Step 2: Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the entire carpet.  

Step 3: Leave the baking soda on the carpet and wait at least 15 minutes up to several hours to allow it to absorb properly. 

Step 4: After that, vacuum the carpet slowly and allow it to clean the carpet by extracting as much baking soda and other particles as possible. 

Step 5: Clean the vac. Empty the dustbin or replace the vacuum bag once you’re done cleaning. 

Step 6: If there’s any remaining baking soda and other residuals on the carpet, use a soft-bristled brush or a handheld vacuum to remove them. 

How to Avoid Damage to Your Vacuum While Using Baking Soda 

By following these tips below, you can safely use baking soda with your vacuum cleaner and prevent any damage to it: 

1. Never vacuum the wet baking soda. Let it dry completely before rolling over it on the surface. 

2. Sprinkle baking soda equally all over the surface you need to clean. Avoid using excessive amounts. 

3. Use a hand brush or broom to sweep up the excess baking soda (if any) before using your vacuum cleaner. 

4. Vacuum with a HEPA filter can prevent baking soda particles from being stuck into the motor or clogging the filter. 

5. Clean the vacuum filter regularly to enhance its longevity. 

6. Inspect if there is any unusual sound or odor from your vacuum cleaner.  

How to Clean Up Baking Soda without a Vacuum 

Step 1: Use a broom or a brush to sweep up as much baking soda as possible from the surface. 

Step 2: Use a dustpan to scoop up the baking soda and transfer it to a trash can. 

Step 3: If there’s any remaining baking soda on the surface, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe it up. 

Step 4: After that, rinse the cloth or sponge properly to prevent spreading the baking soda around. 

Step 5: Once you’ve wiped up, let the surface air dry. 

Note: If the baking soda is wet or has formed a paste, it can be more challenging to clean up based on the surface. If it’s on your carpet, then it’s recommended to call for a professional carpet cleaning service. 

Final Thoughts 

Vacuuming your musty carpet with baking soda is a great option to restore the elegance of your carpet. However, it’s not recommended to vacuum wet baking soda; you must wait until it gets dried. While vacuuming dry baking soda, consider cleaning the dust cup or replacing the dust bag as soon as vacuuming is completed. However, it’s best to use a broom, soft bristle brush, or damp cloth to pick up the particles of baking soda.  

Can You Vacuum Wet Baking Soda? FAQs