How to Get Tree Sap Out a Vacuum Hose

Sap in a vacuum hose doesn't respond to soap and water.

In the effort to keep your house clean, it's possible to vacuum up all kinds of substances that can clog up your vacuum hose. Pine sap is particularly hard to get rid of, especially when you can't reach it very well. Use an alcohol-based cleaning substance to eliminate tree sap inside a vacuum hose because hot, soapy water will have no effect.

Things You'll Need

• Rubber gloves
• Alcohol-based cleaner, like mineral oil, bug and tar remover, paint thinner or nail polish remover
• Dryer hose lint brush with a long handle
• Dish soap
• Garden hose

Instructions

1. Detach the vacuum hose from the unit and take it outside in the grass near a water hose. Put on the rubber gloves to protect your hands from the harsh chemicals.

2. Pour a few cups of mineral oil into one end of the vacuum hose, while the other end is propped up into a "U" shape. Prevent the mineral oil from spilling out of each end by grasping the hose ends in each hand.

3. Rock the vacuum hose back and forth by raising and lowering the ends. Allow the mineral oil inside to coat as much of the hose as possible. Add more mineral oil, if you desire.

4. Insert the dryer lint brush into one end of the vacuum hose. Keep the opposite end propped up so the mineral oil doesn't spill out. Twist and spin the lint brush so that the bristles are scrubbing the inside of the vacuum hose.

5. Work the brush down to the center of the vacuum hose, and remove it. Insert the brush into the other end of the vacuum hose, scrubbing to the center from the other side. Remove the brush and let the vacuum hose sit for about five minutes so the mineral oil can react with the pine sap.

6. Flush the vacuum hose out with water from the hose until the water runs clear and there are no pieces of sap flowing out. Squeeze a little dishwashing liquid in one side of the vacuum hose, and flush it thoroughly. Repeat the whole process if necessary.

7. Allow the vacuum hose to air dry while looped over a fixed object, like a patio railing or clothes line. Hang it so both ends are down, allowing any remaining water to drip out.

Tips & Warnings

• There are several liquid products on the market specifically for sap removal. Look for them in the automotive department.

• Work in a well-ventilated area because some of the chemicals can adversely affect your breathing.

References

• Backpacker Magazine: Ask Kristin; How Do I Get Sap Off My Gear?
• Auto Express: Bug Cleaner Test
• Central Vacuum Stores: Troubleshooting
• "Martha Stewart's Homekeeping Handbook: The Essential Guide to Caring for Everything in Your Home;" Martha Stewart; 2006