The Best Vacuum for Cleaning Stairs
The best vacuum for cleaning your stairs in one that allows you to do it safely. This household chore can be hazardous if not approached in the right way, as a vacuum features a power cable and suction hose, both potential trip hazards. These are combined with an increasing distance to fall as you work your way from the ground floor to the upper level of your home. Does this Spark an idea?
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Start at the Bottom
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The safe way to vacuum stairs is to start at the bottom and work your way up. This ensures the hose and tube are always behind you, and nothing is going to fall into you if it gets knocked off a higher tread. If you are working with an upright vacuum, the best type is one with a hose long enough to reach the very top tread when the cleaner is sitting on the floor at the bottom. Ensure there is enough flexibility in the hose to allow you to vacuum the risers as well as the treads. It is awkward and potentially dangerous to work with a hose stretched to its limits.
Canister Vacuums on Stairs
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The best type of canister vacuum for cleaning stairs is one which can stand on its rear. In this position, there is no danger of it moving as its wheels are not in contact with the stair treads. This means you can safely position it on the stair treads behind you as you move upward. But once again, for safety's sake, never position the canister on a stair tread above you. If it falls for any reason, it could knock you backward down the stairs.
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The Best Tools for Stair Vacuuming
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If your stair carpet covers the tread from side to side, place the upholstery nozzle on the hose handle and vacuum the tread, then vacuum the riser from side to side. Use the crevice nozzle for the join between the riser and tread, the stair edges, and also use it to remove dust from the narrow strip of wood on either side. If there is a wider area of wood on either side of the carpet, vacuum this with the dusting brush once you have vacuumed the carpet.
Alternative Stair Vacuums
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A handheld vacuum is a very safe way to vacuum stairs, although it is important to ensure the suction is strong enough to clean them thoroughly. If you decide to purchase one specifically for your stairs, make sure it comes with a crevice nozzle and dusting attachment. It is possible to get handheld vacuums with a visor over the floor tool. Lifting this visor allows you vacuum the stair risers without turning the vacuum upside down or on its side.
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References
- Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Lifesize/Getty Images
