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How to change a vacuum cleaner bag (without the mess)

Is your vacuum not clearing crumbs like it should? Sounds like the bag needs a change, and we’ve got the best way to easily replace it – without any mess.

By Katie Lilywhite

We’ve all been there, halfway through a full house clean, and your vac feels like it’s just not picking up dirt the way it usually does. When it's time to change the dust bag mid-clean, you want to do it without fear that the contents are going to end up back all over the floor.

Luckily, after much trial and error, we’ve got the technique down to a science. Just follow these simple steps and you’ll never have to grab that dustpan again.

How to empty and change your vacuum bag

Step 1: Turn off and unplug

First off, make sure your vac is turned off and unplugged. That’ll help you avoid a surprise power-up while you’re halfway through the job.

Step 2: Prep your area

Grab an old towel, newspaper, or basically anything you don’t mind getting a tad grubby. Lay it under your vac to catch any loose dust floating around and have a bin bag ready to go.

Step 3: Open the bag compartment slowly

Gently open up your vac to avoid shaking any stray dirt – trust us, the last thing you want is a dust shower.

Step 4: Seal the old bag

Some vacuum bags have a sliding tab or flap, slide this shut if yours has one. If not, just fold the opening over and tape it shut for the next best thing.

Step 5: Carefully remove the bag

Keeping it upright, take out the bag, making sure not to squeeze it. Pop it straight in the bin bag and tie it up.

Step 6: Give the compartment a quick clean

If there’s any lingering dust hanging around, a quick wipe with a damp cloth will handle that. Just make sure everything’s fully dry before popping a new bag in.