How to Vacuum Under Bed?

Keeping your home clean is essential for both comfort and health, and one often-overlooked area in the quest for cleanliness is under the bed. While it may seem like a spot you can easily forget, dust, allergens, and even pests can quickly accumulate beneath this piece of furniture. Regularly vacuuming under the bed not only improves the air quality in your home but also helps maintain a tidy and hygienic environment. In this guide, we’ll guide you through the steps to effectively vacuum under your bed, the tools you’ll need, and why this simple cleaning task is crucial for a healthier living space.

1. Why Vacuuming Under the Bed is Important

Dust and Allergens

Over time, dust tends to accumulate in areas that are often neglected during regular cleaning, and the space under the bed is no exception. Dust consists of tiny particles like dead skin cells, dirt, pollen, and other microscopic debris. When left undisturbed, these particles can build up under your bed, creating a haven for dust mites and other allergens. Vacuuming under the bed regularly helps to reduce the overall dust levels in your home, improving air quality and creating a healthier environment.

For individuals who suffer from allergies or respiratory issues like asthma, removing dust and allergens from hard-to-reach areas is especially important. Vacuuming under the bed can significantly decrease the amount of irritants in the air, helping to alleviate symptoms.

Potential Pests and Mites

Another reason to vacuum under the bed is to prevent the buildup of pests such as dust mites, which thrive in dark, warm environments like the space under your bed. These microscopic creatures are known to trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks, especially in individuals who are sensitive to them. Dust mites feed on dead skin cells, which makes the area under the bed an ideal habitat. Regular vacuuming removes the food source and helps keep their population in check.

Additionally, unvacuumed areas under the bed can also attract other pests, like bedbugs, ants, or even rodents. Although these pests are less common, their presence can be more difficult to spot in hidden areas like under the bed. Vacuuming regularly helps ensure that you’re not unknowingly providing a shelter for such creatures.

General Cleanliness and Hygiene

Vacuuming under the bed is essential for maintaining general cleanliness throughout your home. While it might seem like an area that’s out of sight, the buildup of dirt and debris under the bed can still affect the overall hygiene of the room. When you vacuum under the bed, you are effectively keeping the area free from dirt and ensuring that your room remains tidy and organized. This simple act also contributes to the cleanliness of your floors, as dirt from underneath the bed can sometimes spread onto the rest of the room.

Moreover, if you share your bedroom with pets, cleaning under the bed becomes even more important. Pets shed hair, and their dander can accumulate in hidden areas. A quick vacuum under the bed ensures that pet hair and dander are kept under control, reducing allergens and maintaining a fresh environment.

Improving Indoor Air Quality

Your home’s air quality can be significantly impacted by dust and allergens that accumulate in hidden spaces like under the bed. The air quality in your bedroom, where you spend a significant amount of time, is crucial for a restful night’s sleep. Dust and allergens can irritate your respiratory system, making it harder to breathe and potentially causing sleep disturbances.

By vacuuming under the bed, you not only reduce the visible dirt and debris but also help to eliminate airborne particles that can affect your health. Keeping your bedroom’s air clean improves your sleep quality and overall well-being. Regular vacuuming under the bed contributes to a cleaner, fresher atmosphere, making it easier to breathe while you rest.

2. Tools You’ll Need

Type of Vacuum Cleaner

When it comes to vacuuming under the bed, choosing the right type of vacuum cleaner is essential. The type of vacuum you use can make a significant difference in how effectively you can clean this often-neglected area.

Upright Vacuums: Upright vacuums are a popular choice for general home cleaning. However, they can be bulky and might not fit under low-profile furniture like a bed unless the bed has sufficient clearance. If you do use an upright vacuum, ensure it has a low-profile head or be prepared to move the bed slightly for better access. Some models come with detachable handheld units, which are helpful for reaching tight spots.

Canister Vacuums: Canister vacuums are typically more flexible and maneuverable than upright models. Their long hoses and various attachments allow you to clean under furniture with ease. Canisters are a good choice if you have limited clearance under your bed, as the hose can reach far and the vacuum body can be placed elsewhere. They are also lightweight, which makes it easier to move them around.

Handheld Vacuums: If your bed has a very low clearance, handheld vacuums are a great solution. They are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for cleaning small spaces. Most handheld vacuums come with narrow crevice tools, which can be used to reach tight corners under the bed.

Attachments and Tools

To clean effectively under the bed, your vacuum should be equipped with the right attachments. These tools allow you to reach deeper into corners and spaces that the vacuum’s standard nozzle might miss.

Crevice Tool: The crevice tool is essential for getting into narrow, hard-to-reach spaces. It’s typically a long, thin nozzle that can fit into tight spots, such as the edges of the bed frame or the corners under the bed. This attachment is especially useful when cleaning around bedposts or in the space between the bed and the floor.

Low-Profile Nozzle: Many vacuums come with low-profile nozzles that are specifically designed for cleaning under furniture. These nozzles are flat and narrow, which allows them to easily slide under the bed and other furniture with minimal lifting. If your vacuum does not come with one, you may want to consider purchasing an additional nozzle with a low-profile design.

Flexible Hose Extension: For added reach, a flexible hose extension is helpful, particularly for larger beds or pieces of furniture. The hose can stretch far enough to vacuum under the bed without having to move it. This extension gives you more control and makes it easier to maneuver the vacuum around obstacles.

Pet Hair Attachment: If you have pets, consider using a pet hair attachment. These are designed to pick up pet hair and dander more effectively than standard nozzles. Pet hair can easily get trapped under the bed, and these specialized tools can help ensure a thorough cleaning.

Optional Tools

While the standard vacuum attachments are sufficient for most cases, there are a few optional tools that can enhance your cleaning routine.

Dust Mop or Microfiber Cloth: In some cases, vacuuming alone might not be enough to remove all dust and debris from under the bed, especially in areas with very low clearance. A dust mop or microfiber cloth can be used to manually wipe down hard-to-reach spaces before or after vacuuming. These tools help lift dust that might not be easily sucked into the vacuum.

Long-Handled Duster: If your bed has a particularly high frame, or if you’re unable to get the vacuum under the bed, a long-handled duster can be a good alternative. These dusters often have extendable handles and can be used to sweep dust out from under the bed before vacuuming it up.

Vacuum Maintenance Tools

In addition to the cleaning tools for your vacuum, it’s important to maintain your vacuum cleaner to ensure it works efficiently. Emptying the dustbin or replacing the vacuum bag regularly is a simple yet crucial part of vacuum maintenance. Clogged filters or full dustbins can decrease the vacuum’s suction power, making it less effective in cleaning under the bed and other spaces.

Replacement Filters: If your vacuum uses filters, make sure they are cleaned or replaced according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and reduce suction, making it harder to remove dust and debris from hard-to-reach areas.

Brush Roll Cleaner: If your vacuum has a brush roll, it’s important to clean it regularly to prevent hair and debris buildup. A brush roll cleaner or a pair of scissors can be used to remove tangled hair from the brush, ensuring optimal performance.

3. Preparing to Vacuum Under the Bed

Clear the Area Around the Bed

Before you begin vacuuming under the bed, it’s important to first clear the surrounding area. This step is crucial to ensure that you have enough space to maneuver the vacuum and its attachments. Start by removing any objects, such as clothing, shoes, or furniture, that might be in the way. If you have a rug near the bed, it’s also helpful to move it out of the way to avoid any interference while vacuuming.

If there are any items stored underneath the bed, like boxes, shoes, or extra bedding, be sure to remove them. This will not only give you full access to the floor but also prevent any clutter from getting sucked into the vacuum or obstructing your path. Once the area is clear, you can move on to the next step with a clean workspace.

Check the Clearance Under the Bed

Another important step is assessing the clearance under your bed. If your bed has a low profile, you may need to determine if your vacuum can fit beneath it. Measure the distance between the floor and the underside of the bed frame to ensure that the vacuum or its attachments will fit. If the clearance is minimal, you might need a vacuum with a low-profile nozzle or a handheld vacuum to get into those tight spaces.

If you find that there’s not enough room to fit your vacuum underneath, you may need to slightly lift the bed or use other cleaning tools like a long-handled duster or microfiber cloth to manually remove dust and debris. In cases where lifting the bed isn’t an option, look for ways to clean the edges and corners from the sides or back of the bed, depending on where you can reach.

Move the Bed (if Necessary)

While it may not always be necessary to move the entire bed, doing so can provide a more thorough clean. If the bed frame is heavy or difficult to lift, consider asking someone for assistance or use a bed lifter to raise the bed just enough to access the space underneath. You don’t need to lift it too high, just enough to slide the vacuum nozzle or attachment under the bed.

In some cases, especially if your bed is against a wall, it may be easier to simply pull the bed slightly away from the wall for better access. Moving the bed by a few inches can help you reach areas near the edges, where dust tends to accumulate. Be careful when moving the bed to avoid scratching the floor or damaging the bed frame.

Dusting Before Vacuuming

Although vacuuming is effective for removing most dust and debris, doing a quick dusting before vacuuming can be beneficial. Use a microfiber cloth or a dust mop to wipe down the bed frame, headboard, and any surfaces around the bed. This will remove any loose dust that might otherwise fall onto the floor once you start vacuuming. By dusting before you vacuum, you can prevent this dust from resettling on the floor and ensure a more thorough cleaning.

If the bed is covered in fabric or upholstery, consider using a fabric brush or a handheld vacuum with a soft brush attachment to lift dust from the bed’s surface. This helps prevent dust from being kicked into the air, where it can fall to the floor again after you’ve vacuumed.

Ensure the Vacuum is Ready to Use

Before you start vacuuming, double-check that your vacuum is ready to go. Ensure that the dustbin or bag is empty, as a full dustbin can reduce the vacuum’s suction power. Also, check that the vacuum’s filter is clean, as clogged filters can lead to reduced airflow and make it more difficult to clean under the bed effectively.

If your vacuum uses bags, replace it with a new one if necessary. If it has a filter, make sure it’s properly cleaned or replaced, depending on the manufacturer’s instructions. Finally, attach the appropriate nozzle or tool, such as the crevice tool or low-profile nozzle, and make sure the vacuum is set to the right suction level for the type of flooring you have under the bed (carpet, hardwood, etc.).

4. Steps to Vacuum Under the Bed Effectively

Choose the Right Vacuum Setting

Before you start vacuuming under the bed, it’s important to adjust your vacuum settings for optimal performance. If your vacuum has multiple suction settings, choose the one that best matches the type of flooring under your bed. For carpets, use a higher suction power to lift dust and debris effectively. On hardwood or tile floors, use a lower suction setting to avoid scattering debris or damaging the floor surface.

Some vacuums also have a setting to control the height of the brush roll. If you’re cleaning on carpet, make sure the brush roll is lowered to agitate the carpet fibers and loosen dirt. If you’re cleaning hardwood or tile, you may want to raise the brush roll to prevent scratches on the floor and reduce dust scattering.

Attach the Correct Tool

Depending on the clearance under your bed and the type of debris you’re dealing with, choosing the right tool attachment will make a significant difference. If the space is tight, use a crevice tool or a low-profile nozzle. These attachments are designed to fit into narrow spaces and allow you to vacuum along the edges and corners of the bed frame, where dust and dirt tend to accumulate.

For a more thorough clean, attach a flexible hose extension if your vacuum comes with one. This extension will give you more reach, allowing you to vacuum further under the bed without having to move the furniture. If your bed has a high clearance, you can use the full-sized vacuum head for a quick clean, but be sure to check the edges and corners with the more precise attachments for a deep clean.

Start from One Side and Move Methodically

Once your vacuum is set up and ready, begin vacuuming under the bed from one side. Start at the farthest corner or edge and work your way across the space methodically. Vacuuming in a systematic manner ensures that you cover the entire area without missing spots. Try not to rush, as it’s easy to miss hard-to-reach corners or edges if you are not focused on your movements.

It’s also a good idea to vacuum in multiple directions. Start by moving the nozzle in straight lines along the floor, and then go back in a perpendicular direction to capture any dust or debris that might have been missed. This cross-pattern technique ensures a more thorough clean.

Reach Far into the Corners and Edges

Corners and edges are the most likely places for dust to build up under the bed, so it’s important to give extra attention to these areas. Use your vacuum’s crevice tool or a narrow attachment to carefully reach the far corners, ensuring that dust and debris aren’t left behind. If your bed frame is close to the floor, you may need to carefully maneuver the nozzle to reach these hard-to-reach spots.

Make sure to reach under the bed frame itself, as dust and dirt often collect along the base of the bed. Don’t forget to check the space where the bed meets the wall, as dust can settle here as well. Use short, controlled movements to prevent pushing debris farther under the bed.

Don’t Forget the Bed Frame

While vacuuming the floor beneath the bed is important, you should also take a moment to clean the bed frame itself. Dust can accumulate along the frame and any slats supporting the mattress. Use the crevice tool or a soft brush attachment to gently remove any dust or cobwebs from the bed frame. If the bed has a headboard, this is also a good time to dust it off before finishing the cleaning.

If your bed is upholstered, you can use a fabric brush attachment to gently vacuum the surface. Upholstered beds tend to collect dust and pet hair, so this extra step helps ensure a more complete clean.

Move the Bed if Necessary

If there are areas under the bed that are difficult to reach, you may need to move the bed slightly. If it’s safe to do so, gently slide the bed away from the wall or lift one side to give you better access to hidden spaces. This will allow you to vacuum thoroughly without missing any spots.

If moving the bed is not an option, try using a long-handled duster or a microfiber cloth to wipe down the areas you can’t reach with the vacuum. This is particularly useful for areas where the vacuum nozzle can’t fit or when the clearance is too low to access comfortably.

Perform a Final Sweep

After you’ve vacuumed under the bed, perform a final sweep around the entire room. Check for any dust or debris that may have been displaced during the vacuuming process. This will help to ensure that all areas around the bed are clean and dust-free. If you’ve moved the bed, return it to its original position and give the floor a quick once-over with the vacuum to make sure everything is in place.

Enjoyed this guide of how to vacuum under bed? Then be sure to check out our other vacuum guides.

• Best Vacuum for Automotive Detailing
• Best Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner
• Best Wooden Floor Vacuum
• Best Shark Vacuum for Pet Hair
• Best Vacuum for Stairs
• Best RV Vacuum