Match the head to the surface
A floor head, upholstery tool, soft dusting brush and crevice nozzle each concentrate suction differently. Read the machine's guidance and the surface's care instructions. Delicate rugs, loose threads and fringes may need a specific setting or a different method. Inspect the attachment for trapped grit or a sharp edge before placing it on polished wood or furniture. A brush that cleaned an entry mat should not automatically move to a lampshade.
Change attachments with the machine safe
Switch off and unplug a corded vacuum before fitting, removing or clearing an attachment, following the manual. For a cordless model, use its specified safe shutdown procedure and avoid the trigger while handling the head. Never put fingers into a moving brush bar. Fit the attachment fully and check that it is secure before restarting. If it will not engage easily, confirm that it belongs to that model instead of forcing the connection.
Let the tool work at a controlled pace
Move steadily, paying attention to the edge of the surface rather than repeatedly pressing the nozzle harder. Stop if fabric lifts, threads pull or the machine sounds strained. Clear blockages only by the permitted procedure. Emptying bins and washing filters are separate maintenance tasks with model-specific rules; a washable filter must be dried exactly as directed before refitting. Keep attachments clean and stored together so the correct one is available the next time you need it.
Before you call it done
- Check both machine and surface instructions.
- Make the machine safe before changing heads.
- Stop for pulled threads or strained running.
Know the limit. Do not vacuum liquids, hot ash, sharp building debris or hazardous dust unless the machine is expressly designed and approved for that material.
