Is your vacuum cleaner not cleaning properly? How often should you replace brushes and filters?
Over time, even a good vacuum cleaner may start cleaning less thoroughly than it did at the beginning. Dust remains on the floor, carpets require several passes, and fine debris accumulates along edges. Contrary to users’ concerns, this is rarely the result of a motor failure. Most often, the cause lies in consumable parts that naturally wear out during everyday use. Brushes are responsible for mechanically collecting dirt, while filters regulate airflow and help maintain suction power. When any of these elements loses its properties, cleaning efficiency drops noticeably, even if the device itself is fully functional.
How often to replace main and side brushes
Brushes are among the fastest-wearing components of a vacuum cleaner, especially in robotic cleaners operating several times a week. The main brush, which has direct contact with the floor or carpet, usually maintains full effectiveness for about 6–12 months. Bristles or rubber blades gradually lose elasticity, making them less effective at picking up dust, sand, and pet hair. Side brushes, responsible for cleaning corners and areas along baseboards, wear out faster and often require replacement no later than after 6 months. Visible bending of the arms or uneven operation is a clear sign that it is time for new accessories.
Filters in a vacuum cleaner – when cleaning is no longer enough
The filter plays a key role in maintaining proper suction power and the correct operation of the entire device. It traps fine dust particles, pollen, and allergens, which over time clog its structure. Even a regularly cleaned filter gradually loses its properties, as microscopic contaminants settle deep within the material. In most vacuum cleaners and robotic cleaners, HEPA filters or their equivalents should be replaced every 3–6 months, depending on usage intensity. A worn filter causes louder operation, higher energy consumption, and a noticeable drop in cleaning performance.
Signs of worn brushes and filters that are easy to overlook
A vacuum cleaner often signals problems with consumable parts, although not always directly. The most common symptoms include:
• a clear drop in suction power despite a full charge or high power setting
• leaving small dust particles on hard floors
• weaker cleaning of carpets and rugs
• louder, uneven operation of the device
• problems with thorough cleaning along walls and in corners
If such symptoms persist despite cleaning the vacuum cleaner, replacing brushes or the filter is very often the solution, rather than changing the operating mode.
How to care for Xiaomi vacuum cleaners and robot cleaners
Xiaomi vacuum cleaners and robot cleaners are designed for regular, automatic or manual cleaning, which makes maintenance particularly important in their case. Both robots from the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum series and upright vacuum cleaners such as the Xiaomi Vacuum Cleaner G20 or G20 Max, require systematic inspection of brushes, filters, and other consumable components. The manufacturer recommends replacing filters every few months and brushes whenever signs of wear or reduced cleaning efficiency are visible. Using dedicated accessories helps maintain stable suction power, thorough cleaning of floors and carpets, and quieter, more efficient operation of the device even after long periods of use.
Regular maintenance means a longer device lifespan
Regular replacement of brushes and filters is one of the simplest ways to extend the lifespan of a vacuum cleaner. Worn consumable parts increase the load on the motor, which can lead to faster wear of components and costly repairs. Systematic maintenance helps maintain high cleaning efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and preserve everyday comfort of use. As a result, the vacuum cleaner operates efficiently for years, and the user avoids the need for premature replacement of the device.
