5 Things You Should Never Vacuum (2024)

You vacuum might be the most versatile tool in your cleaning arsenal, but not everything can get sucked up without causing damage. Carolyn Forte, the director of the Good Housekeeping Research Institute Home Appliance and Cleaning Products department reminds us of a few items you'll need to clean up another way.

1. Large pieces of glass

Big pieces of broken glass are dangerous for your vacuum. They could puncture the bag, get lodged in the hose, or scratch up the interior, so use a broom instead.

2. Fine dust

If you've recently remodeled, don't vacuum up sanding residue or other tiny particles — you'll need to use a more durable machine (like a shop vac) instead. "Fine dust will clog the filters or bag right away," says Forte, and then the machine might begin spewing dust back into the air.

3. Wet food (or anything moist)

Your average vacuum cleaner is not meant to pick up anything wet — be it soggy cereal, wet dog food, or even a spill. Use a paper towel instead (or get a wet/dry vacuum for big jobs).

RELATED: 11 Spots You're Forgetting to Vacuum »

4. Fireplace Ashes

These ashes trap heat (and are also fine particles) so don't suck them up in a normal vacuum. Let the ashes cool for at least four days, then use a utility or a wet/dry vacuum to clean out the area.

5. Coins, paperclips, or other small items

It's tempting to simply roll over these with a vacuum when you see them lying on the floor, but they could get stuck in the rotating brush or break off plastic pieces inside the appliance.

So what can you pick up with a vacuum?

Hair

It's fine to do a weekly sweep of your pup's favorite spot on the couch, but make sure that hair isn't getting tangled up in the brush roll.

Gravel

While larger rocks aren't good for your appliance, small pieces of gravel can be picked up through the hose attachment.

Dry cereal

Snack foods — like cereal, chips, or other crumbs — are easy to go over with your vacuum cleaner.

NEXT: The Better Way to Bust Dust »

Photo: Lynn James/Getty