Got a Question? Ask Alice! 

Queen Vacuum's mascot, Alice, is the go-to gal for all your vacuum-related questions!   

 

Q: "Jane" from Middletown asked:

A:  Don't feel alone, Jane. We've found that most people don't  really understand their vacuum's accessories. Indeed -- each tool has a very specific function and, when used properly, can help clean your home more deeply and easily than you ever imagined!

The image below depicts the standard assortment of vacuum tools and their proper names. Canister-style vacuums almost always come with all of those tools. Almost any upright-style vacuum (equipped with a hose attachment) will have all except the hard-floor brush. Uprights may also come with some "extension wands" (aka "tubes" or "pipes") to help you reach very high or low places.   

All of these tools (when attached to the hose or wands) are designed to direct your vacuum's suction to specific surfaces, dislodging dust and/or hair so that it can be sucked away into the machine. 

Here's how to match up the right tool to the job you're doing... 

Upholstery Tool:  This flat, somewhat wide tool may come with or without bristles. Either way, it is designed to maintain a gentle amount of suction over a wide, relatively flat area. It is perfect for pulling dust and allergens out of soft surfaces like upholstered couches or car seats, carpeted stairs or even your mattress. Equipped with short, stiff bristles or flocking (like a lint brush) it will pull up stubborn lint and pet hair.  

Dusting Brush:  This tool is most often small and round in shape, with the suction opening encircled in long, soft bristles. Use this tool is best for generalized hard-surface dusting: Any place with accumulated dust, cobwebs or crumbs like your computer keyboard, speakers, crown and baseboard moldings, ceiling fans, window blinds, lampshades or drapes, etc. The bristles disrupt stubborn dust without scratching the surface you're cleaning.  

Crevice Tool:  This long and skinny, pointed tube is meant to fit into tight places. Suck up crumbs, lint and dust from; between couch cushions or car seats; behind or under the fridge; in the dryer lint trap. The narrow tip concentrates the airflow into very powerful suction -- look out!  

Hard-Floor Brush:  This tool is usually only provided with canister-type vacuums. Attached to the end of the extension wands, it rests comfortably flat on the floor (wood, tile, etc.). Its wide head covers a large amount of surface, while the soft bristles literally sweep dirt and dust bunnies from the floor as the suction takes the debris away. This is the most effective and non-scratchiest way to dust hard floors!

Hope that's cleared the air a little for you Jane! So don't be shy - take advantage of those dusting tools and make your spring cleaning chores a breeze!  

"It was a pleasure dealing with Rachel & John.  Their knowledge and expertise led me through the maze of machines to pick the right one for our needs. Very friendly & trustworthy service - with a smile!"

- Patti Baxter, Spark Market Solutions, LLC