How can I remove an odor from a handheld vacuum cleaner?

Question

The thing smells like rotten garbage or something...I don't know what it can be but it's gross. Is there anything I can do besides change the filter, because I don't know where I can get replacement filters from, they don't sell them at Wal-Mart and I've only had it a few months anyway.

Answer 1

If the filter is paper, rinse it out with Lysol and let it dry. Then use carpet fresh the next time you vacuum.
If the filter is hard screen plastic cup type, scrub it with a soft brush in Lysol detergent and water. Then let it dry. Don't put wet or damp filters in the vacuum.
A rifle cleaning kit works good for cleaning the airways or tubes in the vacuum when using a piece if rag and Lysol spray.

Answer 2

Moth balls work well . Personally i would rather smell old doggy odor than moth balls, but my friend says it neutralizes the odor, so there is no smell at all. People swear by it. Better yet, put some regular vanilla extract from your kitchen on a scrap of paper towel, let it dry and then throw it in the vacuum bag. Then your house smells like you've been baking cookies all day! There are also little beads you can buy in different smells that go in the vacuum bag. You can find them in the air freshner section of our grocery store.

Answer 3

You can use baking soda which will absorb the odor instead of just covering it up.