I’ve only had it for a couple of months, I’ve taken great care of it, cleaning the filters and everything at least once a week. Well, I went on vacation to see friends for a couple of weeks and left it with my husband, and when I came back… it smelled horrible. (still does.) Not like wet dog, but like a mildewy smell. At first I thought a good hot water & soap cleaning of the filters and canister would help but to no avail. I’ve tried vacuuming up baking soda and it didn’t help. HELP ME!! I love this vacuum cleaner and I don’t want it to be stinky! 🙁
Well, it was fine before I left and I know for a fact my husband wouldn’t bother to take it apart and clean it.. so I don’t think it’s because the filter was wet. perhaps I should just buy another one, can I buy them at a store or will I have to order it?
Try soaking the filter in straight vinegar and then letting it dry before putting it back in. The vinegar should remove the smell.
you left put the filter back in the machine wet…you must let it dry completely before putting it back in the cleaner…get a new filter.
I would say that he probably inadvertently vacuumed up something wet or damp. If the smell is still there (have you checked the HEPPA filter?) then buy one of those perfumed things you put in the dust cup until the smell goes.