Like any good appliance, your Henry vacuum cleaner needs a bit of TLC every now and then. And one of the most important bits of maintenance you can do for your partner in grime is to change the bag. A full (or dirty vac bag) can make your vacuum way less effective and could even damage the motor over time. Especially if you don’t do anything about it.

So, in this piece, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Henry vacuum bags. We’ll cover the signs that show the bag is on its last legs, along with step-by-step instructions for changing the bag, handy repair tips and lots more. Let’s get going…

Signs it’s time to change your Henry vacuum cleaner bag

First things first, how do you know it’s time to change the bag? Here’s a few telltale signs:

1. Less suction – If you spot that your Henry isn’t picking up dirt and debris like it should, it’s probably time to check the bag. A full bag can really reduce the suction power, making your vac a lot less effective.

2. Dust escaping – Dust coming from the vacuum? That’s a clear sign the bag is either damaged, full, or isn’t sealed up properly.

3. Nasty smells – A bag that’s chocka can start to stink, especially if you’ve been cleaning up pet hair or bits of food.

4. Motor strain – The motor has to work harder to pull air through a clogged bag. And that can easily lead to overheating and potential damage. So, if it’s making strange noises, or seems to be working harder than usual, it’s worth a look under the hood.

5. Indicator light – Some models come with an indicator light that tells you when the bag is full. If you see this light, swap in a new bag as soon as you can.

Step-by-step guide to replacing the bag

Now that you know the signs, it’s time to fit a replacement bag. It’s pretty easy to do, but it’s important to do it right. Otherwise, your vac might not work exactly like it should.

Here’s how to change the bag…

Preparing your vacuum for maintenance

Before you start, make sure you’ve got everything you need, and that your vacuum is in a safe, clean spot. Ready to get going? Read on…

1. Unplug the vacuum – Safety first. Always unplug your Henry before you do any maintenance. You don’t want to give yourself an electric shock.

2. Find a good workspace – Choose a flat, stable surface to work on. A table or countertop works well. Make sure it’s well-lit and clear of clutter.

3. Get your tools together – You’ll need a new Henry vac bag, a screwdriver (if your model requires one), as well as a bin bag to get rid of the old bag.

4. Read the manual – We know, we know – nobody likes doing this. But if you’re not familiar with the model you’ve got, it can be really helpful to have a quick flick through it. The specific instructions and diagrams can be a life saver.

Removing the old bag

Now that you’re all set up, it’s time to take out the old bag. Here’s how:

1. Find the bag compartment – On most Henry vacuums, the bag compartment is on the back of the vac. Look for a latch or a door that you can open.

2. Open it up – Depending on the model, you might need to press a button, slide a latch, or turn a knob to open the compartment. Be gentle. Then you won’t accidentally damage any parts.

3. Remove the old bag – Once it’s open, you should see the old bag. Some models have a little handle or tab that you can pull to remove it. If your Henry uses a screw or clip to secure the bag, use a screwdriver to take it out.

4. Bin the old bag – Carefully remove the old bag and pop it in the bin. Don’t rush though, as it’s probably going to be full of dirt and dust. Split the bag, and you’ll have a whole other clean up on your hands.

Installing a new bag

With the old bag out the way, it’s time to install the new one. Just follow these steps:

1. Prep the new bag – Take the fresh Henry vacuum bag out of the packaging. Check it’s the right size and type for your vac. Some bags come pre-assembled, but others might need to be unfolded or attached to a frame.

2. Attach the new bag – Place the new bag into the compartment. It needs to fit snugly and should be properly aligned. If your model used a screw or clip to secure the bag, reattach it now.

3. Close the compartment – Once the bag is in place, close the compartment door. Make sure it clicks and is shut securely.

4. Check for leaks – Before you plug the vacuum back in, give it a once-over to see if everything is sealed properly. There shouldn’t be any gaps or loose parts. If there are, they could cause leaks.

Tips for maintaining your Henry vacuum cleaner

Changing the bag is just one part of keeping Henry vacuum cleaners in tip top shape. We’d recommend doing all of this when you can too…

• Regular cleaning – Wipe down the outside of the vac with a damp cloth to get rid of any muck. It’ll require a bit of elbow grease, but you’ll stop any yucky buildup – which if left, can eventually affect Henry’s performance.

• Check the wheels – If the wheels are stuffed full of hair and debris, it’ll feel like you’re dragging Henry through sludge. Grab a brush or a toothpick and clean them out to keep them rolling smoothly.

• Inspect the hose – Is the hose blocked or damaged? Use a brush or a wire to clear any clogs and replace the hose if it’s broken.

• Empty the dust container – If your vacuum has one, make sure you empty it often. A full container can reduce suction a lot.

Cleaning or replacing the filter

The filter is a crucial component of the vac. Here’s how to clean or replace it:

1. Locate the filter – It’ll usually be near the bag compartment. Some models have a filter you can wash. Others need a complete replacement.

2. Remove the filter – Open up the filter compartment and carefully take the filter out. If it’s washable, rinse it under running water and let it dry before it goes back in.

3. Replace it – If your filter can’t be washed, replace it with a new one. It’ll need to be compatible for the model you’ve got.

4. Put it back in – Once the filter is clean (or has been replaced), put it back in the compartment and close the door.

Proper storage & repairs

Finally, clever storage and regular repairs can help to make your Henry last longer. Here’s a few top tips:

• Store in a dry place – Keep your vacuum in a dry, well-ventilated area. Moisture can damage the motor and other parts.

• Hang it up – If possible – and you’ve got one that’s sturdy enough – put the Henry on a hook or stand. It’ll keep it off the floor and stops the hose from getting kinked.

• Keep it accessible – Store the vac where it’s easy to reach. If it’s not a pain to get to, you might actually maintain it regularly. That’s the theory anyway…

• Check for damage – Inspect your vac for signs of damage every now and then. Keep an eye out for cracks and loose parts. Spotted any? Fix them up now. Otherwise, you might end up damaging your Henry beyond repair.

Need more advice?

What if your vacuum cleaner doesn’t use a bag? Here’s how to look after your bag-free vacuum cleaner. And if you’re on the hunt for a new vac, check out our piece – which vacuum cleaner should I buy? It’ll clear up all your cleaning-based questions quick time!