7 Clever Uses for a Mini Handheld Vacuum Around the House

A compact handheld vacuum is one of those tools you reach for more than you expect. Because it is light and always charged, it turns small messes into ten-second jobs. Here are seven ways to use one.

1. Keyboards and desks

Crumbs and dust collect between keys. With the computer switched off, use a narrow nozzle or brush attachment to lift debris without pressing too hard.

2. Couch cushions and crevices

Lift the cushions and run the crevice tool along the seams to collect crumbs, coins, pet hair and lint.

3. Car seats, footwells and air vents

A mini vacuum reaches under seats and into door pockets. A soft brush tip loosens dust from dashboard vents.

4. Window and sliding door tracks

Tracks collect grit, dead insects and leaves that make doors stick. Vacuum them dry first, then wipe with a damp cloth.

5. Drawers and shelves

Empty a kitchen drawer or pantry shelf and vacuum out crumbs before wiping it down. It is much quicker than shaking things out over the trash.

6. Pet beds and scratching posts

Run it over pet beds between washes to keep hair and dander under control.

7. Dry spills

Cereal, sugar, rice, soil from a houseplant: small dry spills disappear in seconds.

What not to vacuum

• Liquids, unless your model is designed for wet and dry use.
• Fireplace ash, which can hide hot embers.
• Very fine dust, such as drywall dust or toner, which can clog the filter and damage the motor.
• Broken glass or sharp objects, which can damage the vacuum.

Keep it working well

Empty the dust cup after each use, wash or tap out the filter regularly and let it dry fully before refitting. Store it on its charger so it is ready the next time something spills.