It's a familiar sound to anyone who's ever used a vacuum -- the grinding of the vacuum cleaner motor as it struggles to suck up something through its hose attachment that is just way too big. Socks are common objects that inadvertently make their way into vacuum cleaner hoses. You can get a sock out of a vacuum hose with a few simple steps. If one of them doesn't work, try another. Eventually your vacuum will be sock-free once again.

  • It's a familiar sound to anyone who's ever used a vacuum -- the grinding of the vacuum cleaner motor as it struggles to suck up something through its hose attachment that is just way too big.

Turn off the power to the vacuum cleaner. Unplug it from the wall.

Remove any attachments from the vacuum hose. Look inside the end and see if you can pull out the sock with your fingers. If you cannot reach, try a pair of needlenose pliers.

Unscrew the vacuum hose from the vacuum cleaner. These hoses usually lock into the rear of the vacuum cleaner. Remove the hose by turning it counterclockwise to unlock and then pulling the end straight out of the vacuum cleaner.

  • Remove any attachments from the vacuum hose.
  • Remove the hose by turning it counterclockwise to unlock and then pulling the end straight out of the vacuum cleaner.

Insert the end of a long, thin object, such as a broom or mop handle, into the end of the vacuum cleaner hose.

Continue pushing the handle through the vacuum cleaner hose until the sock emerges at the other end.

Replace the vacuum cleaner hose into the vacuum cleaner. Secure it by turning it to the right and locking it in place.

WARNING

Wear a mask during this procedure if you are highly allergic to dust.