How to Repair a Vacuum Cleaner Hose

A vacuum cleaner hose might look sturdy, but they aren’t as sturdy as most people think. Vacuum cleaner hoses are easily punctured, torn, or ripped, but it is possible to repair a torn or damaged vacuum cleaner hose without spending a small fortune in the process. Once you successfully repair a torn or otherwise damaged vacuum cleaner hose it will last indefinitely. When the problem is minor, an easy repair is all that’s required.

I accidentally punctured my vacuum cleaner hose when trying to remove a cat toy. I tried everything from a yardstick to a skewer, and the straightened hanger that finally pulled the toy mouse from the middle of the hose ended up puncturing it in the process. I used the first method of repair on the following list, but the other methods of repair have proved successful for other people. Whether your vacuum cleaner hose is punctured, torn, or ripped, the following ideas will help you choose the best way to repair it.

Duct Tape

Duct tape has come a long way since the first rolls of the silver or gray variety. These days you’ll find duct tape in a number of colors and widths, and although it’s the butt of many jokes, it’s still the number one solution for repairing all types of household items. Cover a torn vacuum cleaner hose with matching duct tape, and it will effectively keep the dirt and dust where it belongs – inside the canister or bag. The tape may require occasional changing, but applying duct tape is a much easier and cheaper option than replacing a torn or punctured hose.

Electrical Tape

Electrical tape also comes in a wide variety of colors, and it’s heat resistant and strong. Consider patching a torn or punctured vacuum cleaner hose with matching electrical tape. Winding it around the damaged area a couple of times should be enough to effectively patch a small puncture or tear. Just like duct tape, electrical tape will probably require occasional replacement, but it’s an easy fix for an otherwise costly problem.

Gorilla Brand Tape

My adhesive of choice is Gorilla brand tape, and if you want to patch a torn vacuum cleaner hose, this brand is sure to do the job. You’ll find Gorilla brand tape at your local Wal-Mart, or you can search online for a retailer in your area at the Gorilla Glue website. I patched a damaged vacuum hose with Gorilla brand tape, and the repair has held for over a year and shows no signs of coming loose.

Bike Tire Repair Kit

Some people with torn vacuum cleaner hoses have successfully patched holes and tears with a bike tire repair kit. Bike tire repair kits are inexpensive, and it’s an easy way to patch a small puncture or tear in flexible rubber. Follow product label instructions for repairing a tire, and the glue and rubber patch should work well to repair the damage.

A Hose Clamp

If you want to strengthen a duct tape or an electrical tape repair, cover the taped area with a hose clamp after taping the area. A hose clamp will keep the hose from bending in the area of the damage, and this will help keep the tape in place and prevent further problems. Look for a clamp of appropriate size at your local hardware or home improvement store. The repair won’t look as bad as you think, and it will greatly extend the life of your vacuum cleaner hose.