Canister vacuum cleaners are an essential addition to households that require efficient and versatile cleaning solutions.
Offering convenience and maneuverability, these devices can tackle various floor types and reach even the most challenging corners.
We’ve spent countless hours researching and testing various canister vacuum cleaners to identify the ones that make cleaning straightforward and thorough.
Best Canister Vacuum Cleaners
Best Overall Canister Vacuum Cleaner: Miele Compact C1 Turbo
Best Budget Canister Vacuum: BISSELL Zing
Best Lightweight Canister Vacuum: Kenmore BC3005
Best Suction Power Canister Vacuum: Miele Blizzard CX1
Best Canister Vacuum For Deep Cleaning: Shark CZ2001 Vertex
Best Canister Vacuum with HEPA Filtration: Atrix AHC Turbo Red
Best Small Canister Vacuum Cleaner: BLACK+DECKER BDXCAV217G
Best Commercial Canister Vacuum Cleaner: Hoover Commercial CH30000 PortaPOWER
Best Canister Vacuum with Washable Filters: Eureka WhirlWind
Miele Compact C1 Turbo
The Miele Compact C1 Turbo Team Vacuum offers powerful yet lightweight cleaning – perfect for homes with hard floors and low pile carpets.
Pros
- Powerful suction with 6 adjustable settings
- Lightweight and compact design for easy storage
- Comprehensive AirClean filtration system
Cons
- Expensive compared to some competitors
- Requires monthly disposable bag replacement
- Lacks convenience of cordless vacuum cleaners
The Miele Compact C1 Turbo Team Bagged Canister Vacuum caught our attention with its strong suction power and lightweight design.
We found it easy to maneuver around the furniture, effortlessly switching between the six suction power settings to clean various surfaces.
The different attachments, such as the dusting brush and crevice tool, made cleaning even the most difficult-to-reach spots a breeze.
The vacuum’s AirClean filtration system was another outstanding feature.
Consisting of a genuine Miele FilterBag, Motor Protection Filter, and AirClean Exhaust Filter, we observed that the room air felt cleaner after vacuuming than before.
However, despite its many advantages, we noticed several drawbacks as well.
One aspect worth mentioning was the cost of the Miele Compact C1.
Although it delivered excellent performance, it was indeed pricier compared to some of its competitors.
Moreover, purchasing disposable bags monthly added to the overall expense.
- POWERFUL & LIGHTWEIGHT: Bagged canister vacuum cleaner ideal for homes with hard floors and low pile carpeting. Compact body style for easy storage
- STRONG SUCTION POWER: Switch between 6 suction power settings specific to the surface being cleaned
- MAXIMUM MANEUVERABILITY: Vacuum easily around and underneath furniture, or use the clipped on accessories to clean upholstery or hard to reach places
- AIRCLEAN SYSTEM: Miele's unique 3-tiered filtration system consists of a genuine Miele FilterBag, Motor Protection Filter and AirClean Exhaust Filter. The room air is cleaner after vacuuming than before
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: STB 305-3 TurboTeQ Flooread, SBB Parquet-3 Floorhead, Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool and Upholstery Tool
BISSELL Zing
The BISSELL Zing is a reliable and efficient vacuum cleaner that makes mess removal hassle-free across various surfaces; however, it has some minor drawbacks.
Pros
- Powerful cyclonic action and suction
- Easy transition between carpets and hard floors
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons
- Short power cord
- No rotating brush for carpeted floors
- Plastic hose tends to disconnect
We recently used the BISSELL Zing Lightweight Bagless Canister Vacuum, and we were impressed with its powerful suction.
It features cyclonic technology, providing continuous and thorough cleaning across carpets and hard floors.
The vacuum is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and maneuver between rooms.
The swivel steering helps in navigating around furniture with ease and gives user better control while cleaning.
As the vacuum has a bagless design, there is no need to buy or change bags ever. The 2-liter dirt cup capacity is easy to empty, ensuring a mess-free and bottom-tank emptying process.
Also, the vacuum’s filters in the dirt tank and the post-motor filter are washable and reusable.
However, we noticed a few downsides to this vacuum cleaner. Firstly, the power cord is only 15 feet long, limiting the cleaning reach and potentially requiring frequent outlet changes.
Moreover, BISSELL Zing does not come with an attachment featuring a rotating brush, making it less effective on carpeted floors.
Lastly, the plastic hose tends to disconnect occasionally, which can be irksome during the vacuuming process.
- Dirt cup capacity 2 liters; Cyclonic action and powerful suction provide thorough cleaning; Plus, no more bags to buy or change ever.Amperage : 9 amps
- Easily go from cleaning carpets to hard floors with the flip of a switch. Power rating : 9 ampere
- Dirt cup filters and post motor filter help capture more fine dust and particles. Filters are washable and reusable, Dirt and debris go through three stages of filtration starting with the filters in the Dirt Tank and then the Post-Motor Filter.
- 15 feet of cord for great cleaning reach and retracts with the touch of a button for easy storage
- Weighs less than eight pounds. Easy to maneuver with the integrated carrying handle. No Dirt Sensor
Kenmore BC3005
The Kenmore BC3005 excels at cleaning various surfaces efficiently, making it a worthy purchase.
Pros
- Lightweight and maneuverable with swivel steering
- Retractable 26-foot cord allows for easy storage
- Triple HEPA filter system ensures effective trapping of dirt
Cons
- More plastic components compared to older Kenmore models
- Struggles to pick up pet hair on thick carpets efficiently
- Hose handle design may not suit everyone
The Kenmore BC3005 has impressed us with its multi-faceted performance.
Its lightweight and swivel steering design, weighing less than 20 pounds, makes it easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces.
The suction power is quite surprising, allowing for quick and effective cleaning across various surfaces.
The vacuum features a triple HEPA filter system, which enhances its ability to trap 99.97% of dirt and stains.
This makes it an ideal choice for people who suffer from allergies, as well as those looking to maintain a clean and healthy home environment.
Additionally, the vacuum comes with practical accessories, such as brushes, crevice tools, bare floor tools, and two HEPA bags, making it easy to clean different areas efficiently.
However, the vacuum has its shortcomings. While the older Kenmore models had more metal in their construction, this new version has more plastic components, raising concerns about its durability.
While it’s excellent at cleaning many surfaces, picking up pet hair on thick carpets poses a challenge.
Lastly, the hose handle design may not be suitable for everyone, but it does not detract from the overall efficacy of the vacuum.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE: At less than 20 pounds, this lightweight design, with swivel steering, is easy to maneuver.Suction Power(Hose End) ≥210W. Vol./Amps 120v 12A.210.0 watts.Cleaning Width(in) : 14". Allergen Seal : Yes. Suction Type : Motorized.
- STORAGE & 3 ATTACHMENTS : 26' cord is retractable and all accessories attachments store neatly on the vacuum making it easy to store. Accessories include: brush, crevice tool, bare floor tool and 2pcs HEPA bags
- BAGGED CANISTER VACUUM: Designed to clean all areas and surfaces of your entire home, den, kitchen, car or garage quickly and efficiently
- POWERFUL CLEANING & ALUMINUM TELESCOPING WAND: 2-motor system excels in suction strength. 4 height adjustments provide optimal airflow and cleaning efficiency for any surface. Extendable lightweight wand lengthens to 9.5 feet of-reach to access difficult areas. Detachable handle is perfect for cleaning furniture, car interiors, and tight spaces
- TRIPLE HEPA FILTER SYSTEM: Enhanced HEPA filter traps 99. 97% of stains, trapping dirt inside the vacuum
Miele Blizzard CX1
The Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog vacuum is an ideal choice for pet owners seeking powerful suction and easy maintenance.
Pros
- Exceptional suction power with 4 suction settings
- Convenient bagless design with easy emptying process
- HEPA Lifetime Filter for top-notch filtration
Cons
- Slightly heavier at 19 pounds
- Smaller dust container
- Noise level of 72 dB
We recently tried out the Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog Bagless Canister Vacuum and were quite impressed with its performance, particularly on pet hair. As pet owners, we found this vacuum to be very efficient in removing pet hair from various surfaces, thanks to its handheld Turbo Brush specifically designed for this purpose.
With its vortex technology, the vacuum offers powerful suction while ensuring that both coarse and fine dust are effectively captured. We loved the fact that it comes with a maintenance-free HEPA Lifetime Filter and Gore CleanStream Fine Dust Filter, ensuring optimal filtration and improving the indoor air quality.
One feature that stood out to us was the ability to switch between four suction power settings, making it suitable for different types of flooring and surfaces. However, we did notice that the vacuum is somewhat heavier compared to other models, weighing in at 19 pounds. Moreover, its dust container is slightly smaller, which might require more frequent emptying.
Another aspect to consider is the noise level, which is 72 dB. While it may not be the quietest vacuum cleaner on the market, it is not excessively loud either.
- GERMAN ENGINEERED: Bagless canister vacuum with strong suction power, ideal for homes with hard floors and low pile carpeting. Switch between 4 suction power settings for different surfaces
- VORTEX TECHNOLOGY: Innovative cleaning performance, ensuring all coarse and fine dust is captured while cleaning
- HYGIENE LIFETIME FILTER: Maintenance-free Hygiene Lifetime Filter and Gore CleanStream Fine Dust Filter ensure top-notch filtration
- EASY EMPTYING: With Click2Open hygienic emptying, you do not have to worry about a cloud of fine dust coming back up into the air while emptying the dust bin
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: SBD 365-3 Combination Floorhead, Dusting Brush on Handle, Integrated Crevice Tool and Upholstery Tool
Shark CZ2001 Vertex
The Shark CZ2001 Vertex is an excellent choice for those looking for powerful suction and advanced cleaning technology in a compact canister vacuum.
Pros
- DuoClean PowerFins for deep cleaning on carpets and floors
- Self-cleaning brushroll to prevent hair wrap
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal for trapping dust and allergens
Cons
- Relatively short power cord
- Hose may kink easily
- Floor piece could be wider for better coverage
The Shark CZ2001 Vertex has impressed us with its DuoClean PowerFins technology, which effectively tackles dirt and debris on various surfaces, including carpets and hard floors.
The dual-brushroll system picks up more in every pass compared to the original DuoClean design, ensuring a thorough cleaning job.
One of the standout features of this vacuum cleaner is its self-cleaning brushroll, which eliminates the common issue of hair wrap.
As we used the vacuum, we noticed that it managed to pick up pet hair efficiently without any need for constant maintenance.
Furthermore, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology traps over 99.9% of dust and allergens, keeping the air we breathe clean and safe.
However, we did come across a few drawbacks while using the Shark Vertex Canister Vacuum, such as the relatively short power cord and the easily-kinked hose.
These issues might affect the overall convenience of using the vacuum, but they do not undermine its performance.
Additionally, we found the floor piece a bit narrow, which may require extra passes to clean larger areas completely.
- DUOCLEAN POWERFINS: Dual-brushroll system - dig deep into carpets and directly engage floors to pick up more in every pass (vs. original DuoClean).
- NO HAIR WRAP: Self-cleaning brushroll delivers powerful pet hair pickup without wrapping hair.
- FLEXIBLE WAND: MultiFLEX technology allows you to bend the vacuum to clean under furniture, or fold it over for compact, freestanding storage.
- ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Traps and seals over 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens inside the vacuum, keeping them out of the air you breathe. (*Based on ASTM F1977, down to .3 microns.)
- MANEUVERABLE, COMPACT CANISTER: The compact canister is built with Smooth Glide wheels to effortlessly glide behind you from room to room as you clean.
Atrix AHC Turbo Red
The Atrix AHC Turbo Red is a solid choice for those seeking an efficient and versatile vacuum for their home or office.
Pros
- Powerful 1,400-watt motor with variable speed
- 6-quart HEPA bag with 3 filtration stages
- Telescopic metal wand with 17 height settings
Cons
- Slightly heavier than similar vacuums at 10.9 pounds
- Cord length may be limiting for larger areas
- Not suitable for hazardous particulate
We found this Atrix vacuum to be quite effective at handling a variety of surfaces, thanks to its variable speed motor.
Transitioning from hardwood floors to fine draperies was smooth and straightforward.
The unit’s compact size (18″ x 8.5″ x 12″) also makes it easy to store when not in use.
The HEPA filtration system is one of the standout features of this vacuum.
With three levels of filtration – a 6-quart HEPA bag, HEPA exhaust filter, and foam premotor filter – it effectively captures common allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites.
An indicator light on the front of the vacuum lets you know when it’s time to change the bag.
The Atrix AHC Turbo Red also boasts a telescopic metal wand with 17 height settings, making it convenient to reach various spots around the home or office.
While the vacuum itself might be slightly heavier than we’d prefer, its powerful suction and comprehensive features make it a reliable option for a wide range of cleaning tasks.
- 6 QUART HEPA BAG FILTER WITH 3 FILTRATION STAGES - The Turbo Red AHC-1 portable vacuum cleaner has a 6 quart HEPA bag. An indicator light tells you when the bag is full and needs to be changed.
- 3 VARIABLE SPEED SUCTION - Unlike most small vacuum cleaners, the light weight bagged vacuum provides a 1400 watt variable speed motor. Go from hardwood floors to fine draperies without the perfect suction for any task.
- TELESCOPIC METAL WAND - The small commercial vacuum includes a telescopic metal wand with 17 height settings. This allows you to reach those hard to reach places with ease and comfort.
- PACKED WITH ATTACHMENTS - This vacuum product includes: The Turbo Red Canister Vac, 6 foot hose, 22"-36" telescopic extension, floor tool, brushes and nozzles, accessory holder, 2 HEPA bags, multi step filters
- PERFECT VACUUM FOR HOME AND OFFICE - The lightweight, portable, and powerful vacuum is the perfect vacuum for the home or office. The compact design allows you to store the vacuum easily when not in use.
BLACK+DECKER BDXCAV217G
A reliable and powerful vacuum cleaner that offers adjustable suction, works well for individuals with allergies, and makes cleaning a breeze.
Pros
- Adjustable multi-cyclonic suction system
- Large capacity and anti-allergen HEPA filter
- Lightweight, maneuverable, and user-friendly design
Cons
- Limited variety of attachments
- May not be suitable for tall users
- Not ideal for all floor types
After personally using the BLACK+DECKER BDXCAV217G, we can confidently say it offers an excellent cleaning experience on various surfaces.
The adjustable suction with fingertip control makes it easy to fine-tune the cleaning power for both delicate and heavy-duty tasks, ensuring optimal performance.
Thanks to the multi-cyclonic system, durability and suction power remain reliable, with no loss of strength.
Indeed, the 1,200-watt motor has the power to tackle even the toughest cleaning jobs.
The large 3-liter dust bin and washable anti-allergen HEPA filter make this vacuum extremely practical for those with allergies and require minimal maintenance.
Its lightweight design, rubberized wheels, and maneuverability add to the overall user-friendly experience.
However, we noticed a few drawbacks during our use. The available attachments may not be suitable for all flooring types, particularly hardwood floors.
Tall users, beware – the vacuum’s hose could be short, making it uncomfortable during use.
Additionally, it may not be ideal for heavy vacuuming on all floor types, so customers should consider this when determining the best vacuum cleaner for their specific needs.
- ADJUSTABLE SUCTION MULTI-CYCLONIC SYSTEM: Completely adjustable suction with a fingertip control to fine-tune cleaning power for any job. 12+ Cyclones rapidly spin debris away from filter so suction power stays stronger, longer.
- LARGE CAPACITY AND HEPA FILTER: Empty less often with large three-liter bagless dust bin. Washable bowl and anti-allergen HEPA filter for low maintenance costs and thorough cleaning.
- POWERFUL MOTOR AND UNLIMITED RUNTIME: 1,200 Watts of cleaning power can be operated continuously and reliably with an easy to use rewindable cord.
- WASHABLE HEPA FILTER: Easily wash the Anti-Allergen HEPA Filter of captured dirt, dust, and pollens to leave your home sparkling clean!
- BOX INCLUDES: (1) Canister Vacuum, (1) Crevice Tool, (1) Small Brush, (1) Upholstery Tool
Hoover Commercial CH30000 PortaPOWER
The Hoover Commercial CH30000 PortaPOWER is a versatile and lightweight choice for those seeking a vacuum cleaner that can handle both large and tight spaces with ease.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Built-in blower for forced air cleaning
- Can be used with reusable cloth bag or paper dust bag
Cons
- Long cord can be cumbersome
- Hose may need stretching for better reach
- Suction power could be stronger for some tasks
We recently tried the Hoover CH30000 and were impressed by its versatility.
Weighing only 8 pounds, this canister vacuum cleaner is easy to carry and maneuver, making it perfect for cleaning jobs both big and small.
It features a 33-foot long cord, allowing us to cover large areas without constantly unplugging it.
One unique feature of the CH30000 is its built-in blower.
This came in handy for jobs that required forced air cleaning, like removing dust and debris from hard-to-reach places.
The vacuum cleaner can be used with either a reusable commercial cloth bag or a paper dust bag, allowing us to switch between cleaning tasks without worry.
However, we did find that the long cord could be cumbersome and difficult to manage at times.
Additionally, the hose might need some stretching to reach its full length and improve its ability to access tight spaces.
Lastly, while the suction power is sufficient for most tasks, some users may find it lacking when it comes to picking up larger debris or messes.
Eureka WhirlWind
Make your cleaning routine easier and efficient with this lightweight and versatile Eureka WhirlWind.
Pros
- Powerful suction for carpets and hard floors
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Bagless design with washable filters
Cons
- Floor brush may get clogged by hair and dirt
- Can get slightly warm while in use
- Hose length could be longer
We have been using the Eureka WhirlWind and it has become our go-to option for whole home cleaning.
The integrated airflow control on the handle makes it convenient to switch between different surfaces in your home.
With its lightweight design, swivel steering, and telescoping metal wand, it’s extremely easy to move around and reach tough spots.
One of the best features of this vacuum is its bagless design with washable filters.
This eliminates the need for buying bags or filters and makes maintenance simple. Just rinse the filters as needed, and you’re ready to continue vacuuming.
However, we did notice that the floor brush can get clogged by hair and dirt over time, so it’s essential to clean the roller brush and belt every couple of weeks.
Also, the vacuum can get a bit warm during usage, but that has not led to any issues so far.
Finally, although the cord is 16 feet long, we would prefer a slightly longer hose for more convenient reach.
- Innovative Multi-Surface vacuum: Deep clean with Eureka whirlwind canister vacuum. It features an integrated airflow control on the handle that can be easily switched at your fingertips. Suitable for carpet, upholstery and hard floors. 120 volts. 960W
- 2.5L dust container, no maintenance costs: No bags or filters required. The whirlwind has a Bagless design and uses washable filters. Rinse the filters as needed and you’re ready to go.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver: vacuum anywhere around your home with ease. This canister vacuum cleaner weighs 8.15 lbs and can easily maneuver under and around furniture and stairs thanks to its swivel steering and telescoping metal Wand.
- 2-In-1 integrated crevice tool: Eureka whirlwind canister vacuum features a crevice tool integrated into the hose handle. Easily disconnect the handle from the hose and then you can switch between a crevice tool and a dusting brush.
- Easy-to-use: Spend more time cleaning and less time struggling with your vacuum cleaner. The Eureka whirlwind has automatic cord Rewind, saving your valuable time. The whirlwind has a one-button release for easy dust cup emptying.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best canister vacuum cleaner, it’s important to consider various factors that can help you make an informed decision. In this guide, we’ll outline the key features and aspects you should pay attention to when choosing the perfect vacuum for your needs.
Firstly, consider the vacuum’s suction power. Strong suction is crucial for effectively picking up dirt and debris, so it’s vital to look for a vacuum with a powerful motor. Keep in mind that higher wattage doesn’t always equate to better suction – factors such as airflow and design can also impact the vacuum’s overall performance.
Next, think about the filtration system. A vacuum with an efficient filtration system will effectively trap dust, allergens, and other particles that can cause health issues, especially for those with allergies or asthma. Look for a vacuum with a HEPA filter, as these filters are designed to capture 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.
Don’t forget to consider the vacuum’s weight and size. A compact, lightweight vacuum is easier to maneuver and store, particularly in smaller spaces or multi-level homes. Additionally, an ergonomic handle and easy-to-reach controls can make vacuuming less taxing on your body.
Consider the type and variety of attachments included with the vacuum. Common attachments include:
- Crevice tool: For reaching tight corners and narrow spaces
- Dusting brush: For gently cleaning delicate surfaces
- Upholstery tool: For cleaning soft furnishings like sofas and curtains
Having these attachments means you can easily adapt your vacuum to different cleaning tasks and surfaces.
Lastly, make sure to research the vacuum’s bagged or bagless design. Both have their advantages and disadvantages:
Bagged | Bagless |
---|---|
Hygienic design (allergens are trapped in the bag) | Easy to empty (just remove the dust container) |
Requires purchasing replacement bags | No ongoing costs for bags |
Usually have larger dust capacities | May have smaller dust capacities |
Full bags can reduce suction power | Filter may require more frequent cleaning |
Weigh the pros and cons of each design and decide which is best suited for your specific needs and preferences. Remember that there’s no single perfect vacuum for everyone – your ideal choice will depend on your own cleaning requirements, home, and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I consider when choosing a canister vacuum?
When choosing a canister vacuum, consider factors such as suction power, filtration, attachments, noise level, weight, and price. The cleaning requirements of your home will determine the features that are most important to you. For instance, if you have pets, you may want a vacuum with strong suction and a brush specifically designed for pet hair. High-quality filtration is important for those with allergies, and noise level might be a priority for individuals living in small apartments.
Which canister vacuums are best for pet hair?
Some canister vacuums are specifically designed for homes with pets, featuring powerful suction, specialized pet hair brushes, and advanced filtration systems. Popular models for pet hair include Miele’s Cat & Dog series, Dyson’s Cinetic Big Ball Animal, and Kenmore’s Pet PowerMate canister vacuums. It’s crucial to research and compare different models to find the one that best suits your specific needs.
How do different canister vacuum models compare?
Different canister vacuum models compare in terms of suction power, filtration, attachments, maneuverability, and noise level. Top brands like Miele, Dyson, and Kenmore offer a range of models with various features and price points. It’s essential to assess your cleaning needs and compare different models in terms of capabilities and features that are important for your home.
What are the top-rated canister vacuum cleaners?
Top-rated canister vacuum cleaners include models from Miele, such as the Miele C1, C2, and C3 series; the Dyson Cinetic Big Ball, and Kenmore Elite series. These vacuums have received high ratings for their performance, durability, and features. Additionally, they often offer strong suction power, advanced filtration systems, and versatile attachments. However, ratings may vary depending on individual needs and preferences.
Which budget canister vacuums perform well?
Some budget-friendly canister vacuums that perform well are the Bissell Zing, Eureka Mighty Mite, and Hoover PortaPower. These models offer decent suction and basic features, providing a good cleaning performance for the price. It’s important to remember that budget vacuums may have some limitations compared to high-end models, so carefully consider your cleaning needs and expectations when selecting a budget vacuum.
Are bagless canister vacuums with powerheads worth it?
Bagless canister vacuums with powerheads can be worth the investment if you require powerful cleaning performance, especially for carpets or pet hair. Powerheads offer motor-driven brushes that can effectively lift dirt, debris, and pet hair from carpets. Additionally, bagless vacuums eliminate the need for purchasing replacement bags, potentially saving money in the long run. However, some people may prefer bagged vacuums for better filtration or reduced allergen exposure when emptying the dirt container.
How do I change the vacuum bag or empty the dirt canister on my canister vacuum?
Canister vacuums collect dirt and debris in either a bag or a removable canister/cup that needs periodic emptying or replacement. Check your manual for instructions on accessing the bag or canister and replacing or emptying it.
What maintenance does a canister vacuum require?
Basic canister vacuum maintenance includes changing bags/emptying dirt canisters, checking and replacing filters, inspecting the hose for clogs or damage, and replacing the brushroll if it becomes worn.
Hello!!! How do I clean the attachments and hose on my canister vacuum?
It’s important to regularly clean vacuum attachments and hoses to keep them clear of hair, dust and debris that can impede performance. Use the brush or crevice tool to clean inside the hose. Remove attachments and rinse/wipe them out with water. Allow all parts to fully air dry before reattaching.