Vacuum cleaner defoamer: types of products and rules for use + the best manufacturing companies

What is a defoamer and what is it for?

To begin with, let's deal with the designation of the word defoamer. Foam extinguisher is a liquid or powder agent based on chemical components. The main task is to extinguish the resulting foam during the operation of the vacuum cleaner.

Some users, using washing liquid when working with a vacuum cleaner, do not even think about foam-extinguishing agents, but in vain. You can purchase a special foam absorber, or you can change it. How to replace the defoamer? Let's take a look below.

When cleaning the washing vacuum cleaner, fine dust enters the soapy water, and the foamy liquid begins to increase in size.The longer you clean the room, the faster the foamy liquid forms. And there comes a moment when the foamy liquid reaches the filters that protect the engine. The filter becomes wet, cleaning is difficult, the filter becomes dirty, an unpleasant odor appears. This process can occur up to the multiplication of bacteria on the filter and the formation of fungus. But foamy liquid can adversely affect engine performance. If moisture gets into the engine, it may simply stop working.

After use, be sure to rinse the plastic container, engine filter, air filter. Timely care will prevent possible damage to the home assistant.

So use defoamers and keep an eye on the performance of your vacuum cleaner. People who have ever used special liquids for washing vacuum cleaners and solutions that extinguish foam are very satisfied.

What are defoamers?

Chemical agents for extinguishing foam are used together with washing liquid. Foam extinguishers are available in liquid and powder form. By chemical composition they are divided into:

• based on silicone
• based on organic oils

Silicone-based foam solution extinguishers are more popular, cheaper, and more readily available. Their composition mainly contains silicon dioxide and silicone ingredient, flavors, softeners. Each manufacturer changes the proportions of the composition of the liquid and the name.

Organic-based foam extinguishers are less popular. For their manufacture, a more complex formula and a huge number of components are used. Therefore, not all manufacturers undertake their manufacture. Organic defoamers are considered safer for human health and young children, as well as for pets.Foam extinguishers based on organic components are several times more expensive than the previous type.

Rating of the best defoamers

The list of the best anti-foam formulations includes both local and foreign manufacturers. The rating is based on data on the demand for a certain type of product.

FoamStop Fructasia by Karcher

The German brand Karcher keeps an eye on innovations in the field of cleaning technologies.

Pros:

• Economical - one 125 ml bottle is enough for about 70 cleanings. For 2 liters of water you only need 2 ml of FoamStop Fructasia.
• Hypoallergenic - suitable for people prone to allergic reactions.
• Pleasant aroma - has an unobtrusive citrus smell.
• Versatility - suitable for all types of equipment with an aquafilter.

Minuses:

High price - one bottle of FoamStop Fructasia will cost 500-700 rubles.

Huber Schaumstopp

Huber Schaumstopp helps the equipment to keep the dust suction power at a high level.

Pros:

• Release in two volumes - 1 liter. and 125 ml.
• Safety - Huber Schaumstopp's environmental friendliness is confirmed by certificates of conformity.
• Low price - volume 1 liter. costs about 1600 rubles, and the volume of 125 m - about 250 rubles.

Minuses:

Lack of versatility - Huber Schaumstopp focuses mainly on equipment from Zelmer and Karcher. However, it can also be used for equipment of other brands. In this regard, it is advisable to consult with a specialist.

Grass antifoam

The Russian brand Grass produces its own defoamer, which is positioned as a direct analogue of FoamStop Fructasia from Karcher.

Pros:

• Versatility - Grass Antifoam can be used for all types of equipment requiring foam suppression.
• Low price - in comparison with the original, Grass Antifoam is several times cheaper. So, a bottle of 250 ml. will cost 150-300 rubles.

Minuses:

After use, streaks remain on the walls of the water tank. However, this is easily solved with a damp sponge.

ACG Antifoam

Russian ACG Antifoam is produced by home care professionals. The brand specializes in the production of chemicals for cleaning companies.

Pros:

• Versatility - ACG Antifoam can be used for all models of washing vacuum cleaners, as well as for other types of equipment with an aqua filter.
• It can be used in conjunction with acid and alkaline detergents without affecting their cleaning ability.
• Low price - 1 liter bottle. costs 200-300 rubles.

Minus:

Lack of economy - 1 liter bottle. will run out within 3-4 months of use.

Rein Antifoam Agent

Rein specializes in the production of chemicals for professional home cleaning.

Pros:

• Economic consumption - one bottle of Rein Antifoam Agent with a volume of 1 liter. enough for one and a half to two years of constant use.
• Increases the cleaning power of acid-base cleaning fluids.

Minuses:

• High price - 1 liter bottle. costs 600-800 rubles.
• The surfactants in Antifoam Agent may cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals.

The most famous means

As already mentioned before, the composition of all products is approximately the same, but any manufacturer is trying to add some kind of his own “piquancy” in order to create his own product that is optimal on the market.
The leader among manufacturers of both vacuum cleaners with water filters and defoamers is Karcher.The tool is available in the form of a liquid, it is not cheap, but it is also consumed practically. Enough for about 70 uses.
"Penta-480". It has a low cost, but is sold only in canisters of 5 liters. For owners of small apartments, this is not very convenient, since it will take several years to keep this tub, and it is unlikely that it will be possible to use it before the expiration date. Thomas. It is much cheaper than Karcher. Recommended for use by owners of Thomas vacuum cleaners.

How to make a defoamer with your own hands

As it was written above, making a defoamer with your own hands at home is not difficult. And here are some working methods:

1. Salt. The easiest way to prevent strong foam formation in the vacuum cleaner filter is to use salt. A tablespoon of table salt should be added to the detergent solution.
2. Vinegar essence. This method repeats the previous one, only the salt is replaced with vinegar essence. It is necessary to drop several times into the solution, and literally immediately the foaming will decrease. Add half a tablespoon.
3. Soda, sunflower oil. If you add a spoonful of soda and a little vegetable oil to an aqueous solution, then the foam will become much less. The most important thing is to remember to thoroughly rinse the filter after that, because the oil will leave greasy marks in it.
4. Salt, starch and vegetable oil. For those who want to get rid of foam altogether, a special method has been developed. It is required to add salt, oil and starch to the detergent, and then the solution will not foam.

Thus, the defoamer is an important component of the vacuum cleaner.Of course, you can do without this mixture, but then you will either have to not use soapy solutions, or buy vacuum cleaners with special dust collectors

You will find more interesting information on this topic in the Vacuum Cleaner section of our portal.

Defoamer from improvised means

Additional expenses always lead to the fact that people are trying to reduce these very costs to a minimum. Since the introduction of vacuum cleaners that require the use of defoaming fluids, several options have been devised to replace the defoamer for a vacuum cleaner.

Salt. Salt water prevents foaming.
Sunflower oil, stabilizes the foam, prevents it from “creeping out” from the water container. However, after using the vacuum cleaner, the water tank has to be washed with detergents to get rid of greasy deposits.
Starch binds foam molecules, making the waves smoother, slowing down its formation.
Vinegar or vinegar essence. Vinegar needs half a tablespoon, essence just a few drops. Interferes with process of foaming. In addition to folk remedies, some tricks are known to avoid foam getting into the vacuum cleaner filter.

Some of the most common ways:
Since only very fine dust causes increased foaming, at the lowest speed, with the plug on the vacuum cleaner handle open, the carpet is carefully vacuumed. After fine dust is collected, turn on the vacuum cleaner at full power and collect larger particles;
Filling the water container to one third of the volume

We'll have to control the volume, top up. But the foam will not overflow into the filter (in theory);
Frequent, several times in one cleaning, changing the water in the vacuum cleaner.

Consumers using vacuum cleaners with aquafilters claim that foam is formed only during the first time the unit is used, and this happens even with a defoamer. After some time of active use of the vacuum cleaner, the foam does not form so intensively, and you can not use additional funds to pay it off.

The amount of foam also depends on the detergent used in the washing unit. If you use the usual Vanish for carpets, Fairy, Amway and the like, then of course there will be a lot of foam. You can buy special products for washing vacuum cleaners that do not form foam. True, they are all well worth it. The most famous manufacturers of detergents for vacuum cleaners are Karcher, Whirlpool, Lines and Cid.

By the way, the defoamer must not be used in all vacuum cleaners with an aquafilter. Only a number of models from each manufacturer should be operated with foam extinguishing agents. Specify the models for which the purchase of additional liquids is necessary immediately from the seller.

Some manufacturers use special foam suppression devices in their vacuum cleaners. Thomas has developed a defoaming grid for some models.

Varieties

In addition to disposable and reusable, models can be universal. They help in solving the problem of replacing the dust collector in a comprehensive manner. Not all firms produce only original goods. There are manufacturers who produce bag options suitable for different vacuum cleaners. And also such dust bags are selected for very old devices, when it is no longer possible to select replacement bags of the desired sample.

Universal bags for a vacuum cleaner are distinguished by specialized mounts.Similar packages can be used under vacuum cleaners of different brands. It happens that bags for more expensive devices can be replaced with suitable products of low cost. For example, Siemens packages are suitable for Bosch, Karcher and Scarlett brands.

Disposable

These packages are also called interchangeable. They have higher filtration characteristics and better hypoallergenicity. These products not only trap dust, but also trap bacteria and pathogens. Large volumes of bags allow you to look less often inside the vacuum cleaner body. Full tightness allows you to extend the performance of the external filter. Replacement products are positioned as exceptionally durable, they tolerate contact with wet litter particles.

reusable

For these bags, interlining or other synthetic fabric is used. The strength of these bags is higher due to moisture-resistant impregnation. Bags are not deformed from contact with sharp cutting objects. Inside you can easily collect construction debris and fine dust. Such bags are considered economical to use, as they require only periodic cleaning. After a few knocks, they begin to hold dust poorly.

Sometimes there is active activity of microorganisms. Reusable bags are installed in many models of vacuum cleaners. Thus, manufacturers give a choice. Disposable dust bags can be purchased independently. Often, a reusable option is offered as a spare when it is not possible to pick up the necessary original kits.

Selection Tips

Before choosing a shampoo or powder detergent for a washing vacuum cleaner, you need to carefully study the composition and instructions for use. For certain types of coatings, specialized tools have been developed.Some cleaners indicate in small print which floorings they can't be used on, even though the front of the label says "universal cleaner" in large letters.

Depending on the manufacturer, the composition of the cleaning agent may vary, but several components remain unchanged. The quality of any product is determined primarily by its ability to quickly eliminate stains and odors. With all this, washing equipment must maintain its performance, so careful operation of the device is not the last place. Zelmer shampoos can be singled out as one of the best products, which not only cope with dirt and unpleasant odors, but also allow deep cleaning in the seams on laminated, stone and any other surface.

Among the main features of a high quality cleaning agent, the following can be distinguished.

• High speed of action on stains, while not much foam should form, and after cleaning there should be no streaks on the floor.
• A quality product should be able to cope with any standard contamination, including grease, while demonstrating antistatic and disinfectant properties.
• It is better if the product includes a water softener. It helps to extend the life of the equipment, while not affecting the quality of cleaning.
• After a detailed study of the composition of the product, it should not contain harmful chlorine, ammonia.

A professional can advise when buying any cleaning product to be guided by three indicators:

• efficiency;
• environmental friendliness;
• frugality.

If the powder contains components that help soften water, it will help to avoid the formation of plaque in the technique.Extra care allows you to increase the life of the vacuum cleaner

Be sure to pay attention to foaming. The lower this indicator, the better the cleaning will be, it will be more convenient to wash off the powder. It is necessary to take into account the disinfectant component

Antibacterial solution helps to qualitatively cope not only with mold, but also with bacteria

Be sure to take into account the disinfectant component. An antibacterial solution helps to qualitatively cope not only with mold, but also with bacteria.

If the packaging indicates that the product has antistatic properties, then it is able to repel dust particles, respectively, the floor will stay clean longer. On the shelves of stores there are numerous shampoos for washing floors, among which there are concentrated and liquid products. The former are much more economical, since a small amount of shampoo is required for one cleaning.

Efficiency

To understand the effectiveness of shampoo, it is worth highlighting the most important selection criteria. The shampoo or powder itself should soften the water. Initially hard water will lead to plaque buildup, which will eventually lead to vacuum cleaner repairs. The second mandatory requirement is the presence of antibacterial and disinfectant properties.

This is especially important if there are allergy sufferers in the house.

To avoid having to clean rooms too often with a robot vacuum cleaner, you need to use compounds with antistatic properties. After cleaning, dust and dirt will be repelled from the cleaned surface.

If the purchased shampoo initially releases a lot of foam, then you will need to additionally purchase a defoamer.You can check the effectiveness of the composition and understand whether the coating will be harmed by testing. To do this, it is worth checking the tool in a hidden place. The high-quality composition does not leave behind visible traces, and there cannot be a sharp unpleasant odor.

Selection Tips

Any bag - fabric or paper - is a garbage collection device. It is filled with collected debris along with air masses. It is precisely because of the air currents that the container is most often permeable: otherwise the garbage bags would immediately burst when the first air masses entered. The permeability of any garbage bags, single or reusable, decreases as they are filled. Air currents waste their power due to the appearance of obstacles that need to be overcome.

If the vacuum cleaner is initially equipped with a paper-type dust collector and HEPA filters, you should not replace the product with a reusable one: such a replacement is fraught with the appearance of harmful organisms. If your unit equipped with a HEPA filter works with a reusable bag, the organisms accumulated inside will spread throughout the room: the synthetic bag and filter will not hold harmful particles.

If the model in a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter is reusable, it is recommended to wash it after each use. However, even in this case, reusable bags will not be 100% cleaned. Over time, your vacuum cleaner can become the source of an unpleasant odor due to mold and damp build-up inside.

So that buying a bag does not turn out to be a thoughtless and wasteful waste of money, pay attention to the following points:

• filtration quality is better in multilayer products;
• the volume of the bag is individual and is selected depending on the characteristics of the vacuum cleaner;
• The product must match your vacuum cleaner model.

It is believed that the average lifespan of a regular replacement trash bag is about 6 weeks. Bags for German Bosch vacuum cleaners are distinguished by increased density. They are made from dense non-woven fabric, which allows you to collect construction debris: wood chips, concrete particles, sharp objects. Even the glass inside such a bag is not capable of violating its integrity.

Models LD, Zelmer, Samsung are considered inexpensive products. Models have quality certificates, are equipped with filtration systems that are suitable for cleaning residential premises. Samsung has been presenting its products for more than 20 years. The cost of products varies from 5 to 10 dollars. You can find options even for older models of vacuum cleaners. Philips recommends its products as being as easy to use as possible. Even reusable models of the manufacturer provide reliable protection against dust. The cost of the bags is quite democratic.

Can I make my own defoamer?

Foam extinguishing agent can be made from improvised means available in every home. There are several ways to extinguish foam from improvised home remedies. How to make a defoamer with your own hands:

1. Salt. Just add salt to a container of water, it prevents foaming.
2. Sunflower oil and a spoonful of soda stabilizes the formation of foam and prevents it from crawling over the edges of the container. There is a significant drawback of the application - cleaning the container. To clean the container, you will have to use dishwashing detergent or detergent to remove greasy deposits.
3. Vinegar. Add half a tablespoon or a few drops of vinegar essence to the water, vinegar prevents the formation of abundant foam.

In addition to adding special substances to the water, some technical possibilities can be practiced:

• Abundant formation of foam solution will not occur if you clean rooms with an open plug on the handle and at the lowest power. After collecting all the dust, you can turn on the max mode and further clean the room.
• Frequent water tank changes. But this option is not entirely rational.
• Filling the container to 1/3 of the total volume. But this will lead to constant monitoring of the water level and adding water for stable operation.

According to users, the foam solution in washing vacuum cleaners is formed in the first minutes of cleaning, then it stabilizes. Even with the use of a foam solution extinguisher, the formation of a small amount of foam solution cannot be avoided.

The amount of foam solution formed mainly depends on the detergent preparation. If you buy cheap cleaning solutions Vanish, Amway and others, then more foam will form. It is best to purchase specialized products that form a small amount of foam solution or do not form it at all. But they are not very popular due to their price. The most popular and well-known manufacturers of cleaning solutions are: Karcher, Whirlpool and others.

Not all models of washing machines should be used with defoamers. This information should be clarified in advance in the characteristics or ask the seller. But the defoamer for the Karcher vacuum cleaner is especially popular. It has a good price-quality ratio.

For example, some Thomas models have a special grate for foam dissipation.

Varieties

Steam cleaners can be equipped with:

Vertical models of vacuum cleaners with steam generators are called steam mops. They are more compact than standard vacuum cleaners and are easy to use.

In addition to the location of the steam generator, vacuum cleaners of this category are also divided according to their purpose:

• Manual. Bought for home use. With their help, it is easy to clean windows, mirrors and car interiors. The small size of the handheld devices makes them light in weight. Standard models weigh no more than two kilograms. The manual version does not require searching for storage space - it will fit in any corner. The disadvantage of such devices is their low power. They can't handle cleaning the apartment.
• Compact. Suitable for cleaning large areas due to high power. Included with the device are brushes for soft textures (upholstery, curtains, carpet, etc.) and nozzles for problem areas (crevices, baseboards). Externally, compact steam cleaners are no different from standard models. The devices move along the floor, and the convenience of their use depends on the length of the cord.
• Professional. They belong to the premium segment, because they have advanced parameters. They are used to clean huge (by home standards) areas, such as warehouses, offices. Professional units work with hot and cold steam. They are large and unsuitable for cleaning in the apartment. This category is distinguished by high price and advanced functionality.

Defoamers from different manufacturers, or which one is better?

Each company that manufactures washing machines produces special solutions for extinguishing foam. For example, a solution for a zelmer washing vacuum cleaner can be purchased at a zelmer store.The most popular manufacturers: Karcher; Zelmer; Thomas; Biomol; Penta-480.

Karcher produces the most expensive consumables and accessories for their devices. The Karcher foam extinguisher is the most expensive. But if for some reason you do not want to buy a Karcher defoamer, then you can always purchase a tool from any other company.

• FoamStop from Karcher is available in bottles. This solution will cost approximately 500 rubles. It is used sparingly, only 2 ml per 2 liters of water. One bottle is enough for about six months or 70 cleanings. The capacity of the bottle is 125 ml. FoamStop liquid is suitable not only for Karcher devices, but also for other washing vacuum cleaners.
• Zelmer defoamer, article A6190165.00, will also cost 400-500 rubles. Sold in containers of 90 ml. Also used sparingly. But this solution is harder to find in stores, but it can be ordered in online stores, then the price will be slightly lower.
• Thomas makes a special shampoo for washing machines. Model 787502 ProTex. Produced in bottles with a capacity of 1 liter. The price is approximately 600 rubles. The manufacturer thomas recommends that only their special solutions be used.
• Biomol is a product of Ukrainian production. Available in two variations - bottles of 1 liter and 5 liters. The price is better to check with the manufacturer, because it depends on the quantity of goods. Consumers highlight good quality, reasonable prices and availability.
• Penta - 480 is sold only in bulk tanks. It is poured into canisters with a capacity of 5 liters. The price for it is up to 1 thousand rubles. The shelf life of the product is not more than 2 years. Initially, it may seem like a bargain, but economical consumption suggests otherwise.No more than 1 liter will be consumed per year, and you simply will not have time to use the entire solution before the end of the shelf life.
• And another not very popular brand, but only gaining momentum Buzil Defoam, the product is made in Germany. The manufacturer claims that this solution is suitable for any washing machine with a water filter. A special concentrated product that requires further dilution with water. Produced in bottles with a capacity of 1 liter. The lid of the vial is equipped with a dispenser. The price is about 350 - 450 rubles.

Manufacturers advise the use of defoamers when operating water vacuum cleaners with a filter. And it is also necessary to use products when cleaning very dusty rooms, when cleaning dusty carpets and even furniture. For the first time after the purchase, a defoamer is necessarily used, and after 6 months of operation, the reduction in foam formation occurs on its own.

It is sometimes possible to clean rooms without the use of cleaning solutions and defoamers by adding clean water to a plastic container.

Particular attention should be paid to the plastic dust container and filter. When a foam solution or drops of water get on the filter, they become very dirty, seedlings of microbes and even fungi are formed.

And then vacuuming will not be so clean.

Expensive materials pay for themselves only in those cases when they protect the household appliance from breakage. The manufacturer assures that it is necessary to use a defoamer. But most housewives have their own opinion. You can save on buying additional accessories, but if the foam harms the engine, then repairing the motor will greatly affect the wallet.

Shampoo Rating

Shampoos that are in demand belong to the following brands:

• Topperr.
• Top House.
• magic power.

• Thomas.
• Vanish.
• Filtero.

Organic brands are less common due to inaccessibility and higher cost, but also have a place on the market.

Thomas ProTex M

Thomas brand shampoos were developed for vacuum cleaners, which she owns. But they are combined with other washing vacuum cleaners due to their versatility.

The product is suitable for cleaning the following materials:

• Carpeting (all types).
• Soft upholstery.

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) trim.
• Floor coverings (parquet, laminate, tiles).

Among the strengths of Thomas ProTex M, users highlight:

• Moisture resistant.
• Non-toxic compound.

Magic power

The German brand is engaged in the manufacture of universal low-foaming shampoos. Due to its composition, the shampoo copes with dirt and pathogenic bacteria, fungi, mold. In addition to cleaning the room, the product acts on the sources of unpleasant odors and neutralizes them.

Customers prefer Magic Power for the following reasons:

• Economical consumption (the product is diluted with water in a ratio of 1:8).
• Compatibility with all washing vacuum cleaners.

TOP House

The shampoo belongs to another German manufacturer that manufactures components for vacuum cleaners. Concentrates are sold in standard one liter packs. Effectively cleans surface dirt and prevents dust from sticking due to antistatic properties. The product is safe for adults, children and pets.

The advantages of TOP House shampoo include:

• Refreshing paint on surfaces to be cleaned.
• Neutralization of unpleasant odors.

Topperr

The hallmark of the Topperr brand is the absence of phosphates in the composition of its products.Universal shampoo equally effectively interacts with all surfaces. Available in liquid form and combines antistatic and anti-allergic properties. Detergent is sold in liter containers. One package is enough for 1-2 months of constant use.

Topperr benefits include:

• The absence of chlorine, phosphates, bleaches and fragrances ensures hypoallergenicity.
• Exclusion of the risk of failure of the vacuum cleaner during the cleaning process.

Vanish

The manufacturer Vanish is well known to the Russian buyer.

The composition of shampoos of this brand contains the following components:

• Surfactants of anionic and nonionic nature.
• Oxygen based bleach.

• Aroma enhancers.
• Polycarboxylates.

Vanish shampoo occupies a leading position in the market due to:

• Economical expense.
• The absence of phosphates in the composition.

filtero

Shampoos of the Belgian brand Filtero belong to the budget price segment. Some are sold in half-liter containers and are slowly consumed due to concentration. Two caps of the product is enough to dilute in five liters of water. Even with constant cleaning, one package is enough for several months of use.

The strengths of Filtero are:

• Active granules that penetrate the carpet pile and remove dirt.
• Color restoration system.

Organic Carpet Cleaner

The manufacturer's shampoos are designed for people with allergic diseases. This concentrate has an organic formula. The inclusion of chemicals is minimal - they are contained in the amount that is necessary to combat dirt. The concentrate is suitable for all types of surfaces and gently cleanses soft tissues.

Organic Carpet Cleaner has the following benefits:

• Gentle effect on the skin.
• Cleaning the air while cleaning.