How to Make a Re-Useable Vacuum Cleaner Bag

If you are looking to save a few dollars as well as help the environment, there are various simple ways to do that.  One of these ways is something that most people wouldn't think of, but something that we all deal with regularly: our vacuum cleaner bags.  One way to save some money is to create a re-useable vacuum cleaner bag.  I have researched several different methods to doing this and have found the best and easiest way to do it.  The process of making one of these bags is very simple.  All you need to do is follow these steps.

1) Take a 6 or 7 inch long duct tape strip.  Tape this strip vertically to the wider side of a new vacuum cleaner bag.  This strip allows you to set the area that the vacuum's suction hose will end up inside when you empty the bag to re-use it.

2) Cut a slit along the length of the tape.  This slit should be in the center of the tape.  Approximately one inch on either end of the tape should remain uncut.  One trick to doing this without cutting through both sides of the bag is to get a little debris into the vacuum bag before cutting this, which will give you more room for error when cutting the bag.

3) Attach a small piece of duct tape to the two ends of the tape that were not cut.  This is done to reinforce the rest of the bag after that slit has been cut.

4) Take your roll of duct tape and fold a two inch strip back, creating a tab that can be pulled without getting your hands sticky.  Then tear off a strip of tape that includes this tab that is long enough to cover the slit you previously cut lengthwise.  Place this piece of tape directly over the slit, effectively closing it.

5) The process is now complete.  In order to re-use your bag, remove the piece of tape with the tab at the end and place your vacuum's suction hose through the slit and have it suck up all of the debris.  Whenever needed, replace the tabbed tape strip with a new one so that it will always have fresh adhesive.

This is worth trying on your own because it only takes a few minutes of your time and will save you time and money in the long run, as well as helping the environment.  If it doesn't work, you can make another one or decide it is not worth your time.