Most likely one or the other happened and the cloth bag is just fine. Vacuum inside of cloth bag, put in a new disposable inner bag and the vacuum cleaner should be just fine.

I do have news for you, Oreck bags are expensive and can only be found at an Oreck store.

Once you have a new disposable bag and it becomes full, cut off bottom, empty, then fold up 2 times, staple or machine stitch, or clip tight back together. Keep doing this until you are forced to buy a new bag. Be sure the closure will not leak dust into the cloth bag.

Krissie

Thanks, Krissie. Good, I was not inclined to drop 60 bucks without trying first. Next question: do we even have a vacuum we can use to clean the vacuum?!
Love your tip about reusing bags. You are a kindred spirit.
Marie

I would try to save it. My Orecks' are the best vacuum I have ever, ever used!

If you do not have another vacuum cleaner to clean the one that needs cleaning, use a paint brush to dust all areas possible to remove dust. If possible, turn the cloth bag wrong side out and brush off dust/dirt.

Be sure and do this outside to avoid dust from scattering everywhere.