Actually I would NOT suggest using a vaccum cleaner because of the static charges it may cause. Instead I would use compressed air from an oilless compressor or canned air spray, which can be purchased from any of the big box stores.
Using a vaccum cleaner can often cause static electricty, and if I remember correctly can actually cause voltages in excess of 40,000 volts. Make sure you ground yourself by using a grounding strap any time you open up your computer case.
Some of the newer computers actually use paper or metalic filters, much like those used on car intakes to the carbuerator or fuel injection intake on your vechicle. These filters can be cleaned outside of the the computer, using compressed air, a solvent, or be replaced at a minimal cost. As John 1930 said, If you are not certain about your actions seek professional help. Any time you open a computer case make sure you are grounded by using a static strap. Most newer computers are less affected by static voltage, but why take the chance?
The intakes are usually a series of holes or louvers in the side, front, or back of yor computer case. Do you have cats or dogs living in your home? It is unbelievable how much pet hair can end up inside your computer.
No matter what method you use to clean fan blades be sure to use you finger to keep the fan blade from spinning using the vaccum or compressed air method. If you don't you will hear a whurring sound, if you do hear that sound you can be pretty much certain you fried the bearings in the fan. I have made this mistake in the past.
I don't know how many fans your computer contains, but you might want to consider replacing your CPU and big draw fan. They are relatively inexpensiive and the bearings and/or shaft bushings often fail and computer cooling takes a big hit.
Hope this might be helpful.
J. R.
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