Consumer Guide to Vacuum Cleaners

Considerations

• First and foremost, you need to look at what you expect your vacuum cleaner to do for you. If you need to carry your vacuum up and down stairs frequently or have limited arm strength, purchase a small, lightweight cleaner. Consider how loud the vacuum cleaner is and whether it is designated to work with pets or allergies.

Types of Vacuums

• The three main types of vacuums are canister style, uprights and central systems. An upright vacuum cleans a wider, larger path than other styles but requires that you push the entire vacuum while cleaning. Canister-style vacuums are more suited to clean drapes and stairs since they're so versatile. They're difficult to store because the various apparatuses are cumbersome. A central vacuum is the easiest style to use but also will cost the most amount of money.

Attachments

• Attachments improve the abilities of your vacuum cleaner. Specific attachments are suited to reach under furniture, up in corners to eliminate cobwebs, on drapes or to clean in deep crevices. Tools that come with vacuum cleaners typically include brushes for both upholstery and dusting, along with a specified crevice tool.

Bag Vs. Bagless

• Bagged vacuum cleaners have small holes that collect dirt and dust from the floor but allow the air to exit as the vacuum runs. The bag needs to be replaced everytime it fills up. A bagless vacuum cleaner collects dirt and dust in a canister, which you must empty every time it fills. Bagless cleaners have more filters in place to function.

Features

• Look at the features that the vacuum cleaner has, including a headlight for dark or dim areas and height adjustments for different carpet types. If you don't want to deal with tangled cords, purchase a vacuum with a retractable cord. If you need to protect yourself from additional pet dander or allergens, look into a vacuum cleaner with a built-in HEPA filter.