Hoover Vacuum Cleaner

Picking the Best Vacuum Cleaner For You

The vacuum cleaner has long been a friend of busy homemakers and tired office workers. It dates back to the 1800’s, when Daniel Hess created a “floor sweeper” with rotating brushes and a bellows to build suction. We’re not sure if he ever got a model working, but the patent got others thinking and innovations continue today.

Your vacuum cleaner will come in handy for many situations around your home. You’ll use it for “big” projects like spring cleaning and cleaning up as you get ready for a move. You’ll also use it for smaller projects - weekly cleaning, and if you have small children or pets you may find yourself using it daily.

It’s important to choose a vacuum cleaner that will stand up to what you need it to do. There are many options on the market and it can get a little confusing to figure out which one you need. Some of the many options include: upright vacuum, canister vacuum, bag-less vacuums, models that require a bag, HEPA filters, ultraviolet system… even shop vacs if you’re looking for something for the garage!

One of the first features you’ll want to consider is the vacuum’s filtration system. If you’re buying a shop vac or something else to be used in the garage, this may not be as much of a factor for you. However, you want a good filter on the vacuum you use in the house so the air in your home stays cleaner. Look for a good HEPA filtration system.

Ultraviolet systems are newer and generally only found on high-end vacuum models right now. If you’re caring for small children or fragile individuals such as preemies or an immune-compromised patient, look into getting one of these vacuums. The UV technology in these models will kill bacteria, viruses, mold, dust mites, and flea eggs that burrow down into your carpet. This can greatly increase the safety in your home for sensitive family members.

Decide if you’d like a canister or an upright model. In the end, this is really based on personal preference. Both types of vacuums will come with helpful accessories to help you get into hard-to-reach places.

My personal preference is for the canister vacuum. It’s a little harder to store because the hoses, tubes, and accessories don’t store neatly on the unit. The versatility from the canister helps make up for this fact, however. You’ll be able to more easily reach under furniture, and have a wide range of attachments to get hard-to-reach places like ceiling fans. Many canister vacuums also come with a nozzle for hard wood or linoleum floors. The cord retracts into these models making putting it away a little easier.

When you choose your vacuum model, make sure it’s suited for the floors you have in your home. Some vacuums are versatile and can handle all home surface. They come with different attachments and settings to clean every room. Others are more limited and won’t work well on hard floors. Some vacuums are designed more for short carpets in a business, so avoid those models for your thicker home carpet.

One final option in vacuum cleaners is the newer, automatic cleaners. These little vacuums are small robots that can be programmed to clean when you want them, and whatever rooms you’d like them to clean. They go about their task automatically and can go under furniture your regular vacuum wouldn’t be able to. They’re also trained to be sensitive to pets, children, and stairs. They can be a great option for many households.

Take a look at the needs of your home and family. Read plenty of consumer reviews when you narrow down your list to a few possibilities. Having an idea of how the vacuums you’re considering have performed “in real life” will pay off a lot in the long run.