Buying a new vacuum cleaner is not something we do on a regular basis as a quality vacuum should last for a considerable period of time. What used to be an easy task in the past as most vacuum cleaners basically performed the same, with the wide variety of vacuums available today, there are lots of different styles, high tech features, and functions to take into consideration in order to make the right choice.
There are options for pet owners, allergy sufferers, and robot models featuring the latest technologies for busy people.
Here is a guide to help you make sense of all the options and how to finding the best vacuum cleaner for your cleaning requirements.
Do the Research
According to this website before buying a vacuum cleaner you should look at the basic components of the space you need to clean.
1. The size of your home is an important factor as larger homes require more powerful upright cleaners whereas a multi-level home with stairs will benefit more from the easy maneuverability of a stick vacuum.
2. A variety of different floor surfaces will need a vacuum cleaner that is easily adaptable for use on different types of floor surfaces like carpeting, tiles, and wooden floors.
3. The occupants of a home will also help determine the type of vacuum you will require. A large family with children and pets will require a powerful machine that can take care of a considerable amount of dirt, pet hair, and dander.
Once you have considered the three basic components on choosing the best vacuum cleaner for your needs, you can think about your personal lifestyle. Here is a list of some of the things to consider:
Frequency of Cleaning
If you like to vacuum every day you may only need a lightweight stick vacuum to maintain a clean home.
If you like to clean every day but dont have the time, you can consider a programmable robotic type vacuum that will do light vacuuming while you are away. Robotic vacuums are self-propelled, programmable machines that make use of sensors to navigate around obstacles. Some are small enough to clean underneath furniture and beds and can easily travel from hard surfaces to carpeting. When the program has been completed it automatically returns to its docking station to be re-charged.
However, if your cleaning schedule requires vacuuming your home once a week, you will need a large, upright or canister type with a more powerful motor for thorough cleaning.
Weight is an important factor as some powerful vacuum cleaners can weight up to 20 pounds or more. This may be a negative if you have a multilevel home that will require you to haul it up and down the stairs. In this case, a lightweight stick model will be more suitable.
If attachments and features are important to you, choose a model with innovative features and appropriate attachments for your requirements.
Noise is often an issue for people. If you live in an apartment where excessive noise may disturb your neighbors or you have an elderly or sick family member in your home you may want to consider the decibel levels of the machine. A vacuum with a decibel level between 60 65 dB will be significantly quieter than one with a dB level in the 70s.
If you are a pet owner you will want to choose a vacuum specifically designed to take care of pet hair and dander. Choose a motor with at least 12 amps of power, however, when it comes to pet hair, power is not always enough. Choose a model with special attachments like wider openings and specific brush patterns designed to reduce clogging.
If there are occupants in your home who suffer from seasonal allergies or sensitivities to dust mites, choose a cleaner that is HEPA certified. Change the filter at least every six months and more often if the allergies are severe. Some models have a removable, washable filter that will save you money.
Handheld vacuums are the smallest and lightest and are often cordless. They are convenient for cleaning upholstery, vents, drapes, blinds, windowsills, and removing cobwebs from hard-to-reach corners.
Lastly, you should decide whether you would like a bagged or bagless vacuum. A bagless vacuum will require you to empty the container yourself while a bagged version makes use of paper bags that can be disposed of then full. If you are prone to allergies it is best to choose a bagged version.
When buying a new vacuum cleaner you should check the reviews of the model you are considering on the web, written by people who review products for the purpose of comparing features and testing manufacturer claims. When looking at features and specifications it is helpful to look at product reviews that provide all the important information about the vacuum. It is also very helpful to find out what other buyers have said about the particular model and brand you are considering by reading customer reviews.