Someone I know has another friend who recently told my friend that she purchased the perfect vacuum and that my friend should buy one too. Maybe it’s happened to you too. Before we even think about the type of floors our friend might have, we look up that vacuum up on the internet. But since none of us have the same home it doesn’t make sense that we consider a vacuum for ourselves that is perfect for someone else. Whether you realize it or not a vacuum is a very important appliance for your home. It deserves some thought and research before you buy it. Here are a few tips to help you chose the best vacuum cleaner for your home.
What type of vacuum cleaner do you want
Different personalities like different types of vacuums. Upright people are pushy – meaning they like to push things around. They don’t like the idea of dragging something around behind them. Canister people don’t like the weight of an upright and prefer to just handle the pipe and hose. They don’t mind something following behind them. Decide which type of vacuum you prefer and shop for that style of vacuum.
Is weight an issue
If you have a bad back or shoulder issues, don’t even consider a heavier vacuum. But remember that the weight of the vacuum is directly related to the vacuum’s suction. Light weight vacuums are easy to use but don’t have very big motors. Heavier vacuums have large motors and great suction, but will be difficult for you to use. Decide whether you prefer a light weight vacuum or one that has great suction. Unfortunately, you can’t have both. At least not in the same unit.
The best way to clean hardwood floors
For hard wood floors, you might consider a canister vacuum. The soft floor brush that comes with a canister is the absolute best way to clean a hardwood floor. You won’t even need to use a dry mop after using this type of attachment. The bristles of the floor brush work incredibly well at picking up dirt and hair and will leave the floor looking perfect.
If you have allergies
Everyone loves the convenience and cost savings of a bagless vacuum cleaner, but think twice about purchasing one if you have dust allergies. Dumping the dirt container exposes you to concentrated amounts of allergens and dust mites. You would need to use a mask and gloves to avoid being exposed to all those allergens. Another little known fact about bagless vacuums is that the filters need to be replaced every 6 to 12 months to keep them working efficiently. This can cost up to $60 for each filter change, depending on the model of the vacuum. These costs are an important consider when you chose the right vacuum.
If you have pets
If you have pet hair, you need to have a very aggressive beater bar in your powerhead. Look for very stiff bristles on the beater bar along with incredible suction power to suck up the hair and dander in your carpet.
Stairs
The right vacuum for stairs should have a hose attachment that can reach at least ¾ of the way up a staircase. You don’t want to be fighting with a heavy, cumbersome vacuum while cleaning your stairs.
Reach
Manufacturers call this a “cleaning radius”. A canister vacuum can clean up to 35 feet from the plug in the wall. A vacuum’s cleaning radius should be something to consider before making your purchase. The information should be listed in the manufacturers details of the vacuum. Nothing is more frustrating than finding your new vacuum won’t reach where you need it to clean.
HEPA filtration
If you deal with allergies, you want to choose a vacuum with a HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arrestance) filter. You especially want a HEPA rated vacuum if you or a family member has severe dust allergies. The best HEPA vacuum has a sealed system meaning that there are no leaks in the entire system. Watch out for the labels HEPA-type or HEPA-like. These are vague ratings and don’t actually mean the vacuum is rated HEPA. A real HEPA filter removes allergens down to .03 microns. The technical specifications on the vacuum will tell you the filter’s efficiency.
Research the repair records
Some manufacturers don’t even supply repair parts for their appliances. Do a little research on the different models you are considering. You don’t want to have to purchase a new vacuum just because of a minor (but un-doable) repair on your old one.
Your vacuum is an investment
Choose the right vacuum for your home. People spend more on a week’s groceries than they do on their vacuum cleaner. Yet they get frustrated when it doesn’t work correctly. There are quality vacuums on the market that will last decades for a small investment. These models are worth the extra money. You may save a few dollars with a disposable model, but over the years you will save hundreds of dollars by purchasing a good quality vacuum. And, your home will also be cleaner and your health better protected.
Leslie Reichert is a cleaning expert that uses her sparkling personality, great sense of humor and contagious passion to encourage her fans and followers to think differently about what they are using in their homes. Leslie is known as a Green Cleaning Coach and she is changing the world – “one spray bottle at a time”. She is a national lecturer, a frequent homekeeping expert on The Dr. Oz Show, Martha Stewart Living Radio, Maid Brigade’s DIY Cleaning Expert and author of the book: The Joy Of Green Cleaning– a handbook for DIY cleaners. She works with Better Homes and Gardens, Real Simple, Today.com and other national publications. You can see more of her work at www.greencleaningcoach.com
