It's safe to say that very few dwellings, no matter how small, don't have a vacuum cleaner. In houses with several levels and different types of flooring, there may even be more than one such device, and in small apartments, a universal model is enough.
As a rule, working with a vacuum cleaner is very simple - you just need to turn it on and move it over the carpet. The best models also clean floors and filter the air to keep dust particles out of your lungs. Complete with them offer accessories for cleaning furniture, stairs, baseboards, corners and recesses.
Finding the best model
How to choose a vacuum cleaner for your home? According to the rating of experts and reviews of ordinary owners. In addition to or in place of the large upright model, users may need a small area cleaner or trash picker between regular cleaning days. Floor models are equipped with flexible hoses and thintubes that allow you to clean under beds or on stairs. Cordless and handheld vacuum cleaners are often used for faster, more localized cleaning, such as cleaning small, dry dirt, eliminating the need for a bulky upright. It is more profitable to have them than to order the services of cleaning companies.
What are the parameters to choose a vacuum cleaner for the home? The ideal model should have the following components:
- Anti-allergenic filter. Even non-allergic people benefit from breathing air that is free of particles and dust smaller than conventional filters can hold.
- Easy to clean. With or without a bag, the vacuum cleaner should be easy to free from debris, and this process should not be accompanied by dust flying in all directions.
- Washable, reusable filters. Most filters can be replaced and should be replaced from time to time, but they should be of a type that can be easily rinsed and washed while maintaining high cleaning efficiency.
- Long power cord. Without it, users have to change outlets frequently, which is very inconvenient. Most upright models have cord lengths of at least 7m, and some are longer than 10m.
- Long hose. A good set of accessories is difficult to use if the hose is too short. This also causes the vacuum cleaner to tip over frequently.
- Telescopic tubes. They are useful for cleaning baseboards, ceiling fans and removing cobwebs.
- Powerful motor. How to choose a powerful vacuum cleaner for your home? Suction force straightrelated to engine performance. Most vertical models have 1.2 kW motors. The most productive ones are equipped with 1.5 kW motors, which is due to the standard (previously 6-ampere) maximum current limit for the outlet. But, as a rule, vacuum cleaners are much more modest. On average, their power is about 500 watts.
- Light weight. The upright vacuum cleaner, which weighs about 14 kg, is difficult to move, especially when cleaning stairs. In general, the weight of different models can vary greatly.
Things to consider
How to choose a good vacuum cleaner for a home with allergy sufferers? HEPA filters remove most of the allergens and fine particles from the air better than other brands of accessories. Models with sealed filtration systems and bags are also helpful for allergy sufferers as they keep dust and debris out of the air.
Does the house have stairs? If so, and you plan to clean it regularly, then you need a light vacuum cleaner or an apparatus that can be converted from vertical to floor or manual, so that you do not have to drag a 14-kilogram car along with you. In addition, some models for such places have special tools.
Do pet hair need cleaning? This is one of the biggest problems for vacuum cleaner manufacturers. Few models have attachments specifically designed for picking up after furry friends, such as a ridged rubber roller that picks up fur from upholstery.
What types of surfacesneed to be cleaned? Not all vacuum cleaners do the same job cleaning carpets, and some of them are worse at cleaning hard surfaces. If you have both carpet and hard floors, you will need to manually adjust the brush height to improve the performance of the upright model.
Flexibility issues? Manual height adjustment and other controls require bending and manual dexterity. If you have problems with your joints or spine, it is better to purchase a vacuum cleaner with controls located on the handle.
Tactics and buying strategy
Before you choose a vacuum cleaner for your home, you should look for special offers. Vertical models can be quite expensive, and even some of the more expensive machines don't come with a HEPA filter as standard. However, vendors sometimes offer it as a free add-on.
Better to buy last year's models. Manufacturers often change the name of their products, but apart from a few minor tweaks (often cosmetic), the design remains the same. Therefore, before choosing a vacuum cleaner for the home, you should familiarize yourself with the versions of previous years, which are much cheaper.
Model number matters. Many manufacturers sell similar vacuum cleaners under different names. The difference is often in the accessory kit, or the number is associated with a particular seller to make it difficult for the buyer to compare purchases. Therefore, before choosing a vacuum cleaner for the home, you must sacrifice your time to clarify this issue. It's worth the maximumspend your money efficiently.
Coordination of accessories. Just because the vacuum cleaner doesn't come with the necessary accessories doesn't mean they can't be obtained. You can talk to the seller, compare offers from other stores and ask for a few extra items.
Cost of equipment
Regardless of the type of vacuum cleaner, there is always a need for filters or bags. With daily use, running costs can become significant. There are several manufacturers offering bags for many of the models available at a lower price. However, you should be careful because they can be made from cheaper materials. If the original bags are highly filtered, choosing a replacement means giving up clean air.
Buying in bulk online is another cost-cutting option.
Vertical Models
When deciding which vacuum cleaner for the home is better to choose, first of all, you should pay attention to vertical models. According to reviews, they are generally the most suitable devices for removing dust and dirt from carpets and can clean large areas quickly. They are also good for floors and parquet.
Vertical models are single-engine and twin-engine. In the first case, the brush roller and vacuum are created by one motor, and in the second case they are different, which provides better cleaning of carpets and increased power of a vacuum cleaner for the home. How to choose the most suitable model if they come in different styles andsizes? Preference should be given to those that provide the following functionality:
- Brush extension to help protect the floor surface.
- Height adjustment of the head. Some models allow you to change it when switching to different types of coatings, without bending over. Others give you the ability to control it manually, which is best for plush carpets, because if the head sinks too deep into the carpet, maneuvering the vacuum cleaner is difficult.
- Suction power control. This feature is useful when using the curtain and upholstery attachments.
Which container vacuum cleaner to choose for your home
Bagless models are becoming more popular as their technology improves. Their great advantage is that they do not require the purchase and replacement of disposable bags, which can significantly reduce operating costs. Modern models have improved filtration systems that trap allergens and dust. They have become lighter and more accurate. But which brand of vacuum cleaner to choose for your home?
The reviews note Shark and its one of the most affordable and easy-to-use Navigator Lift-Away NV352 models. One of its features is versatility. The vacuum cleaner can be turned into a floor-mounted vacuum cleaner by simply detaching the main unit and head from the vertical frame. This makes it easier to clean stairs and under furniture. The head width is 29 cm, which is slightly smaller than other upright models. However, extreme maneuverability and a good set of attachedaccessories greatly compensate for this shortcoming. Many owners also note that the vacuum cleaner is easy to move around, so extra passes don't feel as burdensome. The model weighs only 5.7 kg and is lighter than many competitors.
In terms of accessories, the NV352 offers a good selection. The package includes a brush, crevice nozzles in sizes 14 and 61 cm, which, according to feedback from users, are great for cleaning skirting boards, ceilings and high shelves. The most popular accessory is definitely the pet hair brush, which cleans furniture well. If you need additional nozzles, then there are many that can be purchased separately. However, due to the very wide range of Shark products, you need to make sure that they really fit this model.
Those who are thinking about how to choose an inexpensive vacuum cleaner for the home, users advise Hoover WindTunnel UH70120 and Bissell 9595A. The latest model is especially popular with owners of small apartments.
Vacuum cleaner with bag for home: which one to choose
While bagless models are very convenient, many feel they simply can't match the cleaning and filtration performance of bagged models. The latter have an additional filter that allergy sufferers or those who wish to breathe clean air will appreciate. The bag does not need to be emptied as often as the container, which itself can lead to dust leakage.
Kenmore has built a reputation for reliable household appliances, and vacuum cleaners don'tis an exception. An example of this is the Kenmore Elite 31150. The model is the best, both according to experts, user reviews, and according to the results of professional testing. The vacuum cleaner has an integrated HEPA filter system that leaves small particles such as pollen and other irritants in the bag (or filter).
A particularly handy feature is the contamination sensor. It is an LED that lights up when the vacuum cleaner sucks up debris and dust, and turns off otherwise. This is a great way to make sure the carpet is as clean as possible. The list of accessories is pretty standard - a telescopic tube, a wool attachment and a crevice tool. The 10th cord is wound by hand. The hose stretches to an impressive 4m, giving the Kenmore Elite 31150 a range of 14m when combined with the cord.
As alternatives for people considering which vacuum cleaner to choose for their home, reviews recommend Hoover Platinum UH30010COM, Hoover Type I HEPA Bag AH10005 and low-cost models such as Hoover T-Series UH30310, Hoover Tempo WidePath U5140900.
Cordless Mops
The absence of a cord for models of this type greatly simplifies working with them. They have always been considered tools for quick cleaning of small contaminated areas. However, in the past few years, their run time and performance have improved to the point where they can serve as the main cleaning device, especiallysmall spaces. How to choose a cordless vacuum cleaner for your home? More power comes at a price, and the best models are quite expensive. But most people only need a cordless vacuum cleaner between regular cleanings. In this case, an inexpensive model with an operating time of about 15 minutes will suffice. It takes several hours to fully charge these vacuum cleaners.
Recommended wireless options include Dyson V6, Dyson V8, Hoover Linx BH50010 and Kenmore 10341.
Vacuum Mops
Devices of this type have no time limit, but they are held back by a power cord that may not be long enough to clean an entire room without changing outlets. Small and cheap models have very short cords. More expensive and larger ones are usually supplied with a longer cable. Mop vacuum cleaners can replace heavy upright or floor models, making overall cleaning easier. Mains-powered devices receive more positive owner reviews than wireless ones. According to them, some devices still work well after 5 or even 10 years of operation.
Mop vacuum cleaners guarantee fast and efficient cleaning. Mains power ensures independence from battery life.
Most experts and users recommend Shark Rocket Complete HV382 for dry cleaning. In their opinion, this is one of the best models of this type. Vacuum cleaner-mop perfectly cleans carpets and floors, removes wool. Works great in tight spaces and is quiet. According to reviews, the vacuum cleaner is not verysucks up large particles well, but installing a smaller motorized nozzle can fix this. Many accessories are available. The vacuum cleaner is easily transformed into a manual one, like all Shark models. The HV382 weighs almost 4.5kg, which is higher than the average for this type of machine, but lighter than traditional vacuum cleaners.
Alternative offerings are Bissell PowerEdge 81L2T, Hoover Corded Cyclonic and Dirt Devil Simpli-Stik.
Steam mops
If you're willing to sacrifice the traditional mop and bucket, you can try the steam one. They provide fast and effective cleaning of hard floors. Functions by heating water to boiling point and turning it into steam, which is then released through the head of the device.
According to user reviews, steam mops remove dirt and stains more effectively than traditional mops because steam does it very well. Heat also kills bacteria, disinfecting floors.
Many models can be used on a variety of hard surfaces including wood, linoleum and ceramic tiles. Some modifications are equipped with accessories for cleaning countertops, concrete and other surfaces. Before you choose a vacuum cleaner for your home, you need to pay attention to:
- Brush size. It should not be too large or too small compared to the object of cleaning. A small head will not allow you to quickly process a large area. The swivel head steam mop can help with corners and other tight spaces.
- Tank capacity. Larger volumewill allow you to produce steam longer, eliminating the need for frequent refills.
- Vapour control. Allows you to change the amount of steam produced, as different soils and surfaces require a different approach.
Bissell PowerFresh 1940, Bissell Symphony and Shark Genius S6002 are the best models of this type, according to user reviews.
Washing vacuum cleaners
Even with regular cleaning of carpets, dirt, dust mites, allergens and bacteria remain deep in the fibers. Dirt is abrasive and can shorten the life of your carpet. For deep cleaning, you may need a specialized washing vacuum cleaner. This type of cleaning device uses moisture and heat to help remove dirt and stains that other appliances cannot handle. Many models don't just clean carpets, they disinfect them by killing germs.
How to choose a washing vacuum cleaner for your home? They can be both vertical and manual, capable of cleaning and disinfecting furniture, curtains or rugs. When choosing a suitable model, you should consider the area to be cleaned. It determines the volume of the cleaning solution and, consequently, the capacity of the tank. For example, it may take up to 3 bottles to clean all the rooms in a large house.
A washing vacuum cleaner must necessarily be equipped with a turbo brush, suck up the solution well and have a long power cord and hose so that you do not have to carry the device, for example, when cleaning stairs.
According to user reviews, the best models are Hoover Power Scrub FH50150, BissellSpotClean Pro 3624 and Bissell ProHeat Premier 47A23.
Robotic Vacuum Cleaners
These small self-propelled units are great for quick and daily cleaning. They can clean small living spaces and complement manual cleaning by reducing the need for full-scale cleaning with more powerful machines. But how to choose a robotic vacuum cleaner for your home?
You can find models for both hard floors and with a turbo brush for carpets. Some robots can perform wet cleaning. Most models of this type of vacuum cleaner are cordless and small enough to clean under furniture and can avoid obstacles. There are robots that can avoid falling (for example, from a ladder) and even map the house or automatically return to recharge. Many self-charging vacuum cleaners resume cleaning after the battery is restored. Programmable models allow you to set the schedule for their work. Some of them are equipped with a remote control and have a Wi-Fi connection for activation or programming from a mobile device. Accessories included with individual robotic vacuum cleaners allow you to block off areas of the room or allow access to neighboring rooms.
iRobot Roomba 960
Robotic vacuum cleaners are automatically powered gadgets that independently search for and clean dirt, debris and dust from carpets and floors. They make daily cleaning very convenient and are especially popular with allergy sufferers, pet owners,busy or just picky people who want to see their house clean every time they walk in the door. Although such high-tech devices are expensive, they have almost no fixed costs. But how to choose a robotic vacuum cleaner for your home?
In the ranking of models with the best combination of price and functionality, iRobot Roomba 960 leads. This robot vacuum cleaner replaced the very popular iRobot Roomba 880, which can still be found on sale. You can save a lot on buying an old model, especially if you buy a kit with enough spare parts that will last for at least several years of operation.
However, Roomba 960 is a significant technological step forward - it supports wireless Wi-Fi, thanks to which it can be controlled using a smartphone. Users praise improved navigational abilities, excellent cleaning performance and intuitive operation. True, some complain about connection difficulties and chaotic movement, but this is a minority opinion.
Roomba 960 comes with a charging station, an additional filter, a side brush and a virtual "wall" with dual mode (for prohibiting certain areas of the room or for setting a specific route of movement). A full charge takes about 2 hours. It lasts for 1 hour of work. Roomba 960 is 9 cm high.
Eufy RoboVac 11 and iRobot Roomba 980 are other models that users advise to look at.
Hand vacuum cleaners
As the name suggests, portable vacuum devices are small and light. Most of them are wireless, which makes it possible to quickly deal with cleaning stains. Handheld vacuum cleaners can handle tasks such as removing hair from countertops, upholstery, dust on blinds, or dirt on car floor mats. Wired models are also available, which remove the limitation on operating time. Automotive hand-held vacuum cleaners connected to the cigarette lighter are popular. Washing models are also available with a turbo brush for additional cleaning options.
When deciding which handheld vacuum cleaner is best for your home, consider the following options (the best, according to users): Black & Decker CHV1410L and Eureka Easy Clean 71B.
Floor Models
As technology improves, vacuum cleaners of this type are becoming more and more popular. The big advantage is that the hassle of buying and replacing bags is no longer relevant, which is better for both the environment and the wallet. Modern vacuum cleaners have filtration systems that trap allergens and dust. Floor vacuum cleaners are lighter and cleaner than before. However, bagless models do not provide additional filtration.
Floor vacuum cleaners are better for households with a lot of hard floors and less so for carpets. The only exception is the Miele C3 series, and in particular the Miele Complete C3 Cat&Dog. The model has improved characteristics and sufficientnumber of included accessories to play the role of a versatile device.
Miele vacuum cleaners are expensive, but they are extremely durable, reliable, high performance tools that are especially good for hardwood floors. The most popular accessory is the Miele C3 Cat&Dog, a mini-turbo brush for collecting pet hair from any surface. There is also a parquet nozzle that allows you to clean high-quality floor coverings without damaging them, crevice nozzle, upholstery brush and dust collector. Other accessories can be purchased separately. All accessories included in the kit are stored in the vacuum cleaner itself.
Although floor-standing models do not handle carpets, especially high pile carpets, as well as upright ones, Miele models are the best in this matter. This is partly due to the adjustable brush height.
Cat&Dog is equipped with a standard AirClean charcoal filter and an optional HEPA filter. However, it is included in the Miele Complete C3 Marin. This model is very similar to the Cat&Dog, but has a few extra features, including a "parking" system that allows you to temporarily turn off the vacuum cleaner and then turn it back on without having to use the switch. However, Marin is sold without a turbo brush.
According to the reviews, floor vacuum cleaners are much easier to clean than vertical ones. Miele Complete C3 Cat&Dog foot controls allow you to adjust suction and brush height without bending. Retractable 7 m power cord combined with telescopic tube and hoseprovide a cleaning radius of 10 m. The vacuum cleaner is well balanced and weighs 10 kg thanks to its ergonomic design, it feels much lighter. Owners who have purchased this model after years of using cheap devices are wondering why they have not done so for so long. Its cost is justified by high performance and efficiency.
For those who do not know how to choose a good inexpensive vacuum cleaner for the home with a floor type and with a bag, users are advised to pay attention to models such as Kenmore 81614, Kenmore Elite 81714 and Eureka 3670G Mighty Mite.
