How to Choose a Vacuum Cleaner

The right vacuum depends on your floors, the size of your home, and how much cleaning you want to do at once. Thinking about those first makes the many options easier to compare.

Types of vacuums

• Upright vacuums stand on their own and are common for larger homes and carpeted floors.
• Canister vacuums have a separate body that you pull behind you, with a hose and wand. They can be flexible for stairs, furniture, and hard floors.
• Stick vacuums are slim and many are cordless. They are easy to grab for quick cleanups.
• Handheld vacuums are small and suited to cars, furniture, and spills.
• Robot vacuums clean on a schedule with little effort, but may not replace a regular vacuum for every job.

Your floors

Carpets and hard floors need different things. Some vacuums have adjustable settings or brush heads for different surfaces. Check whether the brush roll can be turned off for hard floors, and what the manufacturer says each head is designed to clean.

Bagged or bagless

• Bagged models collect dust in a bag you throw away, which can be less messy to empty.
• Bagless models use a bin you empty, which avoids buying bags but can release dust when emptying.

Filters

Many vacuums list a filter type. Read what the manufacturer says a filter is designed to do, and check whether it is washable or needs replacing, because replacements can be an ongoing cost.

Cordless runtime and charging

For cordless models, runtime depends on the battery and the power setting you use. Check the listed runtime, whether the battery is removable, and how long it takes to charge.

Weight, attachments, and noise

A lighter vacuum is easier to carry upstairs. Look at which tools are included, such as a crevice tool, a dusting brush, and a pet hair tool, and check how loud the vacuum is if noise matters in your home.

Maintenance and storage

Check the cord length, bin size, and how simple it is to remove hair from the brush roll. Think about where you will store the vacuum and where a cordless model will charge.

Specifications change between models, so confirm details with the retailer before you buy.