How to choose a new vacuum

Are you in the market for a new vacuum cleaner? Here’s a brief guide to choosing the best one for your home.

TYPES OF VACUUMS

Vacuum cleaners come in a few basic styles, including:

• Upright vacuums with either a bin or bag attached to the handle and a rotating brush head to pick up dirt. These are popular because they clean well, particularly carpeted surfaces.

• Canister vacuums, which have a hose attached to the dirt receptacle that you pull behind you. They’re easier to use on stairs because the hose allows you to tackle different levels without having to carry the whole motor with you the entire time.

• Stick and handheld models. Both are great for dealing with small messes but aren’t ideal for extensive or deep cleaning.

• Central vacuum systems, which allow homeowners to plug a hose into an outlet in the wall, thereby accessing a central unit with very strong suction.

• Robot vacuums offer a hands-free approach to cleaning, but their high price tag reflects their level of convenience.

BAG VS. BIN

Vacuums come with either disposable bags or reusable bins to store the debris they pick up.

Though vacuum bags need to be frequently replaced, they tend to hold more and release less dirt and dust into the air as you change them.

Reusable bins, alternatively, can be emptied and reused countless times but hold less debris. You also risk coming into contact with dust when you empty it.

No matter what vacuum you choose, if anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma, choose a model with a HEPA filter to avoid releasing allergens into the air.