Is your home mostly hardwood floors with a few rugs or wall-to-wall shag? Are you single or do you have three children and two dogs? Understanding your living space and your lifestyle will go a long way in determining what kind of vacuum you need. While some models are designed to take you from wood floors and linoleum to Berber to shag with the touch of a button, others are made to tackle an abundance of pet hair for consumers with four-footed friends. Ask yourself, “What do I want most from a vacuum?” Is it low weight, compact design and ease of movement? Super suction and a quiet motor? Maybe you’re just looking for a vacuum with a really long cord. Whatever the case, chances are there is a make and model for you.
Help or Hype?
The following is an in-depth look at a few of the latest, best-selling brands of vacuums, including manufacturer recommendations and customer reviews, to help you make the most informed decision when purchasing your next vacuum.
The Roomba
Do you really hate to vacuum? The Roomba, from iRobot, may be the right machine for you. This completely hands-free vacuum doesn’t require you to push it. Just set it in the middle of a room and turn it on. While this vacuum may seem cutting-edge to some, its flying saucer design and lack of human control may be intimidating for others. Here is what the manufacturer has to say about it. “Roomba is great for anyone who either doesn't want to push a vacuum or can't push a vacuum - as well as anyone who wants more time to do other things with their lives. And because you don't have to push it, you can use Roomba to keep your floors barefoot clean every day.”
The Roomba received and average of four out of five stars from 103 reviews on www.amazon.com. Possible drawbacks to this model range from the fact that it has to be charged regularly to its tendency to tangle in exposed cords and fringed rugs. Some users also reported that, despite the manufacturer’s claims to the contrary, it was difficult to empty and clean the collection bin.