5 Things to Consider When Buying a Vacuum Cleaner

You need a good vacuum cleaner to keep your indoor environment clean and healthy. A poor vacuum cleaner, on the other hand, will give you a headache in more ways than one. When it's time to buy a vacuum, don't rush out and buy the most attractive model at your local big box store. Think of this purchase as an investment in your health and research it accordingly. Here are 5 essential questions to help you in the process:

1. Do I need a commercial vacuum or residential vacuum?

Industrial or commercial vacuum cleaners are heavy-duty machines, and they're often made for specific jobs like hazardous material cleanup, mold remediation, mercury cleanup, or museum artifact cleaning.

Nilfisk vacuum cleaners set the gold star standard when it comes to commercial vacuums. (Nilfisk also manufactures backpack vacuums, hip vacuums, and residential vacuums.)

Minuteman vacuums are outstanding industrial machines as well. They feature premium filtration suitable for the remediation of mold spores, bio-hazardous dust, and viral particles.

Because of their durability and reliability, Sebo vacuums have been a long-time favorite of the hospitality industry.

If you're looking for a residential vacuum cleaner, continue reading to learn more.

2. Do I prefer a stick, upright, or canister vacuum?

If you live in a small apartment or condo with little carpeting, you might prefer a convenient stick vacuum. The Electrolux Pronto 2 in 1 Stick Vacuum is lightweight and cordless, so it's easy to store out of the way. With the push of a button, the powerful floor vacuum transforms into a handheld vacuum that allows you to clean all those tight spots.

Upright vacuums are ideal for homes and offices that have a mix of carpet and smooth floors. These units are always in front of you and easy to steer, so they're ideal for large, open areas – but they're not always ideal for cleaning stairs or under furniture. Popular upright vacuums include those from Bissell, Eureka, and Sebo.

Canister vacuums are easier to maneuver in tight spaces and carry up stairs. They're also recommended for homes and offices with mostly carpet. Popular canister vacuum cleaners include those from Electrolux, Eureka, and Sebo.

3. Are allergies a concern?

If you have allergies or asthma, you definitely want a vacuum cleaner with the ability to remove allergens from the environment without simply stirring them up. Make sure that the vacuum has a HEPA filter (capable of collecting 99.97% of pollutants 0.3 microns and larger) and an airtight design. Additionally, we recommend vacuums with bags for allergy-sufferers. Bags trap allergens better than the collection buckets in bagless units.

The Halo vacuum features HEPA filtration as well as a germicidal UV light that kills bacteria, viruses, flea eggs, dust mite eggs, and mold spores. It sanitizes the floors as you vacuum.

If you have allergies, don't forget to vacuum upholstery, drapes, and other dust catchers.

4. Do I prefer a bagless vacuum?

If you prefer a bagless vacuum, always empty the container outdoors, especially if you have allergies. Otherwise, you're polluting your indoor air with microscopic allergens and other particles. The Electrolux EL7055B is a top-rated bagless, canister vacuum cleaner with two self-cleaning HEPA filters. The Eureka Whirlwind is another popular bagless canister vacuum. The Bissell Healthy Home vacuum and Bissell Lift-Off Revolution Pet vacuum are bagless upright HEPA units that feature nonstop cyclonic suction.

5. Do I need a wet/dry vacuum?

If you frequently have to clean up wet spills, then you'll want a wet/dry vacuum. The Nilfisk Eliminator II vacuum is an excellent wet/dry vacuum for residential or light commercial use. For industrial use, consider the Nilfisk VT60 Wet/Dry vacuum or the Minuteman X-829 vacuum.

Still Got Questions?

For more information on vacuum cleaners, see our extensive product listings and other educational materials. Feel free to contact our product experts toll free at 1 (800) 934-9194. Our goal is to help you make your indoor environment as healthy and comfortable as possible.