How to Find the Perfect Vacuum Cleaner

The first vacuum cleaner was actually a carpet sweeper. This machine which featured rotating brushes and bellows to create suction was invented by a man named Daniel Hess who patented it in 1860.

While this may seem like an innovative device that everyone would want, it does not appear to have ever been manufactured. The patent for the first portable electric vacuum cleaner went to James Spangler of Canton, Ohio in 1908. The name for his vacuum actually came from his cousin, William Hoover, and has become the household word for vacuum.

Improvements have continued to be made on the vacuum over its 150 year history. There are now vacuums out there that can meet every different cleaning need. There is a broad range of vacuum choices that face the consumer, from bagged, bagless, HEPA filters, upright, canister, and robot.

Vacuums clean in two distinct ways. The first measure of how a vacuum cleans is the amount of dirt and debris that it can remove from the floor. Good performance of a vacuum relies in large part on the power of the suction motor.

The second way a vacuum cleans is how it filters the air that is returned back into the home. The best choice for those that suffer from allergies is a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Some models of vacuum with HEPA filters are so efficient that they can remove 99% of pollen, dust, and other allergens from the air.

The choice between an upright or canister model really comes down to personal preference. There are pros and cons to both models that should be investigated prior to making your final decision. Canister vacuums often work best for those with stairs.

Another benefit to most canister vacuums is their retractable cords. The light weight of the canister vacuum head makes it a better choice for those that have a difficult time pushing around a heavy upright model.

Think about the surfaces and areas you will need to vacuum when choosing your new vacuum cleaner. Many styles of vacuum are designed for different applications. You dont, for example, want to purchase a carpet vacuum if you have mainly hardwood floors or some other hard surface throughout your home.

Taking the time to consider how you will use your vacuum will help you purchase the vacuum that will give you the best performance. Your research will pay off when you bring home a machine that will make cleaning your home easier and more enjoyable.

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Purchasing Tips
Help with finding and choosing the right vacuum.

Cleaning Tips
Tips for cleaning and vacuuming.

Brands and Styles
A look at some of the different brands and styles available.

Vacuum Cleaner Basics
A look at the vacuum cleaner and its parts.

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Where to buy
A store where you can buy vacuum cleaners.