Today’s market offers a wide range of vacuum cleaners with numerous innovative features. But which one should you purchase? Unfortunately, choosing one from these huge options can be challenging.
A vacuum cleaner can last for years if you choose the ideal one. In this guide, I will assist you in selecting the perfect one for your home.
So, let’s get started and find my vacuum cleaner buying guide-
26 Features To Consider Before Purchasing – Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide
The features of vacuum cleaners differ from one category to the other and from one brand to the next. So, to choose the best vacuum for your cleaning needs, you should be aware of the features and their benefits. Now, let’s look at the various functions vacuum cleaners offer.
1. Surface Type
You may have several flooring types in your home that require cleaning. As a result, you must first inspect the surface you intend to clean.
Some vacuums are only effective on hardwood or laminate floors. Again, if you’re going to clean a carpet, you’ll need a vacuum with a lot of suction power designed for deep cleaning.
However, there are certain vacuums available that can clean a variety of surfaces. So, it is better to use a vacuum with multi-surface cleaning options.
2. Suction Power
You better try to select a vacuum cleaner that is powerful enough to vacuum the entire house. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck with a device that can’t accomplish your desired task.
When determining the power of a vacuum, the watts must be a consideration. For example, tiny vacuum cleaners may only have a suction rating of 250 watts.
In contrast, suction ratings for powerful vacuums can reach 3,000 watts. So you can usually get something in the middle if you’re unsure which one to prefer.
3. Noise Level
Loud noises may be disturbing while cleaning with vacuums. However, many of them can run silently without losing cleaning power. So, you must consider the noise level before purchasing a vacuum.
4. Dust Container Capacity
A vacuum with a decibel level of 60-65 dB is incredibly quiet. The most straightforward approach to compare noise levels is to look at the product specifications or ask a salesperson for the decibel level (dB).
The bin capacity of the vacuum is a crucial factor to consider before purchasing one. A vacuum with a small bin capacity will require frequent emptying and hamper your cleaning.
You can choose your preferable one considering the size of your cleaning area. For example, the volume of this container may range from 2 liters up to 10 liters. Therefore, buying a vacuum with a larger container capacity is better to avoid interruption in your cleaning process if you have a big house.
5. Filter
A filter in the vacuum cleans the air of the cleaning area. It collects dirt and dust and needs to be changed periodically. There are many types of filters available in vacuum cleaners. Such as-
- Stage Filter
- Lifetime Filter
- HEPA Filter
- Charcoal Filter
Some filters are washable; some are not. Washable filters are always very convenient to use. After every use, you can remove them and clean them with cold water.
Today’s market has vacuums with advanced filters that can capture even microparticles and allergies. So, you can look for the latest filtration system while purchasing a vacuum.
6. Suction Mode
A vacuum with a suction power controller is always preferable. However, the requirement of suction power may vary with the depth and intensity of cleaning. So, if you have a vacuum with various suction modes, it will be helpful for multi-cleaning.
Carpet cleaning requires higher suction power than bare floor cleaning. Moreover, if you have pets in your house, you will need a vacuum with high efficiency. Therefore, choosing a vacuum cleaner with various suction modes is preferable.
7. Bagged/Bagless
A vacuum can be bagged or bagless. A bag vacuum usually has a high suction power that is effective for cleaning. But the bag must be changed when it gets over-filled.
On the other hand, Bagless vacuum cleaners use filters to collect dust and debris in a dirt cup or chamber that is easily removable. Moreover, these filters are washable. Therefore, bagless vacuums do not require any extra maintenance costs for buying bags.
8. Vacuuming Schedule
If you want to vacuum every day but don’t have the time, consider investing in a programmable robotic vacuum that will clean your home while you’re away.
Robotic vacuums have personalized scheduling options. They learn your cleaning habits and perform accordingly. Furthermore, you can command your vacuum where and when to clean your house with your smartphone.
9. Pet Mess Cleaning
Having pet animals in the house often requires heavy cleaning. So, especially pet hair cleaning is a matter of concern. Unfortunately, all vacuums don’t come with pet hair cleaning features. So, before purchasing, you better check these features.
Pet vacuums include several kinds of brushes for cleaning pet messes. Some vacuums also come with pet-odor eliminator technology. Moreover, many robot vacuums suggest extra cleaning during high pet hair shed season. Therefore, choose one according to your cleaning preference.
10. Weight
Before purchasing a vacuum, you need to consider the weight of the vacuum. A heavy vacuum may create difficulty in moving and will hamper a variety of cleaning as lifting will be tough.
Full-size upright models can weigh more than 20 pounds, although lightweight stick variants often weigh less than 10 pounds. So if you have a multilevel home and need to transport the vacuum up and down the stairs, you can choose powerful upright vacuums with less weight.
11. Cyclonic Action
Vacuums with cyclonic action are top-rated these days. There may be single or multiple cyclonic filters in a vacuum.
This cyclone action in the vacuum separates dust and dirt particles from the air passage, reducing filter clogging. That means your vacuum cleaner won’t lose suction during operation.
Thus, the cyclonic feature in a vacuum allows you to clean your house faster and more thoroughly every time.
12. Wet/Dry Cleaning
A dry vacuum cleaner works best for collecting dust and grime. On the other hand, a wet vacuum cleaner is preferable if you’re seeking a vacuum that can suck up more significant amounts of trash while properly collecting water.
Many vacuum cleaners, however, provide wet/dry choices. Although they are somewhat expensive, you can select one based on your needs.
13. Run-Time
Before purchasing a vacuum, you better check the run-time of the vacuum. If your vacuum has a short battery life, it will repeatedly interrupt you while cleaning as the charge drains fast.
Different vacuums offer different run-time. Consider a vacuum with an extended running capacity if you have ample space to clean. So, keep the battery life in mind while buying a battery-powered vacuum.
14. Height Adjustment
A vacuum with a multi-purpose option is functional—especially one with an adjustable wand length.
This feature allows you to extend the vacuum to clean hard-to-reach areas. Moreover, they offer you above-floor cleaning options increasing your reach. Thus, you can have a complete cleaning of your house.
15. Multi-Purpose Cleaning
Being limited to bare floor cleaning or carpets doesn’t make a vacuum functional. So, a multi-purpose feature should be a consideration before purchasing a vacuum.
There are several vacuums in the market that have many extra components included for versatile cleaning. Thus, they clean hard floors, carpets, furniture, upholstery, and furniture with a single compact vacuum cleaner.
16. Swappable Battery
Recently, battery power vacuums are getting more popular as they are more convenient and aloof from cord-plugging stress.
But one fact that causes trouble in these battery-powered vacuums is their recharging hassle. When your vacuum runs out of charge while cleaning, you need to pause your cleaning and set it for recharging.
In such a case, if your vacuum has a swappable battery option, charging will not interfere with your cleaning. As a result, it is preferable to opt for a vacuum with interchangeable batteries.
17. Flexible Storage
It is better to evaluate the size of the vacuum that you intend to purchase. Some vacuums are large and difficult to store. These vacuums, on the other hand, are the most powerful.
If you require a strong vacuum, you will likely need to acquire a larger one. But, if you have limited room, look for a smaller vacuum with a lot of power for flexible storage.
18. Cord Length
If you chose a corded vacuum for your regular cleaning purpose, you better consider the length of the cord.
Corded vacuums require frequent plug-ins and out. So, it severely hampers your cleaning flow. In this case, a vacuum with a long cord can minimize the hassle of frequent plugging.
19. Wall-mount
A vacuum with a wall-mounted feature makes recharging and storing vacuum tools much more accessible. It also saves your storage space.
Some don’t even require any drilling of your wall. With this wall-mount feature, you can charge the vacuum anywhere and are ready to grab and go.
20. LED Lights
So, LED headlights can also be a feature to look at before purchasing a vacuum.
A vacuum with LED headlights effectively cleans dark and hardly-seen spaces. These lights help you to see the hidden dirt in congested areas like- below furniture, harsh edges of your rooms, and many more.
21. Swivel Steering
Cleaning around furniture and other obstructions is quick and easy when using a vacuum with swivel steering. Furthermore, the steering makes the void more adaptable and convenient for daily cleaning.
You no longer need to be afraid of dirty sports because the vacuum’s swivel neck allows simple access to even the most difficult spots.
22. Easy Dirt Tank Empty
An easy dirt tank emptying option is a fact to consider while selecting a vacuum cleaner. With this feature, you do not need extra effort to empty the dirt tank after cleaning.
Select a vacuum that opens the bin with a simple button or touch. This easy empty feature can quickly empty the dirt bin without dust scattering. Thus, cleaning after cleaning is hassle-free, quick, and mess-free.
23. Floor Detection Sensors
Many vacuums have smart sensors that recognize a carpet or hard floor surface and adapt to provide the best suction. It eliminates the need to experiment with multiple modes or worry about damaging your vac on different floor types.
These intelligent sensor vacuums can automatically recognize the floor and function accordingly.
24. Wi-Fi Connectivity
The vacuum, which enables Wi-Fi features, has many intelligent features. For example, they link the vac to an App that will regularly give you your cleaning updates.
Moreover, they will notify you of the filter condition and advise you to replace it when required. Thus, Wi-Fi connectivity brings many advanced features to make your cleaning experience more convenient.
25. Voice Control
If you want a vacuum cleaner with advanced features, you can go for a robot vacuum. They have the latest technologies in them.
You can control the robot vacuums with your voice. In addition, they are compatible with Alexa and Google Home. Thus, you can easily command your vacuum to clean.
26. Accessories & Attachments
Vacuum cleaners come with a variety of additional tools. These attachments have specific cleaning functions. Some essential components to assist your cleaning are-
- Turbo Brush: Equipped with a spinning brush to agitate fibers, this is a fantastic choice for cleaning the stairs.
- Crevice Tool: Use this tool to remove dust from tight spaces, such as the sides of cupboards and underneath radiators.
- Dusting Brush: Soft bristles gently remove dust from delicate materials such as drapes and lampshades without damage.
- Upholstery: Usually equipped with red microfiber strips, this small instrument helps remove lint, dust, and hair from upholstery. It is pretty effective on mattresses and cushions.
- Wand Extension: This allows you to clean above-floor and difficult-to-reach spots by extending your reach limit.
- Cleaning Solutions: Many vacuum manufacturers include a sample bottle of cleaning solution with the vacuum.
Different Common Types of Vacuum Cleaners
Every category of vacuum cleaner performs specific cleaning tasks. The suction power and features also vary from one type to the other. Therefore, you must know about different vacuums before choosing one. Now let’s know about the vacuum types-
Upright Vacuum
Upright vacuums are the most popular nowadays and are best for carpet cleaning. The vertical design of these vacuums is perfect for creating pressure on the powerhead to remove solid dirt and spots from carpets easily.
So, an upright vacuum can be a good choice if you have a large carpeted house. Plus, they also work well on hard floors. Moreover, upright vacuums have strong suction power. Some also come with additional tools and adjustable lengths, offering multi-purpose cleaning.
Canister Vacuum
Canister vacuums are more suited for cleaning bare floors. They include a hose for easy dirt pickup and are ideal for cleaning tiny spaces. Additionally, they assist with cleaning beneath furniture, upholstery, and staircases.
The canister vacuums are incredibly portable and light. Therefore, if your home is small, you might use a canister vacuum for routine cleaning.
Battery life while purchasing will be convenient for extended cleaning sessions.
Handheld Vacuum
Handheld vacuums are small, lightweight, and portable for regular cleaning. They can be corded or cordless.
A vacuum with handheld features is ideal for quick cleanups. This vacuum can be good for you if you have kids or pet animals. Plus, they include many additional accessories which support multi-purpose cleanings.
Robot Vacuum
Robotic vacuums are ideal for those who want to avoid dealing with the trouble of vacuuming every day. In addition, these vacuums come with many advanced automated features.
Moreover, you can schedule cleaning according to your preferences. It also has an intelligent navigation system that knows your house and can clean it effectively.
What makes robot vacuums even more fascinating is that they can be monitored from anywhere, thanks to Wi-Fi connectivity. Plus, you don’t need to worry about charging as it can automatically recharge itself.
Corded and Cordless
Corded and cordless vacuum cleaner has some advantages and disadvantages. The corded cleaner has a power cord that has to be plugged in during cleaning. But with this, you can clean the last spec of dirt and not worry about the charge being finished or recharged.
While the cordless vacuum is run battery powered can start cleaning from anywhere in your home; no need to bother plugging it in. In addition, the cordless cleaner is easygoing and needs to catch up with the furniture.
Warranty
A warranty is like an authenticity certificate for any product. So, before purchasing any electronic product, you should check its security.
If you get to choose the right vacuum for you, it can last for a more extended period. But, there are possibilities of facing issues regarding the vacuum after purchase. In this case, you can use the product’s warranty to solve the problem for free within that due time.
However, there are many limitations regarding the warranty, and you must purchase the product from a licensed vendor. So, always confirm the security before buying any vacuum.
Final Word
The first thing to consider before buying a vacuum is the surface type that requires cleaning, and then you may think about the vacuum’s suction power. You can also check the vacuum’s pet mess and hair-cleaning ability if you have a pet in your house.
Then depending on the size of your cleaning area and the latest features, you can choose the right vacuum for you as per your preferences.
After this detailed discussion, I hope you are ready to choose the best vacuum for your home/office/commercial cleaning.