Canister Vacuums
How to Choose
There are three ways to divide the category of canister vacuums. - Price
- Both high-end
 and budget models exist.
- Many of the most expensive vacuums are also top performers. That doesn't mean you can't find a machine that works for you at a price that suits your budget.
- Size
- There are larger full-sized models with more power. These can weigh as much as 30 lbs.
- A lightweight or mini model might be a good choice if you often have to vacuum stairs.
- Usually they only weigh about six lbs. or so.
- While they are easier to handle and cost less, keep in mind that some lightweight models sacrifice power.
- Bag or No Bag?
- Bagless canisters make it easy to judge whether or not they are full because they use a clear canister. They can release a lot of dust when you clean it out.
- Canisters with bags are easy to clean but require the purchase of additional bags, which can get expensive if you vacuum a large space and/or often.
Additional Features to Consider - Attachments
- If you have just bare floors to vacuum, then you don't have to worry about attachments. If you need to clean upholstery, drapes or tight spaces, you will need attachments.
- Common attachments include bare-floor brush, wand, dusting brush, upholstery tool, crevice tool, and power nozzle.
- Power Nozzle
- Power nozzles (aka powerbrushes) are nozzles with a rotating brush.
- Gives your canister vac the power to clean carpeting.
- "Suction only" means there is no power nozzle.
- Full-bag Indicator
- Bags lose suction when they are full. This causes a loss of suction. (Another cause may be a clogged filter). If you have an alert feature, you will always know when to change your bag so that your vacuum can produce the best results.
- A completely sealed airflow system will also help improve suction.
- Power
- For best results on carpets, look for a model with a power-nozzle (it helps increase suction on carpets). You may want a suction control option to very power depending on what you are cleaning.
- Cords and Hoses
- You want a long retractable cord. Some models reach to about 25 feet.
- Hoses should be at least 5 feet long.
- Wand
- A telescoping wand makes for easy extensions when cleaning ceilings and reaching under furniture.
- Filter
- HEPA filters are designed to reduce the amount of dust that is spit up into the air.
- Especially good for allergy sufferers, but they can prove useful for anyone sensitive to dust or in homes with pets.
- The machine-washable kinds are the easiest to clean.
Pros and Cons
There are many styles of vacuums, but canister vacuums are good for several specific reasons.
- They are perfect for homes with a mix of carpeted and bare floors.
- Better than most uprights on drapes, crevices, and upholstery.
- Very easy to use on stairs.
- They take up very little room.
- Despite their power, they still manage to be lightweight.
The main complaints about canister vacuums: - With separate head and a body, it can be awkward to maneuver.
- Their bulkiness -- and the fact that you often have to carry them -- may make them seem heavier than they really are.
- They are more expensive than uprights but are available in a wide price range.
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