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Canister Vacuums Buying Guide

Canister vacuums  have a motor and bag in a separate unit that is typically on wheels and connected to a vacuum  hose or head. Canister vacuums are smaller than regular sized vacuums and therefore lighter and easier to transport.

How to Choose

There are three things to consider when shopping for 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, and while they are easier to handle and cost less, keep in mind that some lightweight models sacrifice power.
  • Bag or No Bag?
    • When using bagless canisters,  it is easier to judge when it's full because the canister is clear. However, these can release a lot of dust when you clean them 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 often.

Features

  • Attachments
    • If you just have bare floors to vacuum, then you don't have to worry about attachments. However, if you need to clean upholstery, drapes  or tight spaces, then these may come in handy. 
    • 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. 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.
  • Cords and Hoses
    • A long, retractable cord can make jobs in large spaces much easier. Some models reach to about 25 feet, and hoses should be at least 5 feet long.
  • Filter
    • HEPA filters  are designed to reduce the amount of dust that is spit up into the air.
    • Filters are especially good for allergy sufferers, but they can prove useful for anyone sensitive to dust or in homes with pets.
    • The machine-washable filters are the easiest to clean.

Considerations

There are many styles of vacuums, so take these points in mind when considering which type to buy.

  • They are perfect for homes with a mix of carpeted and bare floors.
  • Better than most uprights on drapes, crevices, and upholstery.
  • Easy to use on stairs.
  • Take up very little room. 
  • Despite their power, they still manage to be lightweight.
  • With a separate head and body, these can be awkward to maneuver.
  • Their bulkiness and the fact that you often have to carry them around make them seem heavier than they really are.
  • They are more expensive than uprights but are available in a wide price range.

Top Manufacturers

Recommendations

These high-powered canister vacuums are lightweight and some have bagless features as well as wand or brush attachments. Check out the models below.

Electrolux EL7020B Oxy3 Ultra Canister Vacuum 

Dirt Devil M082660 Vision Canister Bagless Vacuum 

Electrolux EL6988D Oxygen Canister Vacuum 

Electrolux EL7055B Twin Clean Bagless Canister Vacuum 

Electrolux EL7055B Twin Clean Bagless Canister Vacuum 

Hoover S3765040 WindTunnel Electronic Bagless Canister Vacuum 

Hoover S3670 Wind Tunnel Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner with Power Nozzle 

Related Guides

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Steam Cleaners

Handheld Vacuums

Deep Carpet Cleaners

External Links

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