How to Choose the Best Canister Vacuum Cleaners

How to Choose the Best Canister Vacuum Cleaners

Article by Thomas Johnsen

The best canister vacuum cleaners offer versatility and convenience to homeowners and are used for a wide variety of purposes. Unlike upright vacuums, the classic choice for wall-to-wall carpets, canisters work well for area rugs, wood floors, and tile. They are, also, effective for cleaning stairs, curtains, shelves, ceiling fans, and other household items.

Canister vacuums come in a wide range of prices and models. Important features to consider before buying are the following: ease of use, attachments, filters, and special features. Vacuums should be light enough to transport up stairs and around the house for various uses. While most canisters come with a selection of attachments, it is important to make sure that the necessary pieces for any specific needs are included.

Having onboard storage for attachments is an added convenience, especially for users who multi-task when vacuuming. For allergy suffers, efficient filters eliminate exposure to unnecessary dust while the canister is being used. HEPA filters, while highly rated, may not be entirely necessary if the alternatives are well made. Canister vacuums, like upright models, come in designs that operate with or without bags. Although bagless versions save money when it comes to replacements, they are less effective when it comes to controlling allergens. They, also, may require that filters be replaced more frequently. Reviewers, however, say that either version, with or without bags, works equally well for cleaning.

The following canisters are highly recommended by various reviewers, such as Consumer Reports and other experts, and users as being among the best in their categories.

According to Consumer Reports, one of the most highly rated canisters overall is the Hoover WindTunnel S3670. The WindTunnel retails for approximately $ 225 and works well on area rugs. Although reviews praise its great suction and practicality, they, also, find it noisy and somewhat difficult to handle.

Another option in the budget range is the Eureka Mighty Mite 3670G at $ 65. The Eureka is lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to maneuver; it, also, works well on bare floors. However, it is noisy, and reviewers say that its results on area rugs are less than optimal.

A third alternative, rated best for users with allergies, is the Miele Ariel S521. The Ariel, which sells for $ 520, performs well and has an excellent emissions control but is heavy and relatively expensive. In addition, some users were critical of its ability to be maneuvered and to clean bare floors. The Electrolux Harmony Ultraquiet is an appealing alternative to noisy, cumbersome models. It not only traps up to 99% of allergens, but it seamlessly moves from tile to carpet, as well. With an assortment of convenient tools and innovative features, this lightweight canister can be purchased at amazon.com for $ 325.

An array of the best canister vacuum cleaners can be found in local discount stores, home stores, and appliance shops. However, for the discerning shopper who wants to compare reviews, cost, and features before making a decision, the internet provides a wealth of information to ensure the choice of just the right model at the very best price.