Vacuum Cleaner Guide Category:
by Lindsay on March 22, 2010
Product safety is very important to me because I’ve accidentally used a defect appliance and hurt myself (it was an iron, by the way). Thankfully, it wasn’t serious. Since then, I learned that I need to practice better safety measures whenever I use ANY household appliance. You may think “how can a vacuum cleaner possibly be dangerous?” Well sadly, it can. And prevention is always better than cure!
Many people don’t realize that careless use of vacuum cleaner can actually cause safety problems. For example, using vacuum too close to a water source or wet surface can cause short circuit to the item, causing electric shock. Of course, most vacuums are equipped with safety features but I’m sure you’d agree with me that it helps to play a preventive role on our part.
Here, I’d like to share 4 safety tips when you use vacuum cleaner:
1. Keep children and pets away
Regardless of whether your vacuum comes with a cord or not, you should always switch it off when you are not using. If your pets are curious by nature, I’d suggest that you keep them out of the room/outside until you finish vacuuming. They may just tug the cord or knock the vacuum over and get hurt.
Also, keep small children away while you vacuum and NEVER leave a vacuum switched on unattended. Children are a curious bunch and they may just stick their hands into the power nozzle.
2. Wear slippers while you vacuum
Sometimes, moving the vacuum around too quickly can be dangerous. Take time to clean and push the vacuum properly. There’s a chance that your toe can get stuck in the nozzle because the carpet is lifted as you vacuum in a hurry.
3. Beware of loops and kinks
One of the most common injuries is tripping over vacuum cord. Loop the wires properly before you keep it away. And when you take it out, make sure that there are minimal kinks and it’s not tangled. This is especially important if you vacuum when there are other people around. Also, avoid sharp corners because they may cut into the cord and don’t overstretch the cord.
4. Don’t attempt to pick up large objects
If you force your vacuum to pick up large objects (especially metal ones), you’ll spoil the fan or motor. It’s just not worth it because repair can be costly, not to mention that it’s dangerous. It helps to remember that the function of a vacuum is to pick up small particles/objects/things that you cannot see or pick it up yourself.
I’ve also written extensive reviews on different vacuums on my blog and I’ve some good recommendations that you can consider. Do check out my Best Vacuum Cleaner site!
Also, read my other posts: 5 Tips How to Choose the Best Vacuum Cleaner, 4 Ways to Keep Your Vacuum Cleaner in Tip Top Condition and Why You Need A Vacuum Cleaner (and Why a Broom Just Won’t Work!).
by Lindsay on March 15, 2010
Why do some products cost more than others? I’ve asked this myself when shopping for my first vacuum. I personally like buying cheap or moderately priced products. But, if the product is really good, I won’t mind spending more for it. I think it’s only fair that the price should match the quality and value of product. At the end of the day, isn’t it true that we all want to feel that we’ve made a good buy and we’re satisfied with what we bought? (Read my post on 5 Tips How to Choose the Best Vacuum Cleaner).
When it comes to buying vacuum, what features do you look into? Does price matter? I think so. I’ll explain why in the next 4 points:
Material Used to Manufacture Vacuum is Important
Your vacuum may be made of plastic with a combination of stronger material (acrylic). A simple way to check the plastic quality is by gently tapping the surface of your vacuum. You can tell it’s made of low quality plastic when it emits a high pitch tap sound when you gently tap on it. Good plastic releases a solid thud sound and you can be sure that it won’t break easily even when hit against something hard. Naturally, vacuum with better built cost much more.
I’ve bought different types of vacuum and I’ve observed that those with better built can cost twice as much, but they also last longer. Well, there are also cases where the opposite is true (cheap models last longer) but to buy a good model, you got to do your research thoroughly. I’d recommend Best Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner for those looking for a good but cheap vacuum.
The Type of Filtration Matters
The price of a vacuum increases significantly depending on the type of filter system used. More expensive filters include HEPA or S Class. These sophisticated filters trap allergen effectively, leaving the house clean and allergen-free. I’ve mentioned in my post (5 Tips How to Choose the Best Vacuum Cleaner) that it’s important to choose a vacuum with good filter. You’d want to live in a dust-free environment and breathe cleaner air at the same time.
Suction Power and Overall Performance
Generally, it’s good to choose a vacuum that works on both carpet and floor. Most people also have the habit of owning two vacuums – one for thorough house cleaning and the other for quick touch-ups. If you want to do the same, invest in a good model with excellent suction for the one you do thorough cleaning with.
Consider the reviews on my blog and choose a model that suits you best. In any case, it’s best to choose models with excellent performance for both models. However if that’s not possible, then settle for a cheap but reasonably good model to do your light-duty cleaning.
Money Spent = Time Saved?
I personally think this is true. Take robotic vacuum or example, I may have spent a huge sum on it but I consider it worthwhile because of the time saved. I don’t have to clean the house myself – I have a mini robot to take care of that for me! So, whether you are willing to spend more money to save time, it’s a matter of personal preference and logical reasoning. I’d say if you can afford it, why not?
Also, check out my posts on 4 Ways to Keep Your Vacuum Cleaner in Tip Top Condition and Why You Need A Vacuum Cleaner (and Why a Broom Just Won’t Work!).
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by Lindsay on March 12, 2010
These days, I walk into the electrical store and I see different vacuum models and brands. I enjoy chatting with the salesperson and act like I’ve no experience whatsoever in buying vacuum, just to see what he/she would recommend based on my needs! After doing this a few times, I’ve compiled a list of the types of vacuums and their most suitable functions (a million thanks to the helpful salespersons I’ve met in different stores!)
In general, a vacuum can work on different surfaces (unless specified) and they are built to be portable and user-friendly. I’m awed at the fact that vacuums come in different size, shape, and design to meet specific purposes. To know which one suit you best, here’s a list of vacuum type and function:
1. Upright Vacuum
Good for carpets but most models today can work on wood floor, tiled floor, and hard surfaces. Overall, they are cheaper than canister vacuums. Since it is upright, you don’t have to bend over much and you can keep a comfortable posture when vacuuming. Most models also come with soft bristles to avoid floor scratches. More advanced models include pet hair removal feature and good filtration system, making it more popular among pet owners. Here’s my review on Best Upright Vacuum Cleaner.
2. Canister Vacuum
Canister models are a popular choice because they are practical. With a wide range of price, you get to choose a model (and brand) that suits you best. They also work on carpet and floor surface, giving a thorough cleaning because of the better suction power. They come in bag or bagless feature and most models have a more compact design these days. Easy to store and lightweight, they are easy to lug around house or office space. Check out my review on Best Canister Vacuum Cleaner.
3. Stick Vacuum
Ideal for light-duty cleaning, stick vacuum or Sweeper conveniently replaces the traditional carpet sweeper. They work best on bare floors but can be used for light cleanups on carpet. Storage is easy because it’s designed to be lightweight and compact. It is also not expensive. Read my post on the best stick vacuum: Vacuum Cleaner Best Buy.
4. Robotic Vacuum
This is ideal for those who have no time to clean or in need of quick house cleaning. This vacuum power on with a button press and helps you save time by roaming the house on its own while picking up dirt and dust. This is an impressive technology that does the cleaning for you while you are busy doing something else. However, they are expensive. The models can range anywhere between $190 to more than $300. I think that it’s good for long term use. Here’s my recommendation on the best robot vacuum: Best Robot Vacuum Cleaner.
I have a few other tips (5 Tips How to Choose the Best Vacuum Cleaner and 4 Ways to Keep Your Vacuum Cleaner in Tip Top Condition) that you can read and share with your friends. Overall, choosing the most suitable vacuum is important because you are making an investment here; so do give your money its worth!
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by Lindsay on March 10, 2010
I’d like to share a secret with you- do you know that you save A LOT of money if you can just extend the use of say, half of your household appliances? Repairs and replacements need money. I’ve used up quite a lot of money just to fix my microwave oven, shower heater, cooking stove, television (and the list goes on…). Same goes for my vacuum cleaners. It was not until sometime later that I learned from a friend how to keep them in tip top condition, with some simple and easy-to-do steps. I’ll share those steps with you right here.
Here are the steps to maintain your vacuum cleaner:
(1) Take Time to Clean Debris and Dirt off the Roller Brush
I like to pay attention to the roller brush because if it’s filled with dirt, my vacuum cannot work well. The roller brush takes debris and dirt off the floor/carpet. It’s quite easy to clean actually. Usually, I’d use a sharp scissor to take out clumps of hair or dirt. After that I use a damp sponge to clean the brush. Voila! It’s as good as new again.
(2) Replace Vacuum Cleaner Bags Every 2 Months
I make it a point to change my cleaner bags every 2 months once (depending on your usage, you can change it every month). Cleaner bags hold dust and debris. When I replace the bags, I sometimes add baking soda or powder beans into the bag. It helps prevent foul odor plus I get a whiff of sweet aroma whenever I vacuum!
(3) Dust the Inside of Your Vacuum
Yes, not only your floor needs dusting, the inside of your vacuum must be kept clean because that’s where all the debris and allergen from your house is trapped in. You can also use a wet cloth to wipe the inside of the vacuum.
(4) Replace Belts and Filter Every 6 Months
I’ve had a bad experience with clogged filter on my vacuum. You see, my second son suffers from asthma and he’s allergic to dust. There was once he suddenly felt difficulty in breathing even though I had cleaned the house thoroughly. Then, I realized I had problem with my vacuum cleaner filter because I forgot to change it for many months. What a lesson! Clogged filter makes it hard to trap allergens. Now, I always make it a point to change my filter every 6 months. To remember, I mark it down on the date I visit the dentist. And that’s about every 6 months.
There are some signs if your vacuum needs professional fixing. Look out for these signs:
a) Burning electrical smell
b) Poor cleaning even though all the other parts are in good working condition (bag, belt, and roller brush)
c) Machine making more noise than it usually does
d) Difficult to push machine when you vacuum
If you want to know how you can choose the best vacuum cleaner, here is my post on 5 Tips How to Choose the Best Vacuum Cleaner.
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by Lindsay on March 9, 2010
Before vacuums became popular, broom was the only thing I had to count on for my chores. Not that it’s bad, but I was secretly wishing that someone would come up with better ways for housekeeping. Maybe someone can design a machine that cleans my floors so well I don’t have to deal with the dust. Anything besides the traditional broom and mop method is an improvement for me.
Why won’t a broom work? Well, read on and see if you agree with me.
(1) Cleaning With a Broom Takes Ages
Whenever I want to sweep the floor, I dread using a broom. It takes up much more time because I sweep in such a way to reduce the amount of dust that goes up in the air (hey, I’ll sneeze!). Then, after sweeping comes the mopping part. I take up another hour just to do that. Usually, I can’t spare that much time. With my kids running late for classes (plus I don’t have a helper), I just find it hard to do both. That’s why I need a vacuum cleaner. One that works on both wet and dry surfaces would be great. Otherwise, a machine that gets rid of dust (and allergen) seems good enough for me.
(2) When the Sweeping Stops, the Dust Is Still There
Sweeping alone isn’t enough because the dust that rises up to the air will eventually settle on floor. That’s why I always need to mop right after. Working with a vacuum cleaner cuts down the hassle. I clean more effectively because there is a filter system in the machine that absorbs allergens. I don’t have to worry about collecting settled dust. Isn’t that just great?
(3) You Cannot Clean Your Carpet with a Broom
No one cleans their carpet with a broom- it’s just impossible! A broom can only be used on hard floors and not on carpets. And I know that carpets accumulate dust very quickly. So, if you have carpeting at home, you surely need a vacuum cleaner. Check out my thoughts on 5 Tips to Choose the Best Vacuum Cleaner.
(4) Everyone Likes a Good Product
Well, there is a simple and clear reason why vacuums are more popular than brooms these days- it’s a great product! It saves time and is easy to use. With a little more money, you get a machine that lets you finish your cleaning chore in half the time. It’s like having a personal helper to do your chores. Getting the vacuum cleaner was one of my best purchases. I can’t begin to tell you how much I appreciate the extra time I get to spend with my kids after I finish my chores quickly. And for the first time in my life, I worry less. I know that the vacuum cleaner will do a good job for me.
For more tips, check out 4 Ways to Keep Your Vacuum Cleaner in Tip Top Condition.
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by Lindsay on March 6, 2010
Like all smart shoppers, I’m sure you like to know your products before you buy them. When I first started buying vacuum cleaners, I get confused! There are just too many brands in the market, and each one seems to work just fine (though I don’t understand why the price can vary quite a bit!). I wished someone had shared these tips with me before. That way, I’d save so much time and money in choosing the models.
Some of my readers ask me, “Lindsay, do I really need a vacuum cleaner?”
Well, I’d say YES- and here is Why You Need A Vacuum Cleaner (and Why a Broom Just Won’t Work!).
To make your life easier, I’ve made up a list of personal tips on how to choose that best vacuum cleaner.
TIP 1: Choose a Model That Works Well With Carpet AND Floor
Most vacuum cleaners today can work on both surfaces, but people still make the mistake of choosing a vacuum that cannot work on both surfaces. What a waste of money! If you have hard floors (tile or wood), canister works best because it’s more versatile. Or, if you clean a lot of carpet, then go for upright models (they have stronger suction power). I have to tell you that stronger power may mean using up more electric energy.
TIP 2: Your Vacuum Must Have Good Filtration System
I am sensitive to dust and that’s why this is very important for me. But, even if you have high dust-tolerance, you need a good vacuum that works against dust, pollen, allergens. Most vacuums today have a few types of filter (standard, lifetime, S Class, and HEPA). If you or anyone at home has asthma, S Class and HEPA works best because it traps 100% allergen. The more sophisticated the filtration system, the more you need to fork out for the vacuum.
TIP 3: Check Out the Small Details
Have you ever bought something without trying to see how it fits? Well, that’s the last mistake anyone should make. When choosing your vacuum, explore the model. Touch, see, feel, and see whether it’s adjustable (to fit your posture and height). What about the weight? It’ll be difficult to lug around a heavy model. The wheels should let you move it on almost any surface without much difficulty. What about the cord length? Is it convenient for you to reach most parts of the house without need to switch power socket?
TIP 4: If You Can’t Work The Switches, Forget It.
As good as the vacuum may be, it’s quite pointless if you find it difficult to operate. If you need to look for the right buttons and adjust settings every time you use it, then it’s just not worth the time and effort. In short, it must be user-friendly!
TIP 5: Can You Get Replacements and Buy Accessories Easily?
If your vacuum breaks down, can you get it fixed without much problem? Some vacuum parts are so rare you need to wait for ages to get a replacement part. Some people fail to consider this. Similar to car purchase- it’s just too costly and difficult to get spare parts for some cars (not worth the time/money/effort). You need to choose a vacuum that can be easily replaced/ fixed.
To keep you vacuum in good condition and use it longer, here are 4 Ways to Keep Your Vacuum Cleaner in Tip Top Condition.
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by Lindsay on March 2, 2010
Hi, welcome to my Best Vacuum Cleaner reviews blog, I’m Lindsay. My friends admired my house for how clean it is, and often they would wonder aloud how I manage to keep it that way all the time with three kids and a dog roaming around the house. Even my hubby sometimes wonder how I fit cleaning into my busy schedule. Then when I start telling them all about my favorite types of vacuum cleaners, how to choose the best vacuum cleaner and so on, my friends go ooh and aah and ask me which one they should buy, and my husband said, “why don’t you write a blog about it?” And that’s how this blog came to be. 
Ok, since this is my first post, why don’t we start with some sort of introduction? I suppose we all know what a vacuum cleaner is (the first vacuum cleaner go as far back as 150 years ago!). But do we all know how many types of vacuum cleaners there are, and which one is suitable for our homes?
The basic principle of the vacuum cleaner is this: it uses an air pump to make what is called a “partial vacuum” inside the appliance so that dirt can be sucked up the hose into it. Then the dirt ends up in a dustbag or cyclone, so that you can get rid of it afterward. All vacuum cleaners work like this, but they come in different types and here are the more common ones for home use:
- Canister vacuum cleaner (cylinder vacuum) – the motor and dustbag come in a canister unit, and the dust is sucked through a flexible hose. Different kinds of vacuum heads can be attached.
- Upright vacuum cleaner – the cleaning head is attached to the handle and bag. It uses a brushroll or beater to remove dust by sweeping or beating it up.
- Hand-held vacuum cleaner - small sized vacuum cleaners for cleaning up small spills. Usually battery operated.
- Robotic vacuum cleaner – these vacuum cleaners move by its own, going around the house in a random pattern, removing dust as it goes.
The canister type is popular for the easier maneuverability of its cleaning head. This means it can clean hard to reach areas, corners and crevices where upright vacuums can’t. But the upright vacuum cleaners are more effective because of the beater or brushroll, and they are good carpet cleaners as well.
If you have hardwood or tiled floor and can’t spend time even for vacuuming, the robotic vacuum cleaners are the best solution. These flattish, plate-like little robots vacuum your floors on their own without you having to monitor them.
In my opinion, vacuum cleaners are one of the best things men invented for us housewives, but they probably did it for their own good (they’ll have cleaner houses as a result!). Well, I have more to share about how to choose the best vacuum cleaner and the best vacuum cleaners reviews in this blog, so check them out here.
