Features That Make Vacuuming Easier and More Effective

By
Features That Make Vacuuming Easier and More Effective

Everyone wants clean, plush carpet and slick hardwood floors. However, vacuuming can be a cumbersome, time-consuming task when it involves tugging around a bulky vacuum, untangling the power cord, and switching outlets multiple times. Luckily, there are new vacuum cleaners that make the task less of a hassle and leave your floors extra clean with some effective and convenient features.

Long power cord

Depending on how large your rooms are, you’ll probably appreciate a long power cord that doesn’t force you to move constantly from outlet to outlet. Of course, you don’t want the cord to get in the way of the vacuum head; some models have a clip that keeps the cord out from underfoot. The Hoover UH70120 even features a foot pedal that automatically retracts the power cord, saving you the trouble of winding it up.

HEPA filter

Sealed HEPA filters in vacuum cleaners are especially beneficial if you or a family member suffer from allergies. The filter is capable of trapping the most common allergens, pollens, and dust mites. Everyone will breathe better without those allergens resting in carpets and furniture upholstery. Look for filters that you can wash off periodically instead of replacing it.

Accessories

Most vacuum cleaners come with an assortment of attachments that provide versatile cleaning functions.

  • Extendable wands let you reach ceiling corners to suck up cobwebs and clean all the surfaces of your staircase.
  • A power nozzle is most effective for cleaning pile carpets and rugs.
  • Dust brushes are useful for cleaning up dust and hair from hard and soft surfaces.
  • Crevice tools let you reach every small nook and cranny, such as between the sofa cushions, where you’ll typically find all sorts of food, dirt, and unidentifiable particles.

Adjustable height

When you can adjust the vacuum cleaner height for different types of carpet, it will be easier to push back and forth and you’ll get the most dirt up. A low setting is sufficient for low-pile carpet, while thicker, plusher carpet requires a high setting.

Accessible controls

You’ll find that it’s easier to turn the vacuum cleaner on and off or adjust the settings when the controls are located on the handle instead of at the base.

Edge cleaner

A vacuum head that has a wide opening can reach dirt right up against the wall and in tight corners.

Full-container indicator

A bagged vacuum cleaner should include a full-container indicator so you know when the bag needs to be replaced. You should change out the bag when it’s filled about three-quarters full to get the most thorough suction.

Self-propelled

Although this feature typically makes the vacuum cleaner bulkier and heavier to carry, it helps you push it back and forth with the transmission and drive system.

Brittany Rowland Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

Related Top 10 Lists

Top 10 Vacuum Cleaners

Top 10 Vacuum Cleaners

The best vacuum cleaners are durable but lightweight enough to swivel around and under furniture. They should get up dirt close to walls, on stairs, and in tight spaces. See the vacuum cleaner comparison and ratings below with a link to the full review of each…. [more]

Top 10 Stick Vacuum Cleaners

Top 10 Stick Vacuum Cleaners

A stick vacuum is ideal for spot cleaning hardwoods, rugs, and thin carpets. You should not expect the performance of a full-size vacuum, however. We chose our top 10 stick vacuums based on the following qualities: Good suction, Handles hardwoods and carpets, Wheels don’t scratch hardwoods, Dirt cups transparent and easy to empty with minimal mess…. [more]

Top 10 Mini Vacuum Cleaners

Top 10 Mini Vacuum Cleaners

Mini hand-held vacuum cleaners are a convenient tool for cleaning up crumbs, stains, and pet hair quickly without lugging out the full-size vacuum. We chose 10 mini vacuums on the basis of the following traits: Lightweight and easy to maneuver, Easy to clean out the bag/dust container and filters, Powerful suction and thorough cleaning… [more]

Filed Under: AppliancesMini Vacuum CleanersStick Vacuum CleanersVacuum Cleaners