Make sure that your purchase is through a reputable company that will not only be around in the future, but is known for quality products and customer service. Evaluate Lifestyle Needs Whether you are young or old, live in an apartment or a house, there is a cleaning product made to fit your every need. Consider these needs when deciding what type of vacuum is appropriate, such as whether to buy an upright vacuum or a canister. While canisters were once thought to be ideal for a larger variety of floor surfaces, uprights today have added features and on-board tools that make the units more versatile than ever before for all types of cleaning. Uprights are easier to use and more effective at cleaning larger areas in the home, and most vacuums sold in the U.S. are uprights.
Product design is also an important consideration.
For example, seniors or those with arthritis, in particular, have concerns regarding a cleaner's weight because of carrying and pushing considerations. Manufacturers have addressed this issue by offering lightweight, but effective cleaning products, such as the Dirt Devil RoomMate. At less than six pounds, the RoomMate works as hard as a full-size vacuum, but weighs half as much. While the majority of households purchase an upright, those households that require more frequent cleaning, due to kids or pets, may also opt for smaller lightweight products, such as hand vacs and stick vacs, which are ideal for quick pick-ups between regular cleanings. For example, a metal unit will invariably cost more than its plastic-molded counterpart, although the motor may be identical.