Vacuum Cleaners: Upright Vs. Canister

By Author: Woolley Thomas
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An upright vacuum is one that has both a suction head as well as motor located in the one unit. The vacuum cleaner is pushed by the user. The canister vacuum consists of a body which is wheeled and is pulled by the user who uses the nozzle to clean dirt. The following are a series of pros and cons for both of these vacuum cleaners.

Canister Vacuum Cleaders

Advantages

For vacuuming under objects such as coffee tables and furniture, canister vaccums are much easier to maneuver. They are also typically more lightweight and compact which is ideal for multi-level homes. The heads of the canister vacuum cleaners are quite light, therefore making it easy to hold and clean areas which are too small for other cleaners.

Another advantage of these vacuum cleaners is that they are able to be stored in small spaces and typically come with cords that are retractable, adding extra convenience to an already convenient machine.

Disadvantages

Some people do not like to use the extra energy to pull the canister vacuum cleaner behind them. Occasionally, because a person is not able to see as well behind ...
... them, the canister may hit furniture and cause minor damage as well. Additionally, canister vacuum cleaners typically come with separate heads for floor and carpet meaning that a manual change is required. Canister cleaners are also more expensive on average.

Upright Vacuum Cleaners

Advantages

Many claim that the upright vacuum cleaners are more convenient and easy to maneuver, particularly the self-propelled options that can move with ease in either a forward or reverse motion. Uprights can also be purchased that combine the reach of canister vacuum cleaners with attachments that can clean any surface from upholstery to stair corners. There are even uprights on the market today that have hoses that reach extraordinary distances which are excellent for staircases. Most uprights easily transition from carpet to floor suction without the need for a manual change. They are also easy to empty as many are now bagless and require no messy bag replacement.

Disadvantages

Uprights are often not as able to reach small spaces but detachable hoses often negate this disadvantage. The biggest flaw of the vacuum is that it is considerably more bulky which makes it harder to carry on stairs.

Which is the Best Choice?

When you are looking to purchase a new vacuum, you should consider your personal preferences and needs. If you have lots of stairs in your home, a canister would probably be the best choice although there are also many light uprights that could easily do the trick.

The easiest way to choose among the many different models that are available for purchase is to determine which of the many vacuum cleaners is best suited to your cleaning needs and your physical abilities. Many stores provide customers with the ability to test out their vacuum cleaners before purchase so that you can determine which of the options is best for your needs and those of your home.

Suzi Sinclair is a interior designer and writes about decorating on a dime. For more information on Miele vacuum cleaners and home improvement, visit www.hardtofinditems.com.