Cordless Vacuum Cleaners
Cordless vacuum cleaners can be an invaluable alternative to traditional corded models. These vacuum cleaners are plugged into a charger when not in use, and a rechargeable battery powers the vacuum during cleaning. Freedom from a power cord enables cleaning of an entire house without the need to unplug and re-plug the vacuum in every room or even sometimes in multiple parts of the room. In addition, it eliminates the multiple safety risks associated with vacuum power cords, which include tripping, catching the cord on an object during cleaning, and accidentally pulling the cord out of the wall.
Moreover, vacuum cleaners that are cordless facilitate cleaning outdoors, in a garage, or in other locations where a power outlet might not be conveniently accessible. They are available in many lightweight models with or without bags.
One disadvantage to cordless models over traditional corded models is that the charge will eventually run out. A vacuum plugged into an electrical outlet can be used indefinitely, while use of a cordless model is limited by the charge it carries. In addition, as with other rechargeable tools, a vacuum losing charge will also begin to lose power and thus suction. In purchasing a cordless vacuum, it is important to consider the charge life of the battery and choose a model with an acceptable charge life given the size of your home and your cleaning requirements. Additionally, one should carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions in order to maximize the duration of each charge cycle and battery life.
If you think that a cordless vacuum would be beneficial within your home cleaning regime, then consider reading reviews by sites like allgreatvacuums.com to get an idea of what different cordless vacuums can offer you. You might find that you prefer a corded vacuum when reading the reviews, but at least you can make an informed decision when going to purchase.
Automatic Vacuum Cleaners
The iRobot Roomba leads the industry in robotic or automatic vacuum cleaners, although other companies have also begun to generate and market robotic vacuum models as well. These models can be pricier than many manual vacuum models with comparable power because of the sheer convenience of their use. Not only do they clean the floor with no effort by the user except for a simple programming step, they can also be instructed to operate at a specific time, such as when the user is not home.
Robotic vacuum cleaners are cordless and operate on a rechargeable battery which is recharged when not in use by attachment to a home base. Newer models can home to the base at the end of cleaning and thus are self-charging as well as largely self-operating. These models of vacuum cleaner feature a contact bumper that alerts the unit to contact with furniture or walls. In addition, an infrared signal and sensor prevent the device from falling from ledges, and enable the user to restrict its movement within a desired area. Dirt picked up by a robotic vacuum cleaner is trapped in a bin within the robot. Earlier models required manual emptying by the user after the vacuum had completed its cycles, but newer models are able to empty their dirt bins upon docking to their home bases.
Perhaps the biggest disadvantage to robotic vacuum cleaners is their lack of cleaning power. While they are effective on hard floors and thinner carpets, these models are not designed for use in thick or shaggy carpeting. Their roller brushes can become entangled with longer carpet or rug fibers and they do not have the suction power of other vacuum cleaner models for cleaning thicker carpets or rugs.
Canister Vacuum Cleaners
Sometimes a canister vacuum cleaner is an ideal alternative to a traditional upright. Because the main cleaning tool is detached from the heavier elements, canister models enable the user to wield only the wand and are thus very user lightweight and easily maneuverable. The canister portion can remain in one place for more of the cleaning process, unlike traditional upright models in which the entire vacuum must be moved at one time during floor cleaning.
One of the major advantages of the canister models is in cleaning stairs. When cleaning stairs with a traditional upright, the user has the option of working with the entire unit, which can be heavy and cumbersome. Additionally, the suction and roller brush of an upright model might not reach effectively into the edges and corners along stairs. Alternatively, the upholstery attachment of an upright model can be used to clean stairs, but these are usually fairly small and the cleaning of an entire stairwell can take some time.
In contrast, canister vacuum models often feature a long hose with a larger, flat wand. Additionally, the canister portion is often small and compact enough that it will sit on an individual stair step. This can enable the user to leave the canister on the floor, a stair step or a landing area while cleaning effectively with the large, flat wand. For the same reasons, a canister model can also be advantageous in cleaning upholstery and furniture. They are available in both bagged and bagless models.
Sources that will be useful:
- “Roomba vs Eufy Comparison Review”, robotbox.net
- “Vacuum cleaner”, en.wikipedia.org
- “2019’s Best Canister Vacuum – Top 5 Models’ Review”, vacuumfanatics.com
