What Are the Main Differences Between the Different Kinds of Vacuums On the Market?

In some cases, customers who are shopping for a new vacuum know the brand they prefer, but they aren’t sure what model to purchase. Different kinds of Vacuums offer different benefits and disadvantages for homeowners. Here are some of the key points to consider when choosing between canister, upright, or stick vacuums.

How Do Canister Vacuums Work?

Canister vacuums are two-piece appliances that consist of a unit that houses all of the mechanical and electrical components and a hose that attaches to a cleaning nozzle or head that cleans the floor or other surfaces. The major advantage of a canister vac is that it offers extra cleaning power thanks to the larger size motor that comes with most models.

These compact cleaning machines are ideal for everyday use and are an all-in-one vacuum cleaner. Canister vacuums can clean carpets, bare floors, area rugs, upholstery, drapes, bookcases, and anything in between. These vacuums have a variety of tools, attachments, floor brushes, and accessories to fit every need and cleaning task at hand.

Canister vacuums come in either bagged or bagless styles. The bagless canisters usually feature a clear dust bin in which the dirt is collected. The bagged canisters feature either disposable dust bags or reusable bags.  Bagged canisters are more hygienic making them the ideal choice for allergy, asthma, and COPD sufferers.

Compared to an upright vacuum, canisters have these other advantages:

• They are typically lighter in weight and easier to use
• Canisters tend to be quieter than upright models
• The housing is mounted on wheels that is easy to pull across floors
• Canisters typically have larger bags or dirt canisters
• Have more attachments to choose from

The typical cons of canister vacuums may or may not be a problem for you, including:

• The user bends over more often than with an upright or stick model
• Typically takes up more storage area in closet or utility room
• Some assembly may be required before initial use
• Some users don’t like dragging the canister behind them
• Typically cost more than an upright model

Canisters have one last advantage over upright and stick models. Because they have fewer working parts, they tend to last longer than uprights and sticks. This feature makes them more cost-effective over the long term.

Pros and Cons of an Upright Vacuum

Upright vacuums are the most popular type of vacuum because they are found everywhere vacuums are sold. These models have one distinct advantage over canister vacuums - they clean carpets better.

Uprights come with on-board cleaning attachments that usually include a dusting brush, crevice tool, and an upholstery tool. With most brands, you can choose between a bagged or bagless upright. When it comes to those who suffer from allergies, bagged vacuums are always more hygienic no matter what style vacuum you choose – canister, upright, or stick.

Upright vacuums come in single motor and dual-motor models. The single motor is driven by one motor at one speed that gives average suction power when cleaning carpets and bare floors. They are an all-around choice for general purpose use, but they are not as powerful as dual-motor vacuums.

“No matter which type of vacuum you choose, Think Vacuums has the right brand and model for you.”

Dual-motor uprights are driven by two motors that are individually controlled by an easy-to-reach switch. Dual motor upright vacuum cleaners are ideal for cleaning both carpets and bare floors. They are designed with one motor dedicated to the brush roller and a separate motor dedicated to suction and power. With a dual motor upright vacuum cleaner, you can easily transition between carpeting and hard flooring by the flip of a switch. Simply turn on the brush roller when cleaning carpets or when you need a little extra cleaning power and turn it off for straight suction when cleaning bare floors. Further pros and cons of upright vacuums include:

Pros	Cons
Generally cost less than canister models	Typically weigh more than canister models
Have wider cleaning paths for faster use	Are noisier than canister vacuums
Cleans deeper into carpets	More difficult to maneuver on floors and up and down stairs
Easier to store in a smaller area	Not as effective when cleaning corners

What Is The Difference Between A Canister And A Stick Vacuum?

While canister and stick vacuums do the same job overall, the way they work and the convenience they allow you can be different. Whether you should choose a canister, upright, or stick vacuum depends on a few factors:

• How large is your home, apartment or place of business?If you only have a small space, a stick vacuum is often a better choice.
• How often will you use the vacuum?
• How much storage space do you have for the vacuum?
• How long would you like the vacuum to last?
• How often are you prepared to change the filter?
• What is your budget?

Stick vacuums are limited by the smaller overall unit size and less powerful small size engine. A stick vacuum may be right for you if you want to save space and do not plan to vacuum very often. If you get a lot of traffic through your home or business, a canister vacuum might be the right choice.

We hope we have provided enough information for you to make a decision. No matter which type of vacuum you choose, Think Vacuums has the right brand and model for you. We carry many types of vacuums, as well as tools and attachments so you can get the most out of your vacuum.

Resources and References:

• Vacuum Cleaner Types Guide