Types of Vacuum Cleaner: Understand the Best Options for Your Needs

Choosing a vacuum cleaner can be hectic, especially if it's your first time. You must draw up a long list of features with obvious options like the design, suction power, and price. However, it's essential to understand the different types of vacuums to get something that can truly handle your cleaning needs. This article explains the main types of vacuum cleaners to help reduce your selection headache.

Understanding the Different Types of Vacuum Cleaners

So, without wasting too much of your time, let's get straight to our list of the main types of vacuums in the market today. Choose one that fits your specific use cases.

1. Upright Vacuum Cleaners

The name alone says it all. These vacuums use an upright design where the motor, suction head, and dust bag are integrated into a single upright unit. Their robust design makes them a preferred choice for deep cleaning tasks. The motor and suction head are combined into a single unit, which makes them powerful and effective for carpet cleaning. A good suction power for upright vacuums typically ranges from 100 to 200 AW, or roughly 5,000-10,000 Pa. They are generally heavier, with most models weighing between 10-20 pounds.

Pros:

• High suction power, ideal for deep cleaning carpets
• The upright design gives you more control when cleaning.
• Often comes with attachments for versatile cleaning
• Bagged and bagless models are available
• The flexible brushroll can provide a wider cleaning path.
• Cordless models offer easy portability and storage.

Cons:

• They tend to be heavier, making them less convenient for multi-floor cleaning.
• It may need extra attachment to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Use case:

The powerful suction and flexible design make them ideal for cleaning large carpeted areas or high-traffic areas.

2. Canister Vacuum Cleaners

Canister vacuum cleaners offer more flexibility compared to upright models. In these vacuums, the motor and dustbin are housed in a separate canister, which connects to the suction head via a hose. The hose length typically ranges from 6 to 10 feet. And weighing between 8 and 20 pounds, the design allows for easier maneuverability, especially around furniture and hard-to-reach places. Most canisters have a corded design, although some models offer a cordless option. They generally deliver between 220 to 250 AW of suction power, which is effective for picking up dust and debris.

Pros:

• The flexible horse provides better maneuverability in tight spaces like stairs and under furniture.
• Quieter operation compared to upright vacuums
• Highly versatile with compatible attachments.
• Usually lighter and easier to carry

Cons:

• It can be hard to move around due to the separate canister and hose design， especially when moving between floors.
  
• Needs extra storage for the canister and horse.

Use cases:

Their impressive suction power and maneuverability make them ideal for cleaning around furniture and hard-to-reach places. Canister vacuums suit various floor types, including hardwood, tiles, and carpets.

3.Stick Vacuum Cleaners

Stick vacuum cleaners are lightweight and slim, perfect for quick clean-ups and small spaces. These vacuums usually weigh less than 10 pounds, with common suction power typically ranging from 100 to 150 AW. You can lift them to clean ceilings, fans, kitchen drawers, and other hard-to-reach places. These vacuums are easy to store and convenient to use, especially for those who need a vacuum that can handle light cleaning tasks without the bulk of a full-sized model. Many stick vacuums are cordless, adding to their convenience.

Pros:

• Their lightweight design makes them highly portable.
• Cordless models offer great convenience
• Most come with rechargeable batteries for cleaning convenience.
• Most have crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and other attachments.
• Some models can convert to handheld vacuums for added versatility

Cons:

• The small dustbin may need frequent emptying.
• The battery may not last too long in cordless versions.

Use case:

Stick vacuums are ideal for quick cleanups on hard floors, stairs, and tight areas. They are perfect for apartments and small homes.

4.Handheld Vacuum Cleaners

Okay, you don't need too much introduction to these compact and convenient vacuums. These battery-powered vacuums use motor-driven fans to suck dirt and debris into the dust cap or bag. The suction power of handheld vacuums typically ranges from 40 to 80 air watts (AW) (around 2,000 Pa to 4,000 Pa), depending on the model. These vacuums are easy to use and can reach tight spaces that larger vacuums cannot.Their handheld, lightweight design (usually weighing between 2-5 pounds) also means you can clean up almost anywhere around your home. A car vacuum cleaner is one of the best examples of this kind of vacuum equipment.

Pros:

• They are compact and portable, easy to use for quick clean-ups
• They are battery-operated to provide more convenience.
• They are lightweight and easy to handle.
• Cordless models are available for added convenience
• They are lightweight and can reach the tightest places and corners.

Cons:

• Most have limited suction power.
  
• They are not suitable for cleaning hard floors and large areas.

Use case:

These vacuums are ideal for small cleaning tasks and perfect for cleaning car interiors, upholstery, and small spills.

5.Robot Vacuum Cleaners

Robot vacuum cleaners represent the latest in cleaning technology. They are small yet powerful devices that can clean your house without manual intervention. With sensors and smart mapping capabilities, robot vacuums navigate your home, mopping floors without manual intervention. Typically, they offer suction power ranging from 2,000 to 6,000 Pa, which is adequate for routine maintenance cleaning. However, higher-end models can provide up to 6,000 or even 8,000 Pa (which is beneficial for homes with pets and carpets). Most robot vacuums weigh between 6 and 12 pounds. They can be programmed to clean on a schedule, ensuring your floors stay clean with minimal effort on your part.

Pros:

• They provide the convenience of cleaning without any manual intervention.
• Vacuums like the eufy S1 Pro come with self-maintenance base stations. This base station can refill the water tank, clean/dry mop pads, and empty the dust bag.
• Their smart navigation can avoid obstacles and clean efficiently.
• Compact design allows cleaning under furniture.
• Some models offer mopping functions for added versatility
• They are easy to carry around, which is ideal for multi-floor cleaning.

Cons:

• Cannot vacuum and clean stairs, windows, or other hard-to-reach areas.
  
• The suction power may be limited compared to upright or canister vacuums.

Use case:

These vacuums are ideal for people with busy schedules looking for hands-free and automated cleaning. They are suited for homes with multiple floors.

6.Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaner

A wet/dry vacuum can clean up both dry debris and dirt particles, as well as liquid spills. Unlike regular vacuums, their design allows them to handle both dry debris and liquids without damaging the motor or filter. Wet/dry vacuums typically have a peak horsepower (HP) rating, which indicates the maximum power the motor can achieve under optimal conditions. Typically, 2-4 HP is enough for general household jobs, while 6 HP or higher is ideal for tougher tasks like cleaning large spills.

Pros:

• Powerful suction for multipurpose cleaning.
  
• They use large and durable collection tanks instead of dust bags.
• Detachable tanks for seamless emptying and cleaning.

Cons:

• They are bulky to carry around and take lots of storage space.
• They can be noisy during cleaning sessions.

Use case:

Best for cleaning areas with frequent spills, like kitchens, garages, and workshops.

7.Central Vacuum Systems

Unlike traditional portable vacuums, these vacuums' motor and dust collection systems are in a central area. You only need to connect the lightweight and long horse to a wall inlet to clean using these vacuums. Canister vacuums typically offer suction power ranging from 450 to 800 AW, which provides strong cleaning performance for various surfaces like carpets, hardwood, and tiles.

Pros:

• The central motor generated powerful suction power.
  
• Their large tanks and filtration systems can be outside the house.
  
• They are ideal for cleaning up multiple rooms and floors.

Cons:

• Central vacuum systems can be expensive to purchase and install.
  
• It's not ideal for small or regular home cleaning tasks.

Use cases:

Ideal for cleaning up large homes and commercial buildings while reducing cleaning noise.

Bagless vs. Bagged Vacuum – Which is Better?

The type of vacuum you choose can be either bagged or bagless.

With a bagged vacuum, you'll need to frequently change the dust bag after filling it up. Usually, the bag has a tight seal, reducing any health risks from dust and allergens. This design is ideal for those who prefer cleanliness and air quality to convenience. However, the ongoing cost of purchasing replacement bags can add up over time.

A bagless vacuum, on the other hand, doesn't use disposable bags to collect dirt/debris. Instead, these vacuums come with inbuilt dustbins or canisters to collect and store dirt and debris. These types of vacuums are more cost-effective because you don't need to purchase disposable bags. However, they can be messy to empty, as dirt and debris can be released into the air when you open the canister.

Overall, the ultimate decision when choosing between these types of vacuum cleaner may depend on personal preferences. Whereas bagged vacuums may be healthier to keep around, their long-term maintenance cost is higher than that of bagless vacuums. Choose what meets your preference!

How to Choose the Right Vacuum for Your Needs

Selecting the right one among the various types of vacuum cleaner units involves several important factors. Here are some essential considerations to help you make the best choice for your home.

1. Floor Type

The type of flooring in your home greatly influences your choice. Carpets require vacuums with strong suction and brushes to lift dirt and debris, while hardwood floors benefit from vacuums that prevent scratches and have gentle suction settings.

You may also like:

How to Keep Your Floors Clean

2. Home Size

The size of your home determines the type of vacuum that will be most efficient. Larger homes may benefit from upright or central vacuums with larger dust capacities, while smaller homes might find stick or handheld vacuums more practical.

You may also like:

Best Robot Vacuum for a Big House

Best Robot Vacuum for Small Apartment

3. Allergies

If anyone in your household has allergies, look for vacuums with HEPA filters. These filters trap allergens and dust, ensuring cleaner air in your home. You can also ensure cleanliness by frequently emptying the dust bag. Robot vacuums can do that automatically on their base stations.

You may also like:

Best Robot Vacuum with Docking Station

4. Pets

Pet owners need vacuums designed to handle pet hair and dander. Models with strong suction, tangle-free brushes, and specialized pet hair attachments are particularly beneficial.

5. Noise Level

Some vacuums can be quite noisy, which might be a concern if you prefer a quieter cleaning experience. Canister and central vacuums are generally quieter options.

6. Budget

Vacuum cleaners are available at a range of prices. Determine your budget and look for models that offer the best value for your money without compromising on essential features.

You may also like:

Budget Friendly Robot Vacuum

7.Smart features

This is mainly for robot vacuum lovers. Premium grade options like the S1 Pro Omni use AI technology to seamlessly navigate your home and draw maps. Its 3D MatrixEye Depth Perception ensures precise navigation around obstacles. This vacuum also comes with Eco-Clean Ozone to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria.

Conclusion

Consumers can select from various types of vacuum cleaner models based on several requirements, such as the type of floor or surface they want to clean. When deciding on a vacuum cleaner, it's vital to understand the various options available. Each type offers unique benefits tailored to different cleaning needs.

FAQs

What vacuum is used for deep cleaning?

An upright vacuum with strong suction power and a rotating brush is highly effective for deep cleaning. These vacuums are designed to agitate carpet fibers and remove embedded dirt and debris. Models with adjustable height settings can adapt to different carpet types, providing thorough cleaning. Some canister vacuums with powerful motors and specialized attachments can also achieve deep cleaning results.

Can a single vacuum work on both carpets and hardwood floors?

Yes, many modern vacuums are designed to work on multiple surfaces. Canister vacuums and some robot models come with adjustable settings that allow them to transition seamlessly between carpets and hardwood floors.

Which vacuum cleaner type is best for pet owners?

Pet owners benefit most from vacuums with strong suction and specialized pet attachments. Canister and upright vacuums with HEPA filters and motorized brush rolls are particularly effective at removing pet hair and dander from various surfaces.

What type of vacuum do professionals use?

Most professionals use commercial-grade vacuums with powerful suction, ample storage, and safe filtration systems. Usually, these can be canisters or wet/dry vacuums, depending on the task.

Which is better: a stick or an upright vacuum?

This depends on personal preference. A stick vacuum is lightweight and portable, with some models providing cordless options for flexible cleaning. However, an upright vacuum provides stronger suction power and larger capacity, making it ideal for heavy-duty cleaning.

What is the difference between HEPA and regular vacuum?

The difference lies in the filtration system. A HEPA vacuum uses a unique type of filter that can trap up to 99.9% of particles and allergens, making them healthy to use. A regular vacuum uses basic filtration systems that cannot capture fine particles.