How to Choose a Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

Handheld vacuum cleaners are perfect for small spills and messes where you don't want to take out your big vacuum cleaner.
Before you buy a handheld vacuum cleaner, be sure to know what your requirements are. Although handheld vacuums might
seem like an easy item to purchase, there are a few considerations that you should take into account before making
the wrong decision:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Weight of the handheld vacuum cleaner - since the vacuum is handheld, you want to make sure it does not weigh too much. Take into
   account how much you can comfortably lift to make sure the handheld vacuum you purchase does not cause you aches and pains
   or make you exert too much energy when you use it.

2. Amount of dirt the handheld vacuum cleaner can hold - some models have larger dirt cup capacities than others. If you plan on using the handheld vacuum often or you plan on cleaning very messy areas, you would want one with a larger capacity.

3. Ease of use - Even if the handheld vacuum meets all your requirements, you want to make sure it is easy to use. Check out the handle of the vacuum - does it seem comfortable to you? Also check out how the dirt cup is emptied. Is it easily emptied or do you have to stick your hand inside to empty it? You might also look into if the vacuum can be mounted up on a wall for storage.

4. Battery time - How long can you use the handheld vacuum before recharging it? Some only work for a few minutes before having to recharge, others last a lot longer.

5. Attachments - What types of attachments does this vacuum have? Does it have an extension attachment? Does it have a brush type attachment?

6. Price - Although this is an obvious on, consider how much it is worthwhile to spend on a handheld vacuum. If you only plan on using it occasionally, obviously you can skimp a bit on functionality. If you plan on using this on a regular basis, a more expensive model might be worth the investment.

7. Warrantee - does the handheld vacuum have a warrantee? For how long?

Tips & Warnings

• Handheld vacuums tend to die faster than larger ones.

[tachic]

on 2/18/2009 Great article- I just need one that won't break with all the dog fur it needs to suck up!