Vacuum Blues, What Kind to Buy?

**Kaos Kitty** · 10-06-2008, 04:31 PM

Our vacuum lasted for about 15 years, but now it is completely broken. We kept using it and "fixing" it (aka duct tape and jiggling) the past couple years, but now it has totally given up the ghost. No hope. No warranty.

It was a Kenmore canister from Sears, which used to be a good vacuum. Now "Google-ing" vacuums, I hear too much about the sucky Sears service, including experiences from my own mother. Not to mention the $200 for the extra, very necessary 5 year warranty (they tend to break in the first year, as did our current vacuum and then was fine after being " fixed". Makes ya wonder...) That means that a new Kenmore canister, averaging $450-$550 with warranty would really be $650-$750 plus hassle. So... we researched vacuums some more and my Dh would like the Dyson canister vacuum, about $600 and it NEVER goes on sale. We have been watching them for the past 2 years. Drooling, but not actually saving up a little each month like good frugal people should.

Now I do have an account that I put $40/month away in meant for large purchases (like tv, couch, and okay, okay..vacuum..) but it is also is in case we have to take our 11 year old cat for an emergency vet visit. And our TV is keeps turning red and get squiggly lines on it...and ...I hate to spend the money.

Now, it is Dh who does all the vacuuming. And the $50 Dirt Devil stick he has been using is really meant for hard floors. And yes between my hair and cat hair it picks up in it's bristles we could macrame some new friends for the cat.

So... I am looking for some moral support in spending my $400 of saved vacuum money (I still need to come up with another $200), and some suggestions/experiences on the best vacuums to buy. Thanks.

**Shoshana** · 10-06-2008, 07:31 PM

Dyson. Unequivocally the best vacuum cleaner AND the best customer service via 800 number, nearly 24-7. The ads are true. It NEVER loses suction. What that machine picks up is amazing. I'll never own anything else.

**Domestic Gal** · 10-06-2008, 08:56 PM

I have a kirby and love it. But I only use this vacuum for the living room dining room area rug and 2 bedrooms. I have not pets either. But it will run you at least $900 so probably not an option for you. They do have lifetime warranty though.

**JENROY** · 10-07-2008, 09:15 AM

I have to agree with Shoshanna...the Dyson is the best vacuum I have ever owned. They're expensive, but I bought mine second hand for $150--best deal ever!

**stinkbug** · 10-07-2008, 11:25 AM

I have a Riccar, which is I think considered an indeustrial vac. I absolutely love it and it is 8 years old. Bought it from a local dealer, with local service. It was about 400.00. Personally, I hate the Dysons. My dd has one and the attachmesnts are a nightmare to use and the thing is junk. JMO. I know a lot of people swear by them....I just swear AT them!

**della92** · 10-07-2008, 12:03 PM

Miele, I've only had mine for 3 years, but it is still working as good as the day I got it. It's a canister vac. Before this one, I have never had a vacuum last much more than a year!

**Telephus44** · 10-07-2008, 12:39 PM

I have a Hoover Windtunnel (upright). It is noisy and heavy, but great on pet hair. My only complaint is that it goes through belts pretty quickly - once every 6 months or so. We paid $30 and got 4 packs of belts a few years ago. We've owned it just over 5 years, and I would recommend it.

**stinkbug** · 10-07-2008, 12:40 PM

Miele and Riccar are comparable and usually sold at the same dealer. I also like supporting the smaller local shops where I KNOW they will take care of me when I need service or repairs, or just a small part.

**Goodwin17** · 10-08-2008, 12:34 PM

I have a Dyson my husband was able to get cheaper because he works for Lowes. I wouldn't be without it. It is the best vacuum ever in my opinion.

**Russ** · 10-08-2008, 12:45 PM

Dyson. We have 4 dogs, that shed. Need I say more?

**Buc-O-Mama** · 10-09-2008, 11:23 AM

We have been married almost 19 years and bought our second cheap Eureka about 2 years ago. Our first one had a bag and this one is bagless. We buy the best one we can for 80-100 dollars then use it to death. Our second one is still going strong, with 3 kids, 3 cats and 2 dogs. The pricer ones might be nice, but we've had really good luck and longevity with our Eurekas.

**Teresa T** · 10-09-2008, 07:32 PM

I may have to get a Dyson. Are they pretty light? And do they come with good attachments?

I bought a Kenmore a few years ago. It cost around $250-$300. Thought that was a bit pricey. It picks up well and has good attachments. It is however heavy and the clip that holds the hose in place is poorly designed; It is difficult to properly clip the hose in.

**JENROY** · 10-12-2008, 12:28 PM

They are NOT light if you need to pick it up and carry it. It's an upright and the handle pops out to get the edges/corners/etc. It has all the standard attachments and a lifetime hepa filter. It's bagless and it has a trigger-type release to empty the canister. My favorite vacuum ever!!

**Trishagirl** · 10-12-2008, 02:13 PM

I had a Eureka vacuum and mine broke last week so we went shopping l got a dirt devil it's light which I like cause I'm a petite person. It's a baggless which I've never owned before. It's still in the box dh hasn't put it together yet. We have a cat & a dog, so I hope it works good on picking up their hair. I'll let you know. Got it at Target for about $50 which is a great deal for me.

**thehughughes** · 10-12-2008, 02:44 PM

I love my dyson. My aunt,MIL, and SIL, all bought one because of mine. I purchased mine at sears with a 15% off purchase coupon 4 years ago. My MIL purchased hers with a 20% off coupon at Bed Bath and Beyond. It all helps.