Vacuum cleaners and robot vacuums buying guide
Floors, pets and storage space decide which vacuum suits you far more than suction numbers.
- Cordless models are convenient, but check real run time on the setting you will use and whether the battery is replaceable.
- Suction figures are not comparable between brands; look at how the vacuum handles your floor type in reviews.
- Pet hair needs an anti-tangle brush roll and a bin that is easy to empty.
- Robot vacuums save time on hard floors, but cables, socks and thick rugs can stop them; check mapping and obstacle features.
- Look at filter cost and availability, and whether a HEPA filter is included if allergies matter.
Common mistake: Ignoring bin size and filter upkeep, which decide how often you clean the cleaner.