Canister Vacuums: Reviews

According to reviews, the bagless 22-pound Hoover WindTunnel S3765-040 canister vacuum offers the best blend of performance and price overall. It's not quite as good at picking up pet hair as some vacuums, and it doesn't… handle quite as well as others, but reviews say it does a very good day-to-day cleaning job on bare floors and rugs. A telescoping wand helps reach tall drapes and maneuver on stairs, and a powered hand tool helps dig debris from upholstery and stairs. Emissions are low, with a HEPA filter to control dust, but since this is a bagless canister vacuum, you'll still be exposed to some dust when emptying the bin, so this vacuum might not be the best choice for allergy sufferers.

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At only 11 pounds, the Miele S4212 Polaris is one of the lightest canister vacuums available, yet reviews say it does a great job on bare floors, without spitting dust back onto the floor. The light weight makes it easier… to carry up and down stairs, and it's quieter than most. Owners cite above-average reliability and terrific emissions control, build quality and ease of use. Since this vacuum doesn't come with a powered floor brush, it's really meant mainly for bare floors, and in one test, it performed quite poorly in picking up pet hair from carpet. A powered brush for use on carpets and rugs is available as an accessory, as is an optional HEPA filter. It also has a telescopic wand.

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It's as pricey as canister vacuums from Miele and Dyson, but the Kenmore Intuition 28014 significantly outperforms both in independent testing. The Intuition does well across the board; it's a particular standout for… emissions control and pet hair removal, though, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers. Convenience features include on-board tool storage and a retractable 26-foot cord. There's also a HEPA filter, a crevice tool, a combo brush and a power head for digging dirt out of carpet. At 24 pounds, the Intuition is on the heavy side, but owners say it's still maneuverable and easy to use.

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