The Best Vacuum Cleaners

HOW TO CHOOSE = The best vacuum cleaners will have HEPA filters, which have excellent filtration properties. Another “Must Have” is the revolving roller-brush that can be turned off when you vacuum bare floors.

Dirt sensors are more about marketing than performance. Experts say these are an unnecessary addition to the cost of the unit. Longer is better.

Hoses of 7 ft. or more, and cords of 30 ft. or more, are desirable. These will allow you to clean more area without changing to a different outlet. The longer hose makes it easier to reach higher places.

Uprights are best for those with a lot of carpet. Depending on your needs however, the canister vacuum may be a better choice. See our review page about those models.

THE REVIEW = The Eureka Boss SmartVac 4870MZ has been deemed the Best Budget Vacuum Cleaner. Reviewers say this model is the best value in a bagging upright vacuum, cleaning as well as or better than more expensive models.

It has a HEPA filter and does well in noise tests. It has on-board attachments and brushroll on/off control. It has a list price of $150.

Other top performers include:

Best Lightweight Bagging Vacuum = Hoover Widepath U5140-900 @ $69. Best Bagless Upright Vacuum = Kenmore Progressive 36932 @ $350.

Best Luxury Bagless Vacuum = Dyson DC18 Slim @ $400.

Best Basic Robotic Vacuum Cleaner = iRobot Roomba Discovery 510 @ $250.

Best prices found in May, ’10 = Kenmore Progressive is at Sears; the Dyson is at TotalVac.com; and the other models are cheapest at Amazon.com Marketplace.

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