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Life - Your Home

Saturday, Mar. 07, 2009

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McCLATCHY-TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE
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A vacuum cleaner remains one of the most useful and practical means for keeping a home's floors and stairways clear of dust and dirt buildup. Yet selecting a model that best suits your cleaning needs can prove a challenge.

A pricey vacuum may not always be the best choice for your home. With so many brands and models to choose from, consumers can have a difficult time deciding which vacuum will work best. Here are a few guidelines to follow that can help with purchasing a new vacuum:

  • Suction: Look for models that maintain good suction through the hose as they fill with dust.

  • Attachments: Make sure the unit comes with standard vacuuming pieces, including a narrow crevice tool, a small brush for use on upholstery and a round brush for dusting.

  • Feel: Check out the unit for ease of pushing, pulling and carrying.

  • Loudness: Vacuums that produce 85 decibels or more can be a problem.

  • Dust discharge: Select a model that scored well in emissions tests. Consider going with a bag-equipped model to keep dust to a minimum.

    • — Source: Consumers Union

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