In a comedic turn, Canstar Blue studies conducted by Colmar Brunton this year show that while 66% of women believe they do most of the vacuuming in their house, 65% of men also believe they do most of the vacuuming.

Do we all hate vacuuming so much that each gender thinks we’re doing more work than the other? The results of this survey don’t show that, but it’s certainly clear that both men and women think they’re doing their fair share of the vacuuming.

Those in the younger end of Generation X were the only ones to find something different, with 60% of men and women in the 25 – 29 age group agreeing that women do most of the vacuuming in their house.

Canstar Blue vacuum cleaner reviews      

Previous studies by Canstar Blue have shown that overall, almost a quarter (23%) of women resented their partner for not pulling their weight in the household chores.

More than half of women feel that no one cleans the bathroom to their standards. Nearly one quarter of Australians say they often argue with their partner or family over the cleanliness of the bathroom.

The situation seems much the same in the UK, with a study by Sainsbury’s showing that while more men are helping out around the house than ever before, half of their women think they aren’t doing the job properly.

The study found nearly half the women said their men would often do the dishes, but not ‘finish the job’ by cleaning the sides of the sink and bench. A third of women said their men would happily cook dinner, but would balk at cleaning up the mess they’d created on the kitchen benches or stovetop afterwards.

A quarter of men said they were certain they were doing a satisfactory job of their household chores.

How to avoid bathroom arguments

The good news is that regardless of gender, our children and teenagers are still helping out around the house. A 2010 study by the Australian Institute of Family Studies showed that although the amount of work being done overall had dropped, children and teens were still doing a significant – if slightly lesser – percentage of housework compared with earlier studies from 1992 to 2006.

Studies by Harvard psychologist Richard Weissbourd have shown that chores teach children how to be empathetic and responsive to others’ needs instead of focussing solely on personal achievement and happiness. In research published last year, he and his team surveyed 10,000 middle school and high school students on these and other topics.

The data suggests we might benefit from training our men from a young age to be involved in household chores. Not just for our families, but for our men.

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The post Who does all the vacuuming at your house? appeared first on Canstar Blue.

One in three Australians say they tend to buy cheap vacuum cleaners and replace them when they stop working, shows this year’s Canstar Blue studies conducted by Colmar Brunton. So how can we dispose of our old vacuum cleaner in an environmentally responsible way?

Small household appliances such as vacuum cleaners constitute electronic waste or ‘e-waste’. (For more information, read about it here).This means you can’t just stick your old vacuum in a recycling wheelie bin or drop it on the curb (unless you’ve booked a collection with your council). Electrical equipment contains hazardous substances that need to be treated in a special way, and it is banned from landfill because it does not decompose.

It’s not hard to recycle your old vacuum cleaner. If it still works, obviously you can give it away to your local charity or opp shop. In South Australia, you can use the Recycle Right search engine to find your local charity to give it away to.

If the machine is dead as a doorknob and you’re buying a new one, you can trade in the old one for recycling at your local appliances dealer.

Dyson Australia is following the lead of Dyson UK in its initiative to pick up and recycle old vacuum cleaners for Dyson customers at Dyson’s cost. Research by Canstar Blue shows that owners of a Dyson are the most likely to recommend their vacuum cleaner to others.

Canstar Blue vacuum cleaner reviews        

Godfrey’s Australia actually offers a discount on buying a new vacuum cleaner if you drop off your old one with them to be recycled!

“It is important that companies take responsibility for their products at the end of their life by putting in place collection and recycling programs,” said Brad Gray, Campaigns Manager at Planet Ark upon the introduction of the ‘eco-trade’ campaign for vacuum cleaners in 2011. “It’s not yet a legal responsibility but it is a moral one.”

About 90% of the materials used to make electrical appliances can be recycled. Metal from the machine is used to make new metal items, while the plastics are recycled and used in the production of things like:

1. Outdoor furniture
2. Plastic plant pots
3. Dashboards for cars

In Brisbane, residents can take their vacuum cleaner to the marked e-waste recycling bins at transfer stations, for free.

Zero Waste SA also recommends trying your local scrap metal recyclers, as they offer free collection in metropolitan areas.

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The post How to recycle your old vacuum cleaner and protect our planet appeared first on Canstar Blue.

On average, Aussies are spending more than $370 on their vacuum cleaners, but many still aspire to own the best that money can buy.

That’s one of the findings of a new Canstar Blue survey, which saw Dyson vacuum cleaners rated highest of eight major brands.

“Consumers don’t mind spending a good amount on a vacuum cleaner that makes cleaning the home as easy as possible,” said Head of Canstar Blue, Megan Doyle. “We always want great value for money but more than anything, consumers demand a vacuum cleaner that lives up to expectations and really performs.

“But it’s also got to be easy to use. There’s no point having a powerful vacuum if you struggle to manoeuvre it around your house.”

Source: www.canstarblue.com.au Vacuum Cleaners survey 2015, conducted by Colmar Brunton

How much do we spend on vacuum cleaners?

The survey, of 1,364 adults who bought a new vacuum cleaner in the last three years, found the average amount spent to be $373. Those in Western Australia spent the most ($464) and Queensland the least ($316). And generally the older you get, the more you are likely to spend, with those aged 18-24 spending an average of $286 compared to adults in their 50s who spent an average of $408.

Almost half (48%) of respondents were replacing a vacuum cleaner that had stopped working, while 27% were upgrading to a better model and 12% wanted an additional appliance. Consumers who were replacing an old vacuum cleaner were doing so after an average of 6.7 years.

Thirty per cent of survey respondents said they tend to buy cheap vacuum cleaners and replace them when they stop working, while 46% have more than one vacuum in their home. And two out of five (39%) dream of owning a top of the line vacuum.

“Most consumers are convinced it pays to spend a little more,” said Mrs Doyle. “It can be tempting to take the cheap option when you’re shopping, but when it comes to vacuuming your home, you might regret it.

“Spending that extra bit may even save you in the long run if you have to replace your vacuum cleaner more regularly because you bought a cheap model.”

Dyson delivers overall customer satisfaction

Consumers who purchased Dyson vacuum cleaners were the most satisfied with their purchase, the survey found. Vax received notable recognition for offering value for money, but Dyson was the only brand to score five-star ratings for effective cleaning and ease of use. Dyson also recorded top marks from consumers for size and noise levels. Read the full ratings report here.

It is the third time in four years that Dyson has picked up Canstar Blue’s Most Satisfied Customers Award for vacuum cleaners, with Shark finishing top of the ratings in 2014.

“Survey respondents who bought a Dyson vacuum cleaner use few words to describe their purchase – because it simply does a great job,” said Mrs Doyle. “They report reliable, easy to maintain, easy to use and powerful vacuums that make cleaning the house hassle free. Most Dyson owners seem convinced they have the best that money can buy.”

The post Aussies want vacuum cleaners that really suck appeared first on Canstar Blue.

Hoover is a cleaning and floor care company founded back in 1908 by W.H. Hoover. The world’s first known vacuum cleaner was invented by a janitor named James Spangler the year before in order to alleviate his asthma resulting from the dust he frequently encountered, and he subsequently patented his design and set about assembling several units a week. When Hoover’s wife bought one, he saw the potential of the new device, bought the patent and hired Spangler as a consultant for his venture, the Electric Suction Sweeper Company. The following decades saw a combination of canny marketing and continuous development transform Hoover into one of the biggest and most recognisable vacuum brands in the world.

Hoover has developed numerous innovations over the years such as the disposable vacuum bag and vacuum cleaner headlights, and their current models reflect this cutting-edge approach. Hoover’s barrel vacuums employ bagless cyclonic suction in combination with washable HEPA filters which filter out over 99% of particle matter from the air – perfect for allergy sufferers and lovers of clean air. They also come with specialised tools as standard including a mattress cleaning head, an air-driven pet hair lifter and a flexible dusting head. Hoover’s other models include uprights, handhelds, commercial wet/dry canister vacs and automated robotic cleaners.

What our survey respondents say about Hoover vacuum cleaners

Canstar Blue’s most recent survey of just over 1,200 consumers who had purchased purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years garnered the following comments, among many others, from customers of Hoover:

Source: www.canstarblue.com.au Vacuum cleaner survey 2015, conducted on behalf of Canstar Blue by Colmar Brunton

Read our vacuum cleaner customer satisfaction survey results here.

Other vacuum cleaner brands we surveyed

Canstar Blue commissions Colmar Brunton to regularly survey 3,000 Australian consumers across a range of categories to measure and track customer satisfaction. The outcomes reported are the results from customers within the survey group who have purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years – in this case, 1,211 Australians.

The other vacuum cleaner brands in this year’s survey are:

• Miele
• Shark
• Dyson
• Kambrook
• Vax
• Electrolux
• Volta

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The post About Hoover vacuum cleaners appeared first on Canstar Blue.

Vax launched their iconic orange vacuum cleaner back in 1979, and has since grown to become the UK’s best-selling floorcare brand as well as expanding into multiple foreign markets. Vax in Australia offers a wide range of devices to care for your floor; their vacuum range includes barrel, upright and cordless cleaners, the former available in both bagged and bagless varieties, as well as more heavy-duty machines such as wet-and-dry canister vacs. They also offer more specialised floor-cleaning devices such as steam cleaners, carpet washers and pressure cleaners.

Vax vacuum cleaners incorporate multiple technological innovations to keep them at the cutting edge of the market. Their AirRevolve cylinder vacuum has a unique compact, cylindrical design that allows it to be carried or wheeled around in any orientation – it combines the power and versatility of a barrel vac with the portability of a smaller machine, making it highly effective. Their cordless vacs come equipped with LED headlights to help you see into tight spaces, as well as a boost mode to increase suction power for stubborn dirt.

What our survey respondents say about Vax vacuum cleaners

Canstar Blue’s most recent survey of just over 1,200 consumers who had purchased purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years garnered the following comments, among many others, from customers of Vax:

Source: www.canstarblue.com.au Vacuum Cleaners survey 2015, conducted on behalf of Canstar Blue by Colmar Brunton

Read our vacuum cleaner customer satisfaction survey results here.  

Other vacuum cleaner brands we surveyed

Canstar Blue commissions Colmar Brunton to regularly survey 3,000 Australian consumers across a range of categories to measure and track customer satisfaction. The outcomes reported are the results from customers within the survey group who have purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years – in this case, 1,211 Australians.

The other vacuum cleaner brands in this year’s survey are:

• Miele
• Shark
• Dyson
• Kambrook
• Electrolux
• Hoover
• Volta

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The post About Vax vacuum cleaners appeared first on Canstar Blue.

Electrolux brought out their first vacuum cleaner in 1912, and over a century later their range has grown to include a number of models equipped with the latest technology. The company sells more than 40 million products every year to customers all over the world, their products ranging from kitchen appliances to washing machines, vacuum cleaners and barbeques. Electrolux is a Swedish company which has truly gone global, with net sales of over 112 billion Swedish Krona (roughly AUD $17 billion) and the company employing over 60,000 people worldwide.

Electrolux equip their vacuum cleaners with a number of innovative features. Whether it’s an upright, canister or handheld vacuum cleaner model, each has unique technological flourishes which help it stand out. Their upright Ergorapido models combine two models into one, with the upright vacuum housing a smaller, detachable handheld vacuum within its body; the range also comes with LED headlights and a 180-degree swivel nozzle. Their UltraOne canister vacuum, meanwhile, has highly efficient suction and filtration which eliminates over 99% of particulate matter from the exhaust air.

What our survey respondents say about Electrolux vacuum cleaners

Canstar Blue’s most recent survey of just over 1,200 consumers who had purchased purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years garnered the following comments, among many others, from customers of Electrolux:

Source: www.canstarblue.com.au Vacuum cleaner survey 2015, conducted on behalf of Canstar Blue by Colmar Brunton

Read our vacuum cleaner customer satisfaction survey results here.   

Other vacuum cleaner brands we surveyed

Canstar Blue commissions Colmar Brunton to regularly survey 3,000 Australian consumers across a range of categories to measure and track customer satisfaction. The outcomes reported are the results from customers within the survey group who have purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years – in this case, 1,211 Australians.

The other vacuum cleaner brands in this year’s survey are:

• Miele
• Shark
• Dyson
• Kambrook
• Vax
• Hoover
• Volta

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The post About Electrolux vacuum cleaners appeared first on Canstar Blue.

Dyson is a company which defines itself by its dedication to technological innovation. James Dyson founded the company in 1993 following his successful development and licensing of the world’s first cyclonic vacuum cleaner, the G-Force. Dyson had grown frustrated by the gradually diminishing performance of vacuum cleaners at the time, which were almost universally based on disposable bags – bags that became clogged over time and reduced the machine’s suction. Dyson was inspired by the capabilities of a cyclonic paint filter he’d built for a factory, and decided to apply the same principle to a domestic vacuum cleaner; five years and over five thousand prototypes later, his first vacuum cleaner was released in Japan to huge success. This was followed by the UK release of his company’s first model in 1993, the DC01, which quickly became the UK’s best-selling vacuum.

Both Dyson the man and Dyson the company are obsessed with continuous improvement and innovation, with the company employing over a thousand engineers worldwide. The company has expanded its range massively in the past twenty years, and now offers upright vacuums and cordless handheld models in addition to its ever-present range of barrel vacuums. All of Dyson’s vacuum models come with their latest proprietary cyclonic separation technology, as well as multiple other clever innovations such as their ball-mounted movement system that allows greater mobility than regular wheels.

It’s no real surprise, then, that Dyson has scooped the Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customers award for 2015, Dyson was some way ahead of the seven other brands we rated, with closest competitors Miele and Shark scoring four stars overall.

Read our vacuum cleaner customer satisfaction survey results here.

Other vacuum cleaner brands we surveyed

Canstar Blue commissions Colmar Brunton to regularly survey 3,000 Australian consumers across a range of categories to measure and track customer satisfaction. The outcomes reported are the results from customers within the survey group who have purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years – in this case, 1,211 Australians.

The other vacuum cleaner brands in this year’s survey are:

• Miele
• Shark
• Electrolux
• Kambrook
• Vax
• Hoover
• Volta

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The post About Dyson vacuum cleaners appeared first on Canstar Blue.

It’s an all too common story: You don’t want to vacuum the house five times a day, but your dog creates so much hair that you really should…

So what are the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair? It’s a subjective thing of course, but some of the 1,200-odd respondents of Canstar Blue’s recent vacuum cleaner survey rate both Dyson and Hoover as effective at vacuuming up that pesky dog hair.

Some comments by Dyson owners included:

“Easy to use, effective on dog hair”

“Dyson has a fantastic suction for dog hair – it works well”

“Turbo head thingy is good – gets all the dog hair up”

And comments from survey respondents with Dyson vacuum cleaners included:

“Excellent quality and does a fantastic job, particularly if you have pets. I would recommend to anyone.”

“Great at picking animal hair from floorboards which is mainly why we bought the vacuum.”

The robot vacuum has also become a lifesaver for those of us with particularly hirsute pets. Your robot friend has no qualms about vacuuming every day – or several times a day! Pick up one of these mobile treasures and you can look forward to walking barefoot on a clean floor whenever you want.

Canstar Blue vacuum cleaner reviews

Dyson was rated this year by Canstar Blue survey respondents as being the most effective cleaning tool and the easiest to use. If you’re brave, Dyson’s upright even has a grooming tool that you can use to suck the hair right off the back of your furry friend! Maybe it can even pick up those pesky fleas.

Is this one also suitable for use on long-haired human breeds? Sorry, it’s not recommended.

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The post Some good vacuum cleaners for pet hair appeared first on Canstar Blue.

Shark is a manufacturer of floor and garment care devices, and is a subsidiary of cleaning appliances company Euro-Pro. In addition to their steam cleaners and irons, the company offers a large range of vacuum cleaners including upright, canister and handheld. Euro-Pro is a family-run business that originated over a century ago in Europe, before moving to Massachusetts via Canada. The company currently has offices in their hometown as well as in Montreal and several offices in China, employing over 800 people and with market revenues of over US$1.6 billion as of 2014.

Shark’s vacuum cleaner technology combines several innovative features into their latest models. Their proprietary Powered Lift-Away technology allows their upright vacuum cleaners to be removed from their base along with an extendable nozzle, and carried around in order to reach more difficult space; the same upright models also have highly flexible rotating cleaning heads in order to access even the roughest surfaces. Shark’s fingertip controls and LED lights make their vacuums even more ergonomic.

What our survey respondents say about Shark vacuum cleaners

Canstar Blue’s most recent survey of just over 1,200 consumers who had purchased purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years garnered the following comments, among many others, from customers of Shark:

Source: www.canstarblue.com.au Vacuum cleaner survey 2015, conducted on behalf of Canstar Blue by Colmar Brunton

Read our vacuum cleaner customer satisfaction survey results here.

Other vacuum cleaner brands we surveyed

Canstar Blue commissions Colmar Brunton to regularly survey 3,000 Australian consumers across a range of categories to measure and track customer satisfaction. The outcomes reported are the results from customers within the survey group who have purchased a new vacuum cleaner within the past 3 years – in this case, 1,211 Australians.

The other vacuum cleaner brands in this year’s survey are:

• Kambrook
• Miele
• Dyson
• Hoover
• Vax
• Electrolux
• Volta

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The post About Shark vacuum cleaners appeared first on Canstar Blue.

It found Queenslanders are spending $30 less than the national average when they buy a new vacuum cleaner and a whopping $54 less than the biggest spenders, South Australians.

“When it comes to vacuum cleaners, it’s usually the case that you get what you pay for in terms of their quality and effectiveness,” said Head of Canstar Blue, Megan Doyle. “It can be tempting to buy a cheap model to save a few bucks, but a lot of people who do this end up frustrated and regretting that decision.

“Owning a good vacuum cleaner is useful if you want to maintain a clean and tidy home, but it can also be very important from a health perspective, particularly if your household includes pets, or people with allergies or respiratory issues.

“Spending a lot of money on a vacuum cleaner doesn’t automatically mean you’re getting a superior appliance, but it’s probably a good sign. The trick, if you can, is to get a good deal on a good vacuum cleaner.”

The dangers of dirty carpets

Carpets are all about comfort and warmth, but you might not realise the potential dangers lurking under your feet. They might look harmless on the surface, but your carpet could be hiding all manner of microbes and irritants that can cause or exacerbate illnesses. Here are some of the health issues related to dirty carpets.

• Respiratory issues: Dirty carpets can be the perfect habitat for tiny organisms such as dust mites, volatile compounds and moulds which multiply rapidly. Think of human skin, pet hair and general dirt as their food. When these organisms are disturbed, they can be inhaled. That’s bad news for anyone, but especially those with asthma or other breathing problems.
• Skin irritation: A filthy carpet will hoard living and non-living skin irritants that can cause itching or even swelling. Unfortunately common household pests like cockroaches are attracted to the fibres in your dirty carpet, bringing with them harmful germs of their own. Fungi found in dirty carpets can exploit cuts, scratches and breaks in your skin, leading to chronic itching later on.
• Allergies: People with pre-existing allergies can be particularly prone to allergic reactions when they come into contract with a dirty carpet and its accumulated contents. Dust, pet hairs, fungi and tiny insects are often the culprits of itching skin, sneezing and other unpleasant allergy symptoms.

Vacuum cleaner spending

The Canstar Blue survey, of 1,600 adults who have bought a new vacuum cleaner in the last three years, found the average spend nationwide to be $343. In Queensland the average dropped to $313, with South Australians splashing out $367.

Source: Canstar Blue survey of 1,605 adults, March 2016.

Across the country, 24% of respondents said they are disappointed with the performance of their new vacuum cleaner. Nowhere are consumers more disappointed than Victoria (27%), followed by NSW (25%), Queensland (20%) and South Australia and Western Australia (19%).

Victorians are also the most likely to wish they had spent more on a better vacuum cleaner (24%), followed by consumers in NSW (22%), Queensland (21%), South Australia (19%) and Western Australia (16%).

“Vacuuming isn’t the most enjoyable of household chores at the best of times, so dragging around a big, noisy lump of a vacuum cleaner, that just isn’t up to the job, is going to leave you incredibly frustrated,” added Mrs Doyle. “Consumers want a vacuum cleaner that is easy to use and represents good value for money, but above all else it needs to be effective at cleaning.

“That’s why it’s a good idea to find out what other consumers think of the vacuum cleaners they own, to help you make an informed decision before spending hundreds of dollars.”

Vacuum cleaner ratings

Respondents to the Canstar Blue survey were asked to rate the vacuum cleaner they most recently purchased across a number of variables, relating to its ease of use, ease of storage, quietness, effectiveness and value for money.

Eleven big name brands featured in the results, but only Shark received the all-important five-star ratings for effectiveness and overall customer satisfaction. Along with Bosch and Dyson, Shark also scored top marks for ease of use.

Bosch also rated highly in terms of quietness, while Dyson scored five stars for ease of storage and Piranha was deemed to offer good value for money.

“Shark and Dyson have dominated our customer ratings for vacuum cleaners since we launched the category in 2011,” said Mrs Doyle. “Dyson has topped the table three times and this is now the second time Shark that has come out on top. This is clearly no fluke and gives consumers a strong message about the brands that are rated highest in Australia.”

Vacuum cleaners reviews and ratings

The post Queensland carpets under the microscope appeared first on Canstar Blue.

Tired of constantly sweeping up debris from your polished floorboards? Sick of dusting off the couch you paid so much for? A vacuum cleaner helps take a little of the labour out of cleaning, enabling heightened speed and efficiency. But with so many options on offer it becomes difficult to know which type of vacuum cleaner will be most useful.

To help with all your vacuum-related needs, consult our product buying guide to help you choose the device best placed to leave your home spotless.

Types of vacuum cleaners

Canister/Barrel

Canister vacuum cleaners consist of a wheeled body section, containing either a bag or a vacuum cylinder, which is attached to an extendable hose that has interchangeable nozzles. This variety of vacuum is one of the most versatile, with the wheeled body being relatively light and easy to move around, as well as able to clean in a variety of spaces due to the interchangeable heads. These models also possess considerable suction power for sucking up ingrained dirt.

Who should buy a canister/barrel vacuum cleaner?

Canister vacuum cleaners are very versatile and usually come with a variety of cleaning heads and attachments, making them appropriate to use on most surfaces and in hard-to-reach places. Canister models are great for use around the home or office, however its size may make it a little cumbersome when it comes to cleaning the car.

Price of canister/barrel vacuum cleaners

There are many models of Canister vacuum on the market which range considerably in quality and price. Prices are generally from $100-$500, however customers may find barrel vacuum cleaners for as little as $50 at certain discount retailers. Keep in mind that price isn’t necessarily reflective of quality – you probably don’t need to spend big money on a vacuum unless you have a large home, own several pets or just love vacuuming.

Upright

Upright vacuum cleaners consist of a cleaning nozzle and a vacuum bag or chamber integrated into a single unit, which is controlled using a broom-like handle above the ensemble. They are more compact and generally faster to use than canister vacuums due to their ease of handling. Its design and lack of interchangeable heads however makes them too cumbersome for use on anything but the floors and carpet.

Should you buy an upright vacuum cleaner?

Upright vacuums, like canister vacuums, are a good choice for a wide variety of people. Their greater focus on floor cleaning and manoeuvrability means they are good for people with medium to large floor spaces, such as single-storey homes. Upright cleaners are fast, efficient and sometimes cordless, making them the model of choice for people with little time for cleaning.

That said, if your home is packed with furniture, or your furniture is the kind that sits close to the floor, you may struggle to clean certain areas of the house and you may need to move furniture around to access all areas. You will also probably need a handheld vacuum to clean what your upright cannot reach.

Price of upright vacuum cleaners

Upright vacuum cleaners are generally speaking a little more expensive than the barrel vacuums. Once again you can expect prices to range quite considerably, this time anywhere from $200-$700. Cordless and bagless models are among the most expensive.

Robot vacuum cleaners

Robotic vacuum cleaners are small, autonomous robots with inbuilt suction that clean specific areas at regular intervals. Most models have several inbuilt movement patterns for different levels of cleaning, and more expensive models have sensors that map out rooms to ensure thorough and consistent cleaning. They are programmed to return to their charging stations when low on power, and can be set to clean at convenient times, such as when you’re out at work during the day or asleep at night.

Their compact size – usually circular and less than 10cm high – allows them to clean in hard-to-reach places, such as underneath furniture, however the downside to their shape is that some robotic cleaners struggle to clean corners of a room. Robotic Vacuum cleaners will also tend to have reduced suction and limited battery life compared to larger models. Their limited mobility also restricts them to flat surfaces, and some models can’t cope with certain carpets and fabrics.

Who should buy a robot vacuum cleaner?

Robotic vacuum cleaners are ideal for people who are too busy (or – let’s face it – too lazy) to spend a significant amount of time cleaning, or those who have a large amount of floor space that would be impractical to regularly clean. Unfortunately, research by Choice has found that robotic vacuum cleaners do not have a strong enough suction to clean hidden dirt in the carpet which will build up over time and create stains.  So while robotic vacuums can be used to make the carpet look nice – it’s no real replacement for traditional models. With this said, robotic vacuums still do quite a reasonable job at cleaning hard floors.

Price of robotic vacuum cleaners

If you think having a robot to do your cleaning comes cheap, then I’m afraid you’re wrong. Prices for a decent robot vacuum cleaner begin at around the $500 mark and go anywhere as high as $1,500. While you have probably come across robot vacuum cleaners for less than $200, chances are its suction wouldn’t be enough to clean carpet well. As technology in robotic vacuuming continues to improve however, expect prices to fall.

Handheld

Handheld vacuum cleaners are much smaller and lighter than their heavyweight counterparts, and as their name suggests they can usually be used with one hand. They are useful for cleaning hard-to-reach places such as behind furniture, the contours of the car’s interior, or the tops of high cupboards and shelves, and can be ideal for quickly sucking up small amounts of material that would otherwise require a larger cleaner.

On the flipside, their small size means they lack the powerful suction and large capacity of bigger vacuums, and their cheaper price often means a lack of specialised features such as interchangeable heads. Additionally, you’d be hard-pressed to clean your entire floor with these appliances.

Who should buy a handheld vacuum cleaner?

Handheld vacuums are well suited to small households and apartment dwellers, as their compact size and low price makes them perfect for people whose cleaning needs are infrequent and undemanding. However, you’ll always need a vacuum cleaner that can clean up your floor as well, and will therefore still need to look for a conventional model.

Price of handheld vacuum cleaners

Handheld vacuum cleaners can do a lot less than other models, so it’s expected they are a lot cheaper. Depending on what you’re after, a handheld vacuum cleaner should cost you around $20-$120.

Wet and dry

Wet and dry vacuum cleaners are designed to clean up far more mess and debris than most household vacuums. They have the same general design as canister vacuums, and come in both wheeled and wearable backpack styles. They contain inbuilt liquid pumps for separating dry and wet mess, and often have a reverse suction function that turns the vacuum into a blower for dislodging stubborn debris.

Wet and dry vacuums are often used in commercial or industrial environments, meaning they are far more powerful than canister or upright vacuums, and are generally more expensive to boot.

Who should buy a wet and dry vacuum cleaner?

Wet and dry vacuums are more heavy-duty than most consumers need, but are still useful in the right setting. They are best suited to environments where daily cleaning is necessary, and heavy amounts of mess and debris are commonplace. They are most useful to people who have to clean a large space that sees frequent mess, debris or spillages; this could be people with large houses or properties, or people with a large number of immediate family members or housemates who cause a lot of mess.

Price of wet and dry vacuum cleaners

These vacuums are definitely the most powerful on this list, and so you’d expect them to be the most expensive. The price for a wet and dry vacuum cleaner starts at around $600 and can be as much as $2,500.

Other features to consider

Dust filters (e.g. HEPA filters)

If you’re an asthmatic, have dust allergies, or have any other respiratory problems, make sure the vacuum cleaner you buy has what’s called a HEPA filter (“high efficiency particulate air” filtration). This is a standardised filtration system that traps fine particles of dust to prevent inhalation or further mess when emptying the full vacuum cleaner. These filters need to be cleaned regularly to maintain their effectiveness.

Adjustable and interchangeable accessories

Depending on their type and price, vacuums come with different amounts of customisation. For example, canister vacuums usually have telescoping tubes for cleaning hard-to-reach or delicate areas, as well as suction heads that are height and angle-adjustable. Along with other types of vacuum such as uprights and handhelds, they usually come with several different nozzles; these can include brushes for more effective fabric cleaning, narrow nozzles for hard to reach areas and rubberised ends that are better to scrape up dirt on hard surfaces. If your cleaning tends to include a variety of surfaces and places, consider buying a customisable cleaner.

Bag or container?
There are two ways in which vacuum cleaners store waste material: vacuum bags, which are interchangeable and can be disposed of when full; and containers, which are integrated into the vacuum itself and can be opened and emptied. Container model vacuums are becoming more common these days, as they are much more environmentally friendly. Furthermore, while the initial price for a container vacuum is generally higher, the long-term savings on replacement bags may offset this depending on the owner’s level of use. For a short-term solution, bag-based cleaners are usually cheaper and can be simpler to operate.

Power supply
Modern vacuum cleaners are powered either by rechargeable batteries or by being directly plugged in to an outlet via an extendable cord (usually housed within the body of the appliance). Battery-powered devices are much more portable and convenient without the hassle of an extension cord, but have limited battery life and are usually more expensive than an equivalent power cord model. Essentially it’s up to you to decide whether to place more importance on convenience or price.

The right vacuum cleaner for you

As you can see, there are a number of pros and cons to most models of vacuum cleaners. Generally speaking, mid-priced vacuums will provide the best balance of value and performance. If you have expensive carpets, then it’s of course in your best interest to purchase a higher tier vacuum, however if you only have hard floors, stick to the cheap ones as you probably won’t need powerful suction. As for the model you should pick, a safe bet would be to purchase a canister model as they are the most versatile. In saying that, consider all the pros and cons discussed in this article to work out what will work best for you.

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If you’ve got a busy household that’s heavily lived-in, then chances are busting out the vacuum cleaner is a high annoyance of a weekend morning. Australian homes are full of frustrated men and women dragging around old vacuums that seem to make life more difficult – falling over at every turn. But here comes the Dyson Cinetic Big Ball. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?

It’s another intuitive model in the Dyson lineup, designed with usability and a pain-free experience in mind. Well, as pain free as vacuuming can be. Anything that turns vacuuming into a more fluid process is welcome at Canstar Blue. Not only does the Big Ball do a typically Dyson job at vacuuming, but you can never keep it down – literally.

How does the Dyson Cinetic Big Ball work?

We all know how painful vacuuming can be – particularly when dragging a cumbersome model around corners. Chances are if your vacuum topples over mid-clean then you’ll be prematurely teaching your kids some expletives they’re not ready for. Here are some features that explain why the Dyson Big Ball takes away a lot of problems associated with vacuuming cleaning:

Its design brings the dust barrel much closer to the ball. It also features an electric motor much lower in the chassis. Think of it like a sports car, low-slung, lightweight and with an engine low to the ground – this makes for superior handling on the racetrack with a low centre of gravity. Similarly, the Dyson Big Ball has superior handling around the house.

The Big Ball can take a beating and won’t topple over. The vacuum has a huge wheel on each side, which makes the body super-sturdy going around corners. This might seem trivial, but this combined with its ball technology makes the vacuum cleaner much easier to handle. This stops wasting your time going back and having to pick up your toppled-over vacuum.

Other cool features include:

• The new Big Ball model comes with a 33 per cent larger bin.
• Its HEPA-rated glass-packed filter is tested to work over the entire expected life of the vacuum.
• No filters to wash or clean and no bags are needed.
• Dyson claims the Big Ball requires no maintenance, and loses no suction throughout the life of the product.

See the Dyson Cinetic Big Ball in action for yourself:

Is the Dyson Cinetic Big Ball worth the money?

Before we delve into Big Ball prices, we must note that there are a few models to choose from that we’ll break down. Overall, there are four Cinetic models in the Dyson lineup. They are:

• Big Ball Animal Pro – $999: If your home sometimes represents more of a barnhouse than a place for people, then the Animal Pro could be for you. It’s the most serious vacuum in the Cinetic Big Ball lineup, and it packs a punch when it comes to cleaning up pet hair. It’s also allergy-free. At nearly a grand, this vacuum is for your more heavy-duty households requiring regular vacuuming.
• Big Ball Animal – $899: Although not as heavy-duty as the Pro, the Animal is no amateur. Similar to the Pro, this model is designed for pet hair, and is designed to be allergy-friendly.
• Big Ball Allergy – $799: A strong mid-range contender, the Allergy is no pushover. It is designed to be allergy-friendly, so it won’t leave your household spluttering while you bust out the vacuum.
• Big Ball Multi-Floor – $699: An entry into the Cinetic lineup, the Multi-Floor is not as heavy duty as the other models, but is still engineered to be a great little runner. If your vacuuming needs are not as serious – or perhaps there’s a smaller area to vacuum – then the Multi-Floor could be for you.

It’s important to note that all Big Balls contain the same anti-topple technology and are all intuitive products, streets ahead of any technological competition. The thing about Dyson is that you aren’t just paying for a name – since the brand’s inception in 1993, Dyson has aimed to be at the forefront of usability and technology, and not just when it comes to vacuum cleaners.

While their prices may be a little hard to swallow for some, at the end of the day, you pay for quality. And Dyson has made sure their strongest products are now even stronger for robust household vacuuming. Overall, if you’re in the market for a new vacuum cleaner, and can stomach over $600, then a Dyson Cinetic Big Ball may be an option for you.

Vacuum cleaner brand ratings

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Everyone owns a vacuum cleaner, but the standard vacuum has its limits. Dependable as they are, your trusty vacuum cleaner can’t do everything, and as such new hybrid vacuums are starting to become increasingly popular, bringing greater flexibility to one of life’s most tiresome chores. The latest craze is handstick (or just Stick) vacuum cleaners, which provide and quick and easy vacuuming salutation for busy households.

What is a stick vacuum cleaner?

Stick vacuum cleaners are a sleeker, modern design of the handheld traditional vacuum, and are very handy to have around your home. Their primary purpose is for a quick and easy in-between clean and best suited to reach those hard to reach places. Handstick vacuum cleaners are designed with convenience in mind. They are cordless and bagless, and their lightweight build and slick design means they are more easily stored and movable than traditional vacuums.

The biggest downside to handheld vacuum cleaners is that they have often lacked the suction power of their bigger cousins, the upright or barrel vacuum cleaner, but things are starting to change – and those seemingly innocuous stick vacuums are starting to pack a punch. You might even find a stick vacuum can completely replace your bulkier existing vacuum, but it’s probably the case that most households will purchase one as their quick and easy ‘number two’ option for those occasions when using the bigger unit is too much effort.

How much do stick vacuum cleaners cost?

Handstick vacuum cleaners can cost anywhere between $200 and $900 depending on the model and the brand. Since most handstick vacuum cleaners are less powerful than traditional barrel or upright vacuum cleaners, it’s no surprise that they are cheaper in most cases. If you’re looking for a budget option, a handstick vacuum cleaner can cost you less than $200. However, due to their increasing popularity, some of the leading manufacturers have been making more advanced and innovative designs. As a result, more feature-packed and expensive units are also available.

The most expensive model currently listed on Appliances Online is the Dyson 164527-01 V8 Absolute (pictured), which costs about $850, while the cheapest is the Electrolux ZB3103 Ergorapido 2in1 which will set you back a little under $200. The main differences between the two models are:

• The weight, with the more expensive Dyson vacuum weighing more than a kilo less than the cheapest Electrolux.
• The height and width, as the more expensive Dyson vacuum is significantly shorter (250mm vs 690mm). Generally speaking, the more compact models cost more.
• The number of special features.

Canstar Blue research shows that 47% of Australians have more than one vacuum cleaner, and that we are spending more than $370 on average for each one. Clearly a large number of Australians feel that spending large sums of money on a functioning second vacuum to be a worthwhile investment. If you are one of these people, then you might want to consider buying a more expensive model that comes with additional features and greater power.

Dyson cinetic big ball vacuum review

Before settling on a stick vacuum cleaner, there a number of conditions you should take into account. Otherwise, you might end up with the wrong one.Things to consider when buying a stick vacuum cleaner

• Budget: It might be worthwhile to invest in a more expensive model, but obviously this isn’t a good idea if you can’t afford one. These vacuums typically don’t last as long as traditional vacuums cleaners, so you will need to replace them every few years or so. Your budget should really be the first thing on your mind when deciding on a handstick vacuum.
• Your surface type: It’s crucial to ensure that the model you buy fits your home. Handstick vacuums are not suitable for cleaning your entire floor, whether it’s tiled, carpeted or wood. They’re more suitable for small cleaning jobs in hard to reach areas and certain models perform stronger on different surfaces. A lack of suction on certain surfaces will result in dirt and debris being left behind. For the best results, ensure that the model you buy is a fit for your home.
• Weight: Due to being handheld appliances, you’ll likely be carrying them around a lot to reach those rooms and stairs. Therefore, you definitely don’t want to pick one that’ll give you a hard time lugging it around. Pick a product that is light enough for you to carry easily. Some of the lightest models can weigh as little as two kilograms. Alternatively, getting a heavier one could be a good workout!
• Battery: For the sake of convenience, handstick vacuums are cordless. This means you’ll want to keep the battery life of your vacuum in mind. Batteries should last for a few years of average use, unless you plan on vacuuming a lot. Eventually though, they will lose their ability to hold a charge. Once the battery dies, it can often be cheaper to just replace the vacuum itself, so make sure you check the warranty on the battery before you purchase. Also consider how long the battery will last for every use – this tends to be up to around 40 minutes at a time.
• Noise: Being smaller and less powerful than upright vacuums doesn’t mean that handstick vacuums are that much quieter. If noise bothers you when you’re vacuuming, then quitter models definitely exist. It would be best to ask an expert on the Nosie levels before buying.
• Ratings and reviews: There are scores of handstick models out there, and sifting through the good and the bad models can be challenging. Online reviews are a good gauge of whether or not a product performs up to standard, and you can also check out our vacuum cleaner customer reviews and ratings to see which of the major brands performed the best overall according to consumers like you.

Check out this video from Appliances Online for an overview of the Dyson V6 Animal Stick vacuum – one of the most feature-packed you are likely to find.

Special features to look for in a stick vacuum

In addition to the considerations listed above, there are also a multitude of different features that some of the more advanced stick vacuum cleaners come with. Depending on your needs, you might want to consider some of the following common features.

• On/off switch: This might seem fairly obvious, but a lot of models require you to hold a trigger to keep sucking, which can be a bit of a strain on the old fingers. An on/off switch makes continuous operation considerably easier, especially if you are a regular cleaner.
• Wall mountable charging dock: While the stick part of the vacuum requires a battery, the handheld part is often chargeable. A docking station will keep the vacuum fully charged for when you need it, and some mounted bases can even keep all of your other accessories in one place as well.
• Pet hair functions: Standard tools that come with a handstick are crevice and dusting brush tools, but there are other attachable parts built for specific cleaning purposes. The most commonly used is a pet hair brush. Pet hair is particularly difficult to get out, and you can never really be rid of it entirely, but a pet hair attachment will do a fine job in cleaning up after your furry housemate.
• Fallout flap: A fallout flap prevents dirt from falling out of the back of the vacuum when you carry it with the nozzle facing downwards. People often do this without realizing it when they move between spaces, do having a fallout flap can stop you from having to do extra work.
• Filters: Most vacuum cleaner models come with a filter to sort through dust particles. These filters should be easy to remove, replace and clean when necessary. Some models also come with HEPA filters, which are ideal if you have an allergy to dust.
• Wet and dry capabilities: Not all models are suited to sucking up liquids. But the ones that do can store a relatively small amount (150ml), which makes them perfect for cleaning up quickly after a spill. Be sure to clean the in-built bin and filter after sucking up liquids, and do not fill it past the indicated level.

What are the best brands for stick vacuum cleaners?

When it comes to vacuum cleaners in general, Shark vacuum cleaners currently top our customer ratings, but Dyson is hard to beat for its innovative new handstick vacuum cleaners. The 209568-01 Absolute handstick cleaner (pictured) is one of its flagship handstick models.

Another high profile brand to consider is Electrolux. The Swedish brand equips its vacuums with a number of innovative features, with unique technological flourishes that help them stand out. Electrolux offers 11 different handheld models in Australia, many of which have very high consumer scores. One model is the ZB3113 Ergorapido 2in1 Handheld Vacuum, which should only cost you around $250. Electrolux’s models come equipped with nifty features including a self-standing feature, swivel nozzle and increased suction power, and while its vacuums appear to be heavier on average, they still offer excellent value.

Bissell also offers a high-quality of handstick vacuums. It brings four different handstick vacuums at the cheaper end of the spectrum at around $200-400. One such model, the 1047F AirRam Vacuum Cleaner, weighs just 3.7 kilos and can last up to 40 minutes before needing to be charged, which is higher than most.

Other major providers of handstick vacuum cleaners are LG, Black & Decker and Monster, all of whose products will cost you roughly $300 or $400. There are other smaller providers out there which offer good deals on handstick vacuums, and one of these providers could just have the perfect vacuum for you. So ensure that you use that thing called the internet to do as much of your own research as you can before settling on a purchase.

In short, stick vacuum cleaners are a great innovation that can make your life a lot easier. If you have spaces that are hard to reach, or you don’t like to lug a big vacuum cleaner around, then a stick vacuum is a good option for you.

Vacuum cleaner buying guide

The post Stick Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide appeared first on Canstar Blue.

In a world where self-driving vehicles are about to become a thing, it should come as no surprise that a self-cleaning vacuum has already been invented, and has already been popular in homes worldwide for several years.

In America, robot vacuums have become extremely popular – you can insert your own jokes here about Americans being fat and lazy – but they seem to have been comparatively slow to catch on in Australia. However, if you think it’s time to put your feet up and let the technology do the hard work, this review of robot vacuum cleaners will guide you in the right direction.

This guide will seek to answer the following questions about robot vacuum cleaners:

• What are they and how do they work?
• How much do they cost?
• What features do they have?
• How long do they last?
• What are the pros and cons?
• Should I buy one?
• And who provides them in Australia?

What are robot vacuum cleaners?

It’s really quite a simple concept. Robot vacuum cleaners (also called Robovacs) are vacuum cleaners that clean your floors and carpets without you having to direct it. They are compact little appliances, usually no more than 10cm high, so they can easily fit into those hard to reach places like the underside of chairs, couches and other cabinets. They are circular in nature, and glide across your surfaces using little wheels to pick up any dirt and grime, so you don’t have to!

How do they work?

The biggest attraction to robot vacuum cleaners is the convenience factor. They are autonomous in their range of cleaning and operation, with their path determined by an inbuilt algorithm which attempts to achieve complete floor coverage (though this varies by manufacturer). They are equipped with infrared sensors, which they use to scan their surroundings and determine the location of obstacles. They’re also outfitted with ‘cliff sensors’ on their underside, which constantly checks for sudden drops – such as the tops of staircases – that could potentially damage them. They use sensors to adjust their course through your home, so you don’t need to lift a finger.

How much do they cost?

There is no definite answer to this question, since the prices of robot vacuum cleaners can vary according to the brand and factors within the vacuum. You can buy budget models that cost less than $100, whereas some higher end models go for well in excess of $1,000. You can check the prices of various different models through different retailers like Harvey Norman or The Good Guys. The price differences are mainly down to the power of the vacuum, longevity, and extra features of each model. We will discuss some of these features and the longevity of common models below.

Robot vacuum features to look for

The most advanced robot vacuum cleaners come with advanced features that can help to justify the higher prices. Some common features of robot vacuums include:

• Stair detection: This feature is standard across most basic models, and it helps your robovac detect if it’s about to walk off a ledge. Falls can obviously damage a small piece of technology like this, so this feature is a must have.
• Noise cancelling: Some models can be quite noisy, whereas others can be quitter than normal vacuums. The noises that they make tend to be a kind of mechanical whirring, which can really get on your nerves if you’re sitting nearby. You might want to consider getting a quitter vacuum.
• Virtual wall: This accessory can create invisible, virtual walls that create a barrier solely for your robot vacuum cleaner, to prevent them from entering certain areas.
• Scheduled cleaning: You can schedule your new robot vacuum cleaner to clean rooms of your house or apartment while you’re away. This is one of the key appeals of purchasing this type of appliance.
• Charging sensors: Some models come with sensors that automatically move the vacuum back to the charging station when it’s either finished or running low on batteries. This can be extremely convenient when combined with scheduled cleaning.
• Vacuum power: The more powerful a vacuum cleaner is, the better they will be at sucking up dirt and debris. Interestingly, the difference in price between vacuum cleaners is usually due to the efficiency of their navigation – size and power tends not to vary much to preserve mobility and battery life. If power is your priority, you’re better off simply buying a cheaper model.

How long do robot vacuum cleaners last?

Being honest, the batteries of these little machines doesn’t last all that long. For the high-end models, you’ll find that a fully charged battery will last for about two hours, which will obviously decrease for cheaper ones. Some brands like iRobot promise that its Robovac batteries will survive for about 400 charges before needing replacing, but you can increase this number if you take good care of it. Some tips for taking good care of your robot vacuum’s batteries are:

1. Regularly clean the brushes of any debris, dust and hair (weekly, if necessary)
2. Keep it charged and use if often, as you shouldn’t over-charge it by leaving it in the charging dock for days at a time
3. Exhaust the battery. Drain it every so often by running it until it dies
4. Keep it cool, as overheating is bad for most batteries. Keep it out of direct sunlight if possible
5. Put it in vacation mode. Doing so will ensure it remains healthy while not being used for weeks at a time

The pros and cons of robot vacuum cleaners

You might be in love with the idea of a robot vacuum, but you should be aware of the disadvantages that come with owning one. Robot vacuum cleaners aren’t perfect, and we’ve compiled a list of pros and cons to simplify it for you.

Should I buy a robot vacuum cleaner?

There are a number of reasons why a robot vacuum might be perfect for you, including if you:

1. Are physically unable to vacuum your home: Robovacs are perfect for people with disabilities or those who are too frail to operate an upright vacuum for an extended period of time. If you are one of these people, then a robot vacuum could be a godsend, requiring minimal effort to clean small spaces.
2. Have wooden or tiled floors: Robot vacuums sometimes struggle on carpets, but they work superbly on hard surfaces without pumps of rough textures. You need to reset your robot vacuum every time it gets beached like a tiny little whale, which can be extremely annoying. Having hard surfaces all but entirely eliminates the chances of this happening.
3. Clean regularly: For the neat freaks out there, robovacs are the perfect solution to everyday cleaning. They are designed with ease of use in mind, so they out clunky regular vacuums to shame in this regard.
4. Live in a small place: Robot vacuums are ideal for people who live in small houses/apartments or just want to clean one or two rooms. Most of the non-expensive Roombas can only clean a couple of rooms before needing to be charged.
5. Own a pet: If you’re a pet lover, then you’ll surely understand how annoying your lovable companions can be, particularly when they shed hair everywhere. Robot vacuums might not be the best solution for sucking up pet hair, but they are great at keeping on top of it in regards to regular cleaning. Plus, pets and robot vacuums make a hilarious combination, as you can see in the video below.

In addition the above points, Roombas themselves are just funny. So if you like robots or just want a good laugh, a cheap robot vacuum can easily entertain you with its stupidity. It’ll be a while before robots enslave us if they are any indication!

Who makes robot vacuum cleaners?

The robot vacuum market is still a relatively niche one here in Australia, with a few major brands dominating. There are a total of 13 robovac providers in Australia, but the most prominent ones are Samsung, LG, Hoover, iRobot and Dyson. These are the ones which are the most likely to give you a bang for your buck.

Are robot vacuum cleaners worth the money?

Robot vacuums are a perfect solution to the time-poor, the physically unable and for those who simply hate vacuuming. However, what you get in a robot vacuum often does not stack up to the sheer power that traditional vacuums provide – not only that but they often come at a cost premium. So you’ll have to weigh up if reduced functionality and increased cost is worth the convenience of ‘setting and forgetting’ that robot vacuums provide.

Moreover, if your house is primarily carpet-floored, we suspect that it’ll be a wasted venture buying a robot vacuum. For just a little bit of your time every week or so you can save money, and get a more thorough clean with a traditional vacuum. However, many of us don’t have the time or are physically unable to vacuum, and this is where a robot vacuum shines.

Compare Vacuum Cleaners

The post Robot Vacuum Cleaners Buying Guide appeared first on Canstar Blue.

Living in a small unit or a tight-on-space townhouse with nowhere to hide your vacuum cleaner? No problem! Let us show you some hints and tips for storing your vacuum between uses.

Some vacuum cleaners have a detachable specifically so they can fit into tiny cupboard spaces; as far back as 1966, educators like Alice Burton and Dr Virginia Trotter were looking for easier ways to use and store vacuum cleaners. They suggested attaching a hook to the back of the cupboard door to hold up the long hose or head attachment of the vacuum.

These days, of course, you could try something specially-made from IKEA. IKEA Australia has a wonderful little contraption for keeping your vacuum cleaner hose out of the way you’re your vacuum cleaner is not in use – for only $9.99! (For more detail, see their Variera product).

They also have storage units for cleaning items including vacuum cleaners, which fit right inside a thin pantry cupboard in your kitchen.

Other tips include storing your vacuum under the bed or sink, so that you can simply roll it out when needed.

An option for those in a house-share situation is to hang less and fold more. That way, your vacuum cleaner can live in your larger closet space while your shirts and shorts live on the closet shelves.

As for the size of the machine itself, Canstar Blue studies conducted by Colmar Brunton this year showed that Dyson customers were the happiest with the size of their vacuum cleaner – not too big or too small.

Canstar Blue vacuum cleaner reviews

If an upright is too big for your space and a handheld is too small, you can also consider trying a robot vacuum. Its small size and flat shape make it amazingly easy to store, and it takes on the physical effort of what is normally a big job.

Other articles you might like

Vacuum cleaners – our buying guide

Are robot cleaners the future?

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In a comedic turn, Canstar Blue studies conducted by Colmar Brunton this year show that while 66% of women believe they do most of the vacuuming in their house, 65% of men also believe they do most of the vacuuming.

Do we all hate vacuuming so much that each gender thinks we’re doing more work than the other? The results of this survey don’t show that, but it’s certainly clear that both men and women think they’re doing their fair share of the vacuuming.

Those in the younger end of Generation X were the only ones to find something different, with 60% of men and women in the 25 – 29 age group agreeing that women do most of the vacuuming in their house.

Canstar Blue vacuum cleaner reviews      

Previous studies by Canstar Blue have shown that overall, almost a quarter (23%) of women resented their partner for not pulling their weight in the household chores.

More than half of women feel that no one cleans the bathroom to their standards. Nearly one quarter of Australians say they often argue with their partner or family over the cleanliness of the bathroom.

The situation seems much the same in the UK, with a study by Sainsbury’s showing that while more men are helping out around the house than ever before, half of their women think they aren’t doing the job properly.

The study found nearly half the women said their men would often do the dishes, but not ‘finish the job’ by cleaning the sides of the sink and bench. A third of women said their men would happily cook dinner, but would balk at cleaning up the mess they’d created on the kitchen benches or stovetop afterwards.

A quarter of men said they were certain they were doing a satisfactory job of their household chores.

How to avoid bathroom arguments

The good news is that regardless of gender, our children and teenagers are still helping out around the house. A 2010 study by the Australian Institute of Family Studies showed that although the amount of work being done overall had dropped, children and teens were still doing a significant – if slightly lesser – percentage of housework compared with earlier studies from 1992 to 2006.

Studies by Harvard psychologist Richard Weissbourd have shown that chores teach children how to be empathetic and responsive to others’ needs instead of focussing solely on personal achievement and happiness. In research published last year, he and his team surveyed 10,000 middle school and high school students on these and other topics.

The data suggests we might benefit from training our men from a young age to be involved in household chores. Not just for our families, but for our men.

Other articles you might like

End of financial year sales – are you getting a bargain?

Vacuum cleaners – our buying guide

Are robot cleaners the future?

The post Who does all the vacuuming at your house? appeared first on Canstar Blue.

One in three Australians buy cheap vacuum cleaners and replace them when they stop working, a Canstar Blue survey has found. So, if we’re going to be throwing out old vacuum cleaners on a regular basis, how can we dispose of them in an environmentally-responsible way?

Small household appliances, such as vacuum cleaners, constitute electronic waste or ‘e-waste’. This means you can’t just stick your old vacuum in a recycling wheelie bin or drop it on the curb (unless you’ve booked a collection with your council). Electrical equipment contains hazardous substances that need to be treated in a special way, and is banned from landfill because it does not decompose.

Vacuum cleaner satisfaction ratings

How can I recycle my old vacuum cleaner?

It’s not hard to recycle your old vacuum cleaner. You might be surprised to know that about 90 per cent of the materials used to make electrical appliances can be recycled. Metal from the machine is used to make new metal items, while the plastics are recycled and used in the production of things like:

1. Outdoor furniture
2. Plastic plant pots
3. Dashboards for cars

If the vacuum still works well, you can give it away to your local charity or op shop. Charities generally get so many clothes that they are grateful for the odd appliance. However, don’t just dump your vacuum besides any old charity bin – the council can still issue fines for this. One man in Brisbane was fined nearly $2000 for illegal dumping after attempting to donate an old table. The best option is to visit the op shop in store hours. Op shops are a great way to recycle old appliances.

If the machine is dead as a doorknob and you’re buying a new one, you can trade in the old one for recycling at your local appliances dealer. Godfrey’s Australia actually offers a discount on buying a new vacuum cleaner if you drop off your old one with them to be recycled! You drop the old vacuum off, and they recycle every last part of it. Not only is this better for the environment, you can also be left with more money in your back pocket. You can view the range of discounts they have when trading-in here.

Planet Ark Campaign Manager Brad Gray said these recycling programs mean vacuum cleaners don’t just have to be another part of the landfill. “It is important that companies take responsibility for their products at the end of their life by putting in place collection and recycling programs,” he said. “It’s not yet a legal responsibility but it is a moral one.”

This comes after the Good Guys and Dyson ‘eco-trading’ campaign was established in 2011. This was a scheme whereby the two companies set up a ‘buyback’ scheme of old unwanted vacuum cleaners. It was a one month campaign, but Dyson still operates the buyback scheme today.

Dyson Australia is following the lead of Dyson UK in its initiative to pick up and recycle old vacuum cleaners for Dyson customers at no cost to the consumer. Dyson picks up the cost of recycling.

Where are some e-waste facilities near me?

Nationally there are a large range of private companies that are happy to take in any orphan appliances and recycle them. Whether they are free or not is another question. Many states are going green and now offer free ways to recycle e-waste; Planet Ark’s recyclingnearyou.com.au is a comprehensive database on where you can recycle e-waste nationwide. Here is a state-by-state breakdown of how to recycle e-waste:

Australian Capital Territory

The ACT has a host of e-waste recycling programs available here. Veterans and seniors are also eligible for one free e-waste pickup per year. If in doubt, the government also offers a list of what can be recycle here.

New South Wales

The City of Sydney offers a comprehensive website on how to recycle e-waste in the city, and hosts E-Waste Drop off Days at the Sydney Park Depot on various days throughout the year. For more information, visit the City Council website here.

The Northern Territory

Sadly the NT and City of Darwin are a little lacking when it comes to e-waste recycling facilities. All states and territories are under the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme, but that doesn’t cover larger white goods like vacuum cleaners.

Queensland

South East Queensland is well-covered when it comes to recycling e-waste. In Brisbane, residents can take their vacuum cleaner to the marked e-waste recycling bins at transfer stations, for free. The Gold Coast has free e-waste recycling depots across the city. The list is here and a few are run by the Endeavour Foundation, who will donate appliances in good working order.The Sunshine Coast also has a number of e-waste recycling facilities.

South Australia

In South Australia, you can use the Recycle Right search engine to find your local charity to give it away to. Zero Waste SA also recommends trying your local scrap metal recyclers, as they offer free collection in metropolitan areas.

Tasmania

Boasting the moniker ‘The Green State’, it might be unsurprising that Tasmania has e-waste facilities ‘littered’ all over the state. Specifically, these councils offer comprehensive information about where you can recycle e-waste in their respective jurisdictions:

• The Northern Midlands
• The City of Hobart
• Burnie City Council

Victoria

The City of Melbourne has one free e-waste recycling day each year. It also has a range of strategies in place to create a greener city. More information can be found here.

Western Australia

The WA Government and councils in the state have a number of schemes in place to tackle e-waste recycling. There is a permanent e-waste recycling facility located in Balcatta, just outside of Perth. The City of Bunbury also has a number of e-waste recycling facilities available. National Recycling Week in 2016 is on between 7-13 November. It’s an important week in our social calendar to learn about how to recycle every imaginable appliance and gadget, and how to take better care of the environment.

Vacuum cleaner buying guide

The post How to recycle your old vacuum cleaner appeared first on Canstar Blue.

On average, Aussies are spending more than $370 on their vacuum cleaners, but many still aspire to own the best that money can buy.

That’s one of the findings of a new Canstar Blue survey, which saw Dyson vacuum cleaners rated highest of eight major brands.

“Consumers don’t mind spending a good amount on a vacuum cleaner that makes cleaning the home as easy as possible,” said Head of Canstar Blue, Megan Doyle. “We always want great value for money but more than anything, consumers demand a vacuum cleaner that lives up to expectations and really performs.

“But it’s also got to be easy to use. There’s no point having a powerful vacuum if you struggle to manoeuvre it around your house.”

Source: www.canstarblue.com.au Vacuum Cleaners survey 2015, conducted by Colmar Brunton

How much do we spend on vacuum cleaners?

The survey, of 1,364 adults who bought a new vacuum cleaner in the last three years, found the average amount spent to be $373. Those in Western Australia spent the most ($464) and Queensland the least ($316). And generally the older you get, the more you are likely to spend, with those aged 18-24 spending an average of $286 compared to adults in their 50s who spent an average of $408.

Almost half (48%) of respondents were replacing a vacuum cleaner that had stopped working, while 27% were upgrading to a better model and 12% wanted an additional appliance. Consumers who were replacing an old vacuum cleaner were doing so after an average of 6.7 years.

Thirty per cent of survey respondents said they tend to buy cheap vacuum cleaners and replace them when they stop working, while 46% have more than one vacuum in their home. And two out of five (39%) dream of owning a top of the line vacuum.

“Most consumers are convinced it pays to spend a little more,” said Mrs Doyle. “It can be tempting to take the cheap option when you’re shopping, but when it comes to vacuuming your home, you might regret it.

“Spending that extra bit may even save you in the long run if you have to replace your vacuum cleaner more regularly because you bought a cheap model.”

Dyson delivers overall customer satisfaction

Consumers who purchased Dyson vacuum cleaners were the most satisfied with their purchase, the survey found. Vax received notable recognition for offering value for money, but Dyson was the only brand to score five-star ratings for effective cleaning and ease of use. Dyson also recorded top marks from consumers for size and noise levels. Read the full ratings report here.

It is the third time in four years that Dyson has picked up Canstar Blue’s Most Satisfied Customers Award for vacuum cleaners, with Shark finishing top of the ratings in 2014.

“Survey respondents who bought a Dyson vacuum cleaner use few words to describe their purchase – because it simply does a great job,” said Mrs Doyle. “They report reliable, easy to maintain, easy to use and powerful vacuums that make cleaning the house hassle free. Most Dyson owners seem convinced they have the best that money can buy.”

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Just when you thought the dust had blown over, a new generation of robot vacuum cleaners are starting to emerge from under sofas in South Korea. Samsung and LG are two of the world’s leading producers of robotic vacuums, and seem determine to persuade consumers to put their feet up, relax, and let the machines deal with the mess.

The two brands boast some pretty exciting innovations in the world of cleaning up dirt off the floor, but which is really king of the carpets? Canstar Blue reviews robot vacuum cleaners from Samsung and LG, to determine which might be the best bet for your home.

Samsung POWERbot VR7000

Samsung recently got everyone talking about robot vacuum cleaners again with the unveiling of its POWERbot VR7000 (pictured) – the latest addition to its family of high-end robotic vacuums. This new model is designed to offer unparalleled convenience, while addressing the short comings of robotic vacuums before it, namely clumsiness and inability to clean hard-to-reach places.

The VR7000 has a pretty modest 20W suction, but compensates for this with Samsung’s new ‘Edge Clean Master’ and ‘Auto Shutter’ features which improve suction and enables the VR7000 to reach within 15mm of the wall. Its maximum run time on normal mode is 90 minutes, which is notably shorter than some other Samsung robotic vacuums.

In standard Samsung appliances fashion, the POWERbot VR7000 comes loaded with intelligent features. It has visionary mapping and full-view sensors which allow it to map and navigate rooms and obstacle, as well as adjust its suction power to optimise cleaning for different types of floors. But that’s only the start. The POWERbot VR7000 can be controlled and monitored remotely by mobile app. You can even schedule cleaning times and check your cleaning history on the go.

The VR7000 also comes with Amazon Echo, which lets users control their POWERbot through voice commands. According Samsung head of product for home appliances, Mike Lilly, users can give each room a name and simply tell the POWERbot to go there and clean.

The Samsung VR7000 doesn’t stack up to its predecessors in terms of specs, but it’s not really meant to. While Samsung robotic vacuum cleaners have always included intelligent features, the POWERbot VR7000 truly emphasises convenience while improving cleaning reachability.

Samsung robot vacuums

Samsung is one of the pioneers of robotic vacuum cleaner technology. While the POWERbot VR7000 is Samsung’s flagship product, the South Korean manufacturer has four other models of POWERbot vacuum cleaner available in Australia. Here’s how they line up:

Source: Samsung website

Samsung is not one to make cheap, low-quality appliances, and it’s no different when it comes to robotic vacuum cleaners. Even the least powerful POWERbot, the SR20H9050U, is comparable to leading products from other manufacturers, with 70 watts of suction power and a one-hour standard run time.

For those willing to spend a little more, the POWERbot VR9200 is the most powerful robo vac in Australia, according to Samsung. The VR9300 also boasts a powerful engine, and has one of the longest run times you’ll find.

All Samsung POWERbot vacuum cleaners include comprehensive room scanners for improved navigation, point and clean remote controls, and a host of different cleaning modes. The VR9200 can be monitored and controlled through a mobile app, while the VR9300 can be programmed to recognise and clean individual rooms upon command through a smartphone app.

LG robot vacuums

LG doesn’t claim that its robot vacuum cleaners have the best specs on the market, but that doesn’t mean these units are any less effective at cleaning.

LG robot vacuum cleaners have a square design with long corner brushes to help it reach corners and edges. In addition, all LG robo vacs include a smart turbo mode that automatically increases suction upon detecting carpeted areas.

The LG robotic vacs get smarter as they go up in price. With the Turbo models for example, users can set a ‘MySpace’ area. With the press of a button, the robovac will clean just the area you’ve identified. This is a great feature for households with rugs.

The top of the line LG robotic vacuum is currently the Roboking Turbo with Homeview. This lets users remotely operate the vacuum and see through its camera via a mobile app. It also serves as a security system, notifying you of any unexpected movement in the house while you’re gone.

This is how the LG robot vacuum range lines up:

Source: LG website

So which is better, LG or Samsung?

LG and Samsung take different approaches to robot vacuum cleaners. On the one hand you have Samsung, which focuses on raw power and run time, while LG instead focuses on intelligent features and cleaning practicality. That said, both appliance companies offer some of the most effective robot vacuum cleaners in Australia, and both price toward the higher end of the market.

Choosing LG or Samsung will largely come down to a matter of preference. Here’s a summary of the positives and negatives for you to consider.

If you’re not entirely convinced by either of these brands, or they cost a little more than you’re willing to spend on a robot vacuum cleaner, you have plenty of other options. Keep in mind that while robotic vacuum cleaners are convenient, they’re not yet a suitable substitute to stick or canister vacuum cleaners. If you are in the market for a standard vacuum cleaner, then be sure to check Canstar Blue’s customer satisfaction ratings to see which brand Aussies prefer.

Vacuum Cleaner Reviews & Ratings

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We all love the family pet. They’re so full of character and always so happy to see you when you walk through the door. For all of Pooch’s plus sides, however, there still exists one undeniable downside – he or she sheds hair absolutely everywhere! It seems like a never-ending task of vacuuming up their hair, and even then you’ll still be left finding the odd hair in unexpected places. It’s an all too common story. You don’t want to vacuum the house five times a day, but your dog sheds so much that five times seems like a minimum standard.

For pet hair, particularly in carpet and upholstery, you’ll want a vacuum cleaner that packs a powerful punch, but also comes with fittings that help that suction really get in amongst the carpet fibres to pull out tangled-in animal hair.

Vacuum cleaners for pet hair

There are a massive number of vacuum cleaners claimed to be effective at picking up pet hair. Here is a list of brands and models currently available that are advertised as good for cleaning up pet hair:

Hoover

• Pets Bagless Vacuum
• Action Power Head Bagless Vacuum
• Action Pets Power Head Vacuum
• Allergy Power Head Bagless Vacuum
• Regal Premium Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
• Allergy Power Head Vacuum Cleaner
• Eco Pets Turbo Bagless Vacuum
• Pets 5002 Bagged Vacuum Cleaner
• Little Wonder Stickvac Lemon/Melon/Lime
• Ultra Power 21.6V 2-in-1 Stickvac
• Dog & Cat Turbo Bagless Vacuum
• Dog and Cat 5013PH Bagless Vacuum
• Air Stick Pro 25.2V Stickvac

Wertheim

• W2000 Dog & Cat Vacuum Cleaner
• W2500 Dog & Cat Bagless Vacuum
• W1000 Bagged Vacuum Cleaner
• W2200 Pets Bagless Upright Vacuum

Electrolux

• SilentPerformer Animal Bagless Vacuum
• SilentPerformer Animal All Floors
• UltraFlex Animal Allergy Pro
• UltraFlex Animal Allergy
• UltraFlex Animal Allergy Power
• UltraSilencer Pet Lover
• Powerforce Animal All Floors
• Powerforce Animal

Vorwerk

• Kobold VK150 Upright Vacuum
• Kobold VR200 Robot Vacuum

Nilfisk

• Select Comfort Pet Bagged Vacuum
• Bravo Pet Pack

Sauber

• Excellence SE-400 Vacuum Cleaner
• Intelligence SI-200 Vacuum

Shark

• Rocket TruePet Handstick
• Rotator TruePet Powered Lift-Away

Vax

• VX28 Power 5 Pet Barrel
• VCP7P2400 Power 7 Pet Barrel
• VCAP1500 Air Pet Barrel
• VX38 Pet Barrel
• VX39 Pet Pro Barrel
• VX51 SlimVac Pet Cordless Handstick
• VX52 SlimVac Pet Plus Cordless Handstick
• VMP8PU Mach Power 8 Pet Upright
• VX35 Gator Pet Handheld

Dyson

• DC58 Animal
• V6 Animal
• V8 Animal
• Cinetic Big Ball Animal Pro
• V6 Absolute

Miele

• Compact C2 Cat&Dog
• Complete C3 Cat&Dog
• Swing H1 Cat&Dog Turbo PowerLine upright

What are the top-rated vacuum cleaners for pet hair?

So, what are the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair? It’s a subjective point really. Let’s compare some of the most popular and recent models to offer some guidance and give you an idea of what to look for at different price points.

Whatever amount you’re looking to pay, consider whether or not to get a bagged or bagless vacuum – bagless may involve stray hairs flying everywhere when you open it to empty.

Dyson vacuum cleaners for pet hair

Dyson is a titan when it comes to vacuum cleaners – it’s the brand’s forte. Though, one particular model shines above the rest when it comes to vacuuming pet hair. It’s the Cinetic Big Ball Animal Pro (Animal Pro for short). The ‘Animal Pro’ comes in the storied list of Cinetic Big Balls and is sure to easily make a dent in your dog’s floor-dwelling hair. As is typical of Dyson, each model is one step ahead of the last, with innovative technologies wooing customers over the world.

The most noteworthy part of the Animal Pro vacuum cleaner – and any Cinetic Big Ball in fact – is that its chassis is almost immune to tipping over. This makes whizzing around the carpets to clean up Pooch’s hair a breeze, and you don’t have to worry about an overzealous dog tipping over the vacuum cleaner.

We have to announce one major downside to the Animal Pro, though – it retails from $999! It is clearly not a cheap vacuum cleaner then, but if you’ve bought a Dyson before, then you’ll realise that it is not a budget brand – and quality comes at a price. We also suspect that the rate of buyers’ remorse for Dyson vacuums is pretty low.

If it’s not so much the pet hair that’s the issue, but rather allergies in the household, then the Big Ball Allergy edition from Dyson may be the more viable, cheaper alternative. Retailing for $200 cheaper, the Allergy is a no-mess, no fuss vacuum cleaner that won’t set your sneezes off. Whichever Big Ball model you choose, we imagine you’ll be satisfied with their pet hair cleaning capabilities. Learn more and buy at Appliance Online.

Hoover vacuum cleaners for pet hair

Hoover is the old stalwart of the vacuum cleaning world, before young whipper snappers such as Dyson came along and turned things on their heads. Hoover was so popular in the 20^thcentury that the brand name pretty much replaced the words ‘vacuum cleaner’ in many households. “Go and get the hoover!” You might be surprised to know that Hoover is still hoover-ing up a tidy market share today, providing some great vacuums for households with pets. One of the most popular is the Dog & Cat Turbo Bagless Vacuum.

The ‘Dog & Cat Turbo Bagless’ features a 1800W motor, and also comes with an upholstery brush to make picking off pet hair on furniture especially easy. It is classified as anti-allergy, and has a HEPA filter. So not only should it clean up your dog’s hair, you also won’t be left watery eyed and sneezing in the process.

The Dog & Cat Turbo Bagless vacuum comes in at a more intermediate price – $299, which is more palatable for a lot of people than the Dyson. Though, the price of the Dyson vacuum is reflected in its sheer range of features and perks. Aside from pet hair attachments, the Hoover remains a mystery as to how it is better than a generic vacuum for cleaning pet hair. Though if you’re just looking for a vacuum generally geared towards pet hair vacuuming, we suspect the Hoover is a very attractive package; it’ll save you forking out over 500 extra dollars. Learn more and buy at Appliance Online.

How Much Energy Does a Vacuum Cleaner Use?

Miele vacuum cleaners for pet hair

While high-end home appliance manufacturer Miele is perhaps better known for its contributions to the kitchen, Miele is also well regarded by consumers for its vacuum cleaners. The Complete C3 Cat&Dog PowerLine is – retailing at $729 – quite a pricey vacuum. But as with anything Miele, you should think of it as a long-term ‘investment’.

The 2000W motor makes it hell on earth for any pet hair on the floor, and is assisted by the turbobrush that works into the carpet to lift out hair and lint. And your vacuum won’t go around blowing that musty animal hair smell everywhere thanks to the Active AirClean filter, designed to neutralise odours before they escape the exhaust.

If the C3 seems a bit too expensive, you could always knock off $200 and go for the more space-efficient Compact C2 Cat&Dog Powerline. With a slightly weaker 1800W motor, it still features the turbobrush and Active AirClean filter, but packages it into a more compact space-saving design. This could make it a preferable choice for those sharing a small space with their furry friend. Less space taken up by cleaning equipment means more space to store treats and toys to spoil your favourite non-human. Learn more and buy at Appliance Online.

Bosch vacuum cleaners for pet hair

If you like Bosch power tools, you might be inclined to complete the set with a Bosch vacuum cleaner. We’re not sure exactly how to pronounce the name of the bagless Relaxx’x Zoo’o ProAnimal vacuum cleaner, but it comes with some solid features. It includes the Animal 360 kit, which gives you a full set of nozzles for carpet, upholstery, and hard floor cleaning targeted towards the cleaning needs of animal owners. The turbo brush vacuums and brushes at the same time to dig out pet hairs that have managed to settle themselves in amongst the carpet fibres, while at the same time fluffing up the pile after it’s been trodden all over and napped on during the copious naps enjoyed by household pets.

The fully automated SelfClean System means you don’t need to come into contact with allergy-triggering dust during filter cleaning, while the washable HEPA hygienic filter is also designed with allergy sufferers in mind. Retailing at $799, it’s again no bargain buy, but you may have to cop the cost if you’re looking for something that can properly clean up after your pet. Learn more and buy at Appliance Online.

Electrolux vacuum cleaners for pet hair

There are quite a lot of different options for pet parents in the Electrolux vacuum cleaner range, and at some more moderate price points. The bagless Silent Performer Cyclonic Animal All Floors comes with a 1600W motor which has one of the lowest operating noise levels in the Electrolux vacuum range. It may be a real snip at just $349.

This vacuum is designed to be adaptable to cleaning all different kinds of flooring, with three different included nozzle attachments. The ‘DustMagnet Silence’ main flooring nozzle is said to provide a quieter clean without sacrificing performance, while the full sized Turbo nozzle and Hardfloor tools are targeted towards extra suction and gently gliding along hard flooring respectively. It’s also easy to filter out any allergens from your home with the HEPA washable filter – just tuck Mittens away in the bedroom and use the vacuum to make the rest of the home safe for your allergic-to-cats guests. Learn more and buy at Appliance Online.

What about robot vacuums for pet hair?

The best vacuum is the one where you don’t have to get up off the couch, right?! The robot vacuum has also become a lifesaver for those of us with particularly hirsute pets. Your robot friend has no qualms about vacuuming every day – or several times a day! Pick up one of these mobile treasures and you can look forward to walking barefoot on a clean floor whenever you want.

One popular robot vacuum is the Neato Botvac D85, which will set you back nearly $2,000. Convenience doesn’t come cheap, but when it comes time to vacuum, the couch never looks so inviting. The Botvac features touch controls, larger brushes and three large filters to capture dust and dirt, and a boundary marker which prevents it from trundling down the stairs. Its unique D shape helps it get into corners. The D85 is the strongest vacuum in the Neato D range, and is the recommended choice for picking up pet hair.

Robotic vacuums are still in their infancy, and as such, traditional vacuums may get the job done a lot quicker. That’s not too bad, though – since you don’t have to do any of the manual work, it might not be such an inconvenience to let the little buddy take a couple of extra passes over the floor to get the job done, so you can do more interesting things with your time.

Vacuum Cleaner Reviews & Ratings

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