Bag Denotes whether the model has a disposable bag. A growing number of vacuums, particularly upright models, use a container that can be emptied eliminating the bag. However, to capture the fine-dirt particles, these models must use a filter (such as a HEPA filter), which can need regular cleaning, or replacement. Replacement filters tend to be significantly more expensive than bags. While vacuums with bags may also use filters, the bag acts as a prefilter that helps to keep the fine-dirt filter cleaner thus extending its performance between cleaning or replacement. Another caveat: Emptying the dustbin and cleaning a filter can be messy, and handling it may expose you to dust and other allergens.
Bag
Yes
Weight (lbs.) Weight of the vacuum cleaner, to the nearest pound.
Weight (lbs.)
24
Cord length (ft.) The length, in feet, of a model's power cord.
Cord length (ft.)
27
Standard-bag cost ($/bag) The cost per replacement paper bag, in U.S. dollars (rounded to the nearest 25 cents), for vacuums that use a bag. "NA" means the bag is not available from the manufacturer; "-" indicates a bagless vacuum.
Standard-bag cost ($/bag)
1.75
Microfilter-bag cost ($/bag) The cost per replacement microfiltration bag, capable of trapping 99 percent of particles 0.5 microns or more in size, for vacuums that use a bag. Cost is in U.S. dollars, rounded to the nearest 25 cents. "NA" means the bag is not available from the manufacturer; "-" indicates a bagless vacuum.
Microfilter-bag cost ($/bag)
4.5
Features
Manual-pile adjust Adjusts the height of the machine to a carpet's pile height to allow for easy movement and thorough cleaning. Adjustments are automatic on some models, but we prefer the manual control afforded by some models.
Manual-pile adjust
Yes
Suction control This feature reduces the flow of air through the hose, which can be helpful when cleaning upholstery and curtains.
Suction control
Yes
Brush on/off This feature allows you to turn off the brush when using tools or cleaning bare floors, eliminating any hazard should the vacuum tip over while you have the hose extended.
Brush on/off
Yes
Retractable cord Common in canisters, not uprights, a retractable cord is one you can rewind via a slight tug or a push button.
Retractable cord
Yes
Easy on/off A switch that's located on the handle or where your foot can activate it is more convenient than one on the body of the vacuum.
Easy on/off
Yes
High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter High-efficiency particulate-air (HEPA) filters provide the highest level of vacuum-cleaner filtration. In our tests, models with a HEPA filter have been very effective at reducing emissions. However, some models that don't have HEPA filters have performed just as well in our tests, and such vacuums may cost less than HEPA models.
High efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
Yes
Folds for storage Handle folds to minimize storage space.
Folds for storage
No
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