Many of the full-sized models come with more of the features buyers are looking for. Make sure that the height of the machine can be set low enough and that the plate and wheels won't scratch your floors. A good vacuum cleaner will pick up from your carpet and your hard-floors; many vacuums don't pick up well on all surfaces.

It may be a bit more difficult to find as many of the bells and whistles on the lightweight models. You can choose between a lightweight and heavyweight machine. For carpets, make sure that the vacuum has enough suction power, especially for thick carpet or rugs with deep pile.

Uprights that are in the higher price ranges may have suction hoses that are more sturdy and crush resistant. Canister vacuums range in price anywhere from $140 to $1500. Are you sure you really need a deluxe model?

This vacuum will be cheaper though in the long run, because you're not buying and using up bags, but they may not be as healthy. On the other hand, it'll cost more buying a unit with a bag because you'll be buying bags ongoing.

Many people find they don't like to bend over to move the vacuum around so they prefer an upright over a canister. And if you have any physical limitations or health problems you'll probably want to choose an upright.

Make sure to find out how much common replacement parts will cost. If you're not buying online or you have a store where you can give this a try - try assembling and taking apart the attachments before you buy. Make sure attachments are easy to put together and take apart and that they stay together and are airtight. A low-end upright model will usually only have a suction hose with a crevice tool, stair brush, and an extended wand piece.

Find out how much air watts there are to get a good indication of the unit's suction power. The highest priced upright models may carry every possible feature; they also may be true HEPA vacuums. And canister vacuum cleaners can come with a bag or be bagless. List the extra tools and features you need, and forget about the ones you don't need. Find out how often the belts, filters, and other items will need to be cleaned and/or replaced.

If possible test for air-tightness. You can do this by vacuuming for a couple of minutes or so with a floor model and see how much dust has collected on the outside of the vacuum cleaner. It's always best to buy a vacuum with a good filtration system and protect the lungs and health of you and your family. True or absolute HEPA filters are usually more expensive than other type of HEPA filters. A vacuum without a bag may leak dust, dust mites, mold spores, fungus, bacteria and allergen particles into the air that so small you may not be able to see all of them.

To receive the industry true or absolute HEPA designation, filters must perform to a certain standard. It's up to you to decide if a true HEPA is necessary for your family, or if capturing a smaller amount of particles is worth the price break on the cost of filters. However your family's health should be worth paying a little higher price. HEPA-like or HEPA type filters may only capture roughly 85 to 90 percent of particles and that percent can fall even lower for particles of 1 micron and below, unlike the true or absolute HEPA filters, so give this some serious thought.

Make sure you compare several vacuum models and features. You want to get vacuum cleaner ratings and reviews which you can easily find online. Some of the well known brands include Miele, Electrolux, Kirby, Dyson, Rainbow, Hoover, Shark, Eureka, Royal, Panasonic, Kenmore, Bissell, Fantom. There is also the Roomba which is the robot vacuum cleaner that vacuums your floors for you. When you've found your dream model, make sure you know what you need to do in terms of service and read the warranty. A quality vacuum cleaner can be an excellent investment if you do your homework first.