Look into the lightweight options available to find vacuum cleaners that'll be easier to push, carry, and store. Metal components in a vacuum cleaner are better than plastic but they will make the unit much heavier. And bagged upright vacuum cleaners use the bags as a filter to trap the dirt.

A vacuum cleaner should exhaust only fresh, clean air. Bagless models use a series of filters to trap dirt in a dust cup while allowing air to pass through the machine; however, they can be very messy to empty, making it hard to control the dirt. For carpets, make sure the vacuum has enough suction power, especially for those with deep pile.

Canisters at the uppermost end of the price range may be expensive and not necessarily of higher quality or more effective. Higher priced uprights have a much wider cleaning path, possibly dirt sensors, and some will be self-propelled; they may have pre-motor filters to protect the motor from damage too. Check and see what the amps of the vacuum cleaner are.

Of course you want to get the cleanest possible 'clean' for your carpets and rugs. Consider where the vacuum cleaner will be stored to make sure it will fit into the space. Canister vacuum cleaners can come with or without a bag.

Make sure attachments are easy to put together, take apart, stay together and are airtight. Try assembling and taking apart all the attachments before you buy. Though they may not be more powerful, higher priced uprights have a lot of gadgets that may be handy for your home, that is providing you use them.

Some canister vacuum cleaners offer HEPA filtration. Always check and see how long the warranty is good for; the longer the better. You may want to find a canister vacuum cleaner with wheels that won't scuff or damage the floors.

A low-end upright model will usually have just a suction hose with a crevice tool, stair brush, and extended wand piece. Find the extra tools and features you need, and forget about the ones you don't need. Do you know if you want an upright or canister?

HEPA filters trap small particles that may cause respiratory and other lung problems for asthma and allergy sufferers and others in the household with health problems. Make sure you get a good feel for the vacuum and its handle and accessories so you know if you can handle it if you have any disabilities or physical problems. Get a unit with a good filtration system and protect your precious lungs and overall health. You might consider one of the lighter weight models if you have physical issues.

True or absolute HEPA filters must pass a strict test to be considered worthy of a HEPA rating. HEPA is a type of filter that can trap a large amount of very small particles that other vacuum cleaners re-circulate back into the air in your home. True or absolute HEPA filters are usually more expensive than the other HEPA filters.

Don't be completely dazzled by a complete array of attachments. Buying a vacuum cleaner online or offline does not have to be intimidating when you've done your research. And make sure to add on replacement bags to your initial investment if they're required.