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For every corner, curve, and crumb on the climb.
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Well, heres your chance to step up your stair-vacuuming game.
Weight matters, as does the nozzle and length of the cord.
If your vacuum is inherently awkward, youre going to know about it on the first step.
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The weight distribution felt a little clunky and unstable.
Basically, you get your moneys worth with this powerful, shiny cleaning tool.
Dyson is known for the maneuverability of its vacuums, and this one is no exception.
The onboard screen tells you what its picking up, and the HEPA filter keeps your homes air cleaner.
We kept using it after the original testing period was over, and it continued to impress.
One downside was how loud it was in boost modethe high-pitched whine could be too much for sensitive users.
punch in:Cordless |Weight:8 lbs.
It doesnt come with any attachments.
This vacuum doesnt use a bagrather, it has a rinsable filter for waste-free operation.
Its also easy to emptyjust push a single button, remove, dump, and replace with a click.
Then again, for this price, we arent complaining.
key in:Cordless |Weight:5 lbs.
|Dustbin Capacity:0.4 liters |Runtime:12 min.
The turbo action brush doesnt work well on high-pile carpet.
We loved the digital screen and single-button suction activation.
bang out:Cordless stick |Weight:6 lbs.
|Dustbin Capacity:0.8 L |Runtime:60 min.
Its loud, especially when using the roller bar.
PHOTO: Real Simple
jot down:Upright |Weight:16 lbs.
The small dustbin means frequent emptying while you’re cleaning.
you could also manually empty the bin during or after cleaning by pulling a handy lever.
throw in:Cordless |Weight:14 lbs.
|Dustbin Capacity:0.4 L |Runtime:1520 min.
The hardwood floor attachment felt flimsy and awkward.
In contrast, the hardwood floor attachment seemed flimsy and was awkward to move.
However, these difficulties didnt change how much we loved this machine overall.
punch in:Canister |Weight:22 lbs.
For those with a smaller budget in mind, theDirtDevil Versa Cordless 3-in-1 Stick Vacis another great choice.
Next, we tested for effectiveness on wood and carpeted stairs.
For the vacuums with filters, we also removed and cleaned the filter.
Finally, we tested runtime for battery-operated models at both high and low parameters.
To find the best vacuum for you, think about your cleaning needs.
Theyre really light and make it easy to do the job.
You want to have a vacuum you’re free to hold easily when youre on the stairs.
If you do choose a corded model, consider where your plugs are and ways to minimize hassle.
The length of the cord can be a huge disadvantage, Leipheimer cautions.
All of our corded vacuums meet this requirement.
Bossart explains that theres often a trade-off, though, when it comes to balancing weight and utility.
Cordless vacuums are lighter, but most batteries dont last long.
Corded uprights are higher powered, but theyre super heavyusually too heavy for stairs.
Power
Suction power is what gives vacuums their oomph for cleaning.
The greater the suction power, the greater the cleaning power.
Suction is especially important when cleaning carpeted areas.
The greater the wattage and CFM, the more powerful the vacuum.
Power is usually directly correlated to the power source of a vacuum.
Everyone hates doing stairs, Leipheimer says.
Are there robot vacuums that go up and down stairs?
What is the best way to vacuum stairs?
Its easier to work your way down backward.
If you do this, youll get perfect stairs every time.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written byLauren Bongard, a contributing writer forReal Simple.
PHOTO: Real Simple
PHOTO: Real Simple
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