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Published
by the Corpus Christi Caller-Times. CLICK FOR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY
| Home & Garden readers might also want to read Keep it Green, a gardening column by Michael Womack. |
Saturday, August 11, 2001
Vacuuming and loving it
When it comes to dirt, the right vacuum makes a difference
Scripps Howard News Service
Dust bunnies, beware. Vacuum cleaners are firing up in earnest. Here's what's put there:
Bagless vacuum cleaners. Available from all the major manufacturers, including Eureka and Hoover, bagless vacuums collect the dirt in a clear container that can be easily emptied. The theory behind this technology is that traditional vacuums lose their effectiveness as the bag gets full, but it is sometimes difficult to tell when it needs changing.
More choices in stick vacs. A stick vac is an ultra lightweight vacuum used on hard surfaces. It collects the dirt in a dust cup that is emptied regularly. They are increasing in popularity as more people choose wood and tile floors in many areas of the house. Dirt Devil has a model with a cleaning surface shaped like a wedge to fit easily into corners.
Power steamers. The new home steamers are lightweight and easy to maneuver, fill and empty. They both clean and dry the carpet. Power cleaning also is available in hand vacs that more closely resemble a Dust Buster than a full-size model. These work well for small spills or pet problems.
More cordless models. Several manufacturers offer a full line of cordless, rechargeable vacuums that includes hand vacs, stick vacs and upright models. While often not as powerful as cord models, they are perfect for smaller areas such as mobile homes and boats.
Self-propelled models. A powerful vacuum cleaner often has some heft to it. For people with back or shoulder problems or those who aren't as strong as they used to be, it sometimes is difficult to maneuver such a vacuum cleaner. Self-propelled vacuums solve that problem, with forward and reverse available at the touch of a control.
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