A Clean Sweep of Vacuum Cleaners

A regular sweep through the home with your vacuum cleaner does wonders for reducing problems related to poor indoor air quality, particularly with issues of dust mites, dander, and other irritants. Specialized vacuums suck up pet hair.

The new kid on the block is the Halo vacuum. It has a built-in ultraviolet light bulb that disrupts the DNA of viruses, bacteria, flea eggs, and dust mites. When vacuuming, you activate the light. The Halo vacuum is suggested for cleaning carpets and mattresses. Similar technology is being used in heating and air-conditioning ducts. Anywhere it is dark and dusty, the idea is to shine light on the potential problem. (Stay tuned on this one because the scientific tests and reviews are still underway.)

The micron is the measure of the microscopic particulates that find their way into air passages. The best machine is one that includes a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter, which can pick up 99.97 percent of particulates as small as 0.3 microns, the size of cat dander, and on up, including such irritants as dust mite droppings (10 to 20 microns), and pollen, weighing in at a whopping 15 to 25 microns. They can also catch chemical pollutants such as flame-retardants, phthalates, and pesticides.

The vacuum cleaner is an investment in your home's air quality, but it won't help much if it isn't routinely put into service and maintained. Be sure to take these steps to properly use and care for your appliance:

• Vacuum often - once a week or more frequently if someone in your home has allergies, or you have pets.

• Vacuum more in areas with high foot traffic, such as the area in front of your couch.

• Change bags or canisters before they're full to avoid spilling dirt when you empty and change.

• Replace the filters and maintain according to manufacturer's guidelines.

• Assist your vacuum cleaner with its chore by dusting furniture regularly (less to fall on the floor) and taking off shoes before tracking dirt onto floors and carpets.

• When carrying, grip the vacuum by the handle, not the hose.

• Remove hair entangling the brushes.

• If you're using a bagless vacuum, empty the canister outside to help alleviate any allergen concerns and wipe the vacuum cleaner with a slightly damp cloth.

Investing in the best vacuum cleaner you need and can afford makes environmental sense. The embodied energy that went into manufacturing it certainly warrants its good care and long life. A model with a lifetime warranty is something to look for. Also, buy from a company that you can purchase parts or repairs from rather than simply replace the vacuum down the road.  ....read more