What Makes Dyson Vacuums So Practical?

When it comes to vacuum cleaners, Dyson is a clear brand name leader in the market. You can compare Dyson's image to Apple. In the computer marketplace, there are also dozens of big names. But the sexy, most popular and typically most expensive line of computers is Apple. Dyson carries a similar brand image with their stylish and sexy looking bright-colored vacuums.

But in addition to their good looks, Dyson has some serious engineering in their vacuums and pioneered many new concepts to address the old-traditional problems of conventional vacuums. Here's a look at what makes Dyson vacuums so practical, and why they're today's leading vacuum cleaners.

Easy To Carry - Many people say that their Dyson vacuums are "light", but when you actually compare the weight of Dyson vacuums to others, they're all pretty much the same weight. Somewhere in the range of 22-28 pounds. I think the main difference is the design of the vacuum, and where the Dyson handle is located to lift and carry it around. The carrying handle is right in the middle, just above the dust bin collector. And the shape of the handle is a good size and molded nicely, so it feels comfortable to the hand. The design of Dyson upright vacuums definitely makes it easy to carry up and down the stairs.

Easy to handle - I've got two Dyson vacuums actually. The older model I have is on 4 wheels, but now most of their current models implement Dyson's Ball Technology. And the new "Ball Tech" vacuums are fun and easy to operate. The idea is simple, but again, Dyson invented and patented this design. With four-wheels, you are restricted to a forward and backward motion. This makes it difficult to maneuver tight corners, in and out around furniture and other obstacles in your home. Dyson's "Ball Technology" addresses this limitation, allowing their vacuums to ride on "one" ball. This effectively lets you pivot instantly in and around whatever direction you need the vacuum to go. This takes a bit getting use to, but once you get comfortable with it, you'll find yourself steering the vacuum easily with the twist of your wrist.

Suction Power And Performance - Dyson again invented technologies to improve suction power, and also maintain full suction while you vacuum. Basically before, the suction power would decrease as your vacuum fills up with dirt. Dyson vacuums are engineered so that they never lose suction power.

Famous for pet hair - With Dyson's constant strong suction power, along with motorized brush bars, these vacuums have made a name for themselves in being the best vacuums for pet hair. My home personally has 3 cats and 2 dogs, so I can testify that my Dyson does a great job in collecting pet hair. In the carpeted areas of our home, pet hair isn't terribly obvious in our floors. But when we vacuum them up with our Dyson, it's surprising to see how much hair was in there! It's a bit more obvious on our smaller rugs. We have one rug in the kitchen, and after even just a day, that thing is covered in our dogs hair. It is literally night and day after we clean it up with our Dyson. The rug looks brand new again every time.

I think the most impressive feature of the Dyson is the Mini Turbine Head, which is basically a motorized brush bar attachment for the telescoping wand. When you attach this to the hose, the motorized attachment starts spinning very strongly, and is perfect for collecting pet hair and dirt off of our couches. And again, you can see just how much pet hair it's pulling off of our furniture.

Automatic Multi-Floor Heights - Another nice feature in most of the newer Dyson models is you're not manually adjusting heights as you go from one floor type to another. They are designed to detect and operate at the right height automatically.

Impressive Model Lineup - Dyson has a wide array of models, which one is sure to match your home's personal needs.

Easy Maintenance - The last point I'll make about the practicality of Dyson vacuums is their "cost of ownership" and easy maintenance. Because they are bag-less vacuums, there are (obviously) no bags to buy and replace. It has a clear dust/dirt bin collector. Once it's full, you simply empty it into the garbage with the flick of a lever.

There are also no filters to replace. Dyson vacuums come with a Lifetime HEPA filter. A few times a year, you simply need to wash, rinse and dry this filter, and your Dyson is ready to go again.

Also, once other comment about their HEPA filter. Practically all Dyson vacuums are certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. This is another article in and of itself, but basically, Dyson vacuums are very allergy friendly, expelling air cleaner than what's in your house. This is a huge consideration if anyone in your home suffers from asthma or allergies. Using a Dyson can actually help clean the air in your home.

What is NOT so practical about the Dyson?

The very non-practical thing about Dyson's is their high price tag. Before I became a Dyson owner, I'm sure I gagged and laughed at the thought of spending $400 - $500 for a vacuum cleaner! But like I said in the beginning, Dyson has built a very reputable and desired brand. And they have the engineering to back it up.

But having said that, I believe Dyson's are out of the budget for many households, and there certainly are other vacuum cleaners that should be considered strongly if price is a major criteria.

But considering the price factor, if you want the best performing vacuum that's easy to handle, Dyson should be at the top of your considerations. And if you have pets that shed, definitely research and consider a Dyson. And if you or anyone suffers from Asthma or allergies, again, Dyson has an edge over its competitors.