What are the pros and cons of traditional bagged vacuums, and what benefits or drawbacks come with bagless models? Which is more practical, and which is better for those sensitive to dust? Is price the deciding factor?
When buying a new vacuum cleaner, one of the most common dilemmas is whether to go for a standard vacuum with replaceable bags or a bagless version. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages.
Pros and Cons of Bagged Vacuums
One of the biggest advantages of bagged vacuums is the convenience and absence of contact with dirt. When the bag is full, you simply remove it from the vacuum and throw it away, avoiding any direct contact with the dirt. Just be careful not to let the dust scatter when disposing of it.
However, one drawback is that you need to continuously buy disposable paper bags. Original bags tend to be more expensive, while cheaper alternatives may be of questionable quality, potentially allowing dust to escape back into the air.
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You can avoid buying disposable bags by using a permanent cloth bag, but emptying it can be a messy task, negating the primary benefit of this vacuum type. Another advantage of bagged vacuums is that you don’t need to replace filters frequently, which saves on costs. Additionally, bagged vacuums are generally a bit cheaper than their bagless counterparts when shopping in larger U.S. retailers.
A downside to bagged vacuums is that it can be hard to tell when the bag needs changing or emptying. A common sign is a noticeable drop in suction when the bag is too full.
Pros and Cons of Bagless Vacuums
Bagless vacuums are often seen as a more economical option since you don’t have to buy disposable bags. However, before purchasing, check if there are any hidden costs associated with the model you’re considering.
Bagless vacuums typically have filters that need occasional replacement, which can sometimes cost more than disposable bags. It’s important to research how often the filter needs replacing and how much it costs.
Some models feature washable filters, eliminating the need to buy new ones but requiring maintenance. Be sure to thoroughly dry all washable components to prevent mold growth inside the vacuum.
One disadvantage of bagless vacuums compared to bagged ones is that emptying the dust container can cause some dirt to scatter, so you need to be cautious. A notable benefit, however, is that if you accidentally vacuum up something you didn’t mean to, it’s easier to retrieve from a dustbin than from a bag, allowing you to continue your cleaning task without interruption.
As previously mentioned, bagless vacuums tend to be slightly more expensive than bagged ones. Still, the price difference isn’t significant, especially with more affordable models.
Photo: Rowenta