Need a new vacuum cleaner - any recommendations please?

[tessieb]

My vacuum cleaner seems to have given up completely, so I think it's time for a new one. I'm just not sure what to get, and would welcome any advice.

I've currently got a Dyson DC01 which I've had for 11 years. It's been ok, the only complaint is that it's quite heavy when carried up and downstairs.

So, should I get another Dyson, or do you recommend anything else?

Actually, talking about emptying the bag, when I was a student in a shared house we had a bagged cylinder hoover but nobody ever emptied the bag.

Once, we opened the cleaner just to prod the bag to see how full it was -OMG it was rock solid! We still didn't empty it though (we were students after all... )

Now that is impressive....a student that knew what a vacuum cleaner looked like

But the miele has an indicator that shows when the bag is getting full, and is easy enough to look at the bag. Surely is easier to just pull the small bag out, pretty much sealed and chuck and slot the new one in (no bands or anything) than to remove a large plastic cylinder, upturn, have dust go everywhere while upturning and so on?

Just been out and bought myself a brand new shiny Dyson! It's the DC24 and a lighter model - weighs about a third less than my old one. And it has that posh ball technology to make it easier to steer.

Thanks for all the advice. Considered getting a Miele, but like not having a bag to empty. Also, not sure about a cylinder - I guess I'm just used to using an upright one. I was pleased overall with my last Dyson, it was just the weight that I didn't like. Anyway, will let you know how I get on with my much lighter new one.

Think I may have to do some hoovering!!!!!

You will love the ball - takes a couple of trys to get the hang of it but it is FAB once you do.

If you have had a DC01 teh only thing to be aware of is that teh DC24 is the baby version. It is great for storing in a small cubby. BUT the dust canister is tiny - I have to emoty after a full house vacuum - if not before. Also I don't think it has as much suction as it's big brother (the DC25). I know that all the blurb says "as much suction as a full sized one...." but I have a pet hair uphostery wizzy adapter thing to go on my hose (don't use it - got it free). When I enquired as to why it's spin is a bit weak and feeble I was told that it isn't suitable for the DC24 as it doesn't have enough suction...so a bit of contradictory advice there

Miele, I could hoover all day with mine and relish going to my folks who also have one and lots more floor for me to cover. If it were a car it would be an Aston Martin.

Loads of suction settings so you can hoover the lampshades, curtains, rugs, suck grit from between wooden floors etc.

Couldnt recommend it highly enough.

Miele cat and dog!

Recommended on here and DH and I fight over who will vacuum now! It is mega!!

Do NOT get a Dyson Animal DC23 - I have one and it is dreadful. COmplete waste of money.

Roomba

I have just got a henry after owning dysons before, the last dyson I got was specifically for animal hair, but the Henry picks up alot better and quicker too plus less expensive

My DP got so fed up with me borrowing the Henry off his van that he bought me one all of my very own - and I was chuffed.