What to Look For

Americans spend at least 90 percent of their time indoors. Frequent vacuuming with a high-suction, low-emissions vacuum cleaner will help maintain air quality and reduce asthma triggering dust and particulate matter. Inefficient vacuums, however, can spew as much dust out of a back vent as they suck up.

High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) Filters

Vacuums with HEPA filters provide a useful tool to help allergy and asthma sufferers manage their symptoms: In addition to cutting down on allergens, HEPA filters trap flame retardants, phthalates and toxic pesticides that bind to household dust.

Type

Uprights are ideal for deep cleaning medium- and deep-pile carpets. The entire unit is pushed during cleaning and uprights generally require attachments for narrow and hard to reach places.

Canisters are ideal for cleaning carpets as well as hard floors, stairs, drapes and upholstery. The head fits under furniture and allows for easier access to hard-to-reach spots, but canister models tend to be less effective on carpet.

Bags or Bagless?

Bagless vacuum cleaners help lighten the load of vacuum bags that go to landfills, but because emptying bagless dust compartments can disperse dust and allergens back into the air, severe allergy sufferers should opt for cleaners with bags.

Shopping Tips

• Avoid "HEPA type" or "high efficiency" filters, which can actually be up to 55 percent lower in efficiency than true HEPAs.

• Buy a sturdy machine: Look for a long (or even lifetime) warranty.

• Consider weight; you should be able to maneuver your vacuum without difficulty.

• Whenever possible, repair broken vacuum cleaners before investing in a new one.

Usage Tips

• Regularly damp-wipe all hard surfaces.

• Wash bedding and curtains in hot water to kill dust mites.

• Use a dehumidifier if mold is a problem.

• Check the air filter of your home's HVAC system every three to four weeks and clean it or replace as necessary.