Vacuum Cleaners
Shopping and Usage Tips
Shopping Tips
Ultra Low Penetrating Air (ULPA) filters supposedly do an even
more thorough job, trapping 99.999% of airborne particles down to 0.12
micron. However, they are expensive and hard to find, and for those
without severe allergies or asthma, other options may work just as well.
Some vacuum cleaners are better for carpets, while others are
ideal for upholstery. Look for a model that best suits the type of
cleaning you will most frequently use it for.
Choose a vacuum with a long (or even lifetime) warranty, to
avoid buying a junker that will be landfilled after only a few years of
use. And if your vacuum breaks, don't throw it out. Instead, call the
manufacturer to order new parts or be referred to a local repairman. If
you're simply upgrading to a newer machine, donate your old vacuum to a
local charity thrift store.
Whenever possible, repair broken vacuum cleaners before
investing in a new one.
Home Maintenance: The Best Way to Clean
Vacuuming is only a partial solution to ridding a home of allergens. If
allergies are an issue, take the following extra steps to reduce indoor
air pollution:
-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. Dirty air filters are a
primary source of dust and allergens entering the home.
-If you're a serious allergy or asthma sufferer, consider replacing your carpets with hardwood flooring and
decorate them with washable, natural-fiber area rugs.
