Craftsman wet/dry vacuum
Considered a “best buy,” this vacuum holds up to 14 gallons but “weighs less” than most large models. Price: $110. Contact: Sears.com
Source: Consumer Reports
Kruz Stick Vac
This lightweight, “easy to maneuver” model from Dirt Devil is recommended by the Good Housekeeping Research Institute. The vacuum cleans “forward and backward or side to side” and glides over surfaces to protect floors. Price: $99. Contact: Dirtdevil.com
Source: The Salt Lake Tribune
Roomba
This technological masterpiece has revolutionized housekeeping. The tiny robot does the “vacuuming for you,” using contact bumpers to detect furniture. Not known for deep cleaning, the Roomba is best used on hard floors. Price: $250. Contact: Irobot.com
Source: The Calgary Herald
Dyson Slim
The British design wins the “Vacuuming Is Fun award.” It may look like a “Star Wars reject,” but it moves likes a “wildebeest galumphing across the Serengeti.” Price: $470. Contact: Dyson.com
Source: The New York Times