Vacuuming carpet and rugs is very important to help them last longer and look their best at all times.Heres what to consider when shopping for a vacuum.

Select a type carefully

Upright vacuums do better overall on carpets, though canisters are easier to maneuver, especially on stairs. Bagless vacuums save you the cost of bags, but like bagged models they still require filters. Emptying a bagless vacuum is also a dustier process, a concern if you have asthma or allergies.

Check the features.

Edge-cleaning tools help at corners and baseboards. Suction control protects drapes and a brush on/off switch safeguards bare floors and prevents scattered dust and debris. Most recommended models by consumer reports have all three. Top canisters also have a motor-driven head for better carpet cleaning.

Give it a spin

Even if you order your vacuum online, visit a store first. Push, pull, turn and lift any models youre considering.

you may have the most expensive, fanciest vacuum, but if it is heavy, awkward to use or move around and you do not use it. It is a horrible vacuum. The reality is that the best model for you is the one you will use.