How to choose the right washing machine vacuum cleaner for an apartment, TOP of the best models
A vacuum cleaner is an irreplaceable tool that greatly simplifies cleaning the apartment. Older models were only used to clean debris from floors and carpets. However, there are products today that can wash floor surfaces. To buy a high-quality dust collector, you need to know how to choose a washing machine vacuum cleaner for an apartment.
Characteristics and principle of operation
The washing machine vacuum belongs to a relatively new type of technology that is just beginning to gain popularity.Today, many housewives carry out wet cleaning in the apartment with their help. At the same time, they do not need to use buckets or mops, since such a vacuum cleaner is able to clean the floors from any dirt.
Many people are interested in how such a device works. The principle of operation of most models is the same and does not have major differences. Containers are installed inside the structure, which are filled with liquid. The device pumps water from the first tank and projects it onto the surface to be treated. The dirty water is then sucked up and transferred to a second container.
To spray liquid, a special capillary tube is used, which is installed on the main handle. During the spraying process, any dust particles that have interacted with the liquid become heavy and are sucked up by the dust collector. Thanks to this, the air in the apartment becomes much cleaner.
Features that set scrubber models apart from other dust collectors include their component parts. The design of the devices includes the following elements:
- Bag for cleaning dust particles. This is a special container that is used to store the collected dust. It is recommended to clean it regularly so that the vacuum cleaner sucks up debris better.
- Cyclonic vial. Fits most cleaning dust bags. The bulb is made of high-strength glass or plastic and therefore does not break even after strong blows. During operation, a centrifugal force is generated inside the cyclone tank, due to which all collected debris is compressed.
- Filter container. This is an effective filtration method used in most vacuum cleaners.When dust particles get inside the container, they are soaked in the liquid and settle. This prevents dust from entering the air of the vacuum cleaner.
What coatings are suitable for
There are several types of flooring that a wash-type vacuum cleaner is suitable for:
- Linoleum. In most apartments, the floor surface is covered with commercial linoleum. It is a dense material with a perfectly flat surface that is easy to clean from dust and other debris. For thorough cleaning of linoleum, it is enough to vacuum it 1-2 times.
- Polyvinyl chloride. The floor surface of their PVC is not as easy to clean as linoleum. It is more difficult to clean a floor of such material, since such a coating is embossed. To clean all the dust, you will need to vacuum it at least twice.
- Cork surfaces. Popular cork flooring. There are no irregularities on their surface and therefore the cork floor is easy to clean using modern models of vacuum cleaners.
- Laminate. It is a panel covering made of fiberboard and thick paper. On the surface of the laminate there is a relief film that protects the panels from moisture. To clean laminate floors, use dusters with a special brush.
- Ceramic tiles. Most often, this material is used to cover the floors in the kitchen or bathroom. The advantages of ceramic tiles include their resistance to moisture. Vacuuming these floors is very easy as they have a smooth surface.
- The rugs. Carpets are considered the most readily available and are therefore popular. They can be cleaned with dust collectors, but for this you will need to use powerful models capable of removing debris from the pile.
- Parquet.Classic flooring types include parquet planks. It is made of high resistance wood, treated with special compounds to protect it from humidity. The surface of the parquet board is embossed. Therefore, when cleaning, vacuum cleaners with a brush are used.
- Polymer. Self-leveling floors are made from polymer materials, which are used in both industrial and residential premises. It is a moisture-resistant and perfectly smooth floor that is suitable for all vacuum cleaners.
Advantages and disadvantages
Before using washing dusters, you should familiarize yourself with their main advantages and disadvantages. Among the advantages of wet vacuum cleaners are the following:
- Easy to remove dirt from floor coverings. To clean dirty furniture or floors, simply fill the water tank, turn on the machine and mop the dirty floor.
- Versatility. Such models are much more functional than conventional dust collectors, which can only be used for dry cleaning. Washing machines help clean stubborn stains and remove liquid spilled on the floor. Some housewives use them to clean large mirrors or windows in an apartment.
- Air filtration. Experts advise using such devices for people with asthma or allergies. When using dust collectors for wet cleaning, the air is completely cleaned of dust.
- The ability to clean vertical surfaces that become dusty over time.
However, washing models have a number of disadvantages that you should familiarize yourself with before buying and using such a vacuum cleaner:
- Improper cleaning of thick pile carpets. Some people have thick pile carpets in their homes. Powerful models that suck air well can remove debris from these surfaces.
- Regular cleaning of the device. After each wet cleaning, all containers and brushes should be cleaned and rinsed of remaining debris. On average, it takes 20-25 minutes to clean the dust bin.
- Bulky. Most cleaning vacuums are large, which makes it difficult to store them in small apartments or houses.
- Price. Devices for wet cleaning are much more expensive than conventional models.
- Electricity consumption. Cleaners consume significantly more electricity than other types of vacuum cleaners.
How to choose the right one
People looking for a quality floor cleaner should familiarize themselves with the basic selection criteria.
Power selection - consumed and suction
The main factor to consider when choosing a vacuum cleaner is power. Some people mistakenly think that attention should be paid to the power consumption of equipment, but this is not the case.
When choosing, the air suction power is taken into account, since it depends on the ability of the device to collect debris from the surface.
The suction power varies from 250 to 555 W. Many models have a power of 300 to 350 watts. That's enough to clean hardwood floors, linoleum and small, short-pile rugs. To clean carpets from wool and large debris, you will need to select devices with a power of at least 400 watts.
Filtration system
The best models are equipped with high-quality filtration systems, and therefore, when buying a washing machine, pay attention to the installed filters.Experts advise buying devices in which special additional filter systems are installed for optimal air purification.
There are four types of filters that are often installed in dust collectors:
- Class C filters. Quality filtration systems capable of filtering 100% of dust particles.
- HEPA. Filters more than 95% of dust.
- H13. In terms of efficiency, it does not differ from HEPA filter systems.
- H12. The least efficient filters that filter 88-90% of dust.
Nozzles
Additional accessories are sold with the vacuum cleaners:
- For upholstered furniture. These are special brushes that allow you to clean the surface of sofas, armchairs and other upholstered furniture from debris and dirt.
- For glasses. If the dust collector is to be used for cleaning glass surfaces, it is necessary to choose models equipped with accessories for washing glass.
- For dry cleaning. Dry cleaning in the apartment should be carried out using special accessories. They must have a mode of operation with carpeted surfaces.
Additional Features
Experts recommend buying multi-function vacuum cleaners with additional functionality. The most important additional function of a vacuum cleaner is drying. Such models are able to dry a wet surface after wet cleaning.
Noise level
The noise of a vacuum cleaner is one of the characteristics that must be taken into account when choosing a device. There are no completely silent models, but that does not mean that you should buy models that make a lot of noise during operation.
Loudly operating devices have a negative effect on people's well-being and lead to the development of stress.Experts say that the value of the maximum acceptable noise level is 70-80 dB. Therefore, it is recommended to choose devices whose noise level does not exceed these indicators. Manufacturers that produce quiet vacuum cleaners include:
- Phillips;
- Honey;
- Bosch;
- Electrolux.
Tank capacity
The most important part of a vacuum's design is its tank. When choosing a device, one must take into account the volume of the tank intended for storing the liquid. The size of the container directly depends on the number of rooms in the apartment. For example, if you often have to clean a two-room apartment, choose models with a 2-3 liter tank. For large living quarters, this is not enough, and therefore devices are chosen with a tank volume of at least four liters.
For two-story houses, expensive and bulky vacuum cleaners are chosen, equipped with tanks of about 7-8 liters. This tank is enough to clean 2-3 times.
Weights and dimensions
The dimensions and weight of the structure are factors that must be taken into account when choosing a vacuum cleaner. The dimensions depend on the device type. Dust collectors can be vertical or horizontal. Upright models are common, as they are used to pick up litter from the ground surface. Such devices are bulky and heavy.
People interested in compact cleaning devices should choose upright vacuums. They are lightweight and compact. Most often they are used to clean upholstered furniture or car interiors.
Ease of maintenance
Every vacuum cleaner needs maintenance. It is necessary to purchase models that are easy to disassemble and wash.To determine how easy it is to maintain a dust bag, you need to pay attention to the location of its components.They should be placed next to each other and can be easily removed. Therefore, before buying, you should try to disassemble the vacuum cleaner.
If difficulties arise in the analysis process, it is better to find another model to buy.
The easiest way is to disassemble models that use tank-in-tank technology. In the lower part of these structures there is a tank, inside which a container for dirty water is installed.
Varieties of models
There are several varieties of vacuum cleaners, the characteristics of which should be understood before buying.
Removable cassette tank
Some types of dust collectors are equipped with removable containers. These models are easy to maintain, as a person can remove and clean the tank at any time convenient to him. To do this, simply loosen several latches and remove the container. Then it is washed under running water, dried and put in place.
The only significant drawback of a removable cartridge is that the latches sometimes break and the tank cannot be reinstalled.
Vertical Tank Layout
Some people find vertical tank designs to be convenient to use, but this is not the case. It is difficult to take care of such vacuum cleaners, because each time you disassemble it, you will have to remove the tank, which is at the top. For example, to empty the dirty water from the lower tank, you will first need to open the lid, disconnect the upper tank and only then empty the water from the lower tank.
It is much more convenient to use models arranged according to the principle of matryoshka dolls, since they have a small tank built into a large one.
Recovery tank
People who don't want to waste time regularly cleaning tanks and changing water can buy a vacuum with a built-in recovery tank. A feature of such models is that the dirty liquid passes through the filtration system and, in a purified form, enters the tank again. Therefore, it is not necessary to regularly change dirty water into clean water.
However, vacuums with such canisters often have clogged filters. They should be periodically cleaned of debris and rinsed with clean water.
Cordless robot vacuum cleaner
Nowadays, fully automated types of vacuum cleaners are gaining popularity, which remove waste without human assistance. We are talking about wireless robotic vacuum cleaners that can wet an apartment. Before using such robots, a person manually sets a cleaning schedule and sets the required operating time.
The disadvantages of robotic vacuum cleaners include their weak air suction force, due to which large debris is poorly collected on plush surfaces.
One-in-one tanks
Some models of backwash dust collectors have tanks that are installed one at a time. This is the most convenient location for containers, as it is easy to change the water in them. To change the dirty liquid and rinse the tank, just open the top cover and take out the tank, inside which there is a second tank. It will take about 5-7 minutes to change the water.
Electronic or mechanical control unit
Vacuum cleaner models can differ in how they are used. Two types of control are most often used:
- Mechanical. If the device is equipped with a mechanical block, the power regulators are installed on the surface of the structure. They represent a small slider or rotor.It is impractical to use models with mechanical control, since you have to constantly bend over to adjust the working power.
- Electronic. It is more convenient to use models with an electronic type of control. The power regulator is installed on the handle or the body.
Portable
The most compact are considered models of portable vacuum cleaners that work with built-in rechargeable batteries. They are rarely used to pick up debris from the surface of the floor. Many people use them to clean the upholstery of sofas or armchairs. To clean cars and windows, portable car and window dust collectors are produced.
Difference from the usual
People who are considering buying a new vacuum cleaner are interested in the differences between washing models and conventional models.
Conventional devices are used for dry cleaning in an apartment. With their help, you can clean a dirty surface from dirt, dust and small debris. Some models are equipped with separate tanks to collect the liquid. However, dry cleaners do a poor job of cleaning clumps and carpets. Even more powerful models cannot remove dirt from the pile. It is better to use washing machines to work with such coatings. Unlike simple vacuum cleaners, they can remove dirt and dust from lint.
Useful tips
To buy the highest quality and most efficient dust collector, you should familiarize yourself with useful tips for choosing:
- it is necessary to purchase devices equipped with a reusable textile bag to collect dust;
- you should not choose a model whose noise level exceeds 80 dB;
- when buying, you should check that additional accessories are included with the dust collector to work with different coatings;
- the suction power of the selected device should not be less than 250-300 W.
Rating of popular models
There are seven popular types of vacuum cleaners, the distinctive features of which should be determined in advance.
Parquet Thomas Multiclean X10
The Thomas Multiclean X10 Parquet device is considered a popular budget model of dust collectors. This device reads many functions that help to effectively clean the apartment. The design is equipped with an additional water filter, responsible for air purification. Thomas Multiclean X10 Parquet is able to urgently pump dirty water and purify it through a special filter.
Additional accessories are sold with the device, which are useful when working with parquet and tiles.
Philips FC 6404
This device is considered multifunctional, since it can not only wash, but also clean and dry the coating. Philips FC 6404 is compatible with all floor coverings. It is often used to vacuum hardwood, vinyl, and even laminate flooring. After using Philips FC 6404, there are no wet spots left on the floor, since during operation an air flow is created that dries out the moisture.
The advantages of this model include:
- Versatility;
- a five-liter tank of water, which is enough to clean a room of 50 square meters;
- integrated water filtration.
Krausen ECO Plus
The widest range of nozzles allows you to use the Krausen ECO Plus to clean floors, large windows, mirrors and furniture.Among the features of the model are rotating brushes, which are used for high-quality cleaning of carpets. This model combines an air freshener, a mop and a regular vacuum cleaner.
The disadvantages of this device include cost, high power consumption and poor air intake.
Vax 6150SX
Vacuum cleaners from Vax are especially popular, because it was this company that released the first washing model in 1982. Today, the Vax 6150 SX is considered the best device of this company. It is suitable for working on soft upholstery, carpets, mattresses and all floor coverings. The main advantage of the dust collector is considered to be the suction power of the air and its low cost.
Among the disadvantages, it is worth highlighting:
- lack of handle and inability to control fluid supply;
- dimensions that do not allow the appliance to be stored in an isolated place.
Zelmer ZVC762SP
A versatile and multifunctional device that quickly disposes of waste and gets rid of dust. The Zelmer ZVC762SP is the perfect choice for wet or dry cleaning in a small apartment. The advantages of the vacuum cleaner are its ease of use, compactness and quiet operation. The manufacturer guarantees the performance of this model for four years.
The device is sold with accessories to clean parquet floors, carpets, upholstered furniture and even decorative stone.
Karcher Puzzi 8/1
This is a wet household vacuum cleaner that can handle hard surfaces and textile floors. When cleaning carpet pile, experts recommend using Karcher Puzzi 8/1. The spray system installed in this vacuum cleaner allows the liquid to penetrate deep into the pile and remove all the dirt from it.
The body of the device is made of durable and reliable plastic, which does not break even with strong blows. The warranty period for this model is five years.
Arnica Hydra Rain Plus
Arnica Hydra Rain Plus can be considered the best vacuum cleaner from Turkish manufacturers. The suction power of this model makes it possible to collect the smallest dust particles from the surface. The device is equipped with filtration systems, thanks to which the air in the room becomes fresh and cleaner. Among the main capabilities of the device are:
- blow air;
- collection of spilled water;
- wet and dry cleaning.
Top robot vacuum cleaners
People who want to buy a wet robot vacuum cleaner should check out the ranking of the best models.
iClebo Arte
This cleaning robot differs from other models by its excellent spatial orientation. It easily recognizes obstacles in its path and avoids them on its own. Therefore, such a vacuum cleaner is suitable for cleaning rooms with a lot of furniture. The height of the device is only 10 centimeters, which allows it to pick up debris and dust under sofas, armchairs and other furniture. Battery charge is sufficient for three hours of continuous operation.
Irobot Scooba 450
This is a high quality vacuum cleaner that can remove even dry and stubborn stains from the surface. This vacuum cleaner rarely encounters obstacles and deftly bypasses them. However, if it collides with something, just give it a beep and it will circle around.
The Irobot Scooba 450 is equipped with a small 1 liter water tank, which is enough to wash an area of thirty square meters. The built-in battery is discharged after two hours of active use of the device.
Hobot Legee 668
A functional robot vacuum cleaner that can work autonomously without a network connection.The software of the device allows you to configure it so that it turns on independently and performs cleaning at a set time. The device effectively cleans the surface of debris, dirt and dust. The only problem that owners of Hobot Legee 668 often face is the difficulty of moving around rooms with a lot of furniture.
Xiaomi Roborock Sweep One
Xiaomi Roborock Sweep One stands out from other robotic vacuum cleaners with an elegant design. The design is equipped with improved brushes that reliably clean debris from fluffy surfaces. The dimensions of the vacuum allow it to capture a large area of coverage when cleaning. The Xiaomi Roborock Sweep One barely bumps into obstacles thanks to its 13 sensors.
The suction power of this model is not very great, so you will have to vacuum several times.
iBoto Aqua V715B
This model is equipped with several cubic beacons that emit infrared signals. Thanks to this, the vacuum cleaner receives a map of the room and recognizes obstacles. The battery life is 3 hours, it will then be necessary to recharge the device.
Comments
Antonina, 43 years old: “I am the proud owner of a three-room apartment in which I often have to clean. At first I used a regular vacuum cleaner, but then I decided to replace it with a washing machine and I was satisfied. Thanks to the humidity clean the dust in the apartment much smaller, and it doesn't appear as often as before.
Sergei, 34: “My wife complained for a long time that she was tired of manually vacuuming the apartment and asked her to buy her a robot vacuum cleaner. I doubted and postponed this purchase for a long time, but before the winter holidays I made up my mind and bought it. Now I regret not having done so sooner.Now we hardly think about cleaning with my wife anymore, because this device does everything on its own. The main thing is to adjust it correctly and recharge it regularly."
Conclusion
Everyone has to clean the apartment. Vacuum cleaners are often used during cleaning.To purchase a reliable and high-quality dust collector, you should familiarize yourself with the criteria for selecting such equipment and popular models.