Review Of Dirt Devil Vacuum Cleaners

When you think of Dirt Devil vacuum cleaners, you probably think of the red-bagged hand vacuum that came out long ago to compete with the Dustbuster from Black & Decker.

If you had one of those Dirt Devils, you probably remember that it was a powerful little vacuum, but there were flaws. The noise was incredible – almost scary because you had to bend over to use it so it was closer to your ears than a normal vacuum.

The second problem with those old Dirt Devils was the projectile particle factor. You’re cleaning your stairs when suddenly you accidentally launch a tiny particle of mud that seems to shoot out with the force of a firecracker!

Luckily, Dirt Devil vacuum cleaner technology has improved a bit.

Dirt Devils now have the traditional handheld vacuums, broom vacs, uprights, and even carpet shampooers and extractors.

Their handhelds and stick vacs perform well in consumer tests and reviews, but their uprights leave a lot to be desired. Many feel they should stick to the handhelds and compact units.

Upright Dirt Devils

Upright Dirt Devil vacuum cleaners are all incredibly noisy. Some consumer groups actually recommend in reviews to wear protective ear muffs or plugs while operating certain models!

Maybe you’ve never considered the noise level of a vacuum cleaner before buying, but you should. Studies show that vacuum cleaners operating above acceptable decibels can actually cause permanent damage with long-term use. They can also cause one heck of a headache! Imagine vacuuming a small room, closet, or bathroom with a machine as loud as a lawnmower. The noise levels on almost all Dirt Devil vacuum cleaners range from annoying to torturous.

Dirt Devil upright models include the Dynamite, Featherlite, Vision, Jaguar, Swivel, and Breeze. With the exception of the Dynamite, the models are almost all rated by both consumers and consumer groups in reviews as good for the price.

They are all, however, generally noisy and better at cleaning bare floors than carpets. Almost all reviewers mention that the prices are inexpensive, and they can often be found on sale. The emission levels (the amount of dust and particles in the exhaust) are very good, but not excellent. The tools are usually awkward, and most of the upright units are not well balanced when using the hose. Some owners have reported missing obvious particles on carpets and blowing particles on bare floors. Almost everyone commented about the noise.

The Dynamite in particular performed horribly in at least two independent tests. A very well known consumer group does not recommend the Dynamite Dirt Devil vacuum cleaner as two out of three of the units they tested actually shot dust out at them! This is a bagless vacuum that apparently has a poor exhaust system.

For those who still hold out hope for Dirt Devil upright vacuum cleaners, there is the newest and most expensive model – the Reaction.

It’s basically a lower-priced copy of a Dyson vacuum cleaner. It uses cyclone technology to keep suction constant, it has a washable filter that never needs to be replaced, and it has a bagless container that empties from the bottom. The emissions were good, but some reported losing suction when using the hose or moving the unit in the attachment position.

The cost is about $170, which is about half the cost of a Dyson vacuum cleaner.

The only drawbacks were noise (of course), that the unit is heavy, and parts seem flimsy. Due to the vacuum being so new, there aren’t really answers to whether it will last for years. Most owners are satisfied with the vacuum for the money. If you have doubts, Dyson has a better overall track record.

Handhelds and Stick Vacuum Cleaners

Dirt Devil handheld vacuum cleaners are really excellent for small jobs, and the interiors of cars.

The model and type you will want depends on the jobs you plan on tackling with your handheld. Dirt Devil makes a wet/dry rechargeable handheld vacuum cleaner that is perfect for spills and quick pick-ups. Rechargeable units work well for small jobs, but don’t really have enough power to handle stairs and upholstery. The Extreme Power Hand Vac was great in tests for rechargeable units and worked especially well for automobile carpet and upholstery, but you should rely on a corded unit for household stairs, upholstery, and mattresses. A good upright or canister vacuum with excellent attachments and a long hose is really more convenient than buying a separate corded unit for stairs, upholstery, and mattresses. You’re more likely to attack these specialty jobs while you are vacuuming instead of putting them off because it’s more work to lug out a second appliance.

The Dirt Devil Broom Vac line does very well in both tests and consumer reviews. It retails for about $50, but can be found cheaper online. It comes in a variety of colors to match your decor as it charges quickly between uses. It does well for quick spills, spot fixes between vacuuming, and kitchen or bath sweeping in preparation for mopping. The noise (of course!) is a little louder than expected, but it does a good job, even in corners.

If you’re going to purchase a Dirt Devil vacuum cleaner, you should stick to handhelds or a Broom Vac. Our reviews suggest you go for a quieter, lighter, more reliable upright.