Let's talk about vacuums! It seems to be a favorite topic of the diligent homeowner. People ask us all the time, "What is the best vacuum?" The answer is very subjective.
The vacuum we carry on our truck is an Oreck XL, or a Royal for larger commercial spaces. We prefer a bagged commercial vacuum because of the rigors of daily use.
Dyson and Shark seem to have the lion's share of the residential vacuum market in America. Both are great vacuums, as long as you understand a little about their construction and operation. These bagless vacuums ALL have internal filters, usually including a spongy one that has to be kept clean for the vacuum to keep working its best. You want to move as much air through the vacuum as possible, and that only happens when the internal filters are kept clean.
We have the very best Golden Retriever in the world, but her hair and dander clog the filters fast. Ours need cleaning every few times we use the vacuum. This is why we prefer a bagged vacuum on the truck: a brand new bag restores the vacuum's cleaning ability, as long as the brush roll is kept clean and free of hair and other debris.
So should you buy a bagged or a bagless vacuum? That's really the better question. Do you value attachments and onboard tools? You'll probably prefer a bagless vacuum. If you're open to having two vacuums, bagged vacuums might serve you better: one canister vacuum with attachments, and another for the carpet. Keep in mind that a good vacuum with a HEPA filter actually cleans the air and the carpet at the same time. Regular vacuuming is one of the healthiest habits we can all keep in our homes.
Whatever you decide, vacuum often. Really often, even. Some carpet manufacturers recommend vacuuming once a week for every person or pet that lives in your home. That means daily vacuuming in some homes. It may seem like excessive care, but dry soil is abrasive, and it wears your carpet out faster as it gets lived on.