vacuuming 101: pick up the canister
August 22nd, 2007
It may at first appear that we have chosen to pick on the wheel this week. We have not. When accurately steered and controlled, certain applications are perfectly acceptable. Taxis, for instance, we enjoy. Buses…not so much.
Other situations must be strictly monitored.
The canister of the Miele Vacuum resides on a set of three 360 degree castor wheels, allowing for excellent stability and maneuverability. This feature frees the user to control the vacuum’s handle with two hands and cover a broad circumference of the floor with ease. The canister moves, but very little.
Because the canister rotates so easily, simply by tugging it with the attached hose, many users are convinced that manufacturers intended them to pull the canister along their trail through the home, so far as the electrical cord will allow them to reach. It is our opinion, but this is simply wrong. It is the type of misconception that will necessitate premature paint jobs or visits from pricey furniture restoration experts.
Controlling the direction of the canister’s movement when pulling it around a tight corner or next to furniture is more difficult than it looks without bumping into walls and other objects. Moreover, the energy required to avoid hitting objects with the canister will distract you from the job at hand. Although the canister is wrapped in black rubber designed to absorb sudden impact, it will leave marks and nicks regardless.
Clean+istry’s simple rule is that the canister should never move on the floor more than 12 to 24 inches at a time, unless you happen to be working on a room of ballroom proportions with no furniture. Beyond that, pick up the canister.
That’s right, pick it up.
The canister incorporates a convenient handle for this very purpose. You’ll find it surprisingly light and that it is quite possible to vacuum close areas by holding the canister with one hand and operating the handle with the other.
Toned biceps may possibly be the most drastic consequence of one’s improved technique.