I'm currently researching Dyson vacuums in order to take the plunge. Costco has this one - the DC17 Total Clean for $399 - which seem like it would work. I can't seem to figure out which one would be best for us, though. We have all hardwood or hard floors and furniture that gets covered in hair of various species. Any recommendations? Does the DC17 look like a good choice? Why are there so many MODELS????????

I have a Dyson "car" model. I think it primarily has to do with what kind of attachments come with the machine. Mine has a mini attachment with a spinning brush that attaches to the extension wand. I know they make a "pet" model as well, but am not sure what is unique about it.

No matter which model you get, it'll suck.



....had to say it.

Well, for ease of movement, I do love using the Dyson Ball. The only thing is seems funky about is pulling the vacuum backwards, it moves, but does not seem to like it so well, this on my short area rugs. Frankly, I do not think you can go wrong with any Dyson model, the noise is louder when I do the hardwood, but, the amount of crud it pulls up is just astounding. I love it!

We have the Dyson Animal.

It's a good vacuum except it's not true there are no filters. It actually does have an interior filter that needs changing every once in a while. It's in a place where only a vacuum repair guy can get to (in the central part of the machine, pried open with a screw driver). The job (inc. filter) costs $60 here.

Is it a vacuum or a sex toy?

I suppose you could ask the same thing about Snowflakes post -

Ease of movement is important. However, it may not be of much use to her if it doesn't like short area rugs.

Target often sells Dyson's with a decent sized Target gift card as a "rebate".

You might want to check their prices for comparison.

As for the models, I think that they all "suck" just as well as each other, and the difference really comes from the attachments. Decide what attachments you really need (for example do you really need a stair attachment?).

Well, I tested it out today, pulling backward, I did not have the wheels fully retracted, hence my problem. So I retract my previoous caveat. As for the filter, there is one, easy to get to and it will need replacing eventually. You can pull it out and rinse it, it's in the instructions.

Hmm... who is lying?