HBD: Suck It
July 29 2010
If there’s one thing in life that should suck hard, it’s your vacuum. The harder the better. Nothing beats a clean carpet or spotless hardwood floors. But between the pets, kids and allergies, how can you maintain a toxic-free home while keeping the planet happy? Here’s what you need to know.
Before buying just any vacuum, look for one that’s energy-efficient, but also maintains healthy air quality. You don’t want a motor machine that’s gong to re-circulate toxins back into your home [Cough]. It’s important that your vacuum has great suction for a deep-down clean to limit bacteria and germ growth.
Know HEPA from hype and avoid “hepa type” filters, which can actually be 55 percent lower in efficiency than a true HEPA filter. Look for an authentic HEPA filter – they filter out over 99 percent of airborne bacteria and microscopic spores. In addition to cutting down on allergens, HEPA filters trap flame-retardants, phthalates and toxic pesticides that bind to household dust. HEPA filters can be washed at home and are easily removed from the vacuum unit.
Roughly one in five households purchase a new vacuum cleaner each year. That kinda defeats the purpose, doesn’t it? Make a commitment to a sturdy machine that comes with a long warranty and has a plan for part replacements. It’s always best to repair a broken vacuum cleaner before investing in a new one so you’re not contributing to the landfill glut. You may spend a bit more upfront, but just think of the long-term savings of not having to continuously buy cheap-ass vacuums.
Speaking of, although bagless vacuum cleaners ease up on your trash deposits, emptying compartments can disperse dust and allergens back into the air: Severe allergy sufferers should opt for cleaners with eco-friendly bags.
Don’t get sucked into the amp game: More power does not mean it’s going to clean faster or better. Try to get a vacuum with a low-amp motor (eight amp is ideal) or at least one that offers a power-saving mode.
Drop the weight: There’s no need to buy a vacuum that’s going to require a U-haul to move around.
For more of HBD’s tips on how to clean up your act, visit their Self section.
Do you care about what you’re putting into your mouth and on your body? Would you prefer thighs that don’t touch? Are you a sucker for the environment? Get your daily snack for social change, and take a stand for what you believe in, damnit. From the co-author of New York Times Bestseller, Skinny Bitch, Healthy Bitch Daily is your online lifestyle resource that keeps it real, with fun topics on nutrition, health, fitness, beauty, style and staying eco-chic. Find something new to talk about at the dinner table.
