No space for dirt

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As a millennial inching toward my mid-30s, I’ve watched lifestyle, leisure, and tech evolve – sometimes at a speed that makes you blink and wonder when vacuums became so high-tech.

Priorities shift as we age, and suddenly, that trusty smartphone isn’t the only gadget catching your eye. Welcome to adulthood, where even vacuum cleaners are worth talking about.

Let’s be honest – there’s no shame in admitting the vacuum has been quietly nagging at the back of your mind. We’ve all thought, “I should really get a proper one… someday.”

While many Bruneians are happy with the traditional bulky models (you know, the ones with the hose in one hand and a mini R2D2 in the other), it might be time to dream a little bigger.

The future of cleaning is here and it’s more exciting than ever.

If “someday I’ll buy a decent vacuum” has been part of your daily affirmations, now’s the time to explore the options.

Vacuum cleaners have evolved, and the days of one-size-fits-all models are over. The market is brimming with options, each offering features that make you wonder if vacuuming could actually be… fun?

From sleek robotic vacuums that glide around like something out of a sci-fi movie to cordless models that free you from the hassle of tangled cables, there’s a perfect fit for everyone – and every spine.

Let’s take a quick look at what’s out there and see which one might just earn a place in your home.

PHOTO: ENVATO
PHOTO: ENVATO
PHOTO: ENVATO
PHOTO: ENVATO
PHOTO: ENVATO

CANISTER VACUUMS

Commonly found in many Bruneian households, these vacuums, while bulky, are ideal for multitaskers as they offer greater flexibility.

With a separate motor and vacuum head, they are perfect for reaching under furniture and tackling those annoying corners that seem to collect dust like it’s their full-time job.

Pros:

• Great for hard floors, stairs, and furniture.
• Quieter than upright models.
• More versatile with various attachments.
• Can be more affordable depending on size and power.

Cons:
• A bit cumbersome to drag around.
• Storage can be tricky as the motor and hose take up more space.

If you have a mix of flooring and want a versatile vacuum that can handle it all, a canister vacuum could be your best bet.

STICK VACUUMS

Stick vacuums are the modern darling of the cleaning world. Lightweight, cordless, and sleek, they’re ideal for quick clean-ups and small spaces. If you’ve ever watched a vacuum commercial and thought, “That looks fun,” you were probably looking at one of these.

Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre.
• Cordless models are incredibly convenient.
• Perfect for small homes or apartments.

Cons:
• Less powerful than upright or canister vacuums.
• Smaller dustbins, so more frequent emptying.
• Battery life can be an issue with cordless models, leading to “half a room” clean-ups.

For those who prefer quick bursts of cleaning over full-on deep cleans, the stick vacuum might be your new best friend.

ROBOTIC VACUUMS

Robotic vacuums have revolutionised the chore of tidying up by taking it off your to-do list entirely. Equipped with smart mapping technology, these nifty gadgets can navigate your space with ease, roaming around while you kick back and relax.

Some models even feature self-emptying bins, so you can enjoy your downtime without worrying about emptying the dust container.

However, a word of caution – if your home is filled with nooks and crannies, these little robots might just find themselves lost for days (or even weeks!). This is a common complaint among users, so it’s worth considering the layout of your space.

Pros:

• Hands-free cleaning.
• Excellent for daily maintenance, particularly for pet hair.
• Many models are self-charging and can operate autonomously.

Cons:

• Can struggle with cluttered spaces or tight areas.
• Expensive and may require regular maintenance.

For gadget lovers seeking convenience, a robotic vacuum could be the ideal solution for keeping your space tidy with minimal effort.

HANDHELD VACUUMS

Small but mighty, these are perfect for quick clean-ups, especially if you have pets or kids. While they won’t replace a full-sized vacuum, they’re brilliant for those smaller messes.

Pros:

• Compact and portable.
• Great for cleaning cars, furniture, and spot messes.
• Affordable.

Cons:

• Limited suction power and capacity.
• Not suitable for whole-home cleaning.

If you need something quick and easy for life’s little spills, a handheld vacuum is your trusty sidekick.

ENTIRELY UP TO YOU

I’ve personally chosen a cordless stick vacuum with a detachable motor that cleverly transforms into a handheld device. This is just a gentle nudge to remind you that in the world of modern vacuums, crossover features are not just a gimmick – they’re brilliant!

Ultimately, selecting the right vacuum cleaner boils down to your lifestyle and cleaning habits.

Are you a weekend warrior, ready to battle the dust bunnies in an epic deep-cleaning session, or do you prefer the swift finesse of a quick tidy-up?

Whichever path you choose, now is the ideal time to treat yourself to that “proper” vacuum you’ve been postponing. Trust me – it’s a luxury you’ll appreciate every time you see those clean floors! – Wardi Wasil