Corded or Cordless

• If you are buying a stick vacuum, the first thing to do is identify your reasons for doing so. If you already have a vacuum cleaner complete with tools and extension wands, you will use your stick vacuum for quick cleanups when you don't want to bring out the heavier machine. In this case, a cordless stick vacuum will prove very convenient. You don't have to plug it in. All you have to do is ensure it is charged at all times. As soon as you notice some crumbs on the floor, you simply bring it out, clean them up and put it away without worrying about plugs and cables. If you are purchasing a stick vacuum as the main cleaner for an apartment or small house where storage space is at a premium, a corded cleaner will allow you to vacuum for as long as you want without worrying about the amount of charge in a battery.
  
  

Quick Cleanups

• When you are buying a stick vacuum as a second cleaner, you may think one that efficiently lifts crumbs and debris off carpets and hard flooring is all you need. However, a number of rechargeable stick vacuums also convert to hand-vacs, which gives them added versatility for quick cleanups. If you're using the stick vacuum to clean up crumbs and debris in your living room, you may notice some on chairs and sofas as well. If it converts easily to a hand-vac, these can be quickly removed.
  
  

Main Vacuum Cleaner

• If you are purchasing a corded stick vacuum as the sole cleaner for an apartment or small dwelling, look for one that can be used for a variety of cleaning jobs. Some stick vacuums not only convert to hand-vacs but also have several attachments and extension wands for reaching higher surfaces, which means you can use them to dust picture frames and the join between the ceiling and the wall. The the tools should include a crevice nozzle as this cleaning narrow gaps that are too big for the main cleaning head easier.
  
  

Floor Cleaning Head

• Whether you are buying a corded or cordless stick vacuum, ensure the floor cleaning head is suitable for your flooring. When you have both hard flooring and carpets, see that it can tackle both these surfaces. Some stick vacuums even have a brushroll for use on carpets.
  
  If you have good quality hardwood flooring, ensure the hard flooring setting is of sufficient quality to guard against scratching the surface.