Dyson Animal DC17 All Floor Vacuum Review

I actually debated for years whether I was going to spend so much money on a Dyson vacuum cleaner. I looked at them, read reviews, did research - then when I would finally decided to get one I would talk myself out of it at the last minute and the whole process would start over again several months later. Not only was spending the money a problem but it seemed like there were several models to pick from and I had no idea which one was best for me.

I finally decided on the Dyson DC17 because it had all the accessories that I thought I needed. All of the Dysons come with three standard accessories including  the stair tool, a large brush and the crevice tool. The Animal models come with additional items which are the mini turbine tool, a floor tool and a carpet cleaning kit. Because I have several pets I figured the mini turbine tool would be very handy for the couch and other furniture. All the dysons feature the following:

• Constant Suction:  Unlike other vacuums the Root Cyclone technology does not loose suction.
• Life Time HEPA Filter: Never needs to be replaced.
• Five Year Warranty:  All Dysons come with a five year warranty backed by Dyson.
• Approved for Allergy Sufferers:  The Allergy Foundation has approved Dyson Vacuums use for allergy sufferers.
• No Extra Costs:  No bags to buy and all belts and filters have a lifetime warranty.
• Clear Bin:  You can see what you pick up and it is quick and easy to empty.

When I got my Dyson I was like a kid on Christmas morning! I couldn't open the box fast enough. I actually laughed at myself for getting so excited over a vacuum cleaner. Once it was out of the box I tried to get everything put together and was I slightly frustrated due to the lack of instructions. While there are only 2-3 pieces that you actually have to assemble together the instructions consist of pictures and nothing else. It wasn't hard to figure out but after spending over over 450 bucks some wording to go along with the instructions couldn't hurt.

Once everything was together I plugged it in and before I even moved the Dyson across the carpet I saw fine white power filling into the container. Seriously! I didn't even move the thing and it was pulling up dirt or powder or something out of my carpet! After moving through the living room and bedroom I was really surprised at what the Dyson was picking up. I am a clean freak and would vacuum at least once a week with my old cleaner so I couldn't believe what the old cleaner had been leaving.

The attachments have all come in handy and work well. The mini turbine works wonders on the couch, chairs and other furniture. The large brush and stair tools make getting under furniture and chairs a breeze. The handle/extender hose has huge suction power but you can't move very far away from the vacuum because of the stiffness - but all in all, all of the extras are great.

The hepa filter never has to be replaced but you do need to occasionally clean it, which is easy to do. The bagless canister holds plenty of dirt and is a breeze to empty out. You just press the release button and the bottom of the canister opens up dumping everything out. I always empty the canister outside, otherwise I end up with dust coming out of the bag I am dumping into, which kind of defeats the whole purpose of having a Hepa filter.  I do wish the canister would open from the top allowing you to tip everything out instead of it just forcefully dropping out - but most canister vacuums I have seen use the same method. 

Overall I have no regrets spending the money on the Dyson. Trust me, if you want clean carpets the Dyson is the way to go!