Kenmore 23612 Progressive PowerMate Bagged Canister Vacuum

Pros: Great suction. Convenient on-board tool storage. Long cord and hose.
Cons: Family members always want to borrow it!

I am on my second Kenmore Progressive and I can't say enough good things about them. I use my vacuum everyday in a house that almost always has some kind of construction going on. I use it almost as a shop vac. I've sucked up sawdust, nails, screws, ...

Pros: Sturdy, great suction, easy to maneuver, long lasting
Cons: First rear wheels only lasted 10 years, but were easy to replace.

I have had mine now for about 15 years. The wheels eventually wore out after about 10 years, so I ordered replacements from Sears, and it's like new...well not exactly, but works like it always has. This can suck up anything - unlike uprights I have owned in the past. The tools are handy, stored in the top of the base, and bag changing is easy. I had never owned a canister vacuum before, but now I'll never own an upright again. When you vacuum everyday due to kids/pets/etc, it really pays to have a vacuum that isn't going to make you pull a muscle maneuvering it around. This one has a swivel front wheel and two fixed rear wheels, the switch on the pipe is conveniently located, and it is easy to get around furnishings.
Having stood up to daily use for 15 years, I'd say this is an uncommon piece of machinery among other lesser-made vacuums which often don't last more than a few years. I would replace it - if I ever have to - with another Kenmore canister.

Pros: easy to use, attachments enclosed, serious suction, reasonably priced
Cons: none so far

The suction power alone should sell this vacuum. After years and years of having uprights, I finally went back to a canister. I am now wondering what took me so long. My oriental rugs are cleaner than they have been for years. This definitely gives a bang for the buck. It will give you the incentive to clean the whole house because it does the job the first time.