Kenmore Progressive Upright Vacuum

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Kenmore Progressive Upright Vacuum


Sears happens to have the #1 vacuum on the Consumer Reports list of vacuum cleaners. It is sold as the Kenmore Progressive Upright Vacuum with model numbers 35922 and 35923. Both are the same vacuum, the later has a 5 foot longer cord. Since I have owned my own cleaning and maintenance business for 14 years, I wanted to write about this vacuum and give you a detailed opinion on this vacuum.

This is a bagged vacuum. It beat the likes of Dyson, Kirby, Eureka and Hoover during the most recent Consumer Report testing.

Do You Need Bags, Filters or Parts for your 35922 or 35923 Intelliclean Vacuum? 

A few common items people have questions about...


Perhaps you are running low on bags. This vacuum has (2) kinds of bags. The regular paper bags and the HEPA bags. What is the difference? Paper bags that Kenmore produces come 8 to a package and are a dual ply paper that do a good job of filtering dust, however, in the long run, these bags allow some degree of dust to escape and that will cause your exhaust filter to clog faster. The Kenmore HEPA bags are more expensive (2) to a package but restrict the amount of dust that escapes the exhaust filter, thus keeping your vacuum cleaner longer. HEPA bags are made of cotton, and the weave of fine fabric creates a membrane that traps dirt down to a very small particle.



  • Here is the link for the Kenmore U Paper Bags


  • Here is the link for the Kenmore O HEPA Bags


  • The other thing that I mentioned above is the exhaust filter. This is the filter on the back that is square inside the compartment by the hose. It filters any remaining dust that gets by the bag. In the case of the Progressive, this is very little. You will notice you have to change this filter after it gets dirty, which you will be able to see if you check it periodically.

  • Here is the link for a replacement Exhaust Filter


  • And, if the roller brush on the bottom goes out or if the red brushes get worn, you will need a replacement roller. (The Kenmore Progressive Direct Drive, does have a replacement.)

  • Here is the link to the Progressive Agitator Tube
  • Great Full Featured Vacuum, Here is more about the Progressive 35922 or the 35923 


    Overall, this is a great bagged vacuum. As you will see below, the Kenmore Progressive Upright Vacuum has many features that make this vacuum a workhorse for your home.

    Priced around $275.00-$300.00 depending on current promotions the Kenmore Progressive has features of a vacuum twice the price with more power and performance.

    Direct Drive System- This Vacuum Does Not Have A Belt 


    The Kenmore Progressive has a direct drive system, which is simply a motor inside the roller brush which provides a great amount of power since it does not run off the vacuum motor. The direct drive motor has two settings between carpet or bare floor. A nice option to have when cleaning hard floor, you just push a button and you are ready to clean the floors.

    Push Button Controls- Easy To Use 


    Push button controls make the Kenmore Progressive very easy to use, since you can switch between cleaning carpet and bare floor. You can also adjust the suction control of the hand tools from high, medium and low. You would use these settings if you were vacuuming fabric or delicate drapery.

    There is also a button on the handle for "intelli-clean". This control adjusts the vacuum power from high to low depending on how dirty the carpet is. The light on the front of the machine will blink red, then yellow, to green. Just remember, "when the light turns green, the carpet is clean".

    Full Set Of Attachments-Makes Cleaning Easy 


    For cleaning flexibility, an upright is a good choice if it has enough attachments. The Kenmore Progressive has a complete set of tools to make your cleaning job easier.

  • Adjustable on-board extension wand- Adjusts to the length you desire and locks into place.

  • Handi-Mate tool- A suction powered brush for cleaning upholstery, stairs, auto interiors.

  • 14 inch crevice tool- Great for hard to reach areas.

  • A second 18 inch extension. Attaches alone or in combination with the adjustable extension want for 3 feet of extra reach. Great for high places.
  • Dusting brush w/removable brushes- Good for dusting or remove the brushes for easy cleaning in corners.

  • 12 inch floor brush- Rubberized rollers on this brush make easy work of hard to reach areas under tables, sofas or anyplace you need to dust hard surfaces.
  • Extra Long Hose- Reach Many Places Other Vacuums Can't 


    If you have ever tried to clean the steps in your home with an upright, it usually ends in frustration since the hose on most vacuums is not long enough to reach the top of the steps. The Kenmore Progressive has 14 feet of hose in back. The hose is very good quality, made of flexible rubber that extends to reach many areas with the given attachments.

    The Kenmore also has a true hepa filter. This filter's the exhaust air before entering the room. The hepa filter is easy to clean and replace as needed. As you can see on the photo, it is located in back of the vacuum in between the hose.

    Also, the cord is 30 or 35 feet, depending on the model number. This means you don't have to worry about constantly plugging and unplugging the vacuum as much.

    Easy Access To The Bag 


    Bags are easy to change, there is a door on the front of the Kenmore that opens up for easy access.

    Both standard bags fit as well as hepa bags. The price difference on bags is significant. Hepa bags are about $4.25 each while standard bags are $1.25 each.

    Information on Purchasing-Usually No Waiting If You Live Near A Sears Store 


    If you do consider purchasing the Kenmore Progressive Upright Vacuum when you order via my link at Sears, you can normally pick it up at a Sears location near you. This means you could have the vacuum today! Otherwise, Sears can ship the vacuum directly to you.

    The Kenmore Progressive carries a 1 year warranty that covers manufacturer defects. Additional protection is available for 2-5 years of coverage.

    Why Buy A Bagged Vacuum? 

    In this case, the Kenmore Progressive offers a great deal of POWER since a bagged vacuum has less air leak than bagless vacuums. The other benefit of a bagged vacuum is simple cleanliness. You do not have to worry about keeping a dirt cup clean, or purchasing expensive filters. Yes, a bagged vacuum requires bags, but you can buy a lot of bags before you will come near the price of most filters found on bagless vacuums.

    What Are The Negatives? 


    Weight on this vacuum can be an issue for some people. The Kenmore Progressive weighs around 22 pounds. This is not the heaviest on the market, but is not the lightest either.

    The other negative is the handi-mate tool. You must remember to keep the tool clean or it can stop the brush from turning or break the small belt inside.

    Other than that, overall, this is a great vacuum for the dollar spent.

    Do You Have Questions About The Kenmore Progressive Vacuum 

    Maybe I can help out...

    SewingSally wrote...

    5* Kenmore makes great products don't they? The Kenmore Elite 19005 is a good product too.

    ReplyPosted January 11, 2009

    Margo_Arrowsmith wrote...

    Well, you forgot to mention that the bags are a negative! At least to me! lol

    But great lens I give you 5* and welcome to Squidoo!

    ReplyPosted January 09, 2009

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