Kenmore Progressive Upright Vacuum

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 come (9) 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 and come (2) to a package but reduce 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 9 Kenmore Upright Type U Vacuum Bags Microfiltration with Closure

Here is the link for the Kenmore O HEPA Cloth 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

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.

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 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".

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.