I think others who have responded to this thread have provided excellent advice, especially regarding things to watch out for. But if it pleases you and will enhance your existence in some way, then $10 is a small price to pay. Otherwise, it may be better to pass it by. Truth be told, I can count up more instances of regret over buying a vacuum than not buying one. I've made more than one impulse purchase and later asked myself why the hell I actually thought that was a good idea. I donated a couple of those 'mistakes' to my church's rummage sale a couple of years ago, and I subsequently imposed a moratorium on any further 'vacquisitions'. Extreme? Perhaps. But it's been over a year since I've bought one and I accept that I've got plenty of 'toys' I can play with.