When my vacuum finally gave up the ghost with a sound like a thousand marbles caught in an argument with a food processor, I found myself in a quandary. I needed a vacuum. I needed a vacuum NOW. I had company coming over in 24 hours and my wife was adamant about having the carpet vacuumed with an allergen filtration system due to one of the arrivals having severe allergies to cats (of which we have three). I did not think that I would be able to find a vacuum that met her exacting specifications that evening, but I have to admit that the Dirt Devil Featherlite Bagged Upright (M085590RED) saved the day.

The Dirt Devil Featherlite Bagged Upright not only has a 12-amp motor that picks up everything (and I do mean everything) that it comes in contact with, but its allergen filtration system traps 99% of the dust and allergens in most homes' carpets and does not, unlike some other vacuum brands, leave a white residue on the outside of the machine. It has automatic height adjustment so that it can be used on hardwood or carpet without having to remember to change the roller height, an onboard stretch hose and snap-on attachments that allow the cleaning of everything from draperies to those deep dark spaces under the beds - which aren't so very dark when that amazingly bright headlight turns on. The Featherlite Upright also has a 25-ft. cord that allows us to vacuum the entire living room in one go without having to shift outlets.

Weighing in at just under twelve pounds, the Dirt Devil Featherlite Bagged Upright is a snap to carry up and down stairs, although if someone is not very tall, like my wife, it can prove to be a bit bulky to carry. It is also a tad bit top-heavy, with all the attachments being at the top and if not stored properly, it has a tendency to tip over, which it did, on one of the cats, who now avoids even the deactivated vacuum like the plague. The placement of the foot-activated "on" switch is a bit awkward and is easily confused with the adjustment foot operated switch, wish is actually more visible. The strength of the motor can also be problem, tugging itself out of control if you don't keep a firm grip on the handle.

All in all, the Dirt Devil Featherlite Bagged Upright is an excellent machine for the price (only $69.99 through the manufacturer) and has, so far, lived up to the Dirt Devil reputation for excellence in vacuums.