Drive the Success of Your Home Cleaning Business

Backpack Vacuums: Do They Work For Home Cleaning Businesses? 

I'm sure you've heard the old adage about using the right tool for the right job. This holds true for the cleaning industry as well. Our tools include mops, microfiber cloths, cleaning chemicals, and dozens of other items to increase productivity and performance. In the home cleaning industry, the single most expensive tool we need to buy is a vacuum cleaner. For years, the standard has been the familiar upright vacuum cleaner. For many applications, an upright may indeed be the right choice. But as our industry changes, so do the tools we use to increase efficiency and remain competitive. While not new, the backpack vacuum has become the tool of choice by many home cleaning companies. 

Why choose a backpack vacuum?
One important reason is increased productivity. Credible research has shown that backpack vacuums can clean more than twice the square footage of conventional uprights in the same amount of time. This is because using the proper technique encourages a more natural walking motion, which is more ergonomic for the user. There is also less repetitive motion involved in using a backpack and it allows the user to keep a better posture while cleaning. Using the proper technique also helps to reduce fatigue, an obvious deterrent to efficient cleaning practices.

Another reason to buy a backpack is its versatility. There are several different uses in a home, including vacuuming stairs, blinds, vents, around furniture, baseboards, around electric cords, cobwebs in corners, door and window tracks, just to name a few.  Users are able to clean close, confined areas much more easily when not having to maneuver around with an upright. Cleaning transition areas between carpet and hard floors is a snap, as is vacuuming around and under area rugs and mats. Many uprights come with a hose and hand tools attached, but they are typically more cumbersome to use and are more limited in length and range of motion.

Common misconception
A common misconception about backpacks is that they do not clean as well as an upright. Again, credible research shows this is not true. Quest, an independent testing firm, concluded an upright vacuum removed between 88-95% of soil compared to 91-96% for backpacks. This is not a huge difference, but it helps dispel the myth about the effectiveness of backpacks. One thing to consider however is that an upright vacuum will leave a piled carpet with that "just vacuumed" pattern that many people have come to expect. Some backpack manufacturers realize this and are now making floor tools with this ability.

How do you choose which backpack to buy?
Consider the following. First, make sure you are comparing apples to apples when you look at different models and manufacturers. Price ranges vary dramatically, so don't expect the same features from a $200 vacuum as you do from a $500 vacuum.  Comfort is always important, so you must make sure the vacuum fits properly. Padded shoulder and waist straps should fit snuggly, yet comfortably. Straps should have multiple adjustment points to allow proper fit for the user's body type. Ideally, most of the weight should rest on the hips, not the shoulders, and it should include an adjustable back support.

Where does the hose come out of the unit? Many backpacks have the hose come out the top, but it should also swivel so it is easy to transfer between right- and left-handed use. Is the hose long enough to be effective?  Also, find the power switch to see how easy it is to turn on and off. We like the switch attached to what is known as a "pigtail," which is a short cord attached to the main body. It is easier to reach than a switch that is molded to the body itself, and you are less likely bump the switch, accidentally turning the vacuum on or off.

All backpacks come with a filtration system. Backpacks are much more efficient at filtering out dirt and dust, resulting in less dust being recirculated into the air. Higher quality bags filter out even more dust, and some units are rated to HEPA standards. This is important because of the emphasis placed on "green cleaning" these days, as air quality is a key component. Filtration systems also filter out molds and other allergens, a fact you can use in your marketing efforts promoting health and safety. The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) has a Green Seal of Approval for those vacuums meeting their standards for emissions.

What style should you choose?
There are many styles of backpacks to choose from, and several manufacturers. Think about the intended purpose and who will be using the vacuum. Let's face it - in the house cleaning industry, the predominate number of employees are female. Many of the commercial backpacks are large and a bit cumbersome for people of smaller stature. And with the larger size comes added weight; so if this is a concern, take a look at lightweight models. Users are more likely to bump into furniture and knock items off tables with a larger vacuum, so a smaller unit would be more suitable.  One style we like that addresses these issues is the "hip-style" backpack. The only downside of the hip-style vacuum is that you'll have to change the bag more often.

One last word of advice - ask your supplier to allow you to demo their products. No advice can beat hands-on experience with a piece of equipment. Check for all the features we have discussed-although comfort and ease of use are the most important factors to consider. The best-performing vacuum is useless if it is collecting dust in your storage room.

Backpacks have become a mainstay in this industry, and can be a valuable tool in your arsenal. Research your choices, ask questions, and don't be reluctant to change your attitudes towards trends in the industry.  After all, if you don't stay current, your competition undoubtedly will.

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Jean Hanson has been in the cleaning industry for over 23 years. She is the former owner of two cleaning companies and co-founder of two online communities devoted to the success of cleaning business owners worldwide. In 2005 Jean and her husband Steve co-founded TheJanitorialStore.com, an online community for owners of commercial cleaning companies, with members in all 50 states and over 30 countries. In 2009 they launched MyHouseCleaningBiz.com, a website devoted to helping owners of residential cleaning companies.

Jean is a contributor to Services Magazine, Home Cleaner Magazine, BSCAI's Connections Newsletter, and the ISSA website. She has written and produced industry-related ebooks, training programs and training videos, and is the author of the popular blog, Cleaning-Success.com. You can reach Jean at 866-221-4490 or at http://www.MyHouseCleaningBiz.com.

Copyright 2010 Home Cleaner Magazine.