I need a new vacuum  

get a shop vac

7x the power, they cost like $70 and they last forever, maybe a new filter every 2 years or so

I have had the same Filter Queen vacuum for over 25 years. It wasn't cheap but it has worked without problems for the entire time.

It's a cannister type with a power beater bar attachment which I like very much since it allows me to do all types of vacuuming. There are many attachments including one for making foam for carpet cleaning. I have tried each attachment at least once but I did use the foamer for many years until my grandmother gave me her steamcleaner.

I have done housecleaning for people and I'm very frustrated when they only have an upright vacuum and sometimes without any type of hose attachment. How does someone keep dust under control with that?

I have 3 cats so I know what you mean about the hair. If you can find a Filter Queen second hand I'd say you would get a great vacuum for your needs.

Well I don't know much about them, But, my neighbor has a cat, she borrowed mine it's a Eureka Sanitaire, she ended up buying one...Good luck with you...

we have a Dyson its about 4 years old and it is brilliant it is yellow and grey has no bags and the container for the dirt can be washed , I haven't any pets but you can buy an extra " Hair attachment " the warranty with Dyson is brilliant , My hose burst a week before it was due to run out and they sent a new one no quibble at all , well worth considering xx

I swear that the manufactures of vacuum cleaners make these throw away models now- I went to a upright bagless windtunnel about 3 years ago-- They say bagless is the way to go-- I'm telling you I have bought at 3 vacuums in the 3 year period. The filters are expensive- Each vacuum when vacuuming bare floors shoots dirt particles out the back- so instead of sucking them up it throws them out?? I keep saying I'm going to by a dyson or a vaccum with a bag but haven't gotten around to it yet-
I want a vacuum that works the first time and doesn't anger me! : )

I'm going to be reading your responses as well to get ideas!

I have a Kirby and I LOVE it. They're expensive I will not deny it. But the options it has are remarkable.
One of the tools does bed and furniture. It has a 7 inch suck. No more do you need to flip the mattress to clean it. Love that tool.

When you use it the entire floor vibrates it cleans that deep. I have an old house (176) years and when we first got my husband went to the basement to see if anything was happeneing. He said he could see wood fragments moving with the power of this thing.

I would highly recommend it. They last for years and years.

I wish I had one of those Dawsons! I know, cat hair is awful. Mine was always clogged when I had cats. I think dirt devils are pretty good for that. Someone here suggested a shop vac which would be nice if you can afford one.