Kirby Vacuum Review: Is This Worth Your Money?

You know that feeling when you vacuum your carpet and wonder if you are just pushing dirt around? Well, get ready to meet a vacuum that actually makes your floors clean.

The Kirby vacuum has been around for over 100 years, and people still talk about it like it is some kind of cleaning superhero. But here is the real question: should you spend your hard earned money on one? Let’s find out together!

Key Takeaways:

• Built Like a Tank: Kirby vacuums are made with metal construction right here in America. These machines can last 20, 30, even 40 years with proper care. You buy it once and might never need another vacuum again.
• Premium Price Point: New Kirby systems cost between $2,000 and $2,700. This is a serious investment, but used models sell for much less and work just as well.
• Carpet Cleaning Champion: The rotating brush and powerful suction make Kirby vacuums excellent for deep cleaning carpets. They pull out dirt that other vacuums leave behind.
• Weight is Real: These machines weigh about 23 pounds. If you have mobility issues or multiple floors, the weight can be challenging.
• More Than Just a Vacuum: Kirby systems come with 15+ attachments. You get a carpet shampooer, hard floor cleaner, upholstery tool, and more in one machine.
• 3 Year Limited Warranty: All new Kirby systems include a three year warranty for registered owners, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

What Makes Kirby Vacuums Different from Other Brands

Kirby stands out in the vacuum world for several reasons. First, these machines use metal construction instead of plastic. This makes them heavier but also much more durable. The aluminum body can take a beating and keep working.

The company has been making vacuums since 1914. That is over a century of experience. They handcraft each vacuum in the United States. When you buy a Kirby, you support American manufacturing jobs.

Another unique feature is the all in one design. Most vacuums just vacuum. Kirby systems can vacuum, shampoo carpets, clean hard floors, blow leaves, inflate air mattresses, and even spray cleaning solutions. You get multiple cleaning tools in one package.

The airflow on Kirby vacuums is industry leading. This means stronger suction that pulls dirt from deep in your carpet fibers. Many users report seeing dirt come up even after using other vacuums.

Kirby Avalir 2: The Current Popular Model

The Kirby Avalir 2 was the flagship model from 2017 to 2024. It features a blue accented design that looks modern and professional. This model comes with the Multi Surface Shampoo System and 15 different cleaning tools.

The Avalir 2 includes HEPA filtration that traps 99.97% of particles. This makes it great for people with allergies or asthma. The sealed system keeps dust and allergens inside the bag instead of blowing them back into your air.

Users love the adjustable brush roll. You can turn the brush on or off depending on what you are cleaning. The manual carpet pile height adjustment lets you customize the vacuum for different carpet types.

The TechDrive Power Assist feature helps the vacuum move forward on its own. This reduces the effort needed to push the heavy machine across your floors. Many users say this feature makes the weight much less of an issue.

Understanding Kirby Vacuum Pricing and Value

Let’s talk money. A brand new Kirby Avalir Platinum costs around $2,749 for the complete system. The Avalir 2 typically sells for $2,400 to $2,600. This is expensive compared to most vacuums.

However, used Kirby vacuums offer incredible value. You can find older models from the 1990s and 2000s for $75 to $300. These machines still work great because of their durable construction.

The high price comes from several factors. Kirby uses door to door sales representatives instead of retail stores. This sales method adds cost. The metal construction and American manufacturing also increase the price.

Is it worth it? That depends on your needs. If you have lots of carpeting, plan to stay in your home for many years, and want one machine that does everything, Kirby can be a smart investment. The vacuum might outlast your house!

Top 3 Alternatives for Kirby Vacuum

The Multi Surface Shampoo System Explained

The Multi Surface Shampoo System is one of Kirby’s most loved features. This attachment lets you deep clean carpets without renting a separate machine. You fill the tank with water and Kirby carpet shampoo, then scrub your carpets clean.

The system uses dry foam technology. This means your carpets dry faster than with traditional wet carpet cleaners. Most carpets dry in about 30 to 60 minutes.

You can also use the shampoo system on hard floors. It works on vinyl, linoleum, hardwood, and laminate. The gentle cleaning action removes dirt without damaging your floors.

The portable sprayer attachment makes cleaning stairs and upholstery easy. You can tackle spot stains, clean your car interior, or refresh your couch cushions. This versatility saves money on professional cleaning services.

Genuine Kirby Vacuum Bags and Filters

Kirby uses disposable bags instead of bagless technology. The current bags are HEPA certified and come in F Style or Twist Style designs. Most users prefer bags over bagless systems because they are more hygienic.

The Micron Magic Plus bags (part number 204814) offer the highest filtration. These bags trap tiny particles that other bags miss. A six pack usually costs around $20, which gives you six months to a year of use.

Changing bags is simple. When the bag feels full, you twist it off and throw it away. No touching dirty filters or dumping dust bins. This is especially nice for people with dust allergies.

Some users worry about the ongoing cost of bags. However, Kirby bags last longer than you might think. The large capacity means you change them less often than smaller vacuum bags.

Kirby Performance on Different Floor Types

Kirby vacuums excel on carpeting. The powerful suction and rotating brush roll dig deep into carpet fibers. Users consistently report that Kirby pulls up dirt that other vacuums leave behind. If you have thick carpeting or area rugs, Kirby delivers excellent results.

On hard floors, Kirby works but requires more effort. You need to switch off the brush roll and possibly add a hard floor attachment. The weight can make pushing the vacuum across smooth floors feel like work.

Pet hair is no match for Kirby. The strong suction and brush agitation pull pet hair from carpets effectively. The HEPA filtration also helps trap pet dander that causes allergies.

For stairs, you need to use the portable attachment. The main vacuum unit is too heavy to carry up and down stairs safely. The hose and smaller tools work well for stair cleaning once you get used to them.

Maintenance and Longevity of Kirby Vacuums

Kirby vacuums are famous for lasting decades. Many families pass them down through generations. The metal construction does not crack or break like plastic vacuums.

Basic maintenance is straightforward. You change the bag when full, replace the belt every six months to a year, and clean the brush roll occasionally. The belts cost around $6 for a three pack.

The motors are powerful and well built. They rarely fail if you use the vacuum properly. Some Kirby vacuums from the 1970s and 1980s still run perfectly today.

If something does break, replacement parts are readily available. Local Kirby distributors can service your machine. Many vacuum repair shops work on Kirby vacuums because they are so common.

The warranty covers three years for new machines. This is longer than many cheaper vacuums. Used Kirby vacuums obviously do not come with warranties, but their reliability makes this less concerning.

The Weight Factor: What You Should Know

Let’s address the elephant in the room. Kirby vacuums weigh about 23 pounds. This is heavy compared to modern lightweight vacuums that weigh 10 to 15 pounds.

The weight comes from the metal construction and powerful motor. These features make the vacuum durable and effective, but they also make it harder to push around.

The TechDrive Power Assist helps significantly. This feature makes the vacuum drive itself forward. You guide it rather than push it. Many users say this makes the weight manageable.

If you have back problems or limited strength, the weight might be a dealbreaker. Some people find the vacuum too heavy even with power assist. This is an important consideration before buying.

For single story homes, the weight is less of an issue. If you need to carry the vacuum upstairs frequently, you might struggle. Consider keeping one Kirby upstairs and one downstairs if you have a large multi level home.

Kirby Vacuum Attachments and Accessories

Kirby systems come with an impressive array of attachments. The standard package includes 15 different tools for various cleaning tasks. This versatility makes Kirby more than just a vacuum.

The upholstery tool cleans furniture and car interiors. The crevice tool reaches tight spaces between cushions and baseboards. The dusting brush gently cleans delicate surfaces.

The extension wands and hoses give you reach for high areas like ceiling fans and light fixtures. Some attachments let you blow instead of suck, which is useful for cleaning garages or workshops.

The zip brush removes pet hair from upholstery. The turbo brush provides extra agitation for tough carpet stains. These specialized tools would cost hundreds of dollars if purchased separately.

Storing all these attachments can be challenging. Some users buy separate caddies to keep everything organized. The standard storage area on the vacuum holds a few tools but not all of them.

Comparing Kirby to Modern Vacuum Brands

How does Kirby stack up against popular brands like Dyson, Shark, and Bissell? Each has strengths and weaknesses.

Dyson vacuums are lighter and easier to maneuver. They have modern features like cordless operation and LED displays. However, they cost almost as much as Kirby and typically do not last as long. Dyson uses plastic construction that can crack over time.

Shark vacuums offer good value for the price. They cost much less than Kirby and work well for light to moderate cleaning. However, Shark vacuums usually last 3 to 7 years before needing replacement. They cannot match Kirby’s deep carpet cleaning power.

Bissell vacuums provide budget friendly options with decent performance. They are lighter than Kirby and easy to use. Like Shark, they do not have the longevity or cleaning power of Kirby systems.

Kirby wins on durability and carpet cleaning performance. Modern brands win on convenience, weight, and upfront cost. Your choice depends on what matters most to you.

Should You Buy New or Used Kirby Vacuums

This is a critical question. New Kirby vacuums cost $2,000 to $2,700. Used models sell for $75 to $500 depending on age and condition. The used market offers tremendous value.

Kirby vacuums from the 1990s and 2000s work just as well as new models. The basic design has not changed much. Older machines might lack some newer features like TechDrive, but they clean carpets just as effectively.

Buying used means you miss the warranty and door to door demonstration. However, you save thousands of dollars. Many people consider this a fair tradeoff given Kirby’s reliability.

Where should you buy used Kirby vacuums? Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and eBay all have listings. Local vacuum repair shops sometimes sell refurbished units with short warranties.

Check the condition carefully before buying used. Make sure the motor runs smoothly and the attachments are included. Ask how old the machine is and whether it has been serviced recently.

Real User Experiences and Reviews

What do actual Kirby owners say? Reviews are mixed but generally positive for carpet cleaning performance.

Many users praise the deep cleaning ability. They report cleaner carpets and less dust in their homes. Allergy sufferers often mention breathing easier after switching to Kirby.

The weight is the most common complaint. Some people return their Kirby because it is too heavy to use comfortably. Others adapt and say the cleaning results are worth the effort.

Customers love the durability. Stories of 20, 30, and 40 year old Kirby vacuums still running strong are common. This longevity makes people feel good about their investment.

The door to door sales approach gets criticism. Some people feel pressured by aggressive salespeople. Others appreciate the in home demonstration that shows the vacuum’s capabilities.

Overall, people who need serious carpet cleaning power and can handle the weight tend to love their Kirby vacuums. Those who want lightweight convenience for quick cleanups often prefer lighter alternatives.

Making Your Final Decision About Kirby Vacuums

Should you buy a Kirby vacuum? Here are the key factors to consider.

Buy a Kirby if: You have lots of carpeting, want a vacuum that lasts decades, need serious cleaning power, prefer bag systems, value American made products, and can handle a heavy machine.

Skip Kirby if: You primarily have hard floors, need lightweight convenience, cannot lift heavy objects, prefer cordless vacuums, want the latest technology features, or have a tight budget.

The best approach might be buying a used Kirby to test whether it works for you. Spend $100 to $200 on a well maintained older model. If you love it, great! If the weight bothers you, you have not lost much money.

Remember that Kirby vacuums are tools, not magic wands. They excel at specific tasks, especially deep carpet cleaning. They are not perfect for every situation or every person.

Think about your actual cleaning needs. How much carpeting do you have? How often do you vacuum? Do you have physical limitations? These practical questions matter more than brand loyalty or marketing claims.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Kirby vacuums really worth the high price?

For carpet cleaning performance and longevity, yes. New Kirby vacuums are expensive, but they can last 20 to 40 years. If you divide the cost by the years of use, it becomes more reasonable. However, buying a used Kirby offers better value for most people. Used models cost much less and work just as well.

Why are Kirby vacuums so heavy?

The weight comes from the metal construction and powerful motor. Kirby uses aluminum instead of plastic to make the vacuum more durable. The large motor provides strong suction but adds weight. The TechDrive Power Assist feature helps by making the vacuum self propelling, which reduces the effort needed to push it.

Can Kirby vacuums work on hardwood floors?

Yes, but they require more effort than on carpets. You need to turn off the rotating brush and possibly add a hard floor attachment. The weight makes pushing across smooth floors challenging. Kirby works better on carpets than hard floors. If you mostly have hardwood, lighter vacuums designed specifically for hard floors work better.

How long do Kirby vacuum bags last?

This depends on your home size and how often you vacuum. Most users get two to four weeks from each bag with regular use. The large bag capacity means you change them less often than smaller vacuum bags. A six pack of bags typically lasts six months to a year for average households.

Is the Kirby shampoo system effective?

Yes, the Multi Surface Shampoo System works well for carpet and hard floor cleaning. It uses dry foam technology that cleans effectively and dries quickly. Many users report that it works as well as rented carpet cleaners. The system saves money on professional cleaning services and works great for spot cleaning and regular maintenance.

What is the warranty on Kirby vacuums?

New Kirby vacuums come with a three year limited warranty for registered owners. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty is longer than many cheaper vacuum brands offer. Used Kirby vacuums do not include warranties, but their reliability and the availability of replacement parts make this less concerning.

Can I find replacement parts for old Kirby models?

Yes, replacement parts are widely available for Kirby vacuums, even old models from decades ago. Local Kirby distributors stock parts, and many online retailers sell belts, bags, filters, and attachments. The standardized design means many parts work across different model years. This makes maintaining older Kirby vacuums easy.