A canister type vacuum is best if the majority of your floors are hard. There are so many out there! Decide on a price range, and what you want in a vac (HEPA filtration or not for example), then read as much as you can on the different models.

One suggestion I do have, is consider getting a professional type wet/dry mop. I recently got one and love it. It has 1 microfiber duster and 4 microfiber cleaning pads. They attach to the base with velcro. It's really easy to go over my tile and hardwood flooring when I want to clean it but don't want to lug out the vacuum or steam cleaner.

Here is a link that might be useful: {{gwi:1428641}}

have you both had good success with steam cleaner on the hardwood floors? I purchased a shark steam mop but haven't yet tried it on my hardwood floors.

I *completely* agree with the canister over upright on any non-carpeted floor. My upright just threw dirt behind it on linoleum. That said, in my new house with all hard floors (wood, tile, concrete), I *love* my central vac. I know that is not likely to be an option in an existing house, but retrofitting is a possibility depending on your situation. If it's in your budget, research that for sure! It is not terribly advanced in the DIY area either (but neither is it "beginner").

I have a question about the steam cleaners that are made for wood. Do they work well? They seem like they would potentially damage the wood. I'm not getting that whole idea...just curious.

Thanks for all the input.

As far as steam cleaning hardwood goes, I'm a little nervous as well. I should have clarified that the steam cleaner is for the tile. I would like a regular vacuum that works well on the tile and wood. I agree with the idea that wood might be damaged with steam. I have a friend who steam cleans her wood weekly. The house is only 9 months old. Curious to see if there is damage over time.

I have a vapor cleaner that works well on the hardwood. The key is (relatively) dry vapor, not wet steam. You don't want to apply a lot of moisture to the wood. With my steamer you attach the cloth to the steamer head in such a way that most of the steam escapes so that you clean the floor with a hot, barely damp cloth.

This question comes up on a regular basis, so if you do a search on the cleaning forum, you should find lots of opinions. Also think it was just in the home decorating forum.

I have much the same situation you have and after much research, bought a Meile vacuum. They are not inexpensive, but are well worth the money. People seem to keep these for years and the guarantee is very long. I have had a Kirby, Hoover Wind Tunnel and an Electrolux and they don't compare. If you are interested, there is plenty of info. about them online.

For the times I don't need a vacuum, I use the Bona system. It was recommended by our flooring company and I am pleased with the way it works. It is a mop handle with different attachments for when you want to just dust mop or one for cleaning. They have a spray that you use with it. I don't use steam or water on my floors. HTH