The Hoover Portable Canister Cleaner S1361 is a lightweight vacuum with an eye-catching exterior in a vibrant orange color.

Coming in at less than $80, the S1361 is a relatively inexpensive canister vacuum. The trade-off, we discovered, is that the vacuum lacks a variety of tools. It has only one attachment -- a combination dusting brush and crevice tool. The addition of other attachments would have given this model the versatility of several other canister vacuums we tested. Given the absence of attachments, we were surprised to discover the S1361 is equipped to clean bare floors. To do so, one uses the same nozzle as for carpets -- unlike many of today's canister vacuums that have separate bare floor attachments.

Although the Hoover S1361 is a bare-bones model, it does have variable speed motor and a dial to manually adjust the vacuum's suction. We like the adjustable suction feature, because it allows us to clean draperies and curtains without pulling them into the nozzle. The adjustable suction also is useful for delicate area rugs. It's important to note that even on its most powerful setting, the suction wasn't as strong as we expected. While the Hoover Portable Canister Cleaner S1361 did an adequate job of clearing debris from carpets, it required more than one pass to do so. It also failed to pick up pet hair or larger objects, such as sand.

The Hoover's telescoping chrome wand is useful, especially because it means the vacuum doesn't take up too much storage space. We like the hose's swivel action and the retractable power cord. The cord is only 17 feet, and we prefer cords of at least 28 feet. With a 17-foot cord, we found ourselves moving the power cord to different electric outlets more often than we liked.

The S1361 has an indicator light that lets the user know when the collection bag is full. This is a practical feature, and one that canister vacuums often lack, so we were surprised to see it on this model. Our chief complaint centers on the attachment, the hose and the telescoping wand. Without a secure grip between the hose and the wand or attachments, a frustrating problem develops: The hose and wand separate. The same is true for the attachment and wand.

Because the vacuum lacks powerful suction, has only one attachment, and fails to keep its hose and wand connected, we can't fully recommend it. In fact, its lack of performance, features and utility make us doubtful it's worth the $80 price tag.


Pros: Price
Cons: One combo attachment, poor suction, connection fails between hose and wand

Warranty
1 year