As seen on MSNBC.com. 

Got a cramped closet? Some of the latest vacuums fold for compact storage, while others cram upright and canister features into one machine. But our best vacuums tests show that several brands should pay more attention to cleaning.

New uprights that fold include the $70 Hoover Fold Away Widepath and $300 Electrolux Intensity. We also tested the folding $500 Dyson Stowaway, the brand’s new canister. Yet only the Electrolux was impressive at cleaning carpets — our toughest test and the type of cleaning vacuums typically do most. Indeed, only three of the latest additions to our Ratings were better than mediocre for carpet cleaning.

Our tests of more than 60 uprights and canisters include a new top performer among canister vacs. We also tested vacuums that claim to kill germs and clean their own filters, among other promises. But some could disappoint you if you value cleaning over gadgetry.

Click here to read specific findings from Consumer Reports.