Today, I’ll be presenting my personal vacuum cleaner. I’ve bought this baby a few months ago, and boy I have so much to tell you! Miele S7260 Cat & Dog upright is a representation of the the high-end 7s line vacs that have been produced under this brand name. This model has been re-branded to the Dynamic U1 Cat & Dog lately, but they’re basically one and the same (what is new is the AirClean filter, which has now a time strip that helps you see when you need to change it, and the bags are using a system called HyClean 3D, instead of the older HyClean). You will surely feel the kind of engineering and creativity that went into the design of this appliance the moment you start pushing it around on your floors. If its name did not provide much of a clue, perhaps it is time to tell you that this vacuum cleaner was specially designed for pet owners. From this brief this review, you’ll find out:
- the pros and the cons of this Miele
- whether it is worth it
- where to find a cheaper one, i.e. the Limited Edition
General overview
If you’re in a hurry, check out this great infographic I’ve made, that sums ups all the key points of this appliance:
To form a better opinion on the aspect of this vacuum, check out the pictures bellow:
Away from the bagless design, this appliance makes use of bags, which should be seen as a merit because the bags can comfortably contain the dirt and are very easy to dispose. The bags do not require regular replacement because they have a large capacity. Similarly, users are worry-free because a refill pack contains four bags, going at the most affordable price and each of them can last up to half a year. I change mine once every 4 months, but I’m a clean freak, I vacuum almost every day. Normal usage would ensure you 2 years of stress free vacuuming. With its filter-change indicator, you will automatically know when the bag is full and ripe for disposal.
The sheet of features
| Suction power | After using this for 1 minute, you'll definitely get a grasp on the power of this thing. It has a great suction power, as it automatically adjust itself to the contours of your floor. The consistent air flow gets all the dirt out of your carpets, deep rugs and bare floors. You can adjust the power of the vacuum cleaner by a rotary dial. The Vortex Motor will automatically comply and produce more or less suction, as required. |
| Input power | The S7260 consumes 1200 Watts, for powering the 4,800 RPM electro-brush motor. |
| Dust capacity | The dirt bags are big and consistent: 1.6 gallons (approx. 6 liters). These bags have a series of filtration systems that truly stand out. Other than this, I have to point out that this vac uses Type U bags, and you can get a pack of 4 for . |
| Filtration system efficiency | As I said, the bags are a big part in the filtration of this Miele. Between airborne particles less than 0.3 microns and you stand technologies such as AirClean FilterBag, or the Auto-Seal closure system. Another layer of filtration is provided by the Active Air Clean Filter, which is similar in performance with any HEPA filter. Optionally, you can get a HEPA filter instead of this, but let me assure you there's no need, as this is one of the safest vacuum cleaners I've ever tested in terms of filtration. |
| Weight and Dimensions | Measures 9.84 inches x 45.08 inches x 15.16 inches, and weights 21 lbs. |
| Warranty | Comes with a 7-year warranty on motor and casing, and 1 year warranty on all other parts. |
| Accessories | Endued with a Turbo brush nozzle, this inclusion alone can achieve a deeper cleaning exercise for pet owners and besides, it makes use of rotating bristles which are capable of doing a wonderful job in relation to pet hair. Purchasing this trendy vacuum cleaner will treat you to various accessories such as a dust brush, crevice tool, built-in telescopic wand and a hose. For this Miele, you expect nothing short of a classy feel whenever you dare each of these accessories. |
| Special features | LED lights - At the head of this vacuum cleaner you will see LED lights which have been fitted to illuminate tight and hidden places, carpets as well as tiny particles. Reinforced ergonomic handle - for easier handling. Motor protection indicator - protects the motor, if the vacuum gets clogged. |
| Usability | The appliance features an extraordinary SwivelNeck Technology which allows users to steer the vac with just an effortless twist of your wrist. It is also built in a way that it can lie flat in relation to the floor surface, making it possible to reach tight areas such as under furniture and tight corners. Maneuverability is not an issue because it is fitted with 360-degrees swivel front wheels to offer an exceptional cleaning performance. The power cord is 39 ft. long, which is incredible useful! The hose also measures an additional 12 ft. |
| Price | Mieles are expensive, as always. This vacuum is on sale for Price not available. |
An interesting aspect of the S7260 is the automatic height adjustment feature. The electrobrush literally follows the tiniest contours on your floor, carpet and any other cleaning surface, and will therefore adjust automatically to different carpet depths to provide an even and consistent suction so that a gentle cleaning exercise is achieved.
It is one of the rare vacs that you will find in the market with two motor systems. This is a plus to its functionality because one motor serves the suction purpose while the other takes care of the brush bar. Its suction control is endowed with 4 different power settings, giving users an opportunity to adequately increase or lower its power to cater for delicate fabrics, rugs and drapes.
The design cannot be termed as complete without mentioning the AirClean sealed system which can filter and retain over 99.9% of all particles, dust and allergens. For pet odors, the AirClean system has activate charcoal which absorbs and ultimately neutralizes all the unwanted pet odors. As you clean all the messy areas, therefore, you will not be worried of any foul smell.
Unlike most vacuum cleaners, the Cat &Dog S7260/Dynamic U1 has a swiveling body, which means you can apply just a little force laterally and turn a corner without struggling, all thanks to its 360-degree swivel front wheels. The body is heavy enough that you wont worry of tipping over. Similarly, its hose is flexible enough, allowing you some easy cleaning regardless of how far or hidden your surfaces may seem. With an automatically adjusting brush head, you can rush from the carpeted living room to the tiled bathroom without interrupting or losing some suction.
Other reviews
- I’ve never imagined a vacuum cleaner so easy to use and yet so versatile and powerful. I’m deeply satisfied by my purchase, and I’m definitely recommending this vacuum cleaner.
- The price made me think for over a week whether I should buy it or not. In the end, I’ve decided to go with it, and I’m not regretting. I love the way it works. I assure you, this will be your best investment.
- Prior to the purchase of this appliance, I was using a Royal canister vacuum, which I had owned for 14 years. It was such a powerful vac which duped me into thinking that suction is all that matters. After bringing in my first two pets, however, I came across this powerful appliance, which I cannot even compare to my previous cleaner. Its maneuverability is amazing. Apart from the heavy design, the functionality of this appliance simply beats the purchase price by far.
- I have only used this vacuum cleaner for a very short time but over that period, I have taken it beyond its speeds all through my house which measures around 3500 sq. ft. It is made of all types of flooring, right from plush carpet to ceramic tiles and stair runners. I really liked this machine because it beats all the bagless appliances that I have used before. While the rest were a filthy mess to empty, this is amazingly different, adding to the fact that I own a dog with dander fur. It may be a little difficult to lift across the stairs but for anyone who owns pets, this is the only vacuum cleaner that I would recommend!
A message to take home
The 7260 Cat & Dog is a superb 7s (Dynamic U1) line vacuum cleaner from Miele, but it is certainly not meant for everyone. Considering the high cost of purchase, you will have to look at your budget first. Even so, its performance cannot be compared. Its maneuverability, stability and upbeat design place it at a level that most upright vacuum cleaners are shy of. Without any more fuss, here’s the VGM:
Overall I love the Miele S7260 and I’m pretty sure you’ll do to. But if you have any comments, or you need to add something, please use the form bellow. I’d really appreciate a feedback from you!
Jason Roberts
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Patricia Rossi says
Hi Jason! What is the difference to be concerned about between the Miele S 7280 and S 7260?
Patricia Rossi says
I wanted a vacuum that would be the king of vacuums as I have a home with lots of fur babies. I chocked down the cost and went for the cat & dog Miele S7260. I guess I expected a vacuuming miracle because I have to say I am very disappointed with it. It is slick and sturdily made but is also heavy and bulking and lacks suction power. When you see a crumb right at the edge of a base board, and pass it many times without it being sucked up, that’s a problem. Also it takes many more passes to get my throw rugs clean. This replaces a Shark Navigator that went kappot. But in it’s prime I have to say the shark had much more suction power. It was a lot of money to spend on something that makes you work so hard to vacuum.
Jason Roberts says
I’m sorry to hear that, Patricia. Mine actually sucks pretty well. From where did you buy it? Take it back, present the problem to PR. If they can’t solve it, they should return your money. You can find the best suction power at Shark Rotator Truepet and Kenmore Elite.
Philip Hamm says
I share Patricia’s disappointment. This vacuum cleaner is EXTREMELY heavy which makes it a real pain to use. Also the suction is not very good, I’ve also noticed it not picking up a lot of stuff at the edge of the cleaning. The attachment with the rotating brush is excellent at picking up dog hair on furniture from my hound who likes to rub up against the furniture. Honestly that is the only good thing I have to say about this two ton behemoth. I would not purchase it again or recommend it.
I came across this review because I’m trying to fix the cleaner, the swivel mechanism is sticky and sticks when I push it forward, so I vacuum the air. A mostly poor product.
Sharon says
DId you consider the Simplicity Synchrony model designed for pets? I tested both the Miele and the Simplicity, and ultimately went with the latter. This was only yesterday, so I am still putting it through its paces!
While I liked the Miele, I wasn’t crazy about the swivel feature. The Simplicity I purchased was a floor model, so the price differential pretty much went away. It also has a much better warranty than the Miele.
Thoughts?
Thank you!
Jason Roberts says
Sharon, I’m planning to make a review for Simplicity Synchrony in the beginning of April. Thank you for the early insight!
Patricia Rossi says
Thank you Sharon. I had never heard of a Simplicity Vacuum. It looks a lot like the Miele. Where do you purchase them? How is the suction?
Sharon says
Hi Patricia,
Simplicity vacuums are sold either through independent dealers or through the online store — link at http://www.simplicityvac.com. However, the web store prices are =way= higher than at the retailer.
The parent company is Taucony Corporation; they also sell the Riccar brand, and they are virtually identical machines. In fact, I am not sure why they even have two brands, and that was going to be my next question for Jason.
While I am still testing all its various permutations, overall I am pleased; suction is good, but I haven’t found the best setting for my carpet. So, still experimenting!
Jason Roberts says
I was about to finish the Riccar company description. You’re right Sharon, they are basically one and the same. It’s almost like Hoover & VAX; however, VAX is selling in UK while Riccar and Simplicity are both targeting US.
Chris says
I have the original Bolero model that I got in 2009 and they are basically the same other than mine has sort of a touch screen method of changing the speed setting as opposed to the dial. I can’t disagree with one thing in your review. This is a unique vacuum that has amazing deep cleaning ability and the bags and filtration are flawless. The amount of dirt captured in the bag is amazing and even with a full bag (if i’ve been remiss in checking it) nothing suffers as to suction or emissions. It is peacefully quiet to use!
I will pass on a couple of observations from having a similar model for 6 years now.
1. My biggest pet peeve is the nob for the “door” to the HEPA filter in the base. It sticks fairly high up and I have many scrapes and scratches on wood coffee and end tables that have a low hanging tray near the floor.
2. I have a spare room with looped berber carpet that I had to stop using this in because the aggressiveness of the brushroll was pulling out the loops. The instructions even mention this and tell you tell turn the brush roll off when using on that type of carpet. I don’t find that using it without the brushroll moving on carpet is very effective and I have another vacuum that I can use in that room.
3. The hose is quirky to use. It seems long enough but the suction power of the machine makes it constrict and shortens it, though I have to say that the unit has not toppled over. Also the dusting tool is too small for dusting large areas and I bought the larger multi-surface tool that is much better.
4. After 6 years, I still find the step pedal to lower the unit for use to be very quirky. I know it’s because of how it’ adjusts to the floor height, but it seems unusually difficult to lower the unit for use and I often wonder if it will sometime jam and be unable to lower, though it hasn’t happened in 6 years.
5. Lastly, although the handle looks to be very ergonomic, My hand hurts after using this. Whether pushing it on carpet and especially when dusting with the attachments, something about this makes my hand hurt and I don’t find that as much with other vacuums I’ve tried.
This seems like a lot of negatives that I’ve mentioned, but it is just 6 years of observations. I totally agree with all the positives about this vacuum in your review and also agree that this is a great choice for someone that wants today’s “modern” bagged vacuum.
Jason Roberts says
Thank you Chris, for this wonderful review!
Christine Waters says
I was almost sold on the Miele but now I will look at the Simplicity. Do you recommend the canister or the upright?I have 3 dogs and frequently vacuum.Thank-you for your thorough review!
Jason Roberts says
Simplicity makes great vacuums. Which Simplicity model you have in mind? The ultra-deluxe Tandem Air line is pretty amazing.
Amy says
Hi! I wanted an opinion on which you thought was the better vacuum? I am looking at the Miele cat & dog but don’t know which to go with, the canister or the upright? I currently have a Kirby G5 and am ready for something else and not opposed to the canister, it’s just the upright is a few hundred $ less. I have 2 dogs, 1 cat, and 3 kids. Whatever insight you could provide would be helpful. Thanks!
Amy says
I also live in a story and a half style home. Thanks
Jason Roberts says
Both are very good IMO. The canister is a bit more powerful and can accommodate more accessories (head nozzles). The upright is easy to use, but may seem a bit bulky for some. In the end, it’s a matter of preferences more than a matter of specs, which are very very similar.
Rose says
What an amazing site, thank you for sharing your expertise. Hoping you can point us in the right direction. We are seniors, living in a two story home. First floor is mix of tile, wood and good quality area rugs. Top floor wall to wall carpet – how can I determine if it is medium pile – does that refer to density? Don’t need HEPA filter, no serious allergies, no pets, but we do want the highly rated sealed system that Miele offers, and a really clean carpet after vacuuming. Really like the Twist but too heavy for us to carry up and down stairs. Considering the Kona canister, but was hoping there is a lower price model that would give us what we need. Which electro brush, which wood/tile attachment etc etc. Even considered the Twist for upstairs wall to wall and a lower price canister for downstairs mix of wood, tile and area rugs; price would be close. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Jason Roberts says
Given that you don’t need HEPA and considering your budget, I think you don’t really need Miele. There are other units which vacuum carpets nicely; take a look here and here.
Gabi Loudermilk says
Does it come with on board tools for cleaning furniture/curtains?
Is it available in New Zealand?
Jason Roberts says
This upright has 3 on-board tools: a dusting brush, an upholstery tool and a crevice nozzle. Unfortunately, I don’t think the Dynamic U1 models are available in New Zealand.