The Kenmore 24195 Magic Blue vacuum is a fine appliance if you are not looking for what I call a "full size" power vacuum. It works well for apartments, dorm rooms, and as a backup vacuum or for times when you need to do a quick vacuum job and avoid dragging out a full size machine.

It is great for cleaning automobiles because it is so lightweight and easily transportable.

The Magic Blue does not do a great job on carpet, but it is excellent on tile, linoleum, wood, etc. A large house with a great deal of carpet would require a more heavy duty and higher priced unit, but with a price tag of $120-$150, it is hard to find a better portable vacuum cleaner.

At first sight, it is hard to imagine this machine for use in a full size home, but we bought it because of the small space it requires for storage. Our house is primarily hardwood and ceramic, so this vacuum works very well for us. It is so small and lightweight, I often carry it rather than pull it while I am vacuuming.

If you have stairs, you will appreciate the convenience of this vacuum's portability; it is a breeze to carry up and down the stairs. The suction also compares favorably with larger Kenmore vacuums that we have owned, and is surprising considering the price range of this unit.

There are three disadvantages to this vacuum. The first is the carpet attachment, which does not have a power actuator on the bottom. The rotor that turns to beat dust and dirt into the hose operates solely on the suction of the machine, and will often get fibers and hair in it making it stall.

The second disadvantage is the size of the bag. Because everything is so compact, the bag can get full rather quickly, especially if you have pet hair to vacuum on a regular basis.

The last disadvantage is the short length of the cord, which requires hopping from one receptacle to another. Just two or three more feet of cord would make a big difference.

The handle is telescopic so that you can let it in to do furniture, stairs, and so forth and it is very easy to pull through tight areas because of its length. We seldom use our full size Kenmore since we bought the Magic Blue.

Used under the right circumstances, I highly recommend this small vacuum. It works well for a small lake house or apartment where storage is a problem, and it is priced right for those working with a limited budget. I would definitely buy this same model again in the future.