Would not recommend this vacuum.  The extension parts of the handle come apart easily.  A small "door" to open or shut (allowing control of suction power for hard floors vs. carpet) pinches my hand everytime I use the vacuum and won't stay open or closed, acc. to what I need.  Terribly noisy and just generally not user friendly.  Bought this to replace a small Dirt Devil vac that I loved and has been discontinued.  This was not a good substitute at all.