The vacuum cleaner has come a long way since its creation in 1868 and is now a regular staple in household’s worldwide. Here are some interesting facts about the vacuum cleaners rise to fame!
In the beginning: Before the vacuum cleaner was powered by a motor, it ran on human power. The Whirlwind, for example, was invented in 1868 by Ives McGaffey. Ives’ vacuum used a belt-driven fan which needed to be cranked by hand. His design however, never made it to market. Over the years, many inventors created vacuums to try and solve the most pressing household dilemma of the era; how to remove dust from Victorian style rugs. Many vacuums came and went and some, like the Baby Daisy, even required two people to operate.
Turn of the century motorized vacuum: The motorized vacuum cleaner was invented by Hubert Cecil Booth in England in 1901. His vacuum, ‘Puffing Billy’ was so large, that it required a horse-drawn wagon to move it. It also ran on gasoline. In fact, Lord Chamberlain was so impressed with the results of the vacuum that he bought two from Hubert in 1902; one to be used at Buckingham Palace and the other at Windsor Castle.
Vacuums inspired hairdryers: Surprisingly enough, the vacuum cleaner technology laid the foundation for the hooded salon hair dryer in 1920.
Shaping the 20th century: William Henry ‘Boss’ Hoover paved the way for vacuum cleaners in the 1930’s. He bought the patent for the electronic suction sweeper and used it to develop the first suction vacuum. The aesthetics of his vacuum was later improved by Henry Dreyfuss, who added a hood to cover the internal components of the vacuum.
Modern day: The vacuum cleaner still plays a major role in our lives today. According to the Vacuum Cleaner Manufactures Association, 98% of households have a vacuum cleaner.
