Kirby vs. Rainbow Vacuum Cleaner Comparison
What brand names come to mind when you think of high-performance and reliable vacuums? A few classic options have earned a lot of goodwill over the years, including Kirby and Rainbow.
Kirby vs Rainbow
These two manufacturers regularly tout their superior cleaning performance and general durability. Consumers with limited experience in high-end vacuum systems are often surprised to discover the somewhat heated debate surrounding the Kirby vs. Rainbow vacuum cleaner.
There’s a lot to love about both cleaning systems, but one stands out in terms of versatility and power. Keep reading for a deep dive into the Kirby vs. Rainbow debate — and determine which type of cleaning system best meets your unique needs.
How Kirby and Rainbow Vacuums Are Manufactured
Nothing quite compares to the confidence of using an American-made vacuum. This is guaranteed when you own the Kirby Avalir Platinum, assembled entirely in the United States. You’ll take pride in knowing that hardworking Americans are behind your vacuum.
This is also a special consideration when purchasing a Rainbow vacuum; it is one of very few Kirby competitors producing its vacuums in the USA.
Lifetime Rebuild Program
Even the most durable vacuums typically require tune-ups from time to time. This is sometimes as simple as replacing the roller brush — but after several years or even decades, some vacuums may require additional attention. Enter the Kirby Avalir Platinum. The company offers an impressive Factory Rebuild Program, which can return any model to like-new condition for a reasonable cost. This goes above and beyond the warranty to ensure that your Kirby remains pristine long after you’ve purchased it — even if you fail to qualify for warranty coverage.
If you take advantage of the Lifetime Rebuild Program, a team of experts will disassemble your vacuum and repair or replace any parts requiring extra attention. Next up? Sandblasting, polishing, and a full inspection. Finally, your vacuum will be tested to ensure that it achieves the same level of performance that you enjoyed when you originally purchased it.
The Lifetime Rebuild Program is a clear differentiating feature between the Kirby and nearly every other vacuum on the market today. Shark vacuums, for example, can be repaired long after their initial purchase — but there is no rebuild program quite like the elite offerings from Kirby.
What to Look for in a Quality Vacuum System
No one vacuum is ideal for every user, although several Kirby models come close. Still, certain features and styles will be more desirable for some more than others. Space, budget, and cleaning power are key considerations, as is versatility. All this can be found in the Kirby Avalir Platinum, which is currently the brand’s flagship model.
Dyson produces a wider variety of models, which can be both beneficial and problematic. More products may provide better opportunities to tailor your vacuuming experience, but it also means more research. However, if you do your homework and invest in a high-end Dyson that is suited to your unique needs, you can expect dependable cleaning.
For the purposes of this guide, we’ve focused primarily on the Dyson Ball Animal II and III. These higher-end models are more in line with Kirby’s performance than other designs.
Struggling to discern the practical differences between vacuums such as the Kirby Avalir Platinum and the Dyson Ball Animal models? When in doubt, look for these essentials:
What qualities do you look for most when searching for the perfect vacuum cleaner?
The importance of mobility largely depends on when and where you intend to use your vacuum. If you’re like most people, however, you’ll find it far easier to clean with a mobile solution that you can readily move from one room to the next. Hence, the popularity of the Kirby system that makes whole-home cleaning a cinch.
Kirby is by no means the most portable vacuum currently on the market, as the strong aluminum build that makes it so durable also makes it heavier than its lightweight counterparts from Dyson and Bissell. Despite this, the Kirby Avalir Platinum requires minimal push force when in Tech Drive due to its power assist feature.
Once you’ve invested in your Kirby or Rainbow vacuum, what will happen when this important cleaning device inevitably requires maintenance?
While general durability will limit your need for repairs, you’re almost assuredly going to run into trouble at some point. When you do, you’ll find the most peace of mind if you’re equipped with a solid warranty and a rebuild solution.
Strong warranty coverage sets both Kirby and Rainbow vacuums apart from the competition. The Rainbow warranty lasts four years for the SRX Cleaning System and related accessories. Moreover, Rainbow motors get a full ten years of warranty coverage.
At first glance, the Kirby warranty might not seem quite as robust. New Kirby systems come with a three-year limited warranty. Once the warranty ends, however, you still have an excellent option for getting your vacuum into tip-top shape: the Factory Rebuild Program, which we will describe in detail below.
Kirby and Rainbow are excellent vacuum companies, so choosing between these brands could prove difficult. Both are American-made, highly versatile, and built to last.
Ultimately, it all comes down to vacuum style: can you handle a canister model, or will life be easier with an upright?
If the latter answer rings true, you will want to invest in the Kirby Avalir Platinum, which provides an exceptionally powerful clean without sacrificing mobility. This acclaimed vacuum will make cleaning a task you look forward to rather than dread.
The more separate devices you purchase, the more opportunities there will be for things to go wrong. This is especially likely if you buy separate models from different companies. It will force you to navigate multiple types of warranties, repair processes, and customer service systems.
Therein lies the value of a versatile vacuum system that can handle various household tasks. Should repairs eventually prove necessary, you’ll know where to go and how to get them covered. Using the Lifetime Rebuild Program can have multiple features or systems repaired or replaced all at once.
When versatility is a priority, you can’t do better than the Kirby Avalir 2. This powerful cleaning device is known for its elite vacuuming abilities, superior shampooing, and a suite of attachments.
Whether you want to clean carpeting, hardwood floors, tile, or your vehicle’s interior, you can get the job done with your heavy-duty vacuum from Kirby. While the durable build of your Kirby will keep the need for repairs to a minimum, you’ll be glad to have one streamlined process to navigate, as opposed to the complications of numerous devices.