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When all cleaning tasks are done, the S4210 has a good storage element with the only downside being that there is a lot of hose viewable despite the compacting metal extension tube. Like so many other cylinders on the market the S4210 has two park positions, one at the back of the cleaner when in use and one at the side. It is this side park position which causes so much of the hose to push itself out which makes storage tricky but lately I've found the hose can actually fold itself into an "S" formation which is less bulky than other cylinder/canisters I have owned. The Miele is also small enough to be pushed under average shelving or tight spaces.

* Downsides *

The bag indicator is a mechanical bag indicator which shows orange whenever the bag is full but I'm so used to the better electronic LED light on my Sebo it smacks of cheapness on this otherwise premium branded product.

* Filtration & Bags *

The material bags hold a total capacity of 3.5 to 4 litres of dust which is double the capacity usually of bagless cyclonic vacuums. Of course bagless means there's no cost involved with bags but I find most bagless cyclonic canisters a total mess with escaping dust and emptying.

When I have used the Super Clean filter, most obvious odours from dust pick up such as pet hair can be obvious which is why I paid out extra for Miele's HEPA Active filter. Both HEPA filters are non-washable and in this respect I value my health more than my wallet. In my experience a HEPA filter proves it worth when it filters clean fresh air from the exhaust motor and in this respect where the main HEPA filter is installed, the Miele releases clean fresh air whenever it is used. Miele HEPA filters have hospital grade standards and have proven to offer the highest filtration.

Changing the bag and filters however has been well thought out. Everything slides out or has its own cartridge mechanism which is great for anyone who doesn't like to touch dirt. The beauty with Miele (and Sebo) is that the filters and bags can only be installed in one direction and the bags have plastic seals on them which need to be pulled upwards to seal the bag. This ensures that once a full bag is taken out of the cleaner no dust ever escapes.

* Final Conclusion *

In terms of cost the S4210 at full price can be seen as an expensive cylinder vacuum cleaner but then it usually sits with other premium priced products which offer very little else other than increased power, more floor head options (Miele extend their professionalism with cost optional floor heads which the S4000 can also use), increased weight and a bigger size. For anyone looking for a good quality compact cylinder vacuum which uses bags, Miele's S4210 is a worthy contender. The quality of the parts and fittings are very smooth, very impressive and feel as if they are built to professional standards. It is true to say that whilst Miele aren't a cheap vacuum manufacturer, their goods generally have a 21 year span expectancy and most like this S4000 come with extensive guarantees. But this is an excellent all rounder which by its very size goes to prove that not everything smaller than a Dyson is poor. On the contrary its size is excellent for small homes and consumers looking for a vacuum which won't take up the whole of a closet, floor space or feel bulky in use.

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