Emma Roth Finds Value in a Thrift‑Store Kenmore Vacuum
Key Points
- Emma Roth bought a Kenmore Progressive 116 vacuum for $7 at a thrift store.
- The vacuum offers strong suction that handles crumbs, pet hair, and various floor surfaces.
- It includes a brush, crevice cleaner, and hard‑floor tool for versatile cleaning.
- Roth uses it alongside a robot vacuum, finding it more effective at debris pickup.
- The plastic casing has yellowed over time and the unit is heavy, requiring occasional adjustments.
- The plug can be accidentally pulled, leading to thoughts of a cordless alternative.
- Replacement parts are readily available, and the roller is easy to clean.
- Roth’s positive view is influenced by childhood memories of similar vacuums.
Emma Roth, a writer for The Verge, purchased a Kenmore Progressive 116 vacuum for $7 at a local thrift store. She praises its strong suction, versatile attachments, and ability to handle crumbs, pet hair, and various floor types. While the plastic has yellowed and the unit is heavy, she appreciates the ease of maintenance and the availability of replacement parts, preferring it over a cordless Dyson despite occasional frustrations.
Background
Emma Roth, a journalist at The Verge, bought a Kenmore Progressive 116 vacuum for $7 while browsing a thrift store. She needed a vacuum and was drawn to the model because her parents had used a similar one.
Performance and Versatility
The vacuum delivers impressive suction, capable of picking up crumbs, stubborn pet hair, and debris from rugs, tiled floors, sofas, and hard‑to‑reach corners. It comes with a brush, a crevice cleaner, and a hard‑floor tool. Roth uses it between runs of her robot vacuum, which she says does not pick up as much as the Kenmore.
Drawbacks
Over time the white plastic has yellowed, and the unit is relatively heavy, requiring occasional yanking of the hose to maneuver. The plug can be unintentionally pulled from the wall, prompting thoughts of switching to a cordless Dyson, though she remains attached to the Kenmore.
and Maintenance
Roth highlights the ease of cleaning the roller and the ready availability of replacement parts, which she finds to be a significant advantage.
Personal Connection
Although she no longer has pets, growing up with cats and dogs gave her a strong appreciation for a vacuum that can handle pet hair.