Miele S5000

We have had this cleaner now for just over three years after a succession of Vax and Dyson upright models. Was initially purchased as the result of a Which Best Buy recommendation and I can't say that we have been disappointed despite using non- Miele consumables. The oft reported Hepa filter popout happened to me this morning after a particularly dusty cleaning session. Found the problem was a set of fouled up filters due to an inaccurately fitting dustbag. Vacuumed the machine out and replaced all of the filters with the exception of the HEPA filter which was vacuumed clean awaiting the delivery of a replacement. The machine is cleaning as well after the minor service as it ever was..

An exceptionally efficient, powerful and well made machine, and generally a pleasure to use. Nice to look at. A little on the heavy side though, and it's a bit complicated to use until you get used to it with the controls being built into the handle of the hose. Built-in HEPA filter is excellent for stopping dust and odours.

There is little problem obtaining the correct branded Miele bags for this machine and as another reviewer has found to their cost, it's foolish not to use the intended bags on such a sophisticated machine. They have a spring-loaded flap to prevent escape, and a wire mesh liner to prevent them bursting open, all of which is important if you're sensitive to dust mites etc.

We find our Miele to be far better made and engineered than the Dyson upright that we owned. (Footnote, when we visited the recycling centre (rubbish tip) we saw the electricals skip was entirely full of discarded Dyson vacuum cleaners.) Unlike when emptying a Dyson, you don't make a mess everywhere when you swap the sealed bags on a Miele.

This is far and away the finest machine we've owned - the main downside is that it's a bit heavy and cumbersome for carrying up and down stairs.

We've been using it for just over 2 years. The suction and its brushes were great to begin with, but after a short time the suction power reduced, although it was still usable. It suddenly stopped working completely a few months after its guarantee ran out. Of course, it costs as much to repair as to buy a new one. To be fair we didn't use the expensive Miele bags, and they say you must! But it really wasn't worth paying extra for the Brand name.