During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, door-to-door salesmen were extremely popular in America. Many products were sold through the “door-to-door” method, including brushes, cookware, encyclopedias, and even vacuums. Before department stores and online shopping became the norm, salesmen went from house to house, demonstrating the newest and most innovative products to the public. Before long, the vacuum cleaner was added to the list of “must-have” door-to-door products.
Early Vacuum Cleaners
The early vacuum cleaners were very different from what we know today. Back in the early 1900s, vacuum cleaners were large, bulky machines that required two people to operate. One person would push the machine around while the other would operate the bellows that powered the suction.
Despite the awkward nature of these early machines, salesmen still found a market for them. The idea of being able to clean carpets and floors without having to sweep or scrub was a revolutionary idea at the time. The machine made it possible to clean even the dirtiest of carpets with little effort.
Vacuums Go Electric
The first “electric” vacuum cleaner wasn’t actually electric at all. Instead, it was a gasoline-powered machine called the “Horseless Carriage” that was invented by John Thurman in 1899. Thurman’s machine was much lighter than previous models and easier to maneuver, which made it a hit with salesmen and customers alike.
A few years later, the first true electric vacuum cleaner was invented by a man named Hubert Cecil Booth. His machine was smaller and easier to use than the Horseless Carriage, and it quickly became the dominant vacuum cleaner on the market.
Door-To-Door Salesmen and Vacuums
As vacuum cleaners became more popular, door-to-door salesmen started to focus on selling them exclusively. Salesmen would go from house to house with a vacuum cleaner in tow, offering demonstrations to anyone who would listen. Many salesmen became quite skilled at convincing people that they needed a vacuum cleaner, even if they didn’t necessarily want one.
The door-to-door approach worked extremely well for vacuum cleaner manufacturers. People were able to see how the machines worked first-hand, and they were often convinced to buy one right then and there. Many people were impressed by how much dirt and debris the vacuum cleaner was able to pick up, which made owning one seem like a necessity.
Bissell
Bissell was one of the most successful vacuum cleaner companies of the early 20th century. They used door-to-door salesmen extensively, and by 1920, they were selling more vacuum cleaners than any other company in America. Bissell’s salesmen were well-trained and could sell a vacuum cleaner to just about anyone.
Hoover
The Hoover Company is now synonymous with the vacuum cleaner, but in the early days, they were just another company trying to make a name for themselves. It wasn’t until the 1920s that Hoover really took off, thanks in large part to door-to-door salesmen. Hoover’s salesmen were known for their persistence and were often able to convince people to buy a vacuum cleaner when they didn’t necessarily want or need one.
Conclusion
Door-to-door salesmen played a huge role in the success of the vacuum cleaner in the early 20th century. Despite the fact that vacuum cleaners were bulky and often difficult to use, salesmen were able to convince people that they were a necessity. Today, vacuum cleaner technology has improved significantly, but the idea of a door-to-door salesman trying to sell one to you is a thing of the past.
Further reading: Robot Vacuum: Do You Really Need One on Every Floor?
Frequently Asked Questions about What Vacuums Were Sold Door To Door
1. What were some popular door-to-door vacuum brands in the past?
Some popular vacuum brands that were sold door-to-door in the past include Kirby, Electrolux, and Rainbow.
2. Why were vacuums sold door-to-door instead of in stores?
Vacuums were often sold door-to-door because it allowed the salesperson to give a personalized demonstration of the product in the customer’s home. This also allowed the salesperson to highlight the vacuum’s features and benefits in a more personal way.
3. Are door-to-door vacuum sales still common today?
Door-to-door vacuum sales are not as common today as they were in the past. While some companies still utilize this selling method, it is now more common to purchase vacuums in stores or online.
4. Were there any disadvantages to purchasing a vacuum door-to-door?
Some potential disadvantages of purchasing a vacuum door-to-door could include pushy sales tactics, high-pressure sales, and potential scams. It was important for consumers to do their research and make an informed decision before making a purchase.
Further reading: What Is A Good Suction Power For A Vacuum?