Rarely do I get excited with a canister vacuum, but when I saw the Miele Complete C3, I had to investigate what makes this German-made vacuum so unique.
I’m not going to cover one variant, but I’ll cover them all here.
From the C3 Limited Edition (Green) to the most expensive variant, the C3 Complete comes with a motorized floor tool perfect for homes with plush carpet.
Great for People with Allergies
Miele C3 Review
Miele has a reputation for manufacturing top quality products using only quality materials.
In some strange way, you can call them an anti-Dyson in how they build their products because instead of using a bagless system – all Miele vacuums I’ve covered so far use a sealed bag system.
And instead of a plastic extension wand, the C3 uses a metal wand that feels sturdy and Miele claims will last for at least 15 years.
This longevity is a big reason why their canisters are so expensive.
A quality product
But does all this quality worth the asking price of Miele?
If you want a powerful and yet lightweight canister vacuum that can clean bare floor and carpet equality well depending on the variant you choose.
The people who’ll benefit from this product the most would be allergy suffers who need something that will not only vacuum but also keep allergens inside.
These are the reasons where a bagged vacuum makes sense.
Pros
- Powerful 1,200 motor
- Versatile toolset to choose from depending on your need
- The motorized floor tool is great even on carpets because in addition to the brush roll it vibrates carpet to provide additional agitation
- Main floor tool swivels
- The sealed system keeps allergens where they should be – inside the bag
Cons
- Their top of the line variant is ridiculously expensive!
- Purchasing bags will add up over time
- Short power cord – just 22 feet
What to expect from this top of the line canister from Miele?
First off, let’s talk about the similarities of all the C3 canister vacuum across all variants. Let’s start with the motor – all variants come equipped with the Vortex Motor, manufactured by Miele. This motor has an output of 1,200 watts.
If you’re wondering why such an expensive vacuum only produces 1,200 watts, this is to comply with new EU regulations that all vacuum cleaners should not exceed the 1,600-watt threshold as well as the noise threshold set at 80 decibels.
All C3 models use the same motor and filtration system that utilizes a bag.
The capacity of these bags, based on the info provided by MieleUSA.com, is 4.76 quarts or around 1.19 gallons, which is pretty substantial for a canister vacuum.
These bags aren’t cheap, though. A box containing four bags and two filters costs around $19 in Amazon.
But if you want a dust-free environment at home, you have to consider this an investment to keep allergy triggering allergens off the carpet or bare floor.
Also, consider this too, the HEPA filtration used by the C3 meets the HEPA 13 standards that capture 99.95% of dust particles or 0.1 microns. Most other bagged vacuums will only capture up to 0.3 microns of allergens.
Another feature I like would be the indicator that tells you when the bag is full. This feature removes the guesswork and maximizes every bag you use.
Fully sealed even if you take off the bag.
One issue I have with bagged vacuums is when you remove them, there is a risk of dirt and dust spilling out because it does not close by itself.
The C3 rectifies this by adding a spring-loaded self-locking that seals the bag shut when you remove it. Inside the bag are electrostatically charged filters that trap microscopic dust and prevent it from coming back out.
Metal telescopic wand
All the C3 variants come with a metal adjustable telescopic wand that extends the reach of this vacuum up to 36 feet.
This wand is where you’ll attach the tools onto and allows this product to clean stairs, upholstery, vents, other hard to reach places.
Standard accessories that come with all the variants
All models come with three standard tools – the SSP10 dusting brush, standard upholstery tool, and extended crevice tool.
Here are the different floor cleaning tools from the different variants and a brief description of what each one does.
SEB 228 Electro Plus Electro Brush
This 14″ wide motorized brush is electronically powered, meaning it has a small motor and belt inside that powers the motorized brush.
Miele recommends this on low to plush carpet. This tool has a foot-controlled height adjustment (up to 5 levels).
SBB300-3 Parquet Twister
The SBB300-3 is excellent for flat non-carpeted surfaces like hardwood or linoleum.
It is perhaps one of the most maneuverable tools that can twist 180 degrees both ways at the flick of the wrist.
The brushes used by this bare floor cleaner is a mix of polyamide and natural hair that makes it safe to use oven of easily scratched hardwood.
It is an excellent tool for spot cleaning as well as general dusting and cobweb cleanup – particularly under the bed, as this can fold flat.
STB 101 Mini Turbobrush
The STB 101 is an upholstery tool with a motorized brush designed to clean upholstery, cut-pile carpets, and the car’s interior (flooring and seats that is). This tool has a motorized brush to agitate and pick up hard to clean debris like pet hair, cookie crumbs, bread crumbs, etc.
This mini-brush must-have tool if you have a lot of fabric upholstery at home.
STB205-3 Turbo Comfort
You’ll get this tool from the C3 Limited Edition, which is the cheapest of all the variants.
This tool is air-driven, so agitation isn’t as good.
What does this mean?
You cannot use this on plush carpets (only cut pile carpet) as it will not provide enough agitation.
SBD 285-3 AllTeQ Combination tool
The AllTeQ is another tool designed for flat surfaces, to be more specific low pile carpet and bare floors like hardwood.
It has a foot pedal that adjusts the height for low pile carpet and bare floor.
Unlike the parquet twister, this tool isn’t as maneuverable, and it does not have the soft brushes.
SEB 236 Electro Premium Powerbrush
In terms of features and functionality, the SEB 236 Electro Premium is the creme-de-la-creme of all the floor tools and is found in the higher-end models of the C3 line, namely the C3 Marin and Brilliant variants.
In addition to the motorized beater bar, this has a bright LED to aid in visibility plus swivel steering.
This tool also has an electronic foot control to adjust the height that ranges from low pile to plush carpet. A tremendous deep cleaning tool if you ask me.
Now let’s look specifically at each of the variants.
C3 Limited Edition
Based on the price, the Limited Edition looks at the entry-level as it only comes with STB 205-3 and the AllTeQ Combination Floor Tool.
Only great for bare floor
Based on this toolset, the C3 Limited Edition will work great on homes that have low pile carpet and bare floor.
This variant doesn’t have the twisty parquet floor tool.
No HEPA filtration
One thing to note is this variant doesn’t have the HEPA air clean filter out of the box. But you can purchase this part separately if you so decide to go with the better filtration that these HEPA filters bring to the table.
Buy this variant if you don’t have any pets and if your home does only has a low pile carpet. Don’t expect any deep cleaning from this because the carpet cleaning head does not have a motorized brush.
C3 Complete Alize
Next in line would be the C3 Alize that comes in a distinct ivory white color. Some say that this is an entry-level C3, but if you look at the price, it does not seem like it.
Of all the variants, this comes with the least amount of tools. The only floor attachment you’ll get with the Alize is the SBD650-3 AirTeQ floor brush that a floor tool without any motorized brush.
This tool would be great on bare floors, low pile carpet, and rugs.
But the twisty parquet tool or STB205-3 is not included.
If this has fewer tools, then why is it more expensive than the green C3 Limited Edition?
Well, it could be that this comes with an LED spotlight handle that helps with visibility.
Like the Limited Edition, this does not come with HEPA filtration, but it does have the air clean sealed system.
This model would be great for homes with bare floors and some low pile carpet that doesn’t have any pets.
Between this and the Limited Edition, I’d go with the limited edition because it comes with the extra floor tool with the beater bar.
Even though it can’t deep clean carpets, the brush roll will help a bit in terms of agitation.
C3 Calima
The bright yellow Calima is similar to the Limited Edition, the main difference that instead of the AllTeQ combination floor tool.
This model comes with the more agile SBB300-3 parquet twister with its soft brushes that I think is the best tool to have if you want to clean sensitive, easily scratched hardwood.
Great only for low pile carpet
It also comes with the air-powered turbo comfort brush, so this will only work well on low pile carpets.
Don’t expect any deep cleaning action from this variant.
Between this Calima yellow variant and the similarly priced Alize, this would be a better value because of the parquet twister attachment.
I’d pick that tool anytime over the LED light.
C3 Cat & Dog
The C3 Cat & Dog is an excellent option for pet owners looking for a canister vacuum should strongly consider this variant as it comes with all the tools that you need to clean up pet hair not only on carpet but also on bare floor and upholstery.
Here’s what you’ll get:
- Motorized floor tool (Miele calls this “Electro Plus Electrobrush”)
- Mini-motorized tool (great for upholstery or stairs)
The “Electro Plus Electrobrush tool” is excellent for deep cleaning carpet.
To keep pet hair and dander inside the bag and keep your home smelling fresh, the C3 Pet & Dog has the Active AirClean filter that absorbs and neutralizes pet odor.
If you have pets at home, this is the variant to buy. It has the tools needed to clean pet hair, and there’s no need to spend over $1,000.
Now let’s move to the next tier of the C3 variants, all of which cost over $1,000 in Amazon, and let’s break down the differences and see which one will fit your needs.
Here’s a demo of the features.
C3 Kona
The C3 Kona and the C3 Pet & Dog are similar in terms of the floor attachments that come in the package.
It comes with the ElectroPlus Electro Brush and the parquet tool, but it does not come with the mini turbo brush.
If you need a deep cleaning floor tool and you don’t have pets, this is an excellent choice because you get the same floor cleaning capabilities minus the mini turbo brush, and you save yourself around $20.
It also comes in matte black, which I like because it doesn’t get dirty as quickly as the white C3 Cat and Dog.
C3 Marin
This dark blue canister is the second most expensive cleaner in the C3 product line because it comes with a premium attachment – the SEB 236 power brush.
The motorized brush is not only electrically powered, but it also has bright LED lights that help with visibility when cleaning low lighted areas.
Deep cleaner
Along with the deep cleaning motorized floor tool, Miele also included the agile parquet tool for hard floor cleaning.
This variant does not come with the mini turbo brush for cleaning pet hair on upholstery, so I would not recommend this for pet owners as that tool itself would cost over $50 in Amazon.
If you’re particular with allergens – this variant comes with HEPA filtration that can trap up to 0.1 microns of allergens. It means that 99.95% of all the dirt and dust you clean up from carpets will stay inside the bag.
But for your deep cleaning needs, even on plush carpets, give the C3 Marin a close look.
C3 Brilliant
The C3 Brilliant is the top of the line option for the C3 product line. You’ll get the same floor attachments as the M3 Marin.
These include the.
- Parquet tool
- SEB 236 power brush
But what makes this variant $400 more expensive?
If you look at the handle, you’ll notice that it comes with handle controls that help you transition from hard floors to carpet with a push of a button.
It has a bumper strip that protects furniture from scratches. The body also has an LED strip that helps with visibility.
In terms of functionality, the Brilliant and Marin will yield similar results because it has the same set of tools. The most significant differences are the handle control, bumper strip, and LED lighting found in the Brilliant variant.
If you like to have these extra features and don’t mind spending the additional $400, go for this, but if you’re just the deep cleaning capabilities of the motorized floor tool, then go with the Marin and save the $400 for the extra bags and filters.
Features of this variant.
See it in Action
Please check the video below to see the Miele C3 in action over a dirty carpet.
I doubt you’ll clean these types of messes on a daily basis, but the fact that it is capable is an ace card to have in your backpocket just in case the need arises.
You can hear the brush roll at work picking up stuff under the strands. The forward pass was clean in relation to the amount of build up.
If it can handle messes like this, it won’t have any issues with daily clean ups.
Cord Length
All Miele Complete C3 variants come with a 22-foot power cord that has a cord rewind. When you combine it with the length of the hose and wand, the reach will extend to 36 feet.
Warranty
If you look at Miele USA’s website, all C3 variants come with a seven-year warranty on the casing and motor and a one year warranty on the other components. A bit disappointing considering that Dyson and Shark back theirs up with a five-year warranty on the whole vacuum.
Product Specifications
| Model | Complete C3 |
|---|---|
| Attachments | Varies |
| Adjustable handle height | Yes |
| Cord Length | 22 feet |
| Auto Cord Rewind | Yes |
| Motorized brush | Model specific |
| Brush on/off switch | Model specific |
| Swivel | Model specific |
| Headlight | Model specific |
| Filter clogged indicator | Yes |
| Full bin indicator | Yes |
| Bagless | No |
| Multi-surface | Yes |
| Self propelled | No |
| Net weight | 11.8 pounds |
| Hose length | N/A |
| Cleaning Path | 11.5" |
| Overall length | 43.5" |
| Dirt capacity | 1.19 gallons |
| Filter type | Model specific |
| Brush speed | N/A |
| Power | 1,200 watts |
| Voltage | N/A |
| Manufactured in | Germany |
| Warranty | 7 years casing and motor 1 year on the rest of the parts |
Customer Reviews
Consumers loved how these vacuums performed regardless of the variant – all of them got high ratings.
For parents with children at home, this is a good option because it isn’t as noisy as other brands.
If you look at their spec sheet, this vacuum produces less than 80 decibels. One consumer even mentioned that they used the C3 with their dog in the same room, and it didn’t scare it away.
Another consistent plus of this vacuum is how the bagged system left behind a fresher smelling room. Consumers loved how it didn’t spew out allergens from the exhaust, and the bags were easy to empty.
Despite being a canister, bag size is generous – over a gallon. This variant is larger than the previous generation Miele canisters.
One compared this with Miele’s upright and said that this was a better performer.
The biggest downside would be the short power cord and the price. At just 22 feet, the power cord isn’t very long when you compare it to uprights, but other canister vacuums have similar cord lengths, but remember that it has cord rewind, which is a factor of the short cord length.
Where can I buy this?
You can buy the Miele C3 from online stores like Amazon and Walmart. However, Amazon has more of the options available than Walmart.
Take note all C3 variants have the same motor. The difference lies in the tools that come with it. All these will come with the 2-day free shipping if you join Prime.
Check the links below for the latest prices.
- C3 Complete Alize on Amazon and Walmart
- C3 Calima on Amazon
- Miele C3 Cat & Dog on Amazon and Walmart
- C3 Kona on Amazon
- C3 Marin on Amazon
- Miele C3 Brilliant on Amazon
Disclaimer: Please note that if you buy from any of the links above, I’ll earn a commission, but at no extra cost to you. So it’s a win-win for both of use.
The Verdict: Pricey But Great for Cleaning Carpets
The Miele C3 may be a pricey option. Still, for the consumer who has respiratory concerns, this is an excellent investment because of the sealed system that comes with HEPA filtration (this would depend on the variant).
Whether your home has mostly bare floor or plush carpet, the C3 will have a variant just for you. Just read the feature list carefully before pressing that buy button on Amazon.
Some variants will come with deep cleaning floor tools that will agitate and deep clean carpet. Make sure to choose the variant right for you carefully.
What I don’t like is the price and the short power cord that limits the reach.
People who have severe allergic conditions will benefit from a product like this.
Not only will it clean bare floor or carpet, but it also makes sure that the allergens it picks up stay inside the bag.
It is expensive, but it will last for more than ten years! So consider this an investment.
Even if the bags are expensive, it does hold a lot of dirt.
