Best Vacuum/steam cleaner? I need to buy a great vacuum/steam cleaner for my home...

I need to buy a great vacuum/steam cleaner for my home carpet. I do not want to have to clutch out a mortgage to buy it, either! Please comfort me from your own personal experience!
Can I electrical device dust a sweater that...
Answers:    The best steam cleaners are the ones you rent. You can rent steam cleaners from Home supply centers (home depot, lowes', etc. for $25/day.)

The best vacuum is (IMHO) Eureka Boss SmartVac for pet hair. I love that vacuum. Before I have pets I loved my Oreck. The Oreck doesn't do a great job next to pet hair, but does great at cleaning runner and hard floors.

I bought my Oreck from www.jondon.com for $219 (shipping included.) The Eureka be $148 at Sears'.