Three years ago, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hollywood star George Clooney revealed on Jimmy Kimmel Live that he had been cutting his own hair for years using the Flowbee. This retro vacuum haircut tool, once seen as a quirky infomercial gadget, suddenly became a hot topic again.
As salons closed, more people turned to DIY haircuts, and vacuum haircut tools gained renewed interest. But now, with life returning to normal, the question is: Is the trend of vacuum haircuts still going strong? And if so, what are the best options available today for at-home grooming?
In this article, we’ll compare two of the top vacuum haircut systems—Flowbee and Remington—to see how they stack up for home use. We’ll also discuss the key features of each product and help you decide which one is best for you.
The Return of Vacuum Haircuts
Vacuum haircut systems combine a traditional clipper or trimmer with a vacuum attachment that sucks up the hair as it’s cut. This leaves you with a cleaner experience, avoiding the mess of hair clippings all over your bathroom or living room floor. The idea of keeping your space clean while getting a professional-quality trim appeals to many DIY groomers.
Although demand for vacuum haircut systems surged during lockdowns, they haven’t completely faded from popularity. Convenience and ease of use remain key selling points, especially for those looking to cut down on trips to the barber. Plus, modern vacuum haircut tools have improved in terms of design, power, and functionality, making them more appealing even today.
Flowbee: The Classic Vacuum Haircut System
The Flowbee, originally introduced in the late 1980s, experienced a resurgence after Clooney’s public endorsement. Known for its retro design and simplicity, the Flowbee attaches to any standard vacuum cleaner to suck up hair while trimming. The adjustable spacer system allows for a range of lengths, making it versatile for different styles.
Key Features
- Attaches to any standard vacuum: The Flowbee connects directly to your household vacuum cleaner, providing powerful suction.
- Adjustable spacers: Allows you to customize the length of your haircut with precision.
- Lightweight design: Easy to handle for a smooth and consistent cut.
Pros: The Flowbee is reliable, easy to use, and delivers consistent results for basic cuts. It’s also compatible with most vacuum cleaners, making it an affordable solution for those already owning a vacuum.
Cons: The Flowbee is not cordless, meaning you’ll need to deal with the limitations of a vacuum cord, which could restrict mobility. Additionally, while it’s excellent for straightforward haircuts, it lacks some of the advanced features of more modern grooming systems.
Remington: The Modern Contender
The Remington Vacuum Haircut Kit is a more advanced tool designed with dual motor power—one for the clipper and another for vacuum suction. This kit comes with a removable hair chamber, making it easy to clean and maintain after each use. Unlike Flowbee, the Remington system doesn’t require an external vacuum cleaner, as the vacuum component is built into the trimmer itself.
Key Features
- Cordless and rechargeable: Allows for greater mobility without being tethered to a power cord or vacuum.
- Built-in vacuum: The vacuum is integrated into the trimmer, with a removable hair chamber for easy cleaning.
- Dual motor technology: One motor powers the clipper while the other operates the vacuum, offering strong performance for both functions.
- Multiple length attachments: Comes with various combs to achieve different hair lengths and styles.
Pros: The Remington kit is cordless, offering more flexibility during use. It also includes multiple attachment combs for varying lengths, allowing for more detailed haircuts. The built-in vacuum chamber is easy to empty and helps keep your space tidy.
Cons: While the vacuum power is strong, some users may find Remington less efficient than Flowbee’s attachment to a household vacuum. It also tends to be bulkier compared to traditional clippers.
Flowbee vs. Remington: Which is Better?
Both the Flowbee and Remington Vacuum Haircut Kit offer unique benefits depending on your needs. Here’s how they compare:
- Ease of Use: Flowbee’s simplicity and attachment to a regular vacuum make it easy for straightforward cuts. However, Remington’s cordless feature makes it more flexible for more complex styles.
- Portability: Remington wins this round with its cordless design, making it ideal for those who want a quick and mobile haircut session.
- Vacuum Power: Flowbee‘s connection to a household vacuum gives it superior suction power, while Remington’s built-in vacuum is less powerful but sufficient for small to medium messes.
- Maintenance: Both systems are easy to clean, but Remington’s removable hair chamber offers a more modern, user-friendly design.
Who Should Choose Flowbee?
- If you already own a compatible vacuum cleaner.
- If you prefer a reliable, time-tested device that delivers consistent results for simple haircuts.
- If you’re looking for a tool that lasts long-term.
Who Should Choose Remington?
- If you want the flexibility of a cordless system.
- If you don’t have a vacuum at home and need an all-in-one solution.
- If you want more versatility for detailed and varied hairstyles.
Conclusion: Is a Vacuum Haircut for You?
Vacuum haircuts may have peaked during the pandemic, but they’re still a viable option for those seeking a clean, mess-free trim at home. Whether you choose the retro Flowbee or the more modern Remington, both systems offer excellent convenience and value. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your needs: if mobility and versatility are priorities, Remington may be the better fit, but for a simple, reliable trim with superior suction, Flowbee remains a top contender.
