I'm also from the US, and the claim that "vacuums are only used for carpeted floors" is completely contrary to my experience--which is that 'Muricans are so attached to their vacuum cleaners that they seek out complicated models or special-purpose vacuums to clean every surface known to mankind--even for situations where a plain old broom and dustpan would be more efficient.
There are vacuum cleaners especially designs for bare floors, such as this one:
"Vacuum, wash and dry your hard floors with one easy bagless vacuum cleaner. Only the Hoover FloorMate has patented SpinScrub brushes to get your floors hands-and-knees clean. Use Hoover hard floor cleaners on all types of hard surfaces including hardwood, tile, linoleum and concrete"
http://www.hoover.com/productcategory.aspx?use=44&ds=trueGeneral purpose vacuums are usually equipped with attachments and features that also enable their use on bare floors (adjustable height, special attachments, or in the case of mine, a switch that allows you to turn off the roller brush as well).
"Parquet floor brush is included to thoroughly but gently clean wood and tile floors."
http://www.bestvacuum.com/miele-earth.html?s=froogleAnd here are some instructions on cleaning tile floors:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2038169_clean-tile-floors.htmlRidding the Floor of Surface Dirt
Step1
Sweep the loose dirt into a pile and remove.
Step2
Use vacuum attachment along the bottom of the baseboard and flooring.
Step3
Move the surface cleaner of the vacuum to the lowest setting and vacuum the tile.