In the hunt for the perfect vacuum? We all know the struggle. You spend ages cleaning your home, but pesky dirt and dust always seem to linger. Whether you’re battling pet hair, battling allergens, or simply tired of lugging around a clunky machine, there’s a perfect vacuum cleaner out there waiting to make your life easier.
This guide covers everything about vacuums, from types to features. We’ll help you choose from cordless, uprights, wet/dry, and even robot vacuums. Get ready to find the perfect cleaning buddy for your needs and budget, but before that, make sure you check these factors!
- Floor Expertise: Tailor your choice to your primary floor type. Upright vacuums, which often have rotating brush heads running over 3,000 RPM, are suited for deep-cleaning carpets, especially those thicker than ½ inch. For hard floors and delicate surfaces, opt for canister vacuums with adjustable suction up to 18 air watts (AW) to prevent scratches and ensure thorough cleaning.
- Pet Performance: For homes with pets, choose a vacuum with strong suction, over 150 air watts (AW), capable of lifting embedded pet hair from carpets. Look for models with HEPA filters to trap allergens down to 0.3 microns, enhancing indoor air quality. A vacuum with a specialized pet hair attachment can greatly improve your ability to clean upholstery and furniture.
- Lifestyle Efficiency: Align your vacuum choice with your budget and cleaning routine. Cordless vacuums offer great flexibility and are ideal for quick cleanups and reaching difficult spots, though they may run only 20 to 40 minutes per charge. Corded vacuums, on the other hand, provide more power (sometimes over 1,200 watts) and longer use times, typically at a lower cost, but may restrict movement due to the cord.
Best Vacuum Cleaners – Quick Comparison
| Best Vacuum Cleaners | Specialized Functions | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| Dyson Vacuum Cleaner | Whole-machine filtration, Pet hair specialist | Check On Amazon |
| Tineco Vacuum Cleaner | Self-cleaning cycle, Water recovery system | Check On Amazon |
| eufy Vacuum Cleaner | Smart dynamic navigation, Auto-recharging | Check On Amazon |
| Shark Vacuum Cleaner | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, HEPA filter | Check On Amazon |
| Hoover Commercial Vacuum Cleaner | Designed for commercial use, Easy maintenance | Check On Amazon |
| Bissell Vacuum Cleaner | Multi-surface cleaning, Compact storage | Check On Amazon |
| Lefant Robot Vacuum Cleaner | Smart app & voice control, Anti-collision sensors | Check On Amazon |
| Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum | Washable filtration system, Easy-empty dust cup | Check On Amazon |
| Dirt Devil Vacuum Cleaner | Bagless, Washable filter, Easy-empty dirt cup | Check On Amazon |
What Are The Best Vacuum Cleaners?
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 is a top pick, but many other brands offer great vacuum cleaners too. This list includes stick vacuums, robots, and more. Explore our recommendations and choose the right product for you.
1. Dyson Vacuum Cleaner
Ranked at the top of our best vacuums list, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 is a must-have. We were impressed by its performance during testing, much like the V8 cordless vacuum. Known for its strong suction, it’s great for pet owners. The Motorbar™ cleaner head automatically removes pet hair, ensuring uninterrupted cleaning.
Its ball technology makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and obstacles. With three cleaning modes, it’s versatile on any surface. However, its weight might be a concern for some users, impacting ease of use during longer cleaning sessions.
Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Weight: 17.33 Pounds
- Surface Recommendation: All floors
- Filter Type: Washable
- Design: Upright, Bagless
- Suction Power: Strong with De-tangling Motorbar™
- Special Features: Whole-machine filtration, Ball technology
- Included Components: Combination tool, Stair tool, Tool holder
- Cleaning Modes: 3 adjustable settings
- Capacity: Large dust bin
Pros:
- Exceptional suction power ideal for pet owners.
- Advanced whole-machine filtration traps allergens.
- Motorbar™ head prevents hair from wrapping around the brush.
- Versatile cleaning modes adjust to different floor types.
- Maneuverable design with ball technology.
Cons:
- Heavier than some competing models.
- Higher price point.
- Requires manual adjustment when switching modes.
- Not as quiet as some other vacuums.
- Bulkier design may be harder to store.
2. Tineco Vacuum Cleaner
Compared to Dyson, Tineco is another trusted brand. Their iFLOOR 3 is a standout option. It’s a cordless machine that can vacuum and mop floors at the same time, which is great for homes with hard floors like tile, hardwood, or laminate.
Being cordless means you can move around freely without worrying about cords or outlets. Plus, it’s lightweight and moves on its own, making cleaning less tiring. The storage dock even cleans the brush and tubes automatically, which is convenient. However, the battery only lasts about 25 minutes, which might not be enough for big homes. And you might need to refill the water tank often during long cleaning sessions.
Specifications:
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Weight: 9.3 Pounds
- Surface Recommendation: Hard Floor, Hardwoods, Laminate, Multi-Surface
- Filter Type: Disk
- Battery Life: Approx. 25 Minutes
- Water Tank Capacity: Moderate
- Design: Cordless, Self-Propelled
- Special Features: Vacuum and Mop, Self-Cleaning Cycle
- Included Components: Roller Brushes, Cleaning Solution, Adapter, Storage Tray
Pros:
- Cordless design for easy movement around the house.
- Dual-functionality vacuums and mops simultaneously.
- Lightweight and self-propelled for user comfort.
- Self-cleaning storage dock maintains the device effortlessly.
- Effective on various hard floor types.
Cons:
- Limited battery life may not cover large areas on a single charge.
- Requires frequent refills of the water tank during heavy use.
- Suction power may be inadequate for deep cleaning carpets.
- Initial cost may be high compared to traditional vacuums.
- The self-cleaning function may leave residues requiring occasional manual cleaning.
3. eufy Vacuum Cleaner
The eufy 11S Max is known for being small and quiet, perfect for people who want a cleaning solution that won’t bother them. Its slim design lets it fit under most furniture easily, so it can clean everywhere. It has BoostIQ Technology, which adjusts how strong it sucks based on the surface it’s cleaning, so it always cleans well without needing you to change settings.
It can clean for up to 100 minutes on one charge, which is good for big houses. But it’s not perfect. It works best on hard floors and medium carpets, but might not do as well on really thick carpets or dark floors. And while it’s good for everyday dust and pet hair, it might struggle with big bits of dirt because it’s so small.
Specifications:
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Battery Life: Up to 100 Minutes
- Weight: 6 Pounds
- Surface Recommendation: Hard Floor, Tile, Medium Carpet
- Filter Type: High-Performance
- Design: Robot, Super-Thin
- Suction Power: BoostIQ Technology
- Special Features: Quiet Operation, Auto-Recharging
- Included Components: Remote Control, Charging Base, Cleaning Tool, Side Brushes
- Controller Type: Button Control
Pros:
- Ultra-thin design navigates under furniture effortlessly.
- Quiet operation, ideal for any time of day.
- BoostIQ technology optimizes cleaning efficiency.
- Long battery life covers large areas on a single charge.
- Automatic recharging ensures it’s always ready to clean.
Cons:
- Less effective on high-pile carpets.
- Can struggle with large debris.
- No advanced navigation system like mapping.
- Limited manual control options without Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Some users may prefer more frequent manual intervention for spot cleaning.
4. Shark Vacuum Cleaner
The Shark NV360 vacuum is great at sucking up dirt from carpets and floors. It’s easy to use because you can take off the canister to clean tricky spots. Plus, it’s good for people with allergies because it traps dust and allergens well. You can move it around easily, thanks to its swivel steering and ability to switch off the brush roll.
All in all, it’s a bit heavy, which might make it hard to move for some people. Also, the dust cup could be bigger to avoid having to empty it often during long cleaning sessions. Overall, it’s a solid vacuum with a few minor drawbacks.
Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Voltage: 100-120 Volts
- Weight: 16 Pounds
- Surface Recommendation: Carpet & Hard Floors
- Filter Type: HEPA
- Dust Cup Capacity: 0.9 Quarts
- Suction Settings: Multi-Surface
- Design: Upright with Detachable Canister
- Special Features: Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, Swivel Steering
- Included Components: Upholstery Tool, Crevice Tool
Pros:
- Powerful suction suitable for deep cleaning.
- Lift-Away functionality enhances cleaning flexibility.
- HEPA filtration traps allergens effectively.
- Versatile enough for multiple floor types.
- Swivel steering for excellent maneuverability.
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors, which may hinder some users.
- Requires frequent emptying of the dust cup during big jobs.
- Lacks a light feature which would help in darker areas.
- Can be noisy, especially on higher power settings.
- Initial setup and assembly might be complex for some users.
5. Hoover Commercial Vacuum Cleaner
This commercial vacuum cleaner from Hoover is made for busy places with lots of people coming and going, like offices, hotels, and schools. It’s tough and durable to handle daily cleaning tasks in large areas. It’s easy to keep up with maintenance thanks to its simple brushroll and belt system, which helps reduce downtime. Plus, it’s lightweight and has a long cord, so you can move it around easily from one room to another.
Although it works well on different types of floors, it’s mainly designed for commercial spaces. So, if you’re looking for something for a smaller home, it might be too much. It also doesn’t have some of the fancy features you might find in vacuums made specifically for homes.
Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Weight: 15 Pounds
- Surface Recommendation: Carpet, Wooden Floor, Laminate Floor, Bare Floor, Tile Floor
- Filter Type: HEPA
- Design: Upright, Bagless
- Suction Power: Strong for commercial use
- Special Features: Long cord, Lightweight, Easy maintenance
- Included Components: Wand, Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush, Hepa Filter
- Cord Length: 35 Feet
- Maintenance: Easy-change brushroll and belt
Pros:
- Durable construction ideal for commercial use.
- Powerful suction handles a wide range of debris.
- Long cord enhances cleaning range without unplugging.
- Lightweight for easy transport across large areas.
- HEPA filtration captures fine particles and allergens.
Cons:
- May be too bulky for home use.
- Utilitarian design not as aesthetically pleasing.
- Lacks advanced features like automatic settings.
- Not optimal for high-pile residential carpets.
- Can be noisy during operation.
6. Bissell Vacuum Cleaner
For those seeking a 3-in-1 cleaning solution, the Bissell Vacuum Cleaner is a top choice. It’s great for quick cleanups on various surfaces, serving as a stick, hand, and stair vacuum. This versatility makes it perfect for homes with different flooring types
What sets this model apart is its adaptability. It comes with a crevice tool for furniture and a floor nozzle for stairs, making it handy for various tasks. Plus, switching between its different forms is easy, making cleaning a breeze. However, it might struggle a bit on heavier carpets because of its moderate suction power compared to larger vacuums.
Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Weight: 5 Pounds
- Surface Recommendation: Hard Floors, Low Pile Carpet
- Suction Settings: 3 Levels
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.67 Liter
- Power Cord Length: 15 Feet
- Design: Stick, Hand, and Stair Vacuum
- Special Features: Lightweight, Bagless, Versatile Cleaning Tools
- Filter Type: Standard
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly portable.
- Versatile with three distinct functional modes.
- Effective on various surface types.
- Easy to switch between configurations.
- Compact design makes it easy to store.
Cons:
- Limited effectiveness on thick carpets.
- Shorter power cord than some competitors.
- Dirt cup fills quickly and needs frequent emptying.
- Basic filter type, not ideal for those with allergies.
- Could benefit from more robust construction.
7. Lefant Robot Vacuum Cleaner
The Lefant Robot Vacuum Cleaner is perfect for pet owners because it’s small enough to fit under furniture and avoids obstacles on its own. Its suction port is impressive, especially for pet hair, and it operates quietly. You can control it with a smart app, which is handy for scheduling cleanings.
But it does have some drawbacks. It might not handle big messes or thick carpets well because its suction isn’t super strong. And in bigger homes, you might need to recharge it during cleaning, which could be annoying.
Specifications:
- Surface Recommendation: Wood, Hard Floor, and Low Pile Carpet
- Battery Cell Composition: Lithium Ion
- Weight: 3.03 Kilograms
- Special Feature: Scheduling, Anti-Fall, Pet Hair Pick Up, Obstacle Avoidance, Auto-Docking
- Controller Type: App Control
- Design: Compact, Low-Profile
- Filter Type: Standard
- Smart Features: App connectivity, Voice Control via Alexa or Google Assistant
- Cleaning Modes: Auto, Spot, Edge, Zigzag, Scheduled, Manual
- Dustbin Capacity: Moderate
Pros:
- Excellent at navigating around obstacles and under furniture.
- Smart app and voice control features enhance usability.
- Brushless suction is ideal for pet hair pickup.
- Quiet operation, suitable for homes with pets and children.
- Lightweight and easy to move across different floor types.
Cons:
- Suction power may be insufficient for heavy cleaning tasks.
- Battery life limits extensive uninterrupted cleaning sessions.
- Lacks effectiveness on high-pile carpets.
- Frequent emptying of the dustbin may be necessary.
- Some users report connectivity issues with the app.
8. Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum
Eureka is highly rated online, but when we tested it, we weren’t impressed. Maybe it’s just hype. But what’s good about this corded stick vacuum? It’s versatile and lightweight, weighing only 4 pounds, making it easy to move around for quick clean-ups in different parts of your home. It can also be used as a handheld for smaller messes or tight spaces, and its swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver.
Despite its small size, it has enough suction power for its category, thanks to a powerful 2 amp motor. It works well on various surfaces, from hard floors to upholstery, for light to medium cleaning tasks. However, there are drawbacks. Its corded design limits movement to the length of its 18-foot cord, and it lacks the suction power for deep carpet cleaning, making it less suitable for large or heavily carpeted homes.
Specifications:
- Weight: 4 Pounds
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Filter Type: Washable HEPA
- Cord Length: 18 Feet
- Dust Cup: X-Large
- Motor: 2 Amp
- Design: 3-in-1 Stick, Handheld
- Surface Recommendation: Hard Floor, Carpet, Upholstery
- Special Features: Lightweight, Swivel Steering, Washable Filter
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to handle.
- Versatile 3-in-1 design.
- Effective on multiple surfaces.
- Swivel steering enhances maneuverability.
- Washable filtration system improves air quality.
Cons:
- Corded design limits range of movement.
- Not suitable as the primary vacuum for large homes.
- Power cord could be longer.
- Lacks suction power for deep cleaning on thick carpets.
- Does not stand upright on its own, requiring support.
9. Dirt Devil Vacuum Cleaner
For those in need of a lightweight vacuum, the Dirt Devil Vacuum Cleaner stands out. Its compact design makes it perfect for small homes or as a quick cleanup option. Operating it is simple without any complicated settings or attachments.
This vacuum offers decent suction power for its size and price, suitable for daily use on hard floors and low-pile carpets. It comes with essential tools like a crevice tool and dusting brush for cleaning tight spots and above-floor surfaces. However, there are drawbacks to consider. Its lightweight build means it might not be as durable for heavy-duty cleaning as pricier models. Additionally, its basic filtration system may not be ideal for allergy sufferers or pet owners.
Specifications:
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Weight: 9 Pounds
- Surface Recommendation: Hard Floor, Carpet
- Filter Type: Washable Foam
- Design: Lightweight, Compact
- Suction Power: Adequate for light to medium tasks
- Special Features: Bagless, Easy-Empty Dirt Cup
- Included Components: Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush
- Cleaning Reach: Extended with quick-release extension wand
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Simple operation suitable for all users.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible.
- Compact size is ideal for small storage spaces.
- Washable filter helps reduce ongoing costs.
Cons:
- Not suited for heavy-duty cleaning.
- Filtration system may not be adequate for allergy sufferers.
- Durability concerns with frequent use.
- Limited effectiveness on thicker carpets.
- Basic features may not satisfy all home cleaning needs.
Vacuum Cleaners Buying Guide
Consider Your Needs
- Flooring: Think about the main floor types in your home (carpet, hardwood, tile, etc.). Different vacuums excel on various surfaces.
- Pets: Do you have furry friends? Pet hair requires a vacuum with strong suction and a good filter.
- Lifestyle: If you live in a busy household, a cordless, lightweight vacuum might be ideal.
- Budget: Vacuums range from budget-friendly models to feature-packed machines. Decide how much you’re comfortable spending.
Know Your Vacuum Types
- Upright Vacuums: Classic and powerful, good for carpets and hard floors.
- Canister Vacuums: Offer superior maneuverability and are great for above-ground cleaning.
- Stick Vacuums: Cordless and lightweight, ideal for quick cleanups and hard floors.
- Robot Vacuums: Set it and forget it! Perfect for hands-free cleaning, especially for hard floors.
Top Features to Consider
- Suction Power: Stronger suction tackles deep dirt and pet hair.
- Filtration: HEPA filters trap allergens and improve indoor air quality.
- Cordless vs. Corded: Cordless offers freedom, corded provides consistent power.
- Weight: For easier maneuverability, consider a lightweight vacuum.
- Attachments: Extra tools like a crevice tool or upholstery attachment can increase versatility.
Explore Popular Brands
- Dyson: Renowned for powerful suction and innovative technology.
- Shark: Known for feature-rich vacuums at competitive prices.
- Roomba: A leading name in robot vacuums, offering various models.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best vacuum cleaner depends on your specific needs. For overall performance including pet hair removal, advanced features, and adaptability, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum Cleaner is highly recommended. It scores the highest in versatility and durability among the models reviewed.
Dyson is renowned for its innovative designs and strong suction capabilities, making it a top choice in our reviews. However, brands like Shark and Tineco also offer competitive models with unique features suitable for various cleaning needs.
For carpet cleaning, Hoover stands out, especially with its Hoover Commercial Vacuum Cleaner, designed to handle high traffic areas and deep clean carpets effectively.
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum Cleaner is specially designed for pet owners, featuring a de-tangling Motorbar™ cleaner head that automatically clears wrapped hair from the brush bar.
For general home use, the eufy 11S Max Robot Vacuum Cleaner offers a balance of performance, convenience, and quiet operation, making it ideal for daily cleaning without disrupting household activities.
Prices vary widely based on features and brands. It’s advisable to check major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy, especially during sales events such as Black Friday or back-to-school seasons for the best deals.
Vacuuming daily is advisable for high-traffic areas or if you have allergies, pets, or children who bring in more dirt. It keeps your environment clean and allergens at bay.
For most households, vacuuming at least twice a week is sufficient. However, this can vary based on the size of your home, the presence of pets, and personal cleanliness preferences.
The Shark NV360 Vacuum Cleaner offers excellent versatility with features that allow easy transition between different floor types, including carpets and hard floors.
Yes, vacuum cleaners can be recycled. Check with your local waste management facilities for electronics recycling programs, or contact the manufacturer to see if they offer take-back programs.
Conclusion
So, after all that vacuum talk, there’s definitely a clean machine out there for everyone, from pet hair ninjas to carpet kings. Think we helped you sniff out your perfect match?
