Best Vacuum Cleaner

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Updated Nov 14, 2023 10:02 PM
best vacuum cleaner guide that shows the top best vacuum cleaner model

When choosing the best vacuum cleaners for your home, we narrowed down our top picks based on the following factors: suction power, brushes for a variety of floors types (carpet in particular but also bare floors as well), bag vs canister, warranties, and of course customer sentiment. We also included some robotic options and some of the most trusted brands that have proven to work for an extended period of time with no loss of suction or efficacy.

This is why our top pick is the Shark Navigator, a model that combines lightweight maneuverability with power. It’s also easily convertible into a hose-based handheld model for hard-to-reach places while retaining its spacious 2.2-quart debris canister. That makes this vac ideal for the average home – but make sure to check out our other big picks for other vacuum cleaner solutions!

Top 7 Best Vacuum Cleaners

 #1  Shark Navigator Vacuum Cleaner

Award: TOP PICK

WHY WE LIKE IT: This Shark is an amazing upright vacuum with top-notch filtration and an incredibly useful handheld conversion feature. It’s the best pick for tackling every mess a house has to offer. For more great products like this, visit our guide to the best upright vacuum cleaner.

Read Full Review: Shark Navigator Vacuum Cleaner Review

Pros
  • Best upright & HEPA filtration
  • Conversion to handheld model
  • 2.2-quart canister
Cons
  • Handheld version is a little awkward

The best upright vacuum we’ve found, the 13.7-pound Navigator is especially easy to handle, with “swivel steering” that allows it to go nearly anywhere with just a twist, and a brush roll shut-off options for more delicate floors. It carries a canister with 2.2 quarts of space (more than most) and an excellent HEPA filter for trapping almost all the dust the vac brings in. Everything about this vac is designed for great performance in the home.

It’s also a convertible model: You can remove the canister and hose at any time for a handheld option that makes it much easier to reach high surfaces in the middle of vacuuming. With all these capabilities, there’s not much the Navigator can’t handle, making it the best upright vacuum cleaner we’ve found. Speaking of a clean floor, the best carpet cleaner detergent is a must.

 #2  Eureka PowerSpeed Lite Vacuum Cleaner

Award: HONORABLE MENTION

WHY WE LIKE IT: This adjustable vac can be prepped for any type of surface (5 height adjustment), and comes with accessories to manage any situation – while still being lightweight. We especially like the extra-large 4.1L capacity of this model, making it easier to clean the whole house in one session.

Read Full Review: Eureka PowerSpeed Lite Review

Pros
  • Best on a budget
  • 5 adjustable heights
  • Lightweight 10 pound vac
Cons
  • Lacks the power of other picks

With five height adjustable, this upright can be adjusted for all kinds of surfaces, making it the best vacuum cleaner for hardwood or stone floors – and the smooth wheels ensure there’s no danger of scratches. Despite being a very light 10 pounds, the vac also includes a variety of accessories including a dusting brush with a 7-inch reach (nice for drapes), fabric tool, and more.

The canister on this vac is also one of the largest on our list at 4.1 liters, easily enough to deal with a room’s worth of dust. And thanks to the 12.6-inch width brush head, you can clean flat spaces quickly while still trapping dirt. The 25-foot cord can also easily handle even larger rooms around your home. You may also want the best carpet cleaner for your floors.

 #3  iRobot Roomba 980 Robot Vacuum

Read Full Review: iRobot Roomba 980 Review

Pros
  • Excellent efficacy on carpet and great for hardwood
  • Easy setup and controls
  • Maps the room to learn
Cons
  • Expensive

WHY WE LIKE IT:  This is one of iRobot’s top of the line robotic vacuums that boasts many of the bells and whistles, including smart connectivity allowing you to access and control the Roomba 980 from your Android or iOS device. It does an amazing job cleaning carpet and hardwood, can detect stairs, and has an excellent run time.

To a large degree, the iRobot Roomba 980 looks like every other Roomba. Which is to say it sports their familiar hockey puck shape. However, unlike the lesser models (below the 960) the 980 sports a camera that maps out the room, allowing it to develop a log of visual landmarks and thus improve cleaning for next time. In short this means less bumping and more cleaning.

There are a few other sensors on board, including one to detect a ledge (aka cliff detection) and one to detect the presence of carpet, where upon the iRobot Roomba 980 will increase its suction power (“Dirt Detect™ Series II5 uses optical and acoustic sensors to detect high concentrations of dirt, dust and pet hair, and the robot then provides focused cleaning where it’s most needed”).

 #4  Bissell Cleanview Vacuum Cleaner

Award: BEST EXTRA WIDE CLEANING PATH

WHY WE LIKE IT: This affordable vacuum cleaner includes technology for picking more debris up in one pass and plenty of on-board accessories for different projects. Add in the extra-wide cleaning path, and it’s one of the best vacs for getting projects done quickly.

Read Full Review: Bissell Cleanview Review

Pros
  • Easy to empty canister
  • Wide 13.5-inch cleaning path
  • Great onboard accessories
Cons
  • Capacity is a bit low at 1 liter
  • One of the heavier vacs on our list

One of the best bagless vacuum cleaner models around, the Cleanview is full of special features to make vacuuming easier on you. The “OnePass” design focuses on excellent suction to average dirt gets picked up easily. The “Scatter Free” tech makes it easier to trap debris on flat surfaces, too. It also has a particularly large 13.5-inch cleaning path to get jobs done more quickly.

On board, you’ll also find a number of handy tools stored away (4 in total), including a crevice tool, a dusting brush, and even a “turbobrush” for tougher furniture messes. The multi-level filtration system isn’t HEPA, but it does help trap more dust and is easily washable between projects. The best floor cleaner keeps your home healthier.

 #5  Dyson Animal 2 Vacuum Cleaner

Award: BEST FOR PET HAIR

WHY WE LIKE IT: Dyson designed this vacuum to be one of the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair, with incredibly powerful suction and a dedicated turbine tool for pet hair. Pet owners and everyone else looking for fast results will love this vac.

Read Full Review: Dyson Animal 2 Review

Pros
  • Best power and suction
  • Self-adjusting cleaner head
  • HEPA filtration
Cons
  • Not everyone needs this much power

If you’re looking for sheer power, this Dyson vacuum cleaner will provide all the suction you need, with a self-adjusting head that can immediately adapt to any surface, including carpet, wood, and tile. The Animal 2 is well named, too: The excellent turbine tool is designed to pick up pet hair without getting into tangles, and the HEPA-like filtration and sealing trap pet allergens effectively. If you’d prefer another vacuum to pull out allergens and dirt from your carpets, then check out our guide to the best vacuum cleaner for carpets.

Dyson’s trademark ball-shaped design keeps the vacuum very mobile too, which is great for cleaning dust bunnies around chairs and other obstacles. The half-gallon canister can hold all kinds of debris and offers quick one-click emptying over a trash can so you can get back to work. This and the best mop make a home clean.

 #6  Hoover Linx Vacuum Cleaner

Award: BEST CORDLESS

WHY WE LIKE IT: This cordless vac with a low profile can fit nearly anywhere and saves a ton of time on smaller cleaning projects. It’s the ideal choice for those with smaller homes!

Read Full Review: Hoover Linx Review

Pros
  • Lightweight & low-profile
  • Easy-read battery meter
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Battery life is short
  • 10 pounds is heavy for a cordless vac

One of the best cordless vacuums we’ve reviewed, the Lynx has a better range and convenience. Plus, models like this Linx pick have extra-low profiles for getting around objects. The vac functions with a removable lithium-ion battery that you charge between projects. There’s a battery meter right on the front of the vac to let you know how much charge is left: To make the most of the battery charge, Hoover has what it calls “Windfunnel” technology, which is a tightly sealed, well-designed containment system designed to increase suction so you’re ready for bigger messes.

Of course, a cordless vacuum is dependent on its battery for performance, which means they are designed for faster cleaning of smaller areas. The Lynx battery only lasts 15 minutes or so before needing a recharge, so be prepared to be speedy. Speaking of speed, clean your carpets quickly and keep it free of pet hair with our best pet vacuum.

 #7  Anker Eufy RoboVac Vacuum Cleaner

We’re sorry, this product is temporarily out of stock

Award: BEST FOR AUTO CLEANING

WHY WE LIKE IT: This affordable robot vac is smart enough to clean a whole room, adjust power based on the surface, and avoid falls. It’s the smart vac helper that your house has been waiting for!

Read Full Review: Anker Eufy RoboVac Review

Pros
  • Up to 100 minutes per charge
  • Automatic power adjustments
  • Triple filtration
Cons
  • Can’t fully replace manual vacuuming

If you want a robot vac to help keep your house faithfully clean, this model is one of the best choices for the average homeowner. far more affordable than the average robot vac but still loaded with smart features.

The vac can clean for up to 100 minutes on the average hardware floor before needing to recharge, using four side brushes and suction power to get rid of messes. If it detects debris that needs extra handling, it can increase suction for a couple of seconds to get rid of it or adjust suction when moving onto carpet. The slim design is also great for getting under furniture.

 #8  Oreck Commercial Vacuum Cleaner

Award: BEST FOR CARPET

WHY WE LIKE IT: This bagged vacuum has an excellent brush roll for digging down into the carpet, and the bagged design means you don’t have to stop to empty any canisters. It’s an especially great choice for larger areas and multi-floor homes thanks to its lightweight build that doesn’t compromise on suction.

Read Full ReviewOreck Commercial Review

Pros
  • Lightweight, so great for multi-floor homes
  • Auto-adjust for height
  • Excellent suction
Cons
  • Higher profile than other picks
  • Bagged vacs aren’t for everyone

Bagged vacuums aren’t as common these days, but this Oreck vac shows just how useful they can still be. The bag makes it easy to clean without worrying about scattering dust or frequently emptying canisters. Plus, the double helix brushes and powerful brush roll action are ideal for dealing with dirty carpets. If you need to switch to hard surfaces, the vac will automatically adjust to the new height.

At 9 pounds, it’s also the lightest bagged vacuum we’ve ever seen. The 35-foot cord is also one of the longest we’ve seen, which is one reason this vac is good at cleaning larger commercial spaces. But it can still be a great fit for the average home, too!

Best Vacuum Cleaner

Beginner’s Guide To Vacuum Cleaners

There are few households today that don’t include a vacuum cleaner or other floor cleaners as part of their cleaning routine. Although it may seem like a modern invention, you may be surprised to learn that this commonplace machine has been around in one form or another for well over 100 years, having been first invented in the 19th Century during the Industrial Revolution. Keep reading to learn more about vacuums cleaners and discover how to buy a vacuum.

What Is A Vacuum Cleaner?

Since the invention of the first carpet sweeper in 1860 by Daniel Hess, the vacuum cleaner has taken many forms over the years. The very first models included manually rotating brushes and a bellows or fan that created some amount of suction, and there were even a few versions that ran on gasoline. It wasn’t until 1905 that inventors began to create devices that started to resemble, if vaguely, the machine we know so well today. Modern vacuums use negative pressure to pull dirt and other debris from upholstery and flooring into an intake port, where it is collected either in a disposable bag or a reusable dust cup.

How A Vacuum Cleaner Operates

vacuum parts diagram
©2006 PUBLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL, LTD.

Just how a vacuum cleaner works is a relatively simple process. In a nutshell, a vacuum cleaner helps keep our homes clean via the use of various parts that work together to create negative pressure. The resulting vortex creates suction that pulls dust, pet hair, and other debris into the mouth of the unit.

Some models use a beater bar or other brush roll to dislodge particles from carpet or upholstery. It’s this combination of simple physics and precise engineering that makes it so easy to keep modern homes fresh and clean!

The Internal Components Of A Vacuum Cleaner

The most important parts of any vacuum cleaner are the motor, internal fan, dust container, intake port, its various controls and switches, and exhaust port. As mentioned, some models use a beater bar or brush, but neither of these are necessary for the vacuum cleaner’s operation, and several units do not incorporate them.

Insider Tip

Why Are Vacuums So Noisy?The main reasons why vacuums are loud and noisy are because of the change in air pressure caused by the unit’s suction, the noise created by the operation of the motor and fan, and the resulting vibration of the vacuum’s exterior casing. Most vacuums produce around 70 decibels of sound.

Is It Worth Buying A New Vacuum Model With The Latest Technology?

Most people already own a vacuum. So with that in mind, the best question isn’t if you should buy a new vacuum but if it’s a justifiable expense to replace your existing model. If you’re looking for a superior cleaning experience, a vacuum with the latest technology is absolutely worth it.

Vacuum cleaners have come a long way from their humble roots as giant, horse-drawn machines. These days, high-tech models come with features like Bluetooth, incredible motor power, excellent filtration methods (such as HEPA), and low noise levels. But while they’re worth the hype, all those bells and whistles will cost you. This brings us to our next point: robot vacuums.

Are Robot Vacuums Better Than Regular Vacuums?

Robot vacuums are an excellent option, provided your house isn’t too large or you can afford multiple units. Why? They operate on battery power and have a top-end to how much square footage they can cover. Though, many units now have a self-emptying system and are intelligent enough to return to their base station to recharge. Once recharged, they can pick up (pun intended) where they left off. Of course, how long a robot vacuum lasts isn’t quite as long as other vacuums.

STAT: – There were 14.2 million American households with a robotic vacuum cleaner in 2019, which was an increase of 1.2 million from the year before (Source)

Are HEPA Filter Vacuums Better Than Regular Vacuums? – (Jump Link)

The quick answer is yes, they are better, better at filtering out airborne contaminants. However, according to Molekule, if the frame or fit and finish (the build quality) of the filter isn’t mounted or sealed properly, it can negate the positive effects of the HEPA filter and, in turn, do more harm than good. So, it’s important to make sure you do your homework before you purchase a HEPA vacuum. Moreover, since HEPA vacuums are more expensive than their traditional counterparts, make sure that the added cost is justifiable given your circumstance.

Choosing The Best Vacuum For Your Home

Now that you’ve got a pretty good grasp of how vacuums work, it’s time to think about how to choose a vacuum cleaner. Fortunately, for the most part, it all boils down to your personal needs.

Step 1: What Type Of Home And Surfaces Do You Need To Clean?

This is perhaps the most important step in determining the correct vacuum for your home. While many vacuums are versatile enough to cover different floor types and home sizes, it’s important that you also consider other factors, such as pets and allergies. Keep reading to learn more.

If You Have A Smaller Home, Check Out Small Vacuums

  • Small vacuums are best for everyday cleaning in small spaces, like a studio apartment, or for spot cleaning individual rooms.
  • The best rated small vacuums offer portability and versatility, so you can clean tight spots more easily.

Decide If You Want To Vacuum Your Stairs

  • If you have carpeted stairs, you’ll want a model with extension wands and a crevice tool.
  • Consider a stair vacuum with built-in filtration and a true HEPA filter.
  • The best vacuum for stairs should also be portable while maintaining powerful suction.

Decide On The Maneuverability You Need

  • Do you have hard-to-reach places?
  • Is your living space cramped?
  • Are there tons of tiny crevices?

Insider Tip

Most types of vacuums last around 5 to 8 years, with brand and lifestyle making the most significant difference in lifespan.

Step 2: What Are Your Personal Needs While Vacuuming?

Fuzzy friends, allergies, and more are all things to consider when picking your next vacuum. HEPA vacuums may be important to you especially if you have allergies, but remember that they’re more costly than non-HEPA vacuums.

Consider A Vacuum For Allergies

  • The highest quality vacuum for allergies needs top-tier filtration and a true HEPA filter.
  • Look for a unit with high suction power to clear your floors of small particles.
  • Find a vacuum with multiple attachments and crevice tools to get dust from corners.

Check Out Quiet Vacuum Models

  • The highest rated quiet vacuums are lightweight, powerful, and incredibly versatile.
  • With noise levels lower than 70 decibels, these vacuum cleaners won’t disturb anyone else while you clean.

Do you own a pet? Remember If You Need To Vacuum Any Pet Hair

  • The best vacuum for pet hair needs pet-specific attachments to catch hair, dander, and dust.
  • Find a unit with thick bristle rollers to pull pet hair from your carpets.
  • Consider a pet vacuum with a powerful motor for maximum suction power.

Take Into Account Your Cleaning Schedule

  • How many visitors do you get? The more foot traffic the more often you’ll want to clean. To that end, you may want a cordless vacuum for quick jobs and clean-ups.
  • The above can be well complemented by a robot vacuum. This means you can opt to automatically clean when no one is home.

Step 3: Which Specific Type Of Vacuum Cleaner Is Best For You?

vacuum living room

Do You Need A Good Vacuum For Large Areas Of Carpet?

If you have a large area to clean, the best vacuum cleaner for carpets should have excellent suction power. You’ll also want extra attachments, modes for upholstery, and features like a HEPA filter for dust and allergens.

Consider An Upright Vacuum

  • The finest upright vacuums have fantastic features like lift-away handheld modes, specialized accessories, and HEPA filtration.
  • Find an upright vacuum with a large dust canister so you can save yourself trips to the trash can.
  • Upright vacuums have the most powerful suction which is important as debris and dirt can be difficult to lift out of thick carpet. However, they can get expensive.

STAT: – 68% of U.S. respondents said they would most likely purchase an upright vacuum from a 2018 survey regarding future vacuum purchases in the next 12 months. (Source)

Do You Need To Vacuum Furniture And Hard-To-Reach Places?

Hard-to-reach places harbor crumbs, dirt, dust, and more, which can attract pests and insects. Furniture is incredibly high-traffic and should be vacuumed once a week.

Consider Vacuums With A Canister Design

  • A great canister vacuum should be able to handle just about any type of flooring you throw at it.
  • An ideal canister vacuum will have a variety of suction settings and a multitude of attachments for upholstery and furniture.
  • Look for a canister vacuum with a long hose so you can reach higher places.

Do You Need A Sturdy Vacuum For A Workspace, Garage or One That Can Pick Up Water or Wet Debris?

Messes like those you’d find in a garage or workshop need a different approach than your typical living room carpet. Luckily, there’s a vacuum for that.

Consider Using A Shop Vac

  • The best shop vac is a specialized appliance that can handle a wide variety of materials.
  • They’re often used at construction sites and by other businesses, like car detailing companies.
  • Homeowners will find them useful for cleaning up dry messes like leaves and sawdust or even sucking up water from a broken pipe.
  • For a more in-depth explanation of what a shop vac is, check out our featured article.

Wet Dry Vac – Do You Want A Good Vacuum That Picks Up Wet and Dry Debris?

The best wet and dry vacs can make short work of messes that would otherwise require multiple tools to clean up. Unlike standard vacuum cleaners, wet-dry vacs work like shop vacs and can suck up liquid spills and wet debris. They also tend to be larger and slightly louder than a regular upright vacuum. To that end, wet dry vacs sometimes have more features than shop vacs and can be more suitable for home use.

wet dry vacuum

Do You Want A Vacuum With Good Filtration To Combat Allergies?

Allergies can be paralyzing in day-to-day life. Investing in an excellent HEPA vacuum can help reduce allergens and other airborne debris that irritate the lungs. Also, whether you choose a bagged or bagless vacuum will also make a difference.

Consider A HEPA Filter Vacuum if you…

  • Suffer from allergies
  • Have asthma
  • Want cleaner breathing air

Know The Differences Between HEPA Filter Vacuums And Regular Vacuums

  • HEPA filters vacuums are better at filtering allergens and particles than regular vacuum cleaners. In theory, they can remove “at least 99.97% of dust, pollen, mold, bacteria, and any airborne particles with a size of 0.3 microns (µm)” according to the EPA.
  • HEPA filters are proven to soothe symptoms from allergies and asthma.
  • Regular vacuums may release dust back into the air. Check out our featured article on what is a HEPA filter vacuum.

Compare Bagged And Bagless Vacuums

  • Bagless vacuums are more eco-friendly and might be more inexpensive long term. Why? You never have to purchase those one-time-use bags, which end up in a landfill.
  • Bagged vacuums, though, are likely cleaner as you throw away the bag and don’t empty its contents into a garbage can or rubbish bin. This makes them more allergy-friendly and hygienic.

Did You Know?

A HEPA filter can remove at least 99.97% of dust particles down to a size of 0.3 microns.

Do You Prefer A Lightweight Vacuum To Move Around Your Home Easily?

The best lightweight vacuum, whether a cordless stick vacuum or a bagless model, will provide all the convenience you need. These powerful vacuums are portable, making them easy to move from room to room.

Stick Vacuums

  • Stick vacuums are a versatile part of any cleaning arsenal.
  • To find a great stick vacuum, go with a unit that has a long-lasting battery.
  • Only look at cordless options as they will be more convenient.

Stick vs Upright Vacuums

  • Stick vacuums are highly maneuverable and are not as powerful as many other vacuum types. They’re best used for quicker jobs or for homes that are smaller in size.
  • When comparing upright vacuums to stick vacuums, uprights have far better suction power and will work on any type of floor, especially carpet. They’re much heavier and more cumbersome, though.

Consider A Small Handheld Vacuum

  • The best handheld vacuum is ideal for quick clean-ups and tidying hard-to-reach corners.
  • Find a handheld vacuum with a quick charge cycle so you don’t have to wait too long between cleanings.
  • Some “cordless stick vacuums” can also double as a handheld vacuum negating the need to purchase two machines.

cordless handheld vacuum

Do You Want A Cordless Vacuum For Easy Maneuverability?

The best cordless vacuums can add convenience to your cleaning routine and may be able to reach areas a plug-in vacuum can’t easily access. These models come in various configurations, including small handheld models, upright stick vacuums, and indoor/outdoor backpack vacuums.

Compare Cordless And Corded Vacuums First

  • Cordless vs corded models: cordless vacuums tend to lack excellent suction power.
  • Corded models are less maneuverable.
  • Cordless vacuums must be charged to clean.

Do You Hate Vacuuming And Want A Robot Vacuum?

Robot Vacuum

Although robot vacuums are becoming increasingly commonplace, there are a few key features you need to look for when it comes to selecting the highest rated robot vacuum to fit your needs. Look into models with features such as scheduling, a mobile app, edge or cliff detection, and a solid motor to power through dirt and grime.

STAT: – The average American spends up to 57 days of their life cleaning, which is about 26 minutes a week. (Source)

Step 4: Do You Want Additional Features On Your Vacuum?

The following list is some features you might want to consider when you purchase your next vacuum. Some will help you better narrow your choice of vacuum-based on your need or use case.

Look For Multi-Surface Vacuums With Bare Floor Settings

  • A top rated multi-surface vacuum provides all of the settings and suction power you need to clean any floor type.
  • These vacuums can easily clean hardwood floors, low- and high-pile carpets, and vinyl flooring.

Look For Carpet Pile Height Adjustment Settings

  • Higher-pile carpets are more difficult to clean due to their thick nature. So you’ll want a vacuum that can adjust accordingly.
  • If you don’t opt for this type of vacuum, and it has the incorrect settings, it can wear the motors down faster.
  • The wrong vacuum or settings can damage your carpet.

Look At Vacuums With Powerheads

  • Vacuums with powerheads offer a superior cleaning experience as the head of the vacuum rapidly spins a set of brushes that agitates the carpet to help lift debris.
  • Moreover, this all helps with allergies and asthma as they can clean deeper on the carpet where pet dander and dust can be trapped.
  • They work great on higher-pile carpets.

Consider Vacuums With Headlights

  • People with sight impairment or dark homes will prefer this feature to ensure a better cleaning process.
  • They’re also good for tiny, cramped spaces.

Look For Built-In Attachment Storage

  • Built-in storage saves you space.
  • It keeps all of the attachments together.
  • There is less chance of losing small parts.

Did You Know?

Most robotic vacuum cleaners have a lifespan between 4 and 6 years, with some variation due to lifestyle, accidents, and brand.

Step 5: What Price Should You Expect To Pay For A Vacuum?

Generally speaking, an upright bagless vacuum is the most cost-effective type of vacuum you can purchase today. With that in mind, expect to spend north of $100 to get a decent vacuum and perhaps on average $150. Canister vacuums, while they lack the necessity to purchase new bags, often include filters that need to be replaced after a certain amount of use.

Cordless vacuums are generally the most effective but not as powerful. However, because they’re very easy to use, they could lend themselves to more regular cleanings and are great for spot cleaning.

vacuum thick carpet

Vacuum Cleaner Types

As you might imagine, there are many different types of vacuum cleaners on the market, including upright, canister, cordless stick, corded stick, handheld, and robotic models, along with central vacuum systems. Figuring out which one to buy can feel overwhelming, but once you break them down into general categories, it becomes easier.

Vacuum Cleaners For Carpets

Each type of carpet requires different care methods. Because of this, it’s never a bad idea to invest in a carpet-specific vacuum model that’s perfect for your home.

Vacuums For Shag Carpet

  • The best vacuums for shag and thick carpet offer more adjustable settings than a traditional vacuum, so you can create a customizable cleaning experience.
  • These vacuums are powerful enough to free debris caught deep inside the plush fibers of shag rugs and carpets without causing damage.

Vacuum For Area Rugs

  • The best vacuum for area rugs focuses on adjustable suction strength, height, and beater bar functionality.
  • These powerful vacuums can clean any flooring type from low-pile carpet and shag rugs to hardwood flooring.

Warning

For your safety, do not vacuum up water unless your vacuum is designed to pick up liquids.

For Hard Surfaces

If your home has a lot of hard flooring surfaces to clean, you’ll find several options on the market that will be a perfect fit.

Vacuums For Tile Floors

  • The best rated vacuum for tile floors specializes in cleaning carpet-free surfaces.
  • It needs a powerful motor to pick up dust and hair from your floor.
  • A tile vacuum should be portable and durable for long cleaning sessions.

Vacuums For Laminate Floors

  • A top vacuum for laminate floors need a high horsepower motor.
  • Ensure your vacuum has scratch-prevention features to preserve your floors.
  • Look for a unit with multiple attachments for corners and stairs.

Vacuums For Pets

Pet hair can get into every nook and cranny of your house. So, if you have furry friends in your home, there are vacuums made specifically to clean up after them.

Handheld Vacuums For Pet Hair

  • Handheld vacuums can be convenient and useful for pet cleanup tasks.
  • The best portable vacuum cleaners for pet hair should have strong suction and good filters.
  • If car detailing and portability are important, you might also look for a cordless option.

Vacuums For Cat Litter

  • The best vacuum for cat litter offers powerful suction on any floor type.
  • With their ability to pick up heavy clay dust and pet hair, cat litter vacuums are perfect for homes with pets.

Vacuums For Sanitizing

Carpet cleaners and steam cleaners are great for sanitizing your home. However, keep in mind that these machines don’t function as a regular vacuum cleaner but are instead meant for occasional use to deep clean surfaces.

Did You Know?

20 million Americans suffer from a dust mite allergy. (Source)

Carpet Cleaners

  • The best carpet cleaner has powerful suction and a wide cleaning head.
  • These carpet shampooers also have a large, easy-to-clean water tank.
  • You’ll want to find a model with multiple cleaning attachments and a long power cord.
  • If you or someone in your household has long hair, be sure to check out our top rated vacuums for long hair.

Handheld Steam Cleaners

  • Handheld steam cleaners use hot steam to remove stains and ground-in dirt that regular vacuum cleaners and mops may miss.
  • Similar to commercial steam cleaners but smaller and more maneuverable, these units can be great for cleaning stairs, kitchen countertops, and bathrooms.
  • Portable steam cleaners can be corded or cordless.

Vacuums For Health Purposes

If you have health issues, such as allergies or asthma, the symptoms can severely impact your life. Vacuum cleaners designed to reduce airborne allergens and pollutants are a great option in this case.

HEPA Vacuums For Mold

  • HEPA vacuums effectively remove mold spores from surfaces and trap them, so they don’t get expelled back into the air through the vacuum’s exhaust vents.
  • Bagged HEPA vacuums will provide you with better air quality than bagless models.

For Other Uses

Vacuums can be used anywhere food, dust, or debris collect. Some are a special type of vacuum, whereas some types of vacuums can serve multiple purposes.

car vacuum

Car Vacuums

  • An excellent car vacuum can clean a dirty work truck or help detail a sports car.
  • Go for a car vacuum that can plug into your car’s 12V port.
  • Some of the best cordless vacuums can double as a car vacuum.

Kitchen Vacuums

  • The best kitchen vacuums offer speed and convenience while remaining powerful.
  • Your kitchen vacuum needs a powerful filter to contain dust, germs, or spilled ingredients.
  • Look for a small unit that’s easy to store away.

Commercial Vacuums

  • Commercial vacuums are designed to stand up to the rigors of daily use within a business.
  • Shop vacs are an excellent choice as they offer many commercial applications, such as sucking up sawdust or wet debris.

Robot Vacuums

These handy machines will work hard to keep your floor clean without you lifting a finger, thanks to their scheduling function. By pairing a great robot vacuum with repeat, scheduled cleaning sessions, your home will stay clean for much longer.

Robot Vacuums For Pet Hair

  • The best robot vacuum for pet hair offers powerful suction, high dust bin capacity, and plenty of advanced features.
  • Look for a robot vacuum specifically designed that won’t get tangled or lose suction once it consumes a large amount of pet hair.

Robot Vacuums For Hardwood Floors

  • The best robot vacuums for hardwood floors provide autonomous smart cleaning without damaging the wood.
  • They’re also excellent at picking up dust, which can be very “sticky” on wood.

Best Robot Vacuum And Mops

  • There are very few highly rated robot vacuum and mop models that can switch between mopping and vacuuming. These models were largely announced at CES 2021. However, they can have a high cost.
  • Alternatively, buy units that are dedicated to each type of cleaning.

STAT: – 37% of U.S. respondents reported that they were ready to invest in a robot vacuum cleaner in the next year from a 2018 survey regarding the adoption of vacuums. (Source)

Shop Vacs

There’s a reason professionals always prefer their shop vacs to their standard ones at home: they can suck up a wide array of debris, especially water, and are designed to last in a commercial environment. There are also small and portable shop vacs for those with limited space.

Cordless Vacuums

Cordless vacuums, while they can be pricey, have no cord and make spot cleaning much easier. Just remember that you’ll need to charge its battery regularly. Or better yet, have an extra battery on hand.

Warning

While it is possible to vacuum glass, it is not recommended, especially for certain vacuum models.

Cordless Vacuums For Hardwood Floors

  • The best cordless vacuums for hardwood floors give you powerful cleaning capabilities while also protecting this delicate surface.
  • These vacuums are portable and flexible by use due to their battery power and lightweight design.

Cordless Vacuums For Pet Hair

  • Highly rated cordless vacuums for pet hair are powerful and long-lasting, including a powerhead that will help collect pet debris from the carpet.
  • These vacuums are slimmer and more lightweight, making them great for stairs and cars

Vacuums By Other Features

Corded Stick Vacuums

  • The best corded stick vacuums give you a more lightweight design than standard options without sacrificing power.
  • These appliances also feature advanced functionality like cyclonic chambers for more efficient cleaning.

Bagged Vacuums

  • The best bagged vacuum has powerful suction and multiple floor modes.
  • Look for a unit with HEPA filtration and a large dust bag.
  • You’ll also want a vacuum that has multiple attachments.

Owning A Vacuum Cleaner

The responsibilities that come with owning a vacuum cleaner don’t end with the purchase. From changing filters to finding insurance, you should always protect your investment, especially if you want to increase how long your vacuum will last.

Vacuum Cleaner Warranties And Insurance

There are several ways to get a warranty or insurance on your vacuum cleaner. Manufacturers will normally offer one, as will the stores you purchased it from.

Why Some Vacuum Models Have Two Warranties

There are a couple of different answers to this question. Sometimes when you buy a vacuum, the store might offer an additional warranty on top of the manufacturer warranty for a small fee. On other vacuums, the manufacturer may offer two warranties: one for the parts and the other for the motor.

Registering Your Vacuum Online

Often, it’s not required to register to make a warranty claim or activate a product’s warranty. Simply read the terms associated with the product you purchased if you have any concerns. But rarely will a company reject a warranty claim because the owner didn’t fill out their warranty information.

Factors That Can Void A Vacuum Warranty

Several factors can void a vacuum warranty. Attempting to do any part repairs yourself, or hiring an outside professional, could completely revoke protection, though this is changing, albeit slowly. Make sure you read all the terms and conditions of any warranty you have.

Did You Know?

Up to 2,000 dust mites can live on one ounce of carpet dust. (Chemdry.com)

Cleaning The Right Way With Your Vacuum Cleaner

Figuring out how to use a vacuum cleaner can feel overwhelming, especially with so much advice out there. The best thing to do is focus on your specific model and figure out what cleaning solution works best with it, the brand’s advice for you, and what others are saying online.

Vacuum Cleaner Maintenance

Performing regular maintenance on a vacuum provides a huge boost to its lifespan. To that end, you should cultivate a few habits to keep your vacuum in shape, such as wiping down your vacuum, maintaining its filters, and cleaning out the brush heads.

Insider Tip

It is recommended to get your vacuum serviced at a minimum every 12 months by the manufacturer, retailer or a third party (check your model’s manual for specific servicing information). Servicing can keep your vacuum at peak performance, mitigate future repairs and extend its lifespan. Read our feature on Why you should service your vacuum.

Vacuum Accessories

Whether you use a dusting brush, motorized tool, or crevice tool, vacuum accessories can help you clean different types of floors and mess with ease.

Best Dog Vacuum Brush

  • The best dog vacuum brush is the perfect vacuum accessory to groom your furry friend.
  • These handy attachments are also good for cleaning up pet hair around your home and on furniture.

Vacuum Attachment For Ceiling Fans

  • Using a vacuum attachment for ceiling fans keeps them dust-free, improving their lifespan.
  • It also allows you to reach ceiling fans easily for cleaning.

Vacuum Cleaner Attachment For Blinds

  • Keeps dust levels down
  • Perform maintenance on blinds
  • Make living spaces look nicer

Best Vacuum Cleaner Questions (FAQ)

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