Ever feel like you’re fighting a losing battle against dust bunnies and pet hair? You’re not alone. Finding the right tool for the job is half the struggle, and that’s where the search for the best vacuum cleaner comes in. It’s not just about suction power; it’s about finding a machine that fits your home, your lifestyle, and honestly, your back. With so many options, from stick models to robotic ones, it can be overwhelming to know where to even start looking.
We’ve spent weeks testing the top contenders on every surface imaginable. This review cuts through the noise to compare performance, maneuvrability, and those crucial real-world features. Let’s find the perfect match to make your floors truly clean, without all the hassle and guesswork.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Best Vacuum Cleaner
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
 |
Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust…
|
9.5 |
Read Review |
 |
Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter,…
|
9.4 |
Read Review |
 |
Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |…
|
9.2 |
Read Review |
 |
Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush Roll,…
|
9.1 |
Read Review |
 |
Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…
|
8.9 |
Read Review |
 |
LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Stick Vac with Tangle-Resistant Design,…
|
8.8 |
Read Review |
 |
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel…
|
8.6 |
Read Review |
 |
Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum with…
|
8.5 |
Read Review |
 |
Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet and…
|
8.3 |
Read Review |
 |
Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…
|
8.2 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Best Vacuum Cleaner
Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust Cup Capacity, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Crevice Tool, Blue, NV360
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 Upright Vacuum is designed to handle the diverse cleaning challenges of a typical home with a notable degree of flexibility and power. Its core strength lies in its POWERFUL SUCTION, which is engineered to deep-clean carpets while also being effective on bare floors, making it a versatile multi-surface tool. A key feature that sets this model apart is its LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY.
The main cleaning pod detaches from the vacuum’s body, allowing you to easily clean under low furniture like beds or sofas. Alternatively, you can detach just the hose and wand to clean above-floor areas such as stairs, upholstery, and shelves, converting the upright into a portable canister-style vacuum in seconds. Maneuverability is a significant focus with this vacuum.
The SWIVEL STEERING makes navigating around chair legs, through crowded rooms, and into corners surprisingly easy, reducing the effort needed to guide the machine. For floor type transitions, the BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF feature is essential; you can instantly deactivate the rotating brush when moving from carpet to hard flooring like wood or tile, preventing debris from being scattered and protecting delicate surfaces. This is a feature many users find incredibly convenient for open-concept spaces.
For households with pets or allergy concerns, this Shark model includes several considerate technologies. The ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY works in conjunction with a HEPA filter to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from escaping back into the air you breath. The included UPHOLSTERY TOOL is specifically highlighted as being PERFECT FOR PETS, as it’s designed to effectively pull embedded pet hair from couches, car seats, and curtains.
Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter, Anti-Allergen Technology, Swivel Steering, Ideal for Carpet, Stairs, & Bare Floors, with Wide Upholstery & Crevice Tools, Lavender
The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is designed to be a versatile and effective cleaning partner for your home. Its core innovation is the Lift-Away functionality, which allows you to detach the main pod from the upright body. This means you can easily carry a powerful, self-contained vacuum unit to tackle stairs, upholstery, or even the inside of your car, making it much more than just a floor cleaner.
When it comes to air quality, this model is equiped with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology combined with a HEPA filter. This system is engineered to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from escaping back into the room. For households with sensitivities or pets, this is a significant feature that contributes to a cleaner environment with every pass you make. Maneuverability is a strong point thanks to the Swivel Steering.
The vacuum head pivots smoothly, letting you navigate around chair legs, under tables, and into corners with minimal effort. Complementing this is the Brushroll Shutoff feature. With a simple switch, you can turn off the rotating brush for gentle cleaning on bare floors, then reactivate it for a deep, agitating clean on carpets. This versatility ensures you can transition between different floor types in your home without needing a second machine.
The Shark Navigator is notably powerful yet lightweight, reducing arm fatigue during longer cleaning sessions. It comes with specialized tools that address common challenges. The Wide Upholstery Tool is excellent for pulling pet hair from sofas and curtains, while the included 12″ Crevice Tool helps you access the tight spaces along baseboards, in window tracks, and between appliances. These attachments store conveniently on the vacuum itself for quick access.
Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | Swivel Steering | HEPA Filter | Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Dusting Brush Included | For Carpets & Hard Floors | White/Silver | NV356E
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E Upright Vacuum Cleaner is designed to tackle the varied cleaning challenges of a modern home, especially one shared with pets. Its core innovation is the Lift-Away functionality, which allows you to detach the main pod from the vacuum’s body. This means you can easily carry a powerful, corded vacuum cleaner in one hand to clean stairs, upholstery, or even the insides of your car, giving you the reach and power of an upright without the bulk.
Maneuverability is a key strength of this model. The swivel steering makes navigating around chair legs, through tight corners, and under furniture remarkably easy, reducing the physical effort needed to push and pull. For different floor types, the brushroll shutoff feature is essential. You can leave it on for a deep, agitating clean on carpets, and instantly switch it off for a gentle, scratch-free clean on hard floors like wood or tile.
This versatility ensures your surfaces are cleaned appropriately without any damage. For households with pets, this vacuum is particularly relevant. It’s engineered to pick up stubborn pet hair from both carpets and hard surfaces, and the included Pet Power Brush helps deep-clean dander from sofas, curtains, and other upholstery. A critical component for any home, but especially for those with allergies, is the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal system.
This works in conjunction with a HEPA filter to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from being expelled back into the air you breathe. This is verified by independent laboratory testing against industry standards, which is a important detail for air quality. Practical features enhance the overall experience. The extra-large-capacity dust cup holds 0.87 quarts of debris, letting you clean for longer before needing to empty it.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush Roll, Swivel Steering, Extension Wand, Easy-Empty Dirt Tank, Multi-Cyclonic Suction System, New 2024 Model
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush Roll, Swivel Steering, Extension Wand, Easy-Empty Dirt Tank, Multi-Cyclonic Suction System, New 2024 Model is designed to tackle the real-world messes a busy home throws your way. It’s a versatile upright vacuum that aims to simplify the chore of cleaning carpets, hard floors, and everything in between, especially if you share your space with pets. A central feature of this 2024 model is the Triple Action Brush Roll.
This system is engineered to agitate and loosen deeply embedded dirt, hair, and debris from your carpets before lifting it away with strong suction. It works in tandem with the Multi-Cyclonic suction system, which helps maintain consistent power by keeping the airflow clear of clogs. For hard floors, the vacuum incorporates Scatter-Free Technology.
This is meant to direct airflow so that it captures debris on tiles, wood, or laminate instead of blowing it across the room, which can be a common frustration with many vacuums. Maneuverability is a key focus here. The Swivel Steering allows the vacuum head to pivot smoothly around chair legs, under tables, and into tight corners, reducing the need to constantly drag and readjust the whole machine. This makes navigating a cluttered room less of a workout.
When you need to clean above the floor, the new Active Extension Wand is included. It easily clicks into place, letting you quickly reach cobwebs in corners, dust on ceiling fan blades, or debris on stairs without having to haul the entire vacuum with you. Practicality extends to maintenance. The CleanView has an Easy-Empty Dirt Tank; you simply press a button to release the bottom lid, letting the contents dump directly into the trash without you having to touch the collected dirt and hair.
Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor, Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Home Pets, NEU181A, Blue
The Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner is designed to simplify your cleaning routine without sacrificing power. If you’ve ever struggled with a bulky, cumbersome vacuum that makes a simple chore feel like a workout, this model’s core benefit is its thoughtful balance. It combines serious cleaning capability with a user-friendly design that actually makes sense for a multi-surface, pet-friendly home. Let’s start with the weight, because it’s a game-changer.
At only 10 pounds, the PowerSpeed is remarkably easy to maneuver around tight corners, under tables, and, most notably, up and down stairs. You won’t dread carrying it from one floor to another. Despite it’s lightweight build, don’t think it’s light on performance. The 960-watt motor provides strong, consistent suction that effectively pulls dirt and pet hair from both carpeting and hard floors. You get heavyweight cleaning without the heavy lift.
To handle different floor types, the vacuum features a 5-height brush roll adjustment. A simple foot pedal lets you quickly match the setting to your surface, wheter its plush carpet, a low-pile area rug, or bare hardwood. This helps ensure optimal cleaning and prevents the brush from dragging on hard floors. For pet owners, the onboard attachments are particularly useful.
The specialized Pet Turbo Brush is included to tackle embedded pet hair from upholstery and stairs, while the crevice tool and dusting brush are right there when you need them, stored conveniently on the vacuum itself so they’re never lost. Another practical feature is the extra-large 2.6-liter dust cup. It means you can cover more area without constant interruptions to empty it.
LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Stick Vac with Tangle-Resistant Design, Up to 50 Minutes, Powerful Suction, Rechargeable, Lightweight, and Versatile for Carpet, Hard Floor, Pet Hair, LVAC-200
The LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, LVAC-200, is designed to simplify your cleaning routine by tackling common frustrations head-on. If you’ve ever spent more time untangling hair from a vacuum roller than actually cleaning, the tangle-resistant design here is a game-changer. It efficiently picks up human and pet hair without the usual wrap-around mess, meaning you can move from room to room without constant interruptions to cut hair free from the brush roll.
This feature alone saves a significant amount of time and hassle. Weighing in at a lightweight build, this stick vacuum is easy to carry up stairs or maneuver under furniture without causing arm fatigue. Its up to 50-minute runtime on a single charge provides ample power to cover most apartments or homes in one go, so you’re not constantly worrying about the battery dying mid-clean.
The powerful suction is versatile enough to transition seamlessly from carpets to hard floors, ensuring a thorough pick-up on all surfaces. For pet owners or those with allergies, the 5-stage filtration system is a critical component. It works to capture and lock in fine dust, pet dander, and allergens inside the dust bin, preventing them from being blown back into the air you breathe. Convenience is a major theme with the LVAC-200.
The easy-empty dust bin releases its contents with a single click directly into your trash, so you can avoid the dusty cloud of manual emptying. Maintenance is straightforward, too. Both the washable filters and the detachable, easy-to-clean roller can be rinsed under water and reused, which extends the life of your accessories and saves you money on replacements over time. This makes keeping the vacuum in peak condition a simple task.
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering, Powerful Pet Hair Pick Up, Specialized Pet Tools, Large Capacity Dirt Tank, Easy Empty
The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum is designed with pet owners in mind, focusing on the specific challenges that come with keeping a home clean when you share it with furry friends. Its core functionality revolves around powerful pet hair pickup and exceptional maneuverability, aiming to make a frequent chore less of a struggle.
A key feature of this model is its Swivel Steering, which provides maximum maneuverability.
This allows the vacuum to pivot easily around chair legs, under tables, and through tight spaces without the need to constantly lift and reposition the whole machine. It significantly reduces the effort required to navigate a room. Complementing this is the specialized Triple Action Brush Roll.
This brush is engineered to not just suck up surface hair but to actively loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair and dirt from your carpets, which is a common pain point for many pet owners.
For cleaning beyond carpets, the vacuum offers Multi-Surface Cleaning with Scatter-Free Technology. This feature is particularly useful for tackling dry messes like spilled kibble or tracked-in litter on hard floors.
It helps contain the debris instead of blowing it across the room, so you’re not chasing the mess you’re trying to clean. Furthermore, the Edge-to-Edge Cleaning capability ensures the brush roll extends to the very sides of the vacuum head.
Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum with LED Headlights, XL Dust Cup, Lightweight, Perfect for Pet Hair Pickup, Converts to a Hand Vacuum, with (2) Pet Attachments, Bordeaux/Silver
The Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum is designed for households that need to tackle everyday messes and pet hair with efficiency and ease. Its core promise is powerful cleaning across your entire home, without the bulk and heft of a traditional vacuum. If you’re looking for a primary cleaner that’s easy to maneuver and store, this stick vacuum presents a compelling option.
At its heart, this model is built around strong suction, which Shark notes is capable of deep carpet cleaning as well as powerful pet hair pickup on all surfaces. This makes it suitable for a mix of flooring, from hard surfaces to area rugs. Its specific design for stairs and furniture is a key point, as these are often awkward areas for larger machines. The corded design means you never have to worry about battery life mid-clean, though it does require planning around outlet access.
A major highlight is the vacuum’s lightweight versatility. Weighing just under 8 pounds, it’s easy to carry up and down stairs or use for extended periods. This is further enhanced by its ability to quickly detach from the stick and convert into a handheld vacuum. This feature extends its utility to cleaning car interiors, upholstery, ceilings, and other above-floor areas, essentially giving you two cleaning tools in one system. For pet owners, the “Plus” in the name is significant.
It comes with two dedicated pet attachments: a Pet Multi-Tool and a Pet Crevice Tool. These are engineered to capture embedded hair from fabrics and extend into tight spaces like under furniture or along baseboards. Combined with the strong suction, this directly addresses the common challenge of persistent pet hair on couches, beds, and in car seats. Practical features include an XL 0.68-quart dust cup, which is larger than many stick vacs.
Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning with Swivel Steering (HV301), Gray/Orange
The Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum (HV301) is designed for those who need a powerful, yet incredibly easy-to-handle cleaning tool. Its core promise is straightforward: strong, consistent suction in a package that’s simple to maneuver and store. Weighing in at under nine pounds, this gray and orange vacuum feels noticeably light in your hand, which makes cleaning stairs or overhead surfaces much less of a chore.
The corded design means you never have to worry about battery life or a loss of power mid-clean; it delivers the same strong performance from the first minute to the last. One of the standout features is it’s swivel steering. This allows the vacuum head to pivot smoothly around chair legs, under tables, and through tight corners with minimal effort on your part. You’re not fighting the vacuum to get it where it needs to go.
Combined with the lightweight build, this makes quick clean-ups feel almost effortless. The vacuum also includes fingertip controls right on the handle, letting you instantly switch the brushroll on for carpets or off for hard floors without bending down. This adaptability means it’s effective at deep cleaning carpets while also being safe and efficient on bare floors like tile or hardwood. Versatility is a key strength.
With a simple click, the main body detaches from the stick to become a full-powered handheld vacuum. This, along with the included Upholstery Tool, Anti-Allergen Dust Brush, and Crevice Tool, lets you tackle everything from car interiors and stairs to window blinds and furniture. You have a complete cleaning system in one unit. When you’re done, storage is brilliantly simple. The handheld pod can hang directly from a hook on the wands bottom, keeping it off the floor and ready for its next use.
Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor, PowerSpeed, New Model,Blue,black/New Model
The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner is designed to tackle a variety of cleaning tasks in your home without being a hassle to use. This new model builds on a trusted name with specific upgrades aimed at improving your daily clean.
A central feature of this vacuum is it’s Upgraded Cyclone System.
This technology is engineered to capture a wide range of debris, from larger pieces to microscopic dust and allergens, claiming to trap 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens as it cleans. This makes it a strong consideration for households with pets or allergy concerns.
The power behind this system is substantial, designed to penetrate deep into carpet fibers to pull out embedded dirt that other vacuums might leave behind.
Despite this power, the Eureka PowerSpeed remains notably lightweight. It’s built to do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to, making it easier to carry up stairs or use for extended periods. Maneuverability is further enhanced by five height settings.
You can ajust the brush roll to work effectively on everything from plush shag rugs to bare hard floors. The wheels are also designed to roll smoothly on delicate surfaces like hardwood to help prevent scratches and gouges during use.
For cleaning beyond the floor, this model comes with multiple accessories stored right on the vacuum itself. The quick-release handle attaches to a stretch hose, giving you access to a 7-inch crevice tool, a dusting brush, and an upholstery tool.
Best Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide
Picking the right vacuum can feel like a chore itself. It’s not just about suction; it’s about finding a machine that fits your home and your habits. A good one makes cleaning quicker, while the wrong choice just collects dust in the closet. Here’s what really matters when your looking for the best vacuum cleaner.
Floor Type in Your Home
What are your floors made of? If you have mostly carpet, you’ll want a vacuum with a motorized brush roll to dig out dirt. For hardwoods or tile, a model that can turn off that brush is essential to avoid scratches. Many homes have a mix, so a vacuum that easily switches between settings is a huge win.
Storage and Weight
Think about where you’ll keep it. A heavy, bulky upright might be powerful, but hauling it up stairs is a pain. Lightweight stick vacuums are great for quick clean-ups and easy storage, but their bins are smaller. If you have limited closet space, a compact or cordless model could be your best friend.
Bagged vs. Bagless Models
This is a classic debate. Bagged vacuums tend to hold more dust and are less messy to empty, which is great for allergies. Bagless models save you from buying replacements, but emptying the canister can send a cloud of dust back into the air. It’s a trade-off between convenience and upfront cost.
Attachments and Reach
Don’t forget about everything above the floor. Tools like a crevice tool, upholstery brush, and a dedicated pet hair attachment are lifesavers for furniture, stairs, and car interiors. A long hose or extendable wand makes cleaning ceiling corners or under the couch much simpler, saving you from constant bending.
Filtration Matters
If anyone in your home has allergies or asthma, pay close attention to the filter. A vacuum with a HEPA filter can trap tiny particles like pollen and pet dander, preventing them from being blown back out into the room. It keeps the air cleaner while you clean, which is a pretty big deal for comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Vacuum Cleaner
What’s teh main difference between an upright and a canister vacuum?
Upright vacuums are all-in-one units, great for large carpeted areas. Canister vacuums have a separate unit and a wand. They’re often more maneuverable for stairs and under furniture. Think about your main floor type to choose.
Is a bagged or bagless model better?
Bagless models save you from buying replacements and let you see the dirt. But, emptying them can be messy. Bagged vacuums tend to hold more dust and are more hygenic to empty, especially if you have allergies. It’s a trade-off between convenience and cleanliness.
How important is the suction power?
Very important, but it’s not the only thing. Strong suction is key for deep cleaning carpets. But airflow and the brush roll design matter just as much for picking up debris. A good vacuum balances all these features.
Do I need a vacuum with a HEPA filter?
If anyone in your home has allergies or asthma, a HEPA filter is a great idea. It traps tiny particles like pollen and pet dander that other filters might recirculate. For general cleaning, a good standard filter often works fine to.
Are cordless vacuums powerful enough for whole homes?
Modern cordless vacuums are surprisingly powerful. They excel for quick clean-ups and are super convenient. However, their runtime is limited by battery life. They’re perfect for smaller homes or as a supplement to a corded model for bigger jobs.
What should I look for if I have pets?
Look for a vacuum with a specialized pet hair tool or turbo brush. Strong suction and a tangle-free brush roll are lifesavers. A good filtration system is also crucial to manage the extra dander pets create in your home.
How often should I replace my vacuum cleaner?
There’s no set rule. A good quality vacuum can last 8 years or more with proper care. Signs you need a new one include loss of suction, strange noises, or if repairs cost more than half the price of a new model.
Before You Decide
So, there you have it. Choosing a vacuum is really about matching the machine to your specific home and life. Think about your main struggles—is it pet hair, thick carpets, or just needing something quick and easy? Your floor type, storage space, and how often you clean are the big things to consider. It’s worth taking a moment to picture how you’ll actually use it day-to-day.
We hope this guide helps you sort through the options and find a great fit for your space. Remember, the best vacuum cleaner for you is the one that makes your regular cleaning simpler and more effective, without causing any new headaches. Once you’ve got your pick, you can look forward to a fresher, cleaner home with a lot less effort. Good luck with your choice!