Ever feel like you’re pushing a stubborn mule instead of cleaning your floors? Finding the best vacuum upright vacuum cleaner can feel like a chore in itself, with so many models shouting about suction and swivel heads. But a truly great one transforms cleaning from a battle into a breeze, gliding effortlessly and actually getting all that pet hair and dust you swear multiplies overnight.
We’ve pushed, pulled, and tested the top contenders on every floor type to cut through the noise. This guide is here to save you hours of research and help you find the perfect match for your home, so you can spend less time vacuuming and more time enjoying those spotless floors. Let’s dive in and find your cleaning partner.
Product Comparison Table: 10 Best Best Vacuum Upright Vacuum Cleaner
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Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust…
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9.9 |
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Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter,…
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9.7 |
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Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |…
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9.5 |
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Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…
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9.3 |
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Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…
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9.1 |
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Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel…
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9.0 |
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Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Carpet and…
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8.8 |
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Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll, HEPA…
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8.6 |
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Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Purple
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8.4 |
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Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum with Quick Release…
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8.2 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 10 Best Vacuum Upright 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 is designed to be a versatile and effective cleaning tool for a variety of home environments. Its core strength lies in its powerful suction, which is engineered to handle both deep carpet fibers and bare floors, ensuring a thorough clean across different surfaces without needing to switch machines. A key feature of this model is its innovative lift-away functionality.
The main cleaning pod detaches from the vacuum’s body, allowing you to carry a lightweight, portable unit for cleaning stairs, upholstery, or areas under low furniture. This flexibility means you’re not just cleaning floors; you’re equipped to tackle dust on curtains, cobwebs in corners, and pet hair on the sofa with the included upholstery and crevice tools.
Speaking of pets, the vacuum’s design and attachments are particularly adept at picking up stubborn pet hair, making it a strong candidate for pet owners. For those concerned with air quality, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology is a significant point. This system, combined with the HEPA filter, is designed to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the dust cup, preventing them from being exhausted back into the room.
This can be a relief for anyone with allergies or who simply wants a cleaner post-cleaning environment. The large 0.9-quart dust cup supports longer cleaning sessions and is easy to detach and empty, which is a practical touch for maintaining the vacuum’s performance. Maneuverability is another highlight. The swivel steering lets you navigate smoothly around chair legs, through crowded rooms, and into tight corners with minimal effort.
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 tool for a variety of household challenges. 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 far more than just a floor cleaner.
A major consideration for many households is air quality and allergens. This model adresses that with its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, which works in conjunction with a HEPA filter. The system is engineered to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from escaping back into the air you breathe. This is a significant benefit for anyone with allergies or pets, ensuring that cleaning actually removes irritants instead of just redistributing them.
Maneuverability is a standout feature. The Swivel Steering lets you navigate smoothly around furniture legs, through tight corners, and under tables with minimal effort. Combined with a lightweight design, this makes the vacuum easy to push and guide, reducing the physical strain of cleaning. When you move from carpets to hard surfaces like wood or tile, the Brushroll Shutoff feature is invaluable.
You can instantly turn off the rotating brush to prevent scattering debris or potentially scratching delicate floors, switching to powerful suction-only mode. For homes with pets, the NV352 is particularly adept. The powerful suction, combined with the included Wide Upholstery Tool, makes lifting embedded pet hair from sofas, stairs, and curtains much more manageable.
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 messes of a busy home, particularly if you share it with pets. Its core innovation is the Lift-Away functionality. With a simple release, you can detach the pod from the vacuum’s base, converting the whole unit into a portable, powerful canister.
This makes cleaning stairs, upholstery, or ceiling corners significantly easier, as your not lugging a heavy upright up each step.
For pet owners, this vacuum is a strong ally. It’s specifically built to pick up pet hair from carpets and hard floors, and the included Pet Power Brush works to deep-clean dander from furniture and other surfaces. Working in tandem with this is the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal system.
It combines a HEPA filter with a sealed construction to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from escaping back into the air you breathe. This is verified by independent laboratory testing against industry standards, which is a key detail for household with allergy sufferers.
Maneuverability is a highlight. The Swivel Steering allows the vacuum head to pivot smoothly around furniture legs, through tight spaces, and into corners with minimal effort.
You also have control over the brushroll; with the Brushroll Shutoff, you can instantly disengage it for gentle suction on hard floors like hardwood or tile, then re-engage it for a deep, agitating clean on carpets. The extra-large 0.87-quart dust cup means you can cover more area between empties, and it’s designed for quick, mess-free disposal.
Shark includes several tools to round out your cleaning.
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 be a straightforward, effective solution for keeping your carpets and hard floors clean without a lot of hassle. This new model builds on a trusted name with some thoughtful upgrades that focus on performance and everyday usability.
At its core, the PowerSpeed features an Upgraded Cyclone System.
This new technology is engineered to capture a wide range of debris, from larger particles to microscopic dust and allergens, trapping an impressive 99.9% of what it picks up. This is particularly beneficial for households with pets or allergy concerns, as it helps keep dander and dust from escaping back into the air.
The vacuum doesn’t just skim the surface; its powerful suction is meant to penetrate deep into carpet fibers to pull out embedded dirt that other vacuums might leave behind.
Despite this power, a key highlight is it’s lightweight design. It’s built to do the heavy lifting so you don’t have to, making it easier to carry up stairs or maneuver around furniture without feeling like a chore. To handle different surfaces, it comes with 5 height settings.
You can adjust it for plush carpets, shag rugs, or bare hard floors. The wheels are designed to roll smoothly on delicate surfaces like hardwood to help prevent any scratches or gouges during use, which is a nice peace of mind feature.
For cleaning beyond the floor, the PowerSpeed includes a set of multiple accessories that store right on the vacuum itself.
Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor, Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Home Pets, NEU181A, Blue
The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner NEU181A is designed to tackle the everyday messes of a busy home without adding extra hassle to the chore. Its core promise is simple: strong cleaning power in a package that’s genuinely easy to handle. If you’ve ever struggled with a bulky, heavy vacuum that’s a pain to drag from room to room or carry up a flight of stairs, this model’s lightweight build is a significant change of pace.
Weighing in at only about 10 pounds, the PowerSpeed lives up to its name by being remarkably easy to maneuver. You can quickly guide it around furniture legs, under tables, and up to second-floor bedrooms without feeling like you’re wrestling with a cumbersome machine. Despite it’s light weight, it doesn’t compromise on suction. A robust 960-watt motor provides the consistent power needed to pull dirt from a variety of surfaces.
Whether you’re cleaning bare hardwood floors, tiles, low-pile area rugs, or plush wall-to-wall carpeting, this vacuum adapts to the task at hand. A key feature that enhances it’s usability is the five-position height adjustment for the brush roll. With a simple foot pedal, you can instantly optimize the cleaning head for deep carpets or hard floors, ensuring effective dirt pickup and protecting your surfaces. This is especially helpful in homes with mixed flooring.
For pet owners, the included attachments make a real difference. The specialized Pet Turbo Brush is engineered to pull embedded pet hair from upholstery and stairs, while the crevice tool and dusting brush are stored right on the vacuum body for immediate access. No more searching for lost tools in a closet. Another practical benefit is the extra-large 2.6-liter dust cup. It means you can cover more square footage during your cleaning session without having to stop and empty the bin repeatedly.
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 for households with pets, focusing on tackling the specific challenges pet hair and messes create. Its core feature is the swivel steering, which gives you exceptional maneuverability to easily navigate around chair legs, under tables, and through tight spaces without the constant back-and-forth struggling.
At the heart of its cleaning power is the Triple Action Brush Roll.
This system doesn’t just sweep the surface; it’s built to agitate and loosen deeply embedded pet hair from carpets, lift it, and then suction it away effectively. For hard surfaces like wood, tile, or laminate, the vacuum includes Scatter-Free Technology.
This means when you go to clean up dry kibble or litter, the powerful suction pulls debris in without blowing it across the room, which saves you time and frustration.
Cleaning along walls and in corners is often a weak spot for many vacuums, but the 2252 CleanView is built with Edge-to-Edge cleaning capability.
The design allows the brush roll to extend nearly to the vacuum’s edge, helping you capture hair and dust that accumulates along baseboards and in room corners where it tends to collect. The specialized pet tools that come with it, like a crevice tool and pet hair upholstery tool, are crucial for furniture, stairs, and car interiors, giving you a complete system for pet messes.
You’ll appreciate the large-capacity, bagless dirt tank.
Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Carpet and Floor, AirSpeed Ultra-Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner, w/ Replacement Filter, Blue
The Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner is designed to be a straightforward, effective solution for keeping your floors clean without a lot of hassle. Its core promise is powerful suction across all floor types, from bare surfaces to carpets, making it a versatile pick for most homes. With a 10.5-inch wide cleaning path, it covers more ground with each pass, which means you can finish cleaning larger rooms more quickly than with narrower models.
It’s particularly adept at pulling up embedded dirt and stubborn pet hair, aiming to leave your surfaces looking refreshed. One of the most appreciated features of this vacuum is its incredible lightweight design. At just 7.7 pounds, it’s easy to carry up and down stairs or maneuver around furniture without feeling like a workout. When you’re done, its compact shape allows it to tuck neatly into a closet or corner, solving storage issues in smaller homes.
The convenience continues with its quick-release handle. Simply detach it, and you can attach the included crevice tool or dusting brush for above-floor tasks like cleaning window sills, ceiling corners, upholstery, or car interiors. All the tools you need snap right onto the vacuum body itself, so they’re never lost when you need them—a simple but major plus for streamlining your routine. Maintenance is kept intentionally simple to save you time and money.
As a bagless vacuum, you empty the dirt cup as needed, and the washable filter can be rinsed under water and left to dry. This not only cuts down on ongoing costs but also makes the vacuum a more environmentally friendly choice by eliminating the need for disposable bags. It’s a practical feature that supports effective cleaning over the long term. In essence, the Eureka NEU10AE5 positions itself as a reliable, no-fuss cleaning partner.
Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Pet Crevice Tool, Perfect for Pets & Multi-Surface, Teal, ZU503AMZ
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away ZU503AMZ is an upright vacuum designed to tackle the common headaches of home cleaning, especially in households with pets. Its core promise is versatility, moving seamlessly from a powerful upright to a portable, detachable cleaning pod for those jobs that require a bit more finesse or reach. A standout feature is the self-cleaning brushroll. Anyone who’s spent time cutting hair off a roller will appreciate this engineering.
It’s specifically built to pick up more pet hair while actively reducing the tangles and wraps that can slow you down. This means you’re spending less time maintaining the tool and more time actually cleaning. The brushroll works across multiple surfaces, making it a practical choice for homes with a mix of carpet, tile, and hardwood. It operates at 1200 watts, providing strong suction for a thorough clean. The Lift-Away functionality is where this model truly shines.
With a simple release, the main pod detaches from the vacuum’s base. This allows you to easily clean under low furniture like beds or sofas without dragging the entire machine. You can also detach the hose and nozzle to clean above the floor—think stairs, upholstery, shelves, and even curtains. This flexibility means one machine handles jobs you might have used several different tools for in the past.
For air quality, the vacuum utilizes Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology combined with a HEPA filter. This system is designed to trap dust, dander, and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner instead of letting them escape back into the air you breathe. It’s a considerate feature for family members with allergies or sensitivities. Maneuverability is addressed through swivel steering.
Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Purple
The Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Purple, is designed to tackle your whole-home cleaning with a balance of power and easy handling. At its core is a dynamic motor and brush roll system that provides the suction strength needed to pull up stubborn debris, from embedded pet hair to cereal crumbs. The 12.6-inch wide cleaning nozzle means you can cover more floor area with each pass, making the job quicker and more efficient, especially in open spaces.
One of the first things you’ll notice is how easy it is to maneuver. Weighing just 10 pounds, this lightweight upright vacuum feels nimble in your hand, allowing you to glide around furniture and from room to room without the usual arm fatigue. It’s built for the entire home, and the five height adjustment settings ensure it adapts perfectly to whatever surface your on. Whether it’s a plush shag rug, low-pile carpet, or bare hardwood floors, you can quickly dial in the right setting.
The smooth-rolling wheels are gentle, so you don’t have to worry about leaving scratches or gouges on your delicate hard floors. A major convenience is the extra-large 2.6-liter dust cup. It holds a significant amount of dirt, dust, and debris before it needs to be emptied. This translates to fewer interruptions during your cleaning sessions—you can simply clean more and empty less. When it is time to empty, the bagless design makes it a straightforward, no-fuss process.
For all those spots an upright can’t reach, the NEU182B comes ready with a suite of onboard tools. The quick-release handle connects to a stretch hose for above-floor cleaning tasks. You’ll find a 7-inch crevice tool perfect for tight spaces, a dusting brush for delicate surfaces, and an upholstery tool to freshen up furniture and car interiors. These tools make it simple to extract dirt and pet hair from curtains, ceilings, door frames, and stairs.
Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum with Quick Release Wand, Full Size Power, Compact Size for Apartments & Dorms, 3437F
The Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum with Quick Release Wand, 3437F, is designed for those who need serious cleaning power without the bulk of a full-sized machine. If you live in an apartment, dorm, or smaller home, you know storage is precious and maneuvering around furniture is a constant challenge.
This vacuum directly addresses those needs by packing full-size suction into a lightweight, compact frame that’s easy to store in a closet or corner.
Weighing just 10 pounds, the CleanView Compact Turbo is remarkably easy to carry up stairs or lift for quick under-furniture cleaning. Its lighter build doesn’t mean it sacrifices performance, however. The powerful motor provides the suction you’d expect from a much larger vacuum, making it effective on both carpets and hard floors.
A key feature for hard floors is the Scatter-Free Technology, which aims to capture debris directly instead of blowing it across the room. This means less chasing after dust and crumbs, and more efficient cleaning in a single pass.
Cleaning isn’t just about floors, and the included Quick Release Extension Wand adds crucial versatility. With a simple release mechanism, you can quickly detach the wand to tackle baseboards, ceiling corners, window sills, and upholstery.
This transforms the vacuum from a simple floor cleaner into a comprehensive tool for your entire living space. The wand stores conveniently on the vacuum itself, so its always there when you need it without requiring extra assembly or searching for parts.
Beyond its functional design, choosing this Bissell product supports a meaningful cause. Every purchase contributes to the BISSELL Pet Foundation and their mission to help save homeless pets.
Best Vacuum Upright Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide
Upright vacuums are classic for a reason. They’re powerful, easy to store, and great for covering large carpeted areas quickly. But not all models are teh same. The right one for you depends on your home’s layout and your cleaning habits. Here’s what to think about before you decide.
Floor Type Compatibility
This is the big one. Do you have mostly carpet, hard floors, or a mix? Many uprights excel on carpet but can scatter debris on hard surfaces. Look for models with a brush roll shut-off. This feature lets you turn off the spinning bristles so you can gently sweep hard floors without kicking dust around. Some even automatically adjust the brush height for different pile carpets.
Maneuverability and Weight
You’ll be pushing this thing around your whole home, so how it feels matters. Check the swivel head action—a good one makes navigating around furniture legs much easier. Weight is also key. A heavier vacuum might have a sturdier build, but if you have stairs or need to carry it often, a lighter model could save your back. It’s a balance between power and comfort.
Filtration System
If allergies are a concern, pay close attention to the filter. A sealed HEPA filtration system is your best bet. It traps tiny particles like pollen and pet dander inside the vacuum, preventing them from blowing back into your room’s air. Just remember, these filters need regular washing or replacement to stay effective, so factor that into your long-term cost.
Corded vs. Cordless
Corded uprights offer consistent, strong suction for as long as you need to clean. You never have to wait for a battery to charge. Cordless models provide amazing freedom and are perfect for quick clean-ups, but their runtime is limited, usually 30 to 60 minutes. Suction power can also dimish as the battery drains. Think about the size of your space and wether you mind being tethered to an outlet.
Dust Capacity and Emptying
How often do you want to empty the bin? A larger capacity is convenient for big homes, but a full bin can reduce suction. Look at how you empty it too. Bagless models are common, but dumping the canister can be a dusty affair. Bagged models contain the mess better, but you have to keep buying bags. It’s a trade-off between convenience and cleanliness.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Vacuum Upright Vacuum Cleaner
What’s teh main advantage of an upright vacuum?
Upright vacuums are great for covering large carpeted areas quickly. They are usually self-standing and easy to store. Many people find them more familiar and straightforward to use than other types.
Are upright vacuums good for hard floors?
Many modern uprights are good for hard floors. Look for a model with a switch to turn off the brush roll. This stops it from scattering debris. Some also have a special setting or a different attachment for hard surfaces.
How important is the cord length?
It’s very important for convenience. A longer cord means less frequent unplugging to change outlets. Look for a cord that’s at least 25 feet long. This gives you a good range of motion without interuption.
What does “bagged vs. bagless” mean?
Bagged models collect dirt in a disposable bag you replace. Bagless models have a dust cup you empty and wash. Bagged vacuums can be better for allergies as they seal in dust. Bagless saves you from buying bags, but emptying them can be messy.
Is a HEPA filter necessary?
If you have allergies or pets, a HEPA filter is a smart choice. It traps very fine particles and keeps cleaner air coming out of the vacuum. Just remember, the filter needs to be replaced or cleaned regularly to work its best.
Can I use an upright on stairs?
This can be tricky due to their size and weight. Some lighter models are easier to manage. Often, you’ll use the hose and attachments that come with the vacuum for stair cleaning instead of the whole machine.
What should I look for in terms of power?
Don’t just look at “peak horsepower.” Check for good suction power (air watts or sealed suction ratings are better indicators). Also, a strong brush roll is key for digging dirt out of carpets. The best vacuums have a good balance of both.
Conclusion
So, there you have it. Choosing teh right vacuum doesn’t have to be a huge chore. It’s really about matching the machine to your specific home and needs. Think about your floors, your storage space, and what features will make your life easier. A good vacuum is an investment in a cleaner, more comfortable living space for you and your family.
We hope this guide helps you sort through the options. Taking a moment to consider what you really need can make all the difference. With the right info, you’re well on your way to finding the best vacuum upright vacuum cleaner for your house. Then you can get back to enjoying a clean home without all the fuss.