A single solution for your entire home. Finding the perfect vacuum for carpet and hardwood can feel like an impossible mission. You want power for deep-down dirt in the rug, but gentle care for those delicate floors. It’s a real headache, right? Who has room for two separate machines anyway.
This review is here to cut through the confusion. We tested a popular model that promises to handle it all, from plush pile to polished planks. Let’s see if it truly delivers on being that one-stop cleaning hero you’ve been searching for.
Product Comparison Table: 11 Best Vacuum For Carpet And Hardwood
| Image | Why We Like This Product | Editor’s Rating | |
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Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |…
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9.8 |
Read Review |
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Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust…
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9.6 |
Read Review |
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Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter,…
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9.5 |
Read Review |
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Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum with Quick Release…
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9.3 |
Read Review |
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Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm Rooms…
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9.1 |
Read Review |
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Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Carpet and…
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8.9 |
Read Review |
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Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, NEU10AE4,…
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8.8 |
Read Review |
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Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush Roll,…
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8.6 |
Read Review |
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Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful Suction,…
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8.4 |
Read Review |
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Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet and…
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8.3 |
Read Review |
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Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…
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8.1 |
Read Review |
Quick Review For Top 11 Vacuum For Carpet And Hardwood
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 handle the real messes of everyday life, especially if you have pets. Its core feature is the Lift-Away functionality. You can detach the pod from the vacuum’s body, which gives you a portable, powerful canister. This makes cleaning stairs, upholstery, or under low furniture much simpler, as you’re not lugging the whole upright unit with you.
For pet owners, this vacuum is a practical tool.
It’s built to pick up pet hair from carpets, hard floors, and furniture. The included Pet Power Brush works with the strong suction to help pull up embedded hair and dander. This is paired with an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal system and a HEPA filter. Together, they are designed to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, so they’re not released back into the air you breath. This is a key feature for maintaining a cleaner home environment.
Maneuverability is a strong point.
The Swivel Steering lets the vacuum pivot easily around chair legs, through tight corners, and under tables. You don’t have to fight with it. When you move from a carpeted room to a hard floor, the Brushroll Shutoff is handy. You can turn off the rotating brush with a simple switch, which prevents the vacuum from scattering debris on hard surfaces and gives you gentler cleaning for delicate floors.
The vacuum comes ready for various tasks.
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 an upright vacuum designed to handle the varied messes of a busy home. Its core strength is powerful, multi-surface suction that pulls dirt from both carpets and bare floors effectively. You can easily switch between these surfaces using the brushroll shutoff feature, which turns off the spinning brush for gentle hard floor cleaning. A key feature of this model is its Lift-Away functionality.
The main pod detaches from the vacuum’s body with a simple button press. This lets you carry a lightweight, portable unit for cleaning stairs, upholstery, furniture, or even inside the car. It’s also perfect for reaching under low-clearance furniture like beds and sofas without having to drag the whole machine. For households with pets or allergy concerns, this vacuum offers specific benefits. It comes with a handy upholstery tool that tackles pet hair on furniture and stairs.
More importantly, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology combines with a HEPA filter to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the dust cup, preventing them from escaping back into the air you breath. This is a significant advantage for maintaining cleaner indoor air. Maneuverability is a strong point thanks to swivel steering. The nozzle pivots smoothly, making it easy to navigate around chair legs, through tight corners, and around other obstacles without constant back-and-forth tugging.
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 feature is the Lift-Away functionality, which lets you detach the main pod from the upright body with a simple click. This means you can easily carry a powerful, self-contained vacuum unit to tackle stairs, upholstery, or even the inside of your car without dragging the whole machine around.
It truly bridges the gap between an upright’s power and a canister’s portability. Cleaning isn’t just about dirt you can see. This Shark vacuum incorporates Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, which works in tandem with its HEPA filter. The system is designed to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, so you’re not blowing particles back into the air you breath.
For households with sensitivities or pets, this is a significant benefit, helping to maintain a cleaner environment after each use. It’s perfect for pets, as the included wide upholstery tool is excellent for lifting embedded pet hair from sofas, chairs, and curtains. Maneuverability is a strong point. The swivel steering makes navigating around table legs, in tight corners, and under furniture surprisingly easy and fluid.
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. Its a perfect match for apartments, dorm rooms, or smaller homes where storage space is tight and maneuverability is key. At just 10 pounds, it’s remarkably lightweight, making it easy to carry up stairs or glide around furniture without feeling like a chore. Don’t let the compact size fool you.
This vacuum packs full-size suction power to tackle embedded dirt, pet hair, and debris from your carpets. The heart of the system is Bissell’s specialized multi-cyclonic suction, which helps maintain strong power to pick up more dirt. For hard floors, the Scatter-Free Technology is a thoughtful feature. It aims to capture crumbs and dust on hard surfaces with less blow-around, so you’re not chasing the same mess across the room.
Cleaning beyond the floor is simple with the Quick Release Extension Wand. You can easily detach it to reach under furniture or to use the included crevice tool and dusting brush for vents, ceilings, and upholstery. The wand stores right on the vacuum, so its always there when you need it. The tank is also easy to empty—just press a button to relase the dirt cup and dispose of the contents without having to touch the grime. Its a hygienic process that keeps things simple.
Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm Rooms & Apartments, Lightweight with Powerful Suction and Removable Extension Wand, 3508
The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, 3508 is designed for life in smaller spaces. If you live in a dorm room, apartment, or just have limited storage, this vacuum fits right in. Its compact size means it tucks away in a closet or corner without taking up much room, making it a practical choice for keeping your space tidy without the hassle of a bulky machine. One of its standout features is its lightweight build.
Weighing less than eight pounds, it’s easy to carry up stairs, from room to room, or even to your car if you need to move it between locations. This lightness combines with good maneuverability, allowing you to navigate around furniture legs and into tight spots without much effort. You won’t feel like your wrestling with a heavy appliance during a quick clean. Don’t let the small size fool you though. This model is built with powerful suction.
It’s designed to handle everyday debris, from crumbs and dust to pet hair, on both carpets and hard floors. The included Scatter-Free Technology aims to minimize the frustrating issue of debris blowing around on hard surfaces like tile or wood, helping you capture the mess in one pass instead of chasing it across the room. For areas that are a bit out of reach, the removable extension wand is a handy tool.
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 cleaning partner for your home. It focuses on core functionality, making the chore of vacuuming less of a burden with its thoughtful design and practical features. A key aspect of this vacuum is its POWERFUL ALL FLOOR SUCTION. It’s built to handle both carpets and hard floors without you needing to switch modes or adjust settings manually.
The 10.5-inch wide cleaning path means you cover more ground with each pass, helping you finish rooms faster. It’s particularly good at pulling up embedded dirt and pet hair from various surfaces, providing a consistant clean throughout your living space. Maneuverability and storage are where this model really shines. Weighing just 7.7 pounds, the NEU10AE5 is exceptionally LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY to carry up and down stairs or around furniture.
When you’re done, it’s compact shape tucks away neatly into a closet corner or a small utility space, which is a major plus for homes with limited storage. You won’t be tripping over it. For cleaning beyond the floor, the QUICK RELEASE HANDLE is a simple but game-changing feature.
Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, NEU10AE4, Green
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, NEU10AE4, is designed to make cleaning less of a chore. Its core advantage is right in the name: it’s incredibly light. At just 7.7 pounds, you can easily carry it up stairs, move it from room to room, or store it in a closet without any struggle. The compact design means it tucks away in even the smallest spaces, so it’s always ready when you need it. This vacuum doesn’t sacrifice power for its light weight.
With a 700-watt motor, it provides strong suction that works on all floor types. Whether you have hard floors, carpets, or a mix of both, it pulls up dirt and embedded hair effectively. The 10.5-inch wide cleaning path helps you cover more area with each pass, speeding up your routine. You’ll find it handles everyday messes with ease. A standout feature is the quick-release handle. You simply detach it from the main body for above-floor cleaning tasks.
The included crevice tool and dusting brush snap directly onto the end of this handle, putting them right at your fingertips. This lets you quickly tackle dust on blinds, clean upholstery, or reach into tight corners without searching for separate attachments. The tools store right on the vacuum, so they’re never lost. Maintenance is kept simple to save you time and money. It uses a bagless design, so you can empty the dirt cup as needed. More importantly, it contains one washable filter.
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 for homes that see a lot of activity, especially those with pets or kids. Its a powerful upright vacuum built to handle daily messes without making the job harder than it needs to be.
One of the standout features is the Triple Action Brush Roll.
This system works to loosen, lift, and remove dirt and stubborn pet hair thats ground into both carpets and hard floors. It works in tandem with the Multi-Cyclonic suction system, which helps maintain strong power by keeping the airflow clear. You’ll notice it doesn’t lose suction easily as the dirt tank fills up. For hard floors, the Scatter-Free Technology is a thoughtful addition.
It aims to capture debris on tile, wood, or laminate without blowing it around, so you’re not chasing dust bunnies across the room.
Maneuverability is a big focus here. The Swivel Steering lets you pivot smoothly around chair legs, under tables, and into tight corners with minimal effort. It significantly reduces the back-and-forth tugging common with stiff vacuums. When you need to clean above the floor, the new 2024 model includes an Active Extension Wand.
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful Suction, HEPA, Tangle-Free Brush Roll, 39883
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off, model 39883, is designed for homes with pets, focusing on removing hair and allergens without the typical hassle. Its core feature is powerful suction that tackles dirt, fur, and dust embedded in carpets and on floors. This isn’t just about surface cleaning; it’s about pulling debris out from deep down where it settles. A major highlight is the HEPA sealed allergen system. This is crucial for pet owners or anyone with sensitivities.
It traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum, sealing them in so they don’t get blown back out into the air you breathe. This means your cleaning session actually leaves the air cleaner, not just the floors. The large 1L easy empty dirt tank makes disposal simple—just a single touch releases the contents, minimizing your contact with dust and hair. Dealing with pet hair often means dealing with tangles.
The tangle-free brush roll is engineered to resist hair wrap, saving you the frustration of constantly cutting strands free from the roller. It’s built to handle hair and fur efficiently, so you spend less time maintaining the vacuum and more time using it. For hard floors, the scatter-free technology is a thoughtful addition. It uses strong suction and careful airflow to prevent kicking debris around, making a clean pass on tile or wood much more effective.
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 want a powerful clean without the heavy, cumbersome equipment. Its core advantage is it’s incredible lightweight build, coming in at under nine pounds. This makes carrying it up stairs or using it for extended periods far less of a chore compared to many traditional vacuums. This is a corded model, which means you never have to worry about battery life or a loss of suction during a cleaning session.
It provides consistent, powerful cleaning power on both carpets and hard floors. With simple fingertip controls, you can easily switch the brushroll on for carpets or off for bare floors, optimizing its performance for each surface without bending down. The swivel steering is a standout feature, giving you excellent control to navigate around chair legs, under tables, and through cluttered spaces with minimal effort. Beyond just floors, the Shark Rocket converts into a full handheld vacuum.
This versatility allows for true floor-to-ceiling cleaning. You can tackle stairs, upholstery, car interiors, and even ceiling corners with ease. Two specialized tools are included: an Upholstery Tool for sofas and chairs and a Crevice Tool for tight spots like along baseboards or in car seats. The convenience continues when you’re done. The dust cup is designed to be emptied quickly, getting you back to cleaning—or putting it away—in seconds.
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. This new model builds on a trusted name with specific upgrades aimed at improving your daily cleaning routine.
At its core is an Upgraded Cyclone System. This new technology is engineered to capture a wider range of debris, from larger particles to microscopic dust and allergens.
In fact, the system is designed to trap 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens as you clean, which can be a significant help for maintaining better indoor air quality. The powerful suction works to penetrate deep into carpet fibers to pull out embedded dirt that other vacuums might leave behind.
Despite this power, the PowerSpeed remains notably lightweight.
It’s built to do the heavy lifting so you don’t have too, making it easier to carry up stairs or use for longer periods without fatigue. You can easily adjust its performance for different surfaces with the 5 Height Settings. It glides from thick shag rugs to low-pile carpets and across delicate hard floors. The wheels are designed to run smoothly on hardwood to help prevent scratches and gouges during use.
For cleaning beyond the floor, this model includes multiple handy accessories.
Vacuum For Carpet And Hardwood Buying Guide
A vacuum for carpet and hardwood adjusts its brush and suction settings automatically. This smart feature is a game-changer, but it’s just the start. To find the perfect machine for your home, you’ll want to consider a few other key factors that make daily cleaning simpler and more effective.
Surface Detection & Brushroll Design
How does it know what floor it’s on? Look for models with true surface-sensing technology, not just a manual switch. The brushroll should instantly retract or stop spinning on hard floors to prevent scattering debris. For carpets, it needs to agitate deeply to pull out ground-in dirt. A combo brush that handles both hair and debris is ideal for homes with pets.
Maneuverability & Weight
You’ll be pushing this around furniture and into corners weekly. A lightweight, low-profile body is crucial for cleaning under beds and sofas. Check the swivel head action—does it turn on a dime? Also, consider the cord length if you’re looking at an upright; a short cord means constantly searching for new outlets, which gets old fast.
Filtration & Dust Management
What happens after the dirt is sucked up? A sealed HEPA filtration system is essential, especially if you have allergies. It traps dust and pollen inside the bin. Now, think about emptying that bin. Bagless models are convenient but can be messy. If you hate dealing with dust clouds, a self-sealing bag might be worth the extra cost.
Noise Level and Storage
Will it scare the dog every time you turn it on? Vacuums with quieter motors make cleaning less disruptive. Finally, consider your storage space. Does it stand upright on its own, or will you need wall space to mount it? A vacuum that’s easy to tuck away is one you’ll use more often, plain and simple.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vacuum For Carpet And Hardwood
What’s teh best type of vacuum for both carpets and hard floors?
Look for a versatile upright or canister vacuum. The key feature is a brush roll you can turn off for hard floors. This stops it from scattering debris. For carpets, you want that brush roll on to agitate and lift dirt. Many models now have automatic height adjustment too, which is really handy.
Do I need a special attachment for hardwood?
It’s a very good idea. A soft bristle brush or a dedicated hard floor attachment is gentler. It prevents scratches and does a better job of channeling dust into the suction path instead of swirling it around. Some vacuums include these tools, so check the box contents.
Is a bagged or bagless model better?
This is mostly about personal preference. Bagless models let you see the dirt and avoid buying bags. But, emptying them can be dusty. Bagged vacuums often hold more debris and contain allergens better when you change the bag. They both can work great on mixed floors.
How important is suction power?
Strong suction is crucial for deep carpet cleaning. But for hard floors, you often need less power to avoid sucking up small rugs or scattering litter. A vacuum with good suction control or multiple power settings gives you the flexibility you need for different surfaces in your home.
Can I use my old vacuum on my new hardwood floors?
You can, but be careful. Check if the brush roll can be shut off. If it can’t, the stiff bristles might scratch or mar the floor’s finish. Also, ensure any plastic wheels or parts on the vacuum head are clean and smooth to prevent marks.
What about weight and maneuverability?
Since you’ll be switching between rooms, a lighter vacuum is easier to carry up stairs. Good swivel steering helps you get around furniture. For hard floors, a vacuum that glides smoothly is a lot less tiring to push than one that drags.
How often should I vacuum each surface?
High-traffic carpets might need vacuuming a couple times a week. For hard floors, once a week is often enough to pick up dust and crumbs. Of course, if you have pets or kids, you might find yourself reaching for the vacuum more frequently no matter the floor type.
Final Take
One vacuum for all your floor types. It really does make life simpler. You won’t need to switch machines or worry about damaging different surfaces. A good dual-purpose model saves you time, money, and storage space. It’s a smart choice for most homes.
When you find teh right vacuum for carpet and hardwood, cleaning becomes much easier. You can quickly go from deep cleaning rugs to gently sweeping hard floors. It handles your whole house without any fuss. Just look for the key features we discussed, and you’ll be set with a reliable tool for years to come. Your floors will thank you.