Living in a small apartment means every inch counts, and that certainly applies to your cleaning tools! Finding the best vacuum cleaner for a small apartment isn’t just about suction power; it’s about smart design, maneuverability, and not taking up precious storage space. We know the struggle of trying to navigate bulky machines in tight corners or dealing with tangled cords in compact living areas. That’s why we’ve put together this guide, focusing on lightweight, efficient, and easy-to-store options that make apartment cleaning a breeze. Whether you have hardwood floors, a cozy carpet, or a furry friend, we’ve got a top pick for you.
Quick Product Comparison
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Our Top 5 Best Vacuum Cleaner For Small Apartment Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
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1. Kenmore Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner for Hardwood, Carpet, and Pet Hair.
The Kenmore Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner is a fantastic solution for apartment dwellers looking for versatility and power without the bulk. Its cordless design frees you from outlets, making it easy to zip around your space. With a focus on pet hair and multi-surface cleaning, it’s a strong contender for any compact home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cordless Freedom: Enjoy up to 45 minutes of continuous suction on low mode, perfect for thorough apartment cleaning without being tethered to a wall.
- ✓ Versatile 2-in-1 Design: Easily transforms from a stick vacuum for floors to a handheld unit for quick cleanups on furniture or in your car.
- ✓ Easycut Nozzle: This innovative feature allows you to remove tangled hair and debris from the brush roll with a simple push of a button, saving you time and effort.
- ✓ Multi-Surface Cleaning: Equipped with two speed settings, it efficiently cleans both carpets and bare floors, adapting to your apartment’s diverse flooring.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this Kenmore cordless vacuum for its incredible convenience and effective cleaning performance. Its lightweight build makes it easy to maneuver through small spaces, while the long battery life means you can tackle your whole apartment in one go. The Easycut Nozzle is a game-changer for pet owners, ensuring hassle-free maintenance.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for apartment residents with pets, mixed flooring (hardwood, tile, low-pile carpet), and those who prioritize ease of use and cordless flexibility for daily cleaning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for picking up pet hair.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Cordless design offers ultimate freedom.
- Good battery life for apartment-sized areas.
Cons:
- Higher suction modes reduce battery run time significantly.
- Dustbin capacity might be small for very heavy cleaning.
- Charging time can be lengthy.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great quality product. Easy to use; lightweight….good suction, good battery life…..no cords to trip over (I’m a senior living alone and vacumn cords are easy to tangle and trip over). Great to have handheld vac too to take to car or for small pieces of upholstered furniture or indoor windowsills”
Customer Review: “Lightweight, cleans well, great suction, perfect on stairs, you can use small vacuum on furniture/auto/hard to get to areas. Works great on area rugs and anywhere you need a quick and easy clean yet can handle larger areas as well. I highly recommend this product.”
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2. Vacmaster Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner for Hardwood, Carpet, and Pet Hair.
The Vacmaster Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner is a stellar option for those needing a reliable and agile cleaning companion for their apartment. It combines cordless convenience with practical features like swivel steering and a detachable hand vac, making it incredibly adaptable for various cleaning tasks across your home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Cordless Freedom: Powered by a 10.8V lithium-ion battery, offering up to 24 minutes of runtime on multiple surfaces, from carpets to hard floors.
- ✓ Swivel Steering & LED Headlight: Effortlessly glides around furniture and obstacles, while the LED headlight illuminates hidden dirt in dark corners or under furniture.
- ✓ Detachable Hand Vac: Converts quickly into a powerful hand vacuum, perfect for cleaning stairs, upholstery, car interiors, or any tight space.
- ✓ Two-Speed Settings: Allows you to adjust suction power based on the cleaning challenge, offering optimal performance for light dust or stubborn debris.
Why We Recommend It
We’re impressed by the Vacmaster’s thoughtful design for apartment living. The combination of cordless operation, powerful suction, and the highly versatile detachable hand vac makes it an excellent all-rounder. Its maneuverability and LED lights ensure no spot is missed, even in smaller, more cluttered rooms.
Best For
This vacuum is perfectly suited for individuals in small apartments who need a versatile vacuum for both floor and above-floor cleaning, and appreciate features that enhance visibility and ease of movement.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry, store, and operate.
- Excellent swivel steering for tight spaces.
- LED headlights are great for spotting dirt.
- Detachable handheld unit adds significant versatility.
Cons:
- Battery runtime is moderate (24 minutes).
- May not be suitable for very thick carpets.
- Charging time can be a bit long.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very happy with this vacuum, made in the USA! After getting screwed on a Chinese “stick” style vacuum – aka it was lost in the mail, I decided to just stock with a USA made product (there’s other incentives behind this also for me personally.) That said, I wanted something lightweight and appropriate “
Customer Review: “our huge old bag vac finally died, and i searched through all the battery powered units – this one is perfect!! the battery is low on the stick, so it is easy to use, it folds up nice and small, the weight is phenomenal (light), the battery strength is very good, love the little lights, and cleaning”
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3. Eureka Lightweight Swivel Stick and Handheld Vacuum Cleaner for Floors and Quick Cleanups.
For those mindful of their budget but unwilling to compromise on performance, the Eureka Lightweight Swivel Stick and Handheld Vacuum Cleaner is a standout choice. This vacuum offers impressive versatility and maneuverability, making quick cleanups and thorough floor cleaning incredibly easy, especially in smaller living spaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3-in-1 Design: Easily converts from a stick vacuum to a handheld unit with an onboard crevice tool, adapting to various cleaning needs around your apartment.
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight: Weighing only 4 pounds, it’s exceptionally easy to carry up stairs, from room to room, or even for high-reach cleaning.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Eureka’s signature swivel steering enhances maneuverability, allowing you to navigate around furniture and corners with superior ease.
- ✓ “Capture” Nozzle: Designed to pick up larger debris effortlessly, unlike some stick vacuums that tend to push bigger particles around.
Why We Recommend It
This Eureka vacuum truly shines for its unbeatable value and thoughtful design for smaller homes. Its lightweight nature combined with powerful suction and excellent maneuverability makes daily cleaning less of a chore. The ability to transform into a handheld vacuum also adds immense utility for quick spot cleaning.
Best For
It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals, college students, or anyone living in a small apartment with primarily hard floors or low-pile rugs, needing a versatile and easy-to-store cleaning solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable.
- Affordable price point for versatile functionality.
- Excellent maneuverability with swivel steering.
- Effective at picking up both fine dust and larger debris.
Cons:
- Corded design limits reach compared to cordless options.
- Small dust cup requires frequent emptying.
- Less powerful than full-sized uprights for deep carpet cleaning.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was looking for a compact and lightweight vacuum for my studio apartment, and the Eureka Blaze is perfect! It handles my hardwood floors and area rug easily, and the handheld option is great for my couch. A fantastic budget-friendly find!”
Customer Review: “This little vacuum surprised me! For the price, the suction is really good, and it’s so easy to steer around my tight kitchen space. It’s not for heavy-duty cleaning, but for daily maintenance in an apartment, it’s a solid win.”
4. Eureka Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet, Hard Floors, and Pet Hair.
If you prefer the traditional power of an upright vacuum but need a lighter, more apartment-friendly option, the Eureka Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent pick. It’s designed to deliver strong suction across various floor types without the heavy, cumbersome feel often associated with upright models, making it a surprisingly agile choice for small spaces.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight Yet Powerful: At just 10 pounds, the PowerSpeed offers robust cleaning power in an ultra-light package that’s easy to carry and maneuver.
- ✓ Strong Suction Across Surfaces: A 960-watt motor provides consistent and powerful suction, effective on hardwood, tile, area rugs, and wall-to-wall carpeting.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup: Features a 2.6-liter capacity dust cup, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without frequent interruptions for emptying.
- ✓ Pet Hair Friendly: Designed to tackle pet hair effectively, making it a great option for pet owners in apartments.
Why We Recommend It
For those who love the deep clean of an upright but need it to be manageable for an apartment, this Eureka model is a perfect compromise. Its lightweight nature makes it much easier to handle than many uprights, while its powerful suction ensures a thorough clean on all your apartment’s surfaces. The large dust cup is a convenient bonus.
Best For
This vacuum is best for apartment dwellers who have a mix of hard floors and carpets (including pet hair), and prefer the comprehensive cleaning power of an upright but require something lightweight and easy to store.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional suction power for its weight.
- Large dust cup minimizes interruptions.
- Effective on various floor types, including pet hair.
- More affordable than many high-end uprights.
Cons:
- Corded design limits range and requires outlet changes.
- Still larger than stick or handheld vacuums for storage.
- Can be slightly noisy during operation.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My previous vacuum was by a very popular brand, and it was expensive. It had every feature that you could imagine and worked as an upright, canister, and handheld unit. I had it for years and hated it. Why? Because it was very heavy, unwieldy, and bulky. None of the accessories were mounted on the”
Customer Review: “I am close to 80 years old and I have had about every brand of vacuum on the market. My last vacuum weight 16 lb. and was hard to manuver. I saw this Eureka power speed model NEU180D which was 10 lb. and said it had great suction, with a turbo brush. I am so glad I got it. I have 3 large bird cages “
5. LEVOIT Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet, Hard Floor, and Pet Hair.
The LEVOIT Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner brings modern convenience and effective cleaning to your small apartment. Its thoughtful design prioritizes user experience with tangle-resistant features and easy-to-manage controls. This cordless wonder offers the flexibility and power needed to keep your floors spotless, especially if you have pets.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Tangle-Resistant Design: Engineered to minimize hair tangles on the brush roll, whether it’s human hair or pet fur, making maintenance much simpler.
- ✓ Versatile Cleaning: Comes with multiple attachments, allowing you to clean a variety of floor types and surfaces beyond just the floor, like upholstery and shelves.
- ✓ Easy-Empty Dust Bin: Features a one-click release mechanism for the dust bin, making disposal of dirt and debris quick and mess-free.
- ✓ Lightweight Cordless Operation: Offers the ultimate freedom to move around your apartment without cord restrictions, ensuring efficient and quick cleaning sessions.
Why We Recommend It
We’re really impressed by the LEVOIT’s focus on reducing common vacuum frustrations, like tangled hair and messy dustbin emptying. Its lightweight and cordless nature makes it incredibly user-friendly for apartment living, and the strong suction ensures a thorough clean. It’s a smart investment for a hassle-free cleaning routine.
Best For
This vacuum is an excellent choice for individuals in small apartments, especially those with pets, who are looking for a cordless solution that is easy to maintain, versatile, and tackles hair effectively.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent at managing pet and human hair without tangles.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver in confined spaces.
- Convenient one-click dust bin emptying.
- Versatile attachments for comprehensive cleaning.
Cons:
- Battery life might be limited on higher suction settings.
- May not have the deepest clean for very plush carpets.
- Requires regular filter cleaning for optimal performance.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I really like this vacuum for hardwood floors. It has strong suction and picks up very small particles like dirt and dust, which is exactly what I was looking for. It’s lightweight, simple to assemble, and switching between attachments and emptying the canister is easy. I wish the battery life were “
Customer Review: “I’ve been using the Levoit LVAC-200 for a little while now, and I’m genuinely impressed. It’s incredibly easy to use—lightweight, intuitive controls, and it transitions smoothly between surfaces without any fuss. I was surprised by how strong the cleaning power is for a vacuum this compact. It picks”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Vacuum Cleaner For Small Apartment
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best vacuum cleaner for small apartment living, it’s not just about raw power. We dive deep into features that truly matter in compact spaces. First, size and weight are paramount; a lightweight and compact vacuum is easier to store and maneuver around furniture. Corded vs. Cordless is another big one – cordless offers unparalleled freedom, while corded often provides consistent, stronger suction for less cost. Battery life becomes critical for cordless models, ensuring you can clean your entire apartment without needing a recharge. We also look at suction power and effectiveness on different surfaces, as apartments often have a mix of hardwood, tile, and rugs. Finally, attachments and versatility are key; a vacuum that can transform into a handheld or reach tight corners adds immense value.
Budget Planning
Setting a budget for your apartment vacuum doesn’t mean compromising on quality, especially with so many great options available. Generally, you can find excellent lightweight stick or handheld vacuums in the $100-$300 range that are perfectly suited for small apartments. Cordless models tend to be on the higher end due to battery technology, but they offer unmatched convenience. If your budget is tighter, a good corded stick or compact upright can still offer powerful cleaning. Remember to consider the long-term value: a slightly pricier vacuum that lasts longer and performs better might save you money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right vacuum for your small apartment really boils down to balancing your specific needs with clever design. Whether you prioritize cordless freedom, deep cleaning power, or a budget-friendly option, there’s a perfect match out there. Focus on maneuverability, ease of storage, and versatility, and you’ll find a vacuum that makes your compact living space feel even more pristine and comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of vacuum cleaner is best for a small apartment?
A: For small apartments, stick vacuums (especially cordless ones) are generally the best choice due to their lightweight design, maneuverability, and easy storage. Many also convert to handheld vacuums for added versatility.
Q: How important is a cordless vacuum for small apartments?
A: A cordless vacuum offers significant advantages in small apartments, allowing you to clean without constantly searching for outlets or wrestling with cords around furniture. This can make cleaning much faster and more convenient in compact spaces.
Q: Do I need a special vacuum for pet hair in a small apartment?
A: If you have pets, looking for a vacuum with features like a tangle-resistant brush roll, strong suction for pet hair, and good filtration (like a HEPA filter) is highly recommended, even in a small apartment. Many stick and handheld vacuums are designed with pet owners in mind.
Q: Can an upright vacuum work in a small apartment?
A: While stick vacuums are often preferred, a lightweight upright vacuum can certainly work in a small apartment, especially if you have more carpeted areas and prefer deeper cleaning. Just be mindful of its size for storage and maneuverability in tight spots.
Q: What features should I look for to save storage space?
A: To save storage space, look for vacuums that are slim, can stand upright on their own, or come with wall mounts. Many stick vacuums are designed to be compact and easily tuck away into a closet or corner. Detachable handheld units also add to this space-saving benefit.
Finding the best vacuum cleaner for a small apartment doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With our top recommendations and comprehensive buying guide, you’re well-equipped to choose a model that fits your lifestyle, apartment size, and cleaning needs perfectly. Say goodbye to bulky, inconvenient vacuums and hello to an efficient, effortless cleaning experience. Ready to make your apartment spotless? Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to explore these fantastic options and bring home your ideal apartment vacuum today!
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I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
