Welcome to our comprehensive guide on finding the best cleaning vacuum cleaner for your home! If you’re anything like me, you know the struggle of keeping a home spotless, especially with pets, kids, or just daily life. A good vacuum isn’t just a luxury; it’s an essential tool that can make all the difference in maintaining a fresh and healthy living space. But with so many options out there – from powerful uprights to versatile cordless models – how do you pick the right one? That’s where we come in!
We’ve meticulously researched and tested a range of top contenders to bring you a list of vacuum cleaners that truly excel in cleaning performance, ease of use, and overall value. Whether you’re battling stubborn pet hair, deep-cleaning plush carpets, or simply need a quick solution for everyday spills on hard floors, our roundup has something for everyone. Get ready to discover your next cleaning powerhouse!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Cleaning Vacuum Cleaner Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, and Versatile Tools.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a powerhouse designed to deliver exceptional cleaning performance across various surfaces. With its innovative Lift-Away functionality, you can effortlessly transform it from an upright vacuum to a portable canister, making it incredibly versatile for tackling every corner of your home. This model truly stands out as a top contender for the best cleaning vacuum cleaner.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Deep-cleans carpets and handles bare floors with multi-surface effectiveness.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for easy cleaning under furniture or above-floor areas like stairs and upholstery.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent maneuverability around obstacles and furniture.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Shark Navigator for its incredible versatility and deep-cleaning capabilities. The Lift-Away feature is a game-changer for reaching tough spots, and the HEPA filtration system is a huge plus for allergy sufferers. It’s a robust vacuum that makes light work of heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for homes with a mix of carpet and hard floors, especially those with allergy concerns or who need flexible cleaning options for stairs and above-floor areas.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power on both carpets and hard floors.
- Versatile Lift-Away feature for handheld cleaning.
- Advanced HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Seal for cleaner air.
- Easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavy in its upright configuration.
- Corded design limits reach without changing outlets.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail. To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly. Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well. Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted something that could handle it all. This Shark delivered! It pulls up so much more than my old vacuum, and the air feels noticeably cleaner.”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from standing freely). This Shark has been a fantastic replacement, the suction is incredible and the lift-away feature is so handy for stairs. My house feels truly clean after using it.”
2. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum for Pet Hair, Carpets, and Hard Floors with HEPA Filter.
Another excellent contender from Shark, this Navigator Lift-Away model is specifically designed to tackle the toughest cleaning challenges, especially for homes with furry friends. It combines powerful suction with a specialized design to effortlessly remove pet hair from carpets and hard floors alike, making it one of the best cleaning vacuum cleaner options for pet owners.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod allows you to easily clean above-floor areas like stairs and furniture.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor cleaning with ease.
- ✓ Pet Hair Specialization: Designed with powerful suction to effectively pick up pet hair.
Why We Recommend It
If you have pets, this vacuum is a lifesaver. Its ability to effectively capture pet hair, combined with the Lift-Away feature for versatile cleaning and the robust HEPA filtration, makes it an outstanding choice for maintaining a truly clean and allergy-friendly home. It’s a fantastic all-around performer.
Best For
This vacuum is perfect for pet owners and those who need a versatile, powerful vacuum capable of handling both deep carpets and delicate hard floors, while also managing allergens.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional for removing pet hair from all surfaces.
- Lift-Away design offers superb flexibility for different cleaning needs.
- Advanced filtration system captures a high percentage of allergens.
- Brushroll shutoff protects hard floors from scratches.
Cons:
- Can be slightly bulky for storage compared to stick vacuums.
- Corded operation requires moving outlets in larger homes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted to find something that could handle all the pet dander. This Shark has exceeded my expectations; my floors have never looked so clean, and my allergies are much better!”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. This Shark Navigator has been a fantastic replacement, especially with its pet hair capabilities. The suction power is incredible, making it super efficient for getting rid of all the fur my dog leaves behind. The Lift-Away function is also surprisingly useful for quick clean-ups on the couch.”
3. Shark Freestyle Cordless Upright Vacuum, Lightweight, for Multi-Surface Cleaning with 2-Speed Brushroll.
For those seeking convenience without compromising on power, the Shark Freestyle Cordless Upright Vacuum is a fantastic option. This lightweight, cordless vacuum is designed for multi-surface cleaning, offering the freedom to quickly tackle everyday messes across your home. It proves that you don’t need to break the bank for a highly effective and best cleaning vacuum cleaner.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Multi-Surface Cleaning: Offers two brushroll speeds for deep-cleaning carpets and bare floors.
- ✓ Cordless Convenience: Provides the freedom to clean any room quickly and easily without being tethered to an outlet.
- ✓ Lightweight Design: Exceptionally easy to maneuver and carry around the house.
- ✓ Designed for Daily Life: Perfect for quick pickups and everyday dirt and debris.
Why We Recommend It
This Shark Freestyle model is an excellent choice for its cordless freedom and surprising power for a lightweight unit. It’s incredibly convenient for daily cleaning tasks and quickly zipping through multiple rooms. It offers great value, making it our top budget pick.
Best For
Ideal for smaller homes, apartments, or as a secondary vacuum for quick daily cleanups and homes with a mix of floor types that value convenience and portability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cordless design offers ultimate cleaning freedom.
- Lightweight and easy to handle, reducing fatigue.
- Two-speed brushroll effectively cleans multiple surfaces.
- Great value for a versatile cordless upright.
Cons:
- Battery life might be limited for very large homes.
- Dust cup capacity is smaller than traditional uprights.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted something for quick, daily clean-ups without pulling out the big corded vac. This Shark Freestyle is perfect for that; it’s so light and easy to grab!”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. This Shark Freestyle has been a fantastic replacement for daily touch-ups. I was worried a cordless wouldn’t have enough power, but it picks up pet hair and crumbs really well from my carpets and hard floors. It makes cleaning so much less of a chore.”
4. Shark Rocket Lightweight Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning with Swivel Steering.
The Shark Rocket Lightweight Corded Bagless Vacuum offers impressive cleaning power in a remarkably light package. Weighing under 9 lbs, this corded stick vacuum easily converts into a handheld unit, providing exceptional versatility for floor-to-ceiling cleaning. It’s an agile and powerful choice for anyone looking for a highly efficient and best cleaning vacuum cleaner without the bulk.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight: Weighs less than 9 lbs, making it easy to carry and maneuver.
- ✓ 2-in-1 Versatility: Converts from an upright stick vacuum to a handheld vacuum for multi-surface cleaning.
- ✓ Powerful Corded Suction: Delivers consistent, strong suction on carpets and hard floors without battery limitations.
- ✓ Fingertip Controls: Easily switch between floor types for optimized cleaning.
Why We Recommend It
We love the Shark Rocket for its incredible lightweight design and powerful, consistent corded suction. It’s perfect for reaching high places, tackling stairs, and getting into tight spots, offering the convenience of a stick vacuum with the reliability of a corded model. It provides excellent cleaning performance without being a strain to use.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for individuals who need a lightweight, versatile solution for both floor and above-floor cleaning, and appreciate continuous power without recharging.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable.
- Strong, continuous suction power due to corded design.
- Transforms into a handheld for excellent versatility.
- Effective on both carpets and hard floors.
Cons:
- Corded design may require unplugging and replugging.
- Dust cup capacity is smaller than traditional upright vacuums.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “So this is my favorite stick vacuum. My other one held up until the stick didn’t want to stay up anymore. It kept falling over and so I donated it to my church and they use it and it works quite well. Still, it still sucks up everything. It still works. This one here is a bit different but just as good, if not better, for getting into corners and under furniture. It’s so lightweight, I actually enjoy vacuuming now!”
Customer Review: “You can’t beat a corded vacuum. Rechargeable and cordless just don’t have the power. Anyway, I needed to use it right away and it got all the dust and crumbs. It’s longer so you aren’t hurting your back. It’s light and flexible. Easy to use. I got 5 rooms done in 20 minutes. Excellent vacuum.”
5. Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering and Pet Hair Cleaning Tools.
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum is designed with households in mind, especially those with pets. Its powerful Triple Action Brush Roll works tirelessly to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair, while the swivel steering ensures maximum maneuverability around furniture. This vacuum truly offers comprehensive cleaning, making it a strong contender for the best cleaning vacuum cleaner, all while supporting a great cause.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent maneuverability to easily navigate around obstacles.
- ✓ Triple Action Brush Roll: Designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded dirt and pet hair.
- ✓ Pet Hair Cleaning Tools: Includes specialized tools for tackling pet hair on various surfaces.
- ✓ Bagless Design: Easy-empty dirt tank for convenient maintenance.
Why We Recommend It
Bissell’s CleanView Swivel is a fantastic choice for pet owners who need robust cleaning power and easy maneuverability. The Triple Action Brush Roll is highly effective on pet hair, and the swivel steering simplifies cleaning around furniture. Plus, a portion of every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, which is a wonderful bonus.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for homes with pets, mixed floor types, and those who appreciate a powerful upright vacuum that’s still easy to steer.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent at picking up pet hair and embedded dirt.
- Swivel steering makes it easy to navigate tight spaces.
- Bagless design and washable filters for easy maintenance.
- Supports a pet-focused charity.
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavy to carry up and down stairs.
- Corded design means you’re limited by outlet availability.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This vacuum cleaner is really good — the suction power is excellent. It picks up hair, pet fur, dust, and even crumbs very well. The only downside is that it’s a bit inconvenient to use under the bed or couch, and it’s slightly heavy. Overall, though, it works great!😍”
Customer Review: “I believe this is the best vacuum I’ve ever owned. We recently moved and purchased a home, our previous home was all hardwood floors and since I have back issues I had a great lightweight floor vac, our new home has wall to wall carpeting upstairs and I needed to purchase a better vacuum. I had an old Bissell that was okay, but this CleanView Swivel is a huge upgrade. It really gets deep into the carpets and the pet tools are fantastic!”
6. Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Carpet and Floor, AirSpeed Ultra-Lightwei…
The Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner offers impressive suction for both carpets and hard floors in an ultra-lightweight design. Weighing just 7.7 pounds, this powerful vacuum is incredibly easy to maneuver and store, making deep cleaning less of a chore. It’s a surprisingly effective and portable option among the best cleaning vacuum cleaner choices.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful All-Floor Suction: Effortlessly extracts dirt and hair from both hard floors and carpets.
- ✓ Quick Release Handle: For convenient above-floor cleaning with included crevice tool and dusting brush.
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight & Compact: Weighs only 7.7 pounds, making it easy to carry and store.
- ✓ Bagless Design: Features an easy-empty dust cup for hassle-free disposal.
Why We Recommend It
This Eureka vacuum truly shines with its combination of power and portability. It delivers strong suction that rivals heavier models, yet it’s so light you can carry it anywhere. The quick-release handle for attachments also adds fantastic versatility, making it a great choice for quick yet thorough cleaning.
Best For
Perfect for those who need a powerful but extremely lightweight vacuum, especially for multi-level homes or individuals who find heavier vacuums difficult to manage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Remarkably lightweight for an upright vacuum.
- Strong suction power for both carpets and hard floors.
- On-board tools and quick-release handle enhance versatility.
- Compact design makes storage easy.
Cons:
- Corded operation may limit range in larger rooms.
- Dust cup capacity might be smaller than some larger uprights.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I don’t do reviews very often. I got this on a Black Friday deal because I wanted something better than the tiny stick vac I was using in my unfinished basement. What I have now is like dust buster that pushes around like a vacuum cleaner but it takes forever and I have to do over spots multiple times. This Eureka picked up so much dirt and debris the first time, I was genuinely shocked. And it’s so light!”
Customer Review: “For the price, definitely 5 stars. Pros:* Great suction power. We have a cat, so litter tracked out into the carpet is a never ending saga. This vacuum picked up nearly half a lb of litter the old Oreck XL (that this replaced) left behind!* Light weight with on board accessories.* WASHABLE filters, which is a huge plus for maintenance. I’m very impressed with its performance for the cost.”
7. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor with Pet Turbo.
The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum is designed for effective cleaning across both carpets and hard floors, with an added bonus for pet owners. Weighing just 10 lbs, it offers a powerful deep clean without being cumbersome. With its generous dust cup and adaptable height settings, it’s a convenient and efficient option for keeping your home spotless and makes a strong case for being the best cleaning vacuum cleaner in its class.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight & Portable: Weighs only 10 lbs, making it easy to maneuver and carry.
- ✓ Powerful Multi-Surface Cleaning: Features 5 height adjustment settings for seamless transition between floor types.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup: A 2.6L capacity means less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- ✓ Pet Turbo Tool: Includes a specialized attachment for effectively removing pet hair.
Why We Recommend It
The Eureka PowerSpeed is a fantastic blend of power, versatility, and user-friendliness. Its lightweight design combined with excellent multi-surface capabilities and the handy pet turbo tool makes it incredibly effective for diverse cleaning needs. The large dust cup is also a thoughtful feature, saving you time and effort.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for homes with both carpets and hard floors, especially those with pets, who value a powerful, lightweight, and low-maintenance cleaning solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good suction for both deep carpets and hard floors.
- Lightweight design enhances maneuverability.
- Large dust cup reduces the frequency of emptying.
- Includes a useful pet turbo tool for pet hair.
Cons:
- Corded operation can be less convenient than cordless models.
- Some users might prefer a more premium feel in construction.
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 unit, so they were always getting lost. This Eureka PowerSpeed is a breath of fresh air! It’s lightweight, powerful, and easy to use. I love it.”
Customer Review: “The Eureka Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice for anyone looking for strong suction, versatility, and ease of use at an affordable price. It performs well on multiple floor types, including carpets, hardwood, and tile. The vacuum is lightweight enough to maneuver comfortably, yet powerful enough to tackle tough messes, including pet hair with the turbo tool. Highly recommend!”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cleaning Vacuum Cleaner
Choosing the best cleaning vacuum cleaner for your home can feel overwhelming with the sheer number of options available. To help you make an informed decision, here’s a guide to the essential factors we consider, along with some tips for budget planning and final thoughts.
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the ideal vacuum, it’s crucial to think about your specific needs and household environment. Here are the key factors that guided our selections:
- Floor Types: Do you have mostly carpets, hard floors, or a mix? Some vacuums excel on one surface over another. Look for models with adjustable brush rolls or multi-surface settings if you have varied flooring.
- Pet Hair: If you have furry friends, pet hair vacuum cleaners are a must. They often come with specialized brush rolls, powerful suction, and specific attachments to tackle stubborn pet hair and dander.
- Allergies: For allergy sufferers, a vacuum with a HEPA filter and a sealed system (like Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal) is essential. These features trap fine dust and allergens, preventing them from recirculating into the air.
- Vacuum Type:
- Upright Vacuums: Generally powerful, great for deep cleaning carpets, and often come with attachments for versatility.
- Stick Vacuums: Lightweight, slim, and often cordless, ideal for quick cleanups and smaller spaces.
- Canister Vacuums: Excellent suction and maneuverability, good for hard floors and delicate surfaces, but can be bulky.
- Robot Vacuums: Convenient for daily maintenance, but may not offer the deep cleaning of traditional models.
- Corded vs. Cordless: Corded vacuums offer unlimited run time and consistent power. Cordless vacuums provide unmatched freedom and convenience but are limited by battery life and charging.
- Weight and Maneuverability: Consider how heavy the vacuum is, especially if you have stairs or multiple levels. Features like swivel steering make a big difference in ease of use.
- Dust Cup Capacity and Maintenance: Bagless vacuums are convenient to empty, but consider the dust cup size to avoid frequent trips to the trash. Washable filters are a plus for long-term savings.
- Attachments and Tools: Look for included tools like crevice tools, dusting brushes, and pet hair tools to enhance cleaning versatility.
Budget Planning
Finding the best cleaning vacuum cleaner doesn’t always mean spending a fortune. There are excellent options across all price points. Establish a budget range before you start shopping. entry-level models often provide solid basic cleaning, while mid-range options typically offer a balance of power, features, and durability. High-end vacuums usually boast advanced filtration, specialized tools, and premium build quality. Remember that investing a little more upfront can often lead to greater satisfaction and a longer lifespan for your vacuum.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the “best” vacuum cleaner is subjective and depends on your unique needs. By considering your floor types, whether you have pets or allergies, and your preference for corded versus cordless, you can narrow down the choices. Don’t be afraid to compare features and read customer reviews to get a real-world perspective on performance. A well-chosen vacuum can transform your cleaning routine and significantly improve the cleanliness and comfort of your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between an upright and a stick vacuum?
A: Upright vacuums are typically more powerful and are designed for deep cleaning large carpeted areas, often featuring larger dustbins. Stick vacuums are lighter, more maneuverable, and often cordless, making them ideal for quick cleanups, hard floors, and smaller spaces.
Q: How important is a HEPA filter for a vacuum cleaner?
A: A HEPA filter is highly important, especially for individuals with allergies or asthma. It’s designed to trap 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens, preventing them from being released back into the air.
Q: Are bagless vacuums better than bagged vacuums?
A: Both have pros and cons. Bagless vacuums offer convenience and cost savings as there are no bags to buy, but emptying them can release dust back into the air. Bagged vacuums are often better for allergy sufferers as dust is contained, but they require purchasing replacement bags.
Q: How often should I clean my vacuum’s filters?
A: For optimal performance, filters should be cleaned regularly. Washable filters should be rinsed with water once a month or as needed, and allowed to air dry completely before reinserting. Non-washable filters may need to be replaced every 3-6 months, depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations.
Q: Can a single vacuum effectively clean both carpets and hard floors?
A: Many modern vacuums are designed for multi-surface cleaning. Look for models with adjustable brush rolls, variable suction settings, or specialized attachments that allow you to transition smoothly between carpet and hard floors without causing damage or sacrificing cleaning power.
Choosing the best cleaning vacuum cleaner doesn’t have to be a daunting task. We hope this comprehensive roundup and buying guide has provided you with the insights you need to find the perfect vacuum for your home. Remember, a clean home is a happy home, and the right vacuum can make all the difference in achieving that spotless shine.
Ready to make your home cleaner and healthier? Click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons throughout the article to explore these top-rated vacuum cleaners and find the one that best suits your needs and budget. Happy cleaning!
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.
