Finding the best vacuum cleaner for home use can feel like a daunting task with so many options available today. Whether you’re battling stubborn pet hair, navigating a mix of hardwood floors and plush carpets, or simply looking for an efficient tool to keep your living space pristine, a reliable vacuum is an indispensable ally. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve meticulously tested and reviewed some of the top contenders to help you make an informed decision for your home cleaning needs. Get ready to discover a vacuum that will transform your cleaning routine!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Vacuum Cleaner For Home Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, and Cleaning Tools.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a versatile upright vacuum cleaner designed to tackle a variety of messes on different surfaces. Its powerful suction makes it a fantastic choice for both deep-cleaning carpets and effectively handling bare floors, ensuring your home cleaning is thorough. The innovative Lift-Away feature provides incredible flexibility, allowing you to clean hard-to-reach areas with ease.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Delivers robust cleaning power across multiple floor types, from thick carpets to delicate hard floors.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Easily detach the canister to clean under furniture, on stairs, or above-floor surfaces.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Combined with a HEPA filter, it traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent maneuverability to navigate around furniture and into tight corners effortlessly.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away for its exceptional versatility and powerful cleaning performance. Its ability to transform from an upright to a portable canister vacuum means you get two cleaners in one, making it ideal for comprehensive home cleaning. Plus, the advanced allergen filtration system is a huge bonus for anyone dealing with allergies or pets.
Best For
This vacuum is best for homes with mixed flooring, allergy sufferers, and those who need a versatile cleaner to handle both floor and above-floor messes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power on carpets and hard floors.
- Unique Lift-Away design for flexible, portable cleaning.
- HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Seal are perfect for allergy sufferers.
- Smooth swivel steering enhances maneuverability.
Cons:
- Can be a bit top-heavy when using the Lift-Away feature.
- Corded design limits reach and requires outlet changes.
- May feel somewhat bulky for very small storage spaces.
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”
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 st”
2. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, and Pet Hair Tools.
If you share your home with furry friends, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Pet Hair Tools is designed with you in mind. This powerful upright vacuum combines robust suction with specialized attachments, making it a standout choice for managing pet hair and dander. It ensures a comprehensive clean for all areas of your home, keeping allergens at bay.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ LIFT-AWAY Functionality: Detachable pod allows for easy cleaning of stairs, furniture, and other above-floor areas.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal: Paired with a HEPA filter, it traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, ideal for pet owners.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Conveniently switch off the brushroll for gentle cleaning on bare floors and delicate rugs.
- ✓ Pet Hair Tools: Includes specialized attachments to effectively remove embedded pet hair from upholstery and carpets.
Why We Recommend It
This Shark Navigator is an absolute game-changer for homes with pets. Its powerful suction combined with the dedicated pet tools makes quick work of shedding, while the anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter ensure that dander and dust are trapped, promoting cleaner air. The versatility of the Lift-Away feature also means no corner of your home is left untouched.
Best For
This is the best vacuum cleaner for home environments with pets, especially those with multiple animals or allergy sufferers, offering superior pet hair removal and allergen control.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent at picking up pet hair from various surfaces.
- Advanced anti-allergen filtration system for cleaner air.
- Versatile Lift-Away mode for detailed and above-floor cleaning.
- Brushroll shutoff protects delicate flooring.
Cons:
- Still a corded model, requiring plug changes.
- Can feel a bit heavy during extended cleaning sessions.
- The dust cup may need frequent emptying in high-shed 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”
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 st”
3. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum: HEPA Anti-Allergen Filter, Swivel Steering, and Tools for All Floors.
For those seeking powerful performance without breaking the bank, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away stands out as a top contender for the best vacuum cleaner for home on a budget. This model offers the core features that make Shark vacuums so popular, ensuring effective cleaning across various floor types and providing excellent allergen filtration, making it a smart investment for your home cleaning arsenal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ LIFT-AWAY Functionality: Provides the convenience of a detachable pod for portable cleaning, tackling areas beyond your floors.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Works in conjunction with a HEPA filter to capture dust and allergens efficiently.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Allows for effortless navigation around furniture and obstacles, enhancing maneuverability.
- ✓ Multi-Floor Tools: Comes with attachments suitable for effectively cleaning carpets, hardwood, and other surfaces.
Why We Recommend It
This Shark Navigator is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a high-performing vacuum without a premium price tag. It delivers consistent, powerful suction and the crucial Lift-Away feature, which adds immense value and versatility. The HEPA filtration system is a major plus, especially for budget-conscious individuals who still prioritize indoor air quality.
Best For
It’s best for budget-conscious buyers who need a versatile, powerful upright vacuum with strong allergen filtration for general home cleaning across multiple floor types.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great value for money, offering premium features at an affordable price.
- Effective HEPA filtration for trapping allergens and dust.
- Versatile Lift-Away mode allows for above-floor and detailed cleaning.
- Good suction on both carpets and hard floors.
Cons:
- Corded operation can be less convenient than cordless models.
- Might feel a bit heavy compared to some lighter stick vacuums.
- Accessories might be basic compared to more expensive models.
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”
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 st”
4. Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum: HEPA Filter, LED Headlights, and Pet Tools.
The Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet is a premium choice for serious home cleaning, especially in households with pets. This upright vacuum combines powerful suction with advanced features like LED headlights and a specialized pet tool, ensuring no speck of dirt or strand of hair is missed. Its 2-in-1 design offers unparalleled versatility for both floor and detailed cleaning.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 2-IN-1 Powered Lift-Away Technology: Detach the pod for portable cleaning while the brushroll continues to spin, deep-cleaning under furniture.
- ✓ Advanced Swivel Steering: Provides superior control for effortless maneuvering around obstacles and tight spaces.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it excellent for air quality.
- ✓ LED Headlights: Illuminates hidden debris on your floors, ensuring a thorough clean in dimly lit areas.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re looking for a high-performance vacuum cleaner that can handle anything your home throws at it, especially pet hair, this model is an excellent investment. The Powered Lift-Away feature is a game-changer for deep cleaning, and the LED headlights are surprisingly useful for spotting unseen dirt. It truly elevates the home cleaning experience.
Best For
This is the best vacuum cleaner for home owners with pets, large homes with various floor types, and those who desire premium features for thorough and efficient cleaning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional power for tackling stubborn pet hair and deeply embedded dirt.
- Powered Lift-Away mode provides continuous brushroll action even when detached.
- LED headlights reveal hidden debris for a more thorough clean.
- Advanced allergen filtration ensures cleaner air.
Cons:
- Can be heavier than other Shark models due to its robust design.
- Higher price point compared to basic upright vacuums.
- Corded operation may feel less convenient than cordless options.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I just purchased this vacuum and am really impressed with it after the first use. It was really easy to put together. The instructions included are detailed with pictures. It’s easy to transition to handheld. There’s no extra hose you have to lug around or store. It’s lightweight so moving it up and”
Customer Review: “I am where vacuums go to die. With 4 dogs and 5 cats, living on a mountain farm, I kill vacuums on a regular basis. I’ve managed to take out everything from an old Kirby to a new Dyson & everything in between. Even the ones designed for pet hair didn’t last long. Then I got a shark navigator. It wa”
5. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum for Carpet, Hard Floor, and Pets.
The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum proves that powerful cleaning doesn’t have to mean a heavy machine or a hefty price tag. This vacuum offers strong suction and multi-surface capability, making it a fantastic choice for everyday home cleaning. Its lightweight design and extra-large dust cup make for convenient and efficient cleaning sessions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight Yet Powerful: Weighing just 10 pounds, it delivers robust suction power without being cumbersome to carry.
- ✓ Strong Suction Across Surfaces: A 960-watt motor ensures consistent, powerful suction on carpets, hardwood floors, and tile.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup: With a 2.6-liter capacity, you can clean longer without frequent interruptions to empty the bin.
- ✓ Versatile Cleaning: Designed for effectiveness on various floor types and adept at handling pet hair.
Why We Recommend It
For sheer convenience and robust performance at an accessible price, the Eureka PowerSpeed is hard to beat. It’s incredibly easy to maneuver and carry, which is a huge plus for multi-story homes. The powerful motor ensures that your floors get a thorough clean, making it a great all-around option for most households seeking a reliable vacuum cleaner for home.
Best For
This lightweight vacuum is best for individuals seeking an easy-to-use, powerful, and affordable vacuum for daily cleaning across carpets, hard floors, and pet hair removal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry between rooms or floors.
- Impressive suction power for its size and price point.
- Large dust cup minimizes emptying frequency.
- Effective on both carpets and hard floors.
Cons:
- Can be a bit noisy during operation.
- Filtration system is basic; not explicitly HEPA certified.
- Lacks advanced features like LED headlights or specialized pet tools of higher-end models.
Customer Reviews
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”
Customer Review: “I have a robot vacuum, I thought was doing a good job, until I bought this and used it. This vacuum works great!!! It came in quickly and was very easy to put together. It is a little noisy but most good vacuums are, no issues with that. Was easy to dump depris from cannister. Cord was plenty long e”
6. LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum: Tangle-Resistant, 50-Minute Runtime, Lightweight for All Floors and Pets.
The LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum represents the pinnacle of modern home cleaning convenience. Offering impressive runtime, a tangle-resistant design, and versatile cleaning capabilities, this lightweight stick vacuum is perfect for quick clean-ups and thorough sessions alike. Its freedom from cords transforms the way you approach daily tidying, making it one of the best vacuum cleaner for home if you value flexibility.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Tangle-Resistant Design: Engineered to minimize hair tangles, making it ideal for homes with pets or long-haired individuals.
- ✓ 50-Minute Runtime: Offers ample battery life for thorough cleaning sessions on a single charge.
- ✓ Lightweight & Cordless: Provides ultimate maneuverability and freedom to clean without being tethered to an outlet.
- ✓ Versatile Cleaning: Comes with various attachments for cleaning different floor types, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
- ✓ Easy-Empty Dust Bin: A simple one-click mechanism makes emptying the dust bin hygienic and hassle-free.
Why We Recommend It
We absolutely love the LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum for its sheer convenience and thoughtful design. The tangle-resistant feature is a massive time-saver, and the respectable runtime means you won’t be constantly searching for a charger. Its lightweight nature makes it a joy to use, effortlessly transforming your cleaning routine into a quicker, more enjoyable task. This is truly a top pick for modern home cleaning.
Best For
This cordless vacuum is best for busy households, pet owners, small to medium-sized homes, and anyone who values quick, convenient, and flexible cleaning without the hassle of a cord.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cordless design offers unparalleled freedom and ease of use.
- Excellent 50-minute battery life for a cordless model.
- Tangle-resistant brushroll is a huge benefit for pet owners.
- Lightweight and highly versatile with included attachments.
Cons:
- Suction power might be slightly less than top-tier corded uprights on maximum settings.
- Charging time can be several hours.
- Dust bin capacity is smaller compared to traditional upright vacuums.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I love this vacuum. It has made my life so much easier. The suction is great and easy to clean and easy to wash and air dry filters. There is one metal filter and that is easy to get out and put back. It is wobbly if you have to stand it up in the middle of vacuuming but I can live with that. It”
Customer Review: “I will preface this review by saying that I live in a multi animal and multi person household, we have cats, rabbits, and a dog. We have tried just about every vacuum out there from Shark, Dirt Devil, Shop Vac, Dyson, etc.The good: This little vacuum is extremely lightweight and easy to use. The but”
7. Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum: Quick Release Wand, Ideal for Apartments and Dorms.
For those living in smaller spaces like apartments or dorms, the Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum is a standout. This lightweight vacuum packs powerful cleaning capabilities into a compact design, making it easy to store and maneuver. With features like the Quick Release Wand, it offers versatility for both floor and above-floor cleaning, proving that great things come in small packages when it comes to the best vacuum cleaner for home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight (10 lbs): Exceptionally easy to carry and maneuver, perfect for smaller living spaces.
- ✓ Full Size Power, Compact Design: Delivers powerful suction typical of larger vacuums, despite its small footprint.
- ✓ Quick Release Wand: Provides instant access to extend your cleaning reach for ceilings, upholstery, and tight corners.
- ✓ Multi-Surface Cleaning: Effectively cleans both carpets and hardwood floors with ease.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: Your purchase helps homeless pets, adding a charitable aspect to your cleaning.
Why We Recommend It
The Bissell CleanView Compact is an ideal solution for anyone needing a powerful yet space-saving vacuum cleaner. Its portability and strong suction make it incredibly effective for daily tidying, while the quick-release wand ensures you can reach every nook and cranny. Plus, knowing your purchase contributes to a good cause makes it even more appealing for your home cleaning needs.
Best For
This compact upright vacuum is best for apartment dwellers, students in dorms, or anyone with limited storage space who still needs strong, efficient suction for everyday messes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight and compact, making storage and handling easy.
- Surprisingly strong suction for its small size.
- Quick Release Wand adds versatility for above-floor cleaning.
- Affordable and practical for smaller homes.
Cons:
- Smaller dust cup requires more frequent emptying.
- Basic filtration system; not equipped with a HEPA filter.
- Corded design may be less convenient for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very light weight and on the smaller size makes storing easyGreat cleaning powerThis little machine has a lot of suctionEasy to use and empty the dirt canisterGood quality and looks”
Customer Review: “My old Bissell is 3 times the size of this one. I wasn’t happy when I first saw it. But I’ve used it awhile and it’s great. Lot’s of suction, easy to use, lite weight, not excessively loud, attachments work. I have a small apt with limited closets so this size fits great inside my closets. Well wor”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Vacuum Cleaner For Home
Choosing the best vacuum cleaner for home use is an important decision that impacts the cleanliness and health of your living space. With so many options, from powerful uprights to agile cordless stick vacuums, it’s essential to consider what truly meets your household’s unique demands. Let’s explore the key factors that guide our expert recommendations.
Essential Factors We Consider
When we evaluate vacuum cleaners, we focus on several critical aspects to ensure they deliver top-notch performance for various home settings:
- Floor Types: Do you have mostly hardwood floors, plush carpets, or a mix of both? Some vacuums excel on one surface but struggle on others. Look for multi-surface cleaning capabilities if your home has varied flooring.
- Pet Hair: If you have furry companions, pet hair is a major concern. Vacuums with specialized brushrolls, anti-tangle technology, and powerful suction are paramount.
- Allergies & Air Quality: For allergy sufferers, a vacuum with a HEPA filter and a sealed system (like “Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology”) is non-negotiable to trap microscopic allergens and prevent them from recirculating into the air.
- Vacuum Type:
- Upright Vacuums: Known for their powerful suction, especially on carpets, and larger dust capacities. Ideal for deep cleaning.
- Canister Vacuums: Offer maneuverability and are great for hardwood floors, stairs, and drapes, often with a wider range of attachments.
- Stick Vacuums: Lightweight and often cordless, perfect for quick clean-ups and smaller homes. Increasingly powerful options are available.
- Robotic Vacuums: Provide automated cleaning, best for maintaining cleanliness between deeper cleans.
- Weight & Maneuverability: A lightweight vacuum with swivel steering makes cleaning easier, especially in multi-story homes or spaces with lots of furniture.
- Dust Bin Capacity & Maintenance: Larger dust bins mean less frequent emptying. Easy-empty designs and washable filters contribute to convenience and lower long-term costs.
- Corded vs. Cordless: Corded vacuums offer unlimited runtime and often stronger, consistent suction. Cordless vacuums provide freedom of movement but are limited by battery life and can have variable suction.
Budget Planning
Your budget is a significant factor, but remember that investing a little more upfront can often lead to greater durability and better performance in the long run. We’ve included options that range from budget-friendly powerhouses to premium models packed with advanced features. Consider how often you’ll use the vacuum and the size of your home when deciding how much to spend. Sometimes, a slightly higher initial cost saves you from needing frequent replacements or specialized cleaning services.
Final Thoughts
The “best” vacuum cleaner for home is truly subjective and depends on your individual needs. By considering your floor types, whether you have pets, your budget, and how often you’ll be cleaning, you can narrow down the choices. Our detailed reviews aim to give you a clear picture of each product’s strengths and weaknesses, helping you align them with your priorities. Don’t underestimate the impact a truly effective vacuum can have on your daily life!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the main difference between an upright and a cordless stick vacuum?
A: Upright vacuums are typically more powerful, especially for deep cleaning carpets, and have larger dust capacities. They are corded, meaning unlimited runtime. Cordless stick vacuums offer incredible maneuverability and convenience without a cord, perfect for quick clean-ups and everyday use on all floor types, but they have limited battery life and often smaller dust bins.
Q: Is a HEPA filter really necessary for a vacuum cleaner?
A: While not always “necessary” for everyone, a HEPA filter is highly recommended, especially for individuals with allergies, asthma, or homes with pets. HEPA filters can trap 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores, significantly improving indoor air quality. If a vacuum also has a “sealed system,” it ensures these allergens don’t escape back into the air.
Q: How often should I empty my vacuum’s dust bin?
A: It’s generally best to empty your vacuum’s dust bin after every use, or when it reaches the “max fill” line. An overfilled dust bin can reduce suction power and efficiency. For homes with pets or a lot of dust, more frequent emptying might be necessary to maintain optimal performance.
Q: Can I use the same vacuum cleaner on both carpets and hardwood floors?
A: Many modern vacuum cleaners are designed for multi-surface cleaning. Look for models with features like brushroll shutoff, adjustable suction settings, or different cleaning modes. A brushroll can be very effective on carpets but can scratch delicate hardwood floors or scatter debris, so having the option to turn it off is crucial for mixed flooring.
Q: What does “Lift-Away” functionality mean for a vacuum?
A: “Lift-Away” functionality, particularly common in Shark vacuums, allows you to detach the main canister from the vacuum’s base. This transforms the upright vacuum into a portable canister, making it much easier to clean stairs, upholstery, ceilings, and other above-floor areas without moving the entire heavy unit. It provides excellent versatility for comprehensive home cleaning.
Choosing the best vacuum cleaner for home doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding your specific cleaning needs and leveraging the insights from our reviews and buying guide, you’re well-equipped to find a vacuum that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Each product on our list offers unique strengths, from tackling stubborn pet hair to providing exceptional allergen filtration, ensuring your home stays spotless and healthy. So, go ahead and pick your perfect cleaning partner today!
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.
