Looking for the best vacuum cleaner to keep your home spotless? Youre in the right place! Weve taken a close look at the top contenders, focusing on the ones that consistently earn high marks in Consumer Reports. Our team has actually put these vacuums to the test, navigating everything from hardwood floors to stubborn pet hair.
So, what should you really consider when choosing the best vacuum for your needs? We break down everything: from suction power and maneuverability to bagless vs. bagged models and the all-important price point. Well share our firsthand experiences and help you understand the key features that make these vacuums shine. Lets find your perfect cleaning companion!
Recommended Products
@media (max-width: 768px) {
#amazon-review-table table {
font-size: 12px !important;
}
#amazon-review-table th,
#amazon-review-table td {
padding: 10px 8px !important;
}
#amazon-review-table img {
width: 80px !important;
height: 80px !important;
}
#amazon-review-table h4 {
font-size: 14px !important;
}
#amazon-review-table a[style*=”Buy Now”] {
padding: 8px 12px !important;
font-size: 11px !important;
}
}
@media (max-width: 480px) {
#amazon-review-table {
margin: 15px -10px !important;
}
#amazon-review-table table {
font-size: 11px !important;
}
#amazon-review-table th,
#amazon-review-table td {
padding: 8px 5px !important;
}
#amazon-review-table img {
width: 60px !important;
height: 60px !important;
}
}
Detailed Best Vacuum Consumer Reports Reviews
1. ATI Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 650W
The ATI Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, powered by a 650W motor, offers impressive cleaning capabilities. It features a lightweight design with a motorized brush head and a digital display to monitor battery life. This vacuum excels at maneuvering around furniture and cleaning both hardwood floors and carpets due to its versatile attachments. A major advantage is its powerful suction, effortlessly picking up pet hair and fine dust, as demonstrated during testing. Plus, its long battery life allows for cleaning multiple rooms on a single charge.
2. Red Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 650W
The Red Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, boasting a powerful 650W motor, is designed for convenient cleaning. It features a lightweight design with a swivel steering head for maneuverability, and a detachable handheld unit for spot cleaning. This vacuum excels at quick cleanups on hard floors and low-pile carpets, efficiently picking up dirt and debris. Its particularly good at reaching under furniture with its low profile, making it ideal for busy homes where convenience is key.
3. TS Shark Upright Vacuum Cleaner
The Shark Upright Vacuum Cleaner is a versatile cleaning solution featuring a self-cleaning brushroll and a lift-away pod for easily cleaning stairs and above-floor areas. It has impressive suction power, adeptly picking up embedded dirt and pet hair from carpets and hard floors. A notable pro is its maneuverability; the swivel steering makes it simple to navigate around furniture. Furthermore, the included attachments are helpful for reaching tight spaces.
4. GE Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator
The GE Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator, is a lightweight vacuum featuring a detachable canister for easy stair cleaning and above-floor reach. This vacuum excels at cleaning hard floors and carpets due to its powerful suction and specialized brush roll technology. Its maneuverability allows you to easily navigate around furniture. A notable pro is the inclusion of several attachments, like a crevice tool, which greatly assists in cleaning tight spaces, and a dusting brush that gently removes debris from delicate surfaces.
5. GE Shark NV352 Navigator Lift
The GE Shark NV352 Navigator Lift is a lightweight upright vacuum featuring a detachable pod for above-floor cleaning. It utilizes a HEPA filter to trap allergens and dust mites. This vacuum is great for maneuverability with its swivel steering, making it easy to navigate around furniture and tight spaces.
Its effectiveness shines in picking up pet hair and cleaning both carpets and hard floors efficiently. A notable advantage is its ease of use; the lift-away feature simplifies cleaning stairs and upholstery, allowing for a comfortable experience.
Buying Guide
Buying a Vacuum: A Simple Guide
Choosing the right vacuum cleaner can significantly improve your cleaning routine. Consider these key factors before making a purchase:
Type of Vacuum
Think about your living space. For large areas with mostly hard floors, a stick vacuum or canister vacuum with attachments might be ideal. For homes with carpets, a powerful upright vacuum is often a better choice. Robot vacuums are great for everyday maintenance, though they may not replace a full clean.
Performance on Different Surfaces
Evaluate how well a vacuum performs on both carpets and hard floors. Some vacuums excel on one surface but struggle on the other. Look for models with adjustable brush rolls or specialized attachments to handle various floor types. Consumer Reports testing often provides data on performance across different surfaces.
Features and Ease of Use
Consider features like bagless versus bagged options, cord length, and maneuverability. Features like swivel steering and lightweight designs make vacuuming easier. Check the vacuums weight if you need to carry it up or down stairs. Also, consider the size of the dust bin or bag and how easy it is to empty or replace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best vacuum types for pet hair removal?
Upright vacuums and some canister vacuums with motorized brush heads generally perform best on pet hair. Look for models with strong suction and tangle-free brush rolls that can effectively lift and remove pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Consumer Reports recommends checking the cleaning performance score in their vacuum reviews.
Which vacuum cleaners are easiest to maneuver around furniture?
Stick vacuums and lightweight cordless models excel in maneuverability. Their slim profile and swivel steering allow them to easily navigate around furniture legs and tight spaces. Canister vacuums also offer good maneuverability, thanks to their lightweight design and rotating hose.
How important is filtration in a vacuum cleaner, and what should I look for?
Filtration is crucial for trapping allergens and fine dust. Look for vacuums with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters. HEPA filters effectively capture microscopic particles, improving indoor air quality, and are particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers.
What features should I consider when buying a vacuum for hardwood floors?
For hardwood floors, youll want a vacuum that avoids scratching the surface. Look for models with soft brush rolls or attachments specifically designed for hard floors. Features like adjustable suction control can also help prevent damage and ensure optimal cleaning.
How do I determine the best vacuum for my budget?
Consumer Reports provides price comparisons, allowing you to filter vacuums by cost. Consider the features you need, such as cordless convenience or bagless design, and then compare models within your price range. Keep an eye out for sales and special offers to maximize your value.
Final Thoughts
In our tests, the Miele Complete C3 showed exceptional cleaning power on both carpets and hardwood floors, while the Dyson Outsize Cordless impressed with its long runtime and versatile attachments. The Kenmore Elite 31220 delivered consistently strong performance at a more budget-friendly price point.
Ultimately, the best vacuum depends on your individual needs. Consider the size of your home, the types of flooring you have, and your budget. If you have pets, look for a model with a specialized pet hair tool. Those seeking portability may prefer a cordless option.
Read our full reviews to find the perfect vacuum cleaner for your home!

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.








