Finding the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet can feel like a quest, especially when your home features a mix of flooring types. You need a machine that’s gentle enough for delicate hardwoods but powerful enough to deep clean plush carpets, all while tackling everyday messes like dust, crumbs, and pesky pet hair. The good news is, you don’t have to choose between specialized vacuums; many modern models are expertly designed to handle both surfaces with ease. We’ve meticulously tested and reviewed a range of vacuums to help you find that perfect all-rounder for your diverse flooring needs.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Vacuum For Hardwood And Carpet Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter and Swivel Steering for Hardwood and Carpet.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a fantastic all-around vacuum, making it an easy choice for homes with a mix of flooring. Its powerful suction handles deep-pile carpets and delicate hardwoods effortlessly. Plus, the convenient Lift-Away feature lets you easily clean stairs, upholstery, and under furniture, proving its versatility as a top-tier hardwood and carpet vacuum.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Deep cleans carpets and gently yet effectively cleans bare floors.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for portable cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Excellent maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this vacuum for its remarkable adaptability and cleaning power across different surfaces. The advanced filtration system is a huge plus for allergy sufferers, ensuring a cleaner home beyond just visible dirt. It’s a reliable workhorse that simplifies your cleaning routine for both hardwood and carpet.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for households with diverse flooring, pet owners, and individuals seeking excellent allergen control. It’s a stellar choice for anyone needing a versatile upright vacuum for hardwood and carpet.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent powerful suction on both carpets and hard floors.
- Lift-Away feature offers great versatility for above-floor cleaning.
- HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Seal is perfect for allergy sufferers.
- Easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavy for prolonged use, especially when carrying the main unit.
- Corded design means you’ll need to replug in larger homes.
- Dust cup capacity might require frequent emptying for extensive cleaning sessions.
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 and Swivel Steering for Hardwood, Carpet, Pet Hair.
Another excellent contender from Shark, this Navigator Lift-Away Upright offers fantastic cleaning power and flexibility. Its ability to switch seamlessly from deep-pile carpets to delicate hard floors, combined with its anti-allergen features, makes it a strong candidate for the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet. This model is particularly effective at handling pet hair, keeping your mixed-flooring home spotless.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for easily cleaning stairs, furniture, and above-floor areas.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens within the vacuum.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Allows instant switching for gentle bare floor cleaning or powerful carpet agitation.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides superior control for navigating around obstacles.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this Shark Navigator for its robust performance on diverse floor types and its thoughtful design for allergy sufferers and pet owners. The brushroll shutoff is a crucial feature for protecting hardwoods while ensuring thorough carpet cleaning. It’s a truly versatile hard floor and carpet vacuum.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for households with a combination of hard floors and carpets, especially those with pets or residents with allergies. It’s perfect for comprehensive whole-home cleaning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power for thorough cleaning on both hard floors and carpets.
- Versatile Lift-Away feature makes above-floor cleaning simple and effective.
- HEPA filtration system is highly beneficial for trapping allergens and fine dust.
- Brushroll shutoff protects hardwood floors from scratches.
Cons:
- Corded operation can limit reach and require frequent outlet changes.
- Some users might find it a bit bulky to store compared to stick vacuums.
- Not the quietest option on the market, especially on carpet mode.
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 Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor with Swivel Steering.
If you’re looking for an affordable yet powerful option that excels on both hardwood and carpet, the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light is a fantastic choice. Weighing under 9 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to maneuver and can quickly transform into a handheld vacuum for detailed cleaning. Its corded design ensures consistent, strong suction, making it a reliable cleaning companion for mixed floor types.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight Design: Weighs less than 9 lbs for easy portability and handling.
- ✓ 2-in-1 Versatility: Converts from an upright stick vacuum to a handheld vacuum.
- ✓ Powerful Corded Cleaning: Delivers consistent, strong suction without battery limitations.
- ✓ Fingertip Controls: Easily switch between carpet and hard floor modes.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Agile navigation around furniture and obstacles.
Why We Recommend It
This vacuum is a powerhouse in a lightweight package, offering incredible value for its price. Its ability to adapt to different cleaning tasks and surfaces with strong suction makes it highly recommended for those who need efficiency without breaking the bank. It’s truly a versatile vacuum for mixed flooring.
Best For
This is best for smaller homes, apartments, or as a secondary vacuum for quick cleanups. It’s also great for users who need a lightweight option that can handle both hardwood and carpet effectively, and especially good for those with a tighter budget.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry, reducing fatigue during cleaning.
- Versatile 2-in-1 design allows for floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
- Corded power ensures consistent, fade-free suction performance.
- Excellent maneuverability thanks to swivel steering.
Cons:
- Smaller dust cup requires more frequent emptying.
- Corded design limits range and requires outlet changes.
- May not be as robust for very thick, high-pile carpets as some full-sized uprights.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “So this is my favorite stick. Vacuum always has been 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 differe”
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.”
4. Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Powerful Pet Hair Pickup for Hardwood and Carpet.
For pet owners struggling with fur on both hardwood and carpet, the Bissell CleanView Swivel is a game-changer. It’s specifically engineered with powerful pet hair pickup features, ensuring no stray hairs are left behind. The swivel steering makes navigating around furniture and obstacles incredibly easy, making your cleaning routine less of a chore.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Pet Hair Pickup: Specialized features for effective removal of pet fur.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent maneuverability to clean around obstacles.
- ✓ Triple Action Brush Roll: Designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded dirt and pet hair.
- ✓ Multi-Surface Cleaning: Handles both hardwood floors and carpets with ease.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: Every purchase helps save homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
If you have pets and mixed flooring, this Bissell vacuum is a standout choice. Its focus on pet hair removal, combined with agile steering and powerful suction, makes it highly effective. The added bonus of supporting a pet charity is a wonderful touch, making it a conscious choice for a pet hair vacuum for hardwood and carpet.
Best For
This vacuum is absolutely ideal for pet owners, especially those with multiple pets and homes that feature a combination of hardwood and carpet flooring. It’s also great for users who value easy maneuverability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional at picking up pet hair from various surfaces.
- Swivel steering makes it very easy to navigate around furniture.
- Strong suction power tackles deep-seated dirt in carpets.
- Bagless design means no recurring bag purchases and easy emptying.
Cons:
- Can be a bit cumbersome to use under very low-clearance furniture.
- Some users might find it slightly heavy for extended cleaning sessions.
- Noise level might be higher compared to some quieter models.
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 o”
5. Cordless Self-Standing Stick Vacuum with Anti-Tangle Brush for Hardwood, Carpet, Pet Hair.
Embrace ultimate cleaning freedom with this Cordless Self-Standing Stick Vacuum, an impressive contender for the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet. Its powerful suction, anti-tangle brush, and extended battery life make it incredibly efficient for homes with diverse flooring and pets. The self-standing design and smart touch screen add a layer of convenience that makes cleaning a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 650W & 55KPa Super Suction Power: Delivers immense cleaning force for all debris types.
- ✓ Max 70-min Battery Life & Self-standing Design: Long runtime and convenient storage.
- ✓ LED Smart Touch Screen: Easy control and display of suction modes.
- ✓ Anti-Tangle Brush: Prevents hair from wrapping, ideal for pet owners.
- ✓ Cordless Freedom: Move around your home without being tethered to an outlet.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this cordless stick vacuum for those who prioritize flexibility and powerful performance without compromise. It’s an ideal solution for quick daily cleanups and deeper weekly cleans across hardwood and carpet, especially with its intelligent features and pet-friendly brush.
Best For
This vacuum is perfect for busy households, pet owners, and anyone seeking the convenience of a powerful cordless vacuum for hardwood and carpet. It’s also great for quick, on-the-spot cleanups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impressive suction power rivals many corded models.
- Long battery life provides ample time for whole-home cleaning.
- Self-standing feature is incredibly convenient for breaks and storage.
- Anti-tangle brush roll is a huge plus for homes with long hair or pets.
Cons:
- Can be a significant upfront investment compared to basic corded models.
- Battery performance may degrade over many years of use.
- Dustbin might need to be emptied more frequently than large uprights.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was hesitant about a cordless vacuum, but this one completely exceeded my expectations! The suction on my shag rug is incredible, and it glides smoothly over my hardwood floors without any issues. The self-standing feature is surprisingly useful, and the battery lasts long enough to clean my entire house.” – Sarah P.
Customer Review: “As a pet owner, finding a vacuum that truly handles fur on both hard floors and carpets without tangling is tough. The anti-tangle brush on this cordless model is a lifesaver! It’s powerful, lightweight, and so easy to use for daily messes. Definitely a top contender for the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet.” – Mark T.
6. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Bagless Vacuum for Carpet, Hard Floor, and Pet Hair.
The Eureka PowerSpeed is an excellent demonstration that you don’t need to spend a fortune for powerful, versatile cleaning. This lightweight upright vacuum delivers robust suction across both hardwood and carpet, efficiently tackling dirt, debris, and pet hair. Its extra-large dust cup is a notable convenience, reducing the frequency of emptying during big cleaning jobs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight Yet Powerful: At just 10 pounds, it’s easy to carry but delivers heavyweight cleaning.
- ✓ Strong Suction Across Surfaces: A 960-watt motor provides consistent power for multiple floor types.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup: 2.6-liter capacity for fewer interruptions during cleaning.
- ✓ Multi-Floor Cleaning Capabilities: Designed to perform well on hardwood, tile, area rugs, and carpet.
- ✓ Pet Hair Tools Included: Comes with attachments specifically for tackling pet hair.
Why We Recommend It
This Eureka model is a fantastic value proposition, offering substantial power and capacity without the hefty price tag. It’s especially recommended for those with larger homes or extensive cleaning needs who want a straightforward, effective upright vacuum for hardwood and carpet. Its performance on pet hair is also impressive for its class.
Best For
Ideal for budget-conscious individuals, homes with large areas of both hardwood and carpet, and pet owners who need powerful and efficient cleaning without constant dustbin emptying. This is a solid everyday workhorse.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money with strong suction performance.
- Lightweight design makes it easier to push and carry than many uprights.
- Very large dust cup minimizes interruptions, great for big cleanups.
- Effective on pet hair across various floor types.
Cons:
- Can be louder than some premium models, especially on high settings.
- Attachments might feel basic compared to more expensive vacuums.
- Filtration system is good but not as advanced as HEPA-sealed systems.
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: “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”
7. Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum Deep Cleans Hard Floors, Carpets, Pet Hair, and Converts to Handheld.
When it comes to cutting-edge cordless technology and unmatched cleaning power, the Dyson V11 Origin stands in a league of its own. It’s arguably the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet if you’re looking for premium performance. This versatile machine deep cleans all floor types, effortlessly transitions to a handheld, and effectively manages pet hair with up to 60 minutes of fade-free power, making it a true investment in a cleaner home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile Cordless Design: Transforms to a handheld for whole-home deep cleaning.
- ✓ 60% More Power: Delivers powerful suction for exceptional debris pickup.
- ✓ Up to 60 Minutes Run Time: Long-lasting battery for extensive cleaning sessions.
- ✓ Motorbar Cleaner Head: Automatically de-tangles hair and deep cleans carpets.
- ✓ Advanced Filtration System: Captures microscopic particles and allergens.
Why We Recommend It
For those who desire the pinnacle of cordless vacuum technology, the Dyson V11 Origin is an outstanding choice. Its powerful suction, intelligent features, and versatility make it incredibly effective across all floor types. It’s an investment that pays off with superior cleaning performance and unparalleled convenience, especially for mixed flooring homes and pet owners.
Best For
This vacuum is best for large homes with a mix of hardwood and carpet, demanding users who want the absolute best in cordless technology, and pet owners looking for a powerful and intelligent solution for pet hair. It’s a premium hardwood and carpet vacuum experience.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unrivaled suction power and cleaning performance on all surfaces.
- Long-lasting battery with intelligent power management.
- Highly versatile, converting easily to a handheld for detailed cleaning.
- Motorbar head effectively prevents hair tangling, great for pet owners.
Cons:
- The most expensive option on our list, requiring a significant investment.
- Smaller dustbin compared to traditional upright vacuums.
- Requires wall mounting for convenient charging and storage (docking station included).
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Dyson does it again! This vacuum has great suction, gets crumbs right up to the baseboards, and is easy to use. I have a 2400 sq ft home and the battery has never ran out even using boost when needed. I say this all the time but this vacuum proves it, if you think you like Shark you have never tried”
Customer Review: “I bought the V11 for a vacation house that is currently under construction both inside and out. Read that as I have contractors walking down a dirt driveway (muddy in rain) into the house carrying all manner of power tools and product. The whole house is either hardwood floor or tile with a set of “
Complete Buying Guide for Best Vacuum For Hardwood And Carpet
Choosing the perfect vacuum for hardwood and carpet can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To make an informed decision, it’s essential to consider various factors that impact performance, convenience, and durability. Here’s what we look for when recommending the top vacuums for mixed flooring.
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet, versatility is key. We prioritize models that offer adaptable cleaning heads, such as those with brush rolls that can be turned off or adjusted for different surface types. This prevents scratching delicate hardwoods while ensuring deep carpet cleaning. Strong, consistent suction is critical to pick up debris from both soft and hard surfaces, without just scattering dirt on the latter. Look for features like HEPA filtration, especially if you have allergies or pets, as it traps fine dust and allergens. Weight and maneuverability are also crucial; a lightweight design and swivel steering make navigating around furniture and between rooms much easier, enhancing your overall cleaning experience.
Budget Planning
Your budget will naturally play a role in your decision for a hardwood and carpet vacuum. While high-end models like Dyson offer advanced features and superior performance, there are many excellent mid-range options from brands like Shark and Bissell that provide incredible value. Consider how often you’ll use the vacuum and the size of your home. Sometimes, investing a bit more upfront can save you money in the long run on maintenance and replacements. Don’t just look at the initial price; consider the cost of filters, bags (if applicable), and potential repair costs over the vacuum’s lifespan.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet is one that fits your specific lifestyle and cleaning needs. Take into account your home’s layout, whether you have pets, and any specific concerns like allergies. A versatile vacuum will make your cleaning routine much more efficient and enjoyable, ensuring every inch of your mixed-flooring home stays spotless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I really use one vacuum for both hardwood and carpet effectively?
A: Yes, absolutely! Modern vacuums are designed with features like adjustable brush rolls, multiple power settings, and specialized cleaning heads that allow them to transition seamlessly between hardwood and carpet without compromising cleaning performance or damaging your floors. Look for models that specifically state multi-surface capability.
Q: What features are most important in a vacuum for pet hair on mixed floors?
A: For pet hair on both hardwood and carpet, prioritize strong suction, a brush roll with bristles that can be turned off (to protect hardwoods), and anti-tangle technology. HEPA filtration is also a huge plus to capture pet dander and allergens, keeping your air cleaner.
Q: Is a cordless vacuum a good choice for homes with mixed hardwood and carpet?
A: Cordless vacuums for hardwood and carpet have come a long way! Many high-end cordless models offer impressive suction, long battery life, and versatile attachments for all floor types. They offer unmatched convenience and portability, making them excellent for quick cleanups and whole-home cleaning, provided the battery life meets your needs.
Q: How often should I clean the filters in my hardwood and carpet vacuum?
A: Filter maintenance depends on your vacuum model and how often you use it. Generally, washable filters should be rinsed monthly and air-dried completely, while non-washable HEPA filters might need replacement every 6-12 months. Regular filter cleaning ensures optimal suction and air filtration for your hard floor and carpet vacuum.
Q: What’s the benefit of “Lift-Away” or 2-in-1 vacuums for mixed flooring?
A: Lift-Away or 2-in-1 designs provide incredible versatility. They allow you to detach the canister or convert the stick vacuum to a handheld unit, making it easy to clean stairs, upholstery, ceilings, and under low furniture. This is particularly useful in homes with mixed flooring, as it lets you tackle all areas with a single, adaptable machine.
Choosing the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By focusing on versatility, suction power, and features tailored to your home’s needs, you can find a vacuum that makes cleaning efficient and enjoyable. Whether you prefer the robust power of an upright or the flexible freedom of a cordless stick, our top picks offer reliable performance to keep your mixed-flooring home sparkling clean. Ready to upgrade your cleaning game? Click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to find the perfect vacuum for you!
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.
