
Keep Your Home Squeaky Clean: A Guide to the Best Vacuum Cleaners
Are you tired of lackluster vacuums that leave behind dirt and debris? Do you spend way too much time trying to clean up pet hair and dust bunnies? Then it’s time to upgrade your old clunker and invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner.
There are tons of new vacuum technologies that make home cleaning faster, easier and more effective. With so many options out there, it can get overwhelming trying to decide which is right for you. Don’t worry, we did the research for you!
In this blog, we cover the best 4 vacuums on the market, explain what to look for when choosing a new vacuum, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about vacuum cleaners. Read on to transform your floors and breathe new life into your home cleaning routine!
The Best 4 Household Vacuum Cleaners
After testing countless models and analyzing consumer reviews, we narrowed it down to the top 4 vacuum cleaners for every type of home and cleaning need. From powerful uprights to convenient cordless sticks, these are the brands you can trust to really suck up dirt.
1. The Lindhaus HF-16 HEPA Cyclonic Upright Vacuum
The Lindhaus HF-16 is a top-of-the-line upright vacuum beloved by cleaning enthusiasts. This Italian-made powerhouse offers serious suction and superb filtration.
Key features:
- Cyclonic technology– Creates a fast vortex to remove embedded dirt and debris from airpath
- HEPA filtration– Traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, ideal for allergies
- Sealed system– Ensures no dust or allergens escape back into the air
- LED headlights– Brightly illuminate dark areas under furniture
Pros:
- Extreme suction power on carpets and hard floors
- Great for allergy sufferers and asthmatics
- Large capacity bag requires less frequent changing
- Long cord and hose provide wide cleaning radius
- Excellent ratings for reliability and durability
Cons:
- Expensive, but worth the investment
- Heavy, one of the heftier vacuums
The Lindhaus HF-16 is the ultimate vacuum for whole-house deep cleaning. The superior suction tackles embedded dirt on carpets with ease. Allergens don’t stand a chance with its sealed HEPA filtration. This vacuum truly sucks in all the best ways!
2. Dyson Ball Animal 2 Upright Vacuum
Dyson is synonymous with innovative and powerful vacuums. The Dyson Ball Animal 2 lives up to the brand’s reputation. Engineered for homes with pets, it deep cleans carpets and contains messes.
Key features:
- Self-adjusting cleaner head– Seals suction across floors
- Tangle-free turbine tool– Removes pet hair from upholstery
- Whole-machine HEPA filtration– Traps allergens inside
- Ball technology– Steers easily around furniture
Pros:
- Strong suction and great for high-pile carpets
- Versatile attachment tools included
- Large dust bin for pet hair and debris
- Washable lifetime filters to maintain suction
- 5-year parts and labor warranty
Cons:
- Expensive, but gets the job done
- Bin full indicator isn’t obvious
From fluffy rugs to tufted upholstery, the Dyson Ball Animal 2 makes quick work of pet messes. Its advanced cleaner head provides a constant seal for no suction loss. For pet owners, this vigorous vacuum sucks away pesky hair and offers welcome peace of mind.
3. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
For an affordable upright vacuum with nifty features, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away consistently impresses. It converts into a portable canister for cleaning stairs, upholstery and more.
Key features:
- Lift-away canister– Detaches to clean hard-to-reach areas
- Swivel steering– For excellent maneuverability
- Pet power brush– Designed to grab hold of pet hair
- HEPA filtration– Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens
Pros:
- Great value for the price
- Lift-away canister adds versatility
- Works well on bare floors and carpets
- Large capacity dust cup easy to empty
- 5-year limited warranty
Cons:
- Not as powerful suction as pricier models
- Can tip over if canister is too full
For outstanding affordability, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away delivers professional-grade cleaning. The lift-away canister lets you easily tackle stairs, upholstery and hard-to-access spots. Budget-friendly and versatile, this vacuum sucks away dirt while going easy on your wallet.
4. Dyson Cyclone V10 Cordless Stick Vacuum
Leave cords behind with the lightweight yet capable Dyson Cyclone V10 cordless stick vacuum. With up to 60 minutes of fade-free power, it makes quick work of daily debris.
Key features:
- V10 digital motor– Intelligent power control for optimal runtime
- Whole-machine filtration– Traps 99.97% of microscopic particles
- Torque drive cleaner head– Motorized brush bar deep cleans carpets
- Easy emptying dust bin– Hygienically ejects debris with one click
Pros:
- Excellent runtime and suction for a cordless
- Lightweight and easily maneuverable
- Versatile attachments for all cleaning tasks
- Bagless, easy to empty collecting bin
- Washable lifetime filter maintains airflow
Cons:
- Expensive, but unbeatable convenience
- Air-driven brush bar slower than traditional motors
The Dyson Cyclone V10 takes cordless stick vacuums to a new level. With fade-free suction power, it tackles embedded dirt with ease. The lightweight maneuverability gets into nooks and crannies. For quick cleanups or whole home vacuuming, it offers outstanding versatility and performance without cords holding you back.
How to Choose the Right Vacuum Cleaner
With so many vacuum types and features available, it can be tricky selecting the model best suited for your home. Here are the key factors to consider when shopping for a new vacuum.
Types of Vacuums
Upright vacuums – Ideal for carpeted floors; easy to maneuver and store
Canister vacuums – Powerful with flexible hose for bare floors and stairs; bulkier
Stick vacuums – Compact and lightweight; cordless options for portability
Handheld vacuums – Good for small spills and upholstery; limited runtime
Robot vacuums – Convenient automatic cleaning; need frequent emptying
Key Features
Suction power – Measured in air watts; more power tackles embedded dirt
Filtration – HEPA is best for trapping dust, pollen, and dander
Attachments – Tools like crevice nozzles improve versatility
Cordless or corded – Cordless convenient but limited runtime; corded unlimited use
Bag or bagless – Bagged contain debris better; bagless easy to inspect/empty
Cleaning Needs
Carpets – Uprights excel here; look for motorized brush bars
Hard floors – Canisters and sticks clean bare floors well
Pet hair – Models with specialized pet tools trap hair
Allergies – HEPA filtration essential to remove allergens
Home Size and Layout
Small space – Compact stick or hand vacs store easily
Multi-level home – Canisters or detachable uprights clean stairs
Large house – Uprights cover more ground quickly
Ease of Use
Push button controls – Conveniently placed and easy to use
Swivel steering – Makes maneuvering and handling effortless
Lightweight – Important for vacuums you’ll need to carry
Cord length – Long cords provide a larger cleaning radius
Budget
Vacuums range widely in price from $50 to $500. Consider how often you vacuum and your willingness to invest in features, longevity and performance. Quality comes at a price.
Brand Reputation
Stick with established vacuum brands known for good suction and reliability. Common names include Dyson, Shark, Hoover, Bissell, Oreck, Electrolux and more.
Test Drives
If possible, try out vacuums at the store. Testing on different floor surfaces gives a feel for maneuverability and suction power.
Compare Reviews
Check Consumer Reports or Amazon reviews to see real customer experiences. This helps identify potential problems or shortcomings for particular models.
Additional Features
HEPA filters – Extra filtration for cleaner exhaust air
LED headlights – Help spot debris in dark areas
Washable filters – Can clean instead of replace dirty filters
Extra tools/attachments – Provide flexibility for more cleaning tasks
Retractable cord – For quick and easy cord management
Warranty
Look for at least a 1-year limited warranty. Models with 3-5 years indicate better expected longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vacuum Cleaners
For expert vacuum tips and tricks, check out these common FAQs.
How often should I vacuum my home?
- Carpets: 2-3 times per weekis ideal, especially in high traffic areas
- Hard floors: At least once per week
- Upholstery: Once every 2 weeks
- Mattresses: Every 3-6 months
Vacuuming frequency depends on factors like pets, kids, dust, allergies and how quickly floors look dirty again. Stick to a routine to prevent dust and debris buildup.
What is the difference between bagless and bagged vacuums?
Bagged vacuums – Debris collected into disposable bags, replaced when full
Bagless vacuums – Dirt collected into removable containers, manually emptied
Bagged offer better containment of dust and allergens but require buying bags. Bagless easy to inspect and empty but dust exposure when cleaning bin.
Are cordless vacuums as powerful as corded models?
Cordless vacuums were initially weak, but battery voltages have improved significantly. Newer cordless models like Dyson V10/V11 have equivalent suction to corded vacuums. Just be sure to buy lithium-ion cordless vacuums from quality brands.
What type of vacuum is best for pet hair?
Look for uprights and canisters with specialized pet tools and HEPA filters:
- Motorized brush roll helps grab pet hair
- Pet dusting brush cleans hair off furniture
- Hard plastic nozzles resist clogs from hair
Top brands for pet hair include Dyson, Shark, Bissell, Oreck and Eureka.
How do I choose the right vacuum attachments?
Dusting brush – Furniture, blinds, upholstery
Crevice tool – Corners, baseboards, tight areas
Upholstery nozzle – Couches, chairs, mattresses
Pet brush tool – Removes hair from stairs, sofas
Extension wand – Extends reach for ceilings, fans
Choose attachments for the surfaces and cleaning tasks you need to tackle.
What does HEPA filtration mean?
HEPA stands for “high efficiency particulate air” filters. They capture 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns in size, including dust, dander, mold and bacteria. HEPA vacuums have extra filtration to trap allergens and keep exhaust air clean. Ideal for allergies and asthma.
Why does my vacuum smell bad or have a burning odor?
A few common reasons vacuums can smell bad:
- Dirty filter needs replacing or cleaning
- Build up of dirt, hair, debris in bin or bag
- Vac motor clogged and overheating
- Blocked hose, wand or beater brush
Follow instructions to deep clean filters, bins and check for clogs. Consult manual or manufacturer if smell persists.
How can I deep clean my vacuum?
To keep vacuums working efficiently:
- Empty bin/bag often to avoid buildup
- Clean or change filters regularly
- Remove hair from brush rolls and nozzles
- Use attachments to vacuum up clogs
- Disinfect bins and tools with hot water or wipes
- Spot clean exterior as needed
- Consult manual for model-specific maintenance
How do I clear a clogged vacuum?
First turn off and unplug the vacuum. Check common clog points like:
- Hose attachment inlets – Remove debris with crevice tool
- Brush roll – Carefully cut out tangled hair
- Wheels – Remove threads or carpet fiber buildup
- Suction opening – Use scissors to snip away debris
- Dust cup/bin – Empty fully and clean regularly
Avoid picks/coat hangers that could damage parts. Refer to manual for model-specific unclogging.
When is it time to replace my old vacuum?
Replace when vacuum:
- Has weak, declining suction
- Cannot be unclogged despite efforts
- Needs frequent repairs and has costly parts
- Lacks features you need like HEPA filtering
- Is more than 5-7 years old
- Can’t deep clean carpets effectively any more
Buying a new vacuum every 5-7 years ensures maximum floor cleaning results. Donate or recycle the old one!
What are signs my vacuum needs repair?
Have vacuum serviced or repaired if it:
- Has weak or no suction
- Makes odd noises like rattling or squeaking
- Has a burning smell from motor
- Won’t turn on or keeps shutting off
- Leaves visible dirt/debris behind
- Has a cracked or damaged hose
- Cord won’t retract or power head won’t turn
Consult manual troubleshooting tips first before assuming it’s a lost cause!
What is the best way to store my vacuum?
- Wrap cord neatly on hooks
- Empty dust cup and clean filter
- Detach hand tools and clean
- Store on-board attachments if possible
- Hang or stand upright if possible
- Avoid placing heavy objects on top
Proper storage promotes vacuum longevity and ensures it’s ready for the next use.
How do I vacuum stairs?
Use attachments to vacuum every step, edge and riser thoroughly.
- Use handheld or detachable canister for easy mobility
- Start at top step and work way down
- Clean bottom edges of steps in crevices
- Adjust handle height for comfort carrying up/down
Take care vacuuming stairs and clean them regularly to avoid buildup.
What maintenance does my vacuum need?
- Empty dust cup or change bag frequently
- Clean filters as needed – wash or replace
- Remove hair and debris from brush rolls, wheels
- Check belts and motors, replace worn parts
- Clean bin and tubes with disinfectant
- Inspect attachments and cords for damage
- Remove blockages and clogs promptly
Follow manual guide for model-specific maintenance. Well-maintained vacuums last longer.
Is vacuuming enough or should I steam clean carpets too?
Vacuuming is essential for regular maintenance to remove surface dirt. However, for deeper cleaning consider steam cleaning carpets every 6-12 months. Steam cleaning extracts stuck-on grime, residue and allergens vacuuming leaves behind.
What are vacuum maintenance tips?
- Keep extra filters and belts on hand
- Clean bin, tubes and filters frequently
- Remove blockages promptly
- Inspect attachments for damage
- Follow manual maintenance schedule
- Track hours used to replace parts on time
- Sign up for warranty alerts and service reminders
- Use model-specific attachments
Proper maintenance keeps vacuums running smoothly for years.
Transform Your Home’s Cleanliness
With carpets and floors comprising over 20% of home environments, keeping them clean is critical for health and home care. Regular vacuuming removes allergens, dust, dirt, pet dander and debris that otherwise accumulate and circulate through air.
Choosing the right vacuum ensures effortless, thorough home cleaning. Consider your flooring types, cleaning needs and lifestyle when deciding which of these outstanding vacuums could improve your home hygiene.
Investing in a high-performing vacuum pays off with cleaner air quality, reduced allergies, and a sense of peace knowing your home’s surfaces are free of irritants. Just a few passes with one of these powerful cleaners, and you can already breathe easier. Give your floors the care they deserve and your home an uplifting deep clean with one of these top-of-the-line vacuums!