Eufy Keeping your floors looking their best is no easy feat, especially when you have carpets, pets, and messy kids running around the house. That’s why having a powerful, reliable vacuum cleaner is a must. When it comes to household vacuums, Kenmore has been a trusted brand for years.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the top 4 Kenmore vacuums on the market and how to choose the right model for your needs. You’ll also find answers to frequently asked questions about these iconic appliances.
A Legacy Brand for Clean Floors
The Kenmore brand has been around for over 100 years, earning a reputation for quality appliances and vacuums at affordable price points. Kenmore vacuums are known for having excellent suction power, durable construction, and convenient features. While not all models are created equal, some Kenmore vacuums can compete closely with more expensive brands like Dyson.
Kenmore vacuums come in upright, canister, stick, and handheld varieties to tackle every cleaning need. From deep carpet cleaning to hard floors, stairs, upholstery and more, Kenmore vacuums aim to make home cleaning fast and frustration-free.
Keep reading to discover the top 4 Kenmore vacuums to consider and get the inside scoop on which is best for your home.
The Best 4 Kenmore Vacuum Cleaners
Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly UltraPlush Lift-Away
The Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly UltraPlush Lift-Away is a top choice for homes with lots of carpeting and pets. It has an impressive suite of features specially geared for pet hair removal.
This Kenmore upright vacuum provides powerful suction with a tangle-free brush roll and HEPA filtration. The Lift-Away canister detaches easily to become a portable vacuum for stairs, furniture and more.
Key features include:
- Strong suction with multi-surface PowerFlow technology
- Tangle-free brush roll avoids jams from pet hair
- HEPA filter traps 99.97% of dust and allergens
- LED lights to illuminate debris
- Lift-Away canister for portable cleaning
- Pet PowerMate attachment for stairs, upholstery and cars
- Large dust cup capacity
Pros:
- Excellent at deep cleaning carpets and area rugs
- Specialized pet hair cleaning tools
- Large cleaning path and dust capacity
- Canister detaches for portability
Cons:
- Heavy and bulky
- More expensive price point
The Kenmore Elite Lift-Away is ideal for homes with lots of pet hair to manage with carpeting throughout. The lift-away design makes cleaning stairs and furniture a breeze.
Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet & Allergy Vacuum
For allergy sufferers, the Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet & Allergy vacuum delivers serious filtration. This bagged upright vacuum seals away dust and allergens.
Key features include:
- HEPA media filtration
- Sealed filtration bags
- Multi-surface PowerFlow brushes
- LED lights and pet hair tools
- Retractable cord
Pros:
- Excellent filtration for allergies
- Lower dust exposure with sealed bags
- Easy storage with cord wrap
- Good suction power for carpets
Cons:
- Replacement bags are required
- Head doesn’t swivel
The sealed HEPA filtration system makes this Kenmore vacuum ideal for allergy sufferers and pet owners. It provides cleaner air quality during use. The PowerFlow brushes are effective at cleaning carpets and hard floors.
Kenmore 200 Series Bagged Canister Vacuum
For those desiring a canister model, the Kenmore 200 Series bagged vacuum is a budget-friendly option. This versatile machine converts into a hand vac easily.
Key features include:
- Powerful yet quiet motor
- HEPA media filtration
- Onboard attachments
- Large cleaning radius
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Cleans carpets, hard floors and furniture
- Good suction reach of 30 feet
- Large dust capacity
Cons:
- No swivel steering
- Significant noise level
The 200 Series canister vacuum provides proven cleaning on all floor types. The attachments allow you to clean curtains, ceilings, cars and more. For budget-focused buyers, it’s a strong canister vacuum option.
Kenmore 600 Series Bagged Upright Vacuum
Another affordable Kenmore upright is the 600 Series bagged model. It comes with useful tools for cleaning multiple surfaces.
Key features include:
- Allergen filtration system
- Lift-away canister
- Onboard pet hair brush
- Large dust bag capacity
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price
- Lift-away design provides portability
- HEPA media filtration traps dust
- Powerful suction for carpets
Cons:
- Bulky and heavy
- Few attachments included
This no-frills vacuum focuses on straightforward carpet and floor cleaning. The lift-away canister makes it more versatile for above-floor jobs. For basic cleaning power on a budget, it hits the affordability sweet spot.
How to Choose the Right Kenmore Vacuum
With so many options out there, choosing the ideal Kenmore vacuum takes some consideration. Here are the key factors to keep in mind:
Consider Your Home Type
What kinds of floors and rooms will you be vacuuming? Homes with lots of carpeting and rugs do best with an upright Kenmore vacuum that specializes in deep carpet cleaning. Canisters and stick vacuums are ideal for hard flooring. Measure room sizes and square footage to ensure your Kenmore has the reach and capacity to clean efficiently.
If you have pets, look for a Kenmore with specialized pet hair tools, a tangle-free brush roll, and HEPA filtration. For allergy sufferers, a bagged vacuum or sealed HEPA system helps contain dust.
Consider Your Budget
Kenmore vacuums range from affordable basic models under $150 to premium vacuums with more features and power up to $500+. First figure out your budget, then look for a Kenmore with good suction, reliable performance and the features you need within that price bracket.
You get what you pay for when it comes to longevity and cleaning performance. But there are some strong mid-range options in the $250 price tier.
Upright vs Canister Design
Uprights excel at cleaning carpets and rugs thanks to their motorized brush rolls. They tend to be heavier though and lack maneuverability for above-floor cleaning. Self-propelled uprights are easier to push than manual models.
Canisters offer more versatility for hard floors, furniture, curtains and stairs. The hoses provide extended reach and the powerheads clean carpet efficiently. Some downsides are the extra maneuvering of the canister unit and louder noise levels.
Filtration System
For those sensitive to dust, look for a Kenmore vacuum with true HEPA filtration. This will trap ultrafine particles and allergens as small as 0.3 microns. Sealed HEPA systems maintain filtration as dust travels through the vacuum.
Bags do a better job sealing in dust than bagless vacuums. But bagged models require you to purchase replacement bags periodically. If you opt for a bagless model, be prepared to empty the dust cup frequently.
Suction Power
More motor watts and air watts generally equal stronger suction performance. Check the specifications for motor power and airflow ratings. Most top Kenmore vacuums have motors over 700 watts for carpet cleaning. Multi-surface adapters also help optimize suction as you transition between floor types.
Convenient Features
Look for extras that make your vacuum easier to use like swivel steering, retractable cords, onboard storage for attachments, variable suction modes, and brush roll on/off switches. LED headlights and dirt sensors are handy bonuses too.
Warranty & Support
Kenmore vacuums usually come with 1-5 year limited warranties. Be sure you know what’s covered should you need repairs. You can purchase extended warranties for further peace of mind. Kenmore also has support centers around the country for maintenance and service needs.
Recommended Models
Here are my top Kenmore picks based on common home needs:
- For carpet cleaning:Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly UltraPlush Lift-Away
- For hard floors:Kenmore 200 Series Bagged Canister Vacuum
- For pet hair removal:Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet & Allergy Vacuum
- For allergy sufferers:Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet & Allergy Vacuum
- For a tight budget:Kenmore 600 Series Bagged Upright Vacuum
- For large homes:Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly UltraPlush Lift-Away
Frequently Asked Questions About Kenmore Vacuums
Before you purchase a new Kenmore vacuum, here are answers to some common questions:
What is Kenmore known for in vacuums?
Kenmore has over 100 years of experience making home appliances. They are known for quality vacuums that offer great value. Key strengths are strong suction power, reliability, and convenient features.
Are Kenmore vacuums made by Panasonic?
No, Kenmore vacuums are not made by Panasonic. Kenmore partners with various manufacturers to produce their vacuum models. Some current partners include CleanFlow, Dirt Devil and Eureka.
Where are Kenmore vacuums manufactured?
It depends on the specific model, but common countries where Kenmore vacuums are produced include China, Mexico and the United States. The brand works with manufacturers around the world.
What is the average lifespan of a Kenmore vacuum?
With proper maintenance, the average Kenmore vacuum will last between 5-8 years. Upright vacuums tend to have a slightly longer lifespan than canister models. Higher-end Kenmore vacuums also tend to have better longevity than cheaper models.
How do I choose bags for my Kenmore vacuum?
Consult your owner’s manual to find the correct replacement bag model number and size. Generic or off-brand vacuum bags can clog and damage the machine. Stick with genuine Kenmore bags designed specifically for your vacuum.
Can I purchase replacement parts and filters?
Yes, you can purchase genuine Kenmore vacuum parts like belts, brushes, hoses and filters either online or from Kenmore support centers. Having some spare parts on hand helps reduce downtime.
What kind of warranty do Kenmore vacuums have?
Most Kenmore vacuums come with a 1-5 year limited warranty. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. You’ll have to show proof of purchase and purchase date. Longer warranties are offered for more expensive models.
Does Kenmore offer cordless stick vacuums?
Yes, Kenmore does offer cordless stick vacuums optimized for quick cleanups on hard floors. For example, the Kenmore CU310 Cordless Stick Vacuum is lightweight with up to 35 minutes of runtime.
How do Kenmore vacuums compare to Dyson?
Kenmore vacuums are typically more affordable and provide strong value. Dyson vacuums are known for innovations and cutting-edge technology. Suction power and features can be comparable, so Kenmore provides an appealing budget-friendly alternative to Dyson’s offerings.
Are Kenmore vacuums good for pet hair?
Yes, many Kenmore vacuums excel at removing pet hair. Look for models with specialized pet hair tools, tangle-free brush rolls, and features like LED lights to spot debris. Some top choices are the Kenmore Elite Pet Friendly Lift-Away and the Kenmore Elite 31150.
Find Your Perfect Kenmore Vacuum
Kenmore has stood the test of time when it comes to quality vacuums that get your floors clean without breaking the bank. Use this guide to pinpoint which of the top 4 models fits your household cleaning needs. Keep the key factors and FAQs in mind as you shop.
With the right Kenmore vacuum, you’ll be able to wrangle pet hair, banish dust bunnies, and make your floors shine again. Who couldn’t use a little less mess and a little more sparkle in their home? Happy vacuum shopping!
