Finding the best upright vacuum cleaner that effectively handles pet hair and works seamlessly on various floor types can be challenging. This guide reviews top-rated vacuums offering powerful suction, advanced filtration, and ease of use. Below is a summary table highlighting key features of the selected products to help you make an informed decision.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E | Shark | Lift-away pod, HEPA filter, brushroll shutoff |
| Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright | Bissell | Swivel steering, pet hair tools, multi-cyclonic system |
| Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Vacuum | Shark | PowerFins HairPro, self-cleaning brushroll, odor neutralizer |
| Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Vacuum | Eureka | Lightweight, multi-surface, large dust cup |
| Shark LA502 Rotator Lift-Away | Shark | DuoClean PowerFins, self-cleaning brushroll, LED headlights |
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner
This Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E model offers versatile cleaning with its lift-away detachable pod, allowing easy access to stairs and furniture. The vacuum features an anti-allergen complete seal combined with a HEPA filter that traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, ideal for allergy sufferers. Its brushroll shutoff allows switching between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor treatments. The included crevice tool and dusting brush enhance above-floor cleaning. Its swivel steering aids maneuverability while being lightweight enough for extended use.
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum
The Bissell CleanView 2252 features swivel steering for excellent maneuverability around furniture. Its triple action brush roll loosens, lifts, and removes embedded pet hair, making it a strong choice for pet owners. This model uses a multi-cyclonic cleaning system and has an air flow indicator to maintain peak performance. Bissell supports pet welfare through its foundation, adding a charitable benefit to purchases. This vacuum also includes specialized pet tools and a large dirt tank for less frequent emptying.
Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum
The Shark ZU102 Rotator excels at pet hair removal with its PowerFins HairPro technology that actively grips stubborn long and short hairs on carpets and floors. It features a self-cleaning brushroll to prevent hair wrap, reducing maintenance. An additional odor neutralizer technology helps keep your home smelling fresh by guarding against unpleasant vacuum odors. The 2.9L dust cup offers ample capacity for larger cleaning sessions without frequent stops.
Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum
This Eureka PowerSpeed model is lightweight at just 10 lbs, offering portability without sacrificing cleaning power. It adapts to different floor types with five height adjustment settings. The turbo pet tool enhances pet hair pickup on carpets. Its extra-large 2.6L dust cup allows uninterrupted cleaning sessions. The foam filtration captures fine dust, making it a practical and budget-friendly choice for homes with mixed flooring.
Shark LA502 Rotator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
The Shark LA502 features DuoClean PowerFins technology with two brushrolls working simultaneously for efficient debris pickup on carpets and hard floors. Its self-cleaning brushroll eliminates hair wrap, perfect for pet owners. LED headlights illuminate hidden dust and debris for comprehensive cleaning. Designed with pet hair in mind, this vacuum guarantees strong suction and effortless hair pickup without frequent maintenance interruptions.
Buying Guide for Upright Vacuum Cleaners
Choosing the right upright vacuum requires assessing several key factors:
- Suction Power and Brushroll Features: Look for models with adjustable brushrolls or shutoff options for versatile cleaning on carpets and hard floors. Pet hair-specific technologies like self-cleaning brushrolls or PowerFins enhance hair removal.
- Filtration Systems: HEPA filters or sealed allergen systems are critical for trapping fine dust and allergens, especially for allergy-prone homes.
- Maneuverability: Swivel steering, lightweight design, and lift-away pods improve handling around furniture and enable above-floor cleaning.
- Dust Cup Capacity and Bagless Convenience: Larger dust cups reduce emptying frequency. Bagless designs are easier to maintain but check for easy-empty mechanisms to minimize dust exposure.
- Additional Tools and Attachments: Crevice tools, pet turbo brushes, and dusting brushes increase cleaning versatility, especially for upholstery and stairs.
- Odor Control Technologies: Some vacuums include odor neutralizers to maintain freshness during and after cleaning.
- Weight and Storage: Lightweight and compact models are easier to carry and store, important for multi-level homes or small spaces.
- Price and Brand Support: Reliable brands with good warranty and customer support ensure long-term satisfaction.
Considering these aspects will help you select the best upright vacuum cleaner tailored to your home’s flooring, pet hair challenges, and cleaning preferences.