Finding the best vacuum cleaner that suits your home needs can be challenging with so many options available. We’ve compiled a comparison of top-rated vacuum cleaners from leading brands like Shark and Eureka. This guide covers key features such as maneuverability, suction power, filtration systems, and usability on various floor types including carpets, hard floors, and pet hair management. Below is a summary table of the top 5 recommended vacuum cleaners to help you decide quickly.
| Vacuum Cleaner | Type | Weight | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E | Upright | Lightweight | Lift-Away Pod with HEPA Filter for Allergens |
| Eureka Airspeed NEU10AE4 | Compact Upright | 7.7 lbs | Powerful Suction & Quick-Release Handle |
| Eureka WhirlWind NEN110A | Canister | 8.15 lbs | Bagless with Washable Filters |
| Eureka 3670M Canister Vacuum | Canister | 8.6 lbs | Powerful 12-Amp Motor with Dust Bags |
| Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum | Stick / Handheld 3-in-1 | 4 lbs | Compact Lightweight & Swivel Steering |
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is an upright vacuum featuring a detachable pod, enabling easy cleaning of stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach places. Its HEPA filter traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. The vacuum’s brushroll shutoff allows seamless transition between deep carpets and bare floors, improving maneuverability. Swivel steering further enhances control around furniture. This model is suitable for homes with pets and various flooring types, combining versatility with powerful cleaning performance.
Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Upright Vacuum
This Eureka Airspeed NEU10AE4 vacuum cleaner delivers powerful suction across hard floors and carpets, thanks to its 700-watt motor. Weighing only 7.7 pounds, it offers easy maneuverability and storage. The vacuum includes a quick-release handle, crevice tool, and dusting brush for above-floor cleaning like upholstery and windows. Its 10.5-inch cleaning path speeds up vacuuming larger areas, making it a practical option for households needing lightweight yet efficient cleaning tools.
Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner
The Eureka WhirlWind NEN110A is a bagless canister vacuum renowned for its multi-surface cleaning capabilities. It features a 960-watt motor and integrated airflow control on the handle, which enhances convenience during carpet, upholstery, and hard floor cleaning. Weighing 8.15 pounds, it offers excellent maneuverability with swivel steering and a telescoping wand for tight spaces. Its washable filters and no-bag design minimize maintenance costs and environmental impact.
Eureka 3670M Canister Vacuum Cleaner with Bags
The Eureka 3670M combines a powerful 12-amp motor with a dust bag capacity of 2.5 liters for extended cleaning sessions. Weighing 8.6 pounds, this canister vacuum is easy to carry across rooms. It is designed for whole-home cleaning, including carpets, upholstery, stairs, and cars. The included five replacement bags ensure convenience for longer-term use. This model is excellent if you prefer a traditional bagged vacuum with strong suction and practical portability.
Eureka Blaze 3-in-1 Stick Vacuum Cleaner
The ultra-lightweight Eureka Blaze at just 4 pounds offers a versatile 3-in-1 design combining stick, handheld, and crevice tool functionality. It effectively collects surface dirt and pet hair on multiple surfaces with its capture nozzle feature, preventing debris scatter. Its signature swiveling steering improves maneuvering around tight spaces compared to standard stick vacuums. Best suited for quick pickups and spot cleaning, this vacuum is ideal for small areas or homes needing a portable, easy-to-use option.
Buying Guide for Choosing the Best Vacuum Cleaner
When selecting a vacuum cleaner, consider the following factors to suit your home cleaning needs:
Type of Vacuum
- Upright vacuums are versatile, powerful, and good for large carpeted areas.
- Canister vacuums offer better maneuverability, ideal for hard floors, stairs, and upholstery.
- Stick vacuums are lightweight and convenient for small spaces or quick surface cleaning.
- Handheld vacuums suit spot cleaning but often lack large dust capacity.
Suction Power and Motor Wattage
Stronger motors generally provide better suction. A range from 700 to 1200 watts covers most household needs. Consider a vacuum with consistent suction and good airflow control to clean deep carpets without clogging or loss of power.
Filtration System
For allergy sufferers, select models with HEPA filters or complete sealing systems that trap fine dust and allergens. Washable filters can reduce maintenance costs.
Maneuverability and Weight
Lightweight vacuums (under 10 pounds) are easier to carry and maneuver around furniture or up stairs. Swivel steering enhances control in tight spaces.
Bagged vs. Bagless
- Bagged vacuums tend to contain dust well but require ongoing purchase of bags.
- Bagless vacuums are economical and easy to empty but may require filter cleaning.
Attachments and Additional Features
Consider vacuums with crevice tools, dusting brushes, and lift-away capabilities for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and cars. Brushroll shutoff features allow gentle cleaning on hard floors without scratching.
Dustbin Capacity
Larger dust bins or bags mean fewer interruptions for emptying during cleaning sessions, beneficial for larger homes.