Fast Take: A Capable Pet-Focused Canister for Small-Medium Homes
The Kenmore 22614 Bagless Canister Vacuum delivers strong suction, pet-focused features, and true HEPA filtration, earning a reliable 4-star rating from over 600 Amazon customers. It’s pitched in the mid-range price tier and offers value for pet owners or those in need of versatile cleaning. Downsides include small capacity and some maneuverability concerns, but for homes with limited storage or mixed flooring, it satisfies most essential needs.
Notable Features and Core Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Special Features | Lightweight, Compact, Bagless, HEPA |
| Power | 120 watts, 0.16 HP motor |
| Filter System | True HEPA, filterless dust cup |
| Cord | Retractable (corded, not cordless) |
| Weight | 22.4 lbs |
| Noise Level | 75 dB |
| Wand | Extended, telescoping |
| Included Tools | 2 cleaning tools + Pet Powermate |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 16.15″ x 24.63″ x 17.18″ |
At-a-Glance: User Feedback & Sentiment
Among 685 U.S. reviewers, strong suction and ease of use are most frequently praised, but opinions are split on build quality and maneuverability. Around 60% emphasize ease of operation, while about 30% cite minor or major build-related concerns.
- “Powerful suction on carpets and floors—great for pet hair.”—Amazon reviewer
- “It’s easy to convert for different surfaces. Switching from carpet to handheld is quick.”
- “Build quality could be better…some parts feel a bit flimsy.”—Verified customer
Storage capacity receives more negative mentions, particularly from those with larger cleaning areas or frequent messes.
Design & First Impressions: Compact and Functional
The Kenmore 22614’s compact canister design in a purple “Eggplant” finish stands out in its segment. Its rounded chamber and low-profile form make it easy to tuck away even in smaller closets or utility rooms.
The vacuum sits on four wheels, designed for a tight-turning radius—convenient for navigating furniture or crowded spaces.
At 22.4 lbs, it isn’t the lightest on the market, but its rolling chassis and extended telescoping wand minimize lifting except across stairs or uneven surfaces.
Performance on Carpets and Hard Floors
The real-world performance hinges on its 120-watt motor and Pet Powermate attachment. For households with shedding pets, the rotating brush tackles embedded hair on carpets with above-average efficiency.
Users report powerful suction and note that switching attachments or converting to handheld is seamless—especially useful for moving from stairs to upholstery or tight spaces.
Some, however, mention that the floor/carpet mechanism can occasionally malfunction or stop working, hinting at potential reliability issues over time.
Filtration and Dust Management
The inclusion of a True HEPA filter sets the Kenmore 22614 apart in allergen-sensitive homes. It captures dust, dander, and fine particles down to microscopic levels.
There’s no need for replacement bags: the filterless dust cup system collects debris in a central chamber that empties quickly. This saves operating costs and reduces hassle, but its small size means you’ll be emptying it more often—especially if you have pets or frequently vacuum large spaces.
Versatility: Attachments, Reach, and Storage
The included Pet Powermate and two additional cleaning tools cover both carpets and hard floors. The extended telescoping wand provides reach under furniture and along high shelves.
Quick-release buttons make attachment swapping fast—ideal for cleaning sessions that move from floors to upholstery to car interiors.
Its compact size, however, is a double-edged sword: it’s simple to store, but limited dirt capacity may frustrate users with heavy cleaning demands.
Noise and Usability
Operating at 75 dB, the Kenmore 22614 is about as loud as most canister vacuums—audible, but not overwhelmingly noisy in a typical home environment.
The retractable cord and push-button controls make setup and storage straightforward. Some reviews mention the vacuum is a bit heavy to carry, though moving it across floors is generally manageable.
How the Kenmore 22614 Stacks Up Against Competitors
| Model | Suction (Watts) | Filter Type | Weight (lbs) | Pet Tool? | Noise (dB) | User Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenmore 22614 | 120 | HEPA | 22.4 | Yes (Pet Powermate) | 75 | 4.0 |
| Miele Classic C1 Pure Suction (est.) | 1200 | AirClean (HEPA available) | 14.8 | No | 70 | 4.7 |
| Bissell Zing Bagless Canister (est.) | 1200 | Standard | 11.2 | No | 78 | 4.1 |
The Kenmore 22614 competes closely with the Bissell Zing, offering stronger pet hair cleaning but at a higher weight and with a more advanced HEPA filter. Meanwhile, the Miele Classic C1 costs more, weighs less, and boasts superior build quality—though its pet tool is an optional add-on.
Who Should Consider the Kenmore 22614—and Who Shouldn’t
- Buy if: You own pets, need allergy reduction, or prefer a bagless vacuum for apartments or moderately sized homes.
- You value quick-release accessories and true HEPA filtration.
- Your storage space is limited but you need upright-level power.
- Skip if: You require a large-capacity dust cup for frequent cleaning of big homes.
- You are highly focused on premium build quality or silent operation.
- You want the lightest possible canister or need cordless operation.
Value, Pricing, and the Best Time to Buy
The Kenmore 22614 canister vacuum is positioned in the mid-range price tier for bagless models. MSRP is generally at the upper end for its category, but deals or discounts can bring it into a more competitive range. Based on available history (Keepa not supplied), top value is seen when the price dips below promotional levels. Aim to buy under the category average for maximum value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is assembly required out of the box?
Yes, some basic assembly is required, primarily attaching the wand and accessories.
Does the vacuum work well on high pile or shag carpets?
It performs best on low-to-medium pile carpets and hard floors, though its pet attachment delivers decent results on thicker rugs.
How often does the dust cup need emptying?
Homes with pets or high debris should expect to empty it every 1-2 cleaning sessions, due to its small capacity.
Is the HEPA filter washable?
The main HEPA filter can generally be tapped clean or gently vacuumed, but for optimal performance, periodic replacement is advised.
Can this vacuum be used for car cleaning?
Yes. Its handheld and tool attachments are effective for interior car upholstery and crevices.
Conclusion: Final Word on the Kenmore 22614’s Real-World Value
The Kenmore 22614 Bagless Canister Vacuum stands out for its genuine HEPA filtration, pet-focused tools, and maneuverable design. Its bagless system saves ongoing costs, while quick-release accessories give it flexibility on mixed surfaces. Though limited by a smaller dust chamber and some concerns about build quality, it remains a solid option for allergy-conscious, pet-owning households—especially where storage or budget are priorities. For most U.S. buyers seeking reliable, everyday cleaning, it’s a practical and balanced choice from Kenmore.