Quick Verdict: Strong Cleaning in a Versatile, User-Friendly Package
The Kenmore 81714 700 Series Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner & Compact Carpet Cleaner delivers impressive all-surface cleaning with specialized pet hair tools. Combining strong suction, a HEPA filter, and thoughtful touches for allergy management, it reliably tackles embedded dirt and pet messes. This mid-priced canister vacuum earns a 4.1-star rating from hundreds of reviewers, making it a trustworthy option for homes with pets, carpets, or diverse floor types.
Feature Highlights and Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Kenmore |
| Model Number | 81714 |
| Vacuum Type | Canister |
| Filtration | HEPA Filter, captures 99.97% of dust |
| Special Features | Bagless, Pet PowerMate motorized pet tool, Ultra Plush nozzle, Performance Indicator |
| Weight | Under 11 lbs |
| Recommended Surfaces | Carpet, upholstery, auto interiors |
| Corded/Cordless | Corded |
| Control Method | Push Button, App |
| Included Components | Nozzle, HEPA filter |
| Bestseller Rank | #40 in Canister Vacuum Cleaners |
Deep Cleaning Performance for Pet Owners and Busy Households
What sets the Kenmore 81714 apart is its dedicated Pet PowerMate attachment. This motorized tool hunts down stubborn pet hair and dust from both carpets and difficult corners, making it a standout for pet-friendly homes.
The Ultra Plush nozzle leverages increased airflow to penetrate thick, ultra-plush carpets, ensuring thorough dirt and allergen removal that standard vacuums may miss. It’s a must-have for those with high-pile or luxury carpeting seeking a deeper, more complete clean.
HEPA Filtration and Allergy-Friendly Features
Equipped with a HEPA media filter, the Kenmore 81714 canister vacuum traps 99.97% of dust, pollen, pet dander, and fine particles. This is crucial for allergy sufferers or families with asthma, as it helps maintain a cleaner and healthier indoor environment.
The built-in performance indicator is a handy detail, alerting users when the bag is full or if a clog occurs, reducing guesswork and keeping the vacuum operating at peak efficiency.
Lightweight, Portable Design for Easy Use and Storage
Weighing less than 11 pounds, the Kenmore 81714 is surprisingly portable for a full-powered canister vacuum. It can be carried up and down stairs or maneuvered into tight spaces with ease.
A single power level keeps operation straightforward, allowing even novice users to achieve professional-grade results without fussing over complicated settings.
Compact Carpet Cleaning for Spills and Stains
Beyond standard vacuuming, this model includes spot cleaning capabilities for carpets, upholstery, and auto interiors. Its powerful suction is designed to lift tough stains from soft furnishings and car seats, greatly extending the vacuum’s utility.
If you frequently deal with spills or high-traffic carpeted areas, the compact carpet cleaning function makes tough jobs less daunting.
User Feedback Overview: Performance in Real Homes
The Kenmore 81714 maintains a 4.1-star average from over 800 reviewers. Over 80% of buyers rate it at 4 or 5 stars, often citing its strong suction and effective pet hair removal as standout strengths.
- Many users highlight the effectiveness of the Pet PowerMate tool, stating it “pulls up pet hair from rugs other vacuums leave behind.”
- Another frequent point of praise is for its light weight and maneuverability: “Easy to carry, easy to handle, and gets every corner.”
- Some mention minor negatives, such as noise level or bag changes, but the overall sentiment is positive.
Sample customer feedback includes:
“Works great for dog hair—floors and couches alike—very pleased.”
“Filter is easy to replace, and the cleaner is much quieter than older models.”
Competitive Comparison: How Kenmore 81714 Measures Up
| Model | Type | Weight | Filtration | Special Pet Tools | Bagged/Bagless | Price Tier |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kenmore 81714 | Canister | 11 lbs | HEPA | Motorized Pet PowerMate | Bagged | Mid |
| Miele Classic C1 | Canister | 12 lbs | AirClean (non-HEPA std) | Optional Pet Attachments | Bagged | Mid-High |
| BISSELL Zing 2156A | Canister | 10 lbs | Standard filter | No special pet tools | Bagless | Budget |
Compared to the Miele Classic C1, the Kenmore 81714 offers similar convenience but has the advantage of a dedicated motorized pet tool and true HEPA filtration in the standard spec. The BISSELL Zing is lighter and cheaper but lacks the same level of filtration and pet hair capability.
Who Will Appreciate the Kenmore 81714—and Who Should Pass
- Buy it if you have multiple flooring types and want reliable deep-cleaning power for carpets, rugs, and hard floors.
- It’s an excellent choice for pet owners struggling with stubborn fur or dander.
- If allergy control is a priority, the sealed HEPA system delivers peace of mind.
- Its lightweight design suits multi-story homes or anyone who dislikes heavy upright models.
- If you dislike bagged vacuums or want cordless operation, consider alternatives.
Assessing Value: Price Tier and Ideal Discount Range
The Kenmore 81714 sits in the mid-range price category for canister vacuums. The MSRP typically places it within reach for those shopping premium mass-market brands. It occasionally drops to below the standard list price during major sale events.
According to (est.) Keepa history, the ideal buy-under price is often during end-of-year sales or Prime Day, where it becomes a stronger value relative to premium German brands or budget models with limited features.
User Questions Answered: Kenmore 81714 FAQ
Q: Does the Kenmore 81714 work well on hardwood floors as well as carpets?
A: Yes, the vacuum head is safe for most hard floors, and its suction and attachments allow for efficient multi-surface cleaning.
Q: Can it clean high-pile or shag carpets?
A: The Ultra Plush nozzle is designed precisely for thick and plush carpets, providing a thorough and even clean.
Q: Is the Pet PowerMate attachment effective for cat and dog hair?
A: Yes. The Pet PowerMate is motorized and excels at removing ground-in pet hair from upholstery and carpets.
Q: Is the vacuum easy to empty and maintain?
A: The bag is straightforward to replace, and the performance indicator alerts you when servicing is needed.
Q: Does it offer app connectivity or smart features?
A: While “App” is listed as a control method, there are no widely documented smart features; expect primarily manual controls.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy the Kenmore 81714?
The Kenmore 81714 700 Series Canister Vacuum & Compact Carpet Cleaner stands out for pet households and allergy sufferers, thanks to its motorized pet tool and sealed HEPA filtration. This vacuum is lightweight, maneuverable, and thoughtfully designed for real-life versatility.
The dual capability—combining powerful carpet spot cleaning and day-to-day vacuuming—makes it an asset for busy homes. Its user-centric features, like the Ultra Plush nozzle and bag performance indicator, demonstrate Kenmore’s longstanding reputation for practical innovation.
For shoppers seeking a mid-priced, feature-rich canister vacuum that tackles hair, allergens, and deep-set dirt, the 81714 remains a competitive and sensible pick.