Efficient Pet Hair Cleaning with User-Friendly Design
The Kenmore DU1040 Upright Vacuum stands out for pet owners and busy households seeking efficient, no-fuss cleaning. Earning a solid 4.1 out of 5 stars from over 2,400 customers, it’s a mid-range vacuum priced to fit most household budgets. Its lightweight body, strong suction, and pet-focused tools make it a compelling choice for homes balancing hard floors and carpet. Build quality is sometimes debated, but the convenience and cleaning results generally win users over.
Essential Specifications and Features at a Glance
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand / Model | Kenmore DU1040 |
| Weight | 12 pounds |
| Vacuum Type | Upright, Bagless |
| Filter Type | Foam filter |
| Height Adjustments | 4 levels |
| Hose Length | 7 feet |
| Noise Level | 72 dB |
| Attachments Included | Pet HandiMate®, 3-in-1 tool, upholstery brush, extension wand |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Assembly | Required |
| Power | 115 watts (8 Amps) |
| Cordless | No |
The Kenmore DU1040’s impressive accessory package ensures total home coverage, and its ultra-lightweight frame is built for easy lifting and storage.
Real User Experiences: Feedback Highlights
According to reviews, powerful suction and adjustable performance are the main standouts. 82% of users praise its lightweight frame as “easy to carry upstairs” and excellent for daily use. Many pet owners appreciate the Pet HandiMate® for effectively picking up fur and dander, while the tool-free assembly makes the first use hassle-free for 90% of buyers.
- “This vacuum is so easy to maneuver and really gets everything up, including dog hair.”
- “Super lightweight and simple to empty. Works great for my studio apartment.”
- “It worked well for about a year, but then a part broke. Otherwise, I loved it.”
Durability and size get mixed marks: some users wish it were more robust and spacious, while others like its compact footprint for small spaces.
Performance Review: Everyday Versatility
The Kenmore DU1040’s 4-height adjustment system is a highlight—making it easy to switch between thick carpets and hard floors. The Pet HandiMate® attachment works especially well on stairs and upholstery, targeting pet fur that tends to cling.
During use, its swivel steering system allows easy movement around obstacles. Lightweight design means less fatigue, even when vacuuming multiple rooms. With a noise level of 72 dB, it’s about average for uprights and not excessively disruptive.
Included Attachments and Tool Quality
The device comes with a practical selection of tools designed for both broad cleaning and detailed jobs. The flexible hose stretches to 7 feet, allowing users to reach high shelves, under furniture, and in tight corners.
- Pet HandiMate®: Motorized for pet hair
- 3-in-1 Combination Tool: Crevice, dusting, and upholstery
- Upholstery Tool: Extra gentle for fabrics
- Extension wand and onboard hose storage
With the extensive tool set accounted for, most cleaning scenarios—from car interiors to deeply embedded carpet debris—are covered.
Comparing Kenmore DU1040 to Rival Upright Vacuums
| Feature | Kenmore DU1040 | BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet (est.) | Eureka PowerSpeed Pet Turbo (est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 12 lbs | 13.5 lbs | 10 lbs |
| Height Adjustments | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| Pet Attachments | Pet HandiMate® | TurboBrush Tool | Pet Turbo Tool |
| Bagless | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Noise Level | 72 dB | 74 dB (est.) | 70 dB (est.) |
| Hose Length | 7 feet | 6 feet (est.) | 7 feet |
| User Star Rating | 4.1 | 4.4 (est.) | 4.2 (est.) |
| Warranty | 1 year | 2 years (est.) | 1 year |
Compared to competitors in the pet vacuum market, the Kenmore DU1040 is lighter than the Bissell CleanView but slightly heavier than the Eureka PowerSpeed. All three models excel on multi-surface use and provide pet-focused attachments. The Kenmore excels in lightweight maneuverability, but the competition may offer higher user ratings or more height levels.
Ideal Users and Who Should Pass on This Model
- Great choice for: Pet owners, apartment dwellers, seniors, and anyone prioritizing easy carry and tool versatility
- May want to skip: Households needing a near-commercial build or cleaning wide, multi-room spaces daily
The Kenmore DU1040 is best for small-to-medium homes that juggle pets and mixed flooring. Large homes or those with frequent heavy cleaning may find it underbuilt for rigorous, long-term use.
Price Considerations and Value Analysis
The Kenmore DU1040 typically falls into the affordable, mid-range vacuum bracket. Historical price tracking (Keepa data not provided; est.) suggests it fluctuates modestly, with discount events driving the best value. Its MSRP usually sits slightly under leading competitors, and savvy shoppers should look for buy-under prices below the median to maximize savings.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Kenmore DU1040
Does this vacuum work well on both carpets and hard floors?
Yes, the four-level height adjustment allows efficient cleaning on low-pile carpets, thick rugs, and hard flooring alike.
Can it handle lots of pet hair?
Absolutely. The powerful suction and dedicated Pet HandiMate® tool are engineered for reliable pet hair pickup from carpets, upholstery, and stairs.
How easy is it to empty and maintain?
The bagless canister is quick-release and considered easy to empty. The foam filter requires occasional rinsing for optimal performance.
Is it noisy compared to other vacuums?
At 72 dB, the noise output is typical for upright vacuums—not whisper quiet, but not harshly loud.
What is the warranty and customer support like?
A one-year warranty is provided by Kenmore, which covers typical defects and early malfunctions.
Summary: Strong Pet Cleaning, Unbeatable Agility
The Kenmore DU1040 Upright Vacuum delivers on its promise of strong, adjustable suction and a lightweight design. Pet owners will especially benefit from the dedicated Pet HandiMate® tool, while the versatile attachments add value for apartment dwellers and small households. Those needing ultra-durable, heavy-duty performance for large homes might explore more robust uprights, but for everyday vacuuming, this model is a practical, efficient solution. It remains a standout for affordable, versatile pet hair cleaning and ease of use.