Quick Verdict: Reliable, Lightweight Upright for Homes with Pets and Mixed Floors
The Kenmore DU1275 Bagless Upright Vacuum (model DU1275) blends strong suction and functional design in a lightweight package, appealing to those seeking versatile cleaning for carpets and hard floors. With an average user rating of 4.2 stars from over 3,500 reviews and priced in the mid-tier range, this model delivers on the essentials. Its standout feature is a self-cleaning brushroll that targets hair and string—a boon for pet owners—plus on-board tools for whole-home cleaning.
Essential Details and Specifications
| Specification | Kenmore DU1275 |
|---|---|
| Weight | 11 lbs |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 3 Liters |
| Height Adjustment | 4 Levels |
| Hose Reach | 6 feet (7 feet with tools) |
| Brushroll | Self-cleaning Hair Eliminator |
| Attachments | Pet HandiMate, Upholstery Tool, 3-in-1 Tool |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Product Dimensions | 11 x 10 x 34 inches |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Featuring a 3-liter dust bin, four-level height adjustment, and a unique hair-eliminating brushroll, the DU1275 offers a balanced set of features for typical American households.
User Feedback Snapshot: What Real Owners Think
- Effectiveness on Carpets and Hard Floors: The majority (est. 85%) say it works very well, especially on mid-pile carpet and wood.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: About 90% of users praise its portability and swivel steering.
- Self-Cleaning Brushroll: Noted by pet owners as a top benefit, minimizing long hair tangles.
- Build Quality Concerns: Roughly 20% found the plastic construction less robust, with occasional hose breakage reports.
Representative reviews include:
- “Suction is great on my thick carpet and it’s easy to push around.”
- “Works well for pet hair. I really like the self-cleaning brush feature.”
- “Plastic feels flimsy, and the hose broke after a few months.”
Comparing the DU1275 to Other Popular Uprights
| Feature | Kenmore DU1275 | Shark Navigator Swivel NV352 | Bissell Cleanview 2252 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 11 lbs | 12.5 lbs | 15 lbs |
| Capacity | 3L | 1.1L | 1L |
| Brushroll Self-Cleaning | Yes | No | No |
| Pet Tool | Yes | Yes (Pet Power Brush) | Yes (TurboBrush) |
| Swivel Steering | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Height Adjustment | 4 Levels | No | 5 Levels |
| Hose Length | 6 ft | 5 ft | 6 ft |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 5 Years | 3 Years |
The Kenmore DU1275’s larger dust cup and unique hair eliminator set it apart, though its warranty is shorter than major competitors. Its lighter build makes it attractive for users who want maneuverability and high capacity.
Deep Dive: Performance on Carpets, Rugs, and Bare Floors
This model offers strong suction for both carpets and hardwood, handling 3/8″ pile and bare surfaces without issue. The 4-level height adjustment makes it simple to transition between flooring types, avoiding the common problem of scattered debris on hard floors seen in some uprights.
The large canister means fewer trips to the trash, especially useful when cleaning pet-heavy homes or large rooms. Its powerful motor provides consistent airflow, even as the bin fills.
Pet Hair Solutions: The Hair Eliminator and Pet Tools
The DU1275 features a self-cleaning brushroll that automatically removes hair and string. For multi-pet households, this dramatically cuts down on maintenance time versus manually untangling brush bars every session.
Also included is Kenmore’s Pet HandiMate, a powered mini-brush attachment that efficiently lifts embedded hair from upholstery and stairs. Combined with the 3-in-1 tool, pet owners report that fur, dander, and tracked litter are less of a problem.
Maneuverability and Ease of Use: Lightweight Design in Action
At just 11 pounds, this upright is exceptionally easy to carry up and down stairs. Swivel steering allows for smooth navigation around corners, under tables, and between furniture legs, much appreciated by users with multi-level or cluttered homes.
Assembly is straightforward—most buyers mention that setup from box to use takes less than 10 minutes. No tools are required, and the included accessories attach and detach with a simple click.
Maintenance and Cleaning: Simplicity Matters
Emptying the canister is mess-free, thanks to an easy-open dust bin that drops debris with a single lever. Routine maintenance is also simplified: users only need to periodically wipe the vacuum and filter.
No special bags or frequent filter changes are needed, making the DU1275 a sensible option for those who prefer low ongoing costs.
Build Quality and Durability: Where Cost Savings Show
The DU1275 is constructed from lightweight plastic, enabling its portability but resulting in mixed opinions on durability. While many users find it sturdy enough for daily use, others criticize the flex in plastic parts and report occasional failures, particularly with the hose.
Kenmore covers the unit with a 1-year warranty, which is typical for the category but less generous than some rivals. For moderate, mindful use, build quality is unlikely to disappoint; for heavier or rougher use, a more robust vacuum may be advisable.
Included Accessories: Tools for Whole-Home Cleaning
- Pet HandiMate: Motorized mini-brush for deep-cleaning upholstery and stairs.
- Upholstery Tool: Tackles couches, mattresses, and drapes.
- 3-in-1 Combination Tool: Switches between crevice, dusting, and upholstery cleaning, all in one compact piece.
These on-board tools make the DU1275 a versatile vacuum for various household surfaces.
Who Will Appreciate the Kenmore DU1275 (and Who Might Pass)
- Pet owners needing regular hair removal from carpets, floors, and upholstery
- Shoppers seeking a lightweight upright with high capacity
- Those cleaning a mix of rugs, low- and mid-pile carpets, and hard surfaces
- Users wanting minimal brushroll maintenance and straightforward canister emptying
- Budget-conscious buyers who want good performance in the mid-price tier
It may not be ideal for:
- Users requiring premium build quality and thicker plastics
- Those who need a very long hose for above-floor reach
- Buyers preferring longer warranty coverage
Price, Value Assessment, and Buying Advice
The Kenmore DU1275 commonly sells at a mid-market price point, with an MSRP (est.) in line with comparable upright vacuums. Seasonal discounts or on-page deals sometimes place it well below its retail value, with Keepa price tracking suggesting frequent promotions. The ideal buy-under price (est.) is when it drops 15–20% below list.
For its features—especially hair removal and easy handling—it offers solid value. It’s a particularly smart purchase for pet owners or families wanting strong performance without splurging on high-end models.
Frequently Asked Questions: Kenmore DU1275
Q: Does it work on both carpets and hard floors?
A: Yes, the 4-level height adjustment and strong suction make it effective on low-, mid-pile carpets and hard flooring.
Q: Can it handle long human or pet hair without tangling?
A: The Hair Eliminator brushroll is specifically designed to remove hair wraps automatically, reducing maintenance significantly.
Q: Is assembly difficult?
A: Most users report that assembly is simple and tool-free, typically taking less than 10 minutes out of the box.
Q: Are the filters washable or replaceable?
A: The main filter can be wiped clean as needed, though periodic replacement is recommended for optimal performance.
Q: How does the warranty compare to other brands?
A: The DU1275 comes with a 1-year warranty, which is standard but shorter than the multi-year warranties some competitors offer.
Final Take: Is the Kenmore DU1275 the Right Upright for Your Home?
The Kenmore DU1275 Bagless Upright Vacuum excels at everyday cleaning and pet hair management thanks to its smart brushroll design, generous dust cup, and lightweight build. While its construction may not satisfy shoppers who demand robust, “lifetime” appliances, its value and functionality are hard to beat for apartments, family homes, and pet owners. If low maintenance, versatility, and easy handling top your cleaning checklist, the DU1275 deserves a close look.