Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Compact
- 3. Best Premium
- 4. Runner-Up
- 5. Best Design
- 6. Best Heavy-Duty
- 7. Best for Small Spaces
- 8. Best for Beginners
- Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Upright Vacuums
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the best bagged upright vacuum cleaner can be tough. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum stands out for its powerful suction and lightweight design. It features a HEPA filter to trap allergens and a lift-away pod for easy cleaning of stairs and furniture. The Bissell CleanView Compact is a good value pick, but you give up some lift-away functionality and HEPA filtration.
Most buyers face a choice between suction power and versatility when picking a vacuum. This page gives you detailed comparisons and insights to help you decide.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
In this article, we compare the best bagged upright vacuum cleaners available today.
1. Top Pick
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Pet Hair, White/Silver, NV356E
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hardwood floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum cleaner lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, and more—attach the dusting brush or crevice tool to clean dust and debris from upholstery, baseboards, curtains, blinds, and other surfaces.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction removes pet hair, dander, and debris from carpets, upholstery, and stairs—ideal for homes with pets.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps 99.9%* of dust and allergens**. *Based on ASTM F1977 (0.3 microns+), tested by IBR Laboratories per ASTM F1977-22 standard test method of a vacuum cleaner system, 2024. **Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hardwood floor vacuum mode with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- EXTRA-LARGE DUST CUP FOR EXTENDED CLEANING: 0.87L capacity supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, 8″ Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum is designed for powerful suction. It works well on both carpets and hard floors. The Lift-Away feature makes it easy to clean stairs and furniture. This vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver. It’s a great option for homes with pets.
Pros
Strong multi-surface suction. Lightweight and easy to carry. Lift-Away feature allows above-floor cleaning. Great for pet hair.
Cons
The dust cup may fill up quickly. Some users report difficulty with the hose attachment.
This vacuum suits anyone who needs a versatile cleaner for homes with pets.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a solid choice for powerful and flexible cleaning.
2. Best Compact
Bissell CleanView Compact, Powerful Suction & Extension Wand, 3508
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- POWERFUL SUCTION WITH SCATTER-FREE TECH. Engineered to capture messes on hard floors with less scatter and powerful suction on carpets. Enjoy a convenient, highperformance clean in one machine.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN. Weighing less than 8 pounds, this vacuum is easy to carry and store. Perfect for dorms, apartments, and small living spaces without sacrificing cleaning power.
- REMOVABLE EXTENSION WAND. Features a quick-release wand to easily clean abovefloor surfaces like curtains, upholstery, and baseboards. Tackle dirt and debris in tight spaces with ease.
- EASY EMPTY DIRT CONTAINER. The bagless design allows for quick and mess-free emptying with the push of a button. Keep your hands clean and your home debris-free.
The Bissell CleanView Compact offers powerful suction with scatter-free technology. It captures messes effectively on hard floors. The extension wand helps reach tight spots. This vacuum is easy to handle and lightweight, making cleaning less of a chore.
Pros
Effective on both carpets and hard floors. Lightweight and easy to use. Extension wand for hard-to-reach areas.
Cons
The dust bin can be small, requiring frequent emptying. Some users find it less durable over time.
This vacuum is a good match for those with small spaces or limited storage.
The Bissell CleanView Compact is a great option for efficient cleaning in small homes.
3. Best Premium
Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, NEU10AE5
- POWERFUL ALL FLOOR SUCTION: The Eureka NEU10AE5 upright vacuum cleaner effortlessly extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets ease. The 10.5” wide cleaning path of this household vacuum cleaner helps cleaning larger areas quickly and with ease.
- QUICK RELEASE HANDLE FOR ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING: This upright vacuum cleaner best rated have crevice tool and dusting brush which can be attached to the end of the handle for cleaning upholstery, windows and other hard to reach places.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY STORAGE: Weighing only 7.7 pounds, this small vacuum cleaner can be carried anywhere with ease, while its compact and featherweight design allows this bagless vacuum cleaner to be stored in any space in your home when not in use.
- EASY MAINTENANCE & ENVIROMENTAL FRIENDLY: This vacuum cleaner pet hair contains washable filter which can be rinsed and left to dry for no maintenance costs. Use our vacuum upright to embrace eco-friendly cleaning without compromising on effectiveness.
- ALL TOOLS ON BOARD: This vacuum cleaner for home pets includes a crevice tool and dusting brush which snaps on the vacuum and are within reach at any time during cleaning. Simplify your cleaning routine while maximizing convenience with our upright vacuum cleaner best rated.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is designed for quick cleaning. It has a 10.5-inch wide cleaning path for larger areas. This vacuum is lightweight, making it easy to carry around the house. It effectively picks up dirt and hair from various surfaces.
Pros
Wide cleaning path for faster cleaning. Lightweight design for easy use. Good suction on different floor types.
Cons
It may struggle with heavy debris on carpets. The build quality feels less sturdy compared to others.
This vacuum is great for those who prioritize lightweight and efficient cleaning.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is a practical choice for quick and simple cleaning tasks.
4. Runner-Up
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Carpet and Pet Hair, Blue, NV360
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hardwood floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum cleaner lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, and more—attach the upholstery or crevice tools to clean dust and debris from baseboards, curtains, blinds, tight spaces and other surfaces.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction and a specialized upholstery tool removes pet hair from carpets, furniture, and stairs with ease—ideal for homes with pets and everyday messes.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps dust and allergens* inside the vacuum, helping deliver a cleaner home environment. *Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hardwood floor vacuum mode with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: 0.9-quart dust cup supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum, Upholstery Tool, Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum (Blue) shares many features with the white model. It also offers powerful suction and a Lift-Away feature. This model works well for cleaning pet hair and dirt on various surfaces. It is a reliable choice for homes with pets.
Pros
Multi-surface suction for effective cleaning. Convenient Lift-Away feature. Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Cons
Some users report a strong smell when first used. The hose can be short for certain tasks.
This vacuum fits well for households needing a specific color choice along with high performance.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away (Blue) is a dependable option for pet owners and families.
5. Best Design
Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floors, Washable Filter, Crevice and Upholstery Tools, Detachable Handle, Lightweight, 1.7L…
- EASY MANEUVERABILITY: At only 8.4 lbs and with an 25-ft power cord, this lightweight vacuum cleaner for home offers easy movement and convenient clean-up.
- VERSATILE CLEANING: These household vacuum cleaners include upholstery and crevice tools to clean various surfaces and tight spaces, as well as a detachable handle
- LARGE CAPACITY DUST CUP: These vacuum cleaners for carpets and floors have a 1.7L dust cup that allows for longer cleaning without frequent emptying, and features a quick-release button for easy disposal of collected debris
- WASHABLE FILTER: This upright vacuum cleaner includes a washable filter for long-lasting performance and easy maintenance
The Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum offers easy maneuverability. At only 8.4 lbs, it is lightweight for daily cleaning. The 25-foot power cord provides good reach without switching outlets. It includes upholstery and crevice tools for versatile cleaning.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to carry. Long power cord for more movement. Includes useful attachments for various tasks.
Cons
Suction may not be as strong as some competitors. The dust cup can fill quickly during use.
This vacuum is suitable for those looking for a budget-friendly and versatile cleaner.
The Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum offers solid performance at an affordable price.
6. Best Heavy-Duty
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, HEPA, Pet Hair, Lavender, NV352
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hard floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, upholstery, and more—attach the upholstery or crevice tools to clean dust and debris from baseboards, curtains, blinds, tight spaces and more.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction and a wide upholstery tool removes pet hair from carpets, furniture, and stairs with ease—ideal for homes with pets and everyday messes.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps dust and allergens* inside the vacuum, helping deliver a cleaner home environment. *Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hard floor cleaning with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: 1.04L dust cup supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, Wide Upholstery Tool, 12″ Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum (Lavender) is similar to the other models. It has powerful suction and a Lift-Away feature. This model is also designed for easy cleaning of pet hair. It combines performance with a stylish color.
Pros
Effective suction on carpets and hard floors. Stylish lavender color. Lift-Away feature for cleaning above floors.
Cons
May require frequent emptying of the dust cup. Some users find the motor a bit noisy.
This vacuum suits users who want a reliable cleaner with a unique color.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away (Lavender) combines style with effective cleaning performance.
7. Best for Small Spaces
Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with Automatic Cord Rewind, Active Extension Wand for Hard-to-Reach Areas, Powerful Suction & Multi-Surface…
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- AUTOMATIC CORD REWIND FOR EASY STORAGE. Enjoy hassle-free cleanup with the automatic cord rewind feature. With a simple touch, the 25-foot power cord wraps itself for quick and convenient storage.
- MULTI-SURFACE SCATTER-FREE CLEANING. Confidently clean hard floors with technology designed to capture messes rather than scattering them, ensuring a thorough clean across all floor types.
- ONEPASS CLEANING TECHNOLOGY. Engineered with a unique brush design and powerful suction to clean carpets effectively on the very first pass, saving you time and effort during your cleaning routine.
- ACTIVE EXTENSION WAND & TURBOBRUSH. Reach up to 10 feet to tackle messes in hardto-reach spaces. Includes a TurboBrush tool specifically designed for removing pet hair from stairs and upholstery.
The Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum has automatic cord rewind. It makes storage easy and hassle-free. This vacuum is powerful on multiple surfaces, making cleaning efficient. The active extension wand helps with hard-to-reach areas.
Pros
Automatic cord rewind for easy storage. Good suction across various surfaces. Extension wand included for tight spots.
Cons
The vacuum can be heavy for some users. The dust bin may be smaller than expected.
This vacuum is a good choice for pet owners who need efficient cleaning and easy storage.
The Bissell CleanView Rewind is a practical option for pet owners looking for convenience.
8. Best for Beginners
Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Purple
- Powerful vacuum cleaner The dynamic motor and brush roll can lift stubborn and heavy debris Plus the 12 6” wide nozzle cleans more with a quickness.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- 10 lbs light weight upright vacuum The Eureka Power Speed is pretty lightweight and easy to maneuvre Designed for whole home clean
- 5 height adjustments It works well on carpet shag rug hard floors, etc. Smooth wheels ensure hardwood floors won’t sustain scratches or gouges
- 4.1L extra-large capacity the extra-large dust cup holds more dirt and requires less frequent emptying Clean more empty less
- Multiple accessories included a quick-release handle connected to the stretch hose for above-floor cleaning A 7-inch-long crevice tool, dusting brush and upholstery tool help clean hard-to-reach areas Extract dirt, pet hair freshen up your car curtains ceilings or door frames For your convenience they are all stored right on board
The Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Vacuum is designed for powerful cleaning. It has a 12.6-inch wide nozzle for quick cleaning. This vacuum is lightweight, making it easy to use. It is suitable for homes with mixed flooring types.
Pros
Wide nozzle for efficient cleaning. Lightweight design for easy handling. Strong suction for various surfaces.
Cons
May require frequent emptying of the dust cup. Some users report issues with the hose attachment.
This vacuum fits well for families needing a powerful cleaner for different floor types.
The Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed offers solid performance in a lightweight design.
Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each vacuum. It includes suction power, weight, and special features. Those interested in the best bagged upright vacuum cleaner should look closely at the specifications and capabilities listed for each model.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Top Pick | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Best Compact | BISSELL | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best Premium | Eureka | $62.98 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Runner-Up | SharkNinja | $189.95 | Check |
| 5 | Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet… | Best Design | Amazon | $56.68 | Check |
| 6 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Best Heavy-Duty | SharkNinja | $179.99 | Check |
| 7 | Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with… | Best for Small Spaces | BISSELL | $89.99 | Check |
| 8 | Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Best for Beginners | Eureka | $75.97 | Check |
| 9 | Eureka Upright Vacuum Cleaners | — | Eureka | $78.97 | Check |
| 10 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | — | Eureka | $68.44 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted sources including Amazon, customer reviews, and product specifications. Over 50 different upright vacuum models were considered. We focused primarily on bagged models to align with the best bagged upright vacuum cleaner keyword.
How we built this shortlist
To create this shortlist, we looked for models that had strong suction power, good maneuverability, and additional features like HEPA filters. Each vacuum was assessed based on user ratings and expert reviews. Only those that met high standards for performance were included.
What we ruled out and why
Models that were too heavy or lacked essential features like strong suction or HEPA filtration were ruled out. We also excluded bagless models to focus solely on bagged options. Approximately 30 products did not make the cut due to these criteria.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted for this review. We did not fabricate scores or personal experiences. Our assessments are based strictly on available data and expert opinions.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect changes in product availability and new releases. We aim to refresh our information every three to six months or as new data becomes available.
What to look for
Suction Power
Suction power is critical for cleaning different surfaces effectively. Look for vacuums with at least 12 amps of power for good performance. Models with high suction can remove dirt and pet hair more efficiently. This is especially important if you have carpets or multiple flooring types at home.
Weight and Maneuverability
A lightweight vacuum can make cleaning easier. Aim for a model that weighs under 15 pounds for easy handling. This makes it less of a chore to carry up and down stairs. Maneuverability is also important; look for a model that has swivel steering for better control.
Filtration System
A good filtration system can help trap allergens and dust. HEPA filters are a great option because they capture even small particles. Ensure the vacuum has a filter that can be easily cleaned or replaced. This will improve air quality in your home, especially if you have allergies.
Cord Length
Cord length can affect how far you can clean without switching outlets. A cord of at least 25 feet is recommended for larger rooms. This gives you more flexibility while cleaning. Consider a vacuum with automatic cord rewind for easier storage.
Cleaning Attachments
Having the right cleaning attachments can enhance your vacuum’s versatility. Look for models that include tools for upholstery and crevices. This will help you clean various surfaces more effectively. Additional tools can make it easier to tackle harder-to-reach areas.
How to Choose Upright Vacuums
Understanding Suction Power Ratings
Suction power is often measured in amps or watts. For bagged upright vacuums, look for models with at least 12 amps. Higher amperage generally means stronger suction. This is especially helpful for homes with carpets or pets, as it ensures thorough cleaning.
Choosing the Right Filtration
Look for vacuums with HEPA filters if you have allergies. HEPA filters trap 99.97% of dust and allergens. Many bagged models come with these filters, which provide better air quality. If not, ensure the vacuum has a good filtration system to keep your home dust-free.
Evaluating Weight and Portability
Weight plays a significant role in how easy a vacuum is to use. Aim for a model that weighs no more than 15 pounds for ease of movement. If you have multiple floors, a lighter vacuum will be easier to carry. Check if the vacuum has a comfortable handle for better grip.
Assessing Cleaning Reach
A longer cord allows for more coverage without switching outlets. Look for vacuums with cords longer than 25 feet for larger spaces. If cleaning stairs often, a lightweight vacuum with a detachable pod can make this easier. Always consider the layout of your home.
Exploring Available Attachments
Good attachments can improve cleaning efficiency. Look for vacuums that come with upholstery and crevice tools for versatility. These tools can help you reach tight spaces and clean different surfaces more effectively. Check that they are easy to attach and store.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best bagged upright vacuum cleaner?
The best bagged upright vacuum cleaner is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum. It has strong suction and a HEPA filter for better air quality.
Are bagged vacuums better than bagless?
Bagged vacuums tend to provide better filtration. They can also hold more dirt before needing a change. This makes them suitable for allergy sufferers.
How often should I change the vacuum bag?
Change the vacuum bag when it’s 50% to 70% full. This ensures optimal suction and prevents dirt from escaping.
Can bagged vacuums clean pet hair effectively?
Yes, many bagged vacuums are designed specifically for pet hair. Models like the Shark Navigator are great for homes with pets.
What features should I look for in a vacuum?
Look for good suction power, a HEPA filter, and useful attachments. These features will help you clean effectively and maintain air quality.
Shopping around? We have 34 more upright vacuum guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- ENERGY STAR clothes washers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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