Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for Beginners
- 3. Best Splurge
- 4. Best for Daily Use
- 5. Best Value
- 6. Best Premium
- 7. Most Versatile
- 8. Best Design
- 9. Best Heavy-Duty
- 10. Best Lightweight
- Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Upright Vacuums
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
The best upright vacuum choice can feel overwhelming. SharkNinja’s Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum is our top pick due to its powerful suction that effectively cleans both carpets and hard floors. For those who want to save money, consider the BISSELL CleanView Compact; however, you will lose some advanced features. Many buyers struggle between powerful suction and portability. This page will guide you through the options.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
Here are reviews for the best upright vacuum options available today. Each pick offers different features and benefits.
1. Best Overall
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 our top choice among upright vacuums. It combines powerful suction with its Lift-Away functionality, making it versatile for all floor types. The HEPA filter traps allergens, improving your home’s air quality. It also weighs only 13.7 pounds, making it easy to carry. Compared to other models, its ability to clean high surfaces makes it different. Most vacuums struggle with stairs and furniture, but this model excels. However, some users may find the dust cup capacity smaller than other options, requiring frequent emptying. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for effective home cleaning.
Pros
- Powerful suction for carpets and hard floors.
- HEPA filter traps allergens.
- Lift-Away functionality for above-floor cleaning.
Cons
- Smaller dust cup requires frequent emptying.
- Some users may find it bulky.
- A bit more expensive than basic models.
Best for: Pet owners and allergy sufferers. Not ideal for: Those who want a budget-friendly option.
This vacuum excels in performance and versatility.
2. Best for Beginners
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 is an excellent choice for beginners. It features powerful suction and Scatter-Free Technology, which minimizes mess when cleaning hard floors. This model is lighter than many upright vacuums, weighing just 10 pounds. Its design is compact, making it easy to store in tight spaces. Compared to other vacuums, it doesn’t have as many features or attachments, which keeps it simple to use. However, it might not perform as well on deep carpets as other models that offer higher suction. Overall, it’s a great starter vacuum that balances efficiency and ease.
Pros
- Lightweight at 10 pounds for easy maneuvering.
- Powerful suction designed for carpets and hard floors.
- Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation with every purchase.
Cons
- Fewer attachments compared to other models.
- Might struggle with deep carpet cleaning.
- Cord length may be shorter than desired.
Best for: First-time vacuum buyers. Not ideal for: Users who need advanced features and tools.
A great starter vacuum for simple cleaning tasks.
3. Best Splurge
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 vacuum is a strong choice for anyone wanting a lightweight design without sacrificing performance. This model weighs only 10 lbs and has a wide 10.5-inch cleaning path. It’s effective on both carpets and hard floors, making it versatile. Compared to others, its suction is powered by a dynamic motor that lifts stubborn debris. However, it lacks advanced filtration, which may be a downside for allergy sufferers. Overall, this vacuum is excellent for quick and efficient cleaning across different surfaces.
Pros
- Lightweight at just 10 lbs for easy handling.
- Wide cleaning path for faster cleaning.
- Dynamic motor lifts stubborn debris effectively.
Cons
- Lacks advanced filtration for allergens.
- May not be as durable as heavier models.
- Fewer tools for specialized cleaning.
Best for: Quick clean-ups across multiple surfaces. Not ideal for: Users with allergy concerns.
Great for efficient, quick cleaning around the home.
4. Best for Daily Use
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.
SharkNinja’s Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum is a solid option for daily use. Its Lift-Away feature allows you to detach the pod for cleaning stairs or furniture easily. This model maintains strong suction for both carpets and hard floors, making it versatile. It also features a HEPA filter for trapping allergens, offering additional benefits for allergy sufferers. However, it may be heavier than some users prefer for regular use. Overall, it’s an effective vacuum that provides consistent cleaning performance.
Pros
- Lift-Away feature for above-floor cleaning.
- Strong suction for multiple surfaces.
- HEPA filter for improved air quality.
Cons
- Heavier than some other options.
- Dust cup requires frequent emptying.
- Might be bulky for small spaces.
Best for: Regular cleaning tasks in various spaces. Not ideal for: Those needing a lightweight option.
Ideal for consistent daily cleaning performance.
5. Best Value
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
Amazon’s upright vacuum is a fantastic value option that doesn’t skimp on features. Weighing just 8.4 lbs, it is very easy to maneuver. It comes with a washable filter and includes both crevice and upholstery tools, enhancing its versatility. While it provides effective cleaning on carpets and hard floors, it might not have the same suction power as higher-end models. The trade-off for its low price is less powerful performance. However, it remains a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers looking for basic functionality.
Pros
- Very lightweight at 8.4 lbs for easy movement.
- Washable filter reduces maintenance costs.
- Includes tools for upholstery and tight spaces.
Cons
- Less powerful suction compared to premium models.
- Dust cup may fill quickly during use.
- Fewer advanced features and attachments.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers needing basic functionality. Not ideal for: Those requiring high performance.
A budget-friendly choice for simple cleaning tasks.
6. Best Premium
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 Upright Vacuum combines versatility with a lightweight design. Its detachable pod makes cleaning above floors easy, while it maintains excellent suction. It includes a HEPA filter for better air quality. Compared to other models, its dual functionality makes it stand out. However, some users may find the dust cup smaller, requiring more frequent emptying. Overall, this vacuum provides a solid option for those needing flexibility in cleaning.
Pros
- Detachable pod for easy above-floor cleaning.
- HEPA filter captures allergens effectively.
- Lightweight design at 13 lbs.
Cons
- Smaller dust cup requires frequent emptying.
- Not as powerful for deep cleaning tasks.
- May feel bulky for some users.
Best for: Versatile cleaning needs in various areas. Not ideal for: Those needing a high-capacity vacuum.
Versatile and perfect for different cleaning tasks.
7. Most Versatile
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 Vacuum is designed for pet owners. Its automatic cord rewind feature adds convenience, allowing for easy storage. With powerful suction and a pet hair attachment, it’s effective for cleaning up after furry friends. Compared to other models, it performs well on both carpets and hard floors. However, its weight may be a drawback for some users, as it can be heavy for extended cleaning sessions. Overall, it’s a practical choice for pet owners seeking efficiency.
Pros
- Automatic cord rewind for easy storage.
- Special pet hair attachment for effective cleaning.
- Powerful suction for multiple surfaces.
Cons
- Heavier than other options.
- Dust cup may fill quickly with pet hair.
- Lack of advanced filtration features.
Best for: Pet owners needing efficient cleaning. Not ideal for: Users who prefer a lightweight option.
A practical choice for busy pet owners.
8. Best Design
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 vacuum stands out for its colorful design and functionality. It features a dynamic motor that effectively lifts dirt while remaining lightweight. Its 12.6-inch nozzle provides a wide cleaning path, making it efficient for larger areas. However, it may lack some advanced features found in pricier models. While it’s great for general cleaning, it might not handle heavy debris as well. Still, it offers good performance for daily cleaning tasks.
Pros
- Dynamic motor for effective dirt lifting.
- Wide nozzle for faster cleaning.
- Lightweight design at only 10 lbs.
Cons
- Lacks advanced features for specialized cleaning.
- May struggle with heavy debris.
- Durability concerns with frequent use.
Best for: Casual cleaning tasks with efficient design. Not ideal for: Users needing heavy-duty performance.
A colorful and efficient vacuum for everyday use.
9. Best Heavy-Duty
Eureka Upright Vacuum Cleaners, PowerSpeed Lightweight, NEU280
- Upgraded Cyclone System: The Eureka PowerSpeed is now upgraded with new cyclone technology to handle larger debris, smaller dirt, and even microscopic dust.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- Powerful pick-up: Penetrates deep into the carpet to extract embedded dirt, dust, and debris.
- Lightweight: PowerSpeed does all the work while still remaining lightweight.
- 5 Height Settings: The PowerSpeed works well on carpets, shag rugs, and hard floors. Its wheels run smoothly on hardwood floors to prevent scratches or gouges.
- Multiple accessories included: A quick-release handle is 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, and pet hair, and freshen up your car, curtains, ceilings, or door frames. For your convenience, they are all stored right on board.
- Warning: When you use the vacuum cleaner, the floor brush may be clogged by hairs and dirts. We recommend cleaning the roller brush and the belt to remove the hairs and dirts every 2 weeks. If the roller and belt not cleaned for a long time, it may cause malfunction, and in some serious cases, there may be the risk of smoke and belt broken.
- Traps 99.9% of dust, dander and allergens
The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight vacuum is designed for those who need strong performance without additional weight. Its upgraded cyclone system helps capture larger debris while remaining easy to maneuver. The 10 lbs weight is great for comfortable use. However, it might not be the best choice for deep carpet cleaning. Compared to others, it focuses on versatility and ease of use. For quick clean-ups, it’s an excellent option, but heavy-duty cleaning may be a challenge.
Pros
- Upgraded cyclone system for better debris capture.
- Lightweight design makes it easy to handle.
- Powerful pick-up for various surfaces.
Cons
- Not ideal for deep carpet cleaning.
- Limited advanced features.
- May fill the dust cup quickly.
Best for: Quick and easy cleaning tasks. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty cleaning needs.
Lightweight and versatile for everyday cleaning.
10. Best Lightweight
Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, NEU10AE4
- Quick release handle for effortless above floor cleaning. Attach the crevice tool or dusting brush to the end of the handle for cleaning upholstery, windows and other hard to reach places.700.0 watts.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- Powerful all floor suction extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets ease. It’s 10.5” wide cleaning path gets the job done quickly
- Lightweight at only 7.7 pounds with its compact and featherweight design this vacuum can store in any space in your home and be carried anywhere
- Contains one washable filter which can be rinsed and left to dry for no maintenance costs
- Includes a crevice tool and dusting brush which snaps on the vacuum and are within reach at any time during cleaning
The Eureka Vacuum Cleaners Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is designed for those who want a lightweight option without sacrificing cleaning power. This vacuum has a quick-release handle for above-floor cleaning. Its powerful suction helps to remove dirt and hair effectively. However, it may not perform as well on thicker carpets compared to others. Its lightweight design makes it easy to store and maneuver. Overall, it is a solid choice for basic cleaning needs around the house.
Pros
- Quick-release handle for easy above-floor cleaning.
- Lightweight design for easy portability.
- Powerful suction for multiple surfaces.
Cons
- Less effective on thick carpets.
- Limited attachments for specialized cleaning.
- May not be as durable as heavier models.
Best for: Users needing a lightweight vacuum for easy cleaning. Not ideal for: Those wanting heavy-duty performance.
Lightweight and effective for basic cleaning tasks.
Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
This table compares the best upright vacuum options. The columns show key specs like weight, suction power, and special features. Look for the one that meets your needs best.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Best Overall | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Best for Beginners | BISSELL | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best Splurge | Eureka | $62.98 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Best for Daily Use | SharkNinja | $189.95 | Check |
| 5 | Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet… | Best Value | Amazon | $56.68 | Check |
| 6 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Best Premium | SharkNinja | $179.99 | Check |
| 7 | Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with… | Most Versatile | BISSELL | $89.99 | Check |
| 8 | Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Best Design | Eureka | $75.97 | Check |
| 9 | Eureka Upright Vacuum Cleaners | Best Heavy-Duty | Eureka | $78.97 | Check |
| 10 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best Lightweight | Eureka | $68.44 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Upright Vacuums
Suction Power
Suction power is key when selecting an upright vacuum. Look for models with at least 250-300 air watts for effective cleaning. This ensures that the vacuum can lift dirt, debris, and pet hair from carpets and hard floors. Higher suction power often leads to better overall performance.
Weight
Consider the weight of the vacuum, especially if you plan to carry it upstairs. Aim for a vacuum that weighs no more than 15 pounds. Lightweight options are easier to maneuver and store. Heavier models might offer more power but can be cumbersome.
Filtration System
Choose a vacuum with a HEPA filter if you have allergies. HEPA filters trap 99.97% of dust and allergens. This is important for keeping the air clean. A good filtration system improves air quality in your home.
Cord Length
A long power cord allows you to clean larger areas without changing outlets. Look for a cord that is at least 25 feet long. This provides flexibility and reduces interruptions while cleaning.
Accessories and Tools
Check for useful attachments like crevice tools and upholstery brushes. These tools help you clean various surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. A vacuum with several accessories can make cleaning more efficient.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from various online sources, including customer reviews and manufacturer specifications. This helped us create a complete overview of each vacuum’s features and performance. We looked at over 30 different upright vacuums during this process.
How we built this shortlist
To create our shortlist, we considered the most popular models and those with high ratings. We focused on suction power, weight, and filtration systems. Each vacuum was compared based on these essential features to ensure a fair comparison.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded vacuums without strong suction or those lacking essential features like HEPA filters. Models that received consistently poor customer feedback were also ruled out. This narrowed our list to the best performers.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were conducted for this review. We did not create any scores or ratings. All data comes from reliable sources and customer feedback.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new models and changing consumer preferences. We aim to refresh the content every six months or as new information becomes available. This ensures accuracy and relevance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best upright vacuum for pet hair?
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum is great for pet hair. It has powerful suction and a special pet hair attachment.
How often should I vacuum my carpets?
Vacuuming carpets at least once a week is recommended. If you have pets, you might need to vacuum more often.
Are bagless vacuums better than bagged?
Bagless vacuums are easier to empty and don’t require buying bags. However, bagged vacuums often have better filtration.
How important is the weight of an upright vacuum?
The weight is important, especially if you need to carry the vacuum upstairs. Look for lightweight models under 15 pounds.
Can I use an upright vacuum on hardwood floors?
Yes, many upright vacuums work well on hardwood floors. Look for models with a setting for hard floors to avoid scratches.
What to look for
Suction Power
Suction power is important for cleaning efficiency. A vacuum should ideally have 250-300 air watts for effective cleaning. This ensures that the vacuum can pick up both large debris and fine dust. A model with higher suction often performs better on both carpets and hard floors.
Weight and Maneuverability
Consider the weight of the vacuum, especially if you need to lift it frequently. Aim for a model that weighs no more than 15 pounds. Heavier vacuums can be difficult to maneuver and may cause fatigue during cleaning. Lightweight models are easier to handle and store.
Filtration Systems
A good filtration system is important for maintaining air quality. HEPA filters are recommended for allergy sufferers, as they capture 99.97% of particles. Check if the vacuum is designed for easy filter replacement. This keeps the vacuum working efficiently over time.
Cord Length
A long power cord allows for greater reach and reduces the need to switch outlets. Look for a cord that is at least 25 feet long. This feature makes cleaning larger areas more convenient. A shorter cord may limit your cleaning range.
Attachments and Accessories
Look for vacuums with useful attachments for different cleaning tasks. Tools like crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and dusting attachments enhance versatility. These accessories help clean various surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. A vacuum with multiple tools can make cleaning more efficient.
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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