Best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors

As someone who’s constantly battling dirt, dust, and pet hair across various floor types in my own home, I know the struggle is real. One minute you’re gliding effortlessly over gleaming hardwood, the next you’re wrestling with embedded grime in plush carpet, and your current vacuum just isn’t cutting it on both. Finding the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors isn’t just about suction power; it’s about versatility, ease of use, and intelligent design that adapts to your home’s unique surfaces. I’ve put in the hours, tested the features, and compared the performance to bring you a comprehensive guide to vacuums that truly excel on both ends of the flooring spectrum. Whether you have delicate hardwoods or deep-pile carpets, stick with me as we dive into some top contenders that promise to make your cleaning routine much, much smoother.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…	View on Amazon
	Intercleaner Corded Vacuum Cleaner, 15KPa Powerful Suction…	View on Amazon
	Cordless Vacuum Cleaner,48000Pa/580W/65Mins Vacuum Cleaners…	View on Amazon
	VENHIDELY Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 50KPA/70Mins Vacuum…	View on Amazon
	Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…	View on Amazon

Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

This Eureka model immediately impressed me with its robust cleaning capabilities without being a beast to push around. Its upgraded cyclone system is a game-changer, tackling everything from large crumbs to microscopic dust, which is crucial when you’re transitioning from kitchen tiles to a living room rug. I particularly appreciate how it penetrates deep into carpets to extract embedded dirt, a common challenge for dual-surface vacuums. Yet, it glides smoothly on hardwood, thanks to wheels designed to prevent scratches or gouges. With its five height settings, you can effortlessly switch from low-pile rugs to high-pile carpets and then to bare floors. Plus, the onboard tools make tackling cobwebs or upholstery a breeze.

Key features that stand out:
– Upgraded Cyclone System: Effectively separates larger debris, fine dirt, and microscopic dust.
– Powerful Pick-up: Designed to extract deeply embedded dirt from carpet fibers.
– Lightweight Design: Easy to maneuver around the house and up stairs.
– 5 Height Settings: Provides optimal cleaning for various floor types, from bare floors to thick carpets.
– Multiple Accessories Included: Comes with a crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool for versatile cleaning.

Pros:
– Excellent suction power for both carpets and hard floors.
– Lightweight and easy to carry.
– Versatile with multiple height settings.
– Convenient onboard tool storage.
– Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens.

Cons:
– Requires regular cleaning of the roller brush and belt to prevent malfunction.

Best for: Homes with a mix of carpet and hardwood floors needing deep cleaning and allergen trapping on a budget.

Expert Opinion: This vacuum is a solid workhorse for general household cleaning. Its ability to adapt to different floor types with strong suction and good filtration makes it a reliable choice, especially considering its price point. Just remember to keep up with the roller brush maintenance!

Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

When it comes to the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors that won’t break your back, the Eureka PowerSpeed really shines. At just 10 pounds, it’s remarkably easy to maneuver, making stair cleaning less of a workout. But don’t let its light weight fool you; the 960-watt motor provides consistent, strong suction across all surfaces, from the glossiest hardwood to thick area rugs. I love the extra-large 2.6-liter dust cup, which means fewer trips to the trash can during bigger cleaning sessions. Adjusting the brush roll height is quick and intuitive, ensuring you get optimal cleaning whether you’re on a delicate rug or stubborn carpet. And for pet owners, the Pet Turbo Brush is a lifesaver.

Key features that stand out:
– Lightweight Yet Powerful: Delivers heavyweight performance at only 10 pounds.
– Strong Suction Across Surfaces: 960-watt motor ensures consistent suction on all floor types.
– Extra-Large Dust Cup: 2.6-liter capacity for extended cleaning without frequent emptying.
– 5-Height Brush Roll Adjustment: Allows for precise cleaning on different carpet piles and bare floors.
– Pet-Ready Attachments Onboard: Includes a Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, and dusting brush for comprehensive cleaning.

Pros:
– Exceptionally lightweight and easy to carry.
– Great suction for both carpet and hard floors.
– Huge dust cup reduces emptying frequency.
– Excellent for pet hair with specialized attachment.
– Convenient onboard tool storage.

Cons:
– Corded design limits reach without changing outlets.

Best for: Pet owners and those seeking a powerful, lightweight upright vacuum for homes with varied flooring, including pet hair challenges.

Expert Opinion: The PowerSpeed is an excellent value upright that proves you don’t need a heavy machine for serious cleaning. Its specialized pet tool and large dust cup make it particularly appealing for pet owners, delivering solid performance on both carpets and hardwoods.

Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…

This Eureka NEU10AE5 is another fantastic contender in the upright vacuum category, particularly for its sheer ease of use and maintenance. What really stands out is its powerful all-floor suction, effortlessly pulling dirt and hair from both hard floors and carpets. Its 10.5-inch cleaning path helps you cover larger areas quickly, which is a blessing in bigger homes. At a mere 7.7 pounds, it’s one of the lightest uprights I’ve used, making it incredibly easy to carry anywhere. The quick-release handle for above-floor cleaning is super handy for reaching curtains or ceiling corners, and all its tools are conveniently stored onboard. Plus, the washable filter is a great eco-friendly and cost-saving feature.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful All Floor Suction: Effectively cleans dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets.
– Quick Release Handle: For easy attachment of tools for above-floor cleaning.
– Lightweight & Easy Storage: Weighs only 7.7 pounds, making it portable and simple to store.
– Easy Maintenance: Features a washable filter for no recurring costs.
– All Tools On Board: Crevice tool and dusting brush are always within reach.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and maneuverable.
– Strong suction on multiple floor types.
– Washable filter saves money and is eco-friendly.
– Compact design for easy storage.
– Quick-release handle for versatile above-floor cleaning.

Cons:
– Lacks specialized features like a pet turbo brush for very stubborn pet hair.

Best for: Individuals or smaller households looking for an ultra-lightweight, easy-to-maintain upright vacuum that performs well on both carpets and hard floors.

Expert Opinion: For sheer portability and straightforward performance on mixed floor types, the NEU10AE5 is a winner. Its lightweight design and easy-to-clean filter make it a practical choice for everyday vacuuming without fuss.

Intercleaner Corded Vacuum Cleaner, 15KPa Powerful Suction…

The Intercleaner Corded Vacuum is a surprisingly versatile stick vacuum that quickly becomes a handheld unit. What I loved about this vacuum is its 12-in-1 multifunctionality, offering a wide array of accessories to tackle virtually any cleaning task, from hard floors and carpets to stairs and upholstery. The 15KPa powerful suction from its brushless motor quickly cleans various floor types, including short-haired carpets. Its 16.4ft extra-long cord is a fantastic feature, giving you a broad cleaning range without constantly searching for new outlets – a significant advantage over standard corded stick vacuums. It’s also incredibly lightweight and portable, weighing only 3lbs (without the wire), making it easy for anyone to use. The Pro-Max Filtration System and extra HEPA filters ensure cleaner air, which is always a bonus.

Key features that stand out:
– 12-in-1 Multifunction: Comes with 11 accessories for diverse cleaning needs.
– Powerful Suction: 15KPa suction from a brushless motor for efficient cleaning.
– 16.4ft Extra Long Cord: Provides extended cleaning range and avoids frequent plug changes.
– Lightweight and Portable: Only 3 lbs (without wire), easy for everyone to handle.
– Handheld Vacuum Mode: Quickly converts for cleaning sofas, cars, and tight spaces.
– Pro-Max Filtration System: 3-layer filtration with washable HEPA filters, preventing secondary air pollution.

Pros:
– Highly versatile with numerous attachments.
– Strong suction for a stick vacuum.
– Excellent reach with the extra-long cord.
– Very lightweight and easy to convert to handheld.
– Effective filtration system for cleaner air.
– Large capacity dust cup.

Cons:
– Corded nature means it’s not as nimble as cordless options.

Best for: Those who need a highly versatile, lightweight corded stick vacuum with strong suction for various surfaces and detailed cleaning, including pet hair, without worrying about battery life.

Expert Opinion: This Intercleaner model offers exceptional value and versatility. Its powerful suction combined with the extensive accessory kit and long cord makes it an ideal solution for comprehensive home cleaning, particularly for those who prioritize consistent power over cordless freedom.

Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 48000Pa/580W/65Mins Vacuum Cleaners…

This Cordless Vacuum Cleaner from MOHOMO feels like a leap into the future of home cleaning. Boasting an astounding 48,000 Pa of suction power from a 580W brushless motor, it effortlessly picks up everything from crumbs to embedded pet hair on both hard floors and carpets, all while being surprisingly quiet (less than 58 dB). The Max 65-min battery life is fantastic for whole-house cleaning, and the self-standing design is incredibly convenient for storage and quick breaks. What truly impressed me was the LED Smart Touch Screen, allowing me to easily switch modes and monitor battery and cleaning status in real-time. The flexible V-shaped anti-tangle brush head with LED lights is brilliant for navigating dark corners and minimizing hair wraps.

Key features that stand out:
– 580W & 48000Pa Super Suction Power: Delivers powerful cleaning for all debris and pet hair.
– Max 65-min Battery Life & Self-standing Design: Long runtime and convenient storage/recharging.
– LED Smart Touch Screen: Intuitive display for mode switching, status monitoring, and maintenance alerts.
– Flexible V-Shaped Anti-Tangle Brush: Combats hair entanglement and transitions easily between floor types with LED light.
– 99.99% High Efficiency Filtration and 1.8 Liter Dust Box: Advanced filtration and large capacity for less frequent emptying.

Pros:
– Extremely powerful suction for a cordless vacuum.
– Long battery life for extensive cleaning.
– Smart LED touch screen is very user-friendly.
– Excellent anti-tangle brush design, great for pet hair.
– Self-standing design is super convenient.
– High-efficiency filtration.

Cons:
– Requires 4 hours for a full charge.

Best for: Tech-savvy users and pet owners seeking a powerful, quiet, and convenient cordless vacuum for thorough cleaning across all floor types.

Expert Opinion: This cordless vacuum is a high-performer that brings intelligent features to everyday cleaning. Its incredible suction, long battery life, and smart interface make it one of the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors if you’re looking for a top-tier cordless experience, especially with pets.

VENHIDELY Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 50KPA/70Mins Vacuum…

The VENHIDELY Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a powerhouse, pushing the boundaries of cordless cleaning with an unprecedented 50kPa of suction power. This means it effortlessly tackles stubborn dirt, pet hair, and large debris from deep within carpets and delicate hardwood floors. What makes it even smarter is its Auto Dust Detection, which automatically adjusts suction power based on the dirt level, optimizing both cleaning and battery life. With an impressive 70 minutes of runtime on minimum suction, it’s ideal for whole-house cleaning. The LED All-in-one Intelligent Touchscreen provides real-time feedback on suction, battery, and even brush roller clogging. And similar to the previous cordless, the Hands-free, Self-supporting Function and Flexible Anti-tangle Brush with LED headlights further elevate the cleaning experience.

Key features that stand out:
– 50000Pa Powerful Cordless Suction: Unmatched suction power for deep cleaning carpets and hard floors.
– Auto Dust Detection: Automatically adjusts suction for optimal cleaning and battery life.
– Up to 70 Mins Runtime: Long battery life for extensive cleaning sessions.
– LED All-in-one Intelligent Touchscreen: Real-time monitoring of vacuum status.
– Hands-free, Self-supporting Function: Stays upright anywhere for convenience.
– Flexible Anti-tangle Brush: V-shaped roller with LED lights to prevent hair tangles and illuminate dark areas.

Pros:
– Exceptional suction power, rivaling some corded models.
– Smart auto dust detection enhances efficiency.
– Very long battery life for large homes.
– Intuitive LED touchscreen for easy control.
– Self-standing design is very practical.
– Anti-tangle brush works wonders on pet hair.

Cons:
– Higher price point due to advanced features.

Best for: Homeowners seeking the most powerful and technologically advanced cordless vacuum for comprehensive cleaning across all floor types, especially if budget isn’t the primary concern.

Expert Opinion: VENHIDELY has packed a serious punch with this cordless cleaner. The combination of immense suction, intelligent auto-detection, and extended battery life makes it a formidable contender for the title of best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors in the cordless category. It’s a premium experience for those who want the best of convenience and performance.

Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…

Sometimes, you just need a straightforward, effective vacuum that gets the job done without fuss or a hefty price tag. The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner fits that bill perfectly. Weighing only 8.4 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to maneuver around furniture and up stairs, making it a great option for quick cleans. The 25-ft power cord provides a decent reach, so you’re not constantly replugging. It comes with upholstery and crevice tools to tackle different surfaces and tight spots, ensuring versatile cleaning. The 1.7L large capacity dust cup means less frequent emptying, and the quick-release button makes disposal hygienic. Plus, the washable filter ensures long-lasting performance and keeps maintenance costs down.

Key features that stand out:
– Easy Maneuverability: Weighs only 8.4 lbs with a 25-ft power cord for convenient movement.
– Versatile Cleaning: Includes upholstery and crevice tools for various surfaces and tight spaces.
– Large Capacity Dust Cup: 1.7L dust cup for longer cleaning sessions with easy, quick-release emptying.
– Washable Filter: Ensures long-lasting performance and easy, cost-effective maintenance.

Pros:
– Very lightweight and easy to use.
– Simple, straightforward operation.
– Good value for the price.
– Decent cord length for an upright.
– Washable filter and large dust cup for easy maintenance.

Cons:
– Lacks advanced features and specialized attachments found in higher-end models.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers or those looking for a basic, reliable, lightweight upright vacuum for everyday cleaning on both carpets and hard floors.

Expert Opinion: The Amazon Basics upright is a no-frills, dependable choice. While it might not have the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it competently handles everyday dirt and debris on mixed flooring. It’s an excellent entry-level option if you’re looking for one of the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors without breaking the bank.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When sifting through the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors, you’ll notice a few key differentiators. For ultimate power and consistent suction, the corded uprights like the Eureka Lightweight Powerful and Eureka PowerSpeed deliver reliable performance, especially for deep carpet cleaning, often trapping allergens effectively. The Eureka NEU10AE5 stands out as the lightest upright, making it a fantastic choice for those who struggle with heavier machines or have multiple levels in their home.

If versatility and tackling diverse cleaning tasks are your priority, the Intercleaner Corded Vacuum is a standout. Its stick-to-handheld conversion and plethora of attachments make it a true all-rounder, perfect for small apartments or as a supplementary vacuum for detailed cleaning, though its cord makes it less agile for large open spaces compared to cordless options.

For the cutting-edge cordless experience, the MOHOMO and VENHIDELY models lead the pack. Both offer impressive suction power that rivals many corded vacuums, combined with the freedom of cordless operation. The VENHIDELY edges out slightly on raw power (50kPa vs 48kPa) and battery life (70 mins vs 65 mins), and its auto dust detection is a truly intelligent feature for optimizing cleaning. However, the MOHOMO also offers a self-standing design and a fantastic LED touch screen, making both excellent premium choices for pet owners and those with large homes seeking top-tier convenience.

Finally, for budget-friendly reliability, the Amazon Basics Upright provides excellent value. It’s a straightforward, lightweight option that competently cleans mixed flooring without any unnecessary frills, proving you don’t need to spend a fortune to get decent results on both carpets and hardwood. All the Eureka models mentioned also offer great value at different price points for uprights.

Final Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Clean

Choosing the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors really boils down to your specific needs, budget, and cleaning style.

For the Best All-Rounder (Corded Upright): The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright offers an excellent balance of power, lightweight design, a large dust cup, and pet-friendly features, making it a versatile choice for most homes.

For the Most Powerful Cordless Experience: If you crave convenience without compromising on power, the VENHIDELY Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a showstopper. Its immense suction, smart features, and long battery life make it a premium choice for extensive homes. However, the MOHOMO Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a very close second, offering similar high performance and intelligent design.

For Budget-Conscious Buyers: Don’t overlook the Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner. It’s a simple, effective, and incredibly lightweight solution for everyday cleaning across mixed floor types without a hefty price tag.

For Ultimate Versatility and Detail Cleaning: The Intercleaner Corded Vacuum Cleaner stands out with its 12-in-1 functionality and impressive suction, making it ideal for those who need a multi-tool for every nook and cranny.

Ultimately, whether you prioritize raw power, cordless freedom, specialized features for pets, or simply a reliable budget option, there’s a vacuum on this list ready to help you keep both your carpets and hardwood floors impeccably clean.

Frequently Asked Questions about Best Vacuum Cleaners for Carpets and Hardwood Floors

Q1: What features are most important when looking for the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors?
A1: Look for vacuums with adjustable brush roll heights or multiple cleaning modes to handle different floor types. A brush roll shut-off feature is crucial for hardwood floors to prevent scratches. Strong, consistent suction is important for both, but particularly for deep carpet cleaning. Look for good filtration (like HEPA) to trap allergens, and consider if you prefer corded power or cordless convenience.

Q2: Is a brush roll really necessary for carpets? What about hardwood floors?
A2: Yes, a brush roll (also called a beater bar) is highly effective for carpets as it agitates the fibers to dislodge embedded dirt and pet hair. However, on hardwood floors, an active brush roll can sometimes scatter debris or even cause minor scratches. That’s why the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors offer a brush roll on/off switch or a separate bare floor mode, allowing you to turn it off or use softer bristles when cleaning hard surfaces.

Q3: Are cordless vacuums powerful enough for deep carpet cleaning?
A3: Cordless vacuums have made huge strides in power. Many modern cordless models, like the MOHOMO and VENHIDELY reviewed here, offer impressive suction comparable to some corded uprights, making them very effective for carpet cleaning. However, for extremely deep-pile carpets or very heavy-duty cleaning, a corded upright might still offer slightly more sustained power.

Q4: How important is filtration, especially for homes with pets or allergies?
A4: Filtration is extremely important, especially if you have pets or suffer from allergies. Look for vacuums with HEPA filters or multi-stage filtration systems (like the Pro-Max system in the Intercleaner or the 99.99% efficiency in the MOHOMO and VENHIDELY). These systems trap tiny particles, dander, and allergens, preventing them from being recirculated into the air, leading to a much cleaner and healthier home environment.

Q5: What’s the benefit of an extra-long cord or a self-standing design in the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors?
A5: An extra-long cord (like the 16.4ft on the Intercleaner or 25ft on the Amazon Basics) allows you to clean larger areas without constantly having to unplug and replug, saving time and hassle. A self-standing design (seen in the MOHOMO and VENHIDELY cordless models) offers immense convenience. It means you can pause cleaning and simply let the vacuum stand upright on its own, instead of leaning it against a wall or laying it on the floor, making quick breaks or multitasking much easier.

Q6: How often should I clean or replace my vacuum’s filters?
A6: This largely depends on your usage and the type of filter. For washable filters (like those in the Eureka NEU10AE5 and Amazon Basics), rinsing them every 2-4 weeks and letting them air dry completely is generally recommended. For non-washable HEPA filters, check your vacuum’s manual, but typically they need replacement every 6-12 months, or more frequently if you have pets or a very dusty home. Regular filter maintenance is key to maintaining optimal suction and extending the life of your best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors.

Q7: Can I use the same vacuum cleaner for pet hair on both carpets and hardwood floors?
A7: Absolutely! Many of the best vacuum cleaners for carpets and hardwood floors are specifically designed with pet owners in mind. Look for models that mention “pet-ready attachments” (like the Eureka PowerSpeed’s Pet Turbo Brush) or “anti-tangle brush rolls” (like those in the MOHOMO and VENHIDELY). These features are engineered to efficiently pick up pet hair without getting clogged, ensuring a clean home regardless of your floor type.