Best vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets

When I first started my independent living journey, I quickly realized that keeping a clean home was a constant battle, especially with a mix of plush carpets, sleek hardwood, and a fluffy pet. I’ve personally wrestled with several vacuums over the years, some great, some not so much, all in the quest for that spotless feeling. Choosing the best vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets isn’t just about picking any model off the shelf; it’s about finding the right tool that effortlessly handles everything from embedded pet hair in thick rugs to fine dust on delicate hard floors. This guide is built on that experience, cutting through the noise to bring you honest, practical insights. We’ll dive into what makes a vacuum truly effective on diverse surfaces, compare some of the top contenders, and help you pinpoint the ideal cleaner for your specific home needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…	View on Amazon
	Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa…	View on Amazon
	Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Shark Corded Stick Vacuum, Ultra-Lightweight, Swivel…	View on Amazon
	BISSELL Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop All in One Wet and…	View on Amazon
	Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo, 2 in 1 Robotic Vacuums…	View on Amazon
	Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Powerful Lightweight Upright Vacuum Carpet and…	View on Amazon

Our Top 10 Picks for Cleaning Floors and Carpets

Here are 10 of the most reliable and effective vacuums we’ve seen perform admirably on both hard floors and carpets.

1. Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner

This Eureka upright vacuum cleaner truly surprised me with its consistent performance across different surfaces. I found it remarkably lightweight, making it a breeze to carry up and down stairs, which is a huge plus for multi-story homes. The powerful suction tackles everything from fine dust on my hardwood floors to deeper dirt in my area rugs without a hitch. Its quick-release handle is a game-changer for tackling cobwebs on ceilings or dust on upholstery, quickly converting to an above-floor cleaning tool. Plus, with a washable filter, I appreciate the low maintenance and eco-friendly aspect.

• Key features that stand out:
  • POWERFUL ALL FLOOR SUCTION: Effortlessly extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets.
  • QUICK RELEASE HANDLE FOR ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING: Easily attaches crevice tool and dusting brush for versatile cleaning.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY STORAGE: Weighs only 7.7 pounds, compact design for easy storage.
  • EASY MAINTENANCE & ENVIROMENTAL FRIENDLY: Washable filter for no maintenance costs.
  • ALL TOOLS ON BOARD: Crevice tool and dusting brush snap onto the vacuum for easy access.
• Pros:
  • Excellent suction for both hard floors and carpets.
  • Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.
  • Washable filter makes maintenance simple and cost-effective.
  • On-board tools enhance versatility.
• Cons: The cleaning path might feel a bit narrow for very large rooms.
• Best for: Homeowners looking for a lightweight, versatile upright vacuum that performs well on all floor types with minimal maintenance.
• Expert Opinion: This vacuum delivers impressive power in a very light package, making it an excellent all-rounder. Its ease of use and maintenance are standout features for daily cleaning.

2. Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet

The Shark Rocket is a fantastic corded stick vacuum that really shines in versatility. Weighing under 9 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to push around, and the ability to convert it into a powerful handheld vacuum is something I use constantly for cleaning my car interior or furniture. It never loses suction, providing consistent power whether I’m deep cleaning carpets or delicately sweeping my hard floors. The swivel steering is super helpful for navigating around furniture legs, and the fingertip controls make switching between surfaces effortless.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Ultra-lightweight: At under 9 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to handle.
  • Converts to handheld: Offers versatile floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
  • Ultra-powerful, corded cleaning: Consistent suction on carpets and hard floors.
  • Fingertip controls: Easy toggling between surfaces.
  • Swivel Steering: Excellent control in tight spaces and around furniture.
  • Easy-empty dust cup: Quick and simple debris disposal.
• Pros:
  • Extremely lightweight and maneuverable.
  • Excellent conversion to a handheld unit for comprehensive cleaning.
  • Consistent, powerful suction due to its corded design.
  • Includes multiple useful attachments.
• Cons: Being corded, you’re tied to an outlet.
• Best for: Individuals needing a highly versatile and lightweight vacuum for comprehensive floor-to-ceiling cleaning, especially where corded power is preferred over battery life.
• Expert Opinion: A strong performer in the stick vacuum category, offering robust cleaning power for its size and excellent adaptability for various tasks. Its lightweight design is a huge advantage.

3. Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for

This Eureka PowerSpeed model boasts an upgraded cyclone system that makes a noticeable difference in how it handles debris. I found it particularly effective at penetrating deep into my carpets, pulling out embedded dirt and pet hair that other vacuums often leave behind. Despite its powerful pickup, it remains surprisingly lightweight, which makes chores less tiring. The 5 height settings are crucial for homes with varied flooring, allowing me to seamlessly transition from shag rugs to hardwood without missing a beat. The multiple included accessories are also a thoughtful touch for tackling every nook and cranny.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Upgraded Cyclone System: Handles larger debris, smaller dirt, and microscopic dust efficiently.
  • Powerful pick-up: Penetrates deep into carpets to extract embedded dirt, dust, and debris.
  • Lightweight: Performs powerfully without being cumbersome.
  • 5 Height Settings: Works well on carpets, shag rugs, and hard floors without scratches.
  • Multiple accessories included: Crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool for hard-to-reach areas.
  • Traps 99.9% of dust, dander and allergens: Great for allergy sufferers.
• Pros:
  • Excellent deep cleaning for carpets.
  • Versatile height settings for all floor types.
  • Includes a comprehensive set of accessories.
  • Good for trapping allergens.
• Cons: The roller brush requires regular cleaning to prevent clogging.
• Best for: Homes with a significant amount of carpeted areas and allergy sufferers who need powerful, adaptable cleaning for varied surfaces.
• Expert Opinion: This vacuum offers a great balance of power and versatility, especially for deep carpet cleaning. The upgraded cyclone system and allergen trapping capabilities make it a solid choice.

4. Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a staple for a reason. Its Lift-Away functionality is incredibly practical; detaching the pod to clean stairs or high shelves makes those otherwise awkward tasks feel simple. For someone concerned about indoor air quality, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter is a huge win, effectively trapping dust and allergens. I found its powerful suction equally effective on carpets and hard floors, and the brushroll shutoff is perfect for preventing scratches on delicate surfaces. Plus, it’s particularly perfect for pets, making quick work of fur.

• Key features that stand out:
  • LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for easy above-floor cleaning.
  • ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens.
  • POWERFUL & LIGHTWEIGHT: Strong suction for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors.
  • BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Instantly switch from carpet to bare floor cleaning.
  • SWIVEL STEERING: Easy maneuverability in tight spaces.
  • PERFECT FOR PETS: Powerful pet hair pickup attachments.
• Pros:
  • Outstanding for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
  • Highly versatile with the lift-away feature.
  • Effective on all floor types with brushroll control.
  • Maneuverable with swivel steering.
• Cons: It can be a bit bulkier in its upright configuration compared to stick vacuums.
• Best for: Pet owners and allergy sufferers who need a powerful, versatile upright vacuum for thorough cleaning across all floor types and above-floor areas.
• Expert Opinion: A consistently high-performing vacuum known for its excellent filtration and versatility, making it a reliable choice for homes with pets and allergy concerns.

5. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for

This iteration of the Eureka PowerSpeed really impressed me with its combination of a lightweight design (just 10 pounds) and heavyweight cleaning performance. The 960-watt motor provides consistent, strong suction across all my floor types – from my tiled kitchen to the wall-to-wall carpeting in the living room. What I particularly love is the extra-large 2.6-liter dust cup, which means fewer interruptions to empty it, making cleaning sessions much more efficient. The 5-height brush roll adjustment is key for customizing the clean to any surface, and the pet-ready attachments stored onboard are always handy for tackling fur.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Lightweight Yet Powerful: Just 10 pounds with a 960-watt motor for strong suction.
  • Strong Suction Across Surfaces: Consistent power for hardwood, tile, and carpeting.
  • Extra-Large Dust Cup for Fewer Empties: 2.6-liter capacity with a mess-free, bag-free design.
  • 5-Height Brush Roll Adjustment: Precision cleaning for thick carpet or bare floors.
  • Pet-Ready Attachments Onboard: Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, and dusting brush included.
• Pros:
  • Excellent suction performance for its lightweight design.
  • Large dust cup reduces the frequency of emptying.
  • Highly adjustable for various floor types.
  • Includes specific tools for pet hair.
• Cons: The onboard tools can sometimes feel a little fiddly to attach and detach.
• Best for: Pet owners and anyone needing a powerful, lightweight upright vacuum with great capacity and adaptability for mixed flooring.
• Expert Opinion: This PowerSpeed model provides exceptional value, offering powerful cleaning, a large dust cup, and specialized pet tools in a very manageable form factor.

6. Shark Corded Stick Vacuum, Ultra-Lightweight, Swivel

If you’re looking for an agile cleaner, this Shark corded stick vacuum is a fantastic choice. At under 9 lbs, it’s effortlessly light, making quick work of daily dust and debris. I especially appreciate its slim design, which allows me to easily reach under furniture without having to move heavy pieces. The swivel steering provides exceptional control, letting me navigate around obstacles smoothly. It transitions beautifully from hard floors to carpets, and for those smaller, trickier spots, it quickly converts to a handheld vacuum. Plus, the corded power means no battery anxiety – just nonstop whole-home cleaning.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Ultra-lightweight: Under 9 lbs for easy handling.
  • Seamless transitions: Effectively cleans both hard floors and carpets.
  • Slim design: Reaches under furniture with ease.
  • Swivel Steering: Excellent control around furniture.
  • Nonstop corded power: Continuous cleaning without battery limitations.
  • Converts to a handheld vacuum: Versatile floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
• Pros:
  • Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.
  • Great for reaching under low furniture.
  • Provides consistent, powerful suction.
  • Versatile for handheld cleaning.
• Cons: Requires finding new power outlets as you move around the house.
• Best for: Smaller homes, apartments, or quick daily cleanups where an ultra-light, continuous-power vacuum is preferred, especially for reaching tight spots.
• Expert Opinion: This Shark stick vacuum is a master of agility and convenience. Its light weight and ability to get into tight spaces, combined with corded power, make it highly efficient for everyday use.

7. BISSELL Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop All in One Wet and

The BISSELL CrossWave Turbo is a truly innovative solution for homes with a mix of hard floors and area rugs, particularly if you have pets. I love that it vacuums and washes at the same time, cutting my cleaning time significantly. It performs much better than a traditional mop and bucket, leaving my floors noticeably cleaner and drier. The two-tank technology is brilliant, ensuring that clean water and formula are always separate from the dirty water, so you’re never putting grime back on your floors. Plus, the antimicrobial treated filter helps keep odors at bay, a huge benefit for pet owners.

• Key features that stand out:
  • EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS: Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation.
  • VACUUM and WASH AT THE SAME TIME: Efficient 2-in-1 cleaning for wet and dry messes.
  • MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Safe and effective on tile, sealed wood, laminate, linoleum, and area rugs.
  • TWO-TANK TECHNOLOGY: Keeps clean water/formula separate from dirty water.
  • ANTIMICROBIAL TREATED FRESHSTART FILTER: Protects against odors.
• Pros:
  • Saves significant cleaning time by combining vacuuming and mopping.
  • Excellent for homes with pets and frequent spills.
  • Ensures a hygienic clean with separate water tanks.
  • Effective on a wide range of surfaces.
• Cons: Requires specific BISSELL cleaning formulas for optimal performance and wet components need regular cleaning.
• Best for: Homes with a predominance of hard floors and some area rugs, especially those with pets or children where spills and wet messes are common, and a simultaneous vacuum and mop function is desired.
• Expert Opinion: This unit excels at handling both dry debris and wet messes simultaneously, making it a powerful time-saver. It’s an ideal vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets where a deep, wet clean is often needed.

8. Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo, 2 in 1 Robotic Vacuums

This iMartine robot vacuum and mop combo offers fantastic hands-free convenience, especially for daily maintenance. Its powerful 2-in-1 function means it can vacuum up dust and pet hair while simultaneously mopping hard floors, all in one go. Controlling it via the Tuya Smart App or voice commands with Google Assistant is incredibly convenient – I can set it to clean even when I’m not home. As a pet owner, the tangle-free design is a huge relief; I no longer have to constantly cut hair out of traditional rollers. It’s also surprisingly quiet, allowing it to clean without disturbing my family or pets.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Powerful 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop Function: 2300Pa suction and 230ml water tank for efficient cleaning.
  • Smart App & Voice Control: Control cleaning plans and modes via Tuya Smart App, Google Assistant, or remote.
  • Tangle-Free Design for Pet Owners: Brushless design prevents pet hair tangles.
  • Ideal for Hard Floors and Low-Pile Carpets: Four cleaning modes for various tasks.
  • Quiet Operation: Noise levels below 65dB, won’t disturb daily activities.
• Pros:
  • Automated, hands-free cleaning and mopping.
  • Excellent for pet owners with its tangle-free design.
  • Smart control options for convenience.
  • Quiet operation.
  • Effective on hard floors and low-pile carpets.
• Cons: Might struggle with very high-pile carpets or complex, multi-level layouts.
• Best for: Busy households with hard floors and low-pile carpets, especially those with pets, seeking a hands-free, automated cleaning solution for daily maintenance.
• Expert Opinion: For automated daily cleaning of both floors and low-pile carpets, this robot vacuum offers excellent convenience and pet-friendly features with smart controls.

9. Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and

The Amazon Basics upright vacuum is a solid, no-frills option that delivers exactly what you need in a lightweight, versatile upright. At just 8.4 lbs, its easy maneuverability is a standout feature, making it comfortable to push around for extended periods. The 25-ft power cord gives you ample reach across rooms. I found the included upholstery and crevice tools, along with the detachable handle, incredibly useful for tackling various surfaces and tight spots. The large 1.7L dust cup means less frequent emptying, and the washable filter keeps maintenance straightforward and cost-effective.

• Key features that stand out:
  • EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Only 8.4 lbs with a 25-ft power cord.
  • VERSATILE CLEANING: Includes upholstery and crevice tools, plus a detachable handle.
  • LARGE CAPACITY DUST CUP: 1.7L capacity for longer cleaning sessions.
  • WASHABLE FILTER: For long-lasting performance and easy maintenance.
• Pros:
  • Very lightweight and easy to use.
  • Good cord length for room coverage.
  • Large dust cup capacity.
  • Simple to maintain with a washable filter.
  • Budget-friendly option.
• Cons: Lacks some of the advanced features found in more expensive models.
• Best for: Budget-conscious buyers or anyone needing a straightforward, lightweight upright vacuum for general cleaning across carpets and hard floors.
• Expert Opinion: A reliable, basic upright vacuum that focuses on core functionality and ease of use. It’s a great choice for those who want effective cleaning without unnecessary bells and whistles.

10. Eureka Powerful Lightweight Upright Vacuum Carpet and

This Eureka upright is a strong contender for its blend of power, convenience, and adaptability. What immediately caught my eye was the automatic cord rewind, a truly convenient feature that saves time and prevents tangles when storing the vacuum. With its 5-floor selection dial, it provides powerful all-floor cleaning on everything from delicate hardwoods to plush carpets, adjusting the suction and brush roll perfectly. Despite its robust performance, it’s still relatively lightweight at 12.3 lbs, making it easy to carry. The XL 2.1-liter dust cup means less frequent emptying, and the on-board accessories are always within reach.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Automatic Cord Rewind: Wraps the 25’ cord with a push of a button.
  • All-floor Powerful Cleaning: 5 floor selection dial for hardwood, tiles, carpets, and area rugs.
  • Lightweight and Liftable: Easy to carry around at 12.3 lbs.
  • XL Dust Cup Capacity: 2.1-liter capacity for less frequent emptying.
  • Accessories Included: 7″ Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush, Upholstery Tool, and Pet Tool.
• Pros:
  • Convenient automatic cord rewind.
  • Excellent adaptability with 5 floor settings.
  • Good power for deep cleaning carpets and hard floors.
  • Large dust cup and useful onboard accessories.
• Cons: The noise level (88 decibels) is on the louder side.
• Best for: Users who prioritize convenience features like cord rewind and need a powerful, adaptable upright vacuum for a home with diverse flooring types, including pet hair.
• Expert Opinion: This Eureka model is a solid, versatile upright that offers strong cleaning capabilities across various surfaces. The automatic cord rewind adds a significant touch of user-friendliness.

Helpful Comparison Insights: Finding Your Best Vacuum for Cleaning Floors and Carpets

When you’re looking for the best vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. Let’s break down some key considerations to help you choose:

Upright vs. Stick vs. Robot vs. Wet/Dry:
* Upright vacuums like the Eureka NEU10AE5, Eureka PowerSpeed, Amazon Basics, and Shark NV352 Navigator are generally best for homes with significant carpeting, offering deep cleaning power. They excel at covering large areas efficiently. Models like the Shark Navigator also feature lift-away functionality, dramatically increasing their versatility for stairs and above-floor cleaning, bridging the gap between upright and handheld.
* Stick vacuums, such as the Shark Rocket models, are ideal for hard floors and low-pile carpets, offering lightweight design and maneuverability. They often convert to handheld vacuums, making them incredibly versatile for quick cleanups and tricky spots. Their slim profiles also mean they’re great for reaching under furniture.
* Robot vacuums, like the iMartine 2-in-1 combo, are perfect for daily maintenance and hands-free cleaning on hard floors and low-pile carpets. If you have pets, their tangle-free designs can be a godsend. They offer convenience, but might not replace a full-power upright for deep cleaning or high-pile carpets.
* Wet/Dry vacuums (like the BISSELL CrossWave Turbo) are a specialized category, excelling on hard floors and area rugs where you need to vacuum and wash simultaneously. They are invaluable for pet owners who deal with wet messes and muddy paw prints, offering a more thorough clean than a traditional mop.

Weight and Maneuverability:
For ease of use, particularly if you have a multi-story home or mobility concerns, lightweight models are paramount. The Eureka NEU10AE5 (7.7 lbs) and Shark Rocket (under 9 lbs) stand out here. All the Shark models also feature swivel steering, making them exceptionally easy to navigate around furniture.

Pet Hair Performance:
Many vacuums claim to handle pet hair, but some truly excel. The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift-Away and Eureka PowerSpeed (with pet attachments) are particularly adept at lifting embedded fur from carpets. For hard floors and hands-free cleaning, the iMartine robot vacuum offers a tangle-free design specifically beneficial for pet owners. The BISSELL CrossWave is a godsend for pet messes, handling both fur and wet accidents.

Allergy Sufferers:
If allergies are a concern, look for vacuums with HEPA filters and sealed systems. The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift-Away explicitly features “Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter,” ensuring allergens are trapped inside. The Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright also boasts trapping 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens.

Maintenance and Convenience:
Washable filters are a huge plus for reducing long-term costs and maintenance, featured on models like the Eureka NEU10AE5 and Amazon Basics. For corded models, an automatic cord rewind (like on the Eureka Powerful Lightweight Upright) is a convenient feature that makes storage much easier.

Dust Cup Capacity:
If you have a larger home or don’t want to frequently empty the dustbin, consider models with extra-large dust cups. The Eureka PowerSpeed boasts a 2.6-liter capacity, and the Eureka Powerful Lightweight has a 2.1-liter cup, significantly reducing interruptions during cleaning.

Ultimately, the best vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets for your home depends on your specific floor types, whether you have pets or allergies, and your preference for manual or automated cleaning.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Champion for Clean Floors and Carpets

After delving into these fantastic options, it’s clear there’s no single “best” vacuum for every home. Instead, it’s about matching your unique needs with the right features.

If you’re a pet owner or suffer from allergies, the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is a powerhouse, combining incredible suction with a HEPA filter and lift-away versatility. Its specialized pet tools make fur removal a breeze.

For those who prioritize lightweight maneuverability and seamless transitions between hard floors and carpets, the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum is an exceptional choice. It’s easy to handle, converts to a handheld, and offers continuous power for comprehensive cleaning.

If your home is a mix of hard floors and area rugs, and you often deal with wet messes, the BISSELL Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop is a game-changer. Its ability to vacuum and wash simultaneously saves valuable time and delivers a deep, hygienic clean.

For the modern household seeking hands-free daily maintenance on hard floors and low-pile carpets, especially with pets, the Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo offers unparalleled convenience with its smart features and tangle-free design.

Finally, if you’re looking for an all-around reliable, powerful upright for diverse floor types without breaking the bank, either the Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright (for extreme lightweight) or the Eureka Powerful Lightweight Upright (with automatic cord rewind) offer excellent value and performance.

Consider your primary floor types, the presence of pets or allergy sufferers, and your preference for convenience features. Once you’ve narrowed down these factors, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the best vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets that will keep your home spotless.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What is the best type of vacuum for a home with both hard floors and carpets?
A1: For homes with mixed flooring, versatile vacuums are key. Upright vacuums with adjustable height settings or brushroll shutoff features (like the Shark NV352 Navigator or Eureka PowerSpeed) are excellent. Stick vacuums that convert to handhelds (like the Shark Rocket models) also offer great flexibility. Additionally, specialized units like the BISSELL CrossWave are superb for thorough cleaning of both hard floors and area rugs, while robot vacuum and mop combos provide convenient daily maintenance for these surfaces.

Q2: Are bagless vacuums better than bagged vacuums for cleaning floors and carpets?
A2: Both bagless and bagged vacuums have their advantages. Bagless vacuums (like most reviewed here) offer lower ongoing costs since you don’t buy bags, and you can easily see when they need emptying. However, emptying a bagless dust cup can release dust back into the air, which might be an issue for allergy sufferers. Bagged vacuums contain allergens better during disposal but require purchasing replacement bags. For the best of both worlds with a bagless unit, look for Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter (like in the Shark NV352).

Q3: How important is suction power for cleaning both floors and carpets?
A3: Suction power is crucial. For hard floors, strong suction effectively picks up dust, crumbs, and debris without scattering it. For carpets, especially thicker ones, powerful suction is essential to agitate and extract embedded dirt, pet hair, and allergens from deep within the fibers. Vacuums like the Eureka PowerSpeed models and Shark uprights are designed with strong motors for this purpose, making them a best vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets efficiently.

Q4: What features should I look for if I have pets?
A4: If you have pets, prioritize vacuums with strong suction, specialized pet tools (like a Pet Turbo Brush), and excellent filtration (HEPA filters) to capture dander. Tangle-free brushrolls (found in some robot vacuums like the iMartine) are also a huge plus to prevent hair from wrapping around the brush. The Shark NV352 Navigator and Eureka PowerSpeed are great upright options, while the BISSELL CrossWave excels at cleaning up both dry fur and wet pet messes.

Q5: How often should I vacuum my floors and carpets?
A5: For general cleanliness, vacuuming at least once a week is recommended. However, if you have pets, allergies, or high-traffic areas, you might need to vacuum 2-3 times a week, or even daily for light touch-ups (where a robot vacuum shines). Regular vacuuming prevents dirt and debris from settling deep into carpet fibers and helps maintain air quality, ensuring you’re getting the most out of your best vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets.

Q6: Can a stick vacuum effectively clean carpets, or are uprights better?
A6: While uprights generally offer more robust deep cleaning for high-pile carpets, many modern stick vacuums (like the Shark Rocket series) are surprisingly effective on low to medium-pile carpets and excellent on hard floors. They are fantastic for quick cleanups and surface dirt. For deep-seated dirt in thick or shag carpets, an upright vacuum with powerful brushroll action and adjustable height settings will typically outperform a stick vacuum. The best vacuum for cleaning floors and carpets in a home with thick carpets is usually a dedicated upright.