Best portable vacuum: 10 Best Choices

I’ve been there – you’re about to head out, and suddenly you spot a trail of crumbs from breakfast, or your furry friend leaves a tiny, fluffy gift on the couch. Or perhaps your car interior looks like a mini-disaster zone after a road trip. These are the moments when a clunky, corded vacuum just won’t cut it. What you need is a reliable, powerful, and truly portable vacuum. Over the years, I’ve tried my fair share of these handy gadgets, from tiny car cleaners to powerful handhelds, always searching for that perfect balance of convenience and cleaning prowess. A good portable vacuum isn’t just a luxury; it’s an essential tool for maintaining a clean, tidy space with minimal fuss.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean Cordless Handheld…	View on Amazon
	BLACK+DECKER dustbuster QuickClean Cordless Handheld…	View on Amazon
	BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum, Lithium Ion,…	View on Amazon
	MONOZEL Car Vacuum Portable Cordless, 18000Pa 2 in 1…	View on Amazon
	Fanttik Slim V8 APEX Car Vacuum, 4-in-1 Portable Mini…	View on Amazon
	Car Vacuum Portable Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner 4-in-1…	View on Amazon
	LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Stick Vac with…	View on Amazon
	BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet and Upholstery…	View on Amazon
	Pet Hair Handheld Vacuum Cordless: 20000PA High Power Car…	View on Amazon
	DEWALT 20V Vacuum, Cordless Handheld Vacuum, HEPA, Battery…	View on Amazon

In this guide, we’ve put together a comprehensive look at some of the best portable vacuum options on the market. We’ve dug deep into their features, performance, and real-world utility to help you pick the right one for your specific needs. Whether you’re battling pet hair, car messes, or just need a quick clean-up, there’s a portable vacuum here for you.

BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean Cordless Handheld…

When you need to tackle those quick messes around the house or in your car, the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean is a reliable choice. I’ve found it incredibly handy for everyday spills – think cereal on the kitchen floor or dust bunnies under the couch. Its 16V MAX lithium-ion battery ensures consistent, strong suction, which is crucial for picking up stubborn dirt. I particularly appreciate the rotating slim nozzle that effortlessly gets into tight spots like between sofa cushions, and the flip-up brush is a godsend for upholstery or dusting delicate surfaces. Plus, the easy-view dirt bowl means no guesswork about when to empty it, and both the bowl and filter are washable for hassle-free maintenance.

Key features that stand out:
– 16V MAX lithium-ion battery for high suction.
– Cordless convenience and lightweight design.
– Rotating slim nozzle for tight spaces.
– Pull-out crevice tool and flip-up brush for versatility.
– Cyclonic action for sustained suction.
– Washable dirt bowl and filter for easy cleaning.

Pros:
– Excellent suction power for its size.
– Versatile attachments make cleaning various surfaces easy.
– Easy to empty and clean.
– Compact and easy to store.
Cons:
– Battery life might feel short for very large cleaning tasks.

Best for: General household quick clean-ups, car interiors, and pet hair on furniture.

Expert Opinion: This model lives up to the dustbuster name by delivering consistent power and intelligent design features that make it a go-to for daily messes. The rotating nozzle and flip-up brush are particularly useful, enhancing its versatility beyond basic handheld vacuums.

BLACK+DECKER dustbuster QuickClean Cordless Handheld…

For those moments when you just need to grab and go for a lightning-fast cleanup, the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster QuickClean really shines. It’s the simpler, more streamlined sibling to the AdvancedClean, focusing on pure, unadulterated convenience. I often keep this one in my car for those unexpected snack mishaps or when I need to quickly dust off the dashboard. The lithium-ion battery still provides a decent punch of power, making short work of crumbs, pet hair, and general debris. Its built-in crevice tool is super practical – no fumbling for extra attachments when you just need to get between seat cushions. It’s light, compact, and always ready.

Key features that stand out:
– Lithium-ion battery for optimal performance.
– Cordless, portable, and lightweight design.
– Multi-surface use for quick clean-ups.
– Built-in crevice tool for hard-to-reach areas.

Pros:
– Incredibly lightweight and easy to handle.
– Ideal for very quick, small messes.
– Built-in crevice tool is convenient.
– Easy to charge and store.
Cons:
– Fewer specialized attachments compared to other models.

Best for: Ultra-quick clean-ups, small spills, and keeping in the car for minor messes.

Expert Opinion: This QuickClean model excels in simplicity and immediate availability. While it lacks some of the advanced features, its “grab-and-go” nature makes it an indispensable tool for minor, everyday spills where speed is paramount.

BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum, Lithium Ion…

As a pet owner, I know the struggle is real when it comes to fur. The BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser is specifically designed to tackle this challenge head-on. This isn’t just a portable vacuum; it’s a pet-cleaning powerhouse. The motorized brush tool is a game-changer – it genuinely digs into upholstery and carpets to lift embedded pet hair that other vacuums might miss. I’ve been amazed at how effectively it cleans cat hair from my fabric sofa and dog hair from car seats. The easy-empty dirt bin is a thoughtful touch, designed to trap hair and messes efficiently, making disposal quick and less messy. And with every purchase supporting the BISSELL Pet Foundation, you feel good about this vacuum.

Key features that stand out:
– Motorized brush tool for embedded pet hair.
– 14V lithium-ion battery for cordless power.
– Easy-empty dirt bin designed for pet hair.
– Specialized pet tools including upholstery and crevice tools.
– Triple-level filtration for capturing dust and debris.

Pros:
– Exceptional at removing pet hair from various surfaces.
– Motorized brush is highly effective.
– Easy to empty and clean.
– Supports a good cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation).
Cons:
– Primarily designed for pet messes, so general cleaning might not fully utilize its specialized features.

Best for: Pet owners needing to remove embedded pet hair from furniture, stairs, and car interiors.

Expert Opinion: The BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser sets the standard for specialized pet-focused handheld vacuums. Its motorized brush tool is a significant differentiator, making it far more effective at picking up stubborn pet hair than standard portable vacuums.

MONOZEL Car Vacuum Portable Cordless, 18000Pa 2 in 1…

If you’re looking for a versatile portable vacuum that goes beyond just suction, the MONOZEL Car Vacuum is a serious contender. This isn’t just a powerful 18000Pa car vacuum; it’s also an air duster, which I’ve found incredibly useful for blowing dust out of vents or keyboards. The upgraded 130W brushless motor delivers incredible speed and suction power, making it effective for everything from crumbs to sand. I love the 7800mAh large capacity battery that charges quickly via Type-C, meaning it’s always ready for a thorough car cleaning or even blowing up a swimming ring with its inflation nozzles! Plus, its relatively quiet operation at ≤85dB is a bonus.

Key features that stand out:
– 18000Pa powerful suction (Max mode) and 130W brushless motor.
– 2-in-1 vacuum and air duster functionality.
– Multi-purpose accessories including various brushes and inflation nozzles.
– 7800mAh large battery with Type-C fast charging (2.5-3 hours).
– Lightweight (1.4lb) with a 0.26L dust cup.
– LED lights for improved visibility.

Pros:
– Exceptionally powerful suction for a portable unit.
– Dual vacuum and air duster function adds huge value.
– Fast charging and long battery life.
– Versatile accessories for many tasks, including inflation.
Cons:
– Max suction mode uses up battery quicker, so plan accordingly.

Best for: Detailed car cleaning, multi-functional home and office use (vacuuming, dusting, inflating), and users who need high power.

Expert Opinion: This MONOZEL vacuum impresses with its high suction power, efficient brushless motor, and its truly versatile 2-in-1 design. The additional inflation feature and comprehensive accessory kit make it a standout choice for those seeking more than just a simple car vacuum.

Fanttik Slim V8 APEX Car Vacuum, 4-in-1 Portable Mini…

The Fanttik Slim V8 APEX is a marvel of compactness and multifunctionality. When I first held it, I was struck by its ultra-light 1.1lbs design, making it super easy to wield with one hand. Don’t let its size fool you; it packs a punch with 19000Pa suction from an 80000rpm brushless motor. What truly makes this a 4-in-1 wizard is its ability to vacuum, blow, inflate, and pump – it’s incredibly practical for diverse needs beyond just car cleaning. I particularly appreciate the thoughtful one-touch to empty design, which means I can ditch the debris without getting my hands dirty, and the HEPA filter captures a whopping 95.99% of particles. Just remember, it’s designed for small jobs, not whole-house cleanups.

Key features that stand out:
– 4-in-1 multifunctional: Vacuuming, blowing, inflating, pumping.
– 19000Pa Max suction from an 80000rpm brushless motor.
– Ultra-light (1.1lbs) and compact design.
– Type-C fast charging (2.5 hours).
– 10 practical accessories including specialized brushes and hoses.
– One-touch to empty dust bin with HEPA filtration.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and portable.
– Highly versatile with 4-in-1 functions.
– Strong suction for its size.
– Fast charging and thoughtful emptying design.
Cons:
– Best suited for small-scale jobs and not larger areas.

Best for: Car detailing, office desks, computer keyboards, and small, quick clean-ups where portability and multi-functionality are key.

Expert Opinion: The Fanttik Slim V8 APEX perfectly encapsulates the “mini portable vacuum” concept. Its high suction for its compact size, combined with the 4-in-1 functionality and intuitive design, makes it an excellent tool for specific, detailed cleaning tasks, especially for vehicle interiors.

Car Vacuum Portable Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner 4-in-1…

This portable car vacuum offers an impressive array of features, making it a strong contender for anyone needing a versatile cleaning tool. Much like the Fanttik, it boasts a 4-in-1 multifunctional design, allowing you to vacuum, blow, inflate, and even suction. I’ve found its 16.8kPa suction power to be more than adequate for picking up fine sand, dust, and crumbs in the car or around the house. The ultra-light 1 lb design is incredibly comfortable to hold, and the Type-C fast charging ensures it’s ready to go after just 2.5 hours. With a 170ml dust cup capacity, it handles a good amount of debris before needing to be emptied, which is a simple one-touch process.

Key features that stand out:
– 4-in-1 multifunctional: Vacuuming, blowing, inflating, suction.
– 16.8kPa powerful suction from an 80,000 RPM brushless motor.
– Ultra-light (1 lb) and cordless design.
– Long battery life (up to 40 minutes in Eco mode) with Type-C fast charging.
– 10 practical accessories for various cleaning tasks.
– 170ml dust cup capacity and one-touch emptying with HEPA filtration.

Pros:
– Highly versatile with multiple functions.
– Very lightweight and easy to maneuver.
– Decent suction power for its size.
– Good battery life and fast charging.
Cons:
– Suction may weaken slightly in Max mode as the battery depletes.

Best for: Car cleaning, small home/office messes, and travel due to its compact size and multi-functionality.

Expert Opinion: This car vacuum offers exceptional value by packing a comprehensive 4-in-1 feature set into a remarkably lightweight and portable design. Its strong suction and efficient charging make it a highly practical choice for keeping various spaces tidy.

LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Stick Vac with…

While often categorized as a stick vacuum, the LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner makes our list for its remarkable portability for a full-sized cleaning experience. I appreciate how lightweight it is, making it easy to grab for quick clean-ups around the house without the bulk of a traditional upright. It’s a fantastic solution for those “in-between” cleans or when you don’t want to drag out a heavy vacuum. The tangle-resistant design for picking up pet and human hair is a huge plus, saving me time on maintenance. With up to 50 minutes of runtime and 5-stage filtration that’s great for pets and allergies, it offers a comprehensive clean in a surprisingly portable package.

Key features that stand out:
– Tangle-resistant design for hair.
– Versatile cleaning for various floor types and surfaces.
– Easy-empty dust bin with one-click disposal.
– Lightweight for quick cleaning sessions.
– Washable filters and easy-to-clean roller.
– 5-stage filtration for pets and allergies.
– Up to 50-min runtime.

Pros:
– Excellent battery life for a cordless stick vac.
– Tangle-resistant feature is a major convenience for pet owners.
– Effective filtration system, good for allergy sufferers.
– Versatile attachments for different surfaces.
Cons:
– Larger than typical handheld vacuums, so not as compact for very tight spaces.

Best for: Whole-home quick clean-ups, pet owners seeking a lightweight solution for floors and carpets, and those with allergies.

Expert Opinion: The LEVOIT offers a compelling blend of portability and full-scale cleaning capabilities. Its extended runtime and tangle-resistant features are particularly beneficial for homes with pets, making it a highly practical choice for everyday use where a handheld isn’t quite enough.

BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet and Upholstery…

Now, this one is a bit different, but absolutely earns its place on a list of best portable cleaning devices. The BISSELL Little Green isn’t a dry vacuum; it’s a mini portable carpet and upholstery spot cleaner. And for that specific task, it’s unparalleled. I’ve used it countless times for accidental coffee spills on the rug, muddy paw prints on the sofa, or food stains in the car. It sprays, scrubs, and suctions to effectively remove embedded dirt and stains. The included 4″ Tough Stain Tool and HydroRinse hose tool make it incredibly efficient. Plus, knowing that every purchase helps save pets through the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a heartwarming touch. It’s a lifesaver for tackling wet messes.

Key features that stand out:
– Spot cleaner functionality for carpet and upholstery.
– Saves pets with every purchase.
– Sprays, scrubs, and suctions to remove embedded dirt and stains.
– Includes 4” Tough Stain Tool and HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool.
– Compact design for easy storage.
– 8oz. BISSELL Little Green Formula included.

Pros:
– Exceptionally effective at removing wet stains and odors.
– Compact and easy to store.
– Perfect for pet accidents and spills.
– Self-cleaning hose tool is very convenient.
Cons:
– Not a dry vacuum, so it won’t pick up solid debris like crumbs.

Best for: Pet owners, families with kids, or anyone needing to quickly and effectively remove wet spills, spots, and stains from carpets, upholstery, and car interiors.

Expert Opinion: The BISSELL Little Green is an essential portable appliance for immediate spill and stain remediation. While not a vacuum in the traditional sense, its specialized ability to wet-clean and extract makes it the undisputed champion for tackling liquid messes and refreshing upholstery on the go.

Pet Hair Handheld Vacuum Cordless: 20000PA High Power Car…

This “VC038S Pet Vac” is another strong contender for pet owners seeking powerful, portable cleaning. What really sets it apart is the built-in automatic roller brush, which makes effortless work of stubborn pet hair, litter, and debris – a feature I absolutely love for quickly de-furring couches and car seats. With an impressive 20000PA suction, it offers 60% stronger suction than many handhelds, making short work of tough messes. The generous 720ml dust bin means you can clean for longer without frequent emptying, which is a huge convenience, especially when dealing with a lot of pet hair. Plus, the dual filtration system (washable HEPA and steel filter) ensures powerful, consistent suction and healthier air.

Key features that stand out:
– 20000PA powerful suction with dual Eco/Max modes.
– Built-in automatic roller brush for pet hair.
– 10400mAh battery with Type-C fast charging (2.5H).
– Large 720ml dust bin.
– Dual filtration system (washable HEPA and steel filter).
– LED light for dark spots.
– Comprehensive accessories including multiple filters and brushes.

Pros:
– Outstanding suction power.
– Automatic roller brush is highly effective for pet hair.
– Large dust bin capacity reduces emptying frequency.
– Fast charging and decent runtime.
– Excellent dual filtration system.
Cons:
– The overall size might be slightly larger than other mini-vacs.

Best for: Pet owners needing serious power and a dedicated tool for pet hair removal on various surfaces, including cars, furniture, and carpets.

Expert Opinion: This handheld vacuum is clearly designed for pet owners who demand high performance. The combination of 20000PA suction and the automatic roller brush positions it as a top-tier choice for efficiently tackling even the most challenging pet-related messes, with the added benefit of a large bin.

DEWALT 20V Vacuum, Cordless Handheld Vacuum, HEPA, Battery…

When you need heavy-duty, professional-grade portable cleaning, the DEWALT 20V Vacuum steps up to the plate. This isn’t your average quick-spill handheld; it’s built for tougher jobs. With 46 CFM and 65 Air Watts (when paired with a 5.0Ah battery, sold separately), this vacuum offers serious suction power capable of handling fine dust like concrete and drywall. I’ve found it invaluable for workshop cleanups, car detailing after a DIY project, or even construction site touch-ups. The HEPA filtration ensures clean exhaust, which is critical when dealing with fine particles. Its robust design, easy-empty canister, and bright LED light make it a workhorse for serious messes.

Key features that stand out:
– 46 CFM and 65 Air Watts for powerful suction.
– HEPA Filtration for fine dust.
– 6 accessory cleaning solutions with a drawstring bag.
– Easy empty canister to minimize dust exposure.
– Bright LED light for dark areas.
– Belt hook for hands-free operation.
– Part of the DEWALT 20V MAX system (battery sold separately).

Pros:
– Exceptionally powerful for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
– HEPA filtration is great for fine dust.
– Durable, professional-grade build.
– Bright LED light is very useful in dark spaces.
– Easy to empty and maintain.
Cons:
– Battery and charger are sold separately, adding to the initial cost.

Best for: Tradespeople, DIY enthusiasts, garage/workshop clean-ups, heavy-duty car detailing, and anyone needing robust, professional-grade portable suction.

Expert Opinion: The DEWALT 20V Vacuum stands as the most powerful and durable option on this list, ideal for professional use or demanding household tasks. Its strong suction and HEPA filtration are significant advantages for tackling construction debris and fine dust, setting it apart from lighter consumer models.

Comparison Insights: Finding Your Ideal Portable Vacuum

When you’re looking for the best portable vacuum, it’s clear there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The models we’ve reviewed highlight a range of specialties.

For general household quick clean-ups and basic car messes, the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean and QuickClean models are fantastic. They’re reliable, easy to use, and offer good value for everyday spills and dust. The AdvancedClean gives you more versatility with its rotating nozzle and flip-up brush, while the QuickClean is all about speed and simplicity.

If your primary battle is against pet hair, you absolutely need a specialized tool. The BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser stands out with its powerful motorized brush specifically designed to lift embedded fur. Similarly, the Pet Hair Handheld Vacuum Cordless (VC038S) offers a massive 20000PA suction and a built-in automatic roller brush, making it a serious contender for the most stubborn pet messes. Both offer significantly more pet-specific cleaning power than general handhelds.

For those who treat their car cleaning seriously, or need a multi-functional tool, the MONOZEL Car Vacuum, Fanttik Slim V8 APEX, and the Car Vacuum Portable Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner 4-in-1 are excellent. These often combine vacuuming with blowing, inflating, and sometimes even LED lights, making them incredibly versatile for vehicle interiors and tight spaces. They’re all ultra-lightweight and often feature Type-C fast charging, which is a huge plus for on-the-go lifestyles. The MONOZEL boasts slightly higher suction, while the Fanttik and the generic 4-in-1 are remarkably similar in their compact, feature-rich design.

Now, for those heavy-duty tasks that lighter models can’t handle, the DEWALT 20V Vacuum is in a league of its own. It’s designed for tougher debris, workshops, and job sites, offering significantly more raw power and HEPA filtration for fine dust. Keep in mind it’s part of a tool system, so you’ll need a DEWALT 20V battery.

Finally, a unique but incredibly useful portable option is the BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner. Remember, this isn’t a dry vacuum. It’s your go-to device for wet spills and stubborn stains, effectively spraying, scrubbing, and suctioning away liquid messes. It’s an indispensable tool for accident-prone areas where a dry vacuum just won’t cut it.

If you’re looking for a portable yet powerful stick vacuum for larger general home clean-ups, the LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner offers fantastic battery life and a tangle-resistant design, making it a great grab-and-go option for floors and carpets that still offers true portability without being a full-sized upright.

Final Verdict: Choosing Your Best Portable Vacuum

Deciding on the best portable vacuum really boils down to your primary cleaning needs.

For Everyday Convenience: If you need a reliable, no-fuss portable vacuum for common household crumbs and dust, the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean is a fantastic all-rounder. It strikes a great balance of power, features, and ease of use for general tasks.

For Pet Owners (High-Powered Hair Removal): When pet hair is your nemesis, you can’t go wrong with either the BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser or the Pet Hair Handheld Vacuum Cordless (VC038S). The BISSELL is a proven, purpose-built option, while the VC038S brings massive suction and an effective roller brush for an aggressive attack on fur.

For Car Enthusiasts & Multi-Taskers: For detailed car cleaning or a versatile tool that vacuums, blows, and inflates, the MONOZEL Car Vacuum offers superb power and functionality. The Fanttik Slim V8 APEX and the similar Car Vacuum Portable Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner 4-in-1 are excellent ultra-light alternatives that pack a punch for their size and offer similar multi-functional benefits.

For Heavy-Duty Messes & Workshops: When you’re dealing with construction debris, workshop dust, or require industrial-strength portable suction, the DEWALT 20V Vacuum is the undisputed champion. It’s built tough for tough jobs.

For Wet Spills & Stains: And for those inevitable liquid accidents, remember that the BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is your ultimate portable solution. It’s not a dry vacuum, but it’s the absolute best at what it does – tackling wet messes head-on.

Ultimately, assess what kind of messes you face most often, where you’ll be using it, and what features will truly make your life easier. With these top 10 choices, you’re sure to find a portable vacuum that fits your cleaning style.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What defines a “best portable vacuum” and what should I look for?
A1: The “best portable vacuum” is one that balances suction power, battery life, portability (weight and size), and specialized features for your specific needs. Look for strong suction (measured in Air Watts or Pa), a decent runtime, lightweight design, ease of emptying, and relevant attachments (like crevice tools or pet brushes). For car cleaning, consider multi-functional options.

Q2: How important is battery life for a portable vacuum?
A2: Battery life is crucial for a cordless portable vacuum. A longer runtime means you can clean more before needing to recharge, which is especially important for larger tasks like cleaning a whole car or several rooms. Look for models offering at least 15-20 minutes on high power, with some stick vacs reaching 30-50 minutes. Fast charging (like Type-C) is also a beneficial feature.

Q3: Can a portable vacuum effectively pick up pet hair?
A3: Yes, many portable vacuums are specifically designed for pet hair. Look for models with motorized brush tools or automatic roller brushes, as these are far more effective at lifting embedded pet hair from upholstery and carpets than standard suction nozzles. Good filtration systems are also helpful for managing pet dander.

Q4: Are handheld car vacuums powerful enough for thorough cleaning?
A4: Modern handheld car vacuums, especially those with brushless motors and higher Pascal (Pa) suction ratings (e.g., 18000Pa or 20000Pa), are very powerful and capable of thorough car cleaning. Many also come with versatile attachments for tight spots and blowing functions for dusting vents, making them highly effective for vehicle interiors.

Q5: What’s the difference between a traditional portable vacuum and a portable spot cleaner like the BISSELL Little Green?
A5: A traditional portable vacuum (like the BLACK+DECKER dustbusters) is designed for dry messes – picking up crumbs, dust, debris, and pet hair. A portable spot cleaner (like the BISSELL Little Green) is designed for wet messes – it sprays cleaning solution, scrubs, and then suctions up liquids and stains from carpets and upholstery. They serve completely different, but equally valuable, cleaning functions.

Q6: How do I maintain my portable vacuum’s suction power?
A6: To maintain optimal suction for your portable vacuum, regularly empty the dirt bin, clean or replace the filters as recommended by the manufacturer (many are washable HEPA filters), and ensure there are no blockages in the nozzle or hose. Keeping the battery fully charged before use also helps maintain consistent performance.

Q7: Is HEPA filtration really necessary for a portable vacuum?
A7: HEPA filtration is very beneficial, especially if you have allergies, pets, or are cleaning fine dust (like drywall dust). It captures a higher percentage of tiny particles, allergens, and pet dander, ensuring cleaner air is expelled from the vacuum. For general quick clean-ups, it might not be strictly necessary, but it’s a definite plus for air quality.