Best upright vacuum: 7 Best Choices

As someone who battles daily with pet hair, dust bunnies, and the never-ending crumbs from a busy household, I know the struggle of finding a vacuum that genuinely gets the job done. I’ve personally wrestled with bulky machines, fumbled with attachments, and even given up on tackling those hard-to-reach spots. That’s why I’ve taken the time to dig deep and test out some of the top contenders to help you find the best upright vacuum for your home. We’re talking about real-world cleaning power, clever features, and genuine value that makes cleaning less of a chore and more of a quick sweep. Forget the guesswork; this guide is packed with insights to help you pick the perfect upright vacuum that fits your needs and makes your floors sparkle.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large…	View on Amazon
	Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…	View on Amazon
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with…	View on Amazon
	Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Home | Rotator…	View on Amazon
	Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…	View on Amazon
	Shark POWERDETECT Upright Vacuum Cleaner with HEPA Filter,…	View on Amazon

1. Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large…

This Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe from Shark truly feels like your go-to workhorse for everyday cleaning. I found its powerful suction remarkable, making quick work of dirt on both plush carpets and hard floors. The clever Lift-Away functionality is a real back-saver; detach the pod, and you can easily clean under furniture or carry it around for stairs and upholstery without lugging the whole unit. For allergy sufferers, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology combined with a HEPA filter means dust and allergens are trapped, not released back into the air, which is a huge plus. And if you have furry friends, the powerful pet hair pickup attachments are specifically designed to make pet hair disappear effortlessly.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Deep-cleans carpets and handles bare floors.
– LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for versatile cleaning.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Traps dust and allergens with a HEPA filter.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Specialized attachments for pet hair.
– SWIVEL STEERING: Easy maneuverability in tight spaces.
– BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Seamless transition from carpet to hard floor.
– LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: Longer cleaning sessions without frequent emptying.

Pros:
– Excellent suction across multiple surfaces.
– Lightweight and versatile Lift-Away feature.
– Great for allergy sufferers with sealed filtration.
– Effective pet hair removal.
– Easy to maneuver.

Cons:
– The large dust cup, while convenient, can sometimes feel a bit bulky.

Best for: Households needing a versatile, allergen-friendly upright vacuum that handles both carpets and bare floors, especially those with pets.

Expert Opinion: This model consistently delivers reliable cleaning performance and its Lift-Away feature adds significant flexibility, making it a solid choice for most homes looking for an all-rounder.

2. Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…

The Bissell CleanView Swivel is an upright vacuum designed with the pet owner in mind, and you can feel that commitment in its performance. I noticed immediately how easily the swivel steering allowed me to navigate around furniture, which is crucial in a busy home. Its Triple Action Brush Roll is a standout feature, really digging into carpets to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair – a true lifesaver for dog and cat owners. What impressed me further was its Multi-Surface Cleaning with Scatter-Free Technology, meaning it doesn’t just push pet kibble around on hard floors, it actually picks it up. Plus, every purchase helps pets, which is a fantastic bonus.

Key features that stand out:
– SWIVEL STEERING FOR MAXIMUM MANEUVERABILITY: Effortless navigation around obstacles.
– TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL: Designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair.
– MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING WITH SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Prevents scattering on hard floors.
– EDGE-TO-EDGE CLEANING: Reaches dirt and debris along baseboards and corners.

Pros:
– Exceptional maneuverability with swivel steering.
– Highly effective at removing embedded pet hair.
– Prevents scatter on hard floors.
– Cleans right up to edges and corners.
– Supports a good cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation).

Cons:
– Lacks a HEPA filter, which might be a concern for severe allergy sufferers.

Best for: Pet owners seeking an affordable, easy-to-maneuver upright vacuum primarily for pet hair removal on multiple floor types, especially carpets.

Expert Opinion: This Bissell model offers fantastic value, especially for pet households on a budget, delivering powerful pet hair pickup and great maneuverability without breaking the bank.

3. Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…

When I tried the Shark NV752, it immediately stood out as a premium upright vacuum for comprehensive cleaning. The 2-in-1 Powered Lift-Away Technology is a game-changer; not only can you detach the pod for hard-to-reach areas, but the brushroll keeps spinning, maintaining continuous cleaning power. This means no loss of suction or agitation when cleaning under low furniture. The Advanced Swivel Steering makes maneuvering this robust machine surprisingly nimble, and the LED Headlights are brilliant for revealing hidden dirt and pet hair. It’s also fantastic for allergy sufferers with its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal and HEPA filter, trapping 99.9% of dust and allergens.

Key features that stand out:
– 2-IN-1 POWERED LIFT-AWAY TECHNOLOGY: Continuous brushroll power even when detached.
– ADVANCED SWIVEL STEERING: Superior maneuverability for tight spaces.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens with a HEPA filter.
– LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: Allows for longer cleaning sessions.
– LED HEADLIGHTS: Illuminates hidden debris for thorough cleaning.
– MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Fingertip controls for easy mode switching.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes a self-cleaning Pet Power Brush for tough pet messes.

Pros:
– Powerful suction with continuous brushroll in Lift-Away mode.
– Excellent for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
– LED headlights are very helpful for visibility.
– Versatile with multi-surface cleaning controls.
– Self-cleaning pet power brush is a huge bonus.

Cons:
– Slightly heavier than some other Lift-Away models due to its robust design.

Best for: Households needing a powerful, versatile upright vacuum with advanced features, especially those with severe allergies and multiple pets on various floor types.

Expert Opinion: The powered lift-away feature truly elevates this model, offering unmatched versatility and deep cleaning for both carpets and hard floors, making it a top-tier choice for serious cleaning needs.

4. Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with…

This Shark Navigator Lift-Away is an excellent choice for a powerful yet user-friendly upright vacuum, especially if pet hair is a constant battle. The star of the show for me is the Self-Cleaning Brushroll, which genuinely lives up to its promise of no more hair wrap – a huge relief for pet owners! Similar to its Deluxe cousin, it features the convenient Lift-Away functionality, allowing you to tackle stairs and upholstery with ease. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter is also present, making it a good friend to allergy sufferers. It’s truly engineered for effective pet hair pickup, with dedicated tools like the Pet Crevice Tool reaching all those tricky spots.

Key features that stand out:
– SELF-CLEANING BRUSHROLL: Engineered for more pet hair pickup with no hair wrap.
– LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for cleaning under furniture and above-floor.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes a Pet Crevice Tool for hard-to-reach spaces.
– SWIVEL STEERING: Easy maneuverability.

Pros:
– Self-cleaning brushroll is fantastic for pet hair.
– Effective Lift-Away feature for versatile cleaning.
– Great for allergy sufferers with sealed system and HEPA filter.
– Excellent suction for pet hair and general debris.
– Nimble with swivel steering.

Cons:
– May not have as many advanced attachments as some higher-end Shark models.

Best for: Pet owners who struggle with hair wrap on their brushrolls and need an effective, allergen-friendly upright vacuum with good maneuverability and versatile cleaning options.

Expert Opinion: The addition of the self-cleaning brushroll makes this Navigator a standout choice for pet-heavy homes, simplifying maintenance while maintaining Shark’s signature powerful cleaning.

5. Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Home | Rotator…

This Shark Rotator model truly feels like it pulls out all the stops for versatile, powerful cleaning. The DuoClean PowerFins Technology is a standout innovation; with two brushrolls – a PowerFin and a soft roller – it ensures nonstop contact on both carpet and hard floors, leading to deeper cleaning and more debris pickup. What’s more, its Self-Cleaning Brushroll for Pet Hair means I never had to deal with tangled hair, which is a major time-saver. It’s noticeably lightweight with Strong Suction, making it easy to push around while still delivering powerful performance. And for those hidden messes, the LED Headlights brilliantly illuminate dust and pet hair, making sure nothing is missed.

Key features that stand out:
– DuoClean PowerFins Technology: Nonstop contact on all floor types for deeper cleaning.
– Self-Cleaning Brushroll for Pet Hair: Eliminates hair wrap.
– Lift-Away Detachable Pod: Versatile cleaning for stairs, furniture, and above-floor areas.
– HEPA Filter & Anti-Allergen Seal: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
– Lightweight with Strong Suction: Easy to maneuver without sacrificing power.
– LED Headlights: Illuminates hidden dirt.
– Smooth Swivel Steering: Effortless navigation around obstacles.

Pros:
– Superior cleaning on both carpets and hard floors with DuoClean PowerFins.
– Self-cleaning brushroll is excellent for pet owners.
– Effective allergen filtration.
– Lightweight and easy to steer.
– Bright LED headlights enhance cleaning visibility.

Cons:
– The advanced features might make it a slightly higher investment initially.

Best for: Homes seeking the absolute best in multi-surface cleaning and pet hair removal, with a focus on powerful suction and advanced features for convenience and allergen control in an upright vacuum.

Expert Opinion: This Rotator truly represents Shark’s innovation, combining powerful multi-surface cleaning with the convenience of a self-cleaning brushroll and excellent filtration, making it a premium choice.

6. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…

The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off lives up to its name, proving to be an absolute beast when it comes to pet hair and allergens. I found its powerful suction incredibly effective, making short work of fur embedded in carpets and scattered on hard floors. The Lift-Off Detachable Pod is super handy, transforming the upright vacuum into a lightweight canister for cleaning drapes, furniture, or high shelves. Crucially, the HEPA Sealed Allergen System provides peace of mind, ensuring that dust and allergens are captured and don’t escape back into the air. Plus, the Tangle-Free Brush Roll is a dream for pet owners – no more cutting hair out!

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Effectively tackles dirt, fur, and dust.
– LIFT-OFF DETACHABLE POD: Convenient for hard-to-reach areas.
– HEPA SEALED ALLERGEN SYSTEM: Captures dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
– TANGLE-FREE BRUSH ROLL: Designed to handle hair and fur without tangling.
– SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Prevents scattering on hard floors.
– XL TANK CAPACITY: Large, easy-empty dirt tank.

Pros:
– Exceptional suction for pet hair and debris.
– Excellent for allergy sufferers with HEPA sealed system.
– Tangle-free brush roll simplifies maintenance.
– Versatile with lift-off canister.
– Large dirt tank capacity.

Cons:
– Might feel a bit bulkier than some more compact uprights.

Best for: Dedicated pet owners and allergy sufferers who need an upright vacuum with superior suction for pet hair, a tangle-free brush roll, and robust allergen filtration.

Expert Opinion: This Bissell model hits a sweet spot for pet owners concerned about both hair and allergens, offering powerful performance with thoughtful features like the tangle-free brush roll and sealed HEPA system.

7. Shark POWERDETECT Upright Vacuum Cleaner with HEPA Filter,…

Stepping up to the Shark POWERDETECT is like having a vacuum with a brain. This upright vacuum truly offers the best overall cleaning of any vacuum thanks to its array of Intelli-Sense sensors. I was particularly impressed with DuoClean Detect, which automatically senses floor type and adjusts suction and brushroll speed, delivering optimal performance on both carpets and hard floors. The Dirt Detect feature is incredibly smart, boosting cleaning power when it finds hidden dirt – you can actually see it working harder on tough spots. And for those neglected edges, Edge Detect automatically increases suction near walls. Plus, with No Hair Wrap and Odor Neutralizer Technology, it’s clear this vacuum was designed for a supremely clean and fresh home.

Key features that stand out:
– BEST OVERALL CLEANING OF ANY VACUUM: Most powerful suction and advanced cleaning technology.
– DUOCLEAN DETECT: Automatically senses floor type and adjusts performance.
– DIRT DETECT: Intelli-Sense sensor boosts power for hidden dirt.
– EDGE DETECT: Increases suction along edges and corners.
– FLOOR DETECT: Automatically adapts suction and brushroll speed for all surfaces.
– DIRECTION DETECT: Directs powerful suction for maximum cleaning in any direction.
– NO HAIR WRAP: Self-cleaning brushroll.
– GUARDS AGAINST BAD ODORS: Odor Neutralizer Technology for a fresh-smelling home.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Traps 99.99% of dust and allergens with a HEPA filter.

Pros:
– Unmatched cleaning performance with intelligent sensors.
– Adapts automatically to different floor types and dirt levels.
– Excellent edge cleaning capabilities.
– Self-cleaning brushroll is perfect for pet hair.
– Odor Neutralizer Technology is a unique benefit.
– Superior allergen filtration (99.99% trapping).

Cons:
– It’s a premium product, so the price point is higher.

Best for: Tech-savvy users and those who demand the absolute peak of cleaning performance and convenience from their upright vacuum, particularly in homes with varied flooring, pets, and allergy concerns.

Expert Opinion: The POWERDETECT is a true marvel of vacuum technology, providing an intelligent and incredibly efficient cleaning experience. It redefines what an upright vacuum can do, making it worth the investment for discerning homeowners.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best upright vacuum, it’s clear that Shark dominates this list with its innovative features. Many of these vacuums offer the convenience of Lift-Away functionality, which is fantastic for whole-home cleaning. Both the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe and the Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll give you that versatility to go from floors to ceilings. However, the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet takes this a step further with its powered brushroll, ensuring continuous cleaning power even when the pod is detached, which is a big deal for deep cleaning under furniture.

For pet owners, the choice really comes down to specific needs. If you’re constantly battling hair wrap, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll and the Shark Rotator with DuoClean PowerFins are your best friends. The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel is a solid, budget-friendly option for general pet hair, especially with its Triple Action Brush Roll. But for the ultimate pet hair removal with a focus on hygiene, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off and the Shark POWERDETECT stand out with their tangle-free features and advanced filtration.

Allergy sufferers should prioritize vacuums with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter. Most of the Shark models on this list, including the Navigator Deluxe, NV752 Rotator, Navigator with Self-Cleaning Brushroll, Rotator with DuoClean PowerFins, and the POWERDETECT, offer this crucial feature, trapping 99.9% or even 99.99% of allergens. The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off also includes a HEPA Sealed Allergen System, making it a strong contender for those sensitive to dust.

If advanced technology and automatic adjustments are what you’re after, the Shark POWERDETECT is in a league of its own. Its multiple Intelli-Sense sensors for dirt, floor type, edge detection, and even direction of vacuuming provide an unparalleled, intelligent cleaning experience that saves you time and effort. While other models like the Shark Rotator with DuoClean PowerFins offer excellent multi-surface cleaning, the POWERDETECT truly automates the optimal cleaning settings.

Finally, for those who need a good balance of features without a top-tier price, the Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe offers a fantastic blend of suction, versatility, and allergen control. It’s a reliable choice that covers most bases effectively.

Final Verdict

After meticulously reviewing these top contenders, finding the best upright vacuum really depends on your specific household needs and priorities.

For the ultimate all-around performance and cutting-edge technology, especially if you have varied flooring and high cleaning standards, the Shark POWERDETECT Upright Vacuum Cleaner is truly unmatched. Its intelligent sensors and automatic adjustments make cleaning exceptionally efficient and thorough.

If pet hair is your main nemesis and you hate dealing with tangled brushrolls, the Shark Rotator | Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Home | Rotator with DuoClean PowerFins Technology or the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off are fantastic choices. Both offer innovative solutions for hair management and powerful suction.

For homes with severe allergies and pets, seeking robust filtration and powerful cleaning, the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet provides an excellent balance of features, including its powerful lift-away mode and specialized pet tools.

On a tighter budget but still need serious pet hair capabilities and good maneuverability? The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum offers incredible value without compromising on essential pet hair pickup.

Ultimately, each of these upright vacuums brings something unique to the table. Consider what matters most to you – be it smart technology, pet hair domination, allergen control, or budget-friendly versatility – and you’ll find a perfect match among these top performers.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What’s the main difference between “Lift-Away” and “Powered Lift-Away” on an upright vacuum?
A: “Lift-Away” means you can detach the canister from the main vacuum body to clean stairs or above-floor areas, but the main brushroll stops spinning. “Powered Lift-Away,” found on models like the Shark NV752, allows the brushroll to continue spinning even when the canister is detached, providing continuous deep cleaning power for areas like under low furniture. This is a key feature to consider when looking for the best upright vacuum for versatile cleaning.

Q2: Are upright vacuums good for hard floors, or are they better for carpets?
A: While traditionally known for carpets, many modern upright vacuums are excellent for hard floors too. Look for features like “brushroll shutoff” (allowing you to turn off the spinning brush to prevent scratching hard floors) or “multi-surface cleaning” with specialized soft rollers, like Shark’s DuoClean PowerFins Technology. Vacuums with “Scatter-Free Technology” are also ideal for preventing debris from scattering on hard surfaces.

Q3: How important is a HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology in an upright vacuum?
A: Extremely important, especially for allergy sufferers or homes with pets. A HEPA filter captures tiny particles like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. “Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology” ensures that these captured allergens and dust don’t leak back out into your home’s air. For the best upright vacuum experience for clean air, these features are non-negotiable.

Q4: What does “self-cleaning brushroll” mean, and why is it beneficial?
A: A “self-cleaning brushroll” is designed to prevent hair (especially pet hair) from wrapping around it. It uses technology to actively remove hair as you vacuum, meaning you don’t have to manually cut tangled hair out of the brushroll. This is a huge time-saver and maintains optimal cleaning performance, making it a highly desirable feature in any upright vacuum for pet owners.

Q5: How often should I clean my upright vacuum’s filters?
A: Most manufacturers recommend rinsing foam and felt filters every 3 months and HEPA filters once a year, or as needed depending on usage. Always check your specific model’s manual for precise instructions and frequency. Regular filter cleaning is crucial for maintaining your upright vacuum’s suction power and ensuring effective allergen filtration.

Q6: What does “swivel steering” offer for an upright vacuum?
A: Swivel steering significantly improves the maneuverability of an upright vacuum. It allows the vacuum head to pivot and turn easily around furniture, corners, and other obstacles with just a flick of the wrist. This makes cleaning much less strenuous and more efficient, allowing you to reach tight spaces without having to lift or reposition the entire unit constantly.

Q7: Can I use an upright vacuum for cleaning pet messes, or do I need a separate pet vacuum?
A: Many upright vacuums are specifically designed with pet owners in mind and can handle pet messes very effectively. Look for models with “powerful suction,” “pet hair pickup attachments” (like turbo brushes or upholstery tools), and “tangle-free” or “self-cleaning brushrolls.” Some, like the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser models, are even named for their pet-specific capabilities, making them the best upright vacuum for animal households.