Best upright vacuums Featuring 7 Quality Options

I remember a time when vacuuming felt like a workout, wrestling a heavy machine around furniture, only to find pet hair still clinging to the rug. That’s why I’ve always been on the hunt for the best upright vacuums – the kind that make cleaning less of a chore and more of a satisfying sweep. Having personally explored countless models, from robust powerhouses to nimble pet hair specialists, I know the difference a quality upright vacuum can make in maintaining a clean and allergen-free home. This guide isn’t just a list; it’s a deep dive into 7 top-tier upright vacuum options, sharing practical insights, real-world benefits, and what makes each one stand out. Whether you’re battling stubborn pet fur, managing allergies, or simply seeking a powerful cleaner for diverse floor types, we’ll uncover the perfect upright vacuum cleaner to meet your needs and help you decide which one will best elevate your cleaning game.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large…	View on Amazon
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with…	View on Amazon
	Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum with PowerFins…	View on Amazon
	Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum 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
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon

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

This Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a fantastic all-rounder, combining robust cleaning power with incredible versatility. What I love most is its Lift-Away functionality, which lets you detach the pod to easily clean stairs, upholstery, or even under low furniture without lugging the whole unit. It delivers powerful suction that deep-cleans carpets and handles bare floors with ease, making it a true multi-surface champion. For anyone concerned about indoor air quality, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology paired with a HEPA filter does an excellent job of trapping dust and allergens. If you have pets, the included pet hair attachments make short work of fur, ensuring your home stays spotless. Plus, its swivel steering means navigating around obstacles is a breeze.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Deep-cleans carpets and tackles bare floors effectively.
– LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for versatile above-floor and under-furniture cleaning.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Powerful pet hair pickup with specialized attachments.
– SWIVEL STEERING: Allows for easy maneuverability in tight spaces.
– BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Instantly switch from carpet to bare floor cleaning.
– LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: 0.9-quart capacity for longer cleaning sessions.

Pros:
– Highly versatile for various cleaning tasks.
– Excellent for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
– Strong suction on multiple surfaces.
– Easy to maneuver and empty.
Cons: Can be a bit top-heavy when using the lift-away pod with attachments.
Best for: All-around home cleaning, pet owners, and allergy sufferers on a budget.
Expert Opinion: This model remains a classic for a reason. It offers an impressive suite of features, including HEPA filtration and lift-away versatility, usually found in higher-priced vacuums, making it exceptional value.

Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with… (Self-Cleaning Brushroll)

If you’re a pet owner, you know the frustration of tangled hair wrapping around your vacuum’s brushroll. That’s where this Shark Navigator Lift-Away really shines with its Self-Cleaning Brushroll, engineered specifically for more pet hair pickup with absolutely no hair wrap. It still retains the fantastic Lift-Away functionality for cleaning those hard-to-reach areas like curtains, lampshades, or tight corners with its specialized tools. Just like its Deluxe sibling, it features Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter to keep your air clean. The included Pet Crevice Tool is a game-changer for tackling pet hair in cramped spaces, making it a dream come true for homes with furry friends.

Key features that stand out:
– SELF-CLEANING BRUSHROLL: Engineered for powerful pet hair pickup with no hair wrap.
– LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for cleaning under furniture and above the floor.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Pet Crevice Tool removes hair from hard-to-reach spaces.
– SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver around furniture and in corners.
– UPHOLSTERY TOOL: Effectively picks up pet hair and debris from delicate fabrics.

Pros:
– Eliminates hair wrap, a major headache for pet owners.
– Versatile Lift-Away feature.
– Great for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
– Specialized tools enhance pet hair removal.
Cons: May require more frequent dust cup emptying compared to larger capacity models.
Best for: Pet owners prioritizing tangle-free operation and versatile cleaning.
Expert Opinion: The self-cleaning brushroll is a significant upgrade for any pet owner. This model takes the excellent Navigator platform and specifically tailors it to solve one of the biggest pet-related vacuuming frustrations.

Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum with PowerFins…

This Shark Rotator Pet is a true powerhouse, especially for homes with multiple pets. What sets it apart is the PowerFins HAIRPRO technology, actively gripping and capturing stubborn long, short, and pet hair on both carpets and hard floors with exceptional efficiency. Paired with a Self-Cleaning Brushroll, you can say goodbye to hair wrap forever. But it’s not just about hair; the Odor Neutralizer Technology guards against bad smells inside your vacuum, leaving your home smelling fresher. With its 3XL capacity, you can clean larger areas without constant interruptions to empty the dust cup, and the 12-foot extendable hose ensures no corner or ceiling goes uncleaned.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFINS HAIRPRO: Actively grips and captures all types of hair on carpets and floors.
– SELF-CLEANING BRUSHROLL: Powerful pet hair pickup with no hair wrap.
– ODOR NEUTRALIZER TECHNOLOGY: Guards against bad odors inside the vacuum.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Traps 99.99% of dust and allergens with a HEPA filter.
– 3XL CAPACITY: For long cleaning sessions with fewer interruptions.
– EXTENDABLE HOSE: Extends up to 12 feet for above-floor cleaning.
– CLEANS CARPETS AND HARD FLOORS: Removes embedded hair and debris from all surfaces.

Pros:
– Unbeatable pet hair removal and odor control.
– Huge dust cup capacity for less emptying.
– Superior allergen filtration (99.99%).
– Extended reach for comprehensive cleaning.
Cons: Its larger size and features might make it heavier than simpler uprights.
Best for: Dedicated pet owners with large homes and allergy concerns.
Expert Opinion: For pet owners seeking the absolute best in hair removal, odor control, and comprehensive whole-home cleaning from Shark, the ZU102 with PowerFins is the top contender.

Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…

The Bissell CleanView Swivel is an excellent choice for pet owners who want effective cleaning without breaking the bank, and every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, which is a huge plus! Its standout feature is the Triple Action Brush Roll, designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair from carpets with impressive efficiency. The Swivel Steering makes maneuvering around furniture and obstacles incredibly easy, reducing strain during your cleaning routine. I particularly appreciate the Multi-Surface Cleaning with Scatter-Free Technology, which ensures that dry pet messes on hard surfaces are picked up, not just pushed around.

Key features that stand out:
– EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS: Supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
– SWIVEL STEERING: Maximum maneuverability around furniture.
– TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL: Loosens, lifts, and removes embedded pet hair.
– MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING WITH SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Prevents scattering of dry pet messes on hard floors.
– EDGE-TO-EDGE CLEANING: Tackles dirt and debris along edges and in corners.

Pros:
– Budget-friendly and supports a good cause.
– Excellent for embedded pet hair removal.
– Easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
– Prevents scatter on hard floors.
Cons: Lacks the advanced HEPA filtration or lift-away feature found in some other models.
Best for: Budget-conscious pet owners, general home cleaning on mixed floor types.
Expert Opinion: This Bissell model delivers fantastic core vacuuming performance for pet owners at a very competitive price point. It’s a testament to effective design without unnecessary frills.

Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Home | Rotator… (DuoClean PowerFins)

This Shark Rotator model with DuoClean PowerFins Technology truly redefines multi-surface cleaning. It features two brushrolls—PowerFin and a soft roller—that provide nonstop contact on both carpet and hard floors, resulting in deeper cleaning and more debris pickup in every pass. For pet owners, the Self-Cleaning Brushroll ensures no more annoying hair wrap. This vacuum is also engineered to pick up more hair overall, making it ideal for furry households. With the convenient Lift-Away Detachable Pod, cleaning stairs, furniture, and above-floor areas becomes effortless. Combined with a HEPA Filter & Anti-Allergen Seal, it traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it perfect for allergy-prone homes.

Key features that stand out:
– DuoClean PowerFins Technology: Provides nonstop contact on carpet and hard floors for deeper cleaning.
– Self-Cleaning Brushroll for Pet Hair: Delivers powerful pet hair pickup with zero hair wrap.
– Engineered for Hair Pickup: Designed to pick up more hair effectively.
– Lift-Away Detachable Pod: For versatile whole-home, multi-surface vacuuming.
– HEPA Filter & Anti-Allergen Seal: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
– Lightweight with Strong Suction: Delivers more suction while being lighter than some older models.
– LED Headlights: Expose hidden dirt, dust, and pet hair.
– Smooth Swivel Steering: Maneuver around furniture and into tight spots with ease.

Pros:
– Superior cleaning on all floor types with DuoClean PowerFins.
– Tangle-free brushroll is a dream for pet owners.
– Excellent for allergy sufferers.
– Versatile Lift-Away feature for comprehensive cleaning.
– LED headlights improve visibility.
Cons: Can be a higher investment due to its advanced technology and features.
Best for: Homeowners with mixed flooring and pets, allergy sufferers seeking premium performance.
Expert Opinion: This Rotator truly brings Shark’s best technologies together. The DuoClean PowerFins combined with the self-cleaning brushroll and lift-away makes it one of the most versatile and effective uprights on the market for diverse cleaning needs.

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…

The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off is a highly specialized upright designed specifically for homes with pets and allergy sufferers. It boasts POWERFUL SUCTION to tackle dirt, fur, and dust effectively. Its LIFT-OFF DETACHABLE POD is incredibly convenient for cleaning hard-to-reach spots, allowing you to carry a lightweight canister for stairs or upholstery. A crucial feature is the HEPA SEALED ALLERGEN SYSTEM, which captures dust allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from escaping back into the air you breathe. The TANGLE-FREE BRUSH ROLL is a relief for pet owners, cutting the hassle of hair wrap. Plus, its SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY makes vacuuming hard floors a breeze, avoiding scattered messes.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Effectively tackles dirt, fur, and dust.
– LIFT-OFF DETACHABLE POD: Conveniently clean hard-to-reach areas with a lightweight canister.
– HEPA SEALED ALLERGEN SYSTEM: Captures allergens inside the vacuum, preventing their escape.
– TANGLE-FREE BRUSH ROLL: Designed to handle hair and fur without tangling.
– SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Prevents scattering of debris on hard floors.
– XL TANK CAPACITY: 1L Easy Empty dirt tank for fewer interruptions.
– INCLUDED TOOLS: 2-In-1 Dusting Brush/Crevice Tool, TURBOERASER Pet Tool.

Pros:
– Excellent for pet hair and allergy management.
– Versatile lift-off feature for targeted cleaning.
– Tangle-free brush roll simplifies maintenance.
– Large dirt tank reduces emptying frequency.
– Supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Cons: Might feel slightly heavier than non-lift-off models in its class.
Best for: Pet owners with allergy concerns who need versatile cleaning for multiple surfaces.
Expert Opinion: This Bissell is a direct competitor to Shark’s pet-focused lift-aways, offering robust allergen filtration, tangle-free operation, and impressive versatility, all while supporting a great cause.

Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

For those seeking strong cleaning power without the hefty price tag, the Eureka PowerSpeed is an impressive contender. Despite being incredibly Lightweight, it offers powerful pick-up, penetrating deep into carpets to extract embedded dirt, dust, and debris. The Upgraded Cyclone System is designed to handle various debris sizes, from large crumbs to microscopic dust, ensuring a thorough clean. With 5 Height Settings, it adapts effortlessly to different floor types, from shag rugs to hard floors, with smooth-rolling wheels that prevent scratches. It also comes with multiple accessories stored conveniently on board, making above-floor cleaning tasks simple. Best of all, it traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens, providing great benefits for allergy sufferers on a budget.

Key features that stand out:
– Upgraded Cyclone System: Handles large debris, smaller dirt, and microscopic dust.
– Powerful pick-up: Penetrates deep into carpet to extract embedded dirt.
– Lightweight: Easy to maneuver and carry.
– 5 Height Settings: Adapts to various carpet piles and hard floors.
– Multiple accessories included: On-board tools for above-floor cleaning.
– Traps 99.9% of dust, dander and allergens: Good for allergy sufferers.

Pros:
– Very affordable yet powerful.
– Extremely lightweight and easy to use.
– Versatile with 5 height settings for different floors.
– Good for allergy relief at its price point.
– Convenient on-board tool storage.
Cons: Lacks advanced features like lift-away or specialized tangle-free brushrolls for heavy pet hair.
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, smaller homes, or those needing a basic yet powerful and lightweight upright.
Expert Opinion: The Eureka PowerSpeed defies its price point by offering strong suction and genuine allergen trapping capabilities. It’s a fantastic entry-level option that proves you don’t need to spend a fortune for effective cleaning.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking at the best upright vacuums, it’s clear that Shark dominates a large part of the market, but Bissell and Eureka offer compelling alternatives.

For pet owners, the choice often boils down to how much you’re willing to invest in advanced hair-management technology. The Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet with PowerFins HAIRPRO and Odor Neutralizer Technology is undoubtedly the top-tier option for serious pet households, tackling hair, odors, and allergens comprehensively. Closely following are the Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll and the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off, both fantastic for preventing hair wrap and offering robust pet hair pickup. The Bissell 2252 CleanView also excels at embedded pet hair removal and offers great value, though it lacks some of the advanced filtration and lift-away features.

If allergy relief is your primary concern, models featuring Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter are non-negotiable. All the Shark models (Navigator Deluxe, Navigator Self-Cleaning, ZU102 Rotator Pet, Rotator DuoClean PowerFins) and the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off proudly boast these features, trapping 99.9% or even 99.99% of dust and allergens. Even the budget-friendly Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner impresses by trapping 99.9% of allergens, making it a great option for those who need allergy relief without the premium price tag.

For versatility across different cleaning tasks, the Lift-Away functionality of the Shark Navigator Deluxe, Shark Navigator with Self-Cleaning Brushroll, Shark Rotator DuoClean PowerFins, and Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off is a game-changer. These models allow you to detach the canister for easy above-floor, stair, or under-furniture cleaning, transforming an upright into a portable canister vacuum. The Eureka, while powerful, doesn’t offer this feature.

When considering floor types, the Shark Rotator with DuoClean PowerFins Technology stands out for its exceptional performance on both carpets and hard floors, ensuring nonstop contact and deeper cleaning. Many other models, like the Shark Navigator Deluxe and Bissell CleanView, also offer multi-surface cleaning with features like brushroll shutoff or scatter-free technology, making them adaptable.

Finally, for budget-conscious buyers, the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner offers incredible value, providing powerful suction and allergen trapping at a very attractive price point. The Bissell 2252 CleanView is another strong contender in the value category, especially for pet owners.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best upright vacuum ultimately comes down to your specific needs, but after diving deep into these 7 excellent options, a few patterns emerge.

For the ultimate pet owner who demands everything: Look no further than the Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum with PowerFins. Its combination of PowerFins, self-cleaning brushroll, odor neutralization, huge capacity, and superior allergen filtration makes it the undisputed champion for pet-heavy homes.

For premium all-around performance on mixed floor types and serious allergy relief: The Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Home | Rotator (DuoClean PowerFins) is your pick. Its DuoClean technology, lift-away versatility, and HEPA filtration provide a comprehensive and satisfying cleaning experience for diverse homes.

For versatile cleaning, pet hair, and allergies without breaking the bank: Both the Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe and the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off offer fantastic value. The Shark Navigator Deluxe is a classic workhorse, while the Bissell adds tangle-free brushroll benefits specifically for pet hair.

For pet owners prioritizing hair-wrap elimination: The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll is tailored perfectly to tackle this common pet-owner frustration, ensuring hassle-free cleaning.

For budget-friendly pet owners who still need strong suction: The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum is an excellent choice. It effectively handles embedded pet hair and maneuvers easily, all while supporting a great cause.

For the best budget option with surprising power and allergen trapping: The Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner is truly impressive. It’s lightweight, powerful, and effective at trapping allergens, proving that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a cleaner home.

No matter which one you choose from these best upright vacuums, you’re investing in a cleaner, fresher, and more comfortable living space.

FAQ Section

Q1: What makes an upright vacuum better than a canister or stick vacuum?
A1: Upright vacuums are typically known for their powerful suction, especially on carpets, and wider cleaning paths, making them ideal for whole-house cleaning. Many upright vacuums also offer advanced brushroll technology perfect for deep cleaning and pet hair, often outperforming stick vacuums in raw power and capacity. Canisters are great for versatility, but uprights can feel more intuitive for large floor areas.

Q2: How important is “Lift-Away” functionality in an upright vacuum?
A2: “Lift-Away” functionality is incredibly useful if you have stairs, want to clean upholstery, or need to reach tight spots above the floor without carrying the entire heavy unit. It essentially transforms your upright vacuum cleaner into a portable canister, adding significant versatility to your cleaning routine.

Q3: What should pet owners look for in the best upright vacuums?
A3: Pet owners should prioritize upright vacuums with features like “Self-Cleaning Brushrolls,” “Tangle-Free Brushrolls,” or specialized pet hair technologies like “PowerFins HAIRPRO.” These are designed to effectively pick up pet hair without it wrapping around the brush, making maintenance much easier. Odor Neutralizer Technology (like in the Shark ZU102) is also a huge bonus for homes with pets.

Q4: Do I really need a HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology?
A4: If you or anyone in your household suffers from allergies or asthma, then yes, these features are highly recommended. A HEPA filter combined with an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal ensures that dust, dander, and allergens are trapped inside the upright vacuum, preventing them from recirculating into the air you breathe, leading to a much cleaner and healthier environment.

Q5: How often should I empty the dust cup on my upright vacuum?
A5: It’s best practice to empty your upright vacuum’s dust cup after every use or when it reaches its maximum fill line. Overfilling can reduce suction power and efficiency. Models with larger capacities, like the Shark ZU102’s 3XL capacity, allow for longer cleaning sessions before needing to be emptied.

Q6: Are lightweight upright vacuums powerful enough?
A6: Absolutely! Modern lightweight upright vacuum cleaners, such as the Eureka PowerSpeed, often feature advanced cyclone systems and powerful motors that deliver impressive suction for their size. While they might not have all the bells and whistles of heavier, more feature-rich models, they are perfectly capable of handling everyday dirt, debris, and even pet hair effectively, making them ideal for maneuverability and ease of use.

Q7: What does “Swivel Steering” do for an upright vacuum?
A7: Swivel steering makes your upright vacuum much easier to maneuver around furniture, obstacles, and into tight corners. Instead of needing to lift and reposition the vacuum, you can simply twist your wrist to guide it, significantly reducing the effort and time spent cleaning.