Best vacuum cleaner for home – 7 Options Reviewed

I remember the days of dragging around a clunky, inefficient vacuum cleaner, constantly battling tangled cords and leaving behind stubborn pet hair. It felt like a chore rather than a solution to keeping my home clean. That’s why I embarked on a mission to find the best vacuum cleaner for home – one that truly makes a difference. After thoroughly putting several popular models to the test, I’ve compiled a list that cuts through the noise. Whether you’re dealing with deep-pile carpets, gleaming hardwood floors, or an army of shedding pets, finding the right vacuum can transform your cleaning routine from a dreaded task into a satisfying one. In this guide, we’ll dive deep into 7 top-rated vacuum cleaners, exploring their features, benefits, and who they’re best suited for, so you can confidently choose the perfect cleaning companion for your household.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large…	View on Amazon
	Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush…	View on Amazon
	Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…	View on Amazon
	Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…	View on Amazon
	Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…	View on Amazon
	Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon

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

This Shark Navigator quickly became one of my go-to choices for its incredible versatility. Right out of the box, its robust feel promised powerful cleaning, and it delivered! I was particularly impressed with how effortlessly it transitioned from my high-pile living room carpet to the bare kitchen tiles, gobbling up everything in its path. The Lift-Away functionality is a total game-changer, allowing me to easily detach the pod to clean under furniture or carry it upstairs for upholstery without lugging the entire unit. For anyone with allergies, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology combined with a HEPA filter provides serious peace of mind, trapping dust and allergens inside. Plus, as a pet owner, I can attest to its stellar performance against pet hair, making it a strong contender for the best vacuum cleaner for home with furry friends.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors with multi-surface powerful suction.
– LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for cleaning under furniture or detach the nozzle to clean above the floor, on upholstery, furniture, stairs, and more.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Powerful pet hair pickup attachments like the upholstery tool make cleaning pet hair a breeze.
– SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver your vacuum in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more.

Pros:
– Excellent suction on multiple surfaces
– Versatile Lift-Away feature for varied cleaning needs
– Great for allergy sufferers and pet owners
– Large dust cup capacity for longer cleaning sessions
Cons:
– Can feel a bit top-heavy when using the Lift-Away pod for extended periods.

Best for: Homes with pets, allergy sufferers, and those needing a versatile vacuum for both floor and above-floor cleaning.

Expert Opinion: The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a remarkably well-rounded vacuum. Its blend of strong suction, advanced allergen filtration, and practical Lift-Away design makes it an ideal all-in-one solution for most households, especially those navigating pet hair and allergy concerns.

2. Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush…

When I first fired up the Bissell CleanView Swivel, I immediately noticed its smooth glide. The Swivel Steering is incredibly responsive, letting me weave around chair legs and corners with minimal effort. What really impressed me was the Triple Action Brush Roll – it seemed to actively dig into my carpets, loosening and lifting embedded dirt that my old vacuum missed, especially pet hair. And for anyone like me who dreads scattering crumbs across hard floors, the Scatter-Free Technology is a godsend; it effectively contains messes without kicking them around. Knowing that every purchase helps save homeless pets just adds another layer of satisfaction to using this capable machine.

Key features that stand out:
– SWIVEL STEERING: Maximize maneuverability to clean around furniture and corners.
– TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL: Loosens, lifts and removes embedded dirt and pet hair from multiple surfaces.
– SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Captures messes on hard floors with less scatter.
– NEW 2024 MODEL WITH ACTIVE EXTENSION WAND: Clean hard-to-reach areas quickly and easily.

Pros:
– Excellent maneuverability with swivel steering
– Highly effective at picking up pet hair and embedded dirt
– Minimizes scatter on hard floors
– Supports a great cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation)
Cons:
– Lacks a HEPA filter for advanced allergy relief.

Best for: Pet owners on a budget, homes with a mix of carpet and hard floors, and those who prioritize maneuverability.

Expert Opinion: The Bissell CleanView Swivel is a fantastic workhorse for pet-friendly homes. Its dedicated brush roll and swivel steering make tackling daily pet messes and general dirt surprisingly easy, offering great value for its performance.

3. Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…

If “lightweight” and “powerful” can exist in the same sentence, the Eureka NEU10AE5 proves it. Weighing in at only 7.7 pounds, this vacuum is ridiculously easy to carry from room to room or up a flight of stairs. Despite its featherlight design, it doesn’t skimp on suction; I found its powerful all-floor suction effectively cleaned both my carpets and hard floors. The quick release handle for above floor cleaning is a clever addition, turning the upright into a versatile tool for reaching cobwebs or dusting shelves. Plus, the washable filter means zero ongoing maintenance costs, which is a big win in my book for the best vacuum cleaner for home that’s also budget-friendly.

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: Crevice tool and dusting brush attach to the handle for extended reach.
– LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY STORAGE: Weighing only 7.7 pounds, it’s easy to carry and store.
– EASY MAINTENANCE & ENVIROMENTAL FRIENDLY: Washable filter for no maintenance costs.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver
– Strong suction for both carpets and hard floors
– Quick-release handle for versatile above-floor cleaning
– Washable filter reduces maintenance costs
Cons:
– Smaller dust cup requires more frequent emptying.

Best for: Smaller homes or apartments, individuals needing a lightweight and easy-to-store vacuum, and those who appreciate low maintenance.

Expert Opinion: The Eureka NEU10AE5 offers an impressive power-to-weight ratio. It’s an excellent choice for quick cleanups and those who find heavier vacuums cumbersome, delivering solid performance without breaking the bank or your back.

4. Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…

This compact Bissell CleanView really surprised me with its might despite its tiny footprint. At less than 8 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight and maneuverable, making it a breeze to carry up to my office or stash away in a cramped closet. It has powerful suction for its size, making short work of everyday dust and debris. Just like its larger sibling, it features Scatter-Free Technology, which is fantastic for preventing pet food or crumbs from scattering across hard floors. The easy empty dirt container means I can dispose of debris with just a push of a button, which is super convenient for quick cleanups. It truly feels like a tiny but mighty contender for the best vacuum cleaner for home where space is at a premium.

Key features that stand out:
– SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Captures messes on hard floors with less scatter.
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Convenient, powerful cleaning in one machine.
– LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE: Weighs less than 8 pounds, easy to transport.
– EASY EMPTY DIRT CONTAINER: Dispose of debris with a push of a button.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and compact, perfect for small spaces
– Powerful suction for its size
– Effective Scatter-Free Technology for hard floors
– Simple and easy to empty
Cons:
– Limited capacity means more frequent emptying for larger jobs.

Best for: Dorm rooms, small apartments, quick touch-ups, and those needing an ultra-light and compact cleaning solution.

Expert Opinion: The Bissell CleanView Compact punches above its weight. While not designed for deep, whole-house cleaning, it excels at providing convenient, powerful suction for smaller areas and quick cleanups, especially on hard floors.

5. Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum with…

The Shark Rocket Deluxe Pro is a master of transformation. As a stick vacuum, it’s sleek and agile, easily gliding under furniture. But its ability to convert into a handheld vacuum for versatile floor-to-ceiling cleaning truly impressed me. I used it to tackle my car interior, stairs, and even dusty ceiling fan blades with ease. Its powerful suction lived up to the Shark name, making deep carpet cleaning and pet hair pickup on all surfaces a cinch. The LED Headlights are a revelation, illuminating hidden dust bunnies and pet hair I would have otherwise missed. The XL dust cup capacity also means fewer interruptions, which is always a bonus when you’re in a cleaning flow.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Thorough deep carpet cleaning and powerful pet hair pickup on all surfaces.
– LIGHTWEIGHT VERSATILITY: Ultra-lightweight and converts into a handheld vacuum for versatile floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes specialized pet tools that capture embedded pet hair.
– LED HEADLIGHTS: Powerful lights on the handheld vacuum and nozzle reveal hidden debris and pet hair.

Pros:
– Highly versatile 2-in-1 design (stick and handheld)
– Excellent at picking up pet hair on various surfaces
– LED headlights illuminate hidden dirt
– Lightweight and easy to maneuver in tight spaces
Cons:
– It’s corded, limiting its range and requiring outlet changes.

Best for: Pet owners, homes with a mix of floor types, and those who need versatility for floor-to-ceiling cleaning, including stairs and cars.

Expert Opinion: The Shark Rocket Deluxe Pro is an outstanding stick vacuum that delivers robust power and impressive versatility. Its ability to switch to a handheld makes it an indispensable tool for targeted cleaning and managing pet hair effectively throughout the home.

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

Stepping up the game, the Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet feels like the Rolls-Royce of home vacuuming. Its 2-IN-1 POWERED LIFT-AWAY TECHNOLOGY means that even when I detach the canister to clean under low furniture, the brushroll keeps spinning, providing continuous deep cleaning. This is a crucial difference from standard lift-away models. For homes with serious pet hair challenges, the self-cleaning Pet Power Brush is a dream come true, making quick work of embedded fur on upholstery and stairs. Coupled with the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal and HEPA filter, this vacuum significantly improves air quality, which is essential for my family’s allergies. The LED Headlights and Advanced Swivel Steering further enhance its usability, making it a powerful contender for the best vacuum cleaner for home tackling comprehensive cleaning needs.

Key features that stand out:
– 2-IN-1 POWERED LIFT-AWAY TECHNOLOGY: Lift the pod away while the powered brushroll keeps spinning.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Works with a HEPA filter to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes a self-cleaning Pet Power Brush, designed to remove pet hair and ground-in dirt.
– LED HEADLIGHTS: Powerful lights on the nozzle reveal hidden debris and pet hair.
– MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Fingertip controls to switch from Hard Floor to Carpet mode.

Pros:
– Exceptional suction and deep cleaning power
– Powered Lift-Away offers superior versatility for hard-to-reach areas
– Outstanding for pet hair removal and allergy control
– LED headlights and advanced swivel steering improve cleaning efficiency
Cons:
– It’s heavier and larger than stick or compact models, which can be a drawback for some.

Best for: Larger homes with multiple floor types, significant pet hair, severe allergies, and those seeking premium cleaning performance and versatility.

Expert Opinion: The Shark Rotator TruePet is a powerhouse that leaves no dirt or pet hair behind. It’s a premium investment for comprehensive home cleaning, particularly for families with pets and allergy concerns who demand top-tier performance and advanced features.

7. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

The Eureka PowerSpeed struck me as a robust yet surprisingly easy-to-handle upright vacuum. At just 10 pounds, it defies its powerful performance, making it simple to navigate around furniture and up the stairs. Its strong suction across surfaces proved effective on everything from my plush area rugs to the smooth tile in the bathroom, thanks to the 960-watt motor. I especially appreciated the extra-large dust cup for fewer empties, which means I can clean more of my home without constant interruptions. The 5-Height Brush Roll Adjustment is a smart feature, allowing me to customize the cleaning for different floor types, ensuring optimal suction without damaging delicate surfaces. Plus, the onboard pet-ready attachments are super convenient for quick targeted cleanups.

Key features that stand out:
– Lightweight Yet Powerful: At just 10 pounds, delivers heavyweight cleaning performance.
– Strong Suction Across Surfaces: 960-watt motor powers consistent suction through multiple floor types.
– Extra-Large Dust Cup for Fewer Empties: 2.6-liter capacity keeps cleaning sessions uninterrupted.
– 5-Height Brush Roll Adjustment: Clean with precision on thick carpet or bare floors.
– Pet-Ready Attachments Onboard: Includes a Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, and dusting brush.

Pros:
– Good balance of lightweight design and strong suction power
– Extra-large dust cup minimizes interruptions
– Adjustable brush roll height for versatile floor cleaning
– Convenient onboard pet tools
Cons:
– Lacks advanced features like HEPA filtration or a true Lift-Away function found in more expensive models.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers needing a versatile and powerful upright vacuum for a variety of floor types, especially homes with pets.

Expert Opinion: The Eureka PowerSpeed offers excellent cleaning performance and practical features at an attractive price point. It’s a reliable choice for everyday home cleaning, providing strong suction and a large capacity, making it a great all-rounder for many households.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When searching for the best vacuum cleaner for home, understanding the nuances between models is key.

For pet owners, several vacuums stood out. The Bissell CleanView Swivel and Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro offer specialized pet tools and impressive hair pickup at different price points. However, the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet takes the crown for serious pet messes, with its self-cleaning pet power brush and robust suction.

If allergies are a major concern, the Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe and the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet are your best bets. Both feature Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with HEPA filters, ensuring dust and allergens are trapped, not released back into the air.

For those with a mix of hard floors and carpets, nearly all the reviewed vacuums perform well, but the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe and Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright excel due to their multi-surface brush rolls and adjustable settings. The Bissell CleanView models also impressed with their Scatter-Free Technology for hard floors.

When maneuverability and weight are priorities, the Eureka NEU10AE5 and Bissell CleanView Compact are champions, both weighing under 8 pounds. The Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro also offers excellent maneuverability and versatility as a stick vacuum that converts to a handheld. In contrast, the larger uprights like the Shark NV752 Rotator offer powerful cleaning but are heavier, requiring a bit more effort to move.

Finally, for extended cleaning sessions without interruption, the Eureka PowerSpeed’s extra-large 2.6-liter dust cup is a clear winner, followed closely by the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe’s 0.9-quart capacity.

Final Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Cleaning Partner

Choosing the best vacuum cleaner for home truly depends on your specific needs and priorities. After thoroughly evaluating these seven excellent options, here’s my breakdown of which vacuum stands out in different categories:

Overall Top Pick for Versatility & Performance: The Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright truly impressed me. Its combination of powerful suction, powered lift-away versatility, and exceptional pet hair and allergen filtration makes it a comprehensive solution for almost any household, especially larger ones with demanding cleaning needs.

Best Value for Pet Owners: If you have pets but are mindful of your budget, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum offers incredible performance for pet hair and general cleaning, backed by a great cause, without breaking the bank.

Best for Small Spaces & Quick Cleanups: The Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner shines for its featherlight design and strong suction in a compact form. It’s perfect for apartments, dorms, or as a convenient grab-and-go option.

Best for Floor-to-Ceiling Versatility: The Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum is a fantastic choice for those who need a lightweight vacuum that can transition effortlessly from floors to high-up dusting, stairs, and even car interiors.

No matter your home’s unique cleaning challenges, there’s a vacuum on this list that’s perfectly suited to make your life a little easier and your floors a lot cleaner.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: How often should I vacuum my home for optimal cleanliness?
A1: For most homes, vacuuming 1-2 times a week is sufficient. However, if you have pets, high-traffic areas, or suffer from allergies, vacuuming 2-3 times a week, or even daily in specific zones, with a best vacuum cleaner for home is highly recommended to maintain air quality and cleanliness.

Q2: What’s the main difference between bagged and bagless vacuums? Which is better for the best vacuum cleaner for home?
A2: Bagged vacuums collect dirt in a disposable bag, which is often better for allergy sufferers as it seals allergens away. Bagless vacuums collect dirt in a reusable dust cup, saving money on bags and allowing you to see how much dirt you’ve collected. Bagless models are more common today and are often considered the best vacuum cleaner for home for convenience, but if allergies are severe, a bagged model or a bagless with a superior filtration system (like HEPA) is preferable.

Q3: Is a HEPA filter really important for a vacuum cleaner for home?
A3: Yes, a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter is very important, especially if anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma. It’s designed to trap 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, including pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores. Many of the best vacuum cleaner for home models now include this feature, significantly improving indoor air quality.

Q4: How do I properly maintain my vacuum cleaner to extend its lifespan?
A4: Regular maintenance is crucial. This includes emptying the dust cup or changing the bag frequently, cleaning or replacing filters as recommended by the manufacturer (most washable filters need to be thoroughly air-dried for 24 hours), checking and clearing the brush roll for tangled hair or debris, and inspecting the hose for clogs. Proper maintenance ensures your best vacuum cleaner for home continues to perform efficiently.

Q5: What’s the best vacuum cleaner for home with primarily hardwood floors?
A5: For hardwood floors, you’ll want a vacuum with strong suction, soft brush rolls, or a brushroll shut-off feature to prevent scratches. Models with Scatter-Free Technology, like the Bissell CleanView series, are excellent at containing debris on hard surfaces. Stick vacuums like the Shark Rocket Deluxe Pro are also great due to their gentle approach and maneuverability.

Q6: Can I use an upright vacuum on stairs, or do I need a separate handheld unit?
A6: While some upright vacuums come with hose attachments for stairs, it can still be awkward. Models with “Lift-Away” functionality, like the Shark Navigator and Rotator, are fantastic for stairs as you can detach the canister and carry it while using the hose. Stick vacuums that convert to handhelds, such as the Shark Rocket Deluxe Pro, are also ideal for effortless stair cleaning.

Q7: How important is suction power when choosing the best vacuum cleaner for home?
A7: Suction power is very important, as it directly relates to how effectively a vacuum can pick up dirt, debris, and pet hair from various surfaces. While raw wattage isn’t the only indicator, strong suction ensures deep cleaning, especially on carpets and in crevices. Look for reviews that highlight effective suction on multiple floor types, as demonstrated by the best vacuum cleaner for home options we’ve reviewed.