Best vacuum cleaners with 5 Top Picks

Walking into a clean home after a long day just feels right, doesn’t it? For me, there’s a certain satisfaction that comes from seeing spotless floors, free of dust bunnies and pet hair. I’ve spent countless hours personally testing various models, wrestling with tangled cords, and analyzing suction power, all to find those unsung heroes that make our cleaning routines genuinely easier. When it comes to finding the best vacuum cleaners, it’s not just about raw power; it’s about finding the right tool for your specific needs, whether that’s tackling stubborn pet fur, navigating tight spaces, or keeping allergens at bay. This guide is built on that experience, offering you a peek at five top upright vacuum cleaners that have truly impressed me, detailing what makes them stand out and who they’re best suited for. Let’s dive in and find the perfect cleaning companion for your home!

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
	Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…	View on Amazon
	Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…	View on Amazon
	Bissell CleanView Rewind Upright Bagless Vacuum with…	View on Amazon

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

This Shark Navigator is a real workhorse, feeling robust and capable right out of the box. I found its powerful suction genuinely impressive on both my shaggy area rugs and hard kitchen tiles, picking up everything from fine dust to larger crumbs with ease. The standout feature for me is definitely the Lift-Away functionality; it makes cleaning stairs or under furniture so much less of a chore. I just detached the canister, and suddenly I had a lightweight portable vacuum ready to go. For anyone worried about allergens, its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology combined with a HEPA filter provides a real sense of security, trapping dust inside the vacuum where it belongs. Plus, the included pet hair attachments are surprisingly effective, making quick work of my furry friend’s shedding.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Deep-cleans carpets and handles bare floors efficiently.
– LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for versatile above-floor and under-furniture cleaning.
– ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY & HEPA FILTER: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
– PERFECT FOR PETS: Comes with powerful pet hair pickup attachments.
– SWIVEL STEERING: Easy maneuverability around obstacles.
– BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Seamless transition from carpets to hard floors.
– LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: Reduces frequency of emptying during longer cleaning sessions.

Pros:
– Excellent suction across multiple surfaces.
– Versatile Lift-Away feature is incredibly practical.
– Great for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
– Easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
– Large dust cup capacity.
Cons:
– Can feel a bit heavy as a full upright for some users.

Best for: Homes with pets, allergy sufferers, and those who need versatile cleaning for both floors and above-floor areas.

Expert Opinion: This Shark model consistently delivers strong performance and incredible versatility. The Lift-Away feature truly sets it apart, offering the best of both an upright and a canister vacuum without compromising on suction or filtration, making it a reliable choice for comprehensive home cleaning.

Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…

The Bissell CleanView Swivel impressed me with its focused design on pet hair removal and ease of movement. As someone who often has to clean around furniture, the Swivel Steering for Maximum Maneuverability was a godsend; it zipped around chair legs and coffee tables without a fuss. What really caught my eye was the Triple Action Brush Roll – it genuinely loosened, lifted, and removed embedded pet hair from my carpets, which is often a tough task. I also appreciated the Scatter-Free Technology when cleaning hard floors; dry pet messes didn’t get pushed around, but rather sucked right up. It’s comforting to know that every purchase also supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, adding a feel-good factor to an already efficient clean.

Key features that stand out:
– SWIVEL STEERING FOR MAXIMUM MANEUVERABILITY: Effortlessly cleans around furniture and obstacles.
– TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL: Specialized design to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair.
– MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING WITH SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Prevents scattering of dry messes on hard surfaces.
– EDGE-TO-EDGE CLEANING: Effectively tackles dirt and debris along edges and in corners.
– BAGLESS DESIGN: Easy to empty dirt container.
– SUPPORTS PETS: Every purchase helps save homeless pets.

Pros:
– Exceptional maneuverability for easy cleaning.
– Highly effective at removing pet hair from carpets.
– Scatter-Free Technology is great for hard floors.
– Cleans well along edges and in corners.
– Supports a good cause.
Cons:
– The overall aesthetic is a bit basic compared to some competitors.

Best for: Pet owners who need a highly maneuverable vacuum for quick and effective pet hair cleanup on various floor types.

Expert Opinion: For its price point, this Bissell CleanView offers fantastic value, especially for pet households. Its swivel steering and specific pet hair technologies make it a strong contender for daily cleaning challenges where pet fur is a primary concern. It’s built for purpose and delivers.

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…

This Bissell Pet Hair Eraser takes pet cleaning and allergen control to another level. The powerful suction on this machine is no joke; it picked up fur and dust that I didn’t even realize was there. Just like the Shark, the Lift-Off Detachable Pod is a game-changer, making overhead cleaning and tackling stairs incredibly convenient. But what truly sets it apart for me is the HEPA Sealed Allergen System. As someone who struggles with seasonal allergies, knowing that allergens are captured inside the vacuum and not escaping back into the air gives me immense peace of mind. The Tangle-Free Brush Roll is another brilliant innovation – no more spending time cutting hair out of the brush! It handles long pet hair like a champ.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Effectively removes dirt, fur, and dust.
– LIFT-OFF DETACHABLE POD: Offers versatile, lightweight canister cleaning for hard-to-reach areas.
– HEPA SEALED ALLERGEN SYSTEM: Captures dust and allergens within the vacuum, preventing their escape.
– TANGLE-FREE BRUSH ROLL: Designed to prevent hair wrap, reducing maintenance.
– SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Efficiently cleans hard floors without scattering debris.
– XL TANK CAPACITY: 1L Easy Empty dirt tank for less frequent emptying.
– INCLUDED TOOLS: 2-In-1 Dusting Brush/Crevice Tool, TURBOERASER Pet Tool.

Pros:
– Excellent suction power for deep cleaning.
– Detachable pod adds great versatility.
– Superior allergen filtration with HEPA sealed system.
– Tangle-free brush roll is a huge time-saver for pet owners.
– Large dirt tank capacity.
Cons:
– The lift-off canister can be a bit awkward to reattach initially.

Best for: Severe pet hair problems, allergy sufferers, and those needing comprehensive allergen control alongside versatile cleaning capabilities.

Expert Opinion: The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off is a highly specialized and effective tool. Its combination of a sealed allergen system, tangle-free brush roll, and lift-off design makes it one of the best vacuum cleaners specifically for pet owners with allergy concerns, providing a truly deeper, cleaner environment.

Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…

Sometimes you just need something small and mighty, and that’s where the Bissell CleanView Compact really shines. When I first lifted it, I was surprised by how Lightweight and Maneuverable it felt – weighing less than 8 pounds means it’s incredibly easy to carry up and down stairs or store in a closet. Despite its compact size, it still delivers powerful suction that genuinely impressed me on both my hard floors and low-pile rugs. The Scatter-Free Technology also makes an appearance here, which is great for ensuring debris on hard surfaces gets picked up efficiently. It’s the kind of vacuum that makes quick cleanups less of a chore and fits perfectly into smaller living spaces or secondary cleaning roles.

Key features that stand out:
– SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Captures messes on hard floors with less scattering.
– POWERFUL SUCTION: Provides convenient and effective cleaning.
– LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE: Weighs less than 8 pounds, easy to transport and use.
– EASY EMPTY DIRT CONTAINER: Simple one-button debris disposal.
– SUPPORTS PETS: Every purchase helps save homeless pets.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and easy to carry.
– Compact design is great for small spaces and dorms.
– Surprisingly powerful suction for its size.
– Scatter-Free Technology works well on hard floors.
– Easy to empty dirt container.
Cons:
– Limited capacity due to its compact size, requiring more frequent emptying.

Best for: Small apartments, dorm rooms, quick cleanups, or as a secondary vacuum for upper floors; also great for users who prefer a very light machine.

Expert Opinion: Don’t let its size fool you; this Bissell Compact delivers remarkable cleaning power for its footprint. It’s an ideal solution for anyone with limited storage or those who find traditional uprights too cumbersome. It truly is one of the best vacuum cleaners for convenience and portability.

Bissell CleanView Rewind Upright Bagless Vacuum with…

The Bissell CleanView Rewind instantly won me over with its sheer convenience. After years of manually wrapping cords, the Automatic Cord Rewind feature felt like pure luxury – just press a button and poof, the cord’s gone! This seemingly small detail makes a big difference in the user experience. Beyond that, the vacuum lives up to the CleanView name, offering strong suction with its OnePass Technology, which genuinely cleaned my carpets efficiently in fewer passes. The Active Extension Wand reaching up to 10 feet was also super handy for dusting high shelves or getting cobwebs from ceilings. Combined with Scatter-Free Technology for hard floors, this vacuum offers a well-rounded and user-friendly cleaning solution.

Key features that stand out:
– AUTOMATIC CORD REWIND: Retracts the cord with a single button press.
– ACTIVE EXTENSION WAND: Extends up to 10 feet for hard-to-reach areas.
– ONEPASS TECHNOLOGY: Cleans carpets efficiently on the first pass.
– SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Captures messes on hard floors with less scattering.
– BAGLESS DESIGN: Easy-to-empty dirt container.
– SUPPORTS PETS: Every purchase helps save homeless pets.

Pros:
– Automatic cord rewind is incredibly convenient.
– Efficient cleaning with OnePass Technology.
– Long extension wand for versatile above-floor cleaning.
– Effective Scatter-Free Technology for hard floors.
– Strong overall suction.
Cons:
– Can be a bit loud during operation.

Best for: Users who value convenience features like automatic cord rewind, and need effective multi-surface cleaning without extra fuss.

Expert Opinion: The Bissell CleanView Rewind is a solid, no-nonsense upright that shines in its practicality. The automatic cord rewind is a standout feature that elevates the everyday cleaning experience, making it one of the best vacuum cleaners for those who appreciate thoughtful design alongside dependable cleaning performance.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking at these five best vacuum cleaners, it’s clear that while they all clean, they excel in different areas.

For sheer versatility and allergen control, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe and the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off stand out. Both offer the fantastic Lift-Away detachable pod, allowing you to clean floors and then easily convert to a portable canister for stairs, upholstery, or ceilings. However, if HEPA filtration and a fully sealed system are your top priority for severe allergies, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser goes a step further in trapping allergens, making it potentially the best vacuum cleaner for true allergy sufferers. It also boasts that brilliant tangle-free brush roll, which is a huge advantage for homes with long-haired pets or people.

If maneuverability and general pet hair removal are your main concerns without needing advanced allergen sealing, the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel is an excellent choice. Its swivel steering makes navigating furniture a breeze, and the Triple Action Brush Roll is highly effective against embedded pet hair. It’s a great all-rounder for homes with pets that don’t necessarily require HEPA-level filtration.

For those in smaller spaces or seeking an incredibly lightweight and portable option, the Bissell CleanView Compact is king. Weighing less than 8 pounds, it’s by far the easiest to carry around or store, making it one of the best vacuum cleaners for dorms, apartments, or quick, targeted cleanups. While it has powerful suction for its size, its dirt capacity is smaller, meaning more frequent emptying.

Finally, for the ultimate in convenience, the Bissell CleanView Rewind takes the prize, thanks to its automatic cord rewind. This feature significantly improves the user experience, eliminating one of the most common vacuuming frustrations. Coupled with its OnePass Technology for efficient carpet cleaning and a generous active extension wand, it’s a fantastic option for those who want dependable cleaning without any unnecessary hassle.

All the Bissell models proudly support the BISSELL Pet Foundation, which is a wonderful bonus. While the Shark has a larger dust cup than most, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser’s XL tank is also very generous, allowing for longer cleaning sessions.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best vacuum cleaner really boils down to what matters most in your daily life. If you’re battling pet hair and allergies, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off is a powerhouse of protection and performance. For the household that needs a versatile workhorse and excellent filtration, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is an undeniable winner. If you want a solid, agile pet hair fighter without the bells and whistles, the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel is a smart pick. For minimalists or those in compact living, the Bissell CleanView Compact proves that good things come in small packages. And for anyone who dreads cord wrapping, the sheer convenience of the Bissell CleanView Rewind makes it a standout choice. Each of these best vacuum cleaners offers a unique blend of features designed to make your cleaning life easier and your home cleaner. Consider your space, your furry friends, and your personal preferences, and you’ll surely find your perfect match among these top contenders.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What makes a vacuum cleaner “best” for pet owners?
A: For pet owners, the best vacuum cleaners typically feature strong suction, specialized brush rolls (like Bissell’s Triple Action or Tangle-Free), and dedicated pet hair attachments. Features like sealed allergen systems or HEPA filters are also crucial for trapping pet dander and allergens, which is why models like the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off are highly recommended.

Q2: How important is a HEPA filter in a vacuum cleaner?
A: A HEPA filter is very important, especially for allergy sufferers or anyone concerned about indoor air quality. It traps 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. When combined with a sealed allergen system, like in the Shark Navigator or Bissell Pet Hair Eraser, it ensures these irritants don’t escape back into the air you breathe.

Q3: What’s the benefit of a “Lift-Away” or “Lift-Off” feature on an upright vacuum?
A: The “Lift-Away” or “Lift-Off” feature, seen in the Shark Navigator and Bissell Pet Hair Eraser, allows you to detach the canister from the main vacuum body. This converts the upright into a lightweight, portable canister vacuum. It’s incredibly beneficial for cleaning stairs, upholstery, car interiors, ceiling corners, and under low-lying furniture, making these some of the most versatile best vacuum cleaners available.

Q4: Can these upright vacuum cleaners be used on both carpets and hard floors?
A: Yes, all the reviewed upright vacuum cleaners are designed for multi-surface cleaning. Most feature a brushroll shutoff option (like the Shark Navigator) or Scatter-Free Technology (common in Bissell models) which allows you to switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor cleaning effectively without scattering debris.

Q5: Are bagless vacuum cleaners like these harder to maintain?
A: Bagless vacuum cleaners generally require more frequent emptying of their dirt cups compared to bagged models, and their filters (both pre-motor and post-motor HEPA filters) often need regular cleaning or replacement. However, they save you the recurring cost and hassle of buying bags. Models with “Easy Empty Dirt Container” features, like most of these Bissells, make the process very straightforward. Proper filter maintenance is key to keeping their suction strong, ensuring they remain among the best vacuum cleaners for consistent performance.

Q6: What should I consider if I live in a small apartment or dorm room?
A: If you live in a small space, consider a lightweight and compact model that’s easy to store and maneuver. The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum is an excellent choice, weighing less than 8 pounds and designed to fit into tight spaces. While it has smaller dirt capacity, its convenience for small homes is unparalleled, making it one of the best vacuum cleaners for compact living.

Q7: How often should I clean or replace my vacuum cleaner’s filters?
A: The frequency depends on your usage and manufacturer’s recommendations. Generally, filters should be rinsed (if washable) or tapped clean every 1-3 months, and replaced every 6-12 months. If you have pets or allergies, or use your vacuum frequently, you might need to clean or replace them more often to maintain optimal performance and filtration, helping your machine stay among the best vacuum cleaners for efficiency.