Best vacuum for small apartment with carpet

I know the struggle. Living in a small apartment, especially one with cozy carpets, means you need a vacuum that’s not only powerful enough to tackle embedded dirt and pet hair but also compact and easy to store. I’ve personally navigated the maze of bulky uprights and flimsy stick vacs, searching for that sweet spot where deep cleaning meets small-space practicality. It’s not just about suction; it’s about maneuverability, storage, and whether it can truly get your carpets looking fresh without taking up half your closet. That’s why I’ve put together this hands-on guide, diving deep into some of the best vacuum for small apartment with carpet options available today, so you can find a reliable and efficient cleaning companion for your compact living space.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…	View on Amazon
	Vacmaster Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner 2 in 1…	View on Amazon
	Coolwill Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 4-in-1 Vacuum Cleaners…	View on Amazon
	Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…	View on Amazon
	Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner for Home Pet Hair,…	View on Amazon
	Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet…	View on Amazon
	Dirt Devil Simpli Stik Plus 3-in-1 Vacuum Cleaner,…	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…

This little Bissell upright is a surprisingly mighty cleaner, especially given its compact footprint. What really caught my eye is its Scatter-Free Technology, which is a godsend for cleaning hard floors before hitting the carpet – no more pushing debris around! It’s super lightweight, under 8 pounds, making it incredibly easy to carry up and down stairs or just from room to room in your small apartment. Don’t let the size fool you though; it packs a powerful suction punch, tackling pet hair and crumbs on carpets with impressive efficiency. Plus, knowing that every purchase saves pets through the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a nice feel-good factor to your cleaning routine. Emptying the dirt container is also a breeze with a simple button push, keeping your hands clean.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Lightweight and Maneuverable: Weighs less than 8 pounds, easy to transport.
– Scatter-Free Technology: Captures messes on hard floors effectively with less scatter.
– Powerful Suction: Convenient, powerful cleaning in one machine.
– Easy Empty Dirt Container: Dispose of debris with a push of a button.

Pros:
– Excellent maneuverability and portability due to its lightweight design.
– Strong suction performance for its size, especially on carpets.
– Supports a good cause with every purchase.

Cons:
– Its compact design might mean a smaller dust cup capacity compared to full-sized uprights.

Best for: Pet owners in small apartments who need a lightweight, powerful vacuum that’s easy to store and move.

Expert Opinion: This Bissell really hits the mark for small apartment living where space is a premium but you still need genuine carpet cleaning power. It’s a no-fuss machine that does exactly what it promises.

Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

The Eureka PowerSpeed is designed to be a workhorse, boasting an Upgraded Cyclone System that can handle everything from large debris to microscopic dust. I was particularly impressed by how it penetrates deep into the carpet to extract embedded dirt, which is crucial for apartment living where carpet often bears the brunt of daily foot traffic. Despite its powerful pickup, it remains surprisingly lightweight, making it less of a chore to move around. The 5 Height Settings are fantastic for homes with various floor types, letting you seamlessly switch from thick shag rugs to low-pile carpets and even hard floors without missing a beat. The included multiple accessories like the crevice tool and dusting brush are stored right on board, ensuring you’re always ready to tackle those tricky spots like upholstery or ceiling corners.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Upgraded Cyclone System: Handles various debris types, from large to microscopic.
– Powerful Pick-up: Penetrates deep into carpet to extract embedded dirt.
– 5 Height Settings: Versatile for different carpet heights and hard floors.
– Multiple Accessories Included: On-board storage for crevice, dusting, and upholstery tools.

Pros:
– Exceptional deep cleaning power for carpets.
– Versatile with multiple height settings and on-board tools.
– Effectively traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens.

Cons:
– Regular cleaning of the roller brush and belt is necessary to prevent clogs.

Best for: Apartment dwellers with a mix of carpet types, including thicker pile, who need strong suction and versatile cleaning tools.

Expert Opinion: This vacuum feels like a full-sized cleaner in a more manageable package for small spaces. The allergen trapping is a huge bonus, especially for pet owners or those with sensitivities.

Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…

This Eureka model really impressed me with its powerful all-floor suction, effortlessly lifting dirt and hair from both carpets and hard floors. Its 10.5” wide cleaning path means I can cover more ground in fewer passes, which is great for quicker cleaning sessions in a small apartment. What makes it incredibly convenient is the quick release handle for above floor cleaning – no more struggling to clean curtains or high shelves. Weighing in at just 7.7 pounds, it’s remarkably lightweight & easy to store, making it one of the most portable options I’ve tested. Maintenance is also a breeze thanks to its washable filter, saving you money and being more environmentally friendly. All the necessary tools, a crevice tool and dusting brush, are on board, ensuring they’re always within reach.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Powerful All Floor Suction: Extracts dirt and hair from both hard floors and carpets.
– Quick Release Handle for Above Floor Cleaning: Easily switch to clean upholstery and hard-to-reach areas.
– Lightweight & Easy Storage: Weighs only 7.7 pounds and has a compact design.
– Easy Maintenance & Environmental Friendly: Features a washable filter for no maintenance costs.

Pros:
– Excellent suction for both carpet and hard floors.
– Extremely lightweight and easy to carry and store.
– Tools are conveniently stored on board.

Cons:
– The 10.5” cleaning path is efficient but might require more passes in larger rooms.

Best for: Individuals looking for a lightweight, versatile, and easy-to-maintain upright vacuum for combined carpet and hard floor cleaning in a small apartment.

Expert Opinion: For sheer ease of use and maintenance in a small living space, this Eureka is a fantastic choice. The ability to quickly detach the handle for above-floor cleaning is a real time-saver.

Vacmaster Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner 2 in 1…

The Vacmaster Corded Stick Vacuum truly shines in its versatility, easily transforming from a stick vacuum to a handheld unit. This 2-in-1 design, complete with attachments like a floor nozzle and crevice tool, makes it perfect for tackling every corner of a small apartment, from carpets to tight crevices. I was pleasantly surprised by its 14Kpa Power Suction, providing continuous, robust cleaning power that’s usually found in heavier models. The adjustable telescopic tube is a thoughtful addition, allowing comfortable cleaning for users of different heights and reaching those awkward high spots without bending. At just 3.7 lbs, it’s super lightweight & portable, making it a dream to carry and store. The efficient filtration system with a washable filter also means fewer replacements and cleaner air.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Versatile Cleaning: 2-in-1 stick to handheld functionality with various attachments.
– 14Kpa Power Suction & Adjustable Tube: Strong continuous suction and extendable wand.
– 3.7 Lbs Lightweight & Portable: Super lightweight design for easy carrying and storage.
– Capitalize Efficiency Filtration: Washable filter captures 85% of particles, improving air quality.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and highly maneuverable.
– Powerful suction for a stick vacuum, effective on carpets.
– Convenient 2-in-1 design for whole-home cleaning.

Cons:
– Being corded means you’re tied to an outlet, which might be a slight inconvenience.

Best for: Anyone in a small apartment needing a highly versatile, super lightweight vacuum that can switch between floor and handheld cleaning seamlessly, with good suction for carpets.

Expert Opinion: This vacuum is ideal for those who prioritize portability and the ability to clean multiple surfaces with one device. The suction is impressive for its weight class, making it a great contender for carpeted apartments.

Coolwill Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 4-in-1 Vacuum Cleaners…

The Coolwill Cordless Vacuum is a standout for its 6-in-1 Versatility – it easily converts between handheld and extended modes, allowing you to clean every nook and cranny. I was particularly impressed by its Powerful Suction Performance of 12KPa from a 160W motor, which made short work of pet hair and dust on low-pile carpets and hard floors alike. The 40-Minute Runtime from its detachable lithium-ion battery is excellent, providing ample time for a thorough cleaning of most small apartments. The Ergonomic Design includes an adjustable telescopic tube, so you don’t have to bend down, and a floor brush with 180-degree rotating joints and a built-in headlight – a fantastic feature for cleaning under furniture and in dimly lit areas. Its Advanced 4-Stage Sealed Filtration system ensures cleaner exhaust air, capturing tiny particles and minimizing secondary pollution.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– 6-in-1 Versatility: Detachable tools and flexible design for all cleaning needs.
– Powerful Suction Performance: 12KPa suction tackles pet hair, dust, and debris.
– 40-Minute Runtime: Long battery life for continuous cleaning.
– Ergonomic Design: Adjustable tube, 180-degree rotating joint, and headlight for comfortable, thorough cleaning.

Pros:
– Cordless freedom with a substantial runtime.
– Excellent maneuverability with a rotating head and headlight.
– Strong suction effective on low-pile carpets and hard floors.

Cons:
– May not be ideal for very thick or high-pile carpets.

Best for: Apartment dwellers who crave cordless convenience, appreciate versatile tools, and need powerful suction for low-pile carpets and hard floors, especially those with pets.

Expert Opinion: This cordless option offers fantastic flexibility and user-friendly features like the headlight. For a small apartment with mostly low-pile carpets, it’s a strong, modern choice that provides a very pleasant cleaning experience.

Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…

This Amazon Basics upright is designed for simplicity and effectiveness. Its easy maneuverability is a major plus for small apartments; at only 8.4 lbs and with a 25-ft power cord, it allows for easy movement across rooms without constant re-plugging. It’s a truly versatile cleaning tool, coming with upholstery and crevice tools that are perfect for tackling various surfaces and tight spots. I appreciate the large capacity dust cup (1.7L), which means I can clean longer without having to constantly stop and empty it – a common frustration with smaller vacuums. When it is time to empty, a quick-release button makes disposal super easy. Plus, the washable filter is a practical touch, ensuring long-lasting performance and simple maintenance without extra costs.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Easy Maneuverability: Lightweight at 8.4 lbs and a long 25-ft power cord.
– Versatile Cleaning: Includes upholstery and crevice tools for various surfaces.
– Large Capacity Dust Cup: 1.7L capacity allows for longer cleaning sessions.
– Washable Filter: Easy to maintain for long-lasting performance.

Pros:
– Good balance of power and maneuverability for its size.
– Large dust cup reduces emptying frequency.
– Simple and effective design, ideal for basic cleaning needs.

Cons:
– While versatile, it might lack some of the advanced features of pricier models.

Best for: Those on a budget in small apartments who need a straightforward, reliable upright vacuum for both carpets and hard floors, without too many bells and whistles.

Expert Opinion: For a no-frills, dependable cleaning solution, the Amazon Basics upright is a solid choice. It handles carpeted areas well and the long cord means fewer interruptions.

Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

This iteration of the Eureka PowerSpeed truly lives up to its name, offering Lightweight Yet Powerful performance. At just 10 pounds, it’s a breeze to carry up stairs and maneuver around furniture in a compact apartment, yet it delivers heavyweight cleaning. The 960-watt motor provides Strong Suction Across Surfaces, from hardwood to tile to deep carpets, ensuring consistent performance. One of its standout features is the Extra-Large Dust Cup with a 2.6-liter capacity, significantly reducing the frequency of emptying. I particularly liked the 5-Height Brush Roll Adjustment, allowing precise cleaning on different carpet thicknesses or bare floors. And for pet owners, the Pet-Ready Attachments Onboard – including a Pet Turbo Brush – are invaluable for tackling stubborn pet hair.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Lightweight Yet Powerful: Delivers strong cleaning at just 10 pounds.
– Strong Suction Across Surfaces: 960-watt motor for consistent power on all floor types.
– Extra-Large Dust Cup for Fewer Empties: 2.6-liter capacity.
– 5-Height Brush Roll Adjustment: Precision cleaning for various carpet heights and bare floors.

Pros:
– Exceptional suction power for its weight.
– Large dust cup capacity is highly convenient.
– Dedicated pet attachments are a huge plus for pet owners.

Cons:
– The upright design, while efficient, may be slightly less agile than a stick vacuum in very tight corners.

Best for: Small apartment dwellers with pets and varied floor types, including medium to high-pile carpets, who need strong suction and large dust capacity without the bulk.

Expert Opinion: If pet hair on carpets is your main nemesis in a small apartment, this Eureka PowerSpeed is a strong contender. The combination of power, large dust cup, and pet tools makes it incredibly effective.

Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner for Home Pet Hair,…

This Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum is a powerhouse in a lightweight frame, offering Powerful Suction with its 350W motor that effortlessly pulls embedded dust, debris, and pet hair from carpets and hard floors. I was really impressed by its Lightweight & Effortless design; at only 4 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to handle without fatigue, and the extended cord means you’re not constantly searching for new outlets. Its Flexible & No Dead Corners design, featuring a 180° rotating floor brush, ensures you can reach under furniture and into tight spaces with ease. The Effortless Storage is another huge benefit for small apartments; it has a quick-release dust cup and a tool-free quick-detach body design that allows for convenient upright storage and easy maintenance.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Powerful Suction: 350W motor and motorized brush for deep cleaning carpets.
– Lightweight & Effortless: Only 4 lbs with an extended cord for full-room coverage.
– Flexible & No Dead Corners: 180° rotating floor brush and 3-in-1 design for versatile cleaning.
– Effortless Storage: Quick-release dust cup and upright storage.

Pros:
– Strong continuous suction power, especially for pet hair on low-pile carpets.
– Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.
– Excellent for reaching tight spots and under furniture.

Cons:
– Being corded, it requires an accessible power outlet.

Best for: Pet owners in small apartments seeking a very lightweight, powerful corded stick vacuum that’s excellent for tackling pet hair on low-pile carpets and hard floors with maximum maneuverability.

Expert Opinion: This stick vacuum punches above its weight. The swivel steering combined with its powerful motor makes cleaning carpets in a small, crowded apartment surprisingly simple and effective.

Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet…

The Shark Rocket Ultra-Light is a true champion of versatility for small spaces. Weighing under 9 lbs., this ultra-lightweight corded stick vacuum converts to a handheld vacuum for comprehensive floor-to-ceiling cleaning. It delivers ultra-powerful, corded cleaning on both carpets and hard floors, ensuring consistent suction without battery fade. I love the fingertip controls that make it super easy to switch between surface types, which is essential when you have a mix of carpeted and hard floors. Swivel Steering is fantastic for navigating around furniture and in tight apartment spaces. For convenient storage, you can hang the hand vacuum from the hook on the bottom of the wand. Plus, it comes with an upholstery tool, anti-allergen dust brush, and crevice tool for thorough cleaning.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Ultra-Lightweight & Versatile: Under 9 lbs, converts to handheld for floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
– Ultra-Powerful, Corded Cleaning: Consistent suction on carpets and hard floors.
– Fingertip Controls & Swivel Steering: Easy surface switching and excellent maneuverability.
– Convenient Storage: Hand vacuum hangs from wand hook for compact storage.

Pros:
– Exceptional versatility and lightweight design.
– Strong, consistent corded power means no battery anxiety.
– Excellent maneuverability and easy-to-use controls.

Cons:
– The dust cup capacity, while easy to empty, may be smaller than traditional uprights.

Best for: Apartment dwellers who need a powerful, versatile, and highly maneuverable vacuum that transitions effortlessly from stick to handheld, ideal for mixed floor types and tight spaces.

Expert Opinion: The Shark Rocket is a go-to for apartment living. Its ability to convert and its strong, reliable corded power make it a robust solution for deep carpet cleaning while remaining incredibly agile.

Dirt Devil Simpli Stik Plus 3-in-1 Vacuum Cleaner,…

The Dirt Devil Simpli Stik Plus is the epitome of convenience for small spaces. It’s a lightweight, easy-to-use vacuum cleaner that truly takes the chore out of cleaning. Its 3-in-1 design is incredibly practical: it effortlessly transforms into a hand vac mode to quickly clean up messes on furniture, counters, or upholstery, making it a truly versatile tool for a compact apartment. I appreciate the rinsable filter, which is super easy to maintain and eliminates the need for frequent replacements. This Dirt Devil vacuum is designed to be perfect for small spaces, being light, compact, and highly versatile. It’s an ideal choice for dorms, apartments, and other compact living areas, cleaning up and storing away with minimal fuss.

Key features that stand out (Bold):
– Lightweight, Easy-to-Use: Simplifies cleaning whenever and wherever needed.
– Hand Vac Mode: Easily transforms into a handheld for quick spot cleaning.
– Rinsable Filter: Reusable and easy to maintain.
– Perfect for Small Spaces: Light, compact, and versatile for easy storage and cleaning.

Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and highly portable.
– Excellent for quick clean-ups and small messes.
– Very budget-friendly and easy to maintain.

Cons:
– Its suction power might not be sufficient for very deep carpet cleaning or heavy pet hair.

Best for: Students or individuals in very small apartments or dorms looking for a basic, highly portable, and affordable vacuum for light carpet cleaning and quick clean-ups.

Expert Opinion: This is your grab-and-go solution for everyday tidiness in a truly small living space. It’s not meant for industrial-level cleaning, but for keeping a small, carpeted apartment neat, it’s fantastic.

Comparison Insights

When choosing the best vacuum for small apartment with carpet, it really boils down to your specific needs and priorities.

If deep carpet cleaning and pet hair removal are at the top of your list, the Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright (2.6L dust cup) and the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light are standout choices. They both offer robust suction for carpets, with the Eureka having a slightly larger dust capacity and pet-specific attachments, while the Shark excels in its ultra-light design and corded consistency. The Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright (Upgraded Cyclone System) also offers impressive deep carpet penetration, great for thorough cleaning.

For those who prioritize extreme lightness and maneuverability, the Vacmaster Corded Stick (3.7 lbs) and the Eureka Corded Stick (4 lbs) are fantastic options. They’re incredibly easy to whip around furniture and store, perfect for navigating tight apartment layouts. The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright also offers excellent lightweight portability in an upright form factor.

If cordless convenience is a must-have, the Coolwill Cordless Vacuum Cleaner offers a great balance of suction power, a decent runtime, and thoughtful features like a headlight, making it perfect for quick, hassle-free cleaning. Just remember that cordless models generally have slightly less raw power than their corded counterparts.

For budget-conscious shoppers who still need reliable performance, the Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner and the Dirt Devil Simpli Stik Plus are excellent value propositions. The Amazon Basics offers a larger dust cup and good all-around performance, while the Dirt Devil is unbeatable for sheer portability and quick clean-ups in very small spaces.

Finally, for versatility across multiple surfaces (carpets and hard floors), the Eureka NEU10AE5 Upright and the Shark Rocket are both great. They transition smoothly, often with easy-to-use controls, making them ideal for apartments with mixed flooring.

Final Verdict

Finding the best vacuum for small apartment with carpet is a personal quest, but after diving deep into these options, a few patterns emerge to guide your choice.

If you’re a pet parent with low to medium-pile carpets and need serious suction without the bulk, the Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright (2.6L dust cup) or the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light are your champions. Their robust motors and specialized tools will make quick work of fur.

For the minimalist who values ultimate portability and swift, agile cleaning in a tiny space, the Vacmaster Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner stands out. It’s unbelievably light, yet surprisingly powerful for its size, perfect for whipping around quickly.

If you crave cord-free freedom and features like a handy headlight for under-furniture cleaning, the Coolwill Cordless Vacuum Cleaner offers a very compelling package for small apartments with mixed flooring and low-pile carpets.

For those who just need a dependable, easy-to-use vacuum on a budget that tackles both carpets and hard floors without fuss, the Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is a fantastic all-rounder.

Ultimately, reflect on your apartment’s specific needs – how much carpet do you have? Do you have pets? How tight are your spaces? There’s a perfect compact vacuum out there waiting for you!

FAQ Section

Q1: What features should I prioritize when buying the best vacuum for small apartment with carpet?
A1: For a small apartment with carpet, prioritize powerful suction (to clean embedded dirt), lightweight design (for easy maneuverability and storage), compact size (to fit in small spaces), and versatility (if you have hard floors too). Look for models with attachments for crevices and upholstery.

Q2: Is a stick vacuum or an upright vacuum better for a small apartment with carpet?
A2: Both have their pros! Stick vacuums are generally lighter and more compact, making them easier to store and maneuver in tight spaces. Many convert to handhelds for extra versatility. Upright vacuums, even compact ones, often offer stronger suction and larger dust cups, making them more effective for deep carpet cleaning, especially if you have pets. Your choice depends on how much deep cleaning your carpet needs versus how much you prioritize extreme portability.

Q3: How important is a washable filter for a small apartment vacuum?
A3: A washable filter is highly beneficial! It saves you money on replacement filters, is more environmentally friendly, and helps maintain consistent suction power over time. For a small apartment, anything that reduces recurring costs and hassle is a plus.

Q4: Can cordless vacuums effectively clean carpets in a small apartment?
A4: Yes, many modern cordless vacuums, like the Coolwill model reviewed, offer impressive suction power suitable for low-pile carpets and everyday messes. They excel in convenience and maneuverability without being tied to an outlet. However, for very thick carpets or deep-seated dirt, a powerful corded upright or stick vacuum might still offer superior performance.

Q5: My apartment has pets. Which of these vacuums would be best for pet hair on carpets?
A5: For pet hair on carpets, focus on vacuums with strong suction and often a motorized brush roll. The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright (2.6L dust cup) with its Pet Turbo Brush and the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light are excellent choices. The Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner also has powerful suction ideal for pet hair on low-pile carpets.

Q6: How can I maximize the lifespan of my vacuum cleaner for small apartment with carpet?
A6: To maximize lifespan, regularly empty the dust cup and clean/replace filters as recommended. For models with brush rolls, remove tangled hair and debris frequently. Store your vacuum in a dry, safe place to prevent damage. Proper maintenance ensures your best vacuum for small apartment with carpet continues to perform optimally.