The 7 Best Vacuum Cleaners on the Market Right Now

Looking for the perfect vacuum cleaner to tackle your home cleaning needs can feel like a daunting task. With the vast array of options and price ranges available today, it's challenging to pinpoint the ideal fit for your living space. Fret not, for we are here to lend a helping hand in simplifying your search.

Introducing our carefully curated list of top vacuum cleaners, designed to alleviate the confusion and uncertainty that often accompanies such a purchase. In this comprehensive vacuum-buying guide, we'll walk you through the essential details that truly matter: from different vacuum cleaner types to their weight, bagged versus bagless options, included accessories, and, of course, price.

Armed with this invaluable information, you can confidently make an informed decision, ensuring that your investment in this home cleaning appliance is both efficient and rewarding.

Types of Vacuums

There are quite a few different types of vacuums out on the market today, and knowing which one is the best for you will be determined by your needs.

• Upright Vacuums: Considered the traditional vacuum, uprights are generally what you think of when you think of a vacuum cleaner. They tend to have quite a bit of power, making them a great option for cleaning all types of flooring, and can collect debris directly either through a vacuum bag or a bagless canister.
• Canister Vacuums: Canister vacuums are basically an upright vacuum that has been broken into two parts — the handle and brush roller on one side, and the canister that collects the debris on the other. Canister vacuums are a great option for those who want a dependable, all-flooring home vacuum that can be slightly easier to maneuver than an upright.
• Stick Vacuums: If you have a smaller home — such as an apartment, townhome, or RV — or want a more lightweight option for quick clean-ups, then a stick vacuum is your pick. They can be found corded or cordless (meaning they run on a rechargeable battery) and some can even transition into a handheld vacuum.
• Handheld Vacuums: These small, usually battery-operated handheld vacuums are great for cleaning up quick messes and cleaning small areas like cars.
• Robot Vacuums: Robot vacuums are the best option for those who would prefer the vacuum do all the work on its own.

What to Consider Before Buying a Vacuum

When buying your next vacuum cleaner, there are a few specifications that you should narrow in on to make a well-informed decision:

• Price: With so many vacuum cleaner options available today, price should definitely be part of your decision. While a higher price will normally mean more bells and whistles, there are a lot of excellent vacuum options that will not break the bank, and we tried to be conscientious of that with this guide — all the vacuum cleaners in our guide are priced at $350 or less.
• Type: Is the product an upright, canister, stick, handheld, or robot vacuum?
• Weight: The lower the weight of the vacuum, the easier it is to push, lift, and maneuver around the home.
• Power: Is the vacuum corded or cordless? Are outlets easily accessible in areas you need to vacuum in your home?
• Floor Type: Does this vacuum work better on bare floors or carpeting, or can it handle both?
• Dirt Collection (Bagless or Bagged): Vacuums collect and trap the dirt they suck up either through a vacuum bag you change when it gets full, or a bagless canister you have to empty when it gets full.
• Filter Type: What type of filter does the vacuum have? Many vacuums today have a HEPA filter that traps and keeps allergens out of the air of your home.
• Included Accessories: What types of accessories the vacuum comes with — such as brushes, crevice tools, and others — can help you get to every hard-to-reach area.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at our picks for the best vacuum cleaners on the market.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Vacuum Cleaner

Now that we've helped you narrow down the field for your next vacuum cleaner, here are some tips on how to make sure it stays in tip-top shape for many years:

• Read Your User Manual — So many times people forget this simple step and it can make a big difference. Even if you think to yourself, "I know how to use a vacuum," the product manual can tell you all about your new vacuum and, most importantly, how to keep it clean and running smoothly.
• Keep the Bag or Bagless Canister Empty — Emptying the vacuum bag or bagless canister can be easily overlooked, and if there's too much debris already collected, the vacuum will not use its optimum suction power. Make sure to keep an eye on it and empty it frequently to keep your vacuum cleaner running well.
• Accurate Use of Attachments — Another bonus of reading the product manual is you'll learn about all the attachments your vacuum cleaner comes with and how to use them correctly. Those crevice tools or special brushes for upholstery can help make a huge difference in how easy it is to clean your home.
• Keep it Clean — Keeping your vacuum cleaner clean is a great way to ensure it continues to work efficiently for many years. Make sure to keep the body and hoses clean by wiping them down, and check for any clogs that may be blocking hoses or wands. And also check the main brush roll on the vacuum — many times, human and pet hair or long fibers can get wound around those and may need to be snipped out with scissors. And keep your filter clean by washing or replacing as necessary.