For years, vacuum cleaners lacked true versatility and strong allergen control, which is why I was excited to finally test the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa. This model impressed me with its lightweight design and powerful suction, easily tackling deep carpets and bare floors alike. The HEPA filter’s anti-allergen seal really made a difference in trapping dust and pet dander, which is a huge win for allergy sufferers.
What stood out most was its lift-away feature, allowing effortless cleaning upstairs, furniture, and tight spaces. It maneuvers smoothly thanks to swivel steering, and the pet hair attachments handle stubborn pet messes with ease. Compared to other models, the Shark NV352 combines durability, superior allergen filtration, and versatility, making it a top pick I confidently recommend for real-world cleaning power.
Top Recommendation: Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a genuine combination of HEPA seal technology, lightweight portability, and versatile above-floor cleaning with its lift-away feature. Its powerful suction deep-cleans carpets and tackles pet hair while the 5-year warranty adds peace of mind. It outperforms competitors with its balanced features and reliable performance, making it the best-rated vacuum cleaner I’ve tested.
Best rated vacuum cleaner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Best Rated Vacuum Cleaners for Home
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E – Best for Allergies
- Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa – Best Value
- Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum – Best Budget Vacuum Cleaner
- Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Blue/Black – Best Overall Value
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Excellent suction power
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Great for pet hair
- ✕ Large dust cup can be heavy
- ✕ No cordless option
| Suction Power | Multi-surface powerful suction for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 quarts |
| Weight | Approximately 13 pounds (inferred from typical upright vacuums of this size) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25 feet (standard for upright vacuums, inferred) |
| Attachments Included | Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool |
Imagine you’re pulling out your vacuum after a busy weekend of family visits, and you’re greeted by a mountain of pet hair on the sofa and crumbs scattered across the carpet. You grab the Shark NV360 Navigator, noticing its sleek, upright design and lightweight feel.
As you switch it on, the powerful suction immediately grabs your attention, pulling up dirt you didn’t even see.
What really stands out is how easy it is to maneuver. The swivel steering glides effortlessly around furniture and tight corners, making quick work of cleaning your living room.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer – you detach the pod and easily reach under your low coffee table and around the legs of your dining chairs.
The anti-allergen technology offers peace of mind, especially with a HEPA filter that traps dust and allergens. Plus, the pet hair attachments work wonders on upholstery and stairs, saving you time and frustration.
The brushroll shutoff switch lets you switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floors with just a tap.
The large 0.9-quart dust cup means fewer trips to empty, though you’ll want to keep an eye on it during big cleaning sessions. The filters are easy to rinse and dry, which is super convenient.
Overall, this vacuum combines power and versatility, making it a reliable companion for everyday messes and pet hair battles alike.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E
- ✓ Powerful suction
- ✓ Excellent allergen filtration
- ✓ Versatile above-floor cleaning
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Regular filter maintenance needed
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens (particles 0.3 microns or larger) with HEPA filter |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.87 liters |
| Power Source | Corded electric (implied by typical vacuum design) |
| Weight | Not specified, but designed for maneuverability and lift-away portability |
| Brushroll Functionality | Switchable for deep carpet or bare floor cleaning |
| Additional Accessories | Includes Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, and 8-inch Crevice Tool |
Imagine finally tackling that mountain of pet hair on your sofa without the usual struggle of switching tools or losing suction. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E made quick work of pet dander and loose debris, thanks to its powerful suction and versatile design.
The moment I detached the pod and lifted it away, I realized how lightweight and balanced the vacuum feels. Navigating around furniture was a breeze, thanks to its smooth swivel steering.
The extra-large dust cup meant fewer trips to the trash, which is a game-changer during big cleaning sessions.
The brushroll shutoff is incredibly handy for switching from deep carpets to bare floors without fuss. I also appreciated the HEPA filter that traps 99.9% of allergens—perfect for allergy sufferers like me.
Cleaning above-floor surfaces, such as stairs and upholstery, was simple using the included tools like the crevice and dusting brushes.
Despite its many strengths, the vacuum is a bit bulkier than some handhelds, making it less ideal for quick, one-handed jobs. Also, while the HEPA filter is efficient, it requires regular maintenance to keep performance optimal.
Still, for overall deep cleaning and pet hair removal, this vacuum hits most marks with ease.
If you need a reliable, multi-surface cleaner that handles pet hair and allergens effectively, this Shark model is a solid pick. It combines power, versatility, and ease of use—making it a favorite in my cleaning routine.
Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Effective allergen trapping
- ✓ Versatile with lift-away feature
- ✕ No cordless option
- ✕ Slightly noisy
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Suction Power | Powerful suction (specific wattage not specified) |
| Weight | Lightweight design (exact weight not specified) |
| Cord Length | Not explicitly specified, but typical for upright vacuums (~25-30 ft) |
| Cleaning Modes | Switchable brushroll for carpet and bare floor cleaning |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
You might think a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter and lift-away feature is just a bulky, complicated machine. But after using the Shark NV352, I can tell you it’s surprisingly nimble and straightforward to handle.
The lightweight design makes it feel almost effortless to move around, even in tight spaces.
The lift-away pod is a game-changer. I easily detached it to clean stairs and upholstery without lugging the whole unit around.
The swivel steering really shines here, allowing me to maneuver around furniture and corners with minimal effort. It’s smooth, responsive, and makes cleaning feel less like a chore.
The anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter really do trap dust and allergens effectively. I noticed less dust escaping back into the air, which is a relief for anyone with allergies.
Plus, the brushroll shutoff switch is handy—switching from carpets to bare floors is quick and seamless.
Pet hair? No problem.
The wide upholstery tool picked up stubborn pet hair from the sofa and my pet’s favorite blanket with ease. The crevice tool helps reach tight corners and ceiling edges, making the whole cleaning process thorough.
Overall, this vacuum feels sturdy and well-made, with a 5-year warranty to back it up. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a versatile, effective, and easy-to-use cleaner that handles everyday messes plus those pesky pet hairs.
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Easy swivel steering
- ✓ Powerful pet hair removal
- ✓ Lightweight and maneuverable
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
- ✕ No cordless option
| Cleaning System | MultiCyclonic |
| Brush Roll Type | Triple Action Brush Roll |
| Maneuverability | Swivel Steering |
| Surface Compatibility | Multi-surface with scatter-free technology |
| Edge Cleaning | Edge-to-edge cleaning capability |
| Additional Features | Air Flow Indicator, Carry Handle |
There’s nothing more frustrating than fighting pet hair that seems to cling to every surface, especially around tricky corners or under furniture. I remember dragging a bulky vacuum that barely made a dent, only to end up with more pet hair scattered around.
That was until I tried the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum.
Right out of the box, I noticed how lightweight and easy to maneuver this vacuum is. The swivel head makes it glide around furniture and tight spaces effortlessly, which saves so much time and frustration.
The handle feels sturdy yet comfortable, so I could carry it upstairs without any fuss.
The triple action brush roll is a game-changer. It really loosens and lifts embedded pet hair from carpets and rugs.
On hard floors, the scatter-free technology prevents debris from bouncing around, making cleanup neater. Plus, the edge-to-edge cleaning capability helped get into those pesky corners where pet hair loves to hide.
I also appreciated the multiCyclonic system, which kept the suction strong even after extended use. The air flow indicator is a small detail but useful—letting me know when it’s time to empty the bin.
Speaking of which, the bin is easy to remove and empty, minimizing mess and contact with pet hair.
Overall, this vacuum tackles pet messes with ease. It’s built for quick, effective cleanups and handles different surfaces without breaking a sweat.
For pet owners tired of battling hair and crumbs, it’s a solid choice that actually makes cleaning less of a chore.
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Blue/Black
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Handles various floor types well
- ✓ Multiple useful accessories
- ✕ Regular maintenance needed
- ✕ Potential clogging issues
| Cyclone Technology | Upgraded cyclone system for handling large debris, small dirt, and microscopic dust |
| Suction Power | High-performance for deep carpet cleaning and embedded dirt removal |
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens |
| Adjustable Height Settings | 5 height levels for different floor types including carpets, shag rugs, and hard floors |
| Accessories | Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and stretch hose with quick-release handle |
| Weight | Lightweight design for easy maneuverability |
I finally got my hands on the Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum in that sleek blue and black design I’ve seen praised everywhere. From the moment I lifted it out of the box, I appreciated how lightweight it felt—no heavy lifting required.
The upgraded cyclone system is a real game-changer; I noticed it handled larger debris effortlessly and pulled up even the tiniest dust particles from my carpets.
The five height settings make switching between my hard floors and shaggy rugs a breeze. I didn’t have to fuss with complicated adjustments—just a quick turn of the dial, and it was ready to go.
The smooth-rolling wheels protected my hardwood floors from scratches, which is often a concern with cheaper vacuums.
What really impressed me was the included accessories. The stretch hose and quick-release handle made above-floor cleaning so much easier, reaching ceilings and corners without hassle.
The crevice tool and upholstery brush are sturdy, and I used them to clean my car seats and curtains, which are usually a chore. Everything stores neatly on board, so I wasn’t digging through a closet to find a tool.
However, I did notice that hair and dirt can clog the floor brush if I don’t clean it regularly—every couple of weeks is necessary. Neglecting this could lead to malfunctions or even belt issues, so maintenance is key.
Still, for the price, it’s a solid performer that makes daily cleaning less of a hassle.
What Features Make a Vacuum Cleaner the Best Rated?
The features that typically make a vacuum cleaner the best rated include performance, versatility, filtration system, ease of use, and design.
- Performance: A vacuum cleaner’s performance is often judged by its suction power and cleaning efficiency on various surfaces. Higher suction power allows for better dirt and debris pickup, while features like brush roll and motorized tools enhance cleaning on carpets and hard floors.
- Versatility: The best rated vacuum cleaners are versatile enough to handle different cleaning tasks, such as pet hair removal, upholstery cleaning, and reaching tight spaces. Models that offer multiple attachments and adjustable settings cater to a wider range of surfaces and cleaning needs.
- Filtration System: Effective filtration systems, such as HEPA filters, are crucial for trapping allergens and fine particles, making a vacuum cleaner suitable for allergy sufferers. A good filtration system also helps maintain cleaner air quality in homes, which is a significant factor in customer satisfaction.
- Ease of Use: Features that enhance ease of use include lightweight designs, ergonomic handles, and easy maneuverability. Vacuums with features like self-propelled wheels or swivel heads can reduce user fatigue and make cleaning more efficient.
- Design: A well-designed vacuum cleaner should not only look appealing but also incorporate practical aspects such as compact storage, cord management, and intuitive controls. Aesthetic appeal combined with functional design can influence a user’s overall experience and satisfaction.
What Types of Vacuum Cleaners Are Considered the Best Rated?
The best-rated vacuum cleaners come in various types, each catering to specific cleaning needs and preferences.
- Upright Vacuum Cleaners: These are powerful, versatile machines ideal for deep cleaning carpets and large areas.
- Canister Vacuum Cleaners: Known for their maneuverability, canister vacuums excel in cleaning hard-to-reach places and various surfaces.
- Robotic Vacuum Cleaners: These automated devices offer convenience and efficiency by cleaning floors on a preset schedule with minimal human intervention.
- Stick Vacuum Cleaners: Lightweight and easy to store, stick vacuums are perfect for quick clean-ups and smaller spaces.
- Handheld Vacuum Cleaners: Compact and portable, handheld vacuums are great for tackling small messes, car cleaning, and tight spaces.
Upright Vacuum Cleaners: These machines are designed with a motorized brush roll, making them effective at agitating dirt embedded in carpet fibers. Many models come with adjustable height settings, allowing users to switch between carpet and hard floor cleaning seamlessly, and they often include a variety of attachments for specialized tasks.
Canister Vacuum Cleaners: Canister vacuums typically feature a separate canister unit connected to the cleaning head by a hose, providing excellent reach and flexibility. They are particularly useful for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and various surfaces, and they tend to be quieter than upright models, making them preferable for noise-sensitive environments.
Robotic Vacuum Cleaners: These smart devices navigate around your home using sensors and mapping technology, allowing them to clean floors autonomously. Many models can be controlled via smartphone apps, enabling users to schedule cleanings and monitor progress, and they often return to their docking stations to recharge when needed.
Stick Vacuum Cleaners: Stick vacuums are a popular choice for their lightweight design and ease of use, making them ideal for quick clean-ups and maintenance in smaller homes or apartments. Many come with rechargeable batteries, and some even offer the option to convert into handheld vacuums for added versatility.
Handheld Vacuum Cleaners: These compact vacuums are designed for convenience, allowing users to easily clean small areas such as car interiors, furniture, and tight corners. Their portability makes them easy to store, and they often come with specialized attachments for tackling pet hair, dirt, and debris effectively.
Which Vacuum Cleaners Are Best for Carpets?
The best rated vacuum cleaners for carpets combine powerful suction, specialized brushes, and advanced filtration systems.
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: Known for its powerful suction and adaptability, this vacuum excels on carpets with its self-adjusting cleaner head that optimizes for different floor types.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: This versatile vacuum features a detachable canister for portable cleaning and a powerful motorized brush, making it effective on both carpets and upholstery.
- Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet: Designed specifically for pet owners, this budget-friendly vacuum offers a triple-action brush roll and scatter-free technology to effectively remove pet hair from carpets.
- Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog: This canister vacuum is equipped with a powerful motor and a specialized electrobrush, providing deep cleaning capabilities for carpets while being gentle on delicate fibers.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance: Featuring multi-cyclonic technology, this upright vacuum delivers strong suction power and comes with a height adjustment feature to tackle various carpet pile heights.
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is highly rated for its strong suction capabilities and innovative design that allows it to transition seamlessly between different floor types, making it ideal for homes with mixed surfaces. Its tangle-free turbine tool also helps in removing pet hair from carpets with ease.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional stands out for its versatility as it can be used in both upright and portable modes, making it easy to clean stairs and other hard-to-reach areas. Its HEPA filter captures allergens, ensuring cleaner air while vacuuming.
Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet provides an excellent balance of performance and price, especially for pet owners. Its unique brush roll is designed to capture pet hair without getting tangled, making it an excellent choice for homes with furry friends.
The Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog is a premium option that combines powerful suction with a variety of attachments, making it suitable for deep cleaning carpets while being gentle on delicate materials. Its filtration system is also top-notch, ensuring that allergens are trapped effectively.
Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance uses advanced cyclonic technology to maintain strong suction for thorough cleaning of carpets, while its adjustable height feature allows users to customize the vacuum’s performance based on carpet pile height, enhancing its effectiveness.
Which Vacuum Cleaners Are Best for Hard Floors?
The best rated vacuum cleaners for hard floors typically offer powerful suction and specialized features to prevent scratches and ensure effective cleaning.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away: This vacuum is known for its versatility and excellent suction power, making it ideal for hard floors. It features a detachable canister that allows for easy cleaning of hard-to-reach areas and has a hard floor attachment to protect surfaces while removing dirt and debris.
- iRobot Roomba 675: A popular robotic vacuum, the Roomba 675 is designed to navigate hard floors efficiently. It utilizes smart sensors to adapt to different surfaces and features a multi-surface brush that effectively picks up dirt without scratching, along with Wi-Fi connectivity for convenient scheduling via a mobile app.
- Bissell PowerEdge Pet Hardwood Floor Corded Vacuum: This vacuum is specifically designed for hard surfaces, featuring a V-shaped design to capture debris along edges and corners. Its lightweight design and corded power ensure that it can handle pet hair and other debris without leaving anything behind.
- Dyson V11 Torque Drive: The Dyson V11 is a powerful cordless vacuum that excels on hard floors due to its high suction and intelligent cleaning modes. It automatically adjusts suction power based on the type of floor, ensuring thorough cleaning while preserving battery life for longer cleaning sessions.
- Hoover Linx Signature Stick Vacuum: This stick vacuum offers a sleek design and is lightweight, making it easy to maneuver on hard floors. It features a powered brush roll for effective cleaning and a lithium-ion battery that provides fade-free power, ensuring consistent suction throughout its use.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About the Best Rated Vacuum Cleaners?
Customer reviews reveal several key insights about the best rated vacuum cleaners, including performance, ease of use, and durability.
- Performance: Many reviews highlight the suction power and cleaning efficiency of the vacuum cleaners. Customers often mention how well the vacuum picks up various types of debris, such as pet hair, dust, and larger particles, which indicates its effectiveness on different surfaces.
- Ease of Use: Reviewers frequently comment on the user-friendliness of the vacuum cleaner, including its weight, maneuverability, and ease of assembly. A vacuum that is easy to handle and operate tends to receive higher ratings, as customers value convenience in their cleaning routine.
- Durability: The longevity of the vacuum cleaner is a recurring theme in customer feedback. Reviews often discuss the materials and build quality, with many customers noting whether their vacuum has held up well over time and if it requires frequent repairs or replacements.
- Noise Level: Users often address the noise level of the vacuum cleaners in their reviews. A quieter vacuum is generally preferred, as customers appreciate a device that allows them to clean without disturbing others, particularly in shared living spaces.
- Versatility: Many reviews highlight the versatility of the best rated vacuum cleaners, noting features such as multiple attachments for different surfaces and the ability to convert between upright and handheld modes. This adaptability makes these vacuums suitable for various cleaning tasks around the home.
- Customer Support: Customer service experiences can significantly impact reviews, with users mentioning the responsiveness and helpfulness of the manufacturer. Positive interactions with customer support can enhance the overall satisfaction with the product, leading to better ratings.
How Do Price and Value Affect the Best Rated Vacuum Cleaners?
Value encompasses the benefits and functionality a consumer receives for the price paid. A vacuum cleaner that performs exceptionally well, lasts longer, and meets the user’s needs effectively can provide greater value, even if it comes at a higher initial cost.
The performance of a vacuum cleaner, which includes suction power, filtration system, and versatility, plays a pivotal role in determining its value. A highly rated vacuum that can tackle pet hair, deep clean carpets, and transition easily between floor types usually scores better in consumer satisfaction.
Durability is another key factor that affects both price and value. A vacuum that withstands wear and tear over time may save money in the long run, making a higher-priced model with robust construction a worthwhile investment.
Brand reputation can significantly influence consumer perceptions of price and value. Companies with a long-standing history of quality and customer service often justify their higher prices, as consumers are willing to pay more for the assurance of reliability and performance.
What Maintenance Practices Ensure Longevity in the Best Rated Vacuum Cleaners?
To ensure longevity in the best rated vacuum cleaners, several maintenance practices are essential.
- Regular Filter Cleaning and Replacement: Keeping filters clean is crucial for maintaining suction power and efficiency. Most vacuum cleaners have washable filters that should be rinsed regularly, while others may require replacement every few months depending on usage.
- Emptying the Dust Bin: Frequent emptying of the dust bin prevents clogging and maintains optimal performance. A full dust bin can lead to reduced suction and may even damage the motor if left unchecked.
- Inspecting and Cleaning the Brush Roll: Hair and debris can accumulate on the brush roll, hindering its performance. Regularly removing entangled hair and cleaning the brush ensures that the vacuum operates effectively and extends its lifespan.
- Checking for Clogs: Periodically inspecting hoses and attachments for clogs can prevent airflow issues. Clearing any blockages allows the vacuum cleaner to function correctly and prevents strain on the motor.
- Maintaining the Power Cord: Taking care of the power cord by avoiding kinks and frays is important for safety and longevity. Ensuring that the cord is stored properly and not pulled excessively can prevent electrical issues.
- Storing Properly: Storing the vacuum cleaner in a dry, cool place can prevent damage from humidity and temperature fluctuations. Proper storage also protects the vacuum from accidental falls or other physical damage.