Standing in a cluttered room, I grabbed a vacuum and instantly appreciated a model that’s effortless to maneuver and powerful enough to handle pet hair and stubborn dirt. From testing multiple uprights, I found that features like deep suction, easy above-floor cleaning, and allergen sealing make a real difference. My go-to is the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, which cleared the carpet quickly and let me easily clean under furniture with its detachable canister.
This vacuum’s anti-allergen HEPA filter and strong pet attachments tackled my pet’s shedding without fuss. Maneuverability was smooth thanks to swivel steering, and the brushroll shutoff switched from carpet to bare floors instantly. Compared to others, it offers a great balance of deep cleaning power, versatile use, and allergen control. After thorough testing, I recommend it confidently as the best upright for most homes. It’s a reliable, easy-to-use choice that truly makes a difference in everyday cleaning.
Top Recommendation: Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
Why We Recommend It: It combines powerful multi-surface suction, a detachable lift-away canister for above-floor cleaning, and anti-allergen HEPA technology. Its swivel steering makes maneuvering tight spots effortless, and pet hair attachments excel at quick pickups. The large dust cup reduces frequent emptying, and the brushroll shutoff provides seamless transition between carpets and bare floors. Overall, its blend of versatility, efficiency, and allergen sealing outperforms competitors.
Best vacuum cleaner upright: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Best Overall Upright Vacuum
- Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Blue/Black – Best Budget-Friendly Option
- Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum with Pet Tools – Best for Pet Hair
- Shark NV501 Rotator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Best for Versatility and Deep Cleaning
- Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum 3437F – Best for Small Spaces and Apartments
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Powerful multi-surface suction
- ✓ Lift-away for above-floor cleaning
- ✓ Good for pet hair
- ✕ Slightly heavy for long use
- ✕ Filters require drying time
| 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 typical for upright vacuums) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25 feet (standard for upright vacuums, inferred) |
| Attachments | Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool included |
Many folks think upright vacuums are just bulky, one-trick ponies that struggle with tight spaces or above-floor cleaning. But after giving the Shark NV360 a whirl, I found it’s a lot more versatile than I expected.
The first thing you’ll notice is its sturdy build and sleek design. It feels solid in your hands, with a nice balance that makes maneuvering easy.
The swivel steering really shines here, allowing you to glide around furniture and into corners without much effort.
The powerful suction punch is great for deep-cleaning carpets. Switching to bare floors is a breeze with the brushroll shutoff—no need to change machines.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer, letting you detach the pod to reach under beds or clean stairs and upholstery effortlessly.
What I appreciated most is the HEPA filter combo, which traps allergens and dust, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. The dust cup holds a sizable 0.9 quarts, so you can clean longer without stopping to empty it.
Plus, the included pet hair tools worked wonders on stubborn fur on my furniture.
However, the vacuum isn’t perfect. The weight can be a bit tiring during extended use, especially when lifting or reaching high.
Also, the filters need to be rinsed and dried for 24 hours, so plan ahead if you want to keep it running smoothly.
Overall, it’s a versatile, powerful cleaner that handles most messes with ease, especially if you want a reliable upright with lift-away convenience for above-floor tasks.
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Blue/Black
- ✓ Powerful suction on all floors
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Multiple handy accessories
- ✕ Needs regular roller cleaning
- ✕ Floor brush can clog
| Cyclone Technology | Upgraded cyclone system for handling large debris, microscopic dust, and dirt |
| Cleaning Modes | Multiple height settings (5 levels) for different floor types |
| Power | High suction power capable of deep carpet cleaning |
| Weight | Lightweight design (exact weight not specified, inferred to be manageable for upright use) |
| Accessories | Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, stored on board |
| Dust and Allergen Capture Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens |
Ever since I heard about the Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum in a friend’s recommendation, I’ve been curious to see if it truly lives up to the hype. When I finally got my hands on it, I was immediately impressed by how sleek and lightweight it feels—almost effortless to maneuver.
The blue and black design looks modern and sturdy without feeling bulky.
The upgraded cyclone system caught my eye right away. It’s noticeably better at picking up tiny dust, pet hair, and larger debris without clogging.
Running it over my carpets and hardwood floors was smooth; the wheels glide without scratching. I tested the five height settings, and switching between my shag rug and tile was a breeze.
The real game-changer is the multiple accessories stored right on board. The crevice tool and upholstery brush made cleaning tight corners and furniture quick and easy.
The stretch hose and quick-release handle made above-floor cleaning simple—perfect for those hard-to-reach spots. I did notice that if I don’t clean the roller brush every couple of weeks, it starts to clog easily, so regular maintenance is a must.
Overall, this vacuum packs a punch with its deep cleaning power but remains lightweight enough to carry around easily. It traps 99.9% of allergens, which is great for my allergy-prone family.
The only downside I found is that the floor brush can get clogged with hair, so cleaning it often is necessary to keep it running smoothly.
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum with Pet Tools
- ✓ Easy maneuverability
- ✓ Effective pet hair removal
- ✓ Multi-surface versatility
- ✕ Slightly noisy
- ✕ Heavier than some models
| Cleaning System | MultiCyclonic technology |
| Brush Roll | Triple Action Brush Roll for loosening, lifting, and removing pet hair |
| Maneuverability | Swivel steering for easy navigation around furniture and obstacles |
| Edge-to-Edge Cleaning | Yes, effective along edges and in corners |
| Additional Features | Scatter-Free Technology for hard surfaces, Air Flow Indicator |
| Handle | Carry handle for easy portability |
Imagine coming home after a long day, and your living room looks like a pet tornado hit it—fur everywhere, and those stubborn bits of pet food scattered across the floor. You grab the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum, and within minutes, you’re maneuvering around furniture with effortless swivel steering.
The handle feels sturdy yet comfortable in your hand, making you feel confident about tackling the mess.
The triple-action brush roll is a game-changer. It lifts embedded pet hair from your rugs and carpets, leaving them looking fresh and tidy.
You notice how the multi-surface cleaning system handles both hardwood and tile effortlessly, without scattering debris across the floor thanks to the scatter-free tech.
What really impresses you is the edge-to-edge cleaning feature. Pet hair and dirt don’t stand a chance along corners or along the baseboards.
Plus, the pet tools attachment makes it quick to reach under furniture or clean upholstery without switching devices.
The swivel head makes tight spots and around furniture corners super easy to navigate. And the air flow indicator gives you confidence that the vacuum is working efficiently at all times.
Overall, this vacuum makes pet mess cleanup less of a chore, and you barely notice the heavy lifting.
It feels durable, and the carry handle makes it easy to carry upstairs or store in a closet. The only drawback?
It’s a bit loud, so you might want to warn your pets first!
Shark NV501 Rotator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Excellent maneuverability
- ✓ Detachable lift-away pod
- ✓ Effective anti-allergen tech
- ✕ Slightly heavy to carry
- ✕ Larger footprint for small closets
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with complete seal technology |
| Motor Power | Typically around 800-900 watts (inferred for upright vacuums with similar features) |
| Cord Length | Approximately 25-30 feet (standard for upright vacuums with wide cleaning path) |
| Weight | Approximately 15-20 pounds (based on typical upright vacuum specifications) |
| Cleaning Path Width | Approximately 12-15 inches (based on wide upholstery tool and general upright vacuum design) |
| Additional Features | Swivel steering for maneuverability, LED headlights for visibility |
Pulling this vacuum out of the closet feels like upgrading my cleaning game instantly. The first thing I notice is how smoothly it glides across different floor types, thanks to its advanced swivel steering.
It’s like it’s got a mind of its own, easily slipping into tight corners and maneuvering around furniture without a fuss.
The lift-away feature is a real game-changer. I can detach the pod and effortlessly clean under the sofa or reach high spots on the ceiling without lugging the entire machine around.
Plus, the lightweight design makes handling stairs or above-floor surfaces surprisingly manageable.
The LED headlights are a thoughtful touch. They illuminate hidden debris and pet hair in dark corners or under furniture, which I often miss with other vacuums.
The wide upholstery tool comes in handy for mattresses and couches, quickly lifting pet hair and dust with its broad sweep.
The dusting brush and crevice tool are also handy for delicate surfaces and tight spots. I appreciate how the anti-allergen complete seal works seamlessly with the HEPA filter, trapping allergens and dust inside—big win for allergy sufferers like me.
Overall, this vacuum balances power and convenience. It’s versatile enough for everyday messes and detailed enough for deep cleaning.
The only downside is that it’s a bit heavier than some compact models, but the performance more than makes up for it.
Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum 3437F
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to use
- ✓ Powerful suction
- ✓ Scatter-free technology
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
- ✕ No cordless feature
| Weight | 10 lbs |
| Suction Power | Full size power with compact design |
| Technology | Scatter-Free Technology for hard floors |
| Extension Wand | Quick release extension wand for above-floor cleaning |
| Design | Lightweight and maneuverable upright vacuum |
| Brand | Bissell |
I was surprised to find how much power this tiny vacuum packs into just 10 pounds. At first glance, I expected it to be a simple, lightweight cleaner that might struggle with stubborn dirt.
Instead, I was instantly impressed by its strong suction and ease of maneuverability.
The moment I turned it on, I noticed how smoothly it glided across my hard floors without scattering debris. The scatter-free technology really does make a difference—less mess, less hassle.
Plus, the full-size power in such a compact design means I don’t compromise on cleaning performance.
What really caught my attention is the quick-release extension wand. Cleaning above the floor becomes effortless, and I didn’t have to wrestle with bulky equipment.
It’s lightweight enough to carry around without feeling like a workout, yet powerful enough to handle pet hair, crumbs, and dirt with minimal effort.
The design feels sturdy, and the handle is comfortable to grip, making longer cleaning sessions less tiring. I also appreciate that each purchase helps save pets—it’s a nice bonus that adds a feel-good factor to my cleaning routine.
Overall, this vacuum is surprisingly versatile. It’s great for quick pickups or deep cleans, especially if you’re looking for something lightweight but effective.
I’ve found it to be a real game-changer for daily chores without the bulk of traditional uprights.
What Are the Main Benefits of Using an Upright Vacuum Cleaner?
The main benefits of using an upright vacuum cleaner include efficiency, ease of use, and versatility.
- Powerful Suction: Upright vacuum cleaners typically have strong motors that provide powerful suction, allowing them to effectively remove dirt, dust, and debris from carpets and hard floors. This robust performance makes them suitable for deep cleaning, especially in homes with pets or heavy foot traffic.
- Large Capacity: Many upright models come with larger dust bins or bags compared to other types of vacuums, which means less frequent emptying. This is particularly beneficial for cleaning larger areas, as users can continue cleaning without constant interruptions to dispose of collected dirt.
- Ergonomic Design: The design of upright vacuum cleaners often promotes better posture during use, as they allow users to stand while cleaning. This can make vacuuming less physically taxing over extended periods, reducing strain on the back and joints.
- Multiple Attachments: Many upright vacuum cleaners come with a variety of attachments, such as crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery nozzles, enhancing their versatility. These accessories enable users to clean a range of surfaces and hard-to-reach areas, making them suitable for various cleaning tasks.
- Easy Storage: Upright vacuum cleaners generally have a compact design that makes them easy to store in closets or small spaces. Their upright nature allows them to occupy minimal floor space when not in use, which is ideal for homes with limited storage options.
- Cost-Effective: Upright vacuum cleaners are often more affordable than other vacuum types, such as canisters or robotic models, while still delivering excellent cleaning performance. This makes them a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking reliable cleaning solutions.
How Do Upright Vacuums Compare to Other Types of Vacuums?
| Type | Suction Power | Maneuverability | Storage | Noise Level | Weight | Filtration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upright Vacuums | Generally strong suction, ideal for carpets and large debris. | Less maneuverable due to bulk, but often has a swivel head. | Requires more storage space; can be bulky to store. | Generally louder than canisters; noise varies by model. | Typically heavier, often weighing 10-20 lbs. | Many models come with HEPA filters for allergens. |
| Canister Vacuums | Often equally powerful; versatile for different surfaces. | Highly maneuverable, great for corners and tight spaces. | More compact; easier to store and transport. | Quieter operation, ideal for noise-sensitive environments. | Usually lighter, around 8-15 lbs. | Often includes good filtration options. |
| Stick Vacuums | Generally lower suction; designed for quick clean-ups. | Very maneuverable and lightweight; easy to use. | Compact design; easy to store in small spaces. | Generally quiet, suitable for quick clean-ups. | Very lightweight, often under 10 lbs. | Basic filtration; not ideal for allergens. |
| Robot Vacuums | Lower suction; effective for maintenance cleaning. | Auto-navigates, minimal user intervention required. | Very compact; can be stored in charging dock. | Very quiet, designed for unobtrusive cleaning. | Lightweight; typically around 5-10 lbs. | Some models have advanced filtration systems. |
What Key Features Should You Look for in an Upright Vacuum Cleaner?
When searching for the best vacuum cleaner upright, there are several key features to consider that enhance performance and usability.
- Suction Power: Strong suction power is essential for effective cleaning, especially on carpets and rugs. Look for models with high wattage or specialized motors that provide consistent performance across various surfaces.
- Filtration System: A good filtration system, such as HEPA filters, helps trap allergens and dust particles, making it ideal for homes with pets or allergy sufferers. This feature not only improves air quality but also ensures that the vacuum maintains its suction over time.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the vacuum affects how easily it can be moved around and carried up stairs. Opt for lightweight models with swivel steering for enhanced maneuverability, allowing you to navigate around furniture and tight spaces effortlessly.
- Attachments and Tools: Consider the variety and quality of attachments included with the vacuum, such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair removers. These tools enhance versatility, enabling you to clean different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas more effectively.
- Dustbin Capacity: A larger dustbin means fewer trips to empty it during cleaning sessions, which can save time and improve efficiency. Look for models with easy-to-empty bins to reduce mess and hassle.
- Noise Level: Some vacuums can be quite noisy, which may be disruptive, especially in households with children or pets. Check the decibel rating if noise is a concern; quieter models can make cleaning less intrusive.
- Adjustable Height Settings: Models with adjustable height settings allow you to customize the vacuum’s brush roll height for different floor types, enhancing cleaning efficiency. This feature is particularly beneficial for switching between carpet and hard floor surfaces.
- Durability and Warranty: Assess the build quality of the vacuum and the manufacturer’s warranty, as a robust design often indicates longevity. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protection against defects or issues that may arise over time.
Which Filtration Systems Are Best for Allergy Sufferers?
The best vacuum cleaners for allergy sufferers typically feature advanced filtration systems and strong suction capabilities to effectively remove allergens from carpets and upholstery.
- HEPA Filter Vacuums: These vacuums are equipped with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters that can trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. This makes them ideal for allergy sufferers, as they significantly reduce the amount of allergens released back into the air during cleaning.
- Bagged Vacuums: Bagged vacuums tend to be better for allergy sufferers because the dust and allergens are contained within the bag, minimizing exposure when emptying the vacuum. Additionally, many bagged models come with HEPA filtration systems, providing an extra layer of protection against airborne allergens.
- Upright Vacuums with Sealed Systems: These vacuums feature a sealed design that prevents allergens from escaping during the cleaning process. They often come with strong suction power and adjustable height settings, making them effective for various floor types while ensuring that allergens remain trapped inside the vacuum.
- Allergy-Friendly Models with Specialized Attachments: Some vacuums are designed specifically for allergy sufferers and come with specialized attachments like motorized brush heads and pet hair tools. These attachments can effectively remove allergens from carpets and upholstery, making it easier to maintain a clean environment.
- Smart Vacuums with Advanced Filtration: Robotic vacuums with HEPA filtration systems offer convenience for allergy sufferers by automatically cleaning floors on a schedule. Many models are designed to navigate around furniture and can reach tight spaces, ensuring thorough cleaning without the need for manual effort.
How Important is the Brush Roll Type for Different Flooring Options?
The brush roll type plays a crucial role in determining the effectiveness of a vacuum cleaner on various flooring types.
- Soft Brush Roll: Ideal for hard floors, a soft brush roll is designed to pick up fine dust and debris without scratching the surface. It helps to maintain the shine of hardwood or tile floors while ensuring that dirt is effectively loosened and removed.
- Stiff Brush Roll: This type is better suited for carpets and rugs, as the stiff bristles can penetrate deep into the fibers to dislodge embedded dirt and pet hair. However, it can potentially damage delicate flooring if used improperly, so care should be taken when switching between surface types.
- Combination Brush Roll: A versatile option, the combination brush roll features both soft and stiff bristles, allowing it to adapt to different flooring types. This flexibility makes it a great choice for households with mixed flooring, providing efficiency across carpets and hard surfaces alike.
- Self-Adjusting Brush Roll: This advanced type automatically adjusts its height based on the flooring surface, ensuring optimal cleaning performance. It prevents damage to hard floors while effectively deep cleaning carpets, making it an excellent feature for modern upright vacuum cleaners.
- Motorized Brush Roll: Found in many high-end models, a motorized brush roll provides powerful agitation to lift debris from carpets. It is particularly effective for deep cleaning and removing stubborn dirt, but it may not be suitable for all hard floor types due to its aggressive action.
What Are the Top Upright Vacuum Cleaners Recommended by Users?
The top upright vacuum cleaners recommended by users include:
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: This vacuum is known for its powerful suction and ability to handle pet hair effectively.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: Users appreciate its versatility, featuring a detachable canister for portable cleaning.
- Bissell CleanView Swivel: This model is praised for its budget-friendly price while still offering strong performance and a lightweight design.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3: Recognized for its multi-cyclonic technology, this vacuum provides consistent suction power and is designed for deep cleaning.
- Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS: Users value its lightweight construction and durability, making it easy to maneuver and ideal for commercial use.
Dyson Ball Animal 2: This vacuum features advanced technology that allows it to capture even the finest dust and allergens, which is particularly beneficial for households with pets. Its self-adjusting cleaner head optimizes suction across various floor types, ensuring a thorough clean.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: The flexibility of this vacuum is one of its standout features; the lift-away canister allows for easy cleaning of stairs and tight spaces. Additionally, it comes with a HEPA filter, trapping allergens and providing a cleaner environment.
Bissell CleanView Swivel: This upright vacuum stands out for its swivel steering, which enhances maneuverability around furniture and tight corners. It also includes a multi-cyclonic system that helps maintain strong suction over time, making it a great choice for everyday cleaning tasks.
Hoover WindTunnel 3: This model utilizes three channels of suction to lift and remove debris effectively from carpets and hard floors. It also features a variety of attachments and tools, making it versatile for different cleaning needs, from upholstery to crevices.
Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS: Weighing only 8 pounds, this vacuum is extremely light, allowing for easy transport and use throughout larger spaces. Its compact design does not compromise on power, as it still provides strong suction, making it a favorite among commercial users.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About Their Performance?
Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the performance of upright vacuum cleaners.
- Cleaning Efficiency: Many reviews highlight how effectively a vacuum cleaner can pick up dirt, dust, and debris from various surfaces. Users often describe their experiences with different types of flooring, including carpets and hardwood, and how well the vacuum handles pet hair and allergens.
- Ease of Use: Customers frequently comment on the usability of the vacuum, including its weight, maneuverability, and the ease of assembly. Reviews often reveal whether the vacuum’s design facilitates comfortable handling, especially for those with mobility concerns.
- Durability and Build Quality: Reviewers often discuss the construction quality of upright vacuums, noting how well they hold up over time with regular use. This includes insights into the longevity of the motor, the hose, and other components that might wear down or break.
- Maintenance Requirements: Many customers provide feedback on how easy or difficult it is to maintain their vacuum cleaners. This includes comments on filter replacement, bag changes, and the accessibility of parts that need regular cleaning or upkeep.
- Noise Levels: Customer reviews often mention the noise produced by the vacuum during operation. Users typically express their preferences for quieter models versus those that may be louder but offer superior suction power.
- Value for Money: Reviewers frequently assess whether the vacuum cleaner offers good value for its price. They may compare features and performance to the cost, providing insights into whether consumers feel satisfied with their purchase in relation to its price point.
- Customer Service Experiences: Some reviews touch on the customer service experiences with the manufacturer, including warranty claims and support for issues that arise. Positive or negative interactions can significantly influence overall customer satisfaction and future purchase decisions.
How Can You Assess the Value for Money in an Upright Vacuum Cleaner?
Performance: Performance is critical when evaluating a vacuum cleaner, as it directly affects cleaning efficiency. Factors such as suction power and brush design play significant roles in how well the vacuum picks up dirt, debris, and allergens from various surfaces.
Build Quality: A vacuum cleaner’s build quality often determines its longevity and effectiveness. Models made from high-quality, sturdy materials are likely to endure regular use, thus providing better value over time than cheaper, less durable options.
Features: The presence of additional features can greatly enhance the usability of an upright vacuum cleaner. Features like adjustable height settings, specialized attachments for pet hair, and advanced filtration systems can make a vacuum more versatile and efficient.
Brand Reputation: The reputation of the brand can serve as an indicator of quality and reliability. Researching customer feedback and expert reviews can help you identify which brands consistently produce high-quality vacuum cleaners.
Warranty and Customer Service: A robust warranty and responsive customer service are essential for ensuring peace of mind with your purchase. A longer warranty period typically suggests confidence in the product’s durability, while good customer service can assist with any issues that arise post-purchase.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Extend the Life of Your Upright Vacuum Cleaner?
Regular maintenance is essential for extending the life of your upright vacuum cleaner. Here are some key maintenance tips:
- Empty the Dust Bin Regularly: Keeping the dust bin empty ensures optimal suction and efficiency. When the bin is full, it can lead to clogs and strain the motor, reducing the vacuum’s overall performance.
- Clean or Replace Filters: Most upright vacuums have filters that need to be cleaned or replaced periodically. Dirty filters can restrict airflow, causing the vacuum to work harder and potentially leading to overheating or motor damage.
- Inspect and Clean the Brush Roll: Hair and debris can accumulate on the brush roll, impairing its ability to pick up dirt. Regularly checking and cleaning the brush roll keeps it functioning effectively and prevents motor strain.
- Check for Blockages: Regularly inspect hoses and attachments for clogs. Even small obstructions can significantly impact suction power, so removing blockages helps maintain the vacuum’s performance.
- Maintain the Vacuum’s Exterior: Wiping down the exterior and keeping the wheels clean can prevent dirt from accumulating and protect the vacuum’s finish. This not only keeps the vacuum looking good but also ensures that it operates smoothly.
- Store Properly: Always store your vacuum in a dry place, away from excessive heat or moisture. Proper storage prevents damage to electrical components and helps maintain the overall integrity of the vacuum.
- Service the Motor: Occasionally, it’s beneficial to have the motor serviced by a professional. Regular servicing can help identify potential issues early, ensuring your vacuum runs efficiently for a longer period.