Which Vacuum Cleaner is Best for Your Home? Find Out Here
There are many types of vacuum cleaners to choose from, and without proper research, selecting the right one for your home can be challenging. But don’t worry.
Say goodbye to dirty and dusty floors with one of these vacuum cleaners.
Below, you’ll find details, advantages, and disadvantages of the eight main types of vacuum cleaners to help you make the right purchase decision.
Answers to a few common questions are also included to assist you further.
Understanding the 8 Types of Vacuum Cleaners
There are eight main types of vacuum cleaners that we will explore in detail in this article.
Let’s begin the process of finding the correct type of vacuum cleaner for your home.
1. Upright Vacuums
Upright vacuum cleaners are specifically designed to work best in larger homes with carpeted floors. They use a motorized brush to loosen and remove dirt from the carpet through powerful suction.
When most people think of a vacuum cleaner, they think of the upright model.
Some upright vacuum cleaners can also clean hardwood floors, but this depends on the brand.
Pros
- They usually come with attachments for broader cleaning situations.
- They stand on their own when not in use.
- They typically have a wider cleaning path.
Cons
- They are more challenging to maneuver in tight spaces, such as corners and under furniture.
- They are usually on the heavier side.
Additional Specs
- Type: Upright
- Cleaning Surface: Hard floors and carpets
- Noise Level: Loud
- Best for Cleaning: Hair, dust, allergens
- Storage Size: Medium
- Price: Low to high-end
- Maneuverability: Medium
Read Also: Are Dyson vacuums worth it? And You Need to Buy It Or Not
2. Handheld Vacuums
Handheld vacuum cleaners are designed for people who have small areas in their homes that are difficult to reach with other types of vacuums.
This type is also great for keeping areas like cars clean.
You can choose between corded and cordless models, depending on your preference for the type of vacuum cleaner.
Finally, if your home has small spaces or stairs, a handheld vacuum cleaner can easily clean these tight spots.
Pros
- They can be either cordless or corded.
- They are designed to reach small nooks and crannies.
- They can be used in both homes and cars.
Cons
- They don’t have as much power as some other types.
- They are not designed for large-scale general cleaning.
Additional Specs
- Type: Handheld
- Cleaning Surface: Carpets, cars, most fabrics, hard floors
- Noise Level: Quiet
- Best for Cleaning: Crumbs, dust, hair
- Storage Size: Small
- Price: Lower end
- Maneuverability: Easy
3. Canister Vacuums
When you need a powerful vacuum cleaner, the Canister style is a great choice.
They are designed to be some of the most powerful vacuum models available, but they are usually lightweight as well.
This means you can enjoy strong suction without worrying about the weight of the vacuum cleaner wearing you out.
Additionally, canister vacuums come with various tools that make different cleaning tasks easier and more manageable without the need to switch to another machine.
Pros
- They have a lot of power.
- They are usually lightweight.
- They typically come with different tools for various cleaning tasks.
Cons
- They usually need to be assembled.
- They are more challenging to store due to their bulky design.
Additional Specs
- Type: Canister
- Cleaning Surface: Stairs, carpets, fabrics, hard floors
- Noise Level: Moderate
- Best for Cleaning: Dust, pet hair, food, dirt
- Storage Size: Large
- Price: Higher-end
- Maneuverability: Difficult
Read Also: How Long Do Vacuums Last? (Here’s The Answer)
4. Stick Vacuums
Stick vacuums are designed for people living in smaller homes or apartments.
They are meant to clean up small messes and have a lightweight design, making them ideal for people who have difficulty lifting or moving heavy items.
Due to their small size, they are also easier to use in tight spaces where larger vacuums can’t reach without an attachment.
Lastly, they don’t take up much space when stored, helping you keep your cleaning closet tidier.
Pros
- They are great for small messes.
- They are typically lightweight.
- They are easy to store.
Cons
- They have a smaller dirt bin capacity.
- They tend to be quite noisy.
Additional Specs
- Type: Stick
- Cleaning Surface: Rugs, light carpet, hard floors
- Noise Level: Loud
- Best for Cleaning: Surface litter
- Storage Size: Small
- Price: Low to Medium end
- Maneuverability: Easy
5. Robot Vacuums
Like most products, robotic vacuum cleaners are designed to offer you the convenience of not having to perform everyday cleaning tasks manually.
This type of vacuum usually comes with an innovative app that lets you control it from a device of your choice.
They are designed to reach difficult areas, like under furniture, without needing to move it around like other types of vacuum cleaners.
Lastly, because of their compact size, robot vacuums can be stored almost anywhere, as they take up very little space.
Pros
- They allow you to relax while it cleans for you.
- Most models can be controlled with smart devices.
- They take up very little storage space.
Cons
- The average price for these types is higher.
- They are not designed for large messes.
Additional Specs
- Type: Robot
- Cleaning Surface: Carpets, hard floors
- Noise Level: Quiet
- Best for Cleaning: Dust, crumbs, hair, dirt
- Storage Size: Small
- Price: Medium to High end
- Maneuverability: Easy
6. Backpack Vacuums
Using a vacuum cleaner can be tough for someone with back pain, which is why the backpack vacuum cleaner was designed to reduce the strain of cleaning.
The machine itself is in a backpack-style carrying system, and it has a wand-like hose to pick up dirt.
Because it uses a wand, this type of vacuum can easily reach tight spaces and corners.
They are ideal for homes that may have soil or a lot of dust brought in, and they can usually be used on most types of surfaces.
Pros
- They are designed to help those with back pain still clean.
- The hand wand is usually lightweight.
- They are designed to pick up dust and soil.
Cons
- Sometimes, people have difficulty adjusting the straps.
- They usually have small storage bags for collected debris.
Additional Specs
- Type: Backpack
- Cleaning Surface: Furniture, floors, carpets
- Noise Level: Medium
- Best for Cleaning: Dust, soil
- Storage Size: Large
- Price: Medium to High end
- Maneuverability: Easy
Read Also: Shark Vs Roomba — Which Robot Vacuum Is Best For You?
7. Wet/Dry Vacuums
One of the best features of wet and dry vacuum cleaners is that they are perfect for homes with a mix of hard floors and carpets.
They are often used in industrial settings because they can pick up both wet and dry debris, so you don’t have to switch between mops and vacuums.
However, this also makes them difficult to use and maneuver effectively.
They are generally priced in the medium to high range, but they can pick up debris that other types can’t, like glass.
Pros
- They can clean both wet and dry debris.
- They are designed to be easy to clean.
- They can be used in both industrial sites and homes.
Cons
- They tend to retain scents from the things they vacuum up.
- They are generally corded.
Additional Specs
- Type: Wet and Dry
- Cleaning Surface: Furniture, cars, floors
- Noise Level: Medium
- Best for Cleaning: Foods, glass, liquids, solids, dust
- Storage Size: Large
- Price: Low to Medium end
- Maneuverability: Difficult
8. Central Vacuum Systems
If you are looking to improve the value of your home, consider a central vacuum system.
These systems are permanent fixtures in your home, but they are designed to help promote healthier air quality inside your home overall.
Plus, they can help keep your home clean without the tedious daily or weekly cleaning process that other vacuum cleaners require.
Central vacuum systems are typically more powerful than portable vacuums, making them efficient for larger spaces.
For various cleaning purposes, it can customized with multiple attachments. They are also quieter.
Although they may require a more significant initial investment, they can save time and effort in the long run while enhancing your home’s cleanliness.
Pros
- They are designed to be on the quieter side.
- They can add monetary value to your home.
- They help promote healthier air quality inside.
- These systems are highly efficient for larger spaces, reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
- They are built to last and often come with extended warranties, making them a durable investment.
- While the initial setup can be costly, the long-term benefits of convenience, quiet operation, and improved air quality make them a worthwhile choice.
Cons
They are not as energy-efficient as other types.
Even the more affordable models are still expensive for most people.
Additional Specs
- Type: Central vacuum system
- Cleaning Surface: Hard floor, furniture, carpets
- Noise Level: Quiet
- Best for Cleaning: Dander, dirt, debris
- Storage Size: Small
- Price: Higher-end
- Maneuverability: Medium
Is a vacuum cleaner essential?
If you want to keep your home clean and free from allergens that can cause health issues, the answer is yes—a vacuum cleaner is necessary.
No matter which type of vacuum cleaner you choose, they are designed to remove debris such as dirt, dust, pet hair, and other harmful particles.
Whether you suffer from allergies or enjoy a clean home, use a high-quality vacuum cleaner to make a significant difference in your home’s cleanliness and overall air quality.
Regular use of a vacuum cleaner ensures healthier enviornment. It also helps to maintain a tidy living space. It is an essential tool for any home.
Advantages of a Vacuum Cleaner
Having the correct type of vacuum cleaner has many benefits. It not only helps keep your home clean but also removes allergy-causing particles from your home, which can be harmful to your health. It is a low-cost device that can provide you with many health benefits.
- It is a low-cost device that provides many health benefits.
- It helps remove dust, mites, and other allergy-causing particles from your home.
- Vacuum cleaners can provide relief for people with allergies as they eliminate harmful particles and pollutants from the air.
- Using a vacuum cleaner can also serve as light exercise.
- Another benefit is their ability to be used on different types of floors, such as:
- Hard floors
- Tile floors,
- Vinyl floors, and more.
Bagged vs. Bagless: Choosing the Right Vacuum Cleaner
You may encounter such situations with different types of vacuum cleaners, each having its pros and cons. Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference and what aspect is more important to you.
For example, suppose you or someone in your home has allergies or asthma. In that case, you might prefer a bagless vacuum cleaner as they often have HEPA filters that capture allergy-causing particles. However, if you need deep cleaning for carpets and rugs, you might prefer a bagged vacuum cleaner, as they are capable of providing thorough cleaning.
Bagged vacuums
Pros
Better for deep cleaning carpets.
They are usually heavier and made from more durable materials.
Bags can typically hold more debris at a time.
Cons
- Issue For those who are sensitive to allergies.
- Replacing these can often create more mess.
Bagless vacuums
Pros
There is usually a filter for allergies.
You don’t need to buy new bags constantly.
They are generally made from lightweight materials.
Cons
The filter needs to be changed regularly.
Insights and Takeaways
When thinking about buying a new vacuum cleaner, it’s essential to understand the different types and what they excel at, as well as what they’re not good for, before making a final decision.
Create a checklist of features you need in your vacuum cleaner, and ask yourself some key questions.
How big is the area I need to clean? Will I have access to power outlets? Do I need to clean small crevices? These are just a few questions that can guide you to the right choice.