Vacuum Cleaner Buyer's Guide
Choosing the right vacuum cleaner for your home can feel overwhelming with so many options available. From the bagged vs bagless debate to durability and warranty to pet hair performance, there are a lot of factors to consider. In this guide, we’ll break down most important things for you to know before purchasing a vacuum cleaner.
In the video below, we break down everything that you need to know about vacuum cleaners and which one is the best for your home. It’s a long video, but at the end you will be a certified vacuumologist!
The first step: Which vacuum type is best for you?
Types of Vacuum Cleaners
Upright Vacuums
Ideal for large carpeted areas and area rugs, they offer powerful suction and often come with brush rolls for deep cleaning.
Canister Vacuums
More versatile, great for both carpets and hard floors, and often lighter and easier to maneuver. Canister vacuums do take some getting used to.
Stick Vacuums
Lightweight and convenient for quick cleanups, but lack the power of corded models. These should usually be used with another vacuum cleaner.
Robot Vacuums
Perfect for hands-free cleaning, these work well on hard floors and low-pile carpets. These should be used with another vacuum cleaner, not as a primary vacuum.
Next Step: What floors are you cleaning?
Consider Your Floor Type
Carpets
Look for a vacuum with strong suction, an adjustable height feature, and a motorized brush roll. Thicker carpets will need further considerations, such as a lifetime belt or variable suction features.
Bare Flooring
Many vacuums will work on bare flooring, but some are certainly better than others. Stick vacuums can work well on bare floor, but keep in mind that these machines will not perform highly on carpets.
Mixed Flooring
If you have a little bit of everything, you’d benefit highly from a vacuum designed for versatility. Generally, canister vacuums are the best for this, but there are upright vacuums that work perfect for many floor types as well.
Now for the boring stuff...
How Long Do You Want Your Vacuum to Last?
Repair-ability
Many department store brands sell virtually zero repair components and have a lifespan of only a few years, requiring new vacuum purchases frequently. More premium brands, like Riccar, Sebo, Miele, or Simplicity offer comprehensive warranties, long part availability, and nationwide service centers. This helps extend the life of their vacuums to decades.
Warranty
A vacuum is an investment, so it’s important to consider what kind of warranty comes with it. Some brands offer long-term warranties covering parts and labor, while others may only provide a limited warranty. Additionally, choosing a vacuum from a brand with accessible service centers can make repairs easier and more affordable in the long run.
The debate that never ends...
Bagged vs Bagless Vacuums
Bagged Vacuum Cleaners
Bagged vacuum cleaners offer superior filtration, convenience, and longevity, making them the preferred choice for those who prioritize cleanliness and performance. There’s a reason why almost every single premium vacuum cleaner is bagged. These models use self-sealing, high-quality bags that trap dust, allergens, and fine particles far more effectively than their bagless counterparts, ensuring that debris stays contained even when replacing the bag. Additionally, because dust is securely stored in the bag rather than accumulating inside the machine, bagged vacuums require less frequent filter maintenance and tend to last longer with fewer mechanical issues. Most people believe that they will change their vacuum bag every time they vacuum, and that is simply untrue. Typically, we see that a package of bags will last most people about one year while costing between $12 and $35. While some may see the cost of replacement bags as a downside, the added cleanliness, reduced maintenance, and superior performance more than justify the relatively small expense.
Bagless Vacuum Cleaners
Bagless vacuum cleaners are popular for their perceived convenience and cost savings, as they eliminate the need for replacement bags. Instead of a disposable bag, these models use a dustbin and filter system to collect dirt and debris. While they may seem more economical, they often require frequent filter cleaning and emptying, which can release dust and allergens back into the air—something that bagged vacuums effectively prevent. Additionally, emptying the dustbin can be a messy process, often resulting in a cloud of fine particles that defeats the purpose of vacuuming in the first place. Over time, built-up debris in the vacuum’s internal components can also lead to clogs and reduced suction, making maintenance more of a hassle. While bagless vacuums may appeal to those who dislike buying replacement bags, their long-term upkeep and potential impact on air quality make them a less favorable choice for those seeking the best possible cleaning experience. That’s why essentially every premium vacuum cleaner uses high filtration bags.
For our furry friends...
Vacuums for Pet Hair
If you have pets, choosing the right vacuum cleaner can make a huge difference in keeping your home free from pet hair, dander, and stubborn debris. Pet-friendly vacuums are designed with powerful suction, specialized tools, and higher levels of filtration. Be wary of vacuum cleaners marketed as “Pet Vacuums.” We find that most of these models offer nothing to pet owners and simply say the word “pet” on the box. Additionally, vacuums with HEPA filtration or sealed air systems are highly beneficial for pet owners, as they trap allergens and fine particles, keeping the air cleaner and healthier.
By far, the highest-performing pet hair vacuum cleaners are Sebo vacuums and Riccar vacuums. These brands stand out for their exceptional build quality, durability, and deep-cleaning capabilities. Unlike many mass-market vacuums that struggle with pet hair buildup or require frequent maintenance, Sebo and Riccar models are built to last, making them a worthwhile investment for pet owners who demand the best in performance and longevity.
An entirely new debate...
Corded vs Cordless Vacuums
Corded Vacuum Cleaners
Corded vacuums are the gold standard for deep cleaning, offering unmatched suction power and consistency without the worry of a fading battery. Unlike cordless models, which lose suction as the battery drains, corded vacuums provide continuous, powerful performance for as long as needed, making them the ideal choice for whole-home cleaning and tackling tough messes. Their motors are stronger, allowing them to handle thick carpets, embedded dirt, and large debris with ease. While some may find the cord a minor inconvenience, modern designs incorporate long power cords, automatic cord rewind features, and swivel heads that make maneuvering around furniture much easier. For those who prioritize maximum cleaning performance, durability, and the ability to clean an entire house in one session, corded vacuums remain the superior option. There’s a reason professional cleaners and high-end vacuum brands focus on corded models—they deliver consistent, powerful results every time.
Cordless Vacuum Cleaners
Cordless vacuums have surged in popularity due to their lightweight design and convenience, but they come with notable trade-offs. The biggest advantage is freedom of movement, as there’s no cord to limit reach or get tangled around furniture. This makes them great for quick cleanups, small apartments, and spot-cleaning pet hair or crumbs in high-traffic areas. However, cordless models rely on rechargeable batteries, which means limited run time and potential power fade as the battery drains. Battery replacement is also a requirement every few years, which can be expensive. Additionally, many cordless vacuums struggle with deep cleaning carpets and require frequent emptying due to smaller dustbins. While high-end models have improved battery life and suction power, they still can’t match the raw cleaning capability and reliability of a well-built corded vacuum. For those who need occasional convenience, a cordless vacuum can be a useful secondary tool—but for serious cleaning, a corded vacuum is the clear winner.
Final Thoughts
Be proud of yourself, you’re now a vacuumologist!
The best vacuum cleaner for your home depends on a variety of factors, including your cleaning needs, flooring type, and lifestyle. If you have pets, a model with strong suction and specialized pet hair attachments will be essential. For allergy sufferers, a vacuum with HEPA filtration can significantly improve air quality by trapping fine dust and allergens. Those with mostly hardwood floors may prefer a canister vacuum with a soft brush head, while homes with plush carpets might require a powerful upright model with a motorized brush roll. Ease of use is also important—whether you prioritize lightweight maneuverability, automatic height adjustment, or bagged vs. bagless options, finding the right fit can make cleaning more efficient and stress-free.
Looking for expert recommendations? Check out our video for a detailed comparison of top-rated vacuum cleaners, where we break down performance, features, and real-world usability to help you make the best choice for your home!