11 Best Vacuum Cleaners, Tested by Cleaning Experts
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Tested by Jodhaira RodriguezReviews Analyst
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Vacuum cleaners can be pricey, so it's best to do some research on high-quality models and consider what will work best for you, your home and your floor types. I've tested dozens of vacuums while working in the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, so I know which brands and models are best for each individual. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly vacuum options, lightweight models, high-tech vacuums with AI features or a simple, traditional vacuum cleaner, I've got a recommendation for you.
Our Top Pick: The Shark Stratos Upright Vacuum Cleaner AX3000. We loved this multitasking vacuum's ability to clean different floor types, useful attachments, powerful suction, compact size, easy-to-empty dust cup and a HEPA filter. All for a fair price.
To help you find the best vacuums, I've gathered a list of top-performing vacuums from our tests. In the Lab, we put all types of vacuums through extensive testing based on ASTM International industry-standard methods and use a custom-built machine to quantify the amount of embedded dirt that the vacuum cleaners remove from medium-pile carpeting. In addition, we assess bare floor cleaning, pet hair pick up, ease of use and more.
Pros
- Features a HEPA filter
- Converts from an upright to a stick
- Brush roll system minimizes pet hair clogging
Cons
- On the bulkier side
Who it's best for: If you prefer bagless vacuums but still want a model that filters out tiny particles, this sealed vacuum with a HEPA filter is a great option. It also boasts similar features to our previous pick for best overall, the APEX Upright Vacuum Cleaner, which has since been discontinued by Shark.
In our Lab tests: When I tested the Shark Stratos, it was able to gobble up large and small debris (including hair!) on wood, tile and vinyl floors as well as low and medium-to-high pile carpets. The vacuum works fast and can clean along wall edges, thanks to its double-brush roll nozzle. The self-cleaning brush roll successfully prevented hair clogging, helpful for pet owners. I did, however, find the vacuum to be a tad bulky.
Why we love it: In addition to a HEPA filter, the Shark Stratos also features a sealed system to help keep dust inside the vacuum, making it a great choice for families with allergy sufferers. I also appreciate how versatile it is: you can turn the upright vacuum into a stick vacuum or a handheld canister for cleaning under furniture, windowsills and more. The model is easy to use and has a large carry handle on top of the canister as well as well-labeled buttons.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: I Tested Shark's Stratos Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Weight: 17.2 lbs | Cord length: Not listed | Battery life/Run time: N/A | Bag or bagless: Bagless | Dust cup capacity: Not listed | Cleaning modes: Hard floor, upholstery, Carpet/low pile, rug
Bissell CleanView Bagless Vacuum
Pros
- Adjustable height settings for every floor type
- Can be turned on and off with your foot
- Onboard storage for all tools
- Has a mini brush attachment for stairs and upholstery
Cons
- Brush roll cannot be turned off
Who it's best for: With its 4.7-star Amazon rating, this budget upright vacuum from Bissell is clearly a fan favorite. And based on our tests of similar Bissell models with many of the same features, I think it makes a great basic, affordable vacuum for cleaning hard floors, carpets and other surfaces.
Why we love it: While it doesn’t have some of the bells and whistles of pricier vacuums, like multiple suction levels, a HEPA filter or a brush roll that can be turned off, it does have five height options ranging from bare floors to high pile carpets, an 8-foot hose for cleaning above the floor and a large, easy-to-empty dust cup.
A few of our other favorite perks on a vacuum at this price point are a TurboBrush tool similar to the motorized pet tools on many pricier models, a retractable cord and onboard storage for the tools.
RELATED: The Best Bissell Vacuums
Weight: 16 lbs | Cord length: 27 ft. | Battery life/Run time: N/A | Bag or bagless: Bagless | Dust cup capacity: 1 L | Cleaning modes: One suction power mode, five height settings (bare floor to high pile carpet)
Pros
- Automatically adjusts speed and suction according to how much dust it senses
- Laser beam makes it easy to see dust on bare floors
- Includes an assortment of innovative attachments
Cons
- Pricey
Who it's best for: This stick vacuum is ideal for those who want an easy-to-use model that can do it all. With multiple settings and attachment options for different surfaces to clean, this vacuum has a one-hour run time, which is quite high for a cordless model.
In our Lab tests: Dyson stick vacuums are always among the best in our tests for both excellent performance and incredible features, and this V15 Detect is no exception. It earned a spot in our Good Housekeeping Best Cleaning & Organizing Awards in 2021 thanks to its innovative fluffy roller brush attachment that shines a laser on the floor to spotlight the tiniest bits of invisible, often overlooked debris.
Why we love it: Its whole-machine filtration helps keep allergens from escaping and the V15 Detect automatically increases the suction and speed of the brush roll to match the floor type and amount of dust it senses during cleaning. I like the clear LCD screen that shows battery life and the number and sizes of the particles being picked up.
Like most stick vacuums, this Dyson converts to a hand vacuum, though at over 6 pounds, it's heavier than others we've tested, and all this fancy technology comes at a bit of a steep price.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Stick Vacuum
Weight: 6.8 lbs | Cord length: Cordless | Battery life/Run time: Up to 60 minutes | Bag or bagless: Bagless | Dust cup capacity: 0.76 L | Cleaning modes: Eco, auto, boost
Kenmore Pet Friendly Pop-N-Go Bagged Canister Vacuum
Pros
- Comes with a mini motorized attachment for pet hair
- Sealed system and dust bag so less dust escapes
- Big wheels for easy maneuvering
- Telescoping metal wands
Cons
- Heavy
- Hose was a bit short for some
Who it's best for: The best vacuums for homes with pets are those that pick up hair from all surfaces and keep allergens and odors contained. This Kenmore wins on all accounts.
In our Lab tests: The Pet Friendly Pop-N-Go aced our floor cleaning tests, we found the controls easy to use and the big wheels made maneuvering a breeze. I loved that the floor brush can be quickly attached with the press of a button. Some online reviewers said the hose was a bit short, but it didn't bother us during testing.
Why we love it: Powerful and versatile, this model has a motorized power nozzle to deep clean carpets, a mini motorized brush tool to lift pet hair from upholstery and a floor brush to gather fur on hardwoods and other bare floors. Bonus: All attachments except the power nozzle can be stored right on the vacuum.
To minimize odors, the disposable dust bag and sealed system keep unwanted debris from escaping while cleaning and the HEPA filter on the exhaust traps microscopic particles for those with allergies.
RELATED: The Best Vacuums for Pet Hair
Weight: 25.4 lbs | Cord length: 26 ft. | Battery life/Run time: Up to 60 minutes | Bag or bagless: Bag | Dust cup capacity: 2.1 L | Cleaning modes: Carpets; hard floors; xlo, lo, med and high carpet pile adjustments
Miele Boost CX1 Parquet
Pros
- Parquet floor brush specifically designed for hardwood floors
- Four suction power settings
- Easy to maneuver and carry
Cons
- Hose can be a bit awkward to store
Who it's best for: This model is a great choice if your floors are mostly wood or laminate, thanks to its large parquet floor brush that safely and thoroughly cleans the cracks and crevices of hardwood floors.
In our Lab tests: Miele is famous for making beautifully designed, great-performing vacuums. This little canister impressed us so much by its pick-up performance, high-end features, HEPA filter, attachments and more, earning it a Good Housekeeping Best Cleaning & Organizing Award. In our tests, it left no debris behind on any bare floor — including vinyl and tile — and it was very easy to maneuver and carry thanks to its oversized wheels, compact design and easy-grip handle.
Why we love it: Its extra-large dust cup is super easy to remove and the HEPA filter minimizes allergens emitted while vacuuming. Our testers called it “cute” and "convenient" with its retractable cord and place to clip the wand, though one wished that it also had an easy way to wrap the hose for even neater storage.
Weight: 18 lbs | Cord length: 21 ft. | Battery life/Run time: N/A | Bag or bagless: Bagless | Dust cup capacity: 1 L | Cleaning modes: Curtains/lightweight fabric, deep pile carpets, low pile carpets and hard flooring
Dreame H12 Pro Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner
Pros
- Edge-to-edge cleaning design
- Roller drying feature
- Cleans hardwood floors quickly
Cons
- Some online reviews note a smell even after maintenance
Who it's best for: Vacuum mops is an excellent floor-cleaning innovation for those who have small storage spaces and want to clean all different floors and messes with one tool.
In our Lab tests: The Dreame H12 Pro is an updated version of a previously tested pick with many of the same capabilities and features. We sent it out to consumer testers who confirmed it was easy and effective to use. One liked its speed, especially on hardwood floors, saying, “It honestly did all of the work and I barely had to fuss with a wet mop head or dry it off."
Why we love it: This two-in-one model sucks up both dry and wet spills and wash your floors all during the same cleaning session. Its edge-to-edge cleaning gets into corners and along baseboards, and a voice assistant provides cleaning and status updates. Improvements like a roller drying feature after self-cleaning and greater capacity in the dirty water tank make this model easier to care for, though some Amazon shoppers note that it can smell even if it hasn't sucked up anything smelly.
Weight: 10.5 lbs | Cord length: Cordless | Battery life/Run time: 35 minutes | Bag or bagless: Bagless | Dust cup capacity: 900 ml clean water tank and 700 ml dirty water tank | Cleaning modes: Auto mode, ultra mode, suction mode
Samsung Bespoke Jet AI Stick Vacuum Cleaner with Clean Station
Pros
- Long run time
- Self-emptying for less dust
- Adjusts suction and speed to flooring type
Cons
- Expensive
- Comes with only one battery
Who it's best for: If you're tired of cleaning the dust bin of a bagless vacuum and you're willing to spend big bucks on a vacuum, you'll love this self-emptying model with high-tech features.
In our Lab tests: The Samsung ran for well over an hour, had excellent pick-up power and used AI technology to automatically adjust the suction and brush roll speed to the flooring type. Three cleaning modes — min, mid and max — adapt it to different carpet pile heights and densities.
Why we love it: The Samsung Bespoke Jet AI stick vacuum earned a spot in our most recent GH Best Cleaning & Organizing Awards thanks to its sensors and artificial intelligence that select the best power mode. These AI features spike the price of this model, but we think its well worth it for effectively cleaning multiple floor and carpet types throughout a home. Plus, the vacuum self-empties, runs for over an hour and is excellent at self-emptying. And I love that this model automatically closes the dustbin door once it's empty. When the bag is full, simply toss and replace it.
The Samsung comes with extra dust bags and an assortment of attachments, though I wish it came with an extra battery for an even longer run time.
Weight: 6.3 lbs | Cord length: Cordless | Battery life/Run time: Up to 100 minutes | Bag or bagless: Bagless | Dust cup capacity: 0.5 gallons | Cleaning modes: Automatically adjusts to carpet or hardwood; offers mid, min and low speeds
Worx 20V Cordless Cube Compact Vacuum Cleaner
Pros
- Rinsable HEPA filter
- Removable and replaceable battery
- Quiet
Cons
- Some pet hair clung to the brush attachment in testing
Who it's best for: You can walk around and vacuum cars, sofas, outdoor furniture, hard-to-reach places, shelves and more with this powerful handheld model.
In our Lab tests: Worx beat 18 other handheld vacuums to earn the top overall score across tests on carpet, bare floors and pet hair pickup. Though we rated it highly across all of our testing categories, we did note that pet hair clung to the brush attachment. Its dust cup is small, but it empties from the bottom with the click of one button.
The Worx cordless cube ran for 23 minutes on low speed in our Lab tests but can run for longer with a higher-capacity battery from the brand. Although it's a little heavier than other handheld vacuums, you don't need to hold it to use it. It's quiet and all of its tools store on board.
Why we love it: Not your typical handheld vac design, the Worx has a unique boxy shape, a removable battery that fits into other Worx tools and a top handle for easy toting. It's a great option for a car vacuum for those reasons.
Weight: 3 lbs | Cord length: Cordless | Battery life/Run time: 10 minutes (high speed) or up to 25 minutes (low speed) | Bag or bagless: Bagless | Dust cup capacity: 0.18 L | Cleaning modes: High speed and low speed
Miele Complete C3 Canister Vacuum
Pros
- Five power settings
- HEPA filter
- Works on all carpet heights and densities
- Metal telescoping wands
Cons
- Small wheels may get caught in high-pile carpet
- Can be heavy for some to carry
Who it's best for: Designed to last for years, this Miele canister vacuum does an excellent job of picking up and trapping dust and dirt.
In our Lab tests: This Miele model comes equipped with a parquet floor brush, sturdy metal telescoping wands and a motorized brush roll with headlights. And it offers five different suction settings to clean everything from delicate drapes and lampshades to plush, high-pile carpets. It is one of the most expensive canister vacuums we’ve tested, but it is a favorite in our Lab and will last for years, preventing you from needing to replace it down-the-line.
Why we love it: The high-filtration dust bag and HEPA AirClean filter help keep dust from being released back into the air. The power cord is retractable and all of the included tools can be stored in the canister. According to some online reviewers, its small wheels can get caught when pulling the vacuum along, and it clocks in at over 20 pounds making carrying it upstairs difficult for some.
Weight: 23 lbs | Cord length: 24 ft. | Battery life/Run time: N/A | Bag or bagless: Bag | Dust cup capacity: 4.5 L dust bag | Cleaning modes: Curtains, upholstery, deep pile carpet, energy-saving, loop pile carpet, hard flooring
iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum
Pros
- Best dry pick-up and spot cleaning robot in our tests
- Automatically empties dirt into its bin
- Doesn't clog with pet hair
Cons
- Had trouble navigating around small objects
- Expensive
Who it's best for: If you have a busy schedule and no time to clean your floors, this is our favorite robot vacuum. It can suck up dry debris, spot clean small areas and pick up pet hair, all while remembering floor layouts.
In our Lab tests: Robot vacuums are getting better, smarter and more self-sufficient all the time, and iRobot's Roomba remains one of the top performers in our GH Cleaning Lab tests. This Roomba S9+ picked up 99% of the dry oatmeal, sand, small screws and other debris we spread on hard floors.
Why we love it: It maps and remembers multiple rooms and floor plans and it beat all other robot vacuums in our test at quickly and effectively spot-cleaning a small area. This robot vac is pricey but has high-end features like carpet detection to automatically ramp up suction when needed and dual rubber roller brushes that don’t clog with pet hair. Plus, when the battery is running low, the vacuum returns to its charging base, empties into a sealed large-capacity bag for mess-free disposal and resumes cleaning where it left off.
Through the app, you can set up cleaning schedules, no-go zones and more. While the S9+ can maneuver around large obstacles, it struggles with low, small items like cords, and it doesn't wet mop.
Weight: 8.2 lbs (robot only) | Cord length: Cordless (dock is corded) | Battery life/Run time: 75 minutes | Bag or bagless: Bagless (bag in charging base) | Dust cup capacity: Charging base holds up to 60 days worth of debris | Cleaning modes: Spot clean, scheduled clean and regular cleaning mode
Dreame L10s Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo
Pros
- Base washes and dries the mopping pads after a cleaning task
- Floor cleaning solution included with robot
- Dust bin fully empties into the base
Cons
- Pricey
Who it's best for: Those who live in a large home and are interested in robot vacuums should consider this Dreame model, which has a long runtime, generous dust bin and a superb maneuverability.
In our Lab tests: Self-emptying bases are all the rage now, and in our tests, the L10s managed to empty all of the hair and debris in the vacuum into its base without clogging or leaving anything behind in the brush roll. I love the easy-to-use app that allows you to schedule cleanings and view the progress from a camera that is attached to the vacuum. This vacuum also came in second out of 10 vacuums for maneuverability.
Why we love it: We've tested many Dreame stick vacuums, robots and vacuum mops in the GH Cleaning Lab and can confidently say that it's one of our favorite brands because it performs well for the price in multiple categories, including robot vacuums, vacuum-mop combos and mops for hardwood floors.
This L10s combination robot vacuums and mops floors all in one cleaning session. And rather than using just plain water, it comes with the brand's own cleaning solution, which fits inside the charging base and dispenses automatically. The mop pads spin to scrub floors clean, and the robot seamlessly switches between bare floors and carpet without getting the carpet wet. The only hiccup is that it's pricey.
Weight: 8.1 lbs (robot only) | Cord length: Cordless | Battery life/Run time: 210 minutes | Bag or bagless: Bagless | Dust cup capacity: 3 L | Cleaning modes: Three Water Usage Modes, mop-cleaning and drying, hard and carpeted flooring
How we test vacuum cleaners
In the Good Housekeeping Cleaning Lab, we have tested hundreds of different vacuum cleaners including the best self-empty robot vacuums, top-performing HEPA vacuums, best-in-class car vacuums and more.
We're constantly getting new samples in for testing, and as a member of ASTM International's F11 Vacuum Cleaner Committee, we meet twice yearly with engineers and technical representatives from all brands to help develop and shape the vacuum cleaner test standards we all use to assess performance, ease of use, durability and more.
All vacuums are tested exactly the same way for more accurate performance comparisons, and our tests are based on the ASTM International industry standard test methods.
With a custom-built, automated machine (pictured) that makes the same number of passes over the same test carpeting, we objectively measure how well each vacuum removes dirt deeply embedded into medium-pile carpet. We even have a separate machine to clean the carpets between test runs so one result won't influence the next.
We look at how well the vacuums remove large and small debris, like gritty sand and dried orzo pasta, from hard flooring, how well they clean along edges and how much suction they draw through the tools. We use industry-standard rayon fibers to simulate pet hair that we evenly spread on a carpet’s surface to see how well each machine cleans it up.
In addition to performance testing, we test for ease of use of each vacuum cleaner. This testing includes evaluating maneuverability, battery run-time for cordless vacuum cleaners, the ease of the controls and how simple it is to empty and clean the dust cup or change the bag. We also factor in the weight of each model. All special features and claims are assessed, and we even give the tool storage and owner's manual a grade.
Because maneuverability can be different from one consumer to the next, we have consumer testers rate the vacuums’ maneuverability by running them on a bare floor and carpet, around corners and under furniture. They rate the ease of removing the dust cups or bags and the ease of operating the vacuums’ controls. We also test any other features like battery charge indicators, brush roll control buttons and other tools and accessories.
How to find the right vacuum cleaner for your home
Unfortunately, there isn’t a single, universal vacuum that’s perfect for everyone, but there are some things to consider to help you make the best decision.
✔️ Bag or bagless: Both types clean well in our Cleaning Lab tests. Bagless models come with a dust cup and filter that needs frequent emptying and cleaning. The advantage is that you don’t have to stock up on bags or ever worry about running out of them. They can be messy to clean and empty, though, and may not be the best choice for those with dust allergies. Bagged vacuums are easier and neater to maintain and are great for allergy sufferers since all dust and allergens remain sealed in the dust bag. All you do is toss the bag when it’s about ⅔ full. You do need to keep a supply of replacement bags on hand.
✔️ Cord or cordless: Decide whether you want a vacuum with a cord, which can limit how far you can vacuum until you need to find another outlet, or if you prefer cordless, which has a battery life you'll need to monitor. You can also opt for a robot vacuum, which does the cleaning for you and goes back to recharge on its own when it’s time, but the charging base must remain connected to a power outlet and should not be moved so the robot knows how to get back to it after cleaning.
✔️ Attachments: The handy attachments that come along with your vacuum are equally important. A motorized power nozzle can help you clean carpets and rugs more efficiently, while a crevice tool can help you reach tough spots that tend to collect dust, such as behind a couch or dresser. There are also tools such as a mini-turbo brush that work wonders when it comes to getting your pet’s hair off furniture.
✔️ Battery life and dust cup: Let the size of your home guide you. If you live in a small apartment, you can consider a corded vacuum or one that doesn’t need as much battery life; if you have multiple floors, you'll want a longer run time and a bigger dust cup. If you have stairs, you’ll need a vacuum that can easily go up and down each step all while picking up dirt and dust. If you have a lot of carpet in your bedrooms, an upright vacuum cleaner or canister with a rotating brush roll will do the best job, whereas a vacuum cleaner with soft bristles or a brush roll that can be turned off is better suited for hardwood floors.
✔️ Cleaning modes: Consider a vacuum with various cleaning modes if you like the option to fully customize your cleaning experience or you're looking for one product that can clean multiple floor types. Plus, different cleaning modes (like Eco) have longer or shorter battery run times with less or more powerful suction. This can be helpful when you're trying to vacuum larger floor areas versus suck up a specific mess in one small area.
✔️ Weight: Lastly, the weight of a vacuum makes all the difference when lifting it up and down the stairs and around the house. A heavier, larger option may be great for power and durability, but it's not ideal if you live in a multi-level home or want to vacuum hard-to-reach places.
What is the best type of vacuum cleaner to buy?
✔️ Choose an upright vacuum cleaner if:
- Your home is mostly wall-to-wall carpeting and all on one floor. In our Cleaning Lab tests, upright vacuum cleaners do the best job of removing ground-in, embedded dirt from carpeting because they are usually heavier than other styles, and the weight of the nozzle helps them reach deep into the carpet pile for better cleaning. Uprights can weigh anywhere from 10 to over 20 pounds, which can be heavy to carry up and down stairs. If your home has more than one level and you prefer an upright, consider keeping one on each floor.
- You’ll be using an upright vacuum to clean bare floors and low-pile rugs, we recommend selecting a model where you can adjust the height of the nozzle and switch off the rotating brush to avoid damaging flat and delicate surfaces or scattering debris. Most uprights feature onboard hoses, wands and tools for vacuuming crevices and upholstery and cleaning above-the-floor spaces like door frames and crown moldings.
✔️ Opt for a canister vacuum cleaner if:
- Your home has lots of stairs and bare floors. Many full-size canister vacuums come with a power nozzle that has a rotating brush to mimic that of an upright. We recommend this attachment if you prefer a canister and have deep pile carpets in, say, just the bedrooms. Otherwise, you’ll use a long flat attachment or brush that can be used on bare floors and low, flat rugs.
- You're looking for a vacuum that is easier to maneuver into tight spaces and use on stairs than uprights are. The canister and motor can be placed out of the way, making it easier to carry and use. Plus, all have hoses and attachments for dusting, upholstery and crevices.
✔️ Consider a stick vacuum cleaner if:
- You are looking for a lightweight, quick picker-upper for bare floors and low-pile rugs. The cleaning performance of this type of vacuum is getting better and better, and it may be the only vac some homes require.
- You have minimal storage space. Most are slim enough to stash in a corner or closet for speedy clean-ups. They come corded or cordless, and in our Cleaning Lab tests, we’ve found rechargeable ones usually run up to one hour, so you’ll need to keep them plugged into an outlet to keep them fully charged and ready to go. Second batteries are also helpful so you always have a backup.
- You are looking for a two-in-one option. Most have rotating brushes for efficient floor and rug cleaning, and many convert to or have a hand vacuum on board so it’s like having two vacuums in one. Most come with attachments, like dusting brushes, crevice tools and charging stands for storage.
✔️ Go with a robot vacuum cleaner if:
- You want to get your cleaning done while you’re out of the house or doing something else. Robot vacuums use cameras and lasers to map their way around your rooms, so they don’t miss a spot. Today’s robots are more sophisticated than ever. Most can be controlled with an app on your phone, and some are even voice-enabled. Many can return to the home base for a recharge and then go back to cleaning wherever they left off.
- You want a robot vacuum as a maintenance cleaner in between cleaning sessions with a full-size vacuum. Robot models fit easily under most beds and furniture to clean the spots you likely skip.
✔️ Pick a handheld vacuum cleaner if:
- You need a compact tool to quickly clean up dry spills on bare floors and surfaces or to nab lint, pet hair and other debris on fabrics or carpeting. Some come with hoses and attachments; others can pick up wet spills too.
- You want a vacuum to clean your car. Handheld vacuums come corded or cordless and are easy to take outside to clean car floors and seating.
What is a HEPA filter?
A HEPA filter is a special high-performance filter that traps 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns in size — too small to see with the naked eye, but not too small to be felt by allergy sufferers. A HEPA filter on a vacuum cleaner is best located on the exhaust, where the air blows out of the vacuum and back into the room. Dust, pollen, pet dander, smoke and more are all caught by these high-efficiency filters that are also found on air purifiers, and since HEPA filters are available on many upright, canister and stick vacuums, it’s relatively easy to find a model to fit your needs.
Be wary of vacuums with “HEPA-type” or “HEPA-like” filters. They may look like traditional pleated HEPA filters and likely will trap some small particles, but they could miss the tiny, microscopic ones that can't escape a true HEPA filter. Vacuums with HEPA filters are generally more expensive. Less expensive vacuums can be sealed and have filters that grab 99% of particles down to 0.5 microns, but only a HEPA filter nabs 99.97% of particles as tiny as 0.3 microns (and yes, that can make a difference!).
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Carolyn Forté has tested and reviewed hundreds of vacuum cleaners, carpet cleaners, mops and other major (and minor) home appliances as executive director of the Home Care Lab. She oversees all testing done in the Cleaning Lab and recently tested all of the handheld, stick, upright and canister vacuums that were submitted for consideration in the most recent Cleaning and Organizing Awards. She is an active member of the ASTM Committee on vacuum cleaners and chairman of the consumer information sub-committee.
Carolyn selected all of the picks for this round-up and advised the Cleaning Lab's former reviews analyst, Jodhaira Rodriguez, during the testing of wet-dry vacuum and mop combo devices, one of which was included in this list of the best vacuums. Rodriguez updated this story with notes from other Lab analysts’ extensive testing and research notes.
Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.
From 2021 to 2023, Jodhaira (she/her) was a product reviews analyst in the Good Housekeeping Institute’s Home Care & Cleaning Lab, where she tested and wrote about home appliances, cleaning products and cleaning tips. Prior to joining GH, she graduated from Hofstra University with a bachelor’s degree in forensic science and spent two years as an analyst in an environmental lab in Queens.
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