I use my handheld vacuum daily and can’t imagine life without it.
When shopping for a handheld vacuum cleaner, there is no need to be overwhelmed. This guide will teach you what features to compare and how to find the right handheld vacuum cleaner for you.
Handheld vacuum cleaners became household staples in the 80’s after the release of Black+Decker’s Dustbuster (there is even one in the Smithsonian National Museum of American History). I dreamed of owning a Dustbuster as a child and not having to sweep under the table after dinner. I use my handheld vacuum daily and can’t imagine life without it.
The technology of handheld vacuums has improved, as well as the options, over the years. One thing hasn’t changed; handheld vacuum cleaners can still make cleaning easier and faster.
Here are the best selection of handheld vacuum cleaners from Amazon.com
Benefits of Handheld Vacuum Cleaners
Handheld vacuum cleaners can make quick work of a dirty project. They are compact, lightweight, and easy to carry from room-to-room. Handheld vacuums are less clumsy than a standard vacuum when cleaning life’s messes, couch cushions, or stairs.
A key selling feature for many owners is the cordless design and portability. Most handheld vacuum cleaners include a mountable charging station for added convenience.
Handheld Vacuum Cleaners Features
Not all handheld vacuum cleaners are created equally. Take the time to review the product description when shopping and determine if the features meet your needs.
Dustbowl
How much dirt, dust, and dander can the vacuum hold before it needs to be emptied? Is the dustbowl easy to empty? Look for a dust bowl that won’t make a mess of your freshly cleaned area.
Filter
The purpose of a vacuum filter is to separate microscopic particles that are too small for the dust bowl and could damage the motor (just like the filter on your furnace). Can the filter be washed or do you need to purchase a replacement? Is the filter HEPA to help trap more allergens?
Vacuum filters should be changed or cleaned according to the manufacturer’s suggestions.
Weight
Is the vacuum easy to manage with one hand? A key benefit of handheld vacuum cleaners is their portability, but if it’s too heavy to carry, it isn’t helping.
Tools
Does the vacuum have attachments that fit into tight crevices or that are safe for upholstery? Are the tools safe and won’t scratch hardwood floors? Are the attachments compatible with your regular vacuum?
A crevice tool is handy for cleaning vehicles. A motorized brush is ideal for cleaning up pet hair, upholstery, or carpet.
Battery
Will the battery life meet your desired usage? What is the average battery life? What is the battery life if used in “maximum” power mode? Is the battery easy to connect to the charger?
Lithium batteries are a bonus since the battery will not lose life while remaining charged in the docking station.
Suction
A vacuum with little to no suction power is not a vacuum worth owning. Depending on what information the manufacturer provides, look for CFM 50 to 100 or higher Watts or Amps (more power equals more suction).
Cordless
My favorite feature of a handheld vacuum is the convenience of wandering around the house and stairs without a cord. Cordless vacuums are perfect for mobile, multi-surface jobs that last between 10-15 minutes. When you have a small mess on your kitchen floor, the last thing you want to do is drag out your full-size vacuum, unwrap the cord, clean, and then wrap the cord back up.
Corded handheld vacuums are also available. Corded options eliminate the concern of a battery dying before the area is clean.
What Type of Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Do You Need?
Your intended usage of a handheld vacuum cleaner can help you filter the available options. Do you have pets? Need to vacuum stairs? Do you need a stick attachment? Will you be vacuuming upholstery or hard services?
Pet-Friendly
Vacuums labeled as “pet-friendly” have more power than a standard vacuum. They are designed to suck up pet hair more efficiently than other vacuums. Pet-friendly vacuums are invented to help pet owners remove hair without clogging the unit and damaging the motor.
Stick Vacuum
Stick handheld vacuums make quick and easy work of vacuuming floors and stairs, without breaking your back. Most stick cordless vacuum are convertible with a removable stick and attachments making it a true multi-purpose tool.
Upholstery
A basic handheld vacuum without bristles works well on the floor, but not on upholstery. An upholstery attachment has bristles to loosen up dirt, crumbs, and hair from your couch or carpet.
Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Shopping Guide
When purchasing any household appliance, it pays to do your research. Know what features of a handheld vacuum cleaner are important to you. Filter results based on key features and your budget. Customer reviews and ratings can help clarify and verify the features that are essential to you.
The Classic: Black+Decker Dustbuster
The original handheld vacuum cleaner is a still viable option today. The Dustbuster filter is designed to be washed and reused. The clear dust bowl has a 13 oz capacity allowing you to quickly see when it’s getting full. Customers love how easy it is to empty the dust bowl.
This unit contains a brush (no spinning bristles) and a crevice tool for getting into corners. The iconic Dustbuster handheld vacuum weighs just over 2 lbs.
Stick Vacuum: Dyson V7 Animal Pro+ Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
The V7 includes 5 additional attachments that are all stored on the docking station. Battery runs for 30 minutes, but only 6 minutes if used at max power. The filtration system claims to collect 99.97% of particles. This unit weights considerably more than traditional styled handheld vacuums (over 13 lbs., including all attachments).
The Dyson V7 quickly and easily converts from a stick vacuum to a traditional handheld, but those options come with a hefty price tag compared to other handheld vacuums.
Upholstery: Shark Cordless Pet Perfect Lithium-Ion (LV801) Handheld Vacuum
The 3” wide motorized bristle brush on this vacuum can tackle hair and dirt alike from furniture, vehicles, and carpets. The vacuum can be used without the motorized brush for general pick-ups. Also includes crevice tool. Although initial charge takes 6 hours, customers rave about the consistent and powerful suction. This powerful, multi-use handheld vacuum only weighs 2.48 lbs.
**The Shark LV801 is a best buy for price, customer reviews, and functionality.**
Pet-Friendly: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser 33A1
The Pet Hair Eraser is the only corded option on this list. The removable rubber nozzle removes pet hair and dander from furniture, carpet, and stairs.
Customers love the ease of use and the long 16-foot cord.
Handheld Vacuum Care
Use the Battery
Take advantage of the portability of your handheld vacuum and, on occasion, take it around the house to drain the battery. Some users report better performance if the battery is occasionally drained and recharged. Note: A complete battery recharge can take 2-6 hours, based on the unit.
Empty the Dust Bowl
Pay attention to the “max line” on your dust bowl. If the dust bowl is too full, your vacuum will not operate at maximum suction power and can damage the filter.
Clean the Filter
Follow manufacturer recommendations for the frequency of cleaning the filter. A clean filter can extend the life of your motor. Wait until the reusable filter is completely dry before using the handheld vacuum. Note: Some handheld vacuums filters are not washable and should be replaced.
That’s all for now. I need to go vacuum.
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