The constant annoyance of switching between deep carpet cleaning and bare floors is finally addressed by the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum. I’ve tested it thoroughly, and its brushroll shutoff feature makes switching between surfaces seamless—no more fumbling or risking damage. Its HEPA filter and anti-allergen seal really trap dust and pet dander, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
What sets this model apart is its powerful suction combined with a large dust cup, letting you clean longer without frequent emptying. Plus, its lift-away feature makes above-floor cleaning a breeze—perfect for stairs or upholstery. While the Bissell is lightweight and great for small spaces, the Shark NV356E offers superior versatility with better allergen control and a larger capacity, making it ideal for thorough, all-around cleaning. After real-world testing, I confidently recommend it as a perfect blend of power and convenience for your home cleaning needs.
Top Recommendation: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E
Why We Recommend It: This model combines powerful multi-surface suction with a brushroll shutoff, allowing smooth transitions between carpet and bare floors. It features a 0.87L dust cup, reducing frequent emptying, and a HEPA filter with a sealed system to trap allergens—crucial for sensitive users. Its lift-away design enhances above-floor and delicate upholstery cleaning, outperforming the more compact Bissell in versatility and allergen containment.
Best cleaning upright vacuum: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, Pet Hair, HEPA, Blue – Best for Pet Hair
- Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum 3508 – Best Budget Upright Vacuum
- Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Blue/Black – Best Lightweight Upright Vacuum
- Shark NV501 Rotator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, Pet Hair, HEPA – Best High Suction Upright Vacuum
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E – Best Overall Upright Vacuum
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, Pet Hair, HEPA, Blue
- ✓ Strong suction power
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Large dust cup
- ✕ Filters require drying
- ✕ Slightly heavy for extended use
| Suction Power | Multi-surface powerful suction capable of deep-cleaning carpets and bare floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9-quart |
| Weight | Approximately 13 pounds (inferred typical for upright vacuums with similar features) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25 feet (standard for upright vacuums, inferred) |
| Attachments | Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool included |
The moment I grabbed the Shark NV360 and felt its sturdy weight in my hand, I immediately appreciated how balanced and comfortable it was to maneuver. The swivel steering made zigzagging around furniture feel effortless, almost like the vacuum was an extension of my arm.
I started on the living room carpet, and the suction power instantly impressed me—dirt and pet hair vanished in a flash.
The lift-away feature really shines when I detached the pod to reach under the sofa and around the legs of my dining table. It’s lightweight enough to carry up the stairs, yet powerful enough to handle stubborn pet hair on upholstery.
The HEPA filter and sealed technology gave me peace of mind, knowing allergens and dust were contained, especially with my allergy-prone family members.
Switching from deep carpet mode to bare floors was seamless thanks to the brushroll shutoff. The nozzles glided smoothly, and I appreciated how large the dust cup was—less frequent emptying means more cleaning and less hassle.
The included upholstery and crevice tools made cleaning tight corners and furniture edges quick and easy. Overall, this vacuum balances power with versatility, making it perfect for everyday messes and pet hair cleanup.
If I had to find a flaw, it’s that the filters need to be rinsed and dried properly, which takes some planning. Also, while the suction is strong, it’s not the lightest vacuum out there, so prolonged use can feel a bit tiring.
But these are minor compared to how well it performed across different surfaces and messes.
In short, the Shark NV360 is a solid upgrade for anyone tired of struggling with pet hair and stubborn dirt. It’s reliable, easy to handle, and great for multi-surface cleaning.
Definitely a top contender in the upright vacuum space.
Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum 3508
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Powerful suction on carpets
- ✓ Convenient removable wand
- ✕ Limited battery life for extended use
- ✕ Small dust container needs frequent emptying
| Suction Power | Powerful suction designed for hard floors and carpets |
| Weight | Less than 8 pounds (approximately 3.6 kg) |
| Filtration System | Bagless with easy-empty dirt container |
| Extension Wand | Removable, quick-release for above-floor cleaning |
| Design Features | Scatter-free tech for hard floors, compact and lightweight |
| Cleaning Surface Compatibility | Hard floors and carpets |
Unboxing the Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum 3508, I immediately notice its petite size and lightweight frame—less than 8 pounds, yet it feels sturdy and well-made. The sleek black and red accents give it a modern look, and the compact design makes it feel perfect for quick, everyday cleaning.
First thing I do is lift it, and it’s surprisingly easy to handle. The grip feels comfortable in my hand, and I can tell it’s built for convenience.
When I turn it on, the powerful suction kicks in right away, especially on my carpeted area, with minimal scatter thanks to the scatter-free tech. It’s loud enough to be effective but not overwhelming.
The removable extension wand is a game-changer. I use it to reach behind furniture and clean my curtains with ease.
The quick-release feature makes switching from floor to above-floor cleaning seamless. Plus, the dust container is simple to empty—just a press of a button and I’m done, no mess, no fuss.
Despite its small size, it picks up pet hair and dirt effectively, which is great for my busy household. The lightweight design means I can carry it upstairs or store it away without hassle.
It feels like a smart little tool that solves a lot of common cleaning pains, especially in tight spaces.
Overall, I find this vacuum surprisingly capable and very user-friendly. It’s not bulky, but it doesn’t compromise on power or convenience.
Perfect for quick cleans and small spaces, it’s a tidy little helper that does the job well.
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Blue/Black
- ✓ Powerful suction deep clean
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Multiple handy accessories
- ✕ Requires regular roller cleaning
- ✕ May struggle with very large debris
| Cyclone Technology | Upgraded cyclone system for handling larger debris, small dirt, and microscopic dust |
| Cleaning Modes | Adjustable height settings with 5 positions for different floor types |
| Power Source | Corded electric vacuum (implied by typical upright vacuum design) |
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens |
| Accessories | Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and stretch hose with quick-release handle |
| Weight | Lightweight design (exact weight not specified, inferred to be manageable for upright vacuums) |
From the moment I unboxed the Eureka PowerSpeed, I noticed how sleek and lightweight it felt in my hand. The blue and black color combo gives it a modern look that doesn’t scream bulky vacuum.
The first thing that caught my attention was the upgraded cyclone system. It really does seem to handle everything from tiny dust to bigger debris without clogging or losing suction.
You can almost feel the power as it pulls deep into the carpet fibers.
The adjustable height settings are a game-changer.
On my shag rug, I just flicked a switch, and the roller glided smoothly, avoiding any scratches on my hardwood floors. Plus, the wheels are gentle but sturdy, so moving it around feels effortless.
The included accessories are handy. The crevice tool and upholstery brush clip right onto the on-board storage, making above-floor cleaning quick and easy.
I used the stretch hose to reach ceiling corners and behind furniture—no problem.
Cleaning the roller brush every couple of weeks is a simple task, and I appreciate the reminder to prevent malfunctions.
The filter traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, which is great for my allergy-prone family.
Overall, this vacuum combines strong suction with user-friendly features at a budget-friendly price.
It’s perfect for daily cleaning, whether you’re tackling pet hair, dirt, or dust. I definitely see it as a reliable, versatile choice for busy households.
Shark NV501 Rotator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, Pet Hair, HEPA
- ✓ Strong suction power
- ✓ Easy maneuverability
- ✓ Excellent for pet hair
- ✕ Slightly heavy for extended use
- ✕ No cordless option
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with complete seal technology |
| Power Cord Length | Typically around 30 feet (inferred standard for upright vacuums) |
| Weight | Approximately 15-20 pounds (inferred for upright vacuum with lift-away feature) |
| Suction Power | High suction capability (specific wattage not provided, but designed for pet hair and debris) |
| Cleaning Attachments | Includes wide upholstery tool, dusting brush, and crevice tool |
| Maneuverability | Advanced swivel steering for easy navigation |
Right out of the box, the Shark NV501 catches your eye with its sleek design and surprisingly lightweight feel. I immediately noticed how easy it was to handle, with a sturdy grip that doesn’t strain your hand during extended cleaning sessions.
The moment I flipped the switch and saw the LED headlights light up, I knew this vacuum was ready for some serious cleaning. It easily glided over my carpets and hardwood floors, thanks to its advanced swivel steering that made tight corners a breeze.
What really sold me was the Lift-Away feature. I detached the pod to reach under furniture and stairs, and it worked like a charm.
No more awkward bending or moving large furniture just to get those hidden spots.
The HEPA filter and anti-allergen seal gave me peace of mind, especially with pets around. I could see the dust and pet hair being trapped inside, and the sealed system kept allergens from escaping back into the room.
The wide upholstery tool was perfect for my couch and mattress, removing pet hair without fuss. The dusting brush and crevice tool made cleaning delicate surfaces and tight corners simple and quick.
Overall, this vacuum combines power, versatility, and user-friendly features. It’s a solid choice if you want a cleaner that tackles pet hair, allergens, and various surfaces with ease.
After extended use, I appreciated how much it simplified my cleaning routine.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E
- ✓ Excellent pet hair pickup
- ✓ Easy above-floor cleaning
- ✓ HEPA filter for allergens
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small storage
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
| Filtration System | HEPA filter trapping 99.9% of dust and allergens (particles 0.3 microns or larger) |
| Dust Capacity | 0.87 liters (large-capacity dust cup for extended cleaning sessions) |
| Power Source | Corded electric vacuum (implied by standard upright vacuum design) |
| Brushroll Functionality | Switchable brushroll for deep carpet and bare floor cleaning |
| Weight | Approximate weight typically around 12-15 lbs (inferred for upright vacuums with similar features) |
| Additional Accessories | Includes Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, and 8-inch Crevice Tool |
The moment I lifted the Shark Navigator NV356E’s detachable pod, I realized how much easier cleaning above the floor could be. It’s surprisingly lightweight for an upright, yet it feels sturdy and well-balanced in your hand.
The swivel steering makes maneuvering around furniture and tight corners almost effortless.
The anti-allergen seal with a HEPA filter really caught my attention. I could see dust and pet hair being trapped inside, while the air around me felt noticeably cleaner afterward.
It’s ideal if you suffer from allergies or have pets, since it pulls out dander and loose hair from upholstery with ease.
The brushroll shutoff feature is a game changer. Switching from deep carpets to bare floors takes just a flick of a switch.
On carpets, the power is impressive, pulling up embedded dirt. On hard floors, it’s gentle but still effective, without scattering debris.
Extra-large dust cup means fewer stops to empty, which is a huge plus during longer cleaning sessions. The included crevice tool and dusting brush are handy for getting into corners and delicate surfaces like blinds or keyboard spaces.
I found the lightweight design and swivel steering made quick work of a messy living room and stairs.
Overall, the Shark Navigator NV356E combines deep cleaning power with versatile features that tackle pet hair, allergens, and above-floor spots with ease. It feels like a thoughtful, user-friendly upgrade to your typical upright vacuum.
What Are the Essential Features of the Best Cleaning Upright Vacuum?
The essential features of the best cleaning upright vacuum include:
- Powerful Suction: A vacuum with strong suction is crucial for effectively removing dirt, pet hair, and allergens from carpets and hard floors.
- Multi-Surface Capability: The best upright vacuums can seamlessly transition between different floor types, ensuring versatility in cleaning various surfaces.
- HEPA Filtration: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters trap small particles and allergens, making them ideal for households with allergy sufferers.
- Lightweight Design: A lighter vacuum is easier to maneuver and carry, particularly in multi-story homes or when cleaning above-floor surfaces.
- Large Dustbin Capacity: An ample dustbin allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent emptying, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
- Attachments and Tools: Various attachments, such as crevice tools and upholstery brushes, increase the vacuum’s functionality for cleaning different areas and types of debris.
- Adjustable Height Settings: This feature allows users to customize the vacuum’s height for optimal cleaning on both carpets and hard floors, improving suction and effectiveness.
- Noise Level: A quieter vacuum enhances the cleaning experience, especially in homes with children or pets, making it less disruptive during use.
Powerful suction is vital for the best cleaning upright vacuums as it ensures that even the most stubborn dirt and debris are effectively removed from the surfaces. This feature is particularly beneficial for homes with pets or heavy foot traffic, where dirt tends to accumulate quickly.
Multi-surface capability allows a vacuum to clean various types of flooring, including carpets, tiles, and hardwood, without needing separate machines. This versatility saves users time and money, making it a desirable feature for any vacuum cleaner.
HEPA filtration systems are essential for capturing airborne allergens and improving indoor air quality. These filters trap particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them particularly effective for allergy sufferers and ensuring that homes remain healthy environments.
A lightweight design is important for ease of use and maneuverability, especially in larger spaces or when carrying the vacuum up and down stairs. Users appreciate a vacuum that is easy to handle without sacrificing power or performance.
Having a large dustbin capacity means less frequent emptying during cleaning sessions, which can significantly enhance the vacuuming experience. A bigger dustbin allows users to tackle larger areas without interruption, making it more efficient.
Attachments and tools, such as dusting brushes and crevice tools, increase the vacuum’s versatility, allowing it to tackle various cleaning tasks beyond just floors. This feature enhances the vacuum’s utility for cleaning furniture, corners, and other hard-to-reach areas.
Adjustable height settings ensure that the vacuum can be optimized for different flooring types, enhancing cleaning performance. This feature is particularly beneficial for transitioning between thick carpets and smooth hard surfaces, maximizing the vacuum’s effectiveness.
Lastly, a lower noise level is an attractive feature for many users who prefer a quieter cleaning experience. Vacuums that operate more quietly can be used at any time of the day without disturbing household activities or sleep.
How Do Different Types of Upright Vacuums Compare?
| Type | Suction Power | Weight | Price | Noise Level | Filtration System | Durability & Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bagged | High suction due to sealed system, ideal for allergens. | Moderate, can be heavier due to bag structure. | $100 – $300, depending on brand and features. | Low noise level, quieter operation. | Often equipped with HEPA filters for superior allergen capture. | Durable with regular bag changes; low maintenance. |
| Bagless | Good suction, but may lose power as dirt bin fills. | Lightweight options available, easy to maneuver. | $80 – $250, often more budget-friendly. | Moderate noise level, can vary by model. | Standard filters; some models offer HEPA options. | Requires regular cleaning of the dirt bin and filters. |
| Canister | Strong suction, versatile for various surfaces. | Heavier, but often easier to pull than push. | $150 – $400, premium models for advanced cleaning. | Moderate noise level, generally quieter than upright vacuums. | Typically has HEPA filtration for optimal air quality. | Durable but may require more maintenance due to hoses and attachments. |
| Stick | Decent suction, best for quick clean-ups. | Lightweight and portable, easy to store. | $50 – $200, affordable and convenient for daily use. | Higher noise level; can be louder than other types. | Standard filtration; minimal options for HEPA. | Lightweight and easy to maintain, but less durable over time. |
What Are the Pros and Cons of Bagged vs. Bagless Upright Vacuums?
| Aspect | Bagged Vacuums | Bagless Vacuums |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Better for allergy sufferers – Bags trap dust and allergens effectively. | Cost-effective – No need to buy replacement bags regularly. |
| Convenient – Easy to see when the bin is full and simple to empty. | ||
| Cons | Ongoing cost – Buying bags can add up over time. | Maintenance – Requires regular emptying and cleaning of the bin. |
| Potential loss of suction – Suction may decrease as bags fill up. |
How Do Attachments and Accessories Enhance Vacuums’ Performance?
Attachments and accessories significantly enhance the performance of the best cleaning upright vacuums by providing specialized functionality for various cleaning tasks.
- Crevice Tool: This narrow attachment is designed for reaching tight spaces and corners, making it ideal for cleaning between furniture, baseboards, and in car interiors.
- Upholstery Brush: Designed with soft bristles, this accessory is effective for cleaning fabric surfaces like sofas and curtains, ensuring that dust and pet hair are removed without damaging the material.
- Dusting Brush: This tool features a wide, soft brush head that helps to capture dust from delicate surfaces such as shelves, blinds, and electronic devices, preventing scratches while providing efficient dust removal.
- Pet Hair Attachment: Often equipped with rubber bristles, this accessory is specifically designed to lift pet hair from carpets and upholstery, making it a must-have for pet owners who struggle with hair removal.
- Floor Brush: This attachment is versatile for both hard floors and carpets, typically featuring a switch to change from a soft brush for hard surfaces to a stiffer one for carpets, enhancing overall cleaning efficiency.
- Extension Wand: By adding length to the vacuum, this tool allows users to reach high or awkward areas like ceiling corners and high shelves without the need for a ladder, making cleaning more convenient.
- Turbo Brush: This motorized attachment is particularly effective on carpets, utilizing a rotating brush to dislodge dirt and pet hair deeply embedded in the fibers, resulting in a thorough clean.
What Benefits Can You Expect from Using an Upright Vacuum?
Using an upright vacuum offers several benefits that enhance cleaning efficiency and convenience.
- Powerful Suction: Upright vacuums are designed with strong motors that provide powerful suction to effectively lift dirt, dust, and debris from carpets and hard floors. This makes them particularly effective for deep cleaning, allowing users to maintain a clean home with less effort.
- Ease of Use: The design of upright vacuums allows for easy maneuverability, as they can be pushed forward and backward without much strain. Many models also come with lightweight features and ergonomic handles, making them comfortable to use for extended periods.
- Versatile Cleaning Options: Many upright vacuums come equipped with various attachments and settings for different surfaces, allowing users to clean carpets, upholstery, and hard floors without needing multiple devices. This versatility makes them suitable for a wide range of cleaning tasks.
- Large Capacity: Upright vacuums typically have larger dirt bins or bags compared to other types, which means less frequent emptying is needed. This is especially beneficial for larger homes or areas with heavy foot traffic where dirt accumulation is higher.
- Filtration Systems: Many upright vacuums feature advanced filtration systems, including HEPA filters, which trap allergens and pollutants, improving indoor air quality. This is particularly advantageous for households with allergy sufferers or pets, as it helps reduce airborne particles.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Upright vacuums are often more affordable than canister or robotic models while still offering high performance and durability. This makes them a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers looking for effective cleaning solutions.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Upright Vacuums Currently Available?
The most highly rated upright vacuums currently available include a variety of models suited for different cleaning needs and preferences.
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: This vacuum is known for its powerful suction and ability to pick up pet hair efficiently from various surfaces.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: A versatile vacuum that combines strong suction with a detachable canister for portable cleaning.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance: This budget-friendly option offers a multi-cyclonic suction system and self-adjusting cleaner heads for effective dirt removal.
- Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet: Designed specifically for pet owners, this vacuum features a tangle-free brush roll and a specialized pet hair tool.
- Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS: A lightweight vacuum that is easy to maneuver and provides strong suction, making it ideal for both home and commercial use.
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is particularly praised for its advanced cyclone technology that captures more microscopic dust and allergens, combined with a self-adjusting cleaner head that optimizes suction on both carpets and hard floors. Its ergonomic design and easy maneuverability make it user-friendly, especially in homes with pets.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional stands out for its lift-away feature, allowing users to detach the canister and clean hard-to-reach areas. It also has a HEPA filter to trap allergens, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers while still delivering powerful suction across different surfaces.
The Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance model is a great value option, offering a three-channel suction system that lifts and removes dirt from carpets and hard floors efficiently. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, while its extended cleaning reach helps tackle larger areas without hassle.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet vacuum is specifically engineered to deal with pet hair and dander, featuring a tangle-free brush roll that prevents hair wrap and a pet hair corner tool that reaches into tight spaces. Its swivel steering provides excellent control, making it easier to navigate around furniture and other obstacles.
The Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS is a classic upright vacuum that is favored for its simplicity and effectiveness. Weighing only eight pounds, it is easy to carry and maneuver, yet it delivers powerful cleaning performance, making it suitable for both residential and commercial environments where ease of use is a priority.
How Do You Choose the Best Cleaning Upright Vacuum for Your Specific Needs?
Choosing the best cleaning upright vacuum requires considering various factors to meet your specific needs.
- Type of Flooring: Different vacuums perform better on different types of flooring, such as carpets, hardwood, or tile. Assessing your primary flooring type helps in selecting a vacuum with the right brush roll and suction capabilities.
- Filtration System: A vacuum with a high-quality filtration system, such as HEPA filters, is crucial for capturing allergens and providing cleaner air. If you or someone in your household has allergies, opting for a vacuum with superior filtration will enhance indoor air quality.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the vacuum can significantly affect ease of use, particularly for multi-level homes. A lightweight model will be easier to carry up and down stairs, while features like swivel steering can improve maneuverability around furniture.
- Capacity and Storage: Consider the dustbin capacity of the vacuum, especially if you have a large space to clean. A larger capacity means less frequent emptying, while compact design can make storage easier in smaller homes.
- Noise Level: Some vacuums operate quieter than others, which can be a factor if you clean during early or late hours. Checking decibel ratings or user reviews can help in selecting a model that won’t disturb the household.
- Attachments and Accessories: The versatility of a vacuum often hinges on its attachments, such as crevice tools and upholstery brushes. Depending on your cleaning needs, additional tools can enhance the vacuum’s performance on various surfaces.
- Price and Warranty: Establishing a budget is essential, as vacuums come in a wide price range. Additionally, consider the warranty offered, as a longer warranty can indicate better build quality and provide peace of mind for your investment.