8 TOP CANISTER VACUUMS FOR 2023 REVIEWED BY CLEANING PROFESSIONALS
A canister vacuum is your best option if your home has both carpeted and bare floors, there are many stairs, or if you want to use your vacuum and its attachments to collect dust and grime from surfaces above the floor (like upholstered furniture, window blinds, and lampshades).
Both canister and upright vacuums perform well in terms of cleaning, but canister vacuums stand out for their adaptability and flexibility due to the weight distribution between the canister and powerhead. In all honesty, canister vacuums work best for cleaning low pile and looped carpets and area rugs, as well as wood, tile, and other hard surfaces, when equipped with a bare floor brush. They are also simple to carry with two hands. The products we've chosen below are recent test winners, updated versions of models we've already tested, or products from well-known manufacturers.
Stick vacuums, HEPA vacuums, robot vacuums, vacuums for pet hair, and a broad variety of other vacuum types have all been put to the test by the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab over the years. To evaluate how successfully each model picks up waste, we use specialized test equipment and industry-recognized ASTM International testing. We cover bare floors and carpets with dirt and fake pet fur. To assess the effectiveness of attachments like crevice tools, suction power at the hose end is assessed. Additionally, we evaluate each Hoover to see how well it captures allergens and how easy it is to move around obstructions and different types of floors. We also consider the ease of use of the controls and the weight of how easy it is to change bags, empty dust bins, clean filters, and any additional specific features each Hoover might offer.
OUR TOP PICKS:
1. MIELE COMPLETE C3 KONA CANISTER VACUUM
PROS
High-filtration bag and HEPA filter trap allergens
The brush roll adjusts to different levels
Comes with an attachment for smooth floors
CONS
Replacement bags and filters are pricey
Weight:23 lbs.
Cord length: 24 ft
Attachments: Upholstery nozzle, dusting brush, crevice tool, parquet floorhead, electro plus powerhead
For their exceptional performance and cutting-edge design features, Miele's vacuums consistently outperform the competition in our cleaning tests, and this Good Housekeeping Seal star is no exception. The Miele Complete C3 has a power nozzle that may change the brush roll to various levels because the dense tufts of exceptionally soft or plush carpets frequently make pushing a hoover harder. It made slicing through plush pile rugs easier, according to our tests. Additionally, it has a number of attachments and suction levels to handle a range of cleaning tasks. Many vacuums release dust into the atmosphere through body cracks and crevices, and certain bagless types might be difficult to empty without spewing forth a dust cloud. Both of those difficulties are resolved by this Miele. The dust is collected using a self-sealing, high-filtration bag. After it is filled, all you have to do is discard it. Along with a HEPA AirClean filter on the exhaust that prevents 99.99% of fine dust and allergens from being released back into the air, the complete vacuum is sealed to prevent leaks. In our tests, Miele vacuums perform best in terms of sucking up dust and grime as well as maintaining the particles inside the vacuum. They are therefore our top choice for people who suffer from allergies.
2. EUREKA MIGHTY MITE 3670G CORDED CANISTER VACUUM
PROS
Most affordable of all picks
Lightweight
Compact size
CONS
No HEPA filter
Weight: 9 pounds
Cord Length: 20 feet
Attachments: Straight suction floor nozzle, combination dusting tool
Apartment dwellers and college students frequently lack the space for a full-size canister vacuum, but this cost-effective vacuum is powerful, lightweight equipment. We adore how lightweight and portable it is—weighing less than 9 pounds—and how tiny it is for simple storage. More than 8,700 people have given it a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, praising it for being simple to carry up and down stairs and for having two wand attachments with an outstanding pick-up in hard-to-reach locations. This model performed admirably in our tests and has been a staple of the Eureka line for a long time, so something must be working in its favor. On bare flooring, it works well for short cleanup tasks. It has a blower port for blowing leaves or other debris into the garage and works best for rapid cleanup tasks on smooth, bare floors. Expect it to just superficially clean a carpet because it lacks a revolving brush, yet it may be able to pick up lint or hair on the surface.
3. BISSELL SMARTCLEAN CANISTER VACUUM
PROS
Long cord, hose, and extension wand for a 40-ft. operating radius
Three suction speeds
Built-in dusting brush on a handle
CONS
Doesn't have a rotating brush
Nothing is more annoying than having to stop cleaning in the middle of it because you have to unplug your Hoover since it can't get under the bed, behind the couch, or wherever else you want to clean. But even the furthest dust bunnies won't evade you with this Bissell bagless canister model. It has a 40-foot cleaning radius thanks to its 30-foot cord, 6.5-foot hose, and telescoping extension wand. You can quickly transition from bare floors to area rugs, upholstery, and draperies thanks to the three suction speeds, multi-floor cleaning nozzle, and supplementary dusting brush incorporated into the handle. Although we haven't evaluated this particular model, Bissell upright vacuums have always performed well in our tests.
4. MIELE BOOST CX1 PARQUET CANISTER VACUUM
PROS
Excellent suction
Cord rewind
Universal floorhead
CONS
Some reviewers had a hard time pushing it on the carpet
Weight: 13.8 lbs.
Cord Length: 22 feet
Attachments: Upholstery nozzle, crevice tool, dusting brush, parquet floorhead
The pick-up performance and high-end features of this Hoover impressed our lab specialists, which is not surprising considering Miele consistently performs highly in our testing. In contrast to other Hoover models, which is a typical complaint, the Boost CX1 Parquet did not exhibit any indications of pushing material forward rather than sucking it up. It was able to qualify for our 2022 Good Housekeeping Best Cleaning & Organising Awards thanks to this. In our tests, it had no trouble picking up dry oats. It comes in a small canister that is roughly the size of a small cooler and includes a HEPA filter, cord rewind, parquet floor brush tool, and an extension wand. We adore the big, simple dust bin, and the huge wheels make it easy to move. Using the Univer With the flip of a button, the universal floor head makes it simple to convert from low carpet to hardwood floors without changing attachments. The deep pile carpets cannot be cleaned of embedded filth because there is no revolving brush. But it does come with a sizable oval parquet floor brush to safely clean the gaps and crevices if you want to give your hardwood floors an extra thorough cleaning.
5. ORECK COMPACT CANISTER VACUUM
PROS
Long cord; great for cleaning the car
Lightweight
Works well on hard floors, flat carpets, and area rugs
CONS
Can't clean deep pile carpet
Weight:5.5 lbs.
Cord length: 20 feet
Attachments: Bare floor brush, crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, connectors
The Oreck is the lightest of our top options, weighing only 5.5 pounds, and is easier to transport than a conventional canister. We appreciate that it has a shoulder strap and telescoping extension wand for reaching high and difficult-to-reach areas like window frames, ceiling fans, and light fixtures with greater ease. Additionally, there is a 20-foot cord, so you won't have to worry if your spills (like those in the car) happen far from an outlet. Although it cannot thoroughly clean pile carpets, when it was paired with an Oreck upright many years ago, we tested it and were satisfied with its pick-up on hard floors, flat carpets, and area rugs. A bag is used to contain it. It has a three-year limited guarantee, uses a bag to capture dust that complies with HEPA filtration requirements and may also be used as a blower to clear debris from the patio, garage, or workshop.
6. KENMORE PET-FRIENDLY POP-N-GO BAGGED CANISTER VACUUM
PROS
Comes with a motorized attachment for pet hair
Sealed dustbag so less dust escapes while emptying
Big wheels for easy maneuvering
CONS
Heavy
Weight: 22.6 lbs.
Cord Length: 28 feet
Attachments: Mini-motorized pet hair tool, powered floor nozzle, crevice tool, dusting brush, bare floor brush
Both versatile and strong, this Kenmore Hoover is a great buy. It has a little motorized brush tool that can be stowed right on the hoover and is used to remove pet hair from carpets and upholstered furniture. It's a great option for anyone with pets or allergies because the disposable dust bag, sealed system, and HEPA filter on the exhaust prevent unwanted debris from escaping. Along with passing our floor-cleaning tests, our experts said the controls were simple to operate and that the huge wheels made maneuvering a delight. We adored how simply attaching the floor brush hands-free with a button press is.
7. HOOVER CORDLESS SHOP VACUUM
PROS
Wheels are designed for extra stability as you clean
Cordless
6-gallon capacity bin
CONS
Short runtime of about 12 minutes
Weight: 18.4 lbs.
Cord Length: Cordless
Attachments: Crevice tool, utility nozzle
Vacuuming takes place outside of your home as well. The occasional leaking pipe or clogged drain that needs to be cleaned also requires attention, as do the basement, garage, deck, and other outdoor spaces. In these situations, a wet/dry utility vacuum is the best option. It can remove both coarse and fine waste, including moist messes and water that can ruin a conventional hoover, such as leaves and sawdust. In contrast to other wet/dry utility vacs, Hoover's ONEPWR is cordless and powered by a rechargeable battery, giving you unrestricted mobility. It's big wheels and low horizontal design for increased stability and reduced tipping are other noteworthy features. The bin has a capacity and the tools and wands stow right on the Hoover. The 6-gallon bin has a capacity, and the tools and wands store right on the Hoover. This model was put to the test as part of our latest comparison of the top shop vacuums, and it won the best value award. Although it wasn't as robust or feature-rich as some of the others we tested, its pick-up performance was outstanding, and its small size made storing simple. All Hoover vacuums, regardless of their size or shape, consistently perform well in our tests. This vacuum uses the same interchangeable battery found on other Hoover ONEPWR line items, including the portable vacuum and leaf blower.
8. DEWALT QUIET WET DRY VACUUM
PROS
Works as a blower and vacuum
Quieter than other models
Accessories store in a pouch on-board
Has a strap to secure the hose during storage
CONS
Only slightly quieter than other models
Weight: 22.7 lbs.
Cord: Length10 feet
Attachments: Floor nozzle, utility nozzle, crevice tool
Look no further if you need a corded canister vacuum that can handle messy dry and wet situations in your house, garage, or workshop. In our tests, this Dewalt picked up liquids and heavy trash with ease, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Additionally, it is ideal for cleaning tasks like suctioning up damp spills in your home thanks to the supplied attachments for hard-to-reach crevices and flooring. It is remarkably portable in a variety of places because of its swivel wheels, 7-foot hose, and 10-foot cable. According to the manufacturer, this Hoover is up to 50% quieter than earlier models because to its two-stage motor. Additionally, even though the GH Cleaning Lab found it to be substantially quieter than other versions we've examined, our Home Improvement and Outdoor It was a little bit louder than the other models that lab experts tested for their study of the top shop vacuums.
HOW DO WE TEST VACUUM CLEANER
As a member of ASTM International's F11 Vacuum Cleaner Committee, we receive new models for testing on a regular basis. In addition, we interact twice a year with engineers and technical representatives from all brands to help develop and shape the vacuum cleaner test standards that are used by everyone to evaluate performance, usability, durability, and other factors. Our tests are based on the ASTM International industry standard test methodologies, and all vacuums are evaluated in the same way for more accurate performance comparisons.
We objectively analyze how well each hoover removes dirt deeply ingrained into a medium-pile carpet using a custom-built, automated machine that makes the same number of runs over the same test carpeting (seen below). With each vacuum, this test is run three times, totaling 120 runs in our most recent study of 40 vacuums! In order to prevent results from influencing one another, we even use a different machine to clean the carpets in between test runs.
We evaluate the effectiveness of the vacuums in removing large and small materials from vinyl flooring, including dried orzo pasta, grit, and sand. Additionally, we evaluate the tools' ability to draw suction through the tools and how well they clean edges.
To test how efficiently each machine removes pet hair from the surface of a carpet, we uniformly spread rayon fibers that are industry standard in six different spots. To fully remove the fuzzy fibers, each hover requires a certain number of strokes. Every Hoover is put through three tests.
We examine each Hoover cleaner's simplicity of use in addition to its performance. During this testing, the maneuverability, battery life for cordless vacuum cleaners, usability of controls, and convenience of emptying and cleaning the dust cup or changing the bag are all evaluated. The weight of each model is also taken into account. All extra features and claims are evaluated, and we even assign a clarity score to the owner's manual. We had 10 consumer testers score each vacuum's maneuverability by running them on a bare floor, carpet, around corners, and under furniture because maneuverability might vary from one customer to the next. They rate how simple it is to remove the dust cups or bags and use the. To assess the loudness of each model, we collaborate with Quiet Mark, an independent, international sound certification program; any additional features, such as battery charge indicators, brush roll control buttons, and other tools and accessories are documented and tested as well.
HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT CANISTER VACUUM FOR YOUR HOME
There isn't a single canister vacuum that will work perfectly for everyone, but there are plenty of models available so you can probably find the right one for you. When selecting a canister vacuum, keep the following things in mind.
Both bagged and bagless canister vacuums are excellent at cleaning up messes, but they differ in one important way. Canister vacuums with bags are typically considerably simpler to clean. The spent dust bag is simply removed and thrown away once you are done with them. You'll need to buy bags on a regular basis, and the cost of each brand's bag varies substantially. Canister vacuums without bags have a dust cup with a filter that must be cleaned and emptied after each usage. Although you won't need to buy dust bags, you will need to clean or change the filter on occasion to preserve the filter's cleaning effectiveness, and emptying the dust cup can be messy.
Space: Your best choice is a lightweight canister vacuum or one with an extra-long hose and cord if you know you'll be using it to clean your stairs. Longer cords or a cordless vacuum might make it easier to clean larger homes without having to connect to many outlets. Keep in mind that compared to corded models, cordless canister vacuums will give you considerably more flexibility but significantly shorter runtimes. Instead, because the runtime isn't as critical in smaller homes or apartments, cordless vacuums are a fantastic choice. Naturally, portable, smaller ones will be much simpler to store.
Attachments: When choosing which model to buy, attachments frequently make or break your choice. A powerhead attachment, which will help you more effectively deep clean carpets and rugs, is just as crucial as the dusting brush, upholstery tool, and crevice attachment that are typically included with models to clean hard-to-reach sections of your home. A universal floor head or bare floor brush will clean both if your home just has bare floors or very flat rugs. Spend the extra money for the motorized powerhead with a revolving brush if you have medium- or deep-pile carpets. Car accessories are also quite useful.
OTHER PRODUCTS WE TESTED:
MIELE CLASSIC C1 BEGGED CANISTER VACUUM
PROS
Flexible Handheld Mini Turbo Brush nixes pet hair from tight corners
Neutralizes pet odors
CONS
The cord length is shorter than our other picks
Weight: 21 lbs.
Cord: Length18 feet
Attachments: Powered floor nozzle, small parquet floor brush, dusting brush, crevice tool, upholstery tool, handheld turbo brush.
The robust Hoover has an Active AirClean Filter that helps to eliminate any remaining pet odors, making it ideal for capturing and securing the unpleasant 'dog smell'. Additionally, it has a Flexible Handheld Mini Turbo Brush attachment for cleaning tight spaces where pet hair, grime, and other debris might collect, such as upholstery, stairs, and other small areas. This model doesn't have a HEPA filter because it is a part of Miele's more affordable "Classic" range, even though it is still a great option. The Complete C3 Kona model from Miele was selected as our Best Overall Canister because we wished it did. Moreover, it comes with a miniature version of Miele's huge parquet floor brush.
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