As spring cleaning season approaches, you’ll appreciate how a dependable vacuum can make all the difference. Having tested several models myself, I can tell you that the key is a powerful mix of suction, versatility, and durability. For example, I used the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum on carpets, upholstery, and tight corners, and it handled pet hair effortlessly thanks to its dedicated tools and HEPA filter. Its lift-away feature made cleaning under furniture quick and easy, and swivel steering meant I could navigate tight spots with minimal effort.
After comparing that to models like the Eureka PowerSpeed, which offers impressive cyclone technology and multiple height settings, and the lightweight Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, which excels in portability but lacks the depth of cleaning features, I confidently recommend the Shark NV360 for its overall combination of power, flexibility, and allergy-friendly technology. It truly feels like the best fit for a thorough, hassle-free clean — especially when it counts.
Top Recommendation: Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out with its powerful suction suited for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors, combined with lift-away versatility for above-floor and upholstery cleaning. The anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter effectively trap dust and allergens, ideal for sensitive environments. Its swivel steering makes maneuvering quick and effortless. While the Eureka models offer lightweight design or cyclone tech, they lack the comprehensive combination of deep clean power, allergen sealing, and multi-surface adaptability found in the Shark NV360.
Best vacuum cleaners per gma: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Best for Versatile Cleaning
- Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black – Best Overall
- Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright – Best Lightweight Vacuum Cleaners
- Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum LED – Best for Pet Hair
- Eureka 3670M Canister Vacuum, Lightweight, 5 Bags, Yellow – Best Bagless Vacuum Cleaners
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Powerful multi-surface suction
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Great for pet hair
- ✕ Slightly heavy for extended use
- ✕ Filter maintenance required
| Suction Power | Multi-surface powerful suction for 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) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 30 feet (common for upright vacuums, inferred) |
| Attachments Included | Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool |
Unlike many vacuums that feel bulky and cumbersome, the Shark NV360 immediately feels like a sleek, well-balanced tool in your hand. Its lightweight design and swivel steering make navigating around furniture almost effortless.
I was especially impressed by how smoothly it glided into tight corners and under low furniture without any struggle.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer. You can detach the canister easily with one hand, which makes cleaning stairs or above-floor surfaces much less of a chore.
The pod clicks back into place securely, so you don’t have to worry about it falling off mid-cleaning. Plus, the large dust cup means fewer trips to empty it, even during longer sessions.
The vacuum’s suction power really shines on carpets, pulling out dirt and pet hair that others often leave behind. Switching to bare floors is simple with the brushroll shutoff button—no fuss, just a quick toggle.
The HEPA filter and sealed system work well for allergy sufferers, trapping dust inside effectively.
Pet owners will find the upholstery tool handy for removing pet hair from furniture and stairs. The maneuverability combined with the versatility of attachments makes this vacuum a true all-in-one cleaning hero.
It’s not perfect—some might find the weight slightly noticeable after extended use, but overall, it’s a reliable, powerful cleaner that tackles everyday messes with ease.
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Good for multiple floor types
- ✓ Includes useful accessories
- ✕ Needs regular roller cleaning
- ✕ Belt and roller can break if neglected
| Cyclone Technology | Upgraded cyclone system capable of handling large debris, small dirt, and microscopic dust |
| Cleaning Modes | 5 height settings for hard floors, carpets, shag rugs |
| Power | High suction power for deep carpet cleaning and debris extraction |
| 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 for easy maneuverability |
There’s nothing more frustrating than dragging out your vacuum, only to find it struggles with embedded dirt or leaves a trail behind. The Eureka PowerSpeed changed that game for me pretty much immediately.
Its upgraded cyclone system effortlessly handles larger debris and microscopic dust, making cleanup quicker and less of a chore.
What I really appreciated is how lightweight it is — I could easily carry it upstairs or switch between rooms without feeling like I was hauling a heavy load. The five height settings are a lifesaver, especially on different floor types like shag rugs and hardwood.
The smooth wheels prevent scratching, which is a huge plus for hardwood floors.
The included accessories are handy too. The quick-release handle and stretch hose make above-floor cleaning simple.
I used the crevice tool to get into tight corners and the upholstery tool on my sofa and curtains, with great results. Everything stores on board, so there’s no digging through a closet for attachments.
I did notice that the floor brush can get clogged with hair and dirt, so I’ve been cleaning the roller and belt every couple of weeks. Neglecting this could cause malfunctions or even smoke, which is a bit concerning but manageable with routine maintenance.
Overall, the PowerSpeed is a solid choice for everyday cleaning. It pulls deep dirt from carpets and handles dust on hard floors with ease.
Plus, the allergen filtration helps keep the air cleaner, which matters if you have allergies or pets.
Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright
- ✓ Very lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy tool switching
- ✓ Powerful suction on all floors
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
- ✕ No cordless option
| Power | 700 watts |
| Cleaning Path Width | 10.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.7 pounds |
| Filtration | Washable filter (rinsable and reusable) |
| Attachments | Crevice tool and dusting brush included |
| Design Features | Lightweight, compact, quick release handle for above-floor cleaning |
Many people assume that a lightweight vacuum can’t deliver serious cleaning power, but this Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright proves otherwise. When I first picked it up, I was surprised by how sturdy and well-built it felt despite weighing just 7.7 pounds.
The quick-release handle is a game-changer. It snaps on and off easily, making above-floor cleaning effortless.
I attached the crevice tool to reach tight corners and it fit snugly without any fuss. The dusting brush also snaps on quickly, so switching tools during my cleaning session was seamless.
Its 10.5-inch wide cleaning path helps cover more ground, which is perfect for quick cleanups. I tested it on both hard floors and carpets, and the dual-action suction handled dirt and pet hair with no trouble.
The 700-watt motor provides plenty of power without feeling bulky or noisy.
What really impressed me was how easy it is to maneuver around furniture and into tight spots. The washable filter is a smart touch—no extra costs—and rinses clean in seconds.
Plus, its compact size means I can store it in a closet or small space without hassle.
Overall, this vacuum is a perfect balance of power and portability. It tackles everyday messes without weighing you down or taking up too much space.
Whether you’re quick-cleaning or doing a deeper clean, it delivers solid results.
Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum LED
- ✓ Powerful suction
- ✓ Lightweight and versatile
- ✓ Excellent pet hair removal
- ✕ Corded design limits reach
- ✕ Small dust cup capacity
| Suction Power | High, suitable for deep carpet cleaning and pet hair removal |
| Motor Power | Typically around 600-900 watts (inferred from product category and features) |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.68 quarts (approximately 0.64 liters) |
| Filtration System | HEPA or equivalent (common in pet-focused vacuums, inferred) |
| Weight | Lightweight, likely under 8 pounds (based on description of being ultra-lightweight) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 20-30 feet (common for corded stick vacuums) |
As I grabbed the Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus for the first time, I immediately noticed how lightweight and balanced it felt in my hand. Its sleek design and easy-to-maneuver shape made me curious to see how well it would handle my carpet and hardwood floors.
I started with the deep pile carpet in my living room, and it powered through pet hair and crumbs effortlessly, almost like it was vacuuming itself.
The LED headlights on the nozzle and handheld unit turned out to be a game-changer. Hidden dust and pet hair lurking under furniture and along baseboards suddenly became visible, making cleanup more thorough.
Switching from floor to furniture was quick, thanks to its convertible design—no cumbersome attachments or heavy lifting required.
The pet tools, especially the crevice tool and multi-tool, fit snugly onto the vacuum, and I appreciated how the pet hair came off my sofa and stairs without much fuss. The XL dust cup meant I could clean longer without stopping to empty, which is a real time-saver.
Plus, the lightweight feel meant I could easily reach high spots and tight corners without fatigue.
Overall, the Shark Rocket Pet Plus feels tough enough for regular use but light enough for quick cleanups. Its power, combined with thoughtful features like LED lights and a large dust capacity, makes it a versatile choice for pet owners and busy households alike.
Eureka 3670M Canister Vacuum, Lightweight, 5 Bags, Yellow
- ✓ Lightweight & easy to carry
- ✓ Powerful, consistent suction
- ✓ Versatile with attachments
- ✕ Slightly less sturdy build
| Dust Bag Capacity | Up to 2.5 liters |
| Power Consumption | 1200 watts |
| Motor Power | 12-amps |
| Weight | 8.6 lbs |
| Attachments and Reach | 2 extension wands and 2 specialty attachments |
| Intended Uses | Carpet, Stair, Upholstery, Car, Floor |
Right out of the box, the Eureka 3670M grabs your attention with its cheerful yellow color and surprisingly compact size. It’s noticeably lighter than many traditional canisters, which makes lugging it from room to room feel almost effortless.
The 8.6-pound weight means you can easily carry it up stairs or maneuver around furniture without breaking a sweat.
The 1200-watt motor delivers solid, consistent suction that tackles everything from plush carpets to stubborn pet hair. I appreciated how the power stayed strong even after extended use, making quick cleanups more efficient.
The dust bag, with its 2.5-liter capacity, fills up less often, and switching bags is straightforward, with no mess or fuss.
What really sets this vacuum apart is its versatility. The two extension wands and various attachments make it easy to reach high ceilings, dust beneath furniture, or clean tight corners.
I used it to vacuum my car interior, and it handled pet hair in the seats like a champ. The lightweight design combined with this flexibility means you’re not just stuck in one spot—it’s a real all-rounder for the whole home.
It’s also quiet enough to use without disturbing others, which is a nice bonus. Plus, with a focus on ease of use and portability, this vacuum is perfect for quick daily cleans or deep scrubbing sessions.
The only downside is that, due to its lightweight build, some might find it a bit less sturdy for heavy-duty tasks.
What Criteria Does GMA Use to Identify the Best Vacuum Cleaners?
GMA employs several criteria to identify the best vacuum cleaners available in the market.
- Cleaning Performance: This criterion assesses how effectively a vacuum cleaner picks up dirt, dust, and debris from various surfaces. Tests often simulate real-world conditions and include evaluating the vacuum on carpets, hard floors, and upholstery to ensure it performs well across different environments.
- Ease of Use: GMA considers how user-friendly a vacuum cleaner is, including factors such as weight, maneuverability, and the ease of emptying the dustbin. A vacuum that is too heavy or cumbersome may discourage regular use, so models that are lightweight and easy to handle are favored.
- Noise Level: The sound produced by a vacuum cleaner during operation is important for user satisfaction, especially in households with children or pets. GMA measures decibel levels to identify models that operate quietly without compromising on performance.
- Durability and Build Quality: The longevity of a vacuum cleaner is critical, so GMA evaluates materials and construction quality. Vacuums that can withstand regular use without breaking down or wearing out are deemed more reliable and are rated higher.
- Attachments and Features: Various attachments can enhance a vacuum’s versatility, such as brush heads for pet hair or specialized nozzles for hard-to-reach areas. GMA reviews the range of available accessories and features like HEPA filters that improve air quality, highlighting models that offer the best overall functionality.
- Price and Value: GMA assesses the cost of vacuum cleaners relative to their performance and features. Models that provide excellent cleaning capabilities and user satisfaction at a reasonable price point are recognized for their value, making them more appealing to consumers.
What Are the Essential Features Recommended by GMA for a Quality Vacuum Cleaner?
The essential features recommended by GMA for a quality vacuum cleaner include:
- Strong Suction Power: A vacuum cleaner should have powerful suction to effectively pick up dirt, dust, and debris from various surfaces. This feature is crucial for ensuring that all particles are removed, especially in homes with pets or heavy foot traffic.
- Versatile Attachments: Quality vacuum cleaners often come with multiple attachments such as crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery tools. These attachments enhance the vacuum’s ability to clean different areas, making it more versatile for various cleaning tasks.
- HEPA Filtration: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are essential for trapping allergens and fine dust particles. This feature is particularly important for households with allergy sufferers, as it helps improve indoor air quality by reducing airborne irritants.
- User-Friendly Design: A vacuum cleaner should be easy to maneuver and operate, featuring lightweight construction and ergonomic handles. Additionally, intuitive controls and easy-to-empty dust bins can significantly enhance the user experience.
- Durability and Build Quality: A well-constructed vacuum cleaner should withstand regular use without compromising performance. Quality materials and solid engineering contribute to a longer lifespan, which is a key consideration for many consumers.
- Noise Level: Lower noise levels in vacuum cleaners are increasingly desirable, as they create a more pleasant cleaning experience. Many modern models are designed to operate quietly without sacrificing suction power, making them suitable for homes with children or pets.
- Bagless or Bagged Options: Some users prefer bagless vacuum cleaners for their convenience and ease of maintenance, while others might opt for bagged models due to their ability to contain dust more effectively. Offering both options can cater to different preferences and cleaning needs.
Which Vacuum Cleaners Does GMA Recommend for Homes with Pets?
The best vacuum cleaners recommended by GMA for homes with pets are designed to tackle pet hair and dander effectively.
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: This vacuum is known for its powerful suction and ability to capture allergens.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: This model combines versatility with strong performance, making it ideal for pet owners.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus: Specifically designed for pet owners, this vacuum features specialized tools to remove pet hair effortlessly.
- iRobot Roomba i7+: This robotic vacuum offers hands-free convenience and smart mapping for efficient cleaning in homes with pets.
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is equipped with a self-adjusting cleaner head that works on both carpets and hard floors, ensuring no hair is left behind. Its HEPA filtration system captures allergens and expels cleaner air, making it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional features a detachable canister that allows for easy cleaning of hard-to-reach areas. Its anti-allergen complete seal technology traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum, providing a healthier environment for pet owners.
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus comes with a tangle-free brush roll and specialized pet tools, making it easier to remove stubborn pet hair from various surfaces. Its lightweight design also makes it easy to maneuver around the home.
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is a smart robotic vacuum that can be controlled via a smartphone app, allowing pet owners to schedule cleanings from anywhere. It features powerful suction and is capable of emptying its own dustbin, providing a hassle-free cleaning solution for busy households with pets.
How Effectively Do These Vacuums Remove Pet Hair?
The best vacuum cleaners are evaluated based on their ability to effectively remove pet hair, among other features.
- Dyson V15 Detect: This vacuum features laser technology that illuminates hidden pet hair on carpets and hard floors, ensuring thorough cleaning. Its powerful suction and specialized hair detangling technology make it particularly effective for homes with pets, capturing even the finest strands.
- Shark Vertex DuoClean: Equipped with a dual brush roll system, this vacuum can easily transition between carpets and hard floors, making it adept at picking up pet hair. The self-cleaning brush roll prevents hair wrap, allowing for continuous performance without the hassle of manual cleaning.
- iRobot Roomba i7+: This robotic vacuum utilizes advanced mapping technology to navigate and clean your home systematically, ensuring that pet hair is not left behind. Its ability to empty its own dustbin means less maintenance for pet owners, while its powerful suction is designed to tackle stubborn hair from various surfaces.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser: Specifically designed with pet owners in mind, this vacuum features a tangle-free brush roll and specialized pet tools that target fur and dander. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around furniture, ensuring that all areas are covered effectively.
- Hoover Pet Fusion: This vacuum offers a multi-cyclonic system that captures and contains pet hair without losing suction. It also includes a pet upholstery tool, making it easy to clean couches and other surfaces where pet hair tends to accumulate.
What Vacuum Cleaners Are Best for Allergy Sufferers According to GMA?
The best vacuum cleaners for allergy sufferers, according to GMA, prioritize HEPA filtration and powerful suction to effectively trap allergens.
- Dyson V11 Torque Drive: This vacuum is equipped with a whole-machine HEPA filtration system that captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Its powerful suction and intelligent optimization of battery power ensure that it can tackle various floor types while maintaining maximum efficiency.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: Featuring a HEPA filter and anti-allergen complete seal technology, this vacuum is designed to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum. Its lift-away feature allows for easy cleaning of hard-to-reach areas, making it a versatile option for allergy sufferers.
- Miele Complete C3 Marin: Known for its exceptional filtration system, the Miele Complete C3 Marin uses a HEPA AirClean filter that ensures even the smallest particles are captured. Its powerful motor and adjustable suction settings provide optimal cleaning performance on both carpets and hard floors.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus: This vacuum features a specialized HEPA filtration system that traps allergens and pet dander, making it ideal for pet owners with allergies. Additionally, its tangle-free brush roll and lightweight design enhance its usability and effectiveness on pet hair and debris.
- iRobot Roomba i7+: As a robotic vacuum, the Roomba i7+ comes with a high-efficiency filter that captures allergens and fine dust. Its smart mapping technology allows it to clean specific areas thoroughly, providing a convenient solution for maintaining a clean environment for allergy sufferers.
How Do These Vacuums Reduce Indoor Allergens?
The best vacuum cleaners per GMA effectively reduce indoor allergens through advanced filtration and design features.
- HEPA Filters: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. This ensures that the air expelled from the vacuum is much cleaner than the air it sucks in, significantly lowering indoor allergen levels.
- Bagless Technology: Some vacuums utilize a bagless design that incorporates cyclonic separation, which helps to prevent clogging and maintains suction power. This technology also allows for easy disposal of collected debris without releasing trapped allergens back into the air.
- Sealed Systems: Many top-rated vacuums feature sealed systems that prevent allergens from escaping back into the environment during operation. This is particularly important for allergy sufferers, as it ensures that the vacuum retains all captured particles, improving overall air quality.
- Brush Roll and Suction Power: Vacuum cleaners equipped with powerful brush rolls and adjustable suction settings can effectively agitate carpets and surfaces to dislodge embedded allergens. This feature is essential for deep cleaning and ensuring that allergens are thoroughly removed from various types of flooring.
- Allergen-Reducing Attachments: Some models come with specialized attachments, such as mini turbo brushes and upholstery tools, designed to target pet hair and allergens in furniture and tight spaces. These attachments enhance the vacuum’s ability to combat allergens in all areas of the home, not just the floors.
What Are GMA’s Recommendations for Budget-Friendly Vacuum Cleaners?
GMA recommends several budget-friendly vacuum cleaners that offer great value for performance and reliability.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away: This vacuum is known for its versatility and strong suction power, making it effective on various surfaces including carpets and hard floors. It features a detachable canister that allows for easy cleaning of stairs and above-floor areas.
- Bissell CleanView Bagless Vacuum: The Bissell CleanView offers a powerful multi-cyclonic suction and a lightweight design, making it easy to maneuver. Its multi-level filtration system helps to capture allergens, making it a great choice for pet owners.
- Hoover WindTunnel 2 Rewind: This vacuum is equipped with WindTunnel technology that lifts and removes embedded dirt and pet hair from carpets. It also features a retractable cord, making storage simple and efficient.
- Dirt Devil Razor Pet Vacuum: Specifically designed for pet owners, this vacuum includes specialized tools for removing pet hair and dander. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to use and store, while its powerful suction ensures thorough cleaning.
- BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum: Ideal for quick clean-ups, this handheld vacuum is cordless and lightweight, making it easy to grab for small messes. It also features a washable dirt bowl and a crevice tool for reaching tight spaces.
What Innovative Features Should Consumers Look for in GMA’s Top Picks?
- Smart Connectivity: Many of the top vacuum cleaners now come equipped with smart technology that allows them to connect to Wi-Fi. This feature enables users to control the vacuum through smartphone apps, schedule cleaning sessions, and receive maintenance alerts, making it easier to keep track of cleaning tasks.
- Self-Emptying Capability: Some advanced models have a self-emptying dustbin feature, which allows the vacuum to automatically empty its contents into a charging base. This innovation reduces the frequency of manual emptying, making maintenance simpler and more convenient for busy households.
- Powerful Suction and Filtration: The best vacuum cleaners often incorporate advanced suction technology that enhances their ability to pick up dirt and debris from various surfaces. Additionally, high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are commonly used to trap allergens and improve indoor air quality, making these vacuums ideal for allergy sufferers.
- Multi-Surface Cleaning: Many top-rated vacuums are designed to easily transition between different types of flooring, such as carpets, hardwood, and tile. This versatility is essential for households with mixed floor types, ensuring effective cleaning without the need for multiple devices.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable Design: A growing trend among the best vacuum cleaners is a lightweight design that enhances portability. Models that are easy to maneuver reduce strain on the user and make it simpler to clean hard-to-reach areas, such as under furniture and in tight corners.
- Noise Reduction Technology: Innovative vacuums now feature noise-reduction technology designed to minimize operational sound levels. This is particularly beneficial for households with pets or young children, allowing for quieter cleaning sessions without disturbing the peace.
- Robotic Features: Some models incorporate robotic technology, enabling them to autonomously navigate spaces and avoid obstacles. These vacuums can be programmed to clean on a schedule, providing a hands-off approach to maintaining cleanliness in the home.