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Cleaning is one of those mundane tasks that few people enjoy and some people hate. While we can’t say a tool will make you love cleaning, with the right tool, it doesn’t have to be such a chore. Convenient tools, such as cordless handheld vacuums, make small messes go away in moments without much effort. They are perfect for collecting small piles of spilled food, dirt, or dust and are incredibly convenient. They also give you the ability to clean hard-to-reach areas, like in between couches and in corners, without having to fumble with power cords; in other words, they’re exactly what you need. In this post, we’ll cover the top-rated cordless handheld vacuums based on customer reviews and our own research. From budget-friendly options to premium models, we have something for everyone.
Cordless Handheld Vacuum: Buying Guide
There are many features to consider when it comes to finding a cordless handheld vacuum to make cleaning a breeze. This guide will provide an overview of the top vacuum features to take into account – from battery capacity and run time to suction power and weight – in order to help you make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing a vacuum. Before we begin, though, here is an overview of the vacuums on our list:
| Capacity | Noise Level | Weight | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ofuzzi | 120 mL | 80 dB | 1.2 Pounds |
| Black+Decker | 590 mL | 78 dB | 2.6 Pounds |
| BISSELL | 700 mL | 70 dB | 3 Pounds |
| VacLife | 400 mL | 75 dB | 1.5 Pounds |
| Shark | 75 mL | 28 dB | 1.4 Pounds |
Things to Look for Before Buying Cordless Handheld Vacuum
Suction power
Strong suction power will significantly influence the effectiveness of your vacuum. More power means that more particles, including smaller particles, will be sucked up, resulting in a cleaner surface. A motor’s strength determines suction power and can be measured in Air Watts (AW), Airflow (CFM), and sometimes water lift.
Obviously, small handheld vacuums will have less suction power than a hefty vacuum (assuming it is of equal quality). To correct for this, I recommend vacuuming in one direction, then crossing the other way to pick up dirt and debris from all directions. Check out this demo below for a demonstration of this technique:
Quick vacuum tip that will save your carpets! Clean deeper and remove more by cleaning in a cross pattern! Favorite cordless vacuum — in bio (Tineco S15 impossible to clog). #cleaningproducts #floorcleaning #vacuumcleaner #homecleaning #carpeycleaning #vacuumtherapy #vacuumtips #cleaninghacks #cleaningproducts #cleaningobsessed
Mission Impossible Theme (Movie Trailer Mix) – Dominik Hauser
Battery capacity
Consider the battery capacity and the runtime of a vacuum’s fully-charged battery. Vacuums require a lot of energy to run, which means that a cordless vacuum needs to have a large battery in order to be convenient, as battery life determines how long you can use the vacuum before needing to recharge. Look for a device with a high battery capacity of over 2,500 mAH and a long runtime for the most efficient cleaning experience.
Weight
Select a cordless handheld vacuum that is lightweight and easy to handle. Preferably find a light one with an ergonomic design that it fits comfortably in your hand and is easy to maneuver around hard-to-reach places. Aim for a lighter model under 5 pounds if possible. Remember, if a handheld vacuum is heavy, you may have well bought a full-sized vacuum. When I shop for handheld appliances, I always make sure to hold them and feel how heavy and controllable they are.
Filtration capacity
Ensure that your vacuum has outstanding filtration so that allergens are captured by filters and not left free to circulate into the air. Look for additional attachments, such as a HEPA or activated carbon filter, to further optimize your vacuum’s filtration capabilities. I personally prefer a HEPA filter since I know they are effective and will keep my home clean.
Brush accessories and attachments
Different brush heads, crevice tools, and other accessories allow you to optimize your cleaning efforts by selecting heads that work well on areas in need of attention. Consider any additional attachments offered with the device, such as nozzles or extension wands to access hard-to-reach spots or those difficult-to-clean areas like corners or beneath furniture.
Control options
Control options such as variable speeds can help you adjust your cleaning approach to the different surfaces being cleaned. Some vacuums offer multiple modes like turbo for deep cleaning or low power settings for more sensitive objects such as curtains. Check whether there are adjustable speed settings available on the vacuum so that you can customize your cleaning experience according to your needs.
Noise level
Some devices are louder than others. While powerful suction often coincides with louder noise levels, there are quieter models available on the market if noise levels are of concern to you personally or are of concern to others, such as in shared apartments.
Nozzle length
If you intend on using your handheld vacuum to reach high-up spaces, make sure that it comes with an adjustable nozzle so you can reach high shelves and the floor without having to strain yourself. Extension tools can also help you get into tight nooks and crannies without adjusting the vacuum directly.
Price
Vacuums have different price points depending on what they offer, so make sure to factor in what you’re getting out of the product versus how much it costs. “Luxury“ brands will cost you over $100, but most vacuums cost. Generally, you’re looking at an investment of about $60 – $150. I think you should generally aim for the higher end of that range since higher-quality vacuums will last longer, but cheaper models are also fine.
Comparing the Top Cordless Handheld Vacuums
Dreametech Cordless Handheld Vacuum
– Best Overall
The Dreametech Cordless Handheld Vacuum is a compact and powerful cleaning solution designed to tackle various cleaning needs with ease. Powered by a 130W brushless motor, this handheld vacuum provides up to 22000Pa of vacuuming power, making it efficient for cleaning dust, pet hairs, crumbs, and more on hard floors, carpets, stairs, and even in cars. With three suction modes, you can adjust the power according to your specific cleaning requirements.
The handheld vacuum boasts a long run time with its 7-cell 2500mAh lithium battery pack, offering up to 60 minutes of continuous cleaning under the standard mode. For deeper cleaning tasks, the max mode with 22Kpa provides up to 8 minutes of intense cleaning power. This best overall handheld vacuum possesses a powerful performance, long battery life, and an effective filtration system, making it an excellent choice for quick and thorough cleaning tasks.
Pros
- 130W brushless motor provides up to 22000Pa of vacuuming power
- 7-cell 2500mAh lithium battery offers up to 60 minutes of continuous cleaning
- Efficiently removes dust and particles
Cons
- Little expensive
Ofuzzi Cordless Handheld Vacuum
– Best Design
Around $100
The Ofuzzi Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner is an exceptional cleaning device that offers a unique combination of features. It has two power levels for different surfaces and a relatively large battery that lasts for 30 minutes on a full charge. It also features an intelligent dust canister with a locking feature to prevent accidents and is easily removed and emptied. I love that they made it so easy to clean up what I cleaned it!
This handheld vacuum also comes with various cleaning to make cleaning as effective as possible. It includes a crevice nozzle for tough-to-reach spaces, two attachments for surfaces sofas, and one general-purpose nozzle.
Pros
- Lightweight for easy overhead cleaning
- Two suction speeds
- Comes with attachments and a storage case
- USB port to convenient charging
Cons
- Not great for vacuuming large spaces
BLACK+DECKER Cordless Handheld Vacuum
– Most Powerful
Around $60
This BLACK+DECKER Cordless Handheld Vacuum is a powerful and versatile cleaning tool for any home or office. This lightweight, portable, and cordless vacuum has an ergonomic design that allows you to maneuver into tight spaces without having to bend over and a rotating slim nozzle that provides 180° of flexibility. It also features an integrated flip-up brush and pull-out crevice tool that provide added versatility for dusting and vacuuming upholstery in hard-to-reach areas like between couch cushions and on top of shelves.
This vacuum’s advanced cyclonic action spins dust and debris away from the filter, making sure it maintains consistently strong suction power. It also has an easy-view dirt bowl which can be washed right in your sink and allows you to empty debris without having to get your hands dirty. Powered by a lithium-ion battery, this handheld vacuum is ideal for larger jobs requiring quick cleanup. We love this vacuum and recommend checking it out.
Pros
- Comes with an extendable crevice tool
- Easy to empty and clean filter
- Cordless, rechargeable and sits on a charging stand
- Has plenty of power for small clean-up jobs
Cons
- Collection area mostly taken up by filter
Bissell Cordless Handheld Vacuum
– For Pet Owners
Around $80
The Bissell Cordless Handheld Vacuum is a great cleaning tool for pet owners. It’s powered by a 14V lithium-ion battery for a consistent and powerful suction performance. Its motorized brush tool helps to remove more embedded dirt and pet hair, making it great for carpets and upholstery. As a pet owner, that sounds absolutely amazing to me! It also includes a 0.7 liters dirt cup capacity, a large, easy-to-empty dirt bin, and triple-level filtration to ensure thorough cleaning.
The set of specialized pet tools includes a motorized brush tool, an upholstery tool, and a crevice tool. This makes it incredibly easy to get rid of all the fur left behind by your furry friends! All in all, this pet hair eraser lithium Ion vacuum is a great option if you’re looking for an effective cleaning solution that meets your pet-friendly needs while supporting animal charities at the same time. I know that as a per owner, this will be great for my home.
Pros
- Features a powerful lithium-ion battery
- Lightweight, compact design
- Removes 95% or more of pet hair quickly
- Includes a crevice tool and dusting brush
Cons
- Attachments are not harder to install than on other models
VacLife Cordless Handheld Vacuum
– Affordable Option
Around $50
The VacLife Cordless Handheld Vacuum is the perfect all-in-one solution for any home. Featuring a cordless design, this vacuum cleaner is easy to use and transport, allowing you to go wherever your cleaning needs take you. With a powerful motor and long battery life, this small vacuum cleaner can help you easily clean dust, crumbs, and pet hair from all kinds of surfaces in your home with outstanding performance. Honestly, this vacuum sounds to me like it is great for my car and travel kit!
This vacuum also comes with two professional attachments to make cleaning even simpler. Notably, the brush tool can be used to loosen hair and dust stuck in objects, while the crevice nozzle tool is essential for cleaning tight spaces like sofas, crevices and corners. It also has an LED light design that illuminates dark spaces during cleaning so that all debris can easily be spotted. Overall, it is a great vacuum for just about anyone!
Pros
- Easy-to-clean filter
- Comes with attachments for different tasks
- LED light for visibility
- Lightweight but powerful suction
Cons
- Cannot run for more than 15 minutes at a time
Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum
– Intuitive Design
Around $120
The Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum is an incredibly useful and lightweight cleaning tool. You can easily maneuver it around your home for basic cleaning or to reach tight spaces. It features a powerful cordless suction that is powered by a high-speed brushless motor which delivers incredible suction power, making this vacuum perfect for everyday cleaning tasks as well as removing dust and large debris.
This vacuum also comes with a detachable dust cup, making it easy to clean and maintain. On top of that, its filter housing is easy to remove for simple filter cleaning or replacement. Additionally, its LED indicator on the control panel indicates the remaining battery life, so you can always know how much power you have left. Finally, its ergonomic handle design ensures that you have a comfortable grip while using the vacuum. We think that it is a great, easy-to-use vacuum and gets the job done.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Sleek, modern design perfect for countertops
- Powerful enough to pick up small leaves and twigs
- Easy-to-clean filter with compressed air
Cons
- Very low battery runtime
People Also Asked
Q: What makes a cordless handheld vacuum better than full-sized one?
A: A cordless handheld vacuum is better than a full-sized one because it is lightweight, portable, and can easily be used around the home or office without having to worry about cords and outlets. Modern cordless handheld vacuums are designed to offer powerful suction, multi-surface cleaning, and various attachments to customize cleaning.
Q: What are the key features of a good cordless handheld vacuum?
A: The key features of a good cordless handheld vacuum include a powerful motor, a long-lasting battery, multiple attachments for different surfaces and objects, as well as an efficient and effective filtration system.
Q: How do I clean with a cordless handheld vacuum?
A: Cleaning with a cordless handheld vacuum is easy. Simply attach your desired attachments for the surface you’re cleaning and turn on your handheld vacuum. Move it over the surface you want to clean until it has been thoroughly vacuumed.
Q: Does a cordless handheld vacuum need any special attachments to work properly?
A: Depending on the type of surface you’re trying to clean and the type of dirt or debris that are present, certain attachments may be necessary in order for your cordless handheld vacuum to clean properly.
Q: What type of battery does a good cordless handheld vacuum use?
A: A good cordless handheld vacuum typically uses lithium-ion batteries due to their longevity and charging capabilities.
Q: How long does a vacuum’s battery last on a single charge?
A: This will depend on the make and model of your chosen cordless hand vacuum. Most models last between 20 and 30 minutes on a single charge.
Q: Is there anything I need to be aware of when using my cordless handheld vacuum?
A: It’s important to be aware that your cordless hand vacuum may have limitations in terms of power and battery life. If you use it for too long, it can cause the cordless handheld vacuum to run out of charge.
Q: What is the warranty on a good cordless handheld vacuum?
A: Most models come with limited warranties that cover defects during normal use for one year from the date of purchase.
Q: Where can I purchase the best cordless handheld vacuums?
A: The best cordless handheld vacuums can be purchased at any local department store or big box retailers such as Target, Walmart, Best Buy, or Home Depot, as well as online via Amazon.
Q: How does a cordless handheld vacuum compare to traditional vacuums?
A: Cordless handheld vacuums are much lighter and more easily maneuverable than traditional vacuums, making them ideal for quick clean-ups of small areas and hard-to-reach places. They can offer powerful suction comparable to that of a traditional vacuum and can be used on both carpet and hard surfaces.
Q: Do cordless handheld vacuums come with attachments?
A: Yes, many cordless handheld vacuums come with attachments such as a crevice tool and upholstery attachment for increased versatility.
