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What’s the stairs vacuum?
While there are thousands of vacuum cleaners, only a few of these are specifically designed for cleaning the stairs. Unlike the standard vacuum cleaners, this type of vacuum cleaners are portable and easy to use. Since the best vacuum cleaners for stairs have a small frame, they are easy to maneuver.
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Vacuum cleaner for stairs Buying Guide
Size and type
Vacuum cleaners come in different sizes, but the cleaning the stairs you want a vacuum cleaner that is small and lightweight. Preferably, choose one that is cordless and has a long run time. Be sure to factor in other intended uses. For example, if you intend to use your vacuum cleaner for just the small messes, then a smaller vacuum cleaner will do. However, if you want to use it for cleaning the entire house, you might want to choose a larger vacuum cleaner, especially one with a long power cord.Reach
Unlike corded vacuum cleaners, cordless cleaners are not limited to a specific radius. Provided that you keep the vacuum cleaners charged, you can use it anywhere in the house. Alternatively, corded vacuum cleaners have a specific reach, which is often dictated by the length of the power cord. Therefore, choose a vacuum cleaner that will cover the whole staircase without having to switch sockets.Suction
The suction power determines the ability to pick up dust and debris. Be sure to check the power rating before making a purchase. Also, check whether the vacuum cleaner loses its suction power as the dirt bin fills up.Ease of use
You want a vacuum cleaner that is not only easy to use but also easy to set up. Also, confirm if it takes time to empty the dirt bin and how hard it is to change the filters. Preferably, look for a vacuum cleaner that uses washable filters. They are easy to take out, but they also downgrade after every wash.
Best Vacuum For Cleaning Stairs Reviewed
1. Dyson V10 Absolute Cordless Vacuum Cleaner - excellent power and mobility
Highlights
According to the manufacturers, the Dyson V10 is the most powerful cordless vacuum cleaner. When it comes to carpet cleaning, the V10 is terrific. A test conducted on a medium-pile carpet showed that the Dyson V10 could suck all the debris in less than 24 seconds. The only downside of using such a powerful vacuum cleaner is the noise. It falls just a few decibels off the recommended 85 decibels. When switched to maximum mode, the V10’s sound power can reach up to 78 decibels.
Design
The Dyson for stairs features a modern design scheme that comprises of a trigger on the handle and a point-and-shoot style release dust cup. While this is a smart design, having such a release mechanism makes it harder to empty the dustbin. It also has a longer dust bin.
Performance
The Dyson V10 lives up to the hype by cleaning low pile carpet, hardwood floors, and high pile carpets with ease. It had no problem cleaning up spilled rice, sugar, kitty litter, and dog hair. Besides, the Dyson V10 requires about 3.5 – 4 hours to fully charge after which it can run for 60 minutes.Pro Tip
Pros
- Longer battery run time
- Offers better value for money
- Front-facing
- Impressive suction power
- easy to use
Cons
- Noise levels peaks at 78 decibels
2. Shark Navigator NV365E - has amazing power
Highlights
The Shark NV356E is the ideal vacuum for any household as its lightweight, easy to use, and has a huge canister. The Shark Navigator is a vacuum that is suited for use on bare floors and carpets. Among its notable features is the HEPA filter that removes allergens and the swivel steering. It’s arguably one of the best vacuum for cleaning stairs as it doesn’t lose suction. Other features include:
Anti-allergen seal technology
If you suffer from allergies due to exposure to pet dander or dust, this vacuum will be perfect for you. According to the manufacturer, it traps close to 99.9% of the dirt and allergens in the air. Thanks to the HEPA filter, you can now filter allergens and dust particles out of your air. It sucks in the allergens and blows out clean air.
Performance
The NV365E has a lightweight frame but still manages to deliver deep suction, especially on the carpets. Of course, this is an added advantage as the strong suction helps free up dirt and anything else in its way. While the strong suction is good, it also has a downside. For example. If you have small garments lying around on the floor while vacuuming, the vacuum will suck in everything, even the garments.
Pro Tip
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver around sharp corners
- High powered suction
- Ideal for hard floors and carpets
- Sucks in pet hair without clogging
Cons
- Small and tight hose
- Creates high pitch noise
3. Bissell Pet Hair Handheld Vacuum 33A1 - small but powerful
Highlights
If you own any pets, especially cats and dogs, you know how hard it is to clean after these animals. They will run around the house depositing pet hair in the oddest of places. Cleaning the hair can be a pain unless you have the best vacuum for pet hair and stairs. Fortunately, this is what the Bissell 33A1 has to offer. It’s lightweight thus easy to maneuver around sharp corners.
Key features
Among its key features is the flexible nozzle that adapts to the contours of whatever you are vacuuming. With such a versatile nozzle, it can be used to clean almost anything from hard surfaces to sofas, stairs, and recliners. It’s however best suited for upholstery and carpeted stairs.
Filtration
The Bissell 33A1 comes with a HEPA filter and multi-layer filtration system that cleans your air while sucking in allergens. For a vacuum cleaner in its price range, the filtration system of the Bissell 33A1 is rather impressive. However, keep in mind that the filtration system isn’t sealed. What this means is that there is no guarantee that all the allergens will be contained in the system when blowing back exhaust air.
Performance
Its primary function is to clean pet hair which it delivers without a doubt.Pro Tip
Pros
- Strong suction power
- Flexible rubber nozzle which is ideal for cleaning stairs and upholstery
- Has a HEPA filtration system
- Ergonomic handle
- Lightweight
Cons
- Short power cord
- Smaller dirt bin necessitates frequent emptying
4. Eureka Easy Clean 71B - Portable and lightweight
Highlights
Also known as the Quick Up, the Eureka 71B is an inexpensive yet powerful handheld vacuum. Weighing only 4.6 pounds, the Eureka 71B is easy to maneuver, which makes it ideal for cleaning stairways, car interiors, and small spills.
Design
It features a simple design which is easy to use. It also has a small frame which allows you to clean up small messes within no time. That small frame is a disadvantage in that it cannot handle larger messes. The Eureka 71B features the standard suction system and a dual-motor system. Since it comes with two mortars, the vacuum uses one motor to power the rotating brush head while the second motor provides suction power.
Usability and maneuverability
The Eureka 71B only has one button that you can use to toggle between off and on for hardwoods, dust cap release and on for carpet. Since the vacuum is handheld, it should not be difficult to maneuver. It has an easy-to-grip handle which, when combined with the lightweight, making it easy to control.
Don’t even think of vacuuming an entire floor with this vacuum. It’s a pain, and it will probably take the whole day to complete. Limit its use to small tasks such as spills, stains, pet hair, etc.Pro Tip
Pros
- Ideal for cleaning stairs and car interiors
- Relatively quiet
- Flexible hose adds to its versatility
- Automatic shut off when in danger of overheating
Cons
- Not ideal for larger messes
- Fills up quickly
- Short hose
5. Homasy Powerful Cyclonic Vacuum Cleaner - ultra long service life
Highlights
If you have been struggling to find the best way to vacuum stairs, look no further. The Homasy vacuum cleaner features an advanced filtration system that sucks in all the dirt and allergens from your carpets, couches, and other hard surfaces.
Build, design and power
The Homasy vacuum is designed to be a versatile cleaner that mostly handles light-duty tasks. And since it’s cordless, you can use it in your house, car, RV and even the boat. It uses four high capacity lithium batteries which is enough power to last you about 30 minutes. Once depleted, it takes about 3-4 hours to charge the battery fully.
Accessories and additional features
Compared to other cordless vacuum cleaners, the Homasy has a longer run time, and it features stainless steel filters. Not only are these filters easy to clean, but they are also sturdy. Typically, stainless steel filters last longer than HEPA filters. Also, the vacuum cleaners come with several accessories and extensions such as two types of nozzles and brush.Pro Tip
Pros
- Easy to clean and store
- Lightweight
- Long-lasting filters
- Comes with a motorized brush
- Features a powerful cyclonic filtration technique
Cons
- Needs more suction power
6. Shark Rocket Ultra-light Vacuum Cleaner HV292 - Portable and ultra lightweight
Highlights
The Shark Rocket HV292 is a corded handheld vacuum cleaner that comes with TruePet motorized brush, dusting brush, extended reach hose, and 12” crevice tool. It also has a transparent dirt bin, and it doesn’t lose suction even when the bin is full.
Design
It’s arguably one of the best handheld vacuum for carpeted stairs as it uses the motorized brush to pick up pet hair and dirt from your carpets, upholstery, stairs, and curtains. Weighing less than 4 pounds, the Shark Rocket is portable and comes with a 15-feet long cord for better reach. Unlike most vacuum cleaners for stairs, the Shark Rocket can handle a wide range of indoor tasks from small messes to larger nesses.
Usability
Due to its lightweight, the Shark Rocket is easy to carry around and has a 15-foot cord which should be enough to cover your stairs. It also has a washable mechanical air filter that you can clean after a few uses. However, experts recommend that you replace the filter regularly as its quality decreases over time. Although the air filter is good, it’s not as good as the HEPA filters.Pro Tip
Pros
- 15 feet long power cord for better reach
- Motorized dusting brush
- Excellent suction power
- Easy to assemble and use
Cons
- Washable filter downgrades after every wash
- The hose could be longer
7. Black & Decker BDH2000PL - Excellent and durable
Highlights
The Black & Decker BDH2000PL is one of the most efficient cordless stair vacuum as it has a 3 stage filtration system that is powered by the 20-volt lithium-ion battery. It also has a washable filter and a removable dirt chamber that is also washable.
Design
Cleaning the stairs require a compact and lightweight vacuum which is precisely what you get with the Black + Decker. It has a unique design that comprises of a top handle that is easy to grip. Below the handle is the lithium-ion battery. There is also a filter plus a transparent bin that has a capacity of about 15oz. At the front, there is a foldable nozzle whose design makes it easy to store in cramped spaces.
Performance
It takes approximately 2 hours to charge the lithium-ion battery fully, and when full, the LED indicator stops blinking. Once it’s fully charged, the 20V battery will power the vacuum for 15 minutes. During these 15 minutes, the vacuum will deliver a suction power of 35 air watts. This should be sufficient to clean your carpeted stairs.Pro Tip
Pros
- Easy to empty and clean
- Replaceable battery
- 2-year warranty
- Requires less storage space
- Powerful suction
Cons
- Not ideal for cleaning pet hair as it doesn’t come with a pet hair attachment. It will collect about 80% of the hair which is above average.