9 / 10
Best Robot Vacuum Cleaner
iRobot Roomba j7+ Robot Vacuum
Robot vacuums clean your floors without much effort on your part—and some even recharge themselves so you don’t have to do that, either. The iRobot Roomba j7+ returns to its base when finished cleaning, empties its bin into a sealed bag and then charges. It also has a built-in camera and navigation technology to automatically avoid household obstacles.
The Roomba j7+ has significantly more suction power than the Roomba 600 series, and it has an edge-sweeping brush to clean in tight corners. It’s compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, so you control it with your voice. That means you don’t even have to lift a finger to vacuum!
Pros
- Smart mapping and scheduled cleanings through app
- Compatible with Alexa and Google Home
- Features a self-emptying base
- Avoids pet waste
Cons
10 / 10
Best Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo
Roborock S7 Robot Vacuum and Mop
This robot vacuum doesn’t just pick up dirt and debris—it also mops! You can’t trust any robot vacuum with a water tank on your expensive accent rug, but the Roborock S7 is smart enough to raise its mop up to 5 milliliters when it detects carpet.
The sonic mopping system offers multiple scrub settings via a removable mopping plate and reusable microfiber pad. And it’s no slouch in the vacuum department, either, with LiDAR mapping and a multi-directional floating brush system. The brushes keep close to the ground for a deeper cleaning, even on uneven surfaces. They also resist hair tangling, so this one is a smart choice for homes with pets.
Pros
- Removable mopping plate lifts when carpet is detected
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home and Siri
- Wi-Fi connection and app control
- Features a reusable microfiber pad
- Has a washable air filter
Cons
- On the pricier side
What to Consider When Buying a Vacuum Cleaner
We asked Petar Dzaja about what to look for when it comes to shopping for a new vacuum cleaner. Here are his top five things to consider before buying:
- Suction and clog prevention: “The power of a vacuum cleaner is important (I recommend at least 150 air watts), but what’s more crucial is its ability to prevent clogs and maintain strong suction,” Dzaja says. “A well-designed suction hose and anti-clogging system can make a world of difference. Features like a self-cleaning brush roll or a ‘cyclone spin’ system can prevent dust clogging and ensure efficient cleaning.”
- Type of filter: “Vacuum cleaners come with different types of filters. Some have extra features like a HEPA filter or ULPA filter,” Dzaja says. “It’s important to understand the type of filter used and the maintenance it requires. If you prefer low maintenance, opt for a vacuum with a universal fit for filters.”
- Design and function: “The design of the vacuum cleaner matters a lot,” Dzaja advises. “It should be able to reach tight areas, durable and ideally lightweight. Also, consider the type of vacuum—upright, cordless, stick, cylinder or robot—that suits your cleaning needs.” Don’t forget to consider if you’d prefer a bagless or cordless vacuum.
- Noise level: “The noise level of a vacuum cleaner can affect its usage. If you live in an apartment complex or have pets and children, a quieter vacuum will likely be more suitable,” Dzaja says.
- Pet hair cleaning: “If you have pets, a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for pet hair removal is a must. These vacuums come with specific bristles, filters and accessories focused on dealing with pet hair,” Dzaja shares.
How We Found the Best Vacuum Cleaners
At Family Handyman, we believe that cleaning is an essential part of home improvement, and our team is constantly researching and testing the best cleaning products on the market. While bringing you the best vacuum cleaners on the market is part of our brand mission, we also consulted an expert for his authoritative opinion on the best vacuum cleaners.
After that, we looked at over 30 of the best-selling vacuum cleaners out there, narrowing our list down based on value, real-life consumer reviews, editor testing, brand reliability and individual cleaning needs. We’re confident that you’ll be pleased with the final 10 best vacuums on our list.
FAQ
How much should I spend on a good vacuum cleaner?
You don’t have to spend a lot of money on a vacuum cleaner for it to be effective. Our top choice above, the Shark Navigator Vacuum, will cost you a reasonable $200. However, if you’re looking for a high-end one to splurge on, some models will cost you $700 to $1,000 (or more).
How many years should a vacuum cleaner last?
According to Consumer Reports, vacuum cleaners last about eight years on average. Of course, the lifespan of any vacuum or household appliance will vary depending not only on the make and model, but also on the way it’s used. If you vacuum tough messes frequently (especially those with considerable amounts of long hair), your vacuum cleaner may have a shorter lifespan.
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