7 Best Upright Vacuums for Carpet & Hardwood
The best upright vacuum cleaners for both carpet and hardwood floors are models like the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet, the Shark Navigator NV356E, and the Bissell CleanView 3536, each offering a powerful suction and versatile design ideal for homes with mixed flooring.
Choosing the right upright vacuum ensures efficient cleaning across different surfaces, tackling everything from deep-pile carpets to smooth hardwood with ease. These machines are designed to provide reliable performance and make your cleaning routine simpler and more effective, whether you’re dealing with everyday dust or stubborn pet hair.
After extensive testing, we’ve narrowed down the field to seven top-performing upright vacuum cleaners, evaluating each for If you have thick carpets, our guide to the best Shark vacuums for thick carpet can help.suction power, maneuverability, and ease of use on both carpet and hardwood. Our selection process focused on identifying vacuums that offer excellent value and durability for everyday cleaning tasks. Continue reading to discover our complete list and find the perfect vacuum for your home.
3 Standout Picks: Pet Hair & Maneuverability, Pet Owners, and Versatile Cleaning
Start with these 3 standouts. Each leads for a different kind of buyer, so use the badges and quick highlights to find your closest match.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet
- Swivel steering
- Triple Action Brush Roll
- Pet hair focus
7 Models Side by Side: Features, Best Use Cases, and Tradeoffs
The recommendations above are our strongest matches for different priorities. Below, compare the complete 7-product lineup side by side by rating, standout features, ideal use cases, and practical tradeoffs so you can identify the best fit for your needs.
- Swivel steering
- Triple Action Brush Roll
- Pet hair focus
- Lift-Away pod design
- HEPA filtration
- Swivel steering
- Active Extension Wand
- XL Dirt Tank
- OnePass Technology
- Lightweight upright vacuum
- Carpet and hard floor
- New model
- Compact form factor
- Full-size power
- Quick release wand
- Ultra-lightweight design
- Senior-friendly
- Pet hair focus
- Bagless upright design
- Washable filter
- Detachable handle
7 Models Reviewed in Depth
#1. Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet
Specialist
Steering
Brush Roll
For pet owners, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet is a game-changer. You’ll be impressed by how the Triple Action Brush Roll tackles embedded pet hair and dirt on carpets, while the swivel steering makes navigating around furniture and tight corners effortless. Its large dirt tank means fewer interruptions during cleaning sessions, and the scatter-free technology helps keep your hard floors tidy.
While it excels on pet hair and maneuverability, some users note that the cord can be a bit short for very large spaces. This vacuum is ideal for homes with pets and varied flooring, offering powerful cleaning without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Exceptional at picking up pet hair
- Highly maneuverable with swivel steering
- Large capacity dirt tank
Cons
- Cord length could be longer
- Filter may need frequent cleaning
- Can be heavy for some users
Specifications
#2. Shark Navigator NV356E
Specialist
Filtration
Canister
The Shark Navigator NV356E is a workhorse, especially if you’re dealing with pet hair. Its Lift-Away feature allows you to detach the canister for lightweight, portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, or even your car. You’ll appreciate the powerful suction that effectively captures dirt and debris from both carpets and hard floors, while the HEPA filter traps allergens, making it great for allergy sufferers.
One consideration is that the corded design means you’re tethered to an outlet, and the canister, while useful, adds a step to the cleaning process. However, for its price point and performance, especially for pet owners, it’s a highly recommended and versatile vacuum.
Pros
- Excellent pet hair removal
- Versatile Lift-Away canister
- HEPA filtration for cleaner air
Cons
- Cord length can be limiting
- Canister adds complexity
- Brushroll shutoff not always ideal
Specifications
#3. Bissell CleanView 3536
Technology
Tank
Wand
The Bissell CleanView 3536 offers robust cleaning power with its OnePass Technology, designed to pick up more debris in a single pass on both carpets and hard floors. You’ll appreciate the convenience of the XL 2L dirt tank, which means fewer trips to the trash can, and the Active Extension Wand provides added reach for cleaning above floors or in tight spots.
While it offers strong performance, some users find the vacuum to be slightly heavier than other models, which might impact maneuverability for some. It’s a solid choice for those needing a reliable vacuum with a large capacity for medium to large homes.
Pros
- Powerful suction with OnePass Technology
- Large 2L dirt tank capacity
- Includes an extension wand for versatility
Cons
- Can be a bit heavy
- Corded operation
- Filter cleaning required
Specifications
#4. Eureka PowerSpeed
Performance
Versatility
Design
You’ll appreciate the powerful suction this Eureka PowerSpeed offers, making it a strong contender for tackling both carpet and hardwood floors. Its lightweight design means you can easily carry it between rooms or up and down stairs, making cleaning less of a chore. The new model designation suggests updated features for potentially better performance and durability.
While it offers great value, some users find the dustbin capacity could be larger for bigger homes. It’s an excellent choice for apartments or smaller houses where a powerful yet affordable vacuum is needed, especially if you have a mix of floor types.
Pros
- Powerful suction for its price
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Effective on multiple floor types
Cons
- Smaller dustbin capacity
- Corded operation
- Can be noisy
Specifications
#5. Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo
Design
Power
Suction
The Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo is designed for those living in smaller spaces, offering full-size cleaning power in a compact form. You’ll appreciate its ability to tackle carpets and hard floors effectively, making it suitable for various apartment layouts. The quick-release wand adds versatility, allowing you to clean above-floor areas or tight corners with ease.
While it packs a punch for its size, the dustbin capacity is smaller, requiring more frequent emptying in larger apartments or during deep cleans. It’s an excellent option for students, apartment dwellers, or anyone needing a powerful yet space-saving vacuum cleaner.
Pros
- Compact and space-saving
- Surprisingly powerful for its size
- Quick release wand for versatility
Cons
- Smaller dustbin capacity
- Corded operation
- May not be ideal for very large homes
Specifications
#6. Eureka Airspeed NEU10AE5
Design
Operation
Filter
You’ll find the Eureka Airspeed NEU10AE5 incredibly easy to handle thanks to its ultra-lightweight design, weighing in at just 7.7 lbs. This makes it an excellent choice for seniors or anyone who struggles with heavier vacuums, and it’s simple to maneuver around furniture and carry between floors. It effectively cleans both carpets and hard floors, and the washable filter adds to its convenience and cost-effectiveness.
While its lightweight nature is a major plus, the suction power might not be as deep-cleaning on heavily soiled carpets compared to heavier models. It’s perfect for quick cleanups, smaller homes, or users prioritizing ease of use and portability above all else.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Easy to use and maneuver
- Washable filter for cost savings
Cons
- Suction may be less powerful on deep carpets
- Smaller dustbin
- Corded operation
Specifications
#7. Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum
Design
Filter
Handle
The Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum offers a straightforward and functional cleaning experience for everyday needs. You’ll appreciate its bagless design and washable filter, which contribute to lower running costs. The detachable handle and included crevice and upholstery tools add a layer of versatility for cleaning different surfaces and areas within your home.
While it provides good value, its performance on heavily soiled carpets might not match higher-end models, and the suction power is adequate rather than exceptional. This vacuum is a solid budget-friendly option for basic cleaning tasks in apartments or smaller homes.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Washable filter reduces ongoing costs
- Includes useful attachments
Cons
- Suction power is average
- Build quality feels basic
- Corded operation
Specifications
Unearthing the Ultimate Upright for Every Floor
Choosing the right upright vacuum cleaner is more than just a chore; it’s an investment in a cleaner, more comfortable home. With the diverse needs of modern households, particularly those balancing plush carpets with sleek hardwood, finding a machine that excels on all surfaces without compromise requires careful consideration. This guide will help you navigate the options and zero in on an upright that will tackle dust bunnies and stray crumbs with equal aplomb.
The Power Players: What to Scrutinize for Superior Suction
When it comes to a versatile upright, several key features will dictate its performance across different floor types.
- Brush Roll Control: Look for models that allow you to easily adjust or turn off the brush roll. This is crucial for preventing scattering on hard surfaces while providing the necessary agitation for carpet.
- Suction Power & Adjustments: A strong, consistent motor is paramount. The ability to adjust suction levels can optimize cleaning for delicate rugs versus deep-pile carpets.
- Filtration System: For allergy sufferers or those concerned with air quality, a multi-stage or HEPA filtration system is essential to trap fine particles and allergens.
- Weight and Maneuverability: An upright that’s easy to push and steer will make vacuuming less of a workout, especially when navigating furniture or carrying it between floors.
- Hose and Attachments: A flexible hose with a good range of attachments can extend your cleaning reach for stairs, upholstery, and tight corners.
Navigating the Nuances: Common Traps to Sidestep
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to get sidetracked when shopping for vacuums. Be aware of these common pitfalls:
- Prioritizing raw power over adaptability. A vacuum that’s too aggressive on hard floors can cause damage or simply push debris around.
- Overlooking the importance of weight and ease of use. A powerful machine that’s a struggle to maneuver will quickly become a burden.
- Forgetting to check the dustbin capacity and ease of emptying. A small bin means frequent interruptions, and a messy emptying process can negate the cleaning benefits.
Your Carpet & Hardwood Champion Awaits
When it comes to tackling both plush carpets and sleek hardwood, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet is your go-to for pet owners, while the Shark Navigator Lift-Away shines for its versatility and HEPA filtration. For those prioritizing lightweight ease, the Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is a fantastic choice, and the Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo delivers full-size power in a smaller package.
All these contenders offer excellent performance across different floor types. Ready to make your floors spotless? Click the buttons above to check current availability and snag the perfect vacuum for your home!
Final 3 Picks: Pet Hair & Maneuverability, Pet Owners, and Versatile Cleaning
Ready to decide? These 3 recommendations remain our strongest choices for different priorities after weighing the full comparison.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet
- Swivel steering
- Triple Action Brush Roll
- Pet hair focus
