5 Best Vacuum for Apartments [In 2025]

Living in an apartment comes with unique challenges, especially when it comes to keeping your space clean and tidy. You need a vacuum that’s powerful enough to handle daily messes but compact enough to fit in your limited storage space. The good news? You don’t have to sacrifice cleaning power for convenience anymore.

Finding the perfect vacuum for your apartment can feel overwhelming with so many options available. Should you go with a lightweight stick vacuum or invest in a compact upright? What about noise levels for your neighbors? We’ve done the research and tested the top contenders to bring you this comprehensive guide.

Top 5 Best Vacuums for Apartments: Detailed Reviews

After extensive research and analysis of user reviews, we’ve narrowed down the field to five outstanding vacuum cleaners that excel in apartment living. Each offers unique benefits, and we’ll help you determine which one fits your specific needs.

1. Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum (3508)

The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright stands out as our top pick for apartment living. This lightweight powerhouse weighs less than 8 pounds but doesn’t compromise on suction power. It’s designed specifically for smaller living spaces without sacrificing the performance you’d expect from a full-sized vacuum.

Key Features and Specifications

• Weight: Under 8 pounds
• Filter Type: Washable disk filter
• Special Features: Scatter-Free Technology, removable extension wand
• Cord Type: Corded (not cordless)
• Included Components: Brush attachment

This vacuum incorporates Bissell’s innovative Scatter-Free Technology, which captures messes on hard floors without scattering debris around. The removable extension wand adds versatility, allowing you to reach high shelves and tight corners with ease.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptionally lightweight at under 8 pounds
• Powerful suction that rivals larger vacuums
• Easy-empty dirt container with push-button release
• Scatter-Free Technology prevents mess spreading
• Excellent value for money
• Great for low to medium pile carpets
• Compact storage design

Cons:

• Can get warm after extended use
• May require breaks during large cleaning sessions
• Not ideal for very thick carpets
• Corded design limits mobility

Best For

This vacuum is perfect for apartment dwellers with a mix of hard floors and low to medium pile carpets. It’s especially great for elderly users or anyone who values lightweight maneuverability without sacrificing cleaning power.

2. Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum (3437F)

The Turbo version takes everything great about the original CleanView Compact and adds extra features that make it ideal for pet owners and those dealing with stubborn dirt and debris.

Key Features and Specifications

• Weight: 10 pounds
• Filter Type: Foam filter
• Special Features: Quick Release Extension Wand, floor surface adjustment
• Cord Type: Corded with extra-long cord
• Included Components: Pet hair brush attachment

The standout feature is the floor surface adjustment, allowing you to optimize cleaning for different surfaces with a simple foot pedal. The extra-long cord means fewer outlet changes during cleaning sessions.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Powerful suction excellent for pet hair
• Floor surface adjustment for optimal cleaning
• Extra-long cord covers large areas
• Quick-release extension wand
• Lightweight and maneuverable
• Great for both carpets and hard floors
• Easy to empty and clean

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than the basic model
• Pet brush attachment may not work as effectively as expected
• Plastic construction may feel less durable
• Accessories can fall off during use

Best For

Pet owners living in apartments will love this vacuum. It’s also ideal for those with multiple floor types who want the convenience of surface adjustment without the bulk of a full-sized vacuum.

3. Dirt Devil Simpli Stik Plus 3-in-1 Vacuum Cleaner

The Dirt Devil Simpli Stik Plus offers incredible versatility in a budget-friendly package. Its 3-in-1 design transforms from a stick vacuum to a handheld unit, making it one of the most adaptable options for apartment living.

Key Features and Specifications

• Weight: Lightweight design (specific weight not specified)
• Filter Type: Rinsable disk filter
• Special Features: 3-in-1 design (stick, handheld, detail)
• Cord Type: Corded
• Included Components: Vacuum with convertible design

The rinsable filter is a standout feature, eliminating the need for frequent filter replacements and saving money over time.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent value for money
• 3-in-1 versatility for different cleaning needs
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Perfect for small spaces and storage
• Rinsable filter reduces maintenance costs
• Great for hardwood and tile floors
• Low noise operation
• Ideal for people with mobility limitations

Cons:

• Limited suction power for thick carpets
• Not suitable for deep carpet cleaning
• Cannot attach crevice tools in some configurations
• Best suited for surface cleaning only

Best For

This vacuum is perfect for apartment dwellers with primarily hard floors, elderly users, or anyone needing a lightweight, versatile cleaning solution. It’s also excellent for students in dorms or anyone on a tight budget.

4. Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum (2033M)

The Featherweight lives up to its name, offering incredible portability and convenience for quick cleanups and detailed cleaning tasks. It’s designed for users who prioritize lightweight handling and versatility.

Key Features and Specifications

• Weight: Ultra-lightweight design
• Filter Type: Foam filter
• Special Features: 3-in-1 design (stick, handle, stair vacuum)
• Cord Type: Corded
• Included Components: Crevice tool, floor nozzle

The three-in-one design allows you to use it as a stick vacuum, handheld unit, or stair vacuum, making it incredibly versatile for apartment cleaning.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and portable
• Excellent for quick pickups and detail work
• Great value for the price
• Perfect for stairs and tight spaces
• No drive belts to maintain or replace
• Easy storage in small spaces
• Excellent for edges and corners
• Safe around power cords (no rotating brushes)

Cons:

• Small dirt container requires frequent emptying
• Not suitable as a primary vacuum for large areas
• Limited to surface cleaning on carpets
• Narrow cleaning path requires multiple passes
• Not effective on high-pile or plush carpets

Best For

This vacuum is ideal for apartment dwellers who need a secondary cleaning tool for quick pickups, stairs, and detail work. It’s perfect for elderly users, students, or anyone who values ultra-lightweight convenience.

5. Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner

The Eureka Blaze combines modern design with practical functionality, featuring signature swivel steering and a powerful 2-amp motor that punches above its weight class.

Key Features and Specifications

• Weight: 4 pounds
• Filter Type: HEPA filter (washable)
• Special Features: Swivel steering, capture nozzle, 3-in-1 design
• Cord Type: 18-foot power cord
• Included Components: Onboard crevice tool, HEPA filter

The signature swivel steering improves maneuverability significantly compared to standard stick vacuums, while the capture nozzle design picks up larger debris that other stick vacuums might push around.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight at only 4 pounds
• Excellent swivel steering for easy maneuvering
• Powerful 2-amp motor for effective cleaning
• Long 18-foot cord reduces outlet changes
• Washable HEPA filter improves air quality
• X-Large dust cup reduces emptying frequency
• Works well on multiple surfaces
• No hair tangles in brush roll
• Great value for money

Cons:

• Can be challenging on very plush carpets
• Filter requires regular cleaning
• May need multiple passes for thorough cleaning
• Corded design limits mobility

Best For

The Eureka Blaze is perfect for apartment dwellers who want a lightweight, maneuverable vacuum with excellent filtration. It’s particularly good for those with allergies or pets, thanks to its HEPA filtration system.

Why Choosing the Right Vacuum Matters for Apartment Living

When you’re living in a smaller space, every appliance needs to earn its place. Your vacuum cleaner is no exception. The right choice can make cleaning effortless and even enjoyable, while the wrong one can turn this necessary chore into a frustrating experience.

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Space Constraints and Storage Solutions

Let’s face it – apartment closets aren’t exactly spacious. You need a vacuum that won’t dominate your storage area or require a dedicated closet. The best apartment vacuums are designed with compact storage in mind, often featuring cord wraps, detachable components, and slim profiles that fit into tight spaces.

Think about where you’ll store your vacuum when it’s not in use. Can it fit in your coat closet? Will it stand upright in a corner without taking up too much floor space? These practical considerations are just as important as cleaning performance.

Noise Considerations for Neighbors

Your upstairs neighbor vacuuming at 6 AM isn’t exactly pleasant, is it? When you’re sharing walls, floors, and ceilings with others, noise levels become a crucial factor. The vacuums we’ve selected strike a balance between powerful suction and reasonable noise levels, so you can clean without disturbing your neighbors.

Power and Performance in Compact Design

Don’t let the smaller size fool you – today’s apartment vacuums pack serious cleaning power. Modern motor technology allows manufacturers to create lightweight, compact machines that rival their full-sized cousins in performance. You’ll be amazed at what these little powerhouses can accomplish.

Buying Guide: What to Look for in an Apartment Vacuum

Choosing the right vacuum for your apartment involves considering several key factors that might not be as important in larger homes. Let’s break down what really matters when you’re shopping for an apartment vacuum.

Size and Weight Considerations

In apartment living, size definitely matters. You’ll want a vacuum that’s easy to store, light enough to carry up stairs, and compact enough to navigate around furniture in smaller rooms. Look for vacuums under 10 pounds if possible, and consider how the unit will fit in your storage space.

Think about your physical capabilities too. If you have mobility issues or back problems, an ultra-lightweight model like the Eureka Blaze at 4 pounds might be worth the investment, even if it means sacrificing some features.

Suction Power vs. Noise Level

While you want effective cleaning power, you also need to be considerate of your neighbors. Look for vacuums that offer strong suction without excessive noise. Most of our recommended models strike this balance well, but it’s worth reading user reviews to get real-world feedback on noise levels.

Versatility and Multi-Surface Cleaning

Apartments often feature a mix of flooring types – hardwood in the living areas, tile in the kitchen and bathroom, and carpet in bedrooms. A vacuum that can handle multiple surfaces effectively will serve you better than one that excels at only one type of flooring.

Storage and Cord Management

Consider how and where you’ll store your vacuum. Look for models with cord wraps, wall-mounting options, or compact designs that fit easily in closets. Some models can be stored vertically, which saves floor space in cramped closets.

Maintenance Tips for Your Apartment Vacuum

Proper maintenance will keep your vacuum running efficiently and extend its lifespan. Since you’re working with a smaller, more affordable unit, taking care of it becomes even more important.

Regular Filter Cleaning and Replacement

Most apartment vacuums feature washable filters, which is great for your budget. Clean filters monthly or more frequently if you have pets or allergies. A clean filter ensures optimal suction and prevents the motor from overworking.

Rinse washable filters with cool water and let them air dry completely before reinstalling. Never use hot water or put filters in the dryer, as this can damage the filter material.

Proper Storage Techniques

Store your vacuum in a dry area to prevent moisture damage. Wind the cord properly to prevent kinks and damage. If your vacuum has detachable parts, store them together so nothing gets lost.

Budget-Friendly Options vs. Premium Features

All of our recommended vacuums fall into the budget-friendly category, typically ranging from $30 to $80. This price range offers excellent value for apartment dwellers who don’t need the heavy-duty features of commercial-grade vacuums.

The key is identifying which features matter most to you. If you have pets, invest in a model with better filtration and pet-specific attachments. If you have mobility issues, prioritize ultra-lightweight models. If you’re dealing with multiple floor types, look for adjustable settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can these apartment vacuums handle pet hair effectively? A: Yes, several of our recommended models excel at pet hair removal. The Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo and Eureka Blaze are particularly effective for pet hair, with specialized features designed to capture and contain pet dander and fur.

Q: How often should I clean the filters in these vacuums? A: For optimal performance, clean washable filters at least once a month, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies. Most users find that cleaning filters every 2-3 weeks maintains excellent suction power.

Q: Are these vacuums suitable for deep carpet cleaning? A: These vacuums are designed for regular maintenance cleaning rather than deep carpet cleaning. They work well on low to medium pile carpets but aren’t substitutes for professional carpet cleaning or heavy-duty upright vacuums for thick, plush carpets.

Q: What’s the difference between corded and cordless apartment vacuums? A: All our recommended models are corded, which provides consistent power and eliminates battery life concerns. Corded vacuums are typically more affordable and don’t require charging, making them ideal for apartment use where storage and simplicity are priorities.

Q: Can I use these vacuums on stairs? A: Yes, most of these models are excellent for stairs due to their lightweight design. The Bissell Featherweight and Eureka Blaze are particularly good for stair cleaning, and several models can convert to handheld units for easier stair navigation.

Conclusion

Finding the perfect vacuum for your apartment doesn’t have to be complicated. The five models we’ve reviewed offer excellent solutions for different needs and budgets. Whether you choose the powerful Bissell CleanView Compact for its exceptional suction, the versatile Dirt Devil Simpli Stik for its 3-in-1 design, or the ultra-lightweight Eureka Blaze for easy maneuverability, you’ll be getting a vacuum that’s specifically suited for apartment living.

Remember, the best vacuum is the one you’ll actually use regularly. Consider your specific needs, storage constraints, and budget when making your decision. Any of these five options will serve you well and make keeping your apartment clean a much more manageable task.

Don’t let limited space limit your cleaning standards. With the right compact vacuum, you can maintain a spotless apartment without sacrificing storage space or breaking the bank.