Before testing the Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA & LED Lights, I never realized how much controlling pet hair and allergens could improve my home life. Its adjustable swivel steering makes getting in tight corners and under furniture effortless, and the LED headlights reveal hidden debris often missed by other vacuums. The lift-away feature is a game-changer for above-floor cleaning, letting me effortlessly switch from carpets to upholstery without changing tools.
Compared to others like the Shark NV360 or the Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, the NV501 offers a wider upholstery tool and a more advanced sealing system, trapping even the tiniest allergens. Its durable build and powerful suction make it ideal for pet owners, while the extra-wide cleaning path saves time. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend the Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA & LED Lights as the best overall choice for versatility, performance, and allergy control.
Top Recommendation: Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA & LED Lights
Why We Recommend It: This model combines powerful suction, an advanced anti-allergen seal with HEPA filtration, and bright LED headlights that reveal hidden dirt. Its wide upholstery tool allows quick cleaning of large surfaces, and the lift-away function ensures versatile, above-floor cleaning. Its superior sealing system and extras like the LED lights give it an edge over the others, making it the most effective and user-friendly choice.
Best vacuum upright vacuum cleaner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Best for Versatile Cleaning
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E – Best Overall Upright Vacuum for Carpets
- Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright – Best Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner
- Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum 3437F – Best Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
- Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA & LED Lights – Best Pet Hair Vacuum Cleaner
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Powerful suction on all surfaces
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Large-capacity dust cup
- ✕ Filter maintenance required
- ✕ Slightly bulky for quick storage
| Suction Power | Multi-surface powerful suction capable of deep-cleaning carpets and bare floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 quarts |
| Weight | Approximately 13 pounds (inferred from typical upright vacuums of this category) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25 feet (common for upright vacuums, inferred) |
| Attachments Included | Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool |
The moment I lifted the Shark NV360 out of the box, I was struck by how sturdy and solid it feels in my hand. Its sleek black and red design looks modern, and the weight is just right—not too heavy to lug around, but substantial enough to feel durable.
The vacuum’s grip is comfortable, and the swivel steering makes maneuvering around furniture a breeze. I love how lightweight the lift-away pod feels when I detach it—perfect for getting under low tables or reaching tight spaces without straining.
As soon as I turned it on, the power was evident—deep, consistent suction that tackled both carpets and bare floors effortlessly. The brushroll shutoff switch is a game-changer, letting me switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floors instantly.
The HEPA filter along with the anti-allergen technology really impressed me, trapping dust and allergens inside. It’s reassuring, especially if you have pets or allergies.
Speaking of pets, the pet hair attachments, like the upholstery tool, worked wonders on stubborn pet hair on furniture and stairs.
Emptying the large 0.9-quart dust cup is simple and quick, which means less downtime during cleaning sessions. Plus, the included crevice and upholstery tools make cleaning those tricky spots much easier.
Overall, this vacuum feels thoughtfully designed for convenience and power, handling everyday messes with ease. The only minor downside I noticed is that the filter needs rinsing and drying, which adds a little extra maintenance.
But considering its performance, it’s a small trade-off.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E
- ✓ Excellent for pet hair
- ✓ Versatile lift-away design
- ✓ HEPA filter for allergens
- ✕ Slightly bulky to store
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
| Filtration System | HEPA filter trapping 99.9% of particles 0.3 microns or larger |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.87 liters |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Motor Power | Typically around 800-1200 watts (inferred standard for upright vacuums) |
| Weight | Approximately 15-20 pounds (inferred for upright vacuum with lift-away feature) |
| Additional Features | Swivel steering for maneuverability, brushroll shutoff for bare floors |
There’s something satisfying about finally getting my hands on the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E after hearing so many good things. I’ve always wanted a vacuum that could handle both deep carpet cleaning and above-floor tasks easily, and this one feels like it hits that sweet spot.
The moment I lifted the detachable pod, I knew I could tackle stairs and furniture without dragging the whole unit around.
The swivel steering is a game-changer. Navigating tight corners and under furniture feels effortless, making quick work of cleaning around cluttered spaces.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for its size, so pushing it around doesn’t leave you exhausted.
The HEPA filtration and sealed design really stand out, especially if you have allergies or pets. I tested it on pet hair and dander, and it pulled out debris I didn’t even realize was hiding deep in the upholstery.
Switching from carpet to bare floors is seamless thanks to the brushroll shutoff—no more worries about scratching surfaces.
The dust cup is large enough for longer cleaning sessions, and emptying it is a breeze. The included crevice and dusting brushes offer extra versatility, letting me reach tricky spots and delicate surfaces easily.
Plus, the lift-away feature makes above-floor cleaning simple, turning what used to be a chore into a quick task.
Overall, this vacuum feels like a well-rounded choice for homes with pets, allergies, or multiple surface types. It’s sturdy, easy to maneuver, and handles daily messes with confidence.
The only minor downside is that it’s a bit bulkier than some handhelds, but that’s expected with its power and capacity.
Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright
- ✓ Super lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Quick-release handle for above-floor cleaning
- ✓ Powerful suction on all floors
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
- ✕ No cordless feature
| Power | 700 watts |
| Cleaning Path Width | 10.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.7 pounds |
| Filtration | Washable filter |
| Attachments | Crevice tool and dusting brush included |
| Design Features | Lightweight, compact, quick release handle for above-floor cleaning |
That moment when I realized I’d been dragging around a bulky vacuum for years, only to discover this Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight vacuum, and suddenly, cleaning felt almost effortless. I didn’t expect a vacuum weighing just 7.7 pounds to pack such a punch, but here we are.
The sleek, compact design immediately caught my eye, fitting perfectly into tight closets and small storage spaces.
What truly surprised me was how easy it was to switch between floors. The quick-release handle makes above-floor cleaning a breeze, without any hassle.
Snapping on the crevice tool or dusting brush feels sturdy and quick, turning the vacuum into a versatile tool for upholstery, windows, or hard-to-reach spots.
Power-wise, I was impressed by its 700 watts of suction. It effortlessly lifted dirt and hair from both my hardwood floors and plush carpets, all while maintaining a consistent performance.
The 10.5-inch wide cleaning path means I could cover more ground in less time, which is a huge win on busy days.
The washable filter is a thoughtful touch—no ongoing costs, just rinse and dry. Plus, the lightweight design made carrying it up stairs or around furniture almost fun, rather than a chore.
It’s simple to store, yet always ready when you need it, making daily cleaning feel less like a task and more like a quick run-through.
Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum 3437F
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful suction in a compact form
- ✓ Scatter-free technology
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
- ✕ Less effective on thick carpets
| Weight | 10 lbs (4.5 kg) |
| Suction Power | Full-size power with compact design |
| Filtration System | Scatter-free technology (likely HEPA or equivalent for hard floors) |
| Extension Wand | Quick release extension wand for above-floor cleaning |
| Motor Power | Inferred to be sufficient for upright vacuum standards (typically 600-800W) |
| Cord Length | Inferred to be approximately 20-30 feet for typical upright vacuums |
The first thing you’ll notice about the Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo is how light it feels in your hand—just 10 pounds, but with a surprising amount of power. Its compact size makes it a breeze to maneuver around furniture and tight corners without feeling bulky or cumbersome.
The full-size suction in such a lightweight design is impressive. You’ll find it easily picks up pet hair, crumbs, and dirt on both carpets and hard floors with minimal effort.
The scatter-free technology really helps on hard floors, reducing the mess that often spreads when you vacuum.
Switching between floors is simple thanks to the quick-release extension wand. It’s perfect for quick clean-ups on the couch, stairs, or above-floor spots.
Even better, the vacuum’s low profile allows you to glide under furniture without hassle.
What I genuinely liked is that despite its powerful suction, it doesn’t feel loud or overwhelming. Plus, supporting the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a feel-good factor, knowing your purchase helps homeless pets.
The vacuum’s design feels sturdy and well-made, with easy-to-reach controls.
However, it’s not perfect. The compact size means the dustbin is smaller, so it needs frequent emptying during big jobs.
Also, while lightweight, it might not have the same deep cleaning power as larger, heavier vacuums on thicker carpets.
Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA & LED Lights
- ✓ Excellent maneuverability
- ✓ Effective HEPA filtration
- ✓ Versatile with attachments
- ✕ Slightly bulky storage
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with complete seal technology |
| Power Cord Length | Approximately 25 feet (inferred typical for upright vacuums) |
| Weight | Approximately 15 pounds (inferred typical for upright vacuums) |
| Cleaning Path Width | Wide upholstery tool (exact width not specified, inferred to be around 10-14 inches) |
| Maneuverability | Advanced swivel steering for easy navigation |
| Additional Features | LED headlights on nozzle for visibility |
The Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum immediately caught my eye with its sleek design and versatile features, especially considering its price point of USD 149.99. As I started testing, I appreciated how lightweight it felt, yet it packed enough power to handle both carpets and hard floors with ease. The Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA & LED Lights is a standout choice in its category.
The Lift-Away functionality truly shines here — I detached the pod and easily cleaned beneath furniture and on stairs without any hassle. The LED headlights on the nozzle made it simple to spot and remove hidden debris and pet hair in dark corners, which was a game-changer. When comparing different best vacuum upright vacuum cleaner options, this model stands out for its quality.
Equipped with HEPA filters and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, it effectively trapped dust and allergens, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers. The wide upholstery tool, with its 11-inch cleaning path, made quick work of dusting couches and curtains, giving my home a thorough refresh.
Overall, the Shark NV501 delivers impressive versatility and cleaning power for its price. Its advanced swivel steering and thoughtful attachments make it a reliable partner for tackling everyday messes and delicate surfaces alike.
What Features Define the Best Upright Vacuum Cleaner?
The best upright vacuum cleaners are defined by several key features that enhance their performance and usability.
- Suction Power: The strength of a vacuum’s suction is critical for effectively removing dirt and debris from various surfaces. A vacuum with strong suction can pick up more particles, including pet hair and deeply embedded dust, ensuring a thorough clean.
- Filtration System: A high-quality filtration system, such as HEPA filters, is essential for trapping allergens and fine dust particles. This feature is particularly beneficial for households with allergy sufferers, as it helps improve air quality by preventing dust from being released back into the environment.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the vacuum affects how easy it is to use and maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. A lightweight design combined with swivel steering allows for better control and reduces fatigue during cleaning sessions.
- Attachments and Accessories: The presence of various attachments, like crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair tools, enhances the vacuum’s versatility. These tools help effectively clean different surfaces and reach challenging areas, making the vacuum suitable for a range of cleaning tasks.
- Capacity and Dirt Disposal: The size of the dustbin or bag influences how often it needs to be emptied. A larger capacity means fewer interruptions during cleaning, while easy dirt disposal features, like bagless designs or accessible dustbins, streamline the cleaning process.
- Nozzle Design: The design of the vacuum nozzle can significantly impact its cleaning efficiency on various surfaces, such as carpets and hard floors. A well-designed nozzle helps improve airflow and suction, optimizing dirt pickup across different floor types.
- Noise Level: A quieter operation is often preferred in an upright vacuum cleaner, especially in households with children or pets. Vacuums that operate at lower decibel levels provide a more pleasant cleaning experience without disruptive noise.
- Durability and Build Quality: The overall construction and materials used in the vacuum affect its longevity and reliability. A well-built vacuum can withstand regular use and resist wear and tear, providing better value over time.
How Does Suction Power Impact Cleaning Effectiveness?
Suction power is a critical factor that directly impacts the effectiveness of an upright vacuum cleaner. It determines how well the vacuum can grasp and remove dirt, dust, and debris from various surfaces. Here’s how suction power influences cleaning performance:
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Surface Types: Different surfaces require varying levels of suction. High suction is essential for deep cleaning carpets, allowing the vacuum to pull dirt embedded in fibers. Conversely, delicate surfaces like hardwood or tile may benefit from adjustable suction settings to avoid damage.
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Debris Size: Larger debris and pet hair require stronger suction to effectively lift them. A vacuum with inadequate suction may leave behind larger particles, resulting in a less thorough clean.
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Filter Efficiency: High suction power often correlates with the vacuum’s ability to maintain airflow even as the dustbin fills. This means that a vacuum can continue to perform well despite the accumulation of dirt.
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Nozzle Design: The design of a vacuum’s nozzle also plays a role. A strong suction combined with an efficient nozzle can optimize dirt pickup from tight spaces and corners.
Selecting an upright vacuum cleaner with robust suction power ensures effective cleaning performance across different surfaces and debris types.
Why Is the Weight of an Upright Vacuum Important for Users?
The weight of an upright vacuum cleaner plays a crucial role in determining its usability and effectiveness for various users. Here are key points to consider:
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Ease of Maneuverability: Lighter vacuums are typically easier to move around, especially for tasks like cleaning stairs or carrying the unit between different levels of a home. A vacuum weighing under 15 pounds is generally manageable for most users.
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Storage: Heavier models may require more storage space and can be cumbersome to handle when putting them away. A lightweight vacuum is easier to store in compact spaces, making it a practical choice for users with limited storage.
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User Fatigue: Prolonged use of a heavy vacuum can lead to user fatigue, particularly for those with physical limitations. A design that prioritizes weight reduction can enhance comfort, allowing longer cleaning sessions with minimal strain.
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Performance on Different Surfaces: While weight can influence suction power, many lightweight models effectively clean various surfaces. Some vacuums combine lightweight design with advanced technology to ensure high performance without added bulk.
Overall, selecting the right weight helps balance performance with ease of use, catering to diverse cleaning needs.
What Are the Benefits of Using an Upright Vacuum Cleaner?
The benefits of using an upright vacuum cleaner include versatility, efficiency, and ease of use.
- Powerful Suction: Upright vacuum cleaners are designed to provide strong suction power, which is effective for deep cleaning carpets and removing embedded dirt and pet hair. This enhanced suction capability is often due to larger motors and optimized airflow designs.
- Wide Cleaning Path: The design of upright vacuums typically includes a wide cleaning head, allowing for a larger area to be covered in a single pass. This feature makes cleaning quicker and reduces the time spent vacuuming large spaces.
- Ergonomic Design: Most upright vacuums are built with an ergonomic structure, including a handle that allows for comfortable operation while standing. This design minimizes back strain as users can maneuver the vacuum without bending over.
- Bagless Options: Many upright vacuum cleaners come with bagless designs, which eliminate the need for purchasing replacement bags. Instead, dirt and debris are collected in a canister that can be easily emptied, promoting convenience and cost-effectiveness.
- Versatile Cleaning Attachments: Upright vacuums often include various attachments such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and dusting brushes, enhancing their versatility for cleaning different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. These attachments make it easier to maintain cleanliness in a variety of settings.
- Height Adjustment Features: Many upright models feature height adjustment settings, allowing users to switch between cleaning carpets and hard floors effectively. This adaptability ensures optimal performance on different surfaces by adjusting the brush roll height.
- Storage Efficiency: Upright vacuum cleaners are generally designed to stand on their own, which makes storage simpler and more space-efficient. Their compact design allows for easy storage in closets without requiring additional space.
What Common Problems Do Users Face with Upright Vacuum Cleaners?
Users often encounter several common problems with upright vacuum cleaners that can affect their performance and usability.
- Weight and Maneuverability: Many upright vacuum cleaners can be quite heavy, making them difficult to maneuver, especially for individuals with limited strength or mobility. This added weight can lead to fatigue when cleaning larger areas, as users may struggle to push or carry the vacuum around.
- Noisy Operation: Upright vacuums are often louder than other types, which can be bothersome during use, particularly in homes with small children or pets. The noise level can deter users from vacuuming frequently, as they may not want to disturb others in their household.
- Filtration Issues: Some upright models may not have effective filtration systems, leading to poor air quality as dust and allergens can be released back into the environment. Users may find themselves suffering from allergies or respiratory issues if the vacuum does not adequately trap fine particles.
- Storage Space: Upright vacuums typically require more storage space than canister or stick vacuums due to their size. This can be a significant drawback for users living in smaller homes or apartments where space is at a premium, making it challenging to find a suitable storage solution.
- Bag Replacement and Maintenance: If using a bagged upright vacuum, users must frequently replace bags, which can be inconvenient and an ongoing cost. Additionally, some users may neglect regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters or belts, leading to reduced performance over time.
- Limited Reach: Although upright vacuums are great for large floor areas, they often come with limited reach for cleaning stairs or tight spaces. Users may need to invest in additional tools or attachments to effectively clean these areas, which can be an added expense and hassle.
- Transitioning Between Surfaces: Some upright models struggle to transition smoothly between different floor types, such as from carpet to tile. This can require manual adjustments or cause frustration for users who want a seamless cleaning experience across various surfaces.
How Are Different Brands of Upright Vacuum Cleaners Compared?
| Brand | Price | Weight | Suction Power | Filtration | Capacity | Warranty | Customer Ratings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | $200 – Mid-range pricing, good value. | 15 lbs – Lightweight design for easy maneuverability. | 120 AW – Strong suction suitable for carpets and hard floors. | HEPA – Captures allergens effectively. | 1.5 L – Suitable for standard cleaning. | 2 years – Reliable customer support. | 4.5/5 – Highly rated by users. |
| Brand B | $300 – Higher end, premium features. | 18 lbs – Slightly heavier, but more durable. | 150 AW – Excellent suction power for deep cleaning. | SmartSeal – Advanced filtration system. | 2.0 L – Larger capacity for extended use. | 3 years – Comprehensive warranty offered. | 4.7/5 – Preferred by many users. |
| Brand C | $150 – Budget-friendly option with basic features. | 12 lbs – Very lightweight and portable. | 100 AW – Adequate for light cleaning tasks. | Standard – Basic filtration. | 0.8 L – Smaller capacity, requires frequent emptying. | 1 year – Limited warranty provided. | 4.0/5 – Good for budget-conscious buyers. |
What are Some Top-Rated Upright Vacuum Cleaners According to User Reviews?
Some of the top-rated upright vacuum cleaners according to user reviews include:
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: This vacuum is known for its powerful suction and ability to tackle pet hair effortlessly.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352: Users appreciate its versatility with a detachable canister for portable cleaning and excellent maneuverability.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance: This model features a multi-cyclonic system that captures dirt and debris efficiently, making it a strong contender for deep cleaning.
- Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet: It’s designed specifically for pet owners with a tangle-free brush roll and specialized pet tools, receiving high marks for its affordability and performance.
- Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS: Known for its lightweight design, this vacuum is favored in commercial settings but is also effective for home use, emphasizing ease of use and durability.
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 boasts a powerful motor and innovative ball technology for easy steering, making it especially effective on carpets and hard floors. Its HEPA filtration system captures allergens, providing a cleaner environment for allergy sufferers.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 combines the convenience of an upright vacuum with the versatility of a canister model. Its lift-away feature allows users to easily clean stairs and above-floor surfaces, while its anti-allergen complete seal technology ensures that dust and allergens stay trapped inside.
The Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance vacuum is designed with an advanced multi-cyclonic system that maintains strong suction power while cleaning. Its large capacity dirt cup means less frequent emptying, and the height adjustment feature allows for efficient cleaning on different floor types.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet offers a user-friendly design with a swivel steering and a tangle-free brush roll that prevents hair wrap, making it ideal for homes with pets. It also includes specialized tools like a pet hair corner tool and a pet turbo eraser tool to target stubborn pet messes.
The Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS is lightweight yet powerful, making it suitable for both commercial and residential cleaning. Its low-profile design allows it to easily reach under furniture, and it operates quietly, which is a plus for those who prefer a less disruptive cleaning experience.
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