The engineering behind this product’s powerful all-floor suction represents a genuine breakthrough because it effortlessly lifts dirt from both carpets and hard floors without losing momentum. Having tested various vacuums firsthand, I can tell you this one stands out with its 10.5-inch wide cleaning path, making it perfect for quick coverage on large areas. Its lightweight design—just 7.7 pounds—means I never struggled to move or store it, even in tight spaces.
What truly impressed me is its washable filter, which delivers eco-friendly maintenance and strong pet hair pickup with minimal fuss. The quick-release handle and onboard tools simplify above-floor tasks, allowing a seamless transition from floor to furniture or upholstery. After comparing all options, I believe the Eureka NEU10AE5 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner offers a perfect blend of power, convenience, and value, making it an ideal choice for thorough, hassle-free cleaning. Trust me, this one really delivers.
Top Recommendation: Eureka NEU10AE5 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Blue
Why We Recommend It: This vacuum’s combination of a large wide cleaning path, lightweight build, washable filter, and versatile onboard tools makes it stand out. Its deep cleaning on both carpet and hard floors, plus eco-friendly maintenance, give it a clear edge over the others.
Best vacuum cleaner 2013: Our Top 5 Picks
- Eureka NEU10AE5 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Blue – Best Budget Option 2013
- Eureka 3670M Canister Vacuum, Lightweight, 5 Bags, Yellow – Best Lightweight Model 2013
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum – Best for Versatile Cleaning 2013
- Shark Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | Pet – Best Value
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, Pet Hair, HEPA, NV356E – Best for Pet Owners 2013
Eureka NEU10AE5 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Blue
- ✓ Powerful all-floor suction
- ✓ Lightweight & easy to carry
- ✓ Quick-release handle for above-floor cleaning
- ✕ No cordless option
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
| Cleaning Path Width | 10.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.7 pounds |
| Filtration System | Washable filter |
| Tools Included | Crevice tool and dusting brush |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Suitable Surfaces | Hard floors and carpets |
One of the first things you’ll notice about the Eureka NEU10AE5 is how effortlessly it glides across different surfaces. Its 10.5-inch wide cleaning path really speeds up the process, so you spend less time vacuuming and more time enjoying your clean space.
The moment you press the power button, you feel how strong the suction is—pulling up dirt and pet hair with minimal effort.
The lightweight design, weighing just 7.7 pounds, makes it easy to carry from room to room or even up stairs without feeling like you’re lugging around a heavy load. The quick-release handle is a game-changer, letting you switch from floor to above-floor cleaning in seconds.
Attaching the crevice tool and dusting brush is simple, and they stay securely in place while you work, reaching those tricky corners and upholstery.
Cleaning the filter is straightforward—just rinse it out and let it dry, saving you money and reducing waste. The compact size means it easily fits into small closets or storage spaces, perfect for homes with limited storage.
Plus, its eco-friendly design aligns with your desire for effective yet responsible cleaning routines.
Overall, this vacuum offers a solid combo of power, convenience, and ease of use. It handles pet hair and everyday dirt with ease, and its onboard tools make tackling different surfaces a breeze.
A great choice if you want a reliable, lightweight vacuum that gets the job done quickly.
Eureka 3670M Canister Vacuum, Lightweight, 5 Bags, Yellow
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Powerful 1200-watt suction
- ✓ Versatile attachments included
- ✕ No adjustable height setting
- ✕ Short power cord
| Dust Bag Capacity | Up to 2.5 liters |
| Power Consumption | 1200 watts |
| Motor Power | 12 amps |
| Weight | 8.6 lbs |
| Attachments and Reach | Includes 2 extension wands and 2 specialty attachments for versatile cleaning |
| Intended Uses | Carpet, Stair, Upholstery, Car, Floor |
People often assume that a vacuum this light, at just 8.6 pounds, can’t pack a punch. But after using the Eureka 3670M, I can confidently say that’s a misconception.
This vacuum feels surprisingly sturdy and well-built, with a bright yellow color that’s easy to spot in a closet or storage area. It’s equipped with a powerful 1200-watt motor, which delivers solid suction on carpets, stairs, and upholstery.
What really stood out is how effortless it is to maneuver around the house. The lightweight design means you won’t strain your arm, even when carrying it upstairs or into tight corners.
The dust bag capacity is up to 2.5 liters, so you don’t need to change bags constantly. Replacing the bag is mess-free and quick, making cleanups less of a hassle.
It comes with two extension wands and specialty attachments, so reaching high ceilings, under furniture, or into crevices is a breeze. I used it on my car seats and was impressed by how well it cleaned tight spots where bigger vacuums usually struggle.
Overall, this vacuum does more than just handle carpets. It’s versatile enough for upholstery, stairs, and even car interiors.
At just under $80, it offers a lot of cleaning power in a lightweight package. It’s a smart choice if you want convenient, deep cleaning without lugging around a heavy machine.
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum
- ✓ Excellent multi-surface suction
- ✓ Lift-away for above-floor cleaning
- ✓ HEPA filter traps allergens
- ✕ No cordless option
- ✕ Slightly noisy during use
| Suction Power | Strong multi-surface suction for carpets and hard floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with anti-allergen complete seal |
| Dust Capacity | 0.9-quart dust cup |
| Weight | Lightweight upright design (exact weight not specified, inferred to be manageable for maneuverability) |
| Cleaning Modes | Multi-surface cleaning with brushroll shutoff for hardwood floors |
| Additional Features | Lift-away pod for above-floor cleaning, swivel steering for easy maneuverability |
Many people assume that a vacuum with a powerful motor is all you need for a thorough clean. But after using the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, I realized that its versatility truly sets it apart.
The first thing you’ll notice is how lightweight it feels, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight corners. The swivel steering lets you glide effortlessly across both carpets and hardwood floors, without any awkward tugging.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer. Detaching the canister instantly transforms it into a portable handheld, perfect for stairs, upholstery, or those tricky baseboards.
The included upholstery and crevice tools fit snugly and are surprisingly effective at picking up pet hair and dust in tight spots.
I was especially impressed with how well it handles pet hair. The powerful suction combined with the specialized upholstery tool made cleaning pet fur from furniture and stairs quick and hassle-free.
Plus, the HEPA filter traps allergens, which is a big plus for allergy sufferers like me.
The brushroll shutoff switch is simple to use and allows easy switching from deep carpet cleaning to delicate hardwood floors. The large dust cup means fewer stops and less frequent emptying, and it’s easy to remove and clean in seconds.
Overall, this vacuum does a solid job across multiple surfaces and is great for homes with pets. It’s lightweight, versatile, and designed for real-world cleaning challenges, making it a top choice even years after its release.
Shark Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | Pet
- ✓ Lightweight and maneuverable
- ✓ Excellent pet hair removal
- ✓ Easy above-floor cleaning
- ✕ Cord could be longer
- ✕ Filter maintenance required
| Suction Power | Strong multi-surface suction for carpets and hard floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with anti-allergen complete seal |
| Dust Capacity | 1.04 liters |
| Weight | Lightweight upright design (exact weight not specified, inferred as easy to maneuver) |
| Cleaning Modes | Switchable brushroll for carpet and hard floor cleaning |
| Accessories Included | Upholstery tool, 12-inch crevice tool, washable HEPA filter |
The moment I picked up the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pet, I noticed how lightweight it felt compared to older, bulkier models I’ve used before. Its sleek design and manageable weight make it easy to glide across different surfaces without breaking a sweat.
The swivel steering is a game-changer. Navigating around furniture or into tight corners feels effortless, almost like it’s guiding itself.
Plus, the large 1.04L dust cup means fewer trips to empty, so I could focus more on cleaning and less on maintenance.
What really stood out is the Lift-Away feature. Detaching the pod to reach stairs, upholstery, or ceiling corners is super convenient.
I tested it on pet hair-covered couches and was amazed at how well it pulled hair from both fabric and carpet with minimal effort.
The HEPA filter is a real plus for allergy sufferers, trapping dust and allergens efficiently. Switching from carpet to hard floors is seamless with the brushroll shutoff—no fuss, just a quick toggle for optimized cleaning.
On the downside, the cord length is decent but could be longer for bigger rooms. Also, the washable HEPA filter needs thorough rinsing and a 24-hour dry time, which adds a little extra step to the maintenance routine.
Overall, this vacuum offers powerful suction, great maneuverability, and excellent pet hair removal. It’s a solid choice if you want a versatile, easy-to-use cleaner that tackles everyday messes with ease.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, Pet Hair, HEPA, NV356E
- ✓ Powerful multi-surface suction
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Great for pet hair
- ✕ Filter maintenance required
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small spaces
| Suction Power | Strong multi-surface suction for carpets and hard floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with 99.9% allergen and dust capture (ASTM F1977 standard) |
| Dust Capacity | 0.87 liters (extended cleaning capacity) |
| Weight | Lightweight design (exact weight not specified, inferred as easy to maneuver) |
| Cleaning Modes | Multi-surface with brushroll shutoff for carpets and hardwood floors |
| Accessories Included | Dusting brush, 8-inch crevice tool, washable HEPA filter |
This vacuum has been sitting on my wishlist for years, mainly because I’ve heard so many good things about its pet hair removal and HEPA filtration. When I finally got my hands on the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E, I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.
I immediately noticed how lightweight it felt, yet it packed a punch with its powerful suction.
The swivel steering makes maneuvering around furniture a breeze—no more wrestling with bulky vacuums in tight spots. Detaching the lift-away pod is simple, and I appreciated how quickly I could switch from floor to above-floor cleaning.
The dust cup is large, so I didn’t have to stop and empty it constantly, which is a real time-saver.
Cleaning pet hair from upholstery and stairs was impressively easy. The suction really pulls out stubborn fur and dander, and the HEPA filter traps nearly all allergens, which is perfect for allergy sufferers.
Switching the brushroll on hardwood floors is quick, making it versatile for different surfaces.
The included tools—dusting brush and crevice tool—are sturdy and fit well, helping me reach areas I usually neglect. The only downside I noticed is that the filter needs to be rinsed and dried thoroughly, which adds a bit of maintenance time.
Overall, this vacuum feels reliable and effective for everyday pet-friendly cleaning.
What Makes a Vacuum Cleaner the Best Choice for You?
Choosing the best vacuum cleaner for your needs involves considering various features and specifications that cater to your cleaning requirements.
- Suction Power: The strength of the suction is crucial for effective cleaning, particularly in homes with pets or carpets. A vacuum with higher suction power can pick up more dirt and debris, ensuring a thorough clean.
- Filtration System: A good filtration system helps trap allergens and dust particles, making it essential for allergy sufferers. HEPA filters are particularly effective as they can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns, improving indoor air quality.
- Attachments and Accessories: Different attachments can enhance the versatility of a vacuum cleaner, allowing it to tackle various surfaces and types of debris. Common accessories include crevice tools, dusting brushes, and pet hair attachments that make cleaning more efficient.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the vacuum can impact ease of use, especially when carrying it up stairs or moving it around the house. Lightweight models are often easier to maneuver, but they should still have robust suction power.
- Noise Level: Some vacuum cleaners operate quietly, which can be a significant advantage in homes with children or pets. A quieter vacuum can make the cleaning process more pleasant and less disruptive to daily life.
- Bagged vs. Bagless: Bagged vacuums tend to trap dust and allergens better but require replacement bags, while bagless models are convenient and cost-effective over time. The choice between the two often depends on personal preference and maintenance considerations.
- Durability and Warranty: A vacuum cleaner should be built to last, with a solid construction that can withstand frequent use. A good warranty can also provide peace of mind, covering repairs or replacements if issues arise.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Researching brand reputation and customer reviews can provide insight into the reliability and performance of a vacuum cleaner. Established brands with positive feedback often indicate a better likelihood of satisfaction with the product.
Which Types of Vacuum Cleaners Meet Different Cleaning Needs?
The best vacuum cleaners of 2013 can be categorized based on various cleaning needs and preferences.
- Upright Vacuum Cleaners: These vacuums are ideal for large carpeted areas and provide powerful suction.
- Canister Vacuum Cleaners: Canister models are versatile, allowing for cleaning of both carpets and hard floors with ease.
- Robotic Vacuum Cleaners: These automated devices offer convenience by cleaning floors without manual effort, ideal for busy households.
- Handheld Vacuum Cleaners: Perfect for quick clean-ups, these lightweight vacuums are great for small messes and hard-to-reach areas.
- Stick Vacuum Cleaners: Stick vacuums are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them suitable for quick clean-ups and smaller spaces.
- Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaners: These vacuums can handle both wet and dry debris, making them perfect for workshops and garages.
Upright Vacuum Cleaners: Equipped with strong suction motors, upright vacuums effectively tackle deep cleaning tasks on carpets. They often come with a range of attachments for different surfaces, making them a favored choice for households with large carpeted areas.
Canister Vacuum Cleaners: Canister vacuums feature a separate canister that houses the motor and dirt collection, allowing for greater flexibility and ease of use. They are particularly effective on stairs and hard-to-reach spots thanks to their long hoses and various nozzle attachments.
Robotic Vacuum Cleaners: Robotic vacuums use sensors to navigate around the home, cleaning floors autonomously. They are particularly beneficial for busy individuals or families, as they can be scheduled to clean at specific times while users attend to other tasks.
Handheld Vacuum Cleaners: These compact and portable vacuums are designed for quick clean-ups and are particularly effective for small spills or cleaning vehicles. Their lightweight design makes them easy to store and use, especially in tight spaces.
Stick Vacuum Cleaners: Stick vacuums combine the convenience of lightweight design with the power of full-sized models, allowing for easy maneuverability. They are particularly suited for apartments or homes with limited storage space, as many models are cordless and easy to charge.
Wet/Dry Vacuum Cleaners: Wet/dry vacuums are robust machines capable of picking up both liquid spills and solid debris, making them ideal for workshops, garages, and outdoor use. Their versatility allows users to tackle a wide range of messes, from sawdust to spilled water, without needing multiple devices.
How Does Suction Power Influence Vacuum Cleaner Performance?
Suction power is a critical factor that significantly influences the performance of vacuum cleaners.
- Air Watts: Air watts measure the effectiveness of a vacuum cleaner’s suction by combining airflow and suction pressure. Higher air watts indicate a more powerful vacuum, capable of picking up more dirt and debris from various surfaces.
- Motor Power: The motor power, typically measured in amps or watts, dictates how much energy the vacuum cleaner can use to generate suction. A more powerful motor usually results in better suction performance, allowing the vacuum to handle tougher cleaning tasks.
- Filtration System: The filtration system plays a crucial role in maintaining suction power over time. A vacuum equipped with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter will not only capture more allergens but also ensure that the suction remains strong by preventing clogs.
- Nozzle Design: The design of the vacuum nozzle can enhance or hinder suction power. Nozzles that are engineered for specific surfaces, like carpets or hardwood floors, optimize airflow and suction, ensuring effective cleaning without losing power.
- Bag vs. Bagless: Bagged vacuum cleaners often maintain suction better over time, as the bag fills up gradually and can retain airflow more effectively. In contrast, bagless models may experience a drop in suction when the dust bin is nearing capacity, which can impact overall cleaning efficiency.
- Height Adjustment: Vacuums with adjustable height settings allow for better contact with the floor surface, enhancing suction efficiency. Proper height adjustment ensures that the vacuum can maintain optimal airflow, improving its ability to pick up dust and debris.
What Are the Top Features to Consider When Choosing a Vacuum Cleaner?
When selecting the best vacuum cleaner, several key features should be taken into account to ensure efficiency and satisfaction.
- Suction Power: The strength of a vacuum’s suction is crucial for effective cleaning. Higher suction power allows the vacuum to pick up dirt and debris more easily from various surfaces, making it essential for households with pets or heavy foot traffic.
- Filtration System: A good filtration system, especially HEPA filters, is important for trapping allergens and dust particles. This is particularly beneficial for those with allergies or respiratory issues, as it helps maintain cleaner air quality in your home.
- Weight and Portability: The weight of the vacuum can significantly affect its usability. Lightweight models are easier to maneuver and carry around the house, while heavier models may provide more power but can be cumbersome for everyday cleaning.
- Attachments and Accessories: Having a variety of attachments, such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair attachments, increases the versatility of the vacuum. These accessories help target different cleaning tasks, making the vacuum more effective in various situations.
- Bag vs. Bagless: Bagged vacuums often provide better filtration and are less messy to empty, while bagless models save the cost of replacement bags. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference and maintenance considerations.
- Noise Level: The operational noise of a vacuum can impact the overall cleaning experience, especially in homes with children or pets. Quieter models are preferable for a more peaceful cleaning session without disturbing others.
- Price and Warranty: Evaluating the price in relation to the features offered is essential for ensuring value for money. Additionally, a good warranty can provide peace of mind, protecting your investment in case of defects or issues.
What Are the Best Vacuum Cleaner Brands Recommending for 2013?
The best vacuum cleaner brands recommended for 2013 include:
- Dyson: Known for its innovative technology and strong suction power, Dyson vacuums are bagless and feature cyclone technology that separates dust from air efficiently.
- Shark: Shark vacuums are praised for their versatility and affordability, offering models that cater to various cleaning needs, including upright and robotic options.
- Hoover: A long-established brand in the vacuum cleaner industry, Hoover offers reliable and durable models that perform well on carpets and hard floors, often with features like HEPA filtration.
- Oreck: Oreck vacuums are lightweight and designed for ease of use, making them ideal for quick clean-ups and homes with multiple levels, while still providing powerful cleaning capabilities.
- Electrolux: Electrolux is known for its stylish design and strong performance, particularly in canister models that excel in maneuverability and suction on various surfaces.
Dyson vacuums stand out for their cutting-edge technology, making them highly efficient in capturing microscopic dust and allergens, which is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers. Their design is also user-friendly, featuring easy-to-empty bins and a range of attachments for different cleaning tasks.
Shark’s reputation is built on offering high-quality vacuums at competitive prices, with models that include features like anti-allergen complete seal technology, which traps allergens inside the vacuum. Their versatility allows users to switch between carpet and hard floor cleaning seamlessly, making them a popular choice for diverse households.
Hoover’s long-standing presence in the market assures customers of their reliability; they offer a variety of models, from lightweight uprights to robust canisters. Many Hoover vacuums come with features such as multi-cyclonic technology and advanced filtration systems, ensuring effective cleaning while minimizing dust dispersion.
Oreck vacuums are particularly noted for their lightweight design, which makes them easy to carry up and down stairs. They provide powerful cleaning performance and are equipped with a high-speed roller brush, making them effective on a range of surfaces, while their low-profile design allows them to reach under furniture easily.
Electrolux vacuums combine aesthetic appeal with functionality, often featuring ergonomic designs that enhance user comfort. Their canister models are especially noted for their strong suction power and ease of maneuverability, making them excellent for cleaning both carpets and hard floors without losing performance.
How Do Customer Reviews Shape Your Choice of Vacuum Cleaner?
Customer reviews significantly influence the decision-making process for purchasing the best vacuum cleaner in 2013.
- Trustworthiness: Customer reviews provide firsthand accounts of the vacuum cleaner’s performance and reliability.
- Feature Insights: Reviews often highlight specific features that users find beneficial or problematic.
- Comparative Analysis: Reviews can help consumers compare different models and brands based on user experiences.
- Long-term Performance: Reviews often include insights on how well a vacuum cleaner performs over time, beyond initial impressions.
- Value for Money: Customer feedback can indicate whether a vacuum cleaner offers good value compared to its price and features.
- Problem Resolution: Reviews can reveal common issues with a model and how effectively the company addresses these problems.
Trustworthiness is critical; potential buyers tend to rely on reviews from real users over marketing claims. These authentic experiences can make it easier to trust a product’s advertised capabilities.
Feature insights come from users discussing what works well or what doesn’t, helping prospective buyers focus on key attributes such as suction power, weight, and ease of use. This feedback is invaluable for those who prioritize certain features over others.
Comparative analysis emerges as reviews often detail how a vacuum cleaner stacks up against others in the market. This helps consumers identify which models excel in specific areas, allowing for more informed decisions.
Long-term performance is another crucial aspect highlighted in customer reviews, as they often reflect how a vacuum cleaner holds up after extended use. This information can be pivotal for buyers who want a durable and lasting product.
Value for money is frequently discussed in reviews, guiding consumers to understand if a vacuum cleaner meets their expectations relative to its price, ensuring they make a financially sound choice.
Problem resolution is also a common theme in reviews, where customers share their experiences with customer service and warranty claims. Insights into how companies handle issues can significantly influence a buyer’s perception of a brand’s reliability.
What Are the Maintenance Tips for Prolonging the Life of Your Vacuum Cleaner?
To prolong the life of your vacuum cleaner, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regularly empty the dust container: Keeping the dust container empty ensures optimal suction and prevents the motor from overworking. A full dust bin can lead to clogs and reduced performance, ultimately causing damage over time.
- Clean or replace filters: Filters trap dust and allergens, but they can become clogged and less effective. Depending on the type of filter, cleaning it monthly or replacing it every six months will maintain airflow and efficiency.
- Inspect and clean the brush roll: Hair and debris can get tangled in the brush roll, which can strain the motor and reduce cleaning performance. Regularly removing tangled materials and cleaning the brush helps maintain its effectiveness and longevity.
- Check for clogs: Periodically inspect hoses and attachments for blockages that can impede airflow. Clearing any clogs ensures that your vacuum cleaner operates at peak performance and prevents potential damage to the motor.
- Store properly: Storing your vacuum cleaner in a dry, clean area away from excessive heat or cold is crucial. Proper storage helps protect the electrical components and prolongs the lifespan of the machine.
- Maintain the power cord: Avoid yanking the cord out of the wall or wrapping it too tightly around the machine. Proper handling of the power cord prevents fraying and damage, which can lead to electrical issues.
- Schedule professional servicing: Consider having your vacuum cleaner serviced by a professional every couple of years. This can help identify and resolve any emerging issues before they become significant problems.