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7 Best Bagged Vacuums of 2024

Updated
If you like your dirt sealed in a bag, you’ll love these seven vacuums.

Is the performance of your current vacuum starting to decrease? Are the pet hairs piling up on your carpet? We get it – you’re in the market for a new one. However, with many vacuum types available, it’s hard to know which kind to consider.

Bagged vacuums have been in the game for a long time. But what gives them their staying power? Among other things, they seal dirt away and tend to make less of a mess.

So, if you prefer your dirt locked away in a bag while you vacuum, you’re probably interested in one of these best bagged vacuums. Keep reading for our seven picks.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Miele Classic C1
Best Overall
Miele Classic C1
  • AirClean filter included
  • Lots of power
  • Perfect maneuverability
Product Image of the Miele Marin C3
Best Canister
Miele Marin C3
  • Premium electric brush head
  • Five floor settings
  • Large working radius
Product Image of the Oreck Professional
Best Commercial
Oreck Professional
  • User-friendly and lightweight design
  • Large bag
  • Easy cord replacement
Product Image of the Bissell Zing
Best for Multi-Surface Homes
Bissell Zing
  • Practical easy-to-use design
  • Cord retraction
  • Multi-layer filtration
Product Image of the Hoover WindTunnel
Best for Pet Hair
Hoover WindTunnel
  • Excellent for pet hair
  • No-touch bag release
  • Fitted headlight & no-scuff bumper
Product Image of the Eureka Mighty Mite
Best Lightweight Pick
Eureka Mighty Mite
  • Only weighs 8.9 pounds
  • 1,500W suction power
  • HEPA filter
Product Image of the Oreck XL2100RHS
Best for Low-Carpet Homes
Oreck XL2100RHS
  • Lightweight and powerful
  • 12-inch cleaning path
  • User-friendly handle

Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, our thorough analysis and hands-on research ensure that you receive the most accurate and reliable information when it comes to the best bagged vacuums. Our assessment process involves comparing various products based on key decision-making factors such as performance, design, and user experience. We evaluate each vacuum’s efficiency, suction power, and filtration system, and rank them based on our findings. Our professional team of experts tests and scores each vacuum, providing you with first-hand evidence and results to help you make an informed decision. We also identify unique features that set one bagged vacuum apart from its competitors, ensuring that you choose the best product for your needs. Trust Oh So Spotless to guide you through your bagged vacuum selection journey.



The Best Bagged Vacuum Reviews of 2024

Check out our reviews of these seven brilliant bagged vacuums.

Miele Classic C1 Canister Vacuum

Best Overall Bagged Vacuum

Immense power in an aesthetically pleasing package is what this Miele C1 is all about. But what makes us love Miele is that its beauty goes beyond the exterior.

Inside sits a powerful 1,200-watt motor, guaranteeing a high output of suction power. Plus, it includes several accessories such as a floorhead, dusting brush, upholstery, and crevice tool to make up your cleaning essentials.

Miele made the vacuum exterior from high-quality ABS plastic. This vacuum is so durable, it’s backed by a seven-year warranty. Miele also included its AirClean system — a thorough filtration feature.

What We Like

Aesthetic and Durable Design

We highly recommend this limited edition vacuum if you enjoy having nice-looking equipment at home. Miele put extra emphasis on the exterior, creating a beautiful angled and curved shell. Then they coated it in subtle graphite grey.

It is great to look at, but it’s also durable as well. The ABS material is sturdy yet lightweight.

Lots of Power from 1200 Watt Motor

Power is essential when it comes to vacuums, but so is control. Miele gives you both in its limited edition. It’s a Vortex 1,200-watt Miele motor offering you the choice of bringing it down to 300 watts which is great for cleaning curtains.

Plus, it’s fitted with a Pure Suction Combination Floorhead. By using the footswitch, you can set it to hard floors or carpeting. For smooth gliding, it has a metal soleplate and small rubber wheels to avoid scratching the floor.

Perfect Maneuverability With 360-Degree Wheels

Under the canister sits three 360-degree castor wheels, making movements as smooth as possible. The wheels sit on steel axles, giving excellent stability while enforcing effortless maneuverability. Additionally, Miele gives you a 29.5-feet power cord.

Place the wand into Miele’s park system when you need to take a break. It’s practical and eliminates the need to rest it against a wall.

AirClean Filter Included

The AirClean system is composed of Miele’s dust bag and protection filter for the motor and exhaust. It ensures optimal filtration, leaving almost no particles in the room.

Additionally, it has a self-sealing collar, confining everything inside the machine. Dirt and dust have no chance of escaping.

What We Don't Like

Cord Is Shorter Than Stated

The description states that with the cord, you’ll have a 29.5-feet working radius. However, a few disappointed users pointed out that the cable is much too short for that. Some measured it to be 17 feet.

Product Specs

Type of vacuum Canister
Power 1,200 watts
Weight 13 pounds
Warranty Seven-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Suction Power
4.5 / 5
Filtration Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

I've been using this vacuum for quite some time now and it's proven to be a reliable and efficient choice for various flooring types, including hardwood and low pile carpets. The powerful suction makes cleaning a breeze, while the lightweight and quiet design makes it a pleasure to use. Just be prepared to invest in the Miele brand bags for optimal performance, but overall, this vacuum is definitely a solid choice for those who value quality and durability.

Miele Marin Complete C3 Canister Vacuum

Best Canister Bagged Vacuum

Miele is behind some of the best vacuum cleaners in the market, and its Complete C3 doesn’t disappoint. With an attractive marine color, this vacuum packs a punch.

It has a 1,200-watt motor with fitted suction control, allowing you to set it for a specific task. You can also choose between five different height settings — perfect for low to high carpets.

Miele stresses that it’s ideal for carpet cleaning, thanks to its Electro Comfort brush. The electrobrush head is where the practicality reaches its climax. It features a Parquet Twister, 180-degree swivel, and LED headlights.

What’s more, the automatic self-adjusting setting lets the vacuum think for itself and change according to the surface.

What We Like

Premium Electric Roller Brush Head

The brush head is one of our favorite features of this vacuum. It’s an electrically driven roller, specifically made for carpet cleaning. It measures approximately 14 inches wide, giving you a significant span.

When you turn the vacuum on, the brush underneath spins. This drives out dust and dirt from your carpet into the suction. Just retract the brush with the footswitch as you move to hard floors.

Five Floor Settings for Flexible Cleaning

Even though it’s perfect for rugs, it also includes settings for hard and bare floors. It lets you choose between five different heights suitable for high carpets to uncovered flooring.

What’s more, it has six-speed settings, which you adjust as you transition between them. The machine will automatically reduce power when you move to a carpeted surface. Then, once you pull out onto the floor, it increases power again.

Large Working Radius

Miele states that you get 36 feet of working radius before needing to change the outlet. It has a long cord — which retracts with the push of a button — and a long stainless steel wand.

LED Lights and Swivel

Miele placed a row of LED lights on the brush to illuminate hard-to-see places. It also adds to the appeal of the vacuum, giving it a techy touch. The head can turn 180 degrees, reaching spots you otherwise wouldn’t be able to.

What We Don't Like

Suction Clogs at 90-Degree Angle

Although the head can turn 180 degrees, it sometimes struggles at the 90-degree mark. A few users report that the vacuum’s suction significantly reduces as if that angle blocks the tube.

Product Specs

Type of vacuum Canister
Power 1,200 watts
Weight 10.35 pounds
Warranty Seven-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Suction Power
4.5 / 5
Filtration Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

I'm absolutely loving the Miele C3 Kona vacuum cleaner for its powerful suction and versatility on various surfaces, including carpets and hardwood floors. The HEPA filter is a fantastic feature, trapping allergens and microscopic particles, making it perfect for those with allergies or asthma. The vacuum is also impressively quiet, so I can clean without disturbing others in the house. I appreciate the built-in storage for attachments, making it easy to switch between tasks and keep everything organized. Although it's a bit pricey, I believe the high-quality performance and durability of the Miele C3 Kona vacuum cleaner makes it well worth the investment.

Oreck Commercial, Professional Upright Vacuum

Best Commercial Bagged Vacuum

If you’re looking for an efficient upright vacuum, we highly recommend this one from Oreck. It’s versatile and lightweight, weighing about eight pounds. Plus, it fits comfortably close to walls and under furniture.

To keep the suction going, a cog-V Endurolife belt motor whirls the helix head brushes at 9,500 RMPs. It’s incredibly durable and efficient, especially for hard floors.

It features a 620 cubic inch bag designed to fill up without decreasing the suction power. What’s more, Oreck included a 40-foot power cord, providing plenty of room to clean before changing the outlet.

What We Like

Powerful Suction Brushes

The brushes on this vacuum are fast and efficient and create just enough turbulence. So all the small particles loosen their grip and are pulled right up to the suction.

The belt responsible for turning the brush is Oreck’s special Endurolife. As the name suggests, it can endure heavy usage with ease.

User-Friendly and Only Weighs 8 Pounds

The machine weighs approximately eight pounds — easy to carry with you from room to room. Many also point out that the handle is comfortable and easy to use. You get complete control right from your fingertips, thanks to the button at the top.

Large 620 Cubic Inch Dust Bag

The vacuum has a 620 cubic inch dust bag. So, it can hold a lot of dirt before requiring a change. Additionally, as it fills up, it preserves the machine’s suction power.

Easy Cord Replacement

Oreck makes it super easy to replace the cord. It’s attached via a clamp, so simply remove and replace it if something should break.

What We Don't Like

No Cord Retraction System

Oreck didn’t include a retraction system or hook for the long 40-feet power cord. This may prove to be an annoyance while cleaning and storing.

Product Specs

Type of vacuum Upright
Power Not Specified
Weight 8 pounds
Warranty One-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Suction Power
4.5 / 5
Filtration Efficiency
3.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Community Feedback

My experience with this lightweight vacuum has been fantastic, making it easy for me to clean my tri-level home, even at 70 years old. The long cord is a major plus, as I can reach all rooms without having to unplug constantly. Although some said the cord is stiff, I had no issues and believe it will soften over time. It's important to use the correct vacuum bags (PK800025DW) to ensure optimal performance. The vacuum is quite loud, but I adjusted quickly and it doesn't affect the excellent job it does on carpets and hard floors.

Bissell Zing 2154 Bagged Canister Vacuum

Best Bagged Vacuum for Multi-Surface Homes

Practical and light as a feather is how we describe this multi-surface vacuum. It ranks high among bagged canister vacuums, thanks to its ability to effectively remove pet hair.

Although the rug is where it thrives, take it for a spin on hard flooring, and you’ll see what it can do. Its ergonomic handle fits comfortably in your hand, and it glides effortlessly at your commands.

You can change the settings to suit a carpet or floor with a flip of a switch. The telescoping wand allows you to get under furniture and other hard-to-reach places. Once you’re done, the cord retracts with the push of a button until next time.

What We Like

Practical and User-Friendly Design

This Bissell bagged vacuum is super practical. Everything from the ergonomic handle to the telescopic wand makes it easy to use. The flexible hose is 6-feet long, giving you incredible reach under furniture and up the drapes.

To suit various floors, it comes with a multi-surface nozzle. And toggling between modes requires only the push of a button. What’s more, although it’s not specifically made for it, many users mention how effective it is at removing pet hair.

Cord Retraction System

The power cord isn’t the longest, but it does come with a retraction system activated by a button. It rewinds smoothly once you’ve finished cleaning, keeping it out of sight during storage.

Multi-Layer Filtration

The filtration is extra thorough. Dust and dirt go through several layers, each catching a certain amount until nearly none is let through the exhaust. This makes this the perfect choice for people sensitive to dust.

Remember, though, that we still recommend HEPA for those with allergies.

Bissell offers separate dust bags and filters to replace the old ones. It’s recommended to change the filters once in a while. Unfortunately, the machine doesn’t have a filter indicator light but double-check while changing the bags.

What We Don't Like

Not Optimal for Carpet Work

The canister has tiny wheels on the side, and it doesn’t glide as smoothly. When you use it on carpets, it tends to get stuck. Some users find this annoying, especially since rugs are where pet hair is often found.

Not for Heavy-Duty Work

This vacuum performs well for everyday tasks such as crumbs on the carpet or dust on the floor. However, it’s not for heavy-duty jobs. Given its nine amps power, this is a disappointment.

Product Specs

Type of vacuum Canister
Power 9 amps
Weight 7.5 pounds
Warranty One-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Suction Power
3.5 / 5
Filtration Efficiency
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I recently purchased a lightweight canister vacuum cleaner, and it has been a fantastic addition to my cleaning routine. The vacuum's suction is powerful, yet adjustable, making it perfect for various surfaces, including hardwood floors and hard-to-reach areas like under furniture. While I still use my other vacuum for carpets, this little gem excels on hard floors, and the bagless design allows me to see all the dirt and dust I've collected. It's easy to empty and clean, although you must remember to wash the filters each time.

Hoover WindTunnel Pet Upright Vacuum

Best Bagged Vacuum for Pet Hair

We certainly do cherish our pets — but they leave behind a fair amount of mess. No matter how much we love them, the shedding hair has got to go. Hoover specifically designed this vacuum to fit a household with pets.

It consists of a Pet Approved Windtunnel System, adorably called P.A.W.S. The system is composed of Hoover’s WindTunnel Technology, enforced by a HEPA filter to trap pollen and dust.

Two other great features are the One Touch and Clean-Drop bag systems. You can quickly access the dust bag and release it into the bin without touching it.

What We Like

Excellent for Pet Hair

The P.A.W.S system combines two features excellent for keeping pet allergies at bay.

Windtunnel Technology separates fixed dirt and hairs stuck to surfaces while minimizing scatters and blowbacks. The other excellent component of P.A.W.S is the use of activated carbon HEPA filters.

This filter is particularly thorough. It can trap 99.9 percent of pollen and dust, down to 0.3 microns. The carbon used absorbs odors around the house while the vacuum is in use.

No-Touch Bag Release

Hoover includes the One Touch door and Clean-Drop Bag systems to ensure there’s no contact with the vacuumed content.

One Touch is a release system, enabling a smooth opening for the bag door. Then the Clean-Drop Bag lets you press a button, and the dust bag is released into the bin.

Practical Settings and Long Cord

The cord has a great length, measuring 30 feet. You can quickly go from one room to another without unplugging. On the vacuum’s head is a brush roll, which you engage when you transition from floor to carpet.

You can choose between five heights suitable for thick carpets to bare floors. Hoover also included several accessories such as an air-powered tool, pet upholstery tool, extension wand, and crevice tool.

Fitted Headlight and No-Scuff Bumper

This vacuum is fitted with a useful headlight, helping you spot hiding hairs and other dirt. What’s more, it has a No-Scuff bumper: a rubberized edge on the head preventing damages to your furniture.

What We Don't Like

Loud Machine – May Scare Pets

Pets such as cats and dogs can get spooked by loud sounds (1). While many users said it didn’t scare their pets, they still noted that it was pretty noisy.

Cord Tangles Easily

The cord is quite long, and unfortunately, there’s no retraction system or hook to contain it. This is definitely an inconvenience. It tangles while you’re vacuuming and is challenging to store.

Product Specs

Type of vacuum Upright
Power Not Specified
Weight 15 pounds
Warranty Two-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Suction Power
4 / 5
Filtration Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

When I first started using the Hoover WindTunnel Max UH30600, I was impressed by its powerful suction and how well it cleaned various surfaces in my home. However, the hose length and attachment design left much to be desired, as they were difficult to use effectively and often became dislodged during use. Despite these drawbacks, the vacuum's ability to easily transition between carpet and hard floors, as well as its bag release feature, make it a decent choice for those seeking a reliable cleaning experience.

Eureka Bagged Mighty Mite Canister Vacuum

Best Lightweight Bagged Vacuum

If you’re searching for a lightweight vacuum with plenty of power, look no further. Eureka’s Mighty Mite weighs less than nine pounds but packs a 1,500-watt motor.

It comes with several pet hair attachments as well as a HEPA filter. The filtration will remove 99.97 percent of dirt and dust. It’s also fitted with an odor-eliminating Arm and Hammer Dust Bag.

The vacuum provides a decent reach with its 20-foot cord, 6-foot hose, and extended wand. You’ll also receive a crevice tool to get into the narrow spots.

What We Like

Only Weighs 8.9 Pounds

Mighty Mite is like a canister handheld vacuum. It weighs 8.9 pounds and has a handle attached to the top for easy carrying. You can quickly take it on the carpeted staircase and get all the dirt out.

We appreciate how compact it is. It has a length of 17 inches and a height of 11 inches. So, this vacuum won’t take up much space in storage.

1,500W Suction Power

We’re highly impressed with the suction power. The compact canister holds a 1,500-watt motor. It’s incredibly powerful – one of the strongest on our list today.

It’s practical as well. You can adjust the height between two settings: rug and bare floors. The suction head has a broad cleaning path, measuring 10 inches.

Practical Accessories

The pet attachment is convenient and easy to use. It consists of a small head with bristles, which you attach to the wand. Then as you move it across a carpet, the brush will loosen the hair before the suction picks it up.

Other accessories are a crevice attachment for the hard-to-get spots and a blower port. Thanks to its light weight, you can even use it to blow dirt from your garage or off your car.

HEPA Filter for Clean Air

The vacuum comes with a HEPA filter and odor-eliminating dust bag. This will capture 99.97 percent of dust around the home, preventing it from shooting out the exhaust.

To eliminate odors, Eureka utilizes a unique dust bag. It removes pet-dander and smells, leaving your indoor space refreshed.

What We Don't Like

Not Great on Carpets

The head has brushes that extend when you vacuum a carpet or rug. However, a few users said it became almost three times harder to push it across the surface. Some even noticed that it lost suction power as you pulled back.

The Hose Is Very Soft

The 6-foot hose is quite soft and bends far too easily. This is especially disappointing since the former Mighty Mite didn’t have this issue.

Product Specs

Type of vacuum Canister
Power 1,500 watts
Weight 8 pounds
Warranty One-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Suction Power
4.5 / 5
Filtration Efficiency
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Durability
3 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

Personal Perspective

I'm thrilled with my Eureka Mighty Mite vacuum as it's been a reliable and powerful companion for various cleaning tasks. Its compact size allows me to easily maneuver around hard floors, stairs, and upholstery, but it's not ideal for thorough carpet cleaning. Additionally, the long cord and hose make it super convenient to cover large areas without switching outlets.

Oreck XL2100RHS Commercial XL Upright Vacuum

Best Bagged Vacuum for Low-Carpet Homes

Extra-large yet ultra-lightweight, this Oreck AL commercial upright vacuum is excellent for homes needing more power. It weighs approximately eight pounds and is perfect for all types of flooring.

It has a 500-watt motor. While not the strongest, it can spin the dual helix brushes 6,500 times per minute. We appreciate the 12-inch broad head with side brushes. It allows you to get up close to baseboards, removing all the dust and dirt.

Furthermore, it’s quite user-friendly — you control everything from the comfortable handle. It can automatically adjust its height according to your specific task. And it’s excellent in low-carpeted areas.

What We Like

Lightweight and Powerful

This vacuum has great power in a relatively lightweight body. At only eight pounds, it’s super light compared to other upright models. This makes it easy to maneuver and carry with you from room to room.

It packs a punch when it comes to power. Although the motor is only 500 watts, it spins the brushes at an incredible speed. It’s capable of loosening up all the embedded dirt and dust.

12-Inch Cleaning Path

The 12-inch cleaning path is ample for most cleaning jobs. This vacuum can lay down almost flat, allowing you to get under furniture or other objects. It has a 36-foot long cord, giving an impressive radius to work with.

Dust loves to accumulate on baseboards and in corners up to the wall. Fortunately, Oreck fitted the vacuum with side brushes, effectively removing dirt and dust. There are also bumpers, protecting walls and surfaces.

User-Friendly Handle

Oreck received an Arthritis Foundation Ease-of-Use commendation thanks to the handle. User-friendly is what this machine is all about. It eliminates any need for squeezing or bending the wrists.

What We Don't Like

Lacks Additional Tools and Accessories

Not many tools are included. For example, it’s not great on stairs – a hose would be helpful for this. Other accessories such as crevice tools could’ve been handy for those tight spots.

Product Specs

Type of vacuum Upright
Power 500 watts
Head width 12 inches
Weight 8 pounds
Warranty One-year limited warranty

Our Ratings

Suction Power
3.5 / 5
Filtration Efficiency
3 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

When I needed a new vacuum, I decided to stick with Oreck due to its lightweight design and versatility. The new model, Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS, doesn't have a headlight like my old one, but its lower profile motor head lets me easily clean under cabinets. Although the original Oreck company faced financial issues, this model still offers the features that made me fall in love with the brand.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Type Power Weight Warranty
Miele Classic C1 All Rounder Canister 1,200 W 13 lbs 7-year limited
Miele Marin C3 Canister Canister 1,200 W 10.35 lbs 7-year limited
Oreck Professional Commercial Upright N/A 8 lbs 1-year limited
Bissell Zing For Multi-Surfaces Canister 9 amps 7.5 lbs 1-year limited
Hoover WindTunnel For Pet Hair Upright N/A 15 lbs 2-year limited
Eureka Mighty Mite Lightweight Canister 1,500 W 8 lbs 1-year limited
Oreck XL2100RHS For Low-Carpets Upright 500 W 8 lbs 1-year limited

Should You Choose a Bagged Vacuum?

Bagged vacuums are excellent in many ways. However, they aren’t for everyone. To help you out, we’ve made a list of pros and cons:

Pros

  • Large capacity: Bagged vacuums, in general, have room for plenty of dirt. Some can carry a 1-gallon bag, while others can hold two gallons.
  • Less mess: While some come with reusable bags, disposable is more common. So when it’s time to replace a bag, all you do is remove it and put it in the trash. Nowadays, there are also compostable, eco-friendly vacuum bag options.
  • Easier on allergies: Many vacuums use enclosed bags fitted with a HEPA filter, leaving the air cleaner. Additionally, if you utilize disposable bags, there’s no canister to empty, meaning less dust becomes airborne again.
  • Budget-friendly: Bagged vacuums come at reasonable prices ranging from around $50 to $500. Still, high-end brands such as Miele come with a higher price tag. However, these brands often have more features and better motors.

Cons

  • Disposable bags: As we’ve mentioned, disposable bags cause less mess. But at the same time, they can be inconvenient and perhaps pricey. You must purchase new ones when you run out. It can also sometimes be challenging to find compatible bags for specialized vacuums.

Considerations Before Buying a Bagged Vacuum

The vacuum you choose must suit your lifestyle. To make the best purchase, here are some points are worth considering:

Length of Power Cord

Cord length determines your maneuverability while using the machine. Unplugging and replugging several times can be frustrating. So, even if your house or apartment is small, it’s a point worth considering.

We recommend finding a cord that’s at least 20 feet long. This length is ample for most homes without becoming cumbersome.

Retraction System

Many bagged vacuums include a retractable cord — where you hold a button-down, and it rewinds. However, not all machines have this useful feature, so double check before buying.

Bag Capacity

It’s recommended to empty the dust bag once it’s approximately 50 to 70 percent full. Based on average usage, this is typically a once-a-month occurrence. So, if you frequently vacuum, having a large capacity is a huge plus.

However, if you rarely take your vacuum for a stroll, having a large bag isn’t ideal. If left for too long, dust bags tend to have an odor, especially when vacuuming up after a pet. In such cases, don’t wait until it’s almost full to change it.

Floor Type

Some vacuums do well on hard floors but poorly on thick carpets, and vice versa. If you have both, look for a vacuum with an adjustable height. This enables it to get close to the floor and glide through the carpet without getting stuck.

Have Pets?

Having pets generally means lots of hair stuck on the carpets and upholstery. Although vacuums remove most pet hair, not all are created equal.

So we recommend looking for a vacuum with attachments specialized for pets and long hair. These generally include crevice and upholstery tools.

Weight

If you suffer from back pain, it’s crucial to consider how much the vacuum weighs. We often carry them from one room to another, or up and downstairs. Dragging around a heavy machine can have adverse effects on your body over time (2).

Our picks range from 7.5 to 15 pounds. We suggest sticking to the lighter end of the spectrum if you’re sensitive to heavy lifting.

Asthma and Allergies

If you have asthma or allergies, it’s vital to have a vacuum that traps allergens effectively. So, look for a vacuum with an ample filter such as HEPA or microfilters. We’ll expand on this further below.

Noise

Rarely, if ever, will a vacuum cleaner be so loud you’ll need hearing protection. Most modern vacuums are manufactured to reduce noise as much as possible. Still, they aren’t whisper-quiet – user feedback can be a good source of information regarding this.

Useful Bagged Vacuum Features

Features should make the job easier, and bagged vacuums have lots to choose from. That said, not all are necessary. Here are a few to mull over:

Add-On Tools

Many vacuums include three basic add-on tools — enough for most jobs. These include:

  • Crevice tool: A narrow tool that attaches to the vacuum instead of the wider head.
  • Upholstery brush: A specialized brush with a flat, broad head. It concentrates the suction power and works excellently on mattresses, sofas, and chairs.
  • Dusting brush: Fitted with long, delicate bristles, a dusting brush is perfect for fragile areas. This can include framed art, bookcases, windowsills, lampshades, and blinds.

Canister vacuums often offer a little extra:

  • Motorized brush: Also dubbed “power nozzle,” this tool is excellent for cleaning carpets. It consists of a small rotating brush that agitates and lifts debris and residue.
  • Hard floor brush: A long but narrow tool with short, stiff bristles, great for removing dirt and fine dust from tiles and hardwood floors.

Edge Cleaners

If you have wall-to-wall carpets, we’d recommend an edge cleaner. It utilizes the entire head to suction up debris, cleaning right up against the wall.
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Floor Settings

Generally, vacuums have two settings: carpet and floor. These control the brush agitator, or roller brush, sitting on the underside of the head. You engage it whenever you vacuum a rug and disengage once you reach the bare ground.

Some machines, however, offer unique modes for diverse carpet thickness. This is useful if you have several carpets of varying piles in your home.

Suction Control

This allows you to adjust the suction for your specific task. If you plan to use a dusting brush, having a lower sucking power enables you to vacuum around knick-knacks.

Self-Propelled

A self-propelled vacuum assists you with pulling or pushing, thereby requiring little to no effort by you. They generally utilize a transmission and drive method to glide effortlessly according to your demands. However, this feature does add a significant amount of weight to the machine.

Headlights

As the name suggests, these light up the area in front of the vacuum. It’s useful when you clean underneath pieces of furniture or other hidden places. Many upright vacuums nowadays have a headlight.

Filter

Not all vacuums remove dirt and particles effectively — sometimes, you’re simply rearranging the dust. But if you have allergies or suffer from asthma, a good filter is imperative.

Fortunately, most vacuums today filter fine particles otherwise passed straight through the exhaust back into the room. However, if your lungs are sensitive, micron or HEPA filters are better (3).

Micron filters usually come with dust bags or as a separate one altogether. Although they’re effective, a HEPA filter provides the ultimate protection. HEPA, short for “high-efficiency particulate air,” reduces the number of particles emitted by trapping residue in layers.


FAQs

Bagged or Bagless — Which Is Better?

This is a universal question, and truthfully, it comes down to you and your lifestyle. The main difference is how you dispose of the dirt.

Many argue that bagged vacuums are better for people who are sensitive to dust particles. The reason is that you dispose of the dust bags straight into the trash. In other words, no direct contact is required.

Bagless vacuums, in comparison, gather dirt inside a removable canister. You take out the can and empty it into the trash when it’s full.

However, this can cause dust and dirt to become airborne again, potentially reaching your face. And this is not ideal if you suffer from asthma or allergies.

When Should You Change the Dust Bag?

Changing the dust bag is pretty straightforward. Knowing when it’s time is a little more challenging. Here are some telltale signs:

  • An indicator light is on: This is a visible sign that it’s time to change the bag. However, not all vacuums have one.
  • It’s been more than a month: If you’ve used the vacuum regularly for more than a month, it’s probably time to change the bag.
  • Suction power decreases: The suction power decreases as the dust bag fills up. Check the bag if you notice a significant difference or crumbs and dust still on the carpet. Suction power should improve once you replace the bag.
  • Dusty materials: After vacuuming dirty materials such as plaster, replace the bag. These materials can be harmful to the machine.
  • Bad odors: If you notice foul, musty odors from the machine when using it, replace the bag.

Bad Odors

Things such as pet hair can create bad smells even though the bag isn’t full. If that’s the case, add some cinnamon or other spices to the container. Then, as you turn on the machine, it will emanate the scent.

Are Cheap Vacuums Worth Buying?

This highly depends on the manufacturer. Many offer vacuums at different price points. For these, the only difference between the pricey and budget-friendly choices is additional features. For example, headlights or another filter.

Some budget-friendly vacuums easily outperform their pricier rivals. However, we highly recommend looking at user reviews. Sometimes, a lower price means decreased durability, less power, or a shorter warranty.

Do Bagged Vacuums Have Filters?

Bagged vacuum cleaners do have filters, especially the more expensive models. This Miele Compact C1 Pure Suction has three filters: a filter bag, a motor filter, and an exhaust filter.

Why are Commercial Vacuums Bagged?

Commercial vacuums are bagged because it makes it easier to dispose of the waste material. It also gives the vacuum more substantial storage capacity, meaning it needs emptying less frequently.

Are Bagged Vacuums Bad for the Environment?

Bagged vacuum cleaners are bad for the environment compared to bagless models. Over your vacuum’s lifetime, hundreds of bags find their way into the landfill. With bagless models, that figure is zero!

Why Do Bagless Vacuum Cleaners Lose Suction?

Bagless vacuum cleaners lose suction when the filters get blocked. The blockage restricts airflow. Another reason could be a blockage in the hose or a full dust canister.


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About the Author

Amy Anthony

Amy Anthony is a cleaning expert, author, and contributing writer for Oh So Spotless, a leading online resource for all things related to cleaning, organizing, and maintaining a spotless home. With over 15 years of experience in the cleaning industry, Amy has gained extensive knowledge and expertise that have made her a trusted authority on best practices, efficient techniques, and innovative cleaning solutions.