You may have heard of Henry the Hoover, but are there other canister vacuums available? Absolutely!
Canister vacuums are easy to use, versatile, and have a lightweight cleaning attachment. We’ve put together a list of the seven best canister vacuums currently available.
Keep reading to find the right one for your home. In the end, you’ll be able to choose a canister vacuum that works a charm and saves you a lot of trouble during your cleaning routine.
- Speed and suction control
- Range of safety features
- Swiveling wheels for easy manevuerability
- Six speed settings
- Thermal protection
- Foot switch for easy access
- Motorized brush
- Reusable filter
- Ergonomic design
- Versatile uses
- Telescopic wand
- Easily maneuverable
- Tri-step filtration
- Weighs 7.5 pounds
- Extendable hose for hard-to-reach places
- Compact design
- Quick dust release
- Suction control
- Portable design
- Functions as blower
- Good for gadgets
Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we provide you with an in-depth analysis and assessment of the best canister vacuums on the market. Our hands-on experience and research allow us to compare products using specific criteria and data to rank their performance. We evaluate products from a user’s perspective, sharing quantitative measurements and identifying key decision-making factors. Our professional team reviews the design choices, features, and effectiveness of each vacuum, ensuring that you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision. We also provide first-hand evidence that sets each product apart from its competitors, so you can trust our recommendations. Our findings are based on thorough testing, benchmarking, and tracking of various canister vacuum models, ensuring that our reviews meet the highest standards.
The Best Canister Vacuums of 2024
These are seven of the best canister vacuums rated by their capacity, suction power, features, and maneuverability.
Miele Classic C1 Pure Suction Canister Vacuum
Best All-Round Canister Vacuum
Right off the bat, this canister vacuum cleaner is built to be efficient. It’s easy to use, thanks to the simple but impressive features.
For one, you can adjust the suction easily with a well-designed dial. You also get three attachments for hard floors, rugs, and difficult-to-reach spots. This product includes an upholstery brush, a crevice tool, and a dusting brush. This design means it’s a fantastic all-round canister vacuum for most homes.
This canister vacuum uses the “AirClean” filter system. How does that work? The vacuum motor and exhaust work hand-in-hand to contain dust and dirt as air flows through the machine.
Additionally, it has a locking dust bag which aids the dust-trapping ability. It’s an excellent feature that will show a noticeable difference in how you clean.
What We Like
You Have Cleaning Control
The ability to control the suction of this vacuum makes it a winner. The dial is easy to work with and makes a big difference in your cleaning efficiency. Add on the three handy attachments, and you can clean every area of your home. These attachments are suitable for carpets, hardwood floors, corners, cushions, and even stairs.
Safety Features
A vacuum cleaner that protects itself from damage? Yes, please! It’s got protective features that guard it against electrical damage and overheating. Even though its parts won’t need replacing as often, you still get a seven-year warranty on the body and motor. These features expand this vacuum’s lifespan, which is excellent for your wallet.
Swiveling Wheels
It’s such a simple feature that so many brands overlook. Miele vacuum has done it right, and it makes your cleaning so much easier.
What We Don't Like
Not for Thick Carpets
As much as we love this one, we have to say that it’s not intended for thick carpets. Regardless of its excellent power, it’s better suited for more low-pile carpets.
If you need an industrial-strength machine, you might want to look further than this one.
Product Specs
| Suction Power | High (1200 watts) |
| Weight | 16.1 pounds |
| Dimensions | 18.2 inches by 8.7 inches by 11 inches |
| Disposal | Bag |
| Warranty | 7 years for the body and motor |
User Experience
Miele Complete C3 Marin Canister
Best for a Full Cleaning Experience
If you have the budget for a super-powered vacuum, we highly recommend this Miele model, which goes above and beyond in cleaning.
Miele built this canister vacuum with both convenience and excellence in mind. You can use it on most surfaces, and it gives you six speeds to choose from. Also, you can effortlessly adjust the speed using the footswitch for seamless cleaning.
As above, it makes use of the “AirClean” filtration system, capable of removing up to 99 percent of harmful pollutants from the air in your home.
Another key feature is the telescopic wand that gives you a total radius of 36 feet. This is super handy for reaching high corners and hard-to-reach places.
What We Like
Six Speed Settings
The control you have over this vacuum is excellent. If you have several different surfaces to attend to, this vacuum can handle it all.
With this vacuum, you don’t have to worry about damaging your home or missing spots — it’s tailored to be versatile.
Thermal Protection
It might be missing the electrical safety feature, but the Miele Complete C3 still saves itself from overheating. This preserves the machine’s integrity and saves you money in the long run.
Included Foot Switch for Easy Control
Controlling this vacuum is so much easier with the addition of a footswitch. This eliminates a lot of effort and strain.
The Extras Are Great
Complimenting the varying speeds, the extras that are thrown in preserve your home too. You won’t need to buy specialized tools for each task, which could save you a lot of money.
This vacuum comes with four integrated accessories. This includes a parquet twister for smooth surfaces, a crevice nozzle, a dusting brush, and an upholstery tool.
What We Don't Like
It May Clog Easily
One bothersome thing about this machine is how easily it clogs. Though it’s designed for convenience, it clogs faster (and easier) than other vacuums. It’s not the end of the world, but be prepared to spend some time on maintenance.
Product Specs
| Suction Power | High (1200 watts) |
| Weight | 19.4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 19.5 inches by 11.2 inches by 8.9 inches |
| Disposal | Bagless |
| Warranty | 7-year motor and casing, 1-year parts and labor |
Personal Perspective
Ovente ST2620B Bagless Canister Cyclonic Vacuum
Best Canister Vacuum for Pet Owners
Ovente has brought us a compact product that is excellent for preventing strain and sucking up pet hair. Although some vacuums have great power, they struggle a bit when fur is thrown in. But not this one!
We recommend this vacuum to those who suffer from backache and pains when they clean since this one is slightly more ergonomic than others.
The handy foot pedal winds up the cable for you to save you bending over. You can also adjust the height of the floor brush using a foot pedal. Use the slider to adjust the suction when you change surfaces.
This little canister vacuum has a surprising amount of power. Another noteworthy feature is that its HEPA filter is reusable and washable too.
What We Like
It Combats Stubborn Dirt
The multi-angle tool and high power make this machine a good match for hardy dust and dirt. If you want to deep clean your home with less effort, this is the vacuum for you.
Three Included Accessories
This vacuum is heaven-sent for pet owners. The other accessories are wonderful too. We just think this one deserves a special mention. It comes with a motorized brush which is excellent for picking up pet hair, a brush-crevice tool, and a multi-angle brush. These work for stubborn dirt and getting into hard-to-reach places.
Reusable HEPA Filter
How great is it that you can easily wash and reuse the filter in this machine? It saves you money and saves the environment as well. The HEPA filter also traps dust and allergens, making your home a cleaner and safer place.
Ergonomic Features for Easier Use
The footswitches make a big difference in how much strain your arms and back have to endure. We also love that one of those switches retracts the cable, which means there is even less effort on your part.
What We Don't Like
Maneuvering It Is Tricky
This is not the easiest vacuum to work with. You’ll have to keep an eye on it and might have to reset its position every so often. Yes, it’s compact, but it may feel somewhat awkward to haul around.
Product Specs
| Suction Power | High (1400 watts) |
| Weight | 13.2 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.7 inches by 11.4 inches by 13.4 inches |
| Disposal | Bagless |
| Warranty | 1 year |
Community Feedback
Bissel 2154A Zing Bagged Canister Vacuum
Best Canister Vacuum for All Surfaces
One problem that canister vacuums tend to have is that they’re not all suited for high-pile carpets, but the Bissel Zing does well on all floor types.
It has a flexible hose that swivels in place to add to the versatility. This handy feature means your hose will last longer, and you’ll have better reach.
The two attachments included are a crevice-dusting brush tool and an upholstery tool. What we like most about this vacuum is that it doesn’t lose power when you change surfaces. It’s great for hard floors, carpets, cushions, curtains — you name it.
Its dial coincides with that. Changing the suction is easy and makes for more effective cleaning.
What We Like
It’s Versatile for All Floor Types
You can use this vacuum easily on plush carpets, which is something not all canister vacuums can boast. The added attachments complement this ability, making it a true all-rounder vacuum.
Telescopic Wand for Easy Reach
Its adjustable wand makes your load even lighter. You can set it to the perfect height for you, to lessen strain. The retractable cable also helps with less exertion on your part.
It’s Easily Maneuverable
Its small stature makes it portable, so moving it around won’t be a chore. This is great if you live in a multi-story home — hauling your machine up and down stairs could be tiring.
What We Don't Like
The Wand and Hose Tend to Detach
One complaint that we’ve seen customers describe is that this little vacuum is too powerful for itself. Since the wand and hose don’t snap into each other, the wand may get caught in carpets and pull apart from the hose.
Don’t let this flaw upset you too much. It’s a silly inconvenience in an otherwise excellent cleaner.
Product Specs
| Suction Power | 9 amps |
| Weight | 7.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 15.6 inches by 11 inches by 9 inches |
| Disposal | Bag |
| Warranty | Limited 1 year |
First-Hand Impression
Bissel Zing Bagless Canister Vacuum
Best for Canister Vacuum Everyday Cleaning
This Bissell product functions well as a starter vacuum or one that you’ll use in limited spaces. Let’s not forget that it’s an extremely affordable vacuum compared to others on this list.
We like this vacuum because its strength lies not in deep cleaning but everyday tidying. If you’re sensitive to dust and have to clean every day, this little machine could be what you’re looking for.
It’s compact and won’t make your electric bill skyrocket. It’s almost seamless in surface cleaning, and since it’s bagless, you won’t dispose of filters.
You also get the essential tools for extra utility: a crevice tool, a dusting brush, and a handy multi-surface cleaning accessory.
What We Like
Tri-Step Filtration
This particular vacuum works wonders if you have dust allergies. You’ll feel the difference in the quality of the air. You can breathe easily after using it. The filtration system traps dirt, leaving you with cleaner air than before.
Only Weighs 7.5 Pounds
Since we’re recommending this for everyday use, you must consider its weight. This little vacuum cleaner only weighs 7.5 pounds.
It’s a good choice if you tidy every day, if you’re prone to muscle strain or backache, or live in a multi-story home. We love that it’s so portable.
Extendable 4.8 Feet Hose
This comes in handy when you’re trying to get rid of dust that you can’t quite reach. The hose extends an extra 4.8 feet, enough to get into ceiling corners or underneath furniture.
What We Don't Like
It’s Not for Heavy-Duty Cleaning
We like this vacuum, but it’s better suited for light household work. It won’t do a good job of deep cleaning, and you’ll be disappointed by it if you push past its limitations.
The Wand Comes Loose
It’s the same problem as the bagged version above. The wand and hose do not lock in, and there is a possibility that they could come loose during vacuuming.
Product Specs
| Suction Power | 9 amps |
| Weight | 7.5 pounds |
| Dimensions | 14 inches by 11 inches by 12 inches |
| Disposal | Bagless |
| Warranty | Limited 1 year |
User Experience
Eureka WhirlWind Vacuum Canister Vacuum
Best for Maneuverability
The Eureka WhirlWind has innovated a way of handling vacuums that will change your life.
It all comes down to its design. Where other canister vacuums follow the standard chunky shape, the Eureka vacuum has a lightweight design. It saves space and moves effortlessly. What’s not to love?
The Eureka uses dual cyclone technology to capture maximum dust and debris without ever losing suction. Another thing to love about this canister vacuum is that it is equipped with automatic cord rewind that makes it conveniently easy to automatically retract the cord back into the vacuum by simply stepping the pedal.
It also has a large bin container that captures 2.5 liters of dust and debris.
What We Like
It’s Compact
The design looks great and saves space. If you have limited storage, you’ll definitely want to consider this.
Since it’s so much easier to move around, it saves you effort too. Cleaning with this vacuum is a breeze not to mention that it only weighs eight pounds.
Quick Dust Release
We think that every vacuum should incorporate this technology. The great addition lets you empty the wastes with a single click button. This definitely falls one of the easy to use vacuum in the market.
Suction Control
If you’re a lazy cleaner or can’t be bothered to switch accessories in between, this will save you energy. Being able to adjust the suction right at your fingertips and choosing multifarious settings such used for carpet, upholstery, and hard floors.
What We Don't Like
HEPA Filter
This vacuum would have been placed much higher on our list if not for the absence of HEPA filter. Of course this would significantly help those with allergy. Others were resourceful enough to find a HEPA filter and use it to replace the built-in filter.
Product Specs
| Suction Power | Not specified |
| Weight | 8 pounds |
| Dimensions | 14.17 inches by 12.2 inches by 9.65 inches |
| Disposal | Bagless |
| Warranty | Not specified |
Personal Perspective
Oreck Super-Deluxe Canister Vacuum Cleaner
Best for Fine Cleaning
We’ve covered vacuums that are perfect for standard homes. So lastly, we’ll show you one for fine cleaning.
Keep in mind that this vacuum is for light-duty cleaning, but it has a few tricks up its canister.
It only weighs 4 pounds, so you’ll be hard-pressed to find something lighter. It’s portable, easy to move, and won’t cause you pain or hassle.
This makes it a good vacuum for almost anywhere: your home, car, boat, commercial property, and gadgets.
Its bag is hypoallergenic, making it a top choice for those with allergies or sensitivities. It’s easy to clean too.
We’ve chosen to place this one last because it’s sacrificed durability for portability. There are more complaints about breakages and failures than we hoped to see.
What We Like
It’s Portable
Goodbye strain and effort. On top of the fact that it’s as light as it is, we have to mention that it is easy to operate too. Weighing four pounds, you can easily pack this with you and take it anywhere.
Functions as a Blower
You may think you don’t need a blower, but you’ll change your mind when you see how handy it is. Sure, not everyone has a use for this feature, but if you do, why not kill two birds with one stone? Use the blower function with the flick of a switch.
It’s Good for Gadgets
The mini attachments are charming. You can use them to clean cramped spaces or even clean your computer or other fragile electronics. Dust accumulates everywhere, so it’s nice to find a tool that can tackle it!
What We Don't Like
Suction Power Might Fail
If only this vacuum were a little bit stronger, we’d give it much more praise. Its fragility could cost you, so you’ll have to use it as intended. If you’re using it for light cleaning, no problem, but don’t expect it to restore your home.
Product Specs
| Suction Power | Not specified |
| Weight | 4 pounds |
| Dimensions | 19.5 inches by 11 inches by 9.5 inches |
| Disposal | Hypoallergenic bag |
| Warranty | Three years |
Community Feedback
| Product | Award | Power | Weight | Dimensions | Disposal |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miele Classic C1 | Our All-Round Favorite | 1200 W | 16.1 lbs | 18.2″ x 8.7″ x 11″ | Bag |
| Miele Complete C3 | Full Cleaning Experience | 1200 W | 19.4 lbs | 19.5″ x 11.2″ x 8.9″ | Bagless |
| Ovente ST2620B | Best For Pet Owners | 1400 W | 13.2 lbs | 15.7″ x 11.4″ x 13.4″ | Reusable filter |
| Bissel Canister | Best For All Surfaces | N/A | 7.5 lbs | 15.6″ x 11″ x 9″ | Bag |
| Bissel Bagless | Best For Everyday Cleaning | 1140 W | 7.5 lbs | 14″ x 11″ x 12″ | Bagless |
| Eureka WhirlWind | Best For Maneuverability | N/A | 8 lbs | 14.17″ x 12.2″ x 9.65″ | Bagless |
| Oreck Compact | Best For Fine Cleaning | N/A | 4 lbs | 19.5″ x 11″ x 9.5″ | Hypoallergenic bag |
Why Should You Buy a Canister Vacuum?
These vacuums have a portable canister element on wheels that contains the motor, filter, and bags. The vacuuming element is a lightweight hose and nozzle.
Compared to upright vacuums, this comes with two separate units. You don’t have to push the entire vacuum around as you clean. Simply park the canister and maneuver the hose.
Canister vacuums are designed for hard surfaces and carpeted areas, rugs, cars, and even your stairs.
These versatile vacuums are a wise purchase.
Compared to other vacuums, you might find them easier to use. For example, deep-cleaner vacuums might have tremendous cleaning power, but they require water and specialize in stain removal and carpet treatment.
Handheld vacuums are nifty, but useless when cleaning large areas.
However, you might want to avoid a canister vacuum if you have overly fluffy carpets or need industrial-grade cleaning machines.
They’re Powerful
Canister vacuums have larger motors which means more power. They also have better suction to provide a deeper clean. Air flows better through canister vacuums. Unsurprisingly, your home is fresher for it.
They’re Easy to Use
Since the motors and nozzles are separated by a hose, cleaning is more manageable. With upright vacuums, you need to force them into awkward angles. On the other hand, Canister vacuums can easily reach corners, nooks, and crannies.
They often come with a range of nozzles, made for varying circumstances. Depending on your attachments, you can switch from cleaning tiles to sucking up stubborn pet hair with little effort.
Another factor is the light weight and wheeled design. Since you’re only carrying the hose while you clean, you reduce strain on your arms and back. They’re also easy to maneuver and very versatile.
They’re Quieter
The canisters contain and minimize sound, making them quieter than other types of vacuums.
If you have pets or kids that are scared of loud vacuums, this might be a good choice for your home.
Drawbacks to Canister Vacuums
There are certainly a few downsides you should consider before buying a canister vacuum.
- They require assembly: Before each use, you might have to take time to assemble the vacuum. Upon storage, you may have to dismantle the vacuum and remove certain attachments.
- Storage can be tricky: This only applies if you’re keeping it set up. The hose might make it awkward to stow. Upright vacuums can fit almost anywhere with little effort, but canisters have the potential to get in your way.
- They might get in their own way: Canister vacuums are easy to move, but they’re built to roll behind you. Sometimes they will bump into furniture or roll over their own cables.
Regardless, we think that the pros of a canister vacuum outweigh its cons.
In fact, many people prefer canister vacuums because there is so much variation in their use. They work exceptionally well for specific cleaning jobs, like vacuuming a mattress or your car. Other types of vacuums aren’t suited for these tasks.
What to Look For
You’re up to speed on what makes and breaks canister vacuums, but how do you know which one to pick? Here’s what you should consider when shopping.
Bag or Bagless?
Bags are convenient and generally healthier, but they have environmental consequences. Bagless vacuums might be greener, but they’re inconvenient.
The problem with bagless vacuums is that you release dust and dirt back into the air when you empty them. You might even set a few mites free. This is problematic for people with allergies or sensitivities (1).
Both have pros and cons, so it’s down to personal preference.
Capacity
Whether or not you choose a bag, consider the capacity of your vacuum. The larger it is, the less often you’ll have to empty the dust bag.
If it has disposable bags, you’ll get rid of less of them, making them somewhat greener. If it’s bagless, you won’t have to empty it manually as often. But remember, there will be more dirt to chuck out when you do.
Included Attachments
Handy attachments can make all the difference to your cleaning routine.
Some attachments are better for carpets, while others are made for tile floors. Some are heavy-duty, and others are gentle for sensitive surfaces.
It all depends on what areas of your home you’ll often be cleaning. These are the attachments that we enjoy the most:
- Upholstery tool: You can use this to clean all sorts of fabrics, from your mattress to cushions to the carpets on your stairs. They’re great for removing pet hairs too.
- Crevice cleaner: Effectively clean behind and under furniture and appliances or in awkward spots.
- Dusting brush: These are designed to remove stubborn dirt without causing abrasions on your surfaces.
- Multi-angle brush: We like these because they’re made for small, out-of-reach places, like your car’s interior.
There are many more accessories to choose from, from floor sweepers to fan blade dusters. But these are considered extras rather than must-haves.
Dimensions
This is a simple one, and you might have already considered it: how big a vacuum do you need?
Some canister vacuums are a bit chunky and will take up room in storage. The bigger it is, the greater the chance of it getting in your way. If you have a humbler home, an overpowered, massive machine will be more of a hindrance than anything else.
The length of the hose matters if you have a bigger place or need to reach further. They can only stretch so far.
Then there’s weight. It’s not to say that lightweight vacuum cleaners trump heavier ones, but they’ll demand less energy from you.
Of the canister vacuums we have chosen to show you, the lightest one is 4 pounds, and the heaviest is just over 13 pounds. This should give you a good idea of how weights can vary.
Additional Specs
You don’t want a feeble little thing that sucks in every way except how it’s supposed to. The specifications of your vacuum should come into play to prevent that.
One important spec is the filtration system. This allows the vacuum to collect dust but also trap it, leaving your home (and the air) fresher, healthier and cleaner.
Keep in mind that you don’t need an entire song and dance from your vacuum. All you need is a vacuum with good suction, the required attachments, and perhaps different levels of power.
FAQs
Which Vacuum is Best: Canister or Upright?
In our opinion, the best vacuum is a canister variety. They are maneuverable, have a flexible hose for tight spaces, and have more power than uprights. Canister vacuums are also better for cleaning stairs because uprights can be awkward to carry.
Also, a canister vacuum cleaner is more effective if you have pets or children because it has superior suction power.
Can You Use a Canister Vacuum on Carpet?
You can use a canister vacuum on a carpet. Thanks to increased suction, canister vacuums are more effective at lifting dust and debris from carpet fibers, reaching ground in dirt.
Does Shark Make a Canister Vacuum Cleaner?
Shark does make a canister vacuum cleaner called the Shark CZ351 Bagless Vacuum. It is self-cleaning, has a flexible hose, and traps 99.9 percent of the dirt in a sealed canister.
How Do You Store a Canister Vacuum?
You store a canister vacuum by disconnecting the hose, placing the canister on its end, and wrapping the hose around the vacuum body. Stand the wand against the wall next to the canister.
