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7 Best Commercial Vacuums of 2024

Updated
Need more cleaning power for bigger spaces? Try one of these commercial vacuums.

Are you looking for something a little more powerful than the “as seen on TV” vacuums? Is your home (or business) large and in need of a vacuum with stronger specs and higher capabilities?

Commercial vacuums could be the solution you’re looking for. These models are intended for industrial or specialized environments. So they’re built to cover more ground and last longer.

But before we reveal our picks for the best commercial vacuum cleaners, we want to tell you why they’re worth considering. They have many advantages over their residential counterparts and could improve your cleaning experiences.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Oreck Commercial U2000RB1
Best All Round
Oreck Commercial U2000RB1
  • Top-filling bag reduces clogs
  • Auto-adjusting head
  • High powered motor
Product Image of the Vacmaster Industrial Vacuum
Best for Smaller Spaces
Vacmaster Industrial Vacuum
  • Multiple uses including wet/dry
  • Quiet at 72 decibels
  • Handy add-ons
Product Image of the ProTeam Backpack Vacuum
Most Versatile
ProTeam Backpack Vacuum
  • Residential kit for home use
  • Extra 50 foot reach
  • Allergy friendly
Product Image of the Eureka NEU182A
Best for Deep Cleaning
Eureka NEU182A
  • Extra-large dust cup
  • Handy accessories
  • Multi-floor machine
Product Image of the Hoover C2401
Best for Your Back
Hoover C2401
  • Comfortable to use
  • Great for pets
  • Cool accessories
Product Image of the Oreck XL2100RHS
Most Compact
Oreck XL2100RHS
  • Less fuss and user-friendly
  • Side brushes for cleaning edges
  • Auto-adjust brush
Product Image of the Hoover CH30000 PortaPower
Best for Precision
Hoover CH30000 PortaPower
  • Convertible as blower
  • For various surfaces
  • Compact design for easy storage

Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we understand the importance of trustworthy information when it comes to choosing the best commercial vacuums. Our team of professionals conducts thorough research, hands-on testing, and assessment of various models to provide you with accurate and reliable data. We evaluate products from a user’s perspective, focusing on key decision-making factors such as suction power, filtration, durability, and ease of use. Through our in-depth analysis and comparison of top-performing models, we identify standout features and design choices that set them apart from competitors. By sharing first-hand experiences and quantitative measurements, we rank and review the best commercial vacuums to help you make an informed decision. Trust our expertise and let us guide you in finding the perfect vacuum for your needs.



The Best Commercial Vacuums of 2024

Here are the seven best commercial vacuums that you should consider.

Oreck Commercial U2000RB1 Upright Vacuum

Best All Round Commercial Vacuum

Happy customers agree that this is a durable machine. It’s a high-powered, light machine that’s easy to use, even for home use.

This multi-floor vacuum automatically adjusts to your floors. We like that it’s suitable for hardwood floors, laminate floors, tile floors, and carpets. It fits well under furniture too.

It’s got high-speed double-helix brushes and a 12-inch cleaning path. Protective features prevent clogs, jams, and slippage. The 40-foot power cord gives you great range and includes a clamp for easier management.

This machine has a top-fill build to prevent loss of suction as you vacuum. It has a trigger grip for easy control. Finally, its Helping Hand carry handle makes it more maneuverable.

What We Like

Top-Filling Build Prevents Suction Loss

What a genius and effective engineering decision. This machine is built to conserve suction power by filling the bag from the top so that collected dust won’t interfere with dirt coming in. Combined with the safety features, this machine is unlikely to clog.

Auto-Adjusting Head for Multi-Surface Use

The head adjusts to the type of floor you’re cleaning without needing to switch settings or change the brush. This protects your hard floors and cleans carpets better. It also has soft wheels, built especially to preserve hard floors.

High Powered Motor

A high-speed motor, top-fill design, and anti-clog feature make this vacuum a strong machine. You’ll get consistent, powerful suction that will tackle even tough debris.

What We Don't Like

Assembly Required Upon Arrival

An unusual feature is that you have to put this machine together on your own. Don’t worry; there isn’t any complicated science involved. It’s just something worth considering if you’re unwilling to spend extra time preparing this machine.

No Cleaning Accessories

Considering how strong this machine is, perhaps you won’t need any extras. Still, vacuums that come with attachments and handy accessories are favored. Sadly, you don’t get much more than the basics with this model.

Product Specs

Power 480 watts
Dimensions 35 inches by 13 inches by 5.5 inches
Weight 8 pounds
Special Features Auto-adjusting brush, anti-clog safety feature, top-fill design, Helping Hand handle
Accessories Cable Clamp

Our Ratings

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

User Experience

I've been using this lightweight vacuum and it's been perfect for my tri-level home. The long cord allows me to reach all rooms without unplugging, and as a 70-year-old woman, I appreciate the back handle for easy carrying. The vacuum is quite loud, but I adjusted quickly and it does an amazing job picking up pet hair from both carpets and hard floors. Just make sure to use the correct vacuum bags (PK800025DW) for optimal performance!

Vacmaster Industrial Vacuum

Best Commercial Vacuum for Smaller Spaces

This vacuum may not have as wide a range as other commercial models, but it’s still as powerful. It’s a multi-purpose machine with a four-gallon tank. It also has an 18-foot cable with automatic rewind.

Whether you’re looking for commercial power at your home or you have a small commercial property, this might be the vacuum for you.

You can use this machine on all surfaces, and users mention that it manages outdoors as well. Its best feature, though, is its wet/dry capacity.

It comes with a crevice tool, three extension wands, and a dust brush. You also get a floor nozzle and a 2-in-1 utility tool. Onboard storage makes stowing these components easy. There’s also a HEPA filter, so it’s good for those with allergies.

What We Like

Multiple Uses Including Outdoor

We like that you can use this vacuum for almost everything. It’s a multi-floor machine with wet/dry capabilities that work well outdoors. Versatility like this isn’t standard in traditional vacuum cleaners.

It’s Quiet at 72 Decibels

Believe it or not, this model only reaches 72 decibels. So it’s a good option for parents and pet owners. It’s designed to make less noise while retaining its suction power.

Handy Add-Ons for Deep Cleaning

Commercial vacuums typically come with only the basics, but this one breaks the mold. It includes an excellent selection of accessories that each makes cleaning a breeze.

It comes with three extension wands, which is a great courtesy. The dust brush, floor nozzle, and utility tool widen this model’s functionality.

What We Don't Like

It’s Better for Residential Use

Customers have noted that this vacuum isn’t as powerful as its commercial competitors. We think that it’s a strong contender. However, it shines better in homes than it will in industrial environments.

It Needs Attention

Users also say that this machine’s filters fill surprisingly quickly. They complain that the extra effort needed to manage them can be tedious.

Product Specs

Power 960 watts
Dimensions 17.1 inches by 13.2 inches by 17.3 inches
Weight 15 pounds
Special Features Wet/dry capabilities, insulated motor, onboard storage, automatic cord rewind
Accessories Crevice tool, 3 extension wands, dust brush, 2-in-1 utility nozzle

Our Ratings

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

Personal Perspective

After using the Vacmaster VF408 vacuum for a while, I found it to have excellent suction and a user-friendly design. The vacuum is lightweight and maneuverable, which made cleaning various areas in my home much easier. However, the retractable cord stopped working and some attachments were flimsy, but overall, this vacuum performed well for its price range.

ProTeam Super CoachVac Backpack Vacuum

Most Versatile Commercial Vacuum

This backpack model is built to prevent fatigue and strain. It uses four-level filtration for more effective suction, and a great bonus is that it includes a certified HEPA filter.

The ProTeam Backpack vacuum works for various surfaces. It also comes with a variety of cool accessories for more effective cleaning. It’s great for hard floors, low pile carpets, and upholstery.

In terms of its suction, ProTeam claims that it’s three times as strong as standard vacuums. It’s designed for versatility and is an excellent choice for those with larger homes or spaces.

Moving it up or downstairs is effortless with a 50-foot cord and the backpack style.

What We Like

7-Piece Residential Kit Included

Though this machine is commercial, it includes a 7-piece residential kit to help around your home. The kit is a set of handy attachments that improve cleaning upholstery, crevices, and out-of-reach spots.

Extra Reach Thanks to Long Cable

We like the 50-foot cable, telescoping wand, and flexible hose. These all add to this machine’s versatility, portability, and accessibility. You can get around more space without having to move from plug to plug.

Allergy-Friendly Filter

The combination of the four-level filtration and HEPA filter is a must-have for those with sensitivities. This is an excellent machine for easy deep cleaning. Plus, since it’s a commercial model, it’s built for frequent use.

What We Don't Like

There May Be Discomfort

We love the idea of backpack vacuums, but they take some getting used to. Some customers note that this machine is awkward to wear at first. In its defense, though, it includes an adjustable harness for extra comfort.

Room for Improvement

Customers also note that this machine isn’t as durable as they hoped. The hose comes apart easily, and the build’s quality isn’t as high as other machines.

Product Specs

Power 1188 watts
Dimensions 10.12 by 18 inches
Weight 11 pounds
Special Features 4-level filtration, flexible hose, adjustable harness
Accessories Crevice tool, soft dusting brush, claw nozzle, turbo brush, intercept micro filter bags, hard floor tool, telescoping wand, mesh storage bag

Our Ratings

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

Community Feedback

I'm an older individual with back issues, so I was initially concerned about the weight of this vacuum. However, after using it for the past 7 months in my cleaning business, I am thoroughly impressed. Not only does it have strong suction, but the adjustable straps make it easy to carry the weight on my waist rather than my shoulders. The attachments on the belt are a genius idea, making it easy to switch between cleaning tasks. Although it may feel a little heavy at times, I highly recommend this vacuum for its efficiency and thorough cleaning capabilities.

Eureka NEU182A Bagless Upright Vacuum

Best Commercial Vacuum for Deep Cleaning

This model implements a dynamic motor that combats stubborn dirt and debris. It has a 12.6-inch nozzle designed to clean up more and faster. The 4.1-liter deep dust cup eliminates extra maintenance, saving you time. Overall, if you’re looking for a deep clean, then this vacuum might be your best friend.

Whether you have hard floors, carpets, or rugs, you can count on this vacuum. Its brush adjusts to five heights, and its smooth wheels protect hard floors from scratches. It comes with the standard tools, but they’re much appreciated.

You get a crevice tool, a dusting brush, an upholstery tool, and a washable filter. There’s also a stretch-hose for high cleaning. Each accessory is stored on-board for convenience and can also be used to clean pet hair.

What We Like

Extra-Large Dust Cup

The 4.1-liter dust cup on this machine makes a big difference. In line with how convenient this model is meant to be, you will spend less time on maintenance. It also reduces the risk of clogging and loss of suction.

Handy Accessories for Deep Cleaning

Reiterating that not all commercial vacuums come with extras, we like that Eureka included the basics for home use. We especially like the flexible hose for cleaning high spots or difficult areas.

Multi-Floor Machine

This machine’s brush is adjustable, and it has smooth wheels. So, it preserves the condition of your hard floors and protects against abrasions. You can use the machine on carpets, rugs, and upholstery too.

What We Don't Like

Unstable and Heavy

It’s not the lightest machine out there. It weighs 10 pounds which is quite heavy. While it’s not a big issue, some customers report a slight instability in the machine. A few users say that it tends to lean or tip over if you let it go.

It’s Louder Than Competitors

It won’t break the sound barrier, but this machine is one of the louder ones. Though it can clean pet hair, it might frighten or disturb sensitive or indoor animals.

Product Specs

Power 960 watts
Dimensions 13.4 inches by 14 inches by 44.5 inches
Weight 10 pounds
Special Features Stretch hose, adjustable height, washable filter, extra-large dust cup
Accessories Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool

Our Ratings

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

First-Hand Impression

I recently replaced my old vacuum with the new Eureka bagless model and couldn't be happier with the results. The powerful suction and adjustable brush height settings make it perfect for tackling various surfaces, from shag carpets to hardwood floors. The lightweight design, easy-to-empty canister, and useful attachments make cleaning a breeze, even with a long-haired cat in the house.

Hoover C2401 Lightweight Backpack Vacuum

Best Commercial Vacuum for Your Back

A chiropractor designed this Hoover backpack vacuum so you know it’s safe for your back. It registers at only 66 decibels and is one of the quietest on the market, so it’s excellent for pet owners.

There are great accessories included too. It’s got a Hypercone filter with HEPA capabilities. You’ll also receive two straight wands, a crevice tool, an upholstery tool, a turbo tool, and a dusting brush.

There’s a 43-foot, three-wire quick change cord that saves time in installation, repairs, and replacements. Its transparent dome lid enables easy monitoring. Plus, it has the capacity for a disposable bag if you prefer.

What We Like

Comfortable to Use

It’s reassuring that a chiropractor designed the harness of this machine. This vacuum cleaner is easy to carry and won’t cause fatigue, strain, or injury. It’s better for your posture, muscles, back, and shoulders.

Filter and Volume Are Great for Pets

This model is both quiet and HEPA efficient. Pet owners stand to benefit greatly from this machine. It clears your space of allergens and won’t frighten your pets.

Cool Accessories for Versatile Use

We like that this machine includes two wands and a turbo brush. You get the basics, too, making it a versatile machine that you can use on various surfaces in your home.

What We Don't Like

It’s Finicky to Use

Customers say that the attachments are tricky to use and can be frustrating to connect. It’s not that it’s challenging to work with. You might just need to take some time to figure it out first.

Lower Residential-Level Suction

Users mention that this machine doesn’t suck as well as they expected. Compared to other commercial vacuums, this one’s suction feels more residential. It is still a powerful machine, though, and most customers are satisfied with it.

Product Specs

Power 1020 watts
Dimensions 13.2 inches by 13.2 inches by 30 inches
Weight 9.2 pounds
Special Features Chiropractic harness, Hypercone filter, 66-decibel motor
Accessories Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, turbo tool, two straight wands

Our Ratings

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

User Experience

Love this vacuum for hardwood floors and area rugs! I run a cleaning business and this lightweight machine has been a dream to use. It's easy on the back, and with some adjustments like wearing a waist strap, it's comfortable even for petite users like myself. The floor attachment is fantastic for various surfaces, effortlessly picking up dirt, dust bunnies, and even larger items like spare change.

Oreck XL2100RHS Commercial Upright Vacuum

Most Compact Commercial Vacuum

Like our top choice, it has a 12-inch cleaning range for more effective cleaning. This vacuum is designed for easy storage and only weighs 8.2 pounds. The Arthritis Foundation has also noted the Helping Hand handle. It certainly enables easier portability and use of this machine.

It’s a multi-floor model that’s effective on hard floors and carpets, and its brush will automatically adjust accordingly. With its high-speed motor, it can easily tackle stubborn dirt and debris. We like that it includes side brushes too.

One more feature that makes it compact is its 35-foot cord. It’s a good length, but less than other commercial vacuums. This is handy if you’re in a smaller space and don’t need excessive reach.

What We Like

Less Fuss, More User-Friendly

The 35-foot cable is handier if you’re looking for a commercial vacuum for home use. This is especially true if you’re in a smaller home and could do without the extra length of other commercial vacuums. Handling it is less of a hassle, as is its storage and portability.

Side Brushes Clean Edges

We think it’s cool that this upright vacuum has the capacity for Side Edge brushes. It adds to the machine’s versatility and cleans spots that are difficult to reach with other uprights.

Auto-Adjust Brush for Multi-Surface Use

This is a multi-floor machine that protects your hard floors from abrasions by automatically adjusting to them. It’s also quite a flexible upright and works well under furniture. Plus, if you’ve got carpets, this vacuum will cover you too.

What We Don't Like

Not As Durable As Customers Hoped

Some customers have said that they struggled with the durability of this machine. It’s unclear whether or not these complaints stem from negligence or design faults. So, take care to maintain this model properly to lengthen its lifespan.

No Accessories Included

As with our top choice, you won’t get many extras with this model. It includes the tools you need, but there aren’t any attachments for crevices, upholstery, or extra reach.

Product Specs

Power 480 watts
Dimensions 6 inches by 13 inches by 35 inches
Weight 8.2 pounds
Special Features Side Edge brushes, Helping Hand handle, auto-adjust brush
Accessories N/A

Our Ratings

Suction Power
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Filtration System
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with the new Oreck Commercial Upright Vacuum has been fantastic! It's lightweight and easy on my back, making it a breeze to move around my condo. The vacuum effortlessly transitions from carpet to kitchen floors, and its low-profile motor head allows me to clean under kitchen cabinets with ease. Although I miss the headlights from the older model, the overall performance of this vacuum has exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it.

Hoover CH30000 PortaPower Commercial Canister Vacuum

Best Commercial Vacuum for Precision

This Hoover’s strength lies in versatility and handling. It’s a lightweight model, weighing only 8.3 pounds. Despite its compact size, the 33-foot cord gives you a good amount of range.

You can use this vacuum on various surfaces, including fabrics, upholstery, rugs, and hard floors. It’s portable too, so it’s great for stairs, car interiors, or high spots. There’s a choice between paper and cloth dust bags, which is unique. So you can alternate according to what needs to be cleaned.

However, the highlight of this model is that it doubles as a blower too. It’s an all-rounder that you can use outdoors if need be.

What We Like

Blower Vacuum Combo

A defining feature of this vacuum is that you can also use it as a blower. It’s a top choice for people who need a vacuum for outdoor use. A bonus is that it will save you money on extra equipment.

For Various Surfaces Including Upholstery

This vacuum stands out as a commercial model because it can effectively handle fabrics and upholstery. It’s perfect for car interiors, furniture, and floors and is one of the more versatile commercial vacuums on the market.

It’s Compact and Easy to Store

The small stature of this model makes storage, portability, and usage so much easier. Its weight is competitive when compared to other canisters and commercial vacuums. People with larger or multi-story homes should shortlist this vacuum.

What We Don't Like

It’s Lacking for Carpets

A few users are dissatisfied with how this vacuum handles carpets. It’s apparently better for hard floors or small messes. It seems to work well on upholstery and interiors but may be ineffective if you’re looking to deep clean.

Small Dust Capacity

Remember that this is a compact commercial vacuum, so its dust capacity is smaller than others. It’s not a deal-breaker if you stick to using it as you would a handheld, rather than a deep-cleaner. But, if you use it daily, expect more maintenance.

Product Specs

Power 1440 watts
Dimensions 20.9 inches by 7.8 inches by 12.5 inches
Weight 8.3 pounds
Special features 33-foot cord, blower
Accessories Dusting brush, floor nozzle, crevice tool, filter bags, filter bag kit

Our Ratings

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

Community Feedback

My experience with this vacuum has been mostly positive, as it's lightweight, convenient, and powerful for its size. It's particularly handy for tight spaces, stairs, and various floor types, from area rugs to hardwood floors. However, I found the suction to be lacking compared to my Hoover, and it didn't come with a carpet attachment. Additionally, the extra-long power cord is useful, but tends to twist and tangle easily, making it a bit frustrating to put away. Despite these minor drawbacks, I still prefer this vacuum over more expensive options like Dyson, which didn't last as long in my experience.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Power Dimensions Weight
Oreck Commercial All Round 480 W 35″ x 13″ x 5.5″ 8 lbs
Vacmaster Industrial For Smaller Spaces 960 W 17.1″ x 13.2″ x 17.3″ 15 lbs
ProTeam Backpack Most Versatile 1188 W 10.12 x 18″ 11 lbs
Eureka NEU182A For Deep Cleaning 960 W 13.4″ x 14″ x 44.5″ 10 lbs
Hoover C2401 For Your Back 1020 W 13.2″ x 13.2″ x 30″ 9.2 lbs
Oreck XL2100RHS Most Compact 480 W 6″ x 13″ x 35″ 8.2 lbs
Hoover CH30000 For Precision 1440 W 20.9″ x 7.8″ x 12.5″ 8.3 lbs

Commercial vs. Residential Vacuums

You’ve probably heard that commercial vacuum cleaners are more efficient than residential machines, but do you know why? What sets the two apart? And is it true that the former are generally better machines?

There’s a simple explanation to differentiate between the two. Residential vacuums are designed for lighter use in smaller, less populated spaces.

On the other hand, commercial machines are meant for regular use in high-traffic zones. People typically use them in hospitals, factories, schools, and hotels.

Commercial machines are also made to withstand high usage levels, so they’re stronger structurally.

Commercial and residential vacuum cleaners differ in more subtle but important ways. But you shouldn’t be intimidated by commercial vacuums. They’re not impossible-to-wield, gigantic pieces of machinery.

You can use one in your home if you want to. It’s their build, design, and specs that matter. Here’s how commercial vacuums weigh up against residential models.

They Have a Wider Range

Commercial vacuum cleaners are designed to cover more ground. Their brushes are wider, their dust bins are bigger, and — if it’s a corded comparison — their cables will stretch further.

Regardless, they’re not much bigger or heavier than residential machines. This could be why they’re rising in popularity for home use. They’re capable of all the jobs you would use a residential vacuum for — and are more efficient at them.

They Place Emphasis on Filtration

Commercial vacuums are often used in factories, hospitals, and highly populated areas, so they usually have excellent filters. This isn’t always the case, but it’s almost guaranteed in commercial models.

Filters that clean the air, trap and contain dirt, and reduce pollutants and allergens are essential in commercial vacuums. However, this is still considered a bonus feature in residential machines rather than an expectation.

Tip: You’ll still want to double-check that your commercial machine has sufficient filtration. In general, their standard vacuums are more impressive than their residential equivalents. But this doesn’t mean that they’re allergy-approved.

They’re More Capable and Durable

Commercial vacuums are made of stronger stuff because they have to endure more. They can suck up rougher or larger debris and are protected from internal damage and clogging.

Most commercial machines also have wet/dry capabilities since it’s likely that they’ll come across spills.

Some models even have a special magnet installed. The purpose of this is to catch and prevent sharp pieces of metal from entering the machine.

These machines generally have tougher casing, stronger filters, and damage-resistant components. Overall, this means that they’re more durable. So, with regular maintenance, they may last longer than the average residential machine.

Take Note

Before you buy a commercial machine, look at both its warranty and components. Though these machines are built to last longer, they often come with shorter warranty terms. So make sure that replacement parts are easy to find.

Stronger Suction

Most commercial machines are engineered to clean up all dirt in their path in a single sweep. Suction is said to be as much as 10 times stronger than in residential models.

Commercial machines also have to work faster and often for longer cleaning bouts.

They’re capable of this because they have larger (and structurally stronger) motors. Commercial vacuums are therefore better for tackling stubborn dirt and bigger messes.

Beware

Stronger suction could mean higher electricity consumption. You could end up spending more in the long run. So look at the model’s units before you purchase it.

Types of Commercial Vacuums

Commercial vacuum cleaners don’t come in as wide an assortment as residential ones. Don’t confuse commercial with industrial vacuums — they’re an entire category on their own.

The most significant difference is that industrial machines are much larger. And as a result, they often require more than one set of hands to operate them.

Upright Commercial Vacuums

These are the prime example of commercial vacuums. They’re designed almost exactly like their residential equivalents and only have a few unique traits.

We mentioned that commercial vacuums have larger capacities, so don’t be surprised if they’re bigger. This won’t always be the case, of course. But there is potential for commercial uprights to be slightly chunkier than you’d expect.

Their cables are longer, and their plugs are different. Also, standard vacuums have two prongs, while commercial vacuums have three. They need more power, so it makes sense that their structure accommodates their electricity demand.

Their brushes are bigger, but they have fewer accessories than residential vacuums. You can still purchase extras or add-ons, of course. But a new model likely has only the basics to begin with.

Pros

  • Excellent for deep cleaning floors.
  • Extra-long cables for a wider range.
  • Stronger suction than residential vacuums.
  • Reasonably priced compared to industrial commercial vacuums.
  • Larger dust capacity, often 2-4 liters.

Cons

  • Heavy, averaging around eight pounds.
  • Limited accessories make it difficult for tight spots.
  • Not as versatile as residential upright vacuums.

Backpack Vacuums

Backpack vacuums aren’t popular in homes, but they’re incredibly versatile. The premise is that you carry the canister of this vacuum on your back. Holding them this way makes the machine as a whole more moveable, versatile, and functional.

Since you wear these vacuums, they have to be lightweight. They usually come with a range of attachments and are often multi-surface vacuums. They have stronger suction and higher capacities than residential backpack vacuums.

People love them because they’re easy to transport and won’t get in your way. Users get more reach and power out of these machines, and they can be helpful in larger cleaning areas.

Pros

  • Versatile, working on multiple surfaces.
  • Lightweight, so it shouldn’t hurt to wear it for long periods.
  • Portable due to the backpack design.
  • Allow for more reach for uninterrupted cleaning.

Cons

  • They cost more than upright or canister vacuums.
  • Not as popular for home use.
  • Could be uncomfortable at first.

Canister Vacuums

Canister vacuums are prevalent in residential cleaning because they’re more versatile than uprights. However, they’re not as widespread in commercial cleaning.

With canisters, you don’t have to push the entire machine along with you as you go. A hose connects the wand to the canister, which trails behind you on a set of wheels. They make for less laborious cleaning, thanks to their design.

What’s most appealing about canister vacuums is their capacity for accessories. Most canisters come with standard add-ons, so save you money on tools.

Pros

  • Easiest to use, which makes for quick cleaning.
  • Less effort to operate than upright vacuums.
  • Accessories are included to save you money on add-ons.
  • Versatile hose lets you get into high or low spots.

Cons

  • Less control over the canister.
  • Not common in commercial use.
  • Assembly may be required.

How to Choose a Commercial Vacuum

If you’ve got your heart set on a commercial vacuum but aren’t sure which one to choose, we can help you decide. Commercial vacuums typically cost more than residential ones, so don’t waste money on something you’re unsure of. Before you go shopping, determine the following:

Do You Need a Commercial Vacuum?

Now, we don’t want to dash your dreams; we’re just looking out for you. A commercial vacuum may not be necessary for your situation.

Remember that they’re not that different from standard vacuums; they’re just built for heavy-duty work. So if you have a small home that won’t need frequent, intense cleaning, reconsider. You could save money by settling for a residential vacuum.

Commercial vacuums are meant for busy areas that need daily deep cleaning. They’re designed to fight large or difficult messes. Although they have mass appeal, you won’t necessarily need them in homes.

Can You Accommodate One?

If you recall, we mentioned that commercial uprights typically use different plugs from residential vacuums. This isn’t a calamity, but if you want one for home use, you’ll have to make sure that you can plug it in. You might need an adapter for it.

Unfortunately, not all homes will come equipped with the appropriate sockets.

Versatility or Power?

If you need a mighty machine, go for an upright. But if you’d rather have versatility, choose a backpack vacuum.

The former might not be of much use, though, if you’re hoping to deep clean all areas of your home. You can upgrade it through attachments (depending on the make), but this will cost extra. Plus, uprights aren’t always the best choice if you live in a multi-story home.

Regardless, they’re powerful machines, and there aren’t many alternatives to their efficiency.

Backpack vacuums may not be as powerful, but they still pack a punch. Their strength lies in usability.

So, if you’re willing to sacrifice strength for a machine that can clean almost anything in your home, go for one of these. They’re also better for multi-story homes because they’re lightweight.

What’s Your Budget?

Uprights are the more affordable option, but you have to factor in the extra you may have to spend. If you aren’t satisfied with its accessories, purchasing what you need will cost you. The same applies to the adapter we mentioned, or filters if need be.

On the other hand, backpacks are likely to come with everything you need, but they’re not cheap.

Therefore, before committing to either, think about what you want more. Would you rather save money and miss out on versatility? Or would you spend more for more value?

What Filters Are Installed?

You wouldn’t want a commercial machine if deep cleaning wasn’t important to you. That’s why you should double-check your desired model’s filtration. HEPA filtration is the norm for clean air, especially if you have allergies or respiratory issues (1).

It won’t help much if your machine has fantastic suction but useless filters. Check the specs before you commit to one. It will give you a realistic expectation of your machine so that you won’t be met with disappointment later on.


FAQs

How Do You Use a Commercial Vacuum?

Knowing how to use a commercial vacuum is crucial if you want the best performance. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before you start, and choose the proper attachment for the task.

Plug in the machine and turn it on. Start at the farthest point of the room and work in straight lines until you’ve covered the entire surface.

How Long Does a Commercial Vacuum Cleaner Last?

A commercial vacuum cleaner lasts up to eight years, but it can vary depending on the brand. It also depends on how frequently the vacuum gets used and whether it is adequately maintained.

What Vacuum Cleaner Do Hotels Use?

The vacuum cleaner that hotels use is the Oreck Commercial Upright. It is lightweight, has a 40-foot power cord, and uses Saniseal technology to lock allergens inside the bag. It also has a top-filling bag, a 12-inch suction span, and a powerful motor.

What Kind of Vacuum Do Car Detailers Use?

The kind of vacuum car detailers use is a wet and dry model, like this Craftsman 16-Gallon heavy-Duty Vacuum Cleaner. It is powerful, with dual-flex technology to avoid hose kinking, and it has a blower port at the rear that acts like a leaf blower.

Is a Dyson Vacuum Good for Commercial Use?

A Dyson is good for commercial use because they are compact, lightweight, and powerful. Dyson motors produce efficient suction, which is excellent for dirty floors, and they are quiet.


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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.