There’s nothing better than hitting the road in your motorhome and going on family adventures. But, while it’s a lot of fun, it’s easy for the interior to get grubby.
From outdoor debris in the rugs to mud on your upholstery, road tripping can get dirty – and fast. Plus, with all that time in the great outdoors, there’s always a risk that insects or ticks will find their way into your carpets or furniture (1).
How can you fix this? One of the best RV vacuums is a great place to start. It can help you clean up grime and sanitize your motorhome, so you’re ready to go again.
Keep reading for our five favorite RV vacuums. With our research and recommendations, you’ll soon find the right one for you.
- Weighs 2.8 pounds
- Pet Power motorized brush
- Easy to clean
- 28 air watts of suction
- Multi-functional design
- Two-tier radial cyclone system
- Weighs 2.87 pounds
- LED power brush
- Four-stage filtration system
- Pivoting vacuum nozzle
- Rechargeable battery
- Easy-to-use attachments
- HEPA filter
- Extendable handle
- 19.7 feet cord
The Best RV Vacuums of 2024
These are the five best RV vacuums rated by weight, suction power, brush roll, capacity, and price.
Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus Cordless Handheld Vacuum
Best RV Vacuum for Pets
Most cats and dogs tend to shed, leaving hair all over your RV. If this is a problem for you, then check out this vacuum from Shark.
We’ve fittingly awarded this model “Best for Pets.” The Pet Pro motorized brush will do a great job on the hair that your shedding dogs or cats leave behind.
This 80-watt Shark UltraCyclone also has many other excellent features, making it an obvious choice for your motorhome. It’s excellent on carpets and floors, and has attachments that make it extremely versatile. It’s also made for quick use around your RV without any hassles.
What We Like
Only Weighs 2.8 Pounds
Most of us try to keep extra weight and bulk out of our recreational vehicles. That’s why you want smaller and lighter vacuum cleaners onboard.
This Shark UltraCyclone only weighs 2.8 pounds, making it very portable. It’s sure to make cleaning on the move a lot easier.
Includes Pet Power Motorized Brush
We love how well this attachment can deep clean your RV. As the name suggests, Shark made it specifically with pet owners in mind. The powered roller brush is just what you need to pick up hair that sticks to furniture and floors.
It has powerful suction, which is excellent for cleaning carpets, floors, and upholstery. You can trust this device to capture all the hair and pet dander your furry friend leaves behind.
Cleans Everywhere With Accessories
The accessories included with the Shark UltraCyclone make it an all-rounder; it’s not just for rugs. It comes with a dusting brush, excellent for tabletops and counter surfaces.
There’s a crevice tool, which is great for getting into corners and edges.
Easy to Clean the Vacuum Itself
The 0.43-liter dust canister on this vacuum is pretty easy to clean. Just press the button to automatically open the compartment and empty the debris into the trash.
It also has a washable filter. Just give it a rinse, let it dry, and then pop it back in.
What We Don't Like
You Can’t Remove the Dust Canister
Some bagless vacuum cleaners have a removable dust bin, but this one does not. For some users, this makes it more difficult to empty when it’s full.
Being permanently attached to the main machine, it’s also harder to wash when it gets filthy.
Product Specs
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.43 liters |
| Weight | 2.8 pounds |
| Style | Handheld |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Handheld Conversion | Already handheld |
Our Ratings
Dyson DC59 Cordless Vacuum
Most Powerful Cordless RV Vacuum
If you’re looking for a powerhouse, this may be the one for you. This model is designed by Dyson – one of the best names in vacuum cleaners.
There are many reasons to love this vacuum, not just the excellent reputation of Dyson. We’ve included it on our list because of its power and versatility.
You should enjoy 24 minutes of cleaning from its lithium-ion battery. One full charge takes up to 3.5 hours to complete on the convenient docking station.
The Dyson DC59 also converts from a stick to a handheld. Empty its dust canister without fuss: one touch of a button and the contents drop into the trash.
What We Like
28 Air Watts of Suction
For a cordless vacuum, the cleaning power of this Dyson is unsurpassed. It has two vacuuming modes to choose from – standard and boost. This makes it perfect for all your cleaning needs.
On standard mode, you get 28 air watts of suction for light cleaning.
Boost Mode increases the power by over 200 percent to 100 air watts. This is the strongest on our list, making it ideal for deep cleaning.
Multi-functional Design
This model is designed to be multifaceted. It’s a lightweight stick model that can transform into a handheld vacuum. You can clean ceilings, floors, and upholstery effortlessly.
The light weight makes it easy to raise it above your head or reach it beneath the furniture. You can also attach the crevice or combination tool for hard-to-reach spots.
We love the motorized brush — it really helps you get deep into the carpet pile.
Two-Tier Radial Cyclone System
Do you or members of your family have allergies? This can be enough of a problem when you spend lots of time outdoors. So you don’t want the air inside your RV to make things worse.
With the Dyson DC59, you don’t have to worry about dust or contaminants escaping back into the air. It has a two-tier radial cyclone system, trapping everything inside the dustbin.
Extended Warranty
Dyson is one of the most trusted names in vacuum cleaners and stands behind its products. So, you are not likely to experience problems with this machine.
But you can rest easy knowing that Dyson will fix it if you do. They provide a two-year warranty with this model in case anything goes wrong.
What We Don't Like
Small Dustbin Capacity
For a stick vacuum, we’re disappointed in the small dustbin capacity. It can only hold 0.45 liters of dirt. For casual everyday cleaning, this should be no problem.
However, it may not be big enough to see you through a truly deep clean. You’re likely to need a few extra trips to the trash can to empty it.
Product Specs
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.45 liters |
| Weight | 5 pounds |
| Style | Stick vacuum |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Handheld Conversion | Yes |
Our Ratings
Tineco A10 Hero Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
Most Lightweight RV Vacuum
Having a lightweight design is essential for easy RV cleaning. That’s why we recommend this stick vacuum that weighs less than three pounds.
We like that it easily and quickly converts to a handheld vacuum. Eject it from the stick component to use on furnishings and surfaces.
The 2000 mAh lithium battery provides 350 watts of power to the brushless motor. Thankfully, you can detach and replace the battery when it reaches the end of its life.
When your vacuuming is done, it’s easy to empty the dustbin – just hit the button to drop dirt into the trash.
The Tineco A10 comes with a two-year warranty.
What We Like
Three Handy Attachments
We love the variety of attachments you receive with this appliance. There’s a crevice tool for getting deep into corners and edges. It also includes a mini power brush and a dusting brush.
With the right tool attached to your vacuum, you’ll be ready to tackle every nook and cranny of your RV.
LED Power Brush
Sometimes dirt or dust can be hard to see. But this doesn’t mean you have to miss it while vacuuming.
We love the LED light on the front of the power brush. This makes it convenient for cleaning in dark spots, such as underneath sofas or tables. It lets you see any dust bunnies in hiding.
Four-Stage Filtration System
Nobody wants to worry about allergies while they’re enjoying RV-living. With this vacuum cleaner, you won’t have to.
The four-stage filtration system makes sure any dust mites and allergens are captured from your RV. It traps 99.99 percent of particles – perfect for keeping allergies at bay.
Continuous Power Mode
There’s a continuous power mode switch lock on this vacuum. You can use the trigger for control or activate the lock to sustain suction power for cleaning sessions.
The Tineco A10 Cordless allows for up to 25 minutes of vacuuming. If you choose the max mode for deep cleaning though, it only lasts 10 minutes.
What We Don't Like
Customers Disappointed With the Suction Power
Some customers have complained about the suction. Occasionally a user may have to make two or three passes over the same area to collect dirt and debris. This shouldn’t be an issue if you don’t have deep-pile carpets in your RV.
Product Specs
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.4 liters |
| Weight | 2.87 pounds |
| Style | Stick vacuum |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Handheld Conversion | Yes |
Our Ratings
Black+Decker BDH2000PL MAX Cordless Handheld Vacuum
Most Versatile RV Vacuum
This RV vacuum from Black & Decker has a unique pivoting nozzle.
It’s a handheld model that’s extremely lightweight and easy to use. It weighs only three pounds and has various cleaning tools already attached.
Emptying the 0.44-liter dirt bowl is easy because it tips straight into the trash with the touch of a button. It also has a wide mouth which allows you to pick up more dust and grime in one pass.
There’s a three-stage filtration system that locks in contaminants and allergens. We know they certainly shouldn’t recirculate into the air. It also has a washable filter and comes with a two-year warranty.
What We Like
Pivoting Vacuum Nozzle
Sometimes cleaning hard-to-reach places means you have to twist your back or arm in uncomfortable ways. Black and Decker have solved this problem with their pivoting nozzle. It’s the only vacuum on our list with this unique feature.
You can set it at any angle up to 200 degrees to capture dirt anywhere in your RV. Simply use the pivoting lock button to secure it to the angle you desire, then turn it on.
Rechargeable 20-Volt Battery
This Black and Decker vacuum is powered by a 20-volt lithium-ion battery, providing strong suction for picking up dirt and debris. It can supply non-stop vacuuming for 15 minutes at 35 air watts.
A full charge will take around four hours to complete, and there’s a light to indicate when it’s done. The charging base is compact and can be placed on a worktop or surface.
Easy-to-Use Attachments
A neat feature is that the attachments are fixed to the vacuum. So, you won’t have to worry about where to store them or risk losing them.
The two attachments included are a flip-up brush and an extendable crevice tool. They are easy to use and make this vacuum ready to tackle nearly any part of your RV.
What We Don't Like
Shorter Runtime Than Expected
Not all customers are satisfied with the runtime. Some estimates claim that it can run for up to 25 minutes on a single charge. However, we’ve seen users complain that they haven’t been able to get a full 15 minutes out of this vacuum.
For everyday tasks, though, this should be more than enough. However, a deeper clean may require a recharge to get the job done.
Product Specs
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.44 liters |
| Weight | 3 pounds |
| Style | Handheld vacuum |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Handheld Conversion | N/A |
Our Ratings
VonHaus 2-in-1 Stick & Handheld Vacuum Cleaner
Best RV Vacuum for Allergies
If you have allergies, the last thing you need is to be traveling in an RV with pollutants. The good news is that the VonHaus vacuum has a HEPA filter.
This stick vacuum weighs only 5.5 pounds and works on hardwood floors or short pile carpets. It also converts to a handheld to clean surfaces and upholstery.
When in stick mode, you can adjust the telescopic handle to suit your height. It extends up to 48 inches long.
The dustbin capacity for this bagless vacuum is a whopping 1.3 liters — massive compared to some on our list.
What We Like
HEPA Filter for Allergies
We gave this VonHaus the “Best for Allergies” award for an excellent reason. The HEPA sponge filtration system is great for ridding the air in your RV of allergens. It will remove and trap pollen, dust mites, and dander.
Capturing contaminants should help to reduce sneezing, skin irritation, itchy eyes, and wheezing.
Extendable Handle for Comfort
This is the only RV vacuum on our list that features an extendable handle. Being telescopic, it can reach any length up to 48 inches.
This makes it comfortable to use even if you’re on the shorter side. And if you’re tall, it can help you avoid back pain from awkward bending.
Attachments and Accessories
There’s a fair choice of attachments for removing dust and dirt – a crevice tool, mini brush, and extension tube. Just choose the one you need, and you should be able to clean anywhere.
We also like that this model comes with a shoulder strap. This helps to distribute the machine’s weight more comfortably when using it as a handheld. The strap is simple to attach and remove as needed.
19.7 Feet Cord
There’s no need to worry about the cord limiting your movement. It has an impressive length of 19.7 feet, so you can cover most ground without moving from plug to plug.
We also like that there are two cord wraps. These help for quickly unraveling, securing, and storing the cord compactly.
What We Don't Like
Doesn’t Vacuum Long Pile Carpet
The suction power on this vacuum is not the greatest for longer pile carpets. Some users have said they needed several passes in order to pick up all the debris.
If your RV has mostly flooring or low-pile rugs, you should have no problem at all.
Product Specs
| Dustbin Capacity | 1.3 liters |
| Weight | 5.5 pounds |
| Style | Stick |
| Cordless | No |
| Handheld Conversion | Yes |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Dustbin Capacity | Weight | Style | Cordless | Handheld Conversion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark UltraCyclone | For Pets | 0.43 L | 2.8 lbs | Handheld | Yes | Already handheld |
| Dyson DC59 | Most Powerful | 0.45 L | 5 lbs | Stick | Yes | Yes |
| Tineco A10 Hero | Most Lightweight | 0.4 L | 2.87 lbs | Stick | Yes | Yes |
| Black+Decker BDH2000PL | Most Versatile | 0.44 L | 3 lbs | Handheld | Yes | N/A |
| VonHaus 2-in-1 | For Allergies | 1.3 L | 5.5 lbs | Stick | No | Yes |
Why Should You Buy an RV Vacuum?
You may be thinking – can’t I use my ordinary upright vacuum to clean my motorhome? Do I need to buy one especially for my RV?
It might not seem like the most essential accessory to take on the road. But trust us — it’s going to make your life a lot easier if you have an RV vacuum. Here are some of the reasons why it’s a great tool to keep on board.
Easier to Maneuver
A bulky upright or canister vacuum is not ideal for cleaning your RV’s floors and furnishings.
A larger vacuum cleaner is difficult to maneuver around closely-packed furniture. This is particularly true when some items in your RV are fixed to the floor. You can’t just move them out the way to clean underneath as you do at home.
For your RV vacuum, therefore, choose a vacuum that is nimble and adaptable. This will let you navigate around tight surroundings and get rid of dirt more easily.
Minimal Storage
There’s typically not a lot of space to spare in a motorhome. You need every cupboard and shelf for your clothes and equipment. In this case, the last thing you want is a massive vacuum taking up more room.
A stick or handheld cleaner is going to take up less space since they’re slender and lightweight. You’ll also find that they tuck away nicely.
How to Choose (Buying Guide)
If you’ve decided to buy an RV vacuum, but aren’t sure what to look for, don’t sweat it. Our team has explored the internet to find the best vacuum for your recreational vehicle.
After examining different models, we’ve put together this list of features to look out for. Think about which of these are important to you for making cleaning your RV easier.
Vacuum Style
We recommend a stick or handheld vacuum for your RV. These two types will be best for both vacuuming and storing.
If you can’t decide between the two, there are dual-functional vacuums. For example, some stick vacuums convert to handhelds, giving you versatility for cleaning all surfaces.
Another huge advantage is that both are bagless vacuums. These are easier to empty — usually, you can just dump the dust and dirt directly into the trash.
Weight
If a machine is too heavy, it’ll be more challenging to carry around the motorhome.
So, we recommend that you look for one between three to six pounds approximately. These are easy to handle, and although they’re lightweight, they’ll still do a stellar job.
Attachments
The more attachments you have for your vacuum, the better. It certainly makes the device more versatile.
A crevice tool, for instance, is a long, narrow pipe that picks up dirt in narrow spaces. On the other hand, dusting brushes, with their softer bristles, are suitable for countertops.
Stretch hoses give you the freedom to vacuum around furniture.
For upholstery and scrubbing at ground-in dirt, you can look out for power brushes. These are attachments with stiff bristles – perfect for agitating marks and stubborn grime.
While not a cleaning attachment, a shoulder strap is a great accessory. It helps balance the weight of the vacuum, making cleaning more comfortable.
Brush Roll
Does your motorhome have a lot of carpets? Then, you’ll want to choose a stick or handheld vacuum with a brush roll. The bristles rotate with the suction power.
A brush roll is ideal for cleaning high-pile carpets. If, however, you have a lot of hard flooring in your RV, you might be better off without one. The bristles can damage smooth surfaces.
Corded Versus Cordless
One of the most significant decisions you’ll have when choosing an RV vacuum is whether to go for a corded or cordless model. Which one you opt for comes down to your personal preference. Let’s take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of both.
Corded Vacuum
Corded vacuums generally offer more suction power. So, if you’re deep cleaning your motor vehicle, this might get the job done more efficiently.
If you’ve got a large RV, though, a corded model can hold you back. For one, changing to different power outlets can be irritating after a while.
But if you do choose a corded vacuum, a longer power cable will make your life easier. Aim for between 15 and 20 feet.
Cordless Vacuum
Cordless machines offer more freedom — there’s no cable holding you back. This is usually a more suitable option in an RV with limited power outlets.
If you’re thinking of going cordless, choosing one with a lithium-ion battery is essential. These are low maintenance and last up to five years.
You also want to look for a model that offers a good cleaning time. The minimum you want is 10 minutes — around 20 to 30 minutes is best for an average-sized RV.
A cordless vacuum is also the better option if you don’t always have an electrical hookup when it’s time to clean.
Dust Canister Capacity
If you’re like us, you’ll probably deep clean your RV before you set off on your travels. This is where a large dust canister capacity is useful. It’ll save you several trips to empty the dirt into the trash.
When you’re on the road, it’s a good idea to empty your vacuum into an external trash can regularly, even if the dust canister isn’t full. Research shows that bacteria such as salmonella and Enterobacteriaceae can survive in vacuum cleaner dust for up to two months (2).
So, keep the dirt inside your sealed vacuum until you can empty it, then dispose of it away from your RV.
Warranty
It’s always helpful to have a warranty from the manufacturer for your new vacuum. Even when buying a reliable brand and model, protection is good for peace of mind.
Ideally, you want to keep an eye out for one or two-year warranties.
HEPA Filter
Just like in your home, allergens and dust mites can gather in an RV. So, if you’re sensitive to anything from pollen to pet dander, you’ll need a vacuum with a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter.
HEPA filters can trap small, microscopic particles in the fine mesh and remove them from the air of your RV (3). A HEPA filter can give you relief from your allergies, preventing sneezing and irritation.
It’s recommended to vacuum around once per week with a HEPA vacuum to prevent a build-up of dust mites. The filter ensures they’re captured and not just sent circulating back in the air.
FAQs
How Does an RV Vacuum Work?
An RV vacuum works in the same way as other stick and handheld vacuum cleaners. The dirt gets sucked through the hose and deposited in the dust chamber to be emptied later. Some work with cyclonic action, like this Dyson V8 Animal, for increased suction.
What is the Best RV Vacuum Cleaner?
The Shark Rocket is the best RV vacuum cleaner, in our opinion. It weighs 3.7 pounds, has a TruePet motorized brush, and is easy to clean. It is a corded vacuum cleaner, so you never suffer a suction loss like the cordless models when the battery drains.
How Do You Install a Central Vacuum On an RV?
You can install a central vacuum on an RV by hiding the vacuum canister in a cupboard or recess and channeling the pipework and ducts behind the walls and floor. You will need hose ports at either end of the RV so the vacuum hose can reach.
How Do You Empty an RV Central Vacuum?
The way to empty an RV central vacuum is to access the central vacuum unit and remove the dust bag. Most central vacuums are hidden behind storage panels or in cupboards.
