Have you recently installed hardwood floors? Or are you looking to upgrade your current floors? If you’re wondering what’s the best vacuum for hardwood floors, you’re in the right place.
Hardwood is often a delicate material, easily scratched or damaged. Vacuums specifically designed to clean these floors should keep them in pristine condition. Some of them might even give your floor the shine it used to have.
However, not every vacuum is suitable for hardwood floors.
Vacuuming Hardwood Floors
You’ll find an endless number of vacuums available at your department store. Why are some of them specifically designed to clean hardwood floors? How are they different?
Many of us protect our hardwood floors with a coating, wax, or another protective spray. This layer is necessary to keep your floor healthy and shiny.
But fine dander and dust tend to deposit there and stick to the surface. So, vacuuming without the proper tools will remove debris from the floor, but won’t catch the tiny particles. You’ll need a special attachment to agitate them before using a suction power.
Additionally, devices designed to clean hardwood floors don’t typically come with strong power. Middle-to-low suction power will suffice. Compared to carpeted floorings, it doesn’t require as much force to pick up dirt on hard floors.
Most hardwood floors are also fragile. If scratched, they may leave marks on the floor. Therefore, hardwood floor vacuums should be rubberized to avoid damaging your floor. Attachment brushes should also feature soft bristles or foam.
Because many homeowners tend to appreciate versatility, most vacuums are designed to clean both hardwood and carpeted flooring. Still, you’ll find a few devices for hardwood only.
Types of Vacuums for Hardwood Floors
Many types of vacuums come with at least one suitable attachment or feature for hardwood floors. Some, however, are safer or easier to use.
Stick Vacuums
Stick vacuums are ideal to clean hardwood floors. They’re usually lightweight and easy to move around.
Although they often offer a lower suction power, this shouldn’t be an issue for hard floors. More compact than upright models, they’re easier to store and put away.
While most stick vacuums are power operated, cordless devices are available at a higher price point. Still, they can be a good investment.
For one, you won’t need to rely on plugs or worry about short power cords. You also won’t find the cord in the way while you’re vacuuming. When selecting a cordless device, though, battery life will be a key factor.
Unfortunately, most stick devices don’t include attachments. Without a crevice tool, it might be challenging to clean within tight spaces and along baseboards.
- Portable.
- Lightweight and compact.
- Convenient to store.
- Most don’t include attachments.
Handheld Vacuums
Looking for a simple method to clean your stairs? This type of vacuum is great for touch-ups and to tidy up after accidents, making them fantastic backup devices. However, they’re not suitable for large surfaces.
You’ll find that many stick vacuums convert into handheld devices, allowing both uses. Much smaller than other types, handheld vacuums are light and often cordless.
We recommend checking the power rating, though. Some budget-friendly options feature extremely low suction power — even for hardwood floors.
- Most compact type.
- Cordless.
- Great for spot cleaning.
- Often feature low power.
Canister Vacuums
Canister devices are made of two separate components: the wand and the cylindrical engine. They’re connected with a flexible hose, allowing you to reach tighter spaces.
They often come with a series of smaller attachments to clean your couch, under furniture, or along baseboards. Most feature wheels and will follow you on flat surfaces, wherever you go.
- Access hard-to-reach places.
- Often come with attachments.
- Portable.
- Non-rubber wheels can scratch floors.
Upright Vacuums
Unless you’re looking for a multi-purpose vacuum able to clean both hardwood and carpet, upright devices are the least preferable. They often provide strong power, which isn’t necessary for hardwood floors.
Heavier, they also represent a bigger risk of damaging floors. Plus, unless they can convert into a canister type, you wouldn’t be able to clean smaller spaces.
Regardless, if you’re choosing an upright vacuum for your hardwood floor, ensure that the brushes can be turned off. Regular floor heads typically feature hard bristles that could damage the wood.
- Strong power.
- Multi-surface.
- Easily clean large surfaces.
- Heavier than other types.
- Larger footprint.
Robot Vacuums
Robot vacuums are the latest vacuum innovation. These trendy high-tech devices act as your cleaning assistant. The best ones can even be programmed remotely. Just let your robot know what and where to clean, and they’ll do the work for you.
To use your robot on a hardwood floor, ensure that the bristles are soft and won’t damage the wood.
- They do the work, not you.
- Clean all surfaces.
- Avoid obstacles.
- Smaller dust container.
Steam Vacuums
If you’re looking for a device that removes more than the visible dirt, a steam vacuum should meet your needs.
These devices use steam to remove stains and kill any germs or bacteria found on the floor. The heat leaves little-to-no moisture behind and won’t damage sealed hardwood floors.
Please Note
- Provides a deep clean.
- Versatile.
- Often feature lower power.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing
What makes a good vacuum for hardwood floors? Here are the main elements worth considering before committing to a specific model.
1. Personal Needs and Usage
Knowing the purpose of your vacuum is crucial. You’ll want to ensure that it meets your present requirements, but also your future needs.
While your floor might be hardwood, you may also have to vacuum your couch, rugs, or carpets. In this case, you’ll want to go for a multi-surface device. Thinking ahead might save you money down the road.
You’ll also want to take into consideration if a staircase needs to be cleaned. If so, portability and weight will be key.
Keep in mind that some vacuums can be convertible, allowing multiple uses. Upright vacuums can transform into a canister type, while a stick device can become a handheld vacuum.
2. Filtration System
The first level of filtration is either a dust bag or a dust bin. Bags are convenient as they can simply be pulled out of the device and placed into the garbage. Also, if you’re prone to allergies, they’re ideal as they won’t let dust and dirt fly around.
Dust bins, on the other hand, are more eco-friendly and cost-effective. The bin is often easy to empty and doesn’t require any additional expense.
The second level of filtration can be placed close to the air exit point. It catches tiny dust and allergens not trapped by the first level of filtration. These filters are called “HEPA filters.”
Selecting a device with a HEPA filter means that up to 99.99 percent of the air particles going through the filter should be cleared (1). Some models add a sealant to ensure no air escapes in the process.
Unsurprisingly, devices with HEPA filters are usually more expensive. The filters themselves may also be costly to replace. They can, however, be very beneficial to anyone suffering from allergies.
3. Cleaning Brushes
Whichever vacuum type you’re selecting, having a close look at the cleaning brush shouldn’t be optional.
Almost every vacuum comes with built-in brushes. Although some are very small, stiff bristles can be amazing on carpet but damage hardwood floors.
If your device comes with beater brushes, make sure there’s an “off” function. Sometimes it’s right on the floor head, foot operated.
4. Power
For most hardwood floors, strong power isn’t necessarily better. Low-to-medium power will usually suffice. On hard and flat surfaces, it drives dirt to the air source.
If your floor, however, contains deep cracks, you’ll want to use stronger power. Hair and other particles will get stuck in the lines and will require stronger suction to be removed.
5. Padding
Proper padding should allow you to use your vacuum without lacerating the floor. This is even more important if your machine is heavy, such as with upright vacuums.
Vacuums designed for hardwood floors often have rubber padding on the floor head itself or even under the wheels. They provide a cushion between the metallic or plastic parts of the device and the ground.
6. Maneuverability
It’s best to select a device that is easy to use and maneuver. Generally speaking, the lighter and the more compact your vacuum is, the better.
An easy-to-grab handle is also necessary to move the device safely. Some even include a swivel function, allowing you to change direction without lifting it.
7. Attachments
To clean large portions of flooring, you’ll want to choose a device with a large floor head. You’ll also need brushes to shake and detach the dust before applying any suction power. Choose soft and gentle bristles.
A crevice tool may come in handy. It enables you to access smaller places and extends the use of your device. If you have parquet, it can also be used to clean in between lines.
An extension wand can also make a nice addition. It allows you to reach further with less effort.
8. Cord Length
The length of the power cord is often undervalued. If you’re not opting for a cordless device, ensure that your power cord is at least 25-feet long. This should be enough to vacuum a large area before changing the plug.
Cord rewind systems can also be a convenient feature when putting your vacuum away.
9. Noise Level
Both economical and powerful vacuums tend to be noisier. The best devices come with sound-reducing interior padding. If you have young children or sensitive neighbors, this might be a premium but important feature to keep in mind.
The Best Vacuums for Hardwood Floors of 2020
To compile this list, we spent hours comparing the features and specifications of vacuums for hardwood floors. We’ve analyzed all the customer reviews and added our personal insight to come up with our top seven options.
1. Eufy BoostIQ RoboVac
This award-winning robot vacuum should clean your hardwood floors whether you’re home or not. It’s ideal for anyone trying to save time or if cleaning isn’t your thing.
Although remarkably quiet, it still provides a strong suction power of 1300 Pa. Unlike other robots, it features an impressive battery providing 100 minutes of running time. It has a climbing threshold of 0.63 inches, enabling it to maneuver up and down small objects.
The robot uses three filters — including an extra high-performance filter — to ensure your floors are properly cleaned. Its remote control comes with the needed batteries and allows several functions.
It’s covered with a protective glass to avoid damage and scratches. But if any issue arises, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty.
- Extra-thin design.
- Adjustable cleaning power.
- Quiet mode.
- Automatic cleaning.
- Smaller dust container than other vacuum types.
Why We Love It
Extra-Thin Design
Most robots claim to clean under furniture, but often fail to reach under the lowest ones. You then need an extra set of cleaning tools to finish the work.
This robot has been designed to be one of the thinnest devices. With a height of 2.85 inches, users report that it’s slim enough to squeeze under most of their furniture.
Adjustable Cleaning Power
This small device provides impressive power for its size. It’s also energy efficient, able to adjust the power as needed, in under two seconds. Using its sensors, the robot increases the suction power when it detects high-traffic areas or carpeted flooring.
This allows it to catch dust and larger debris on all surfaces, which reviewers love.
Quiet Mode
Vacuums tend to be noisy as they increase in power. This device, however, only emits 55 decibels while in use. So, if noise is a concern, this robot should meet your needs.
Consumers mention that the device is quiet enough to be used at night and during naptime. Plus, they don’t have to worry about the neighbors.
Automatic Cleaning
This robot is almost entirely independent. You’ll only need to assign “him” a task. Choose between four different modes and pre-set a vacuum time.
Using its infrared sensors, your robot will vacuum the designated floors — hardwood, but also carpeted areas. Detecting objects and drop-offs, it will avoid obstacles and more. Users enjoy that they don’t need to intervene.
Keep In Mind
Smaller Dust Container Than Other Vacuum Types
Featuring a dust box of 0.63 quarts, it might be one of the largest capacities when it comes to robot vacuums. Yet, this device’s box is sadly smaller than other products we’ve reviewed.
Still, its dust box should be large enough for small condos and apartments. If you’re cleaning a large home, though, you’ll probably need to empty the box at least once during the cleaning process. While emptying it is a fairly simple procedure, it isn’t convenient for most users.
Additional Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Robot |
| Number of Included Attachments | None |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 5.73 pounds |
| Power | 1300 Pa |
2. Dyson Cyclone Cordless Stick Vacuum
This Dyson vacuum combines ease of use, versatility, and efficiency. If you’re looking for a cordless and multi-use device, this one might be worth considering.
The advanced machine filtration allows you to pick up the tiniest dust particles as well as large pieces of debris. The filters are even washable. This convertible vacuum also includes a number of attachments.
The roller cleaner head is made with anti-static carbon fiber and soft woven nylon. This makes it safe to use on hardwood floors. It’s also designed to absorb the vibration and sound emitted while in use.
Because it’s compact, it isn’t only simple to use, but also easy to put away and store. When cleaning is over, the machine transforms into a handheld device. Plus, the dust bin can be emptied without even touching the dirt.
One other cool thing is that it comes with a docking station mountable on any wall. There, it will automatically recharge until its next use.
- Easy to maneuver.
- Strong battery.
- Versatile and convertible.
- Small dust bin.
Why We Love It
Easy to Maneuver
The overall ease of use is one the elements reviewers appreciate the most. Weighing just under 6 pounds, it’s easy to grab, clean and even lift. It’s convenient to clean stairs or carry to a different section of your home.
The large handle makes this process a breeze. This vacuum also features a 360-degree swivel function for better maneuverability.
Strong Battery
Users don’t only enjoy the cordless functionality of this device. Most also report that the battery has an up-time duration that allows them to clean their home in one go.
The soft roller cleaner is specifically designed to clean hard floors. Using this tool provides up to 40 minutes of run time.
The instant-release trigger allows saving on battery power. When it’s time to recharge, a light indicator will turn on.
Versatile and Convertible
In a click, this stick vacuum transforms into a handheld device. This allows you to spot clean when needed. It can even be used to clean inside your car.
Switch between three power modes to vacuum different types of surfaces. It will trap anything on its way. From soil, pet hair, grass, dust, to rice and cereals.
It also comes with four attachments: a crevice and combination tool, but also a mini soft dusting brush and a mini motorized head. So, you’ll be able to clean couches, keyboards, car seats, stairs, carpets, and more.
Keep In Mind
Small Dust Bin
This device is suitable for small to mid-size homes. However, many reviewers regret that the 0.8-quart capacity dust bin isn’t larger. Cleaning large homes is still doable, but you might need to empty the dust bin to complete the task.
Additional Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Stick and handheld |
| Number of Included Attachments | Four |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 5.9 pounds |
| Power | Not indicated |
3. Miele Pure Suction Canister Vacuum
Sometimes, simpler is better. If you’re not looking for a device with all the bells and whistles, this basic canister vacuum might be the right fit. The device provides the needed tools and power to clean both hardwood floors and carpets.
It includes a three-layer filter system: dust bag, motor-protection filter, and an “AirClean” filter. Combined, they ensure good filtration, leaving no chance for the dust to escape.
The dust bag can gather up to 3.7 quarts of dirt — large enough for most areas.
- Simple and easy to use.
- Hardwood protective features.
- Three attachments.
- Suction control.
- Heavy.
Why We Love It
Simple and Easy to Use
This vacuum is user-friendly, even for the most inexperienced cleaners. Reviewers enjoy the simplicity of the device. Only a few buttons and you should be off to a good start.
The stainless steel telescopic wand will adjust to your desired length. Attached to the hose, it will reach 29.5 feet. This makes it easier on your back and hands. It also allows you to reach far-away places with fewer movements.
The wheels come with a 360-degree swivel feature. It should gently stroll behind you as you’re cleaning your floors.
Hardwood Protective Features
The main floor head includes a floor-operated switch. It allows you to go from a carpet cleaning to a hardwood floor mode by turning the brushes on and off.
The small wheels are rubberized to prevent the wood from potential scratches. End-users feel comfortable using it on delicate hardwood floors and don’t report any damage.
Three Attachments
This canister vacuum also includes three accessories to extend the use of your vacuum. Attach the dusting brush to the hose to clean furniture and more delicate surfaces. The upholstery tool will help you vacuum your couch, while the crevice tool will reach tight spaces.
While upholstery and dusting brushes aren’t crucial to clean hardwood floors, users appreciate the included crevice tool. They’re able to clean along baseboards, between furniture and within corners.
Suction Control
You’ll have control over the suction power. Manually choose between six different modes. It even includes a “silent” mode if you’re prone to migraines or if your kids are napping.
Users welcome the amount of energy it helps them save. It also helps keep the electricity bill on the lower end.
Keep In Mind
Heavy
Weighing almost 15 pounds, this vacuum is on the heavy side. Some users have difficulty carrying it around the house or lifting it up a staircase. You’ll have to be extra cautious when handling the device.
Additional Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Canister |
| Number of Included Attachments | Three |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 14.8 pounds |
| Power | 1100 watts |
4. Bissell PowerEdge Hardwood Floor Vacuum
Looking for a simple tool to remove pet hair and potentially other debris from your hardwood floor? This device has been specifically designed for hardwood floors. Its unique V-shape and rubberized floor head make it perfect for this type of flooring.
Since it’s bagless, you won’t need to purchase additional dust bags. When full, simply empty the cup, rinse it and place it back in the device for further use. This compact stick vacuum should be easy to store, even in smaller homes.
- Rubberized squeegees.
- Lightweight.
- Swivel steering.
- V-shape.
- Short cord.
- Not for rugs.
Why We Love It
Rubberized Squeegees
This device features rubberized squeegees under the floor head, making it safe for the most delicate hardwood floors. The squeegees not only protect your floor, but can also catch the tiniest particles of dust.
Lightweight
When it comes to hardwood floors, your device’s weight is crucial. This vacuum has been designed with both your efforts and the floor’s safety in mind.
Weighing 7.5 pounds, you should be able to move it around fairly easily. Users report that the convenient handle makes it even easier to lift.
Swivel Steering
Another hardwood-safe feature is the swivel steering. As you don’t need to lift the machine every time you change direction, it makes the overall cleaning process faster.
This feature also considerably limits the amount of effort required and the risk of floor damage.
V-Shape
The unique V-shape design of the floor head provides a few advantages. Compared to regular floor heads, this shape cleans better along baseboards. It fits any perpendicular angles — such as around the legs of a chair or other furniture — like a glove.
This singular shape still provides a cleaning path of 11.35-inches wide. While other vacuums tend to push larger pieces of debris away, the V-shape design funnels all dirt towards the center. Many users find this shape useful as it increases overall efficiency.
Keep In Mind
Short Cord
You’d think that a device conceived for hardwood floors would have been cordless, for maneuverability. Instead, it has a 20-foot cord that seems a bit short for most users. They have to switch plugs more often than desired.
Not for Rugs
This vacuum is great at cleaning hardwood floors, but we wish it could also clean non-hard floors. Unfortunately, if you also have to vacuum carpets, you’ll need to purchase a separate device.
Additional Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Stick |
| Number of Included Attachments | None |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 7.5 pounds |
| Power | 6 amps |
5. Kenmore Pet & Allergy Friendly Upright
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty vacuum, this model might be worth checking out. Featuring a cleaning path of almost 13 inches, this vacuum is designed to clean large areas. It also comes with one of the longest cords available, at 35 feet.
This high-end device provides all the extra features to ensure a thorough clean. It comes with an LED light sensor, a HEPA filter, and several attachments. Plus, with two motors, cleaning other surfaces such as carpets should be a breeze.
- Lights and dirt sensor.
- HEPA filter.
- Five floors adjustments.
- Multi-use.
- Dust bags needed.
- Bulky and heavy.
Why We Love It
Lights and Dirt Sensor
If you’re worried about missing any dirt on your floor, this vacuum will back you up. It includes a set of two front lights, so you shouldn’t miss any spots. In case you do miss a spot, the device also comes with a sensor to let you know.
When detected, a separate LED blue light turns on until the area gets fully cleaned. This isn’t a feature found in many vacuums and users love this extra assistance.
HEPA Filter
If allergies are a cause of concern, this Kenmore vacuum should be the way to go.
It provides a three-layer filtration system and is certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (2). Its HEPA filter is able to trap 99.97 percent of dander, dirt, and pollen, leaving a cleaner air to breathe. Reviewers with respiratory conditions rave about this feature.
Five Floor Adjustments
Five positions for floor adjustments allow you to regulate the suction power depending on the surface you’re cleaning.
This makes it safer for your hardwood floors, which often don’t need strong power.
If you’re planning to vacuum carpeted areas, this device still provides 12 amps of suction power using two motors. That’s 20 percent more air power than most other upright devices.
Multi-Use
This device doesn’t only allow multi-surface floor cleaning. It also comes with a set of four attachments.
A combination tool allows easy dusting, while the “Pet Handi Mate” is designed to remove pet hair on upholstery. The crevice tool is also included and should trap dirt in tiny places.
A telescoping wand is the fourth attachment, which attaches to the included side hose. It makes the three previous tools even handier, extending your reach up to 10 feet further.
Keep In Mind
Dust Bags Needed
For anyone else, dust bags often represent an extra cost compared to dust bins. If you have allergies, though, dust bags are extra useful.
However, HEPA dust bags can be expensive to replace. Many reviewers report that they represent a significant and ongoing expense they didn’t account for.
Bulky and Heavy
Powerful devices often come with a larger footprint, and this is the case for this Kenmore vacuum.
Consumers aren’t so fond of the bulky design, which is difficult to maneuver and store. It’s also on the heavier side. At 21 pounds, it isn’t easy to move around or lift as needed.
Additional Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Upright |
| Number of Included Attachments | Four |
| HEPA Filter | Yes |
| Weight | 21 pounds |
| Power | 12 amps |
6. Bissell Zing Canister Bagless Vacuum
This economical vacuum is practical and compact with good suction power for both hard floors and other surfaces. The foot switch is easy to use. It will turn off the brushes while you’re cleaning delicate hardwood floors.
Its three-layer filtration includes a post-motor filter and dirt cup filters which can be easily removed. The filters are washable and should last as long as your vacuum if well taken care of. They catch small particles and dust into the see-through dust bin — no dust bags needed.
Most reviewers enjoy the sleek design. But if you’re worried about durability, the manufacturer even offers a one-year warranty.
- Portable.
- Easy to put away.
- Large capacity.
- All-purpose.
- Short power cord.
Why We Love It
Portability
This vacuum weighs 10 pounds, which should be liftable by most. It’s also one of the most compact canister vacuums available.
It features a wide carrying handle, so it’s easy to grab and carry. Users mention it’s the ideal device to pick up and go.
Easy to Put Away
The procedure to empty and put your device away is quick and simple. When the bin is full, remove the cylinder from the canister. A single button will empty the contents, hands-free, into your garbage.
The cord will rewind automatically into the canister, saving you both time and elbow grease. Reviewers love that functionality.
Large Capacity
You might think that this compact vacuum is only designed for tiny condos. Although small in size, it features an impressive dust bin capacity of 2 liters.
While this model might not make the cut if you own a castle, most users are happy with its volume. It should be suitable for most apartments and homes.
All-Purpose
This vacuum was built to be multi-purpose. The floor head features a large cleaning path of just over 10 inches. This width works for cleaning large surfaces without too much effort.
More importantly, this device can safely be used on hardwood floors. If you need to switch to a carpeted flooring or a rug, use the footswitch to turn on the brushes.
It also comes with the needed attachments to allow other uses. It includes a combination brush as well as a crevice tool. The 4.8-inch flexible hose can be further extended using the extension wand.
Keep In Mind
Short Power Cord
Although this vacuum is highly portable, some wished it had a longer power cord. Only 16-inches long, it might be one of the shortest cords available. Users have to constantly change plugs, which can be a frustrating experience.
Additional Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Canister |
| Number of Included Attachments | Three |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Power | 9 amps |
7. BISSELL Symphony Vac and Steam 2-in-1
Are you looking to both vacuum and sanitize your hardwood floors? This can be achieved using two separate devices, but what if you could use just one?
With this steam vacuum, you can save both storage space and money. You can skip investing in two separate cleaning devices.
Through the handle, you’ll be able to control the steam pressure and choose between high and low modes. To steam hardwood floors, we recommend using the low-steam mode. Other surfaces should be able to handle the high-steam mode.
You can also choose between vacuuming, steaming, or vacuum and steam functionalities together. For good maneuverability, the machine also includes a carrying handle.
This device includes a scrubby pad, a soft pad, and a set of vacuum filters. If you’re unsure about the quality, it comes with a two-year manufacturer warranty.
- Quick heating time.
- Vacuums and kill germs.
- Suitable for large surfaces.
- Dry floor and dust tank.
- Low vacuum power.
- Not suitable for unsealed hardwood.
Why We Love It
Quick Heating Time
If you’ve got a busy schedule, you’ll agree that the faster the cleaning time the better. A steamer can sometimes take over 10 minutes just to warm up the water.
However, this process is required before steaming. It’s also needed every time you run out of the water while cleaning. A fast warm-up time is therefore crucial for a smooth cleaning experience.
This steam vacuum warms up the water in about 30 seconds. Users report that they’re able to start cleaning almost instantly.
Vacuums and Kill Germs
Vacuum and steam work as a team here.
Vacuuming your floor will remove apparent dust and debris. Steam removes stains and marks. It also removes 99.9 percent of invisible germs and bacteria spread over the hardwood.
Reviewers love the vacuum and steam mode, cleaning and sanitizing the floor at the same time. But if you prefer focusing on one task at a time, choose the vacuum mode first. Once you’ve removed the dirt, then switch to the steam mode.
Suitable for Large Surfaces
This device comes with a 12.8-ounce water tank. End-users find it large enough to steam their entire flooring at once.
Designed to wash large surfaces, it includes a long power cord of 25 feet and a cleaning path of 11 inches.
Dry Floor and Dust Tank
Thanks to the high heat, the steam mode doesn’t leave extra moisture on the hardwood. This prevents water marks from forming and damaging the floor.
It also leaves the dust tank dry. Users mention that they have no difficulty emptying the tank as the contents are fully dry.
Keep In Mind
Low Vacuum Power
Because all good things have downsides, this vacuum comes with a lower suction power — 120 volts. This means that you might not be able to remove the larger debris and some dirt may remain uncaught.
Not Suitable for Unsealed Hardwood
Because this device uses high heat technology and creates moisture, it’s not suitable for parquet and unsealed hardwood.
The vacuuming mode can still be used, but you’d have to stay away from the steam mode. In this case, we recommend sticking to a regular vacuum.
Additional Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Steam |
| Number of Included Attachments | None |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 9.74 pounds |
| Power | 120 volts |
Detailed Comparison
| Product | Award | Type(s) | Attachments | HEPA Filter | Weight | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eufy BoostIQ | Best For Effortless Cleaning | Robot | None | No | 5.73 lbs | 240 W |
| Dyson Cyclone | Great Cordless Vacuum | Stick & handheld | 4 | No | 5.9 lbs | N/A |
| Miele Pure Suction | Fantastic Canister Option | Canister | 3 | No | 14.8 lbs | 1100 W |
| Bissell PowerEdge | Best In Design | Stick | None | No | 7.5 lbs | 720 W |
| Kenmore Upright | Best For Large Surfaces | Upright | 4 | Yes | 21 lbs | 1200 W |
| Bissell Zing | Budget-Friendly Choice | Canister | 3 | No | 10 lbs | 1140 W |
| BISSELL Symphony | Best Deep Clean Vacuum | Steam | None | No | 9.74 lbs | 400 W vacuum, 1100 W steam |
Product Guide & FAQs
Is Vacuuming Better Than Sweeping?
Although sweeping helps remove the majority of the dirt, vacuuming delivers better results.
Brooms cannot shake up the dust deposited on the outer layer of the hardwood. They also don’t clean baseboards edges and corners as well as vacuums. Plus, with brooms, kids passing by or even an open window may blow your freshly-gathered dirt around.
Finally, brooms won’t have any impact on cleaning within the cracks. The bristles will pass along the lines, leaving the dirt inside. Whereas, the best devices for hardwood floors will pick up that deep debris more successfully.
Vacuums may be a larger investment, but they make your cleaning task more efficient and effortless.
How Do I Clean a Vacuum Filter?
Vacuum filters are often simple to remove. If you have a garden or a yard, you might want to start outside.
Tap and remove the majority of dirt and dust around the filter. If you’re sensitive to dust or have allergies, place a mask or cloth around your nose and mouth.
Rinse the filter with cold-to-lukewarm water and don’t use a brush to remove the dirt as it could damage the material. Avoid using abrasive cleaning solutions. Then, air dry the filter for 24 to 48 hours before placing it back in the device.
Washing your filter is important, but don’t forget to clean your entire vacuum regularly.
Vacuuming Out
Luckily, most vacuums are suitable and designed to be used on hardwood floors. Some devices, though, are better at keeping them safe.
When it comes to selecting the best vacuum for hardwood floors, keep your preferences in mind. We recommend creating a checklist of all the uses you might need your vacuum for. This might save you lots of money and headaches down the line.
Which vacuum from this list is your favorite? Which one do you like the least? We’d love to hear your comments and feedback in the section below.
