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Everyone knows how daunting a vacuuming operation can get when it comes to hardly accessible areas and the stairs. While you do have options for tight places (such as a long narrow nozzle), stairs represent a challenge that never gets done properly.
You will have to change the position of the vacuum cleaner and the bad news is that you cannot even move it right. Your position is quite uncomfortable while moving a bulky cleaner from one side to another can become a nightmare.
At this point, it feels like old school vacuum cleaners are more efficient than those modern upright solutions. But then, no matter what challenges you face, taking your time and researching the best vacuum for stairs will most likely lead you in the right direction.
There are lots of options on the market and while you do want convenience for your stairs, you want the cleaner to be just as efficient in other areas. Some products are clearly more versatile than others, while small bells and whistles tend to make the difference.
It is imperative to know what to look for when buying a vacuum cleaner, but also to discover the best rated products in commerce.
Comparison for My Favorite Whole-House Air Purifier Products
It is one thing to find a top rated vacuum cleaner and another thing to get the ideal option for your needs. This is because what works for some people will not work for everyone else. Instead, you have to assess your personal necessities first, not to mention your expectations.
Here are some of the best rated vacuum cleaners for stairs in commerce, as well as their strongest points. They are more general and can help in a plethora of other circumstances as well, hence their popularity.
It comes with a long cord and ensures there is no pet hair left behind.
It has a pet hair attachment and a superior dust filtration system.
It comes with a motorized brush and a 20 foot long cord for flexibility.
It comes with a specialized rubber nozzle for pet hair and cyclonic suction power.
It comes with a long cord and ensures there is no pet hair left behind.
It has a pet hair attachment and a superior dust filtration system.
It comes with a motorized brush and a 20 foot long cord for flexibility.
It comes with a specialized rubber nozzle for pet hair and cyclonic suction power.
My Favorite 5 Vacuum For Stairs
#1. Shark Rocket Ultra-Light With TruePet Mini Motorized Brush
This might be the best vacuum for stairs if you want convenience. It is compact, efficient and easy to use on stairs – whether it comes to the actual stairs or the hardly accessible corners. Simply put, it makes no difference how unusually shaped your stairs are – this model will get the job done.
In terms of performance, it features the so called cyclonic technology. What does it do? Simple – it ensures the cleaner never loses its suction power. While most cleaners tend to have fluctuations, this one is consistent in its operation.
A short cord is another common problem with vacuum cleaners. You have to plug and unplug it a few times as you advance through your home. Besides, no one really has a plug right on the stairs. This unit features a 32 foot power cord, so there is no need to interrupt the cleaning procedure in the middle.
While your main purpose is to move the cleaner around to cover every area, it will also get half the job done by itself. The brush is not there for you to move only. Instead, it is also motorized to pull stubborn dirt and hair. The so called TruePet motorized brush will ensure there is no pet hair left behind.
Now, the surface of your stairs will probably raise a few question marks too. Do you need a regular vacuum cleaner if the stairs are covered with carpet? What if your stairs are not covered, but they only consist of hard flooring? No problem – the cleaner has different working modes that provide a good result regardless of the surface.
Stairs are often poorly lit, especially at corners. Forget about bringing a flashlight or turning the lights on to determine whether or not they are clean. This vacuum cleaner features 10 LED lights on the base, so you can see what you are doing.
The package is quite complete and apart from the actual cleaner, you also get a brush tool and a crevice. It comes with two foam filters. Both of them can be properly washed for maintenance.
In terms of sizing, there is not much to worry about. The design is compact and the whole unit weighs less than eight pounds. In other words, you will face no issues moving it around.
Things we like:
- Features a TruePet motorized brush for pet hair
- Comes with swivel steering for easy maneuverability
- Compact, light weight and easy to move around
- Excellent for both hard and soft flooring
Things we do not like:
- Relatively small dirt cup capacity, especially when compared to large upright vacuum cleaners
#2. BLACK+DECKER 20V Max Flex Handheld Vacuum With Pet Hair Brush
BLACK+DECKER surely knows what quality means, whether it comes to vacuum cleaners or other types of appliances. This could be the right vacuum for stairs if you want efficiency – both in terms of performance and in terms of money.
The unit was built with convenience in mind. It has a flexible wand that will help you clean any corner – you might as well do the stairs and go up towards the ceiling. It is portable and easy to move around, but also cordless. Despite the small profile, it has an impressive power.
Unlike other cordless hand held devices, this one comes with cyclonic action. This technology is more commonly found in large vacuum cleaners. It ensures the suction power is high at all times – way higher than average. Combined with the flexible hose, this model can get the job done in no time.
If you have pets, you probably know already that hand held vacuum cleaners are not that efficient. Well, your nightmare is over now. The package is full and brings in a rubberized per hair brush attachment too. It will clean your pet’s hair in no time. Other attachments include a crevice tool and a stick attachment. The stick attachment comes with a pivoting head, so you can reach any corner.
The base charges in no time. When you are done with the cleaner, simply put it in the base. The base ensures you keep the unit and all of its accessories in one place – make sure nothing gets lost.
Another improvement from classic hand held cleaners is the air filtration system. It is split over three stages. Its main role is to keep the debris, dust and fine particles from getting back into the surrounding air. On the other hand, the cyclonic system ensures all these particles are kept away from the filter.
Maintenance is fairly simple too – the bowl and filter are removable and washable.
Things we like:
- Comes with more attachment tools, including one for pet hair
- Features a base to keep everything in one place
- Superior filtration system to prevent dust from coming back into the air
- Cyclonic action for superior suction power
Things we do not like:
- Reassembling filters after cleaning can be a bit challenging
#3. Eureka EasyClean Lightweight Handheld Vacuum Cleaner
Looking for a reliable vacuum cleaner to make stair cleaning a breeze? Eureka has designed the best vacuum and it comes in two different varieties. The classic one is yellow, yet you can also find a cordless version – smaller, but equally powerful.
The unit is hand held and light weight. It weighs just under five pounds, so you should have no problems messing around with it from one step to another. It can be used on your stairs, hardly accessible areas, garage or even car. When assembled, it measures 20x12x10 inches, so it is compact as well.
Unlike other similar vacuum cleaners, this one does not rely on its suction power and your arm moving only. Instead, the brush is also motorized, so it will make cleaning more efficient. It can be carpet cleaner for stairs and remove stubborn dirt, not to mention unclogging and clearing pet hair.
The filter is integrated. The dust canister is relatively large for this segment and it is simple to remove and empty. It can be cleaned with tap water.
Since the cord measures 20 feet, you will no longer need to change the outlet every few minutes. You can even reach your car in the driveway.
Finally, the stair carpet cleaner comes with two motors. One of them is specifically designed for the brush, while the other powers the suction.
Things we like:
- Excellent for vehicles, rooms and stairs
- Comes with a motorized brush for more efficient cleaning
- Dust canister is much easier to remove, empty and wash
- Features a long 20 foot cord
Things we do not like:
- Air blows out with lots of power, which might stir up debris you have not vacuumed yet
#4. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Handheld Vacuum
Featuring a power rating of 4A and suitable for upholstery, stairs and cars, Bissell’s vacuum for stairs is less likely to disappoint you. It is compact and small, but it features an impressive power for units in this price range.
The unit comes with a multilayer filtration system. Once inside, dust and debris will never be blown out through the back. At the same time, the cyclonic cleaning system ensures a consistent and solid suction power.
The cord measures 16 feet, which means you do not have to change the outlet every few minutes. The dirt cup can take just under 0.8L of dust and debris, so you can easily do most of your house without having to empty it.
The vacuum cleaner measures 10x5x8 inches. It is up to two times smaller than other units in this segment, but surprisingly powerful for its size. It weighs just over four pounds, so it is less likely to put any strain on your arm.
What makes it so special is the specialized rubber nozzle. It brushes and attracts hair, but it also unclogs stubborn dirt for the vacuum to absorb it. All in all, the package is complete and apart from the actual cleaner, there are two specialized nozzles too.
While not really related to the performance of the vacuum cleaner, it is worth noting that every vacuum sold will help the Bissell Pet Foundation – a proprietary charity established to help homeless pets.
Things we like:
- Comes with a specialized rubber nozzle to remove stubborn dirt and pet hair
- Extremely compact and powerful for its size
- Complete package with two specialized nozzles
- Cyclonic suction power
Things we do not like:
- No rollers, so it might feel like a decent workout for elders
#5. Holife Handheld Vacuum Cordless Cleaner
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Holife may not be the most famous vacuum cleaner manufacturer in the world, but its products can certainly make your life easier. They are extremely well rated and come with excellent value for money, so they are worth some attention.
While still not a standard in this price range, the cyclonic suction power is slowly getting there. You can normally find this feature in high end products. The 6KPA standard ensures extra power and consistent performance, whether you use the cleaner in your car, the stairs or your pet’s favorite choice. To help you understand, the 6KPA suction standard is powerful enough to pick up a coin.
Another feature that you will normally find in high end hand held cleaners is the multilayer filter. In other words, once trapped inside, dust and debris will no longer be blown through the back – which makes your effort in vain.
All in all, this vacuum cleaner has three in one capabilities. In other words, there are three tools included in the package and each of them has a specific role. The crevice tool will help you reach hardly accessible areas. A dusting brush is ideal for picking up hair, not to mention delicate surfaces like upholstery. Finally, the liquid nozzle helps vacuuming spills with no problems at all – not more than three ounces though.
The vacuum cleaner is portable and cordless. You can reach any place around your household without worrying about plugs – get to your car as well. The battery will fully recharge in about three hours. It will run at full power for over 30 minutes. It should be enough to tackle more than 1,500 square feet. The charging stand is also included in the package.
Last, but not least, you will love the quiet operation. The dirt bowl is transparent, so you will know exactly when to empty it. Altogether, the unit weighs just over three pounds.
Things we like:
- Features a three in one capability and can vacuum liquids as well
- More quiet than other units in this segment
- Cordless and portable
- Can cover over 1,500 square feet with one charge
Things we do not like:
- Battery not large enough to allow cleaning an entire house
Editor Side Notes: Looking for a good microfibers to help you clean up your stairs properly? here is a guide on the best microfiber towels that can do everything interms of cleaning the surface or removes dirt properly.
What To Look For In The Best Vacuum For Stairs
Before getting to spend your money and decide on the best vacuums for stairs, make sure you know what kind of features to look for.
Cleaning performance
Most of the performance is in the suction power. However, the suction power should also be properly delivered to whatever tool you use for the stairs. For example, an upright cleaner is excellent for stairs with the floor head, but the power is dramatically reduced through a hose.
It might be clever to invest in a cleaner with a motorized tool, which will also stir up debris and hair before picking it up. It is ideal for stubborn dirt and pet hair.
Portability
If the vacuum cleaner is heavy and you have 20 steps, chances are the cleaning procedure will feel like a proper arm workout. Since you will need to move it so often and reach from one corner to another, you definitely need a portable unit.
At this point, you have to get a portable unit. It must be lightweight – with or without a cord. Find a balance between power and a compact profile.
Battery life
If you only want to use the cleaner for stairs, the battery life is irrelevant because most units will be able to deliver. But then, chances are you will use it for other areas of your house too – maybe the car as well, not to mention your pet’s favorite sofa.
This is when the battery life becomes a priority.
Cleaning radius
Unless you get a cordless vacuum cleaner, you will have to pay attention to the cord length too. If it has a hose, consider that aspect as well. Longer is better, as you will be able to clean surfaces much faster and without having to use extension cords or change the plug every few minutes.
A short cord might mean cleaning from the top of the stairs, then plugging it in at the bottom and start all over again. It is only a matter of frustration and inconvenience.
Edge capabilities
The edge cleaning capability is often overlooked. No one really pays attention to the edge of your steps, mostly because lots of dirt is on the actual steps and not on the edges. But then, stairs covered in carpet will also require attention on the edges too.
Tools
Pay attention to everything that is included in the package. A motorized tool is, indeed, extremely helpful, but do you need anything else? How about hardwood flooring? Do you have any pets? How about some hardly accessible areas that could do with a crevice tool? The more tools you have in the package, the most cost efficient and versatile your vacuum cleaner will be.
Wrap Up
In the end, deciding on the best vacuum for stairs should not be such a difficult task. Make sure you understand what you need – hard flooring or carpeted stairs, lots of plugs around or the necessity of a cordless device – and make this decision with your personal expectations in mind.
Each of the above mentioned products can deliver an excellent result – just pay attention to small bells and whistles that make the difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding a vacuum for stairs may not look like the most sophisticated job in the world, but there will be a few aspects that require some extra help. Here are the most common concerns about cleaners.
Which vacuum cleaner is best for stairs?
Any of the above mentioned products will get the job done. As long as the cleaner comes with a motorized tool or a small tool for your stairs, it will work. Make sure it is portable and light weight too – everything else is only about convenience.
What is the easiest way to vacuum stairs?
Ideally, you should start from the top. As you vacuum, some of the dirt will be blown or pushed down the stairs. If you start from the bottom, the dirt from the top steps may come down on the steps that you have already cleaned. Therefore, start at the top and finish at the bottom.
What is the best way to clean carpeted stairs?
Carpeted stairs require more attention than hardwood stairs because carpet can trap dirt in. Apart from stubborn dirt, you may also have to deal with pet hair. At this point, a motorized tool could make the difference between an efficient cleaning procedure and lots of frustration.
How do you vacuum stairs with shark lift away?
You will need one hand to keep the vacuum cleaner and another one to actually move the hose around the stairs. The operation is pretty straightforward and does not require any training. You can also leave the vacuum cleaner on a step, but you will have to move it every few steps.
