Does the thought of cleaning your floors fill you with dread, especially when you imagine the cost of a good vacuum cleaner? You’re not alone! Many people want a clean home, but the price tags on powerful vacuums can be shocking. It feels like you have to choose between a spotless house and a happy wallet.
Finding the “cheapest vacuum” isn’t just about the lowest price. It’s about getting the most bang for your buck. You want a vacuum that actually works well, lasts a long time, and doesn’t break the bank. This can feel like a treasure hunt with too many confusing choices. What if a cheaper vacuum just doesn’t pick up dirt? What if it breaks after only a few uses?
But what if we told you that you *can* have a clean home without spending a fortune? This guide is here to help. We’ll explore smart ways to find a vacuum that’s both affordable and effective. You’ll learn what features really matter and where to find the best deals. Get ready to discover how to achieve sparkling floors without emptying your pockets!
Our Top 5 And Cheapest Vacuum Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 And Cheapest Vacuum Detailed Reviews
1. Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum with Crevice Tool
Rating: 9.2/10
The Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum, model 2033M in black, is a handy tool for keeping your home tidy. It’s designed to be powerful and super easy to use, making quick cleanups a breeze. This vacuum works well on different surfaces like hard floors and carpets. It’s also very versatile, acting as three vacuums in one: a stick vacuum, a handheld vacuum, and even a stair vacuum. The included crevice tool helps you get into tight spots, and the floor nozzle is great for stairs. You can use it to clean sealed hard floors, low-pile carpets, and even countertops. It holds 0.67 liters of dirt, which is good for everyday messes. Its dual-action design means it tackles both hard floors and surface dirt on rugs effectively.
What We Like:
- It’s powerful for its size, making quick cleanups easy.
- It’s incredibly versatile, transforming into three different vacuum types.
- Using it is simple and straightforward, perfect for everyday tasks.
- The crevice tool is excellent for reaching those hard-to-get areas.
- It’s lightweight and easy to carry around the house.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dirt cup capacity is a bit small, so it might need frequent emptying for larger jobs.
- It’s best suited for quick cleanups rather than deep cleaning an entire house.
- While good on low-pile carpet, it might struggle with thicker carpets.
This Bissell Featherweight vacuum is a fantastic choice for quick messes and everyday tidiness. It offers great convenience and versatility for various cleaning needs around your home.
2. Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum
Rating: 8.6/10
Living in a dorm or a small apartment means you need cleaning tools that work hard without taking up a lot of space. The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, model 3508, is designed just for that! It’s super light, weighing less than 8 pounds, so you can easily carry it from room to room or even up and down stairs. Plus, it packs a punch with powerful suction, making quick work of everyday messes. And if you’re worried about pet hair, you’ll be happy to know that every Bissell purchase helps save homeless pets through the BISSELL Pet Foundation!
What We Like:
- Every purchase saves pets. Bissell proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- Scatter-free technology. It captures messes on hard floors with less scatter, which is a lifesaver for quick cleanups.
- Powerful suction. You get convenient, powerful cleaning in one machine.
- Lightweight and maneuverable. It weighs less than 8 pounds, so it’s easy to transport and use.
- Easy empty dirt container. You can dispose of debris with a push of a button.
- The removable extension wand is great for reaching tricky spots.
What Could Be Improved:
- For larger homes, a wider cleaning path might be preferred.
- The dustbin capacity might require frequent emptying for very large messes.
This vacuum is a fantastic option for anyone needing a compact and effective cleaning solution. It’s powerful, easy to handle, and even helps animals in need.
3. Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of bulky vacuums? The Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner is a lightweight champion for tackling everyday messes. Its dark black finish adds a sleek touch to your cleaning routine. This vacuum is designed to make cleaning quick and easy, whether you’re dealing with pet hair or just everyday dust.
What We Like:
- The 3-in-1 design is super handy. You can change it up to fit what you need to clean.
- It only weighs 4 pounds! This makes it really easy to carry around your house.
- The swivel steering helps you move around furniture easily. It cleans better than regular stick vacuums.
- Its special nozzle grabs big pieces of dirt without pushing them around.
- It cleans up dust and dirt from different floors. Your home will feel fresh.
- The strong motor picks up tiny things like dust and pollen.
- The washable filter traps dirt and makes the air cleaner.
- A long 18-foot cord means you don’t have to switch outlets often.
- The big dust cup means fewer trips to empty it.
- It has a 9.44-inch cleaning path, so it covers a good amount of space.
- The packaging is safe and good for the environment. It’s frustration-free!
What Could Be Improved:
- While great for everyday messes, it might not be powerful enough for deep carpet cleaning.
- The dust cup, while large for a stick vac, may need emptying more often for very large cleaning jobs.
Overall, the Eureka Blaze is a fantastic choice for quick cleanups and keeping your hard floors spotless. It’s an affordable and effective tool for keeping your home tidy.
4. Amazon Basics 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of lugging around heavy vacuums? The Amazon Basics 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner offers a lightweight and versatile solution for your cleaning needs. This handy vacuum easily transforms from a stick vacuum to a handheld one, making it perfect for tackling messes on floors, furniture, and even tight spaces. Its powerful 300W motor picks up dirt and debris effectively, while the HEPA filter helps keep your air clean.
What We Like:
- It’s a 2-in-1 design that switches from stick to handheld mode, making it super versatile.
- The handheld mode is great for cleaning upholstery, countertops, and stairs.
- The 300W motor provides strong suction for hard floors and low-pile carpets.
- A washable HEPA filter traps 99.97% of tiny particles, improving air quality.
- It’s incredibly lightweight at only 3.9 pounds, so it’s easy to carry and use for a long time.
- The self-standing design and built-in cord wrap make it easy to store.
What Could Be Improved:
- This vacuum isn’t the best choice for high-pile carpets or thick rugs.
For quick cleanups and everyday messes on suitable surfaces, this Amazon Basics vacuum is a solid and affordable option. Its lightweight design and dual functionality make cleaning less of a chore.
5. Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floors
Rating: 8.6/10
The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is a handy tool for keeping your home clean. It’s designed to work on both carpets and hard floors, so you can tackle messes anywhere. This vacuum comes with special tools to reach tough spots and clean furniture. Plus, it’s light and easy to move around.
What We Like:
- It’s super light at only 8.4 pounds, making it easy to carry and push around your house.
- The long 25-foot cord means you can clean large areas without having to stop and plug it into a different outlet.
- It comes with handy tools for cleaning furniture (upholstery tool) and getting into small spaces (crevice tool).
- The handle can be detached, which makes it even more versatile for different cleaning tasks.
- The dust cup is pretty big (1.7L), so you won’t have to empty it very often.
- Emptying the dust cup is simple with a quick-release button.
- The filter can be washed and reused, saving you money and helping the vacuum work well for a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for everyday cleaning, it might not be powerful enough for very deep carpet cleaning or extremely dirty situations.
- The 720W motor is okay for basic tasks, but stronger vacuums often have higher wattage.
This vacuum is a solid choice for most homes. It makes cleaning simple and convenient for your daily needs.
Finding Your Cheapest Vacuum: A Smart Shopper’s Guide
Picking a vacuum cleaner doesn’t have to break the bank. Many affordable vacuums offer great cleaning power for everyday messes. This guide will help you find a vacuum that’s both cheap and cheerful, making your cleaning routine easier.
Why Choose a “Cheapest Vacuum”?
Sometimes, the most expensive option isn’t always the best for your needs. A “cheapest vacuum” often means a budget-friendly model that still gets the job done. These vacuums are perfect for small apartments, quick cleanups, or if you’re just starting out. You can save money without sacrificing a clean home.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a budget vacuum, focus on these important features:
Suction Power
Good suction is crucial. It pulls dirt, dust, and pet hair from your floors and carpets. Look for vacuums that mention strong suction, even if they don’t have fancy specs. A powerful motor means a cleaner home.
Type of Vacuum
- Upright Vacuums: These are good for larger areas and carpets. They stand tall and have a wide cleaning path.
- Canister Vacuums: These have a separate motor unit and a hose. They are often lighter and better for stairs and furniture.
- Stick Vacuums: These are lightweight and great for quick cleanups. They are also good for hard floors and low-pile carpets.
- Handheld Vacuums: Perfect for small messes, car interiors, and upholstery. They are very portable.
Bagged vs. Bagless
- Bagged: You replace a bag when it’s full. This can be cleaner for people with allergies because the dust stays trapped.
- Bagless: These have a dustbin you empty. It’s more eco-friendly and saves you money on replacement bags. Just make sure to clean the filter regularly.
Filtration System
A good filter traps tiny particles like dust and allergens. Most budget vacuums have basic filters. If you have allergies or pets, look for vacuums with HEPA-lite or multi-stage filtration. This helps keep the air you breathe cleaner.
Weight and Maneuverability
You’ll be carrying and pushing the vacuum. A lighter model is easier to move around furniture and up stairs. Look for vacuums with swivel steering, which makes them easier to turn.
Important Materials
The materials used in a vacuum can affect its durability and performance.
Plastic Components
Most budget vacuums use durable plastics. Look for sturdy-feeling plastic that doesn’t seem brittle. Higher-quality plastics will last longer.
Brush Roll
The brush roll agitates carpet to loosen dirt. Some cheaper vacuums might have a simpler brush roll. For pet hair, a brush roll that’s designed to prevent tangles is a big plus.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Even on a budget, some things make a vacuum better or worse.
What Makes a Vacuum Better?
- Strong Motor: A powerful motor means better suction.
- Good Attachments: Crevice tools and upholstery brushes help clean tight spots and furniture.
- Easy Maintenance: Vacuums that are easy to clean and maintain will last longer.
What Can Reduce Quality?
- Flimsy Construction: If parts feel loose or cheap, the vacuum might not last long.
- Poor Suction: If the vacuum doesn’t pick up dirt well, it’s not doing its job.
- Overheating: Some budget models can overheat with prolonged use.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your vacuum matters.
Everyday Cleaning
For daily dust and crumbs, a lightweight stick vacuum or a small upright is perfect. They are easy to grab and use for quick cleanups.
Pet Owners
If you have pets, look for vacuums with good suction and brush rolls that handle pet hair well. Bagless models with easy-to-empty bins are convenient.
Small Spaces
Apartments and smaller homes benefit from compact and lightweight vacuums. Handheld or stick vacuums are great choices.
Deep Cleaning Carpets
For deeper carpet cleaning, an upright vacuum with a strong motor and a good brush roll will be more effective.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the most important feature in a cheap vacuum?
A: Strong suction power is the most important feature. It ensures the vacuum effectively picks up dirt and debris from your floors.
Q: Are bagless vacuums better than bagged vacuums for a budget?
A: Bagless vacuums can be more cost-effective in the long run because you don’t need to buy replacement bags. However, bagged vacuums can be cleaner for allergy sufferers.
Q: How do I know if a cheap vacuum has good suction?
A: Look for descriptions that mention a powerful motor or “strong suction.” Reading user reviews can also give you an idea of how well it picks up dirt.
Q: Can a cheap vacuum clean pet hair?
A: Yes, many affordable vacuums can handle pet hair. Look for models specifically designed for pet owners or those with strong suction and good brush rolls.
Q: Are lightweight vacuums as effective as heavier ones?
A: Lightweight vacuums are great for ease of use and quick cleanups. While some heavy-duty vacuums might have more power for very deep cleaning, many lightweight models are very effective for everyday tasks.
Q: What kind of maintenance do cheap vacuums need?
A: Most vacuums need regular cleaning of filters and emptying of dustbins. For bagless models, cleaning the filter is especially important to maintain suction.
Q: How long should I expect a cheap vacuum to last?
A: The lifespan depends on the build quality and how well you maintain it. With proper care, a good budget vacuum can last several years.
Q: Are there any specific brands known for good cheap vacuums?
A: Brands like Bissell, Eureka, and Hoover often offer affordable and reliable vacuum cleaner options. It’s always good to check reviews for specific models.
Q: Can I use a cheap vacuum on all floor types?
A: Most budget vacuums are designed to work on both hard floors and carpets. However, some might be better suited for one type over the other. Check the product description.
Q: Is it worth buying a cheap vacuum if I have a large house?
A: For a large house, you might consider a slightly more powerful or larger capacity vacuum if your budget allows. However, a good cheap vacuum can still work, you might just need to do more frequent cleanups.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!