Does the thought of a sparkling clean floor fill you with joy, but the price tag on most vacuums make your wallet weep? You’re not alone! Finding a vacuum cleaner that actually works well without costing a fortune can feel like searching for a unicorn. It’s tough because so many cheap vacuums just push dirt around or break after a few uses. You want a clean house, but you don’t want to spend all your hard-earned money on a cleaning tool.
But what if we told you that you *can* get a great vacuum for under $100? It’s true! In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of budget-friendly vacuums. We’ll show you what to look for, what to avoid, and highlight some of the best options available right now. Get ready to discover vacuums that will make your floors shine without emptying your pockets.
By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear idea of which vacuums are worth your money and why. We’ll break down the features that matter most, so you can confidently choose the perfect vacuum cleaner to tackle dust bunnies and debris, all while keeping your budget happy.
Our Top 5 Vacuum Under $100 Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Vacuum Under $100 Detailed Reviews
1. Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum
Rating: 8.5/10
The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum is a fantastic cleaning tool for smaller living spaces like dorm rooms and apartments. It’s super light, weighing less than 8 pounds, making it a breeze to move around. Don’t let its size fool you; this vacuum packs a powerful punch with strong suction to tackle everyday messes. Plus, it comes with a handy removable extension wand that helps you reach tricky spots.
What We Like:
- Saves Pets: Every purchase helps the BISSELL Pet Foundation save homeless pets.
- Scatter-Free Technology: It cleans hard floors without spreading dirt everywhere.
- Powerful Suction: It offers strong cleaning power in a compact design.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: At under 8 pounds, it’s easy to carry and use.
- Easy Empty Dirt Container: You can get rid of the dirt with just one button press.
- Removable Extension Wand: This lets you clean hard-to-reach areas easily.
What Could Be Improved:
- Its smaller size might mean less capacity for very large cleaning jobs.
- While powerful for its size, it may not be ideal for deep cleaning very large homes or thick carpets.
Overall, this Bissell vacuum is a smart choice for anyone needing a lightweight and effective cleaner for their dorm or apartment. It makes cleaning easier and helps a great cause.
2. Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum with Crevice Tool
Rating: 8.7/10
Meet the Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum, model 2033M in sleek black. This vacuum is designed to make your cleaning tasks quick and easy. It’s powerful suction is perfect for picking up messes on many surfaces. Plus, it’s super convenient and simple to operate.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly lightweight, making it easy to carry around your home.
- This vacuum is very versatile. It works as a stick vacuum, a hand vacuum, and even a stair vacuum.
- It comes with a crevice tool that’s great for cleaning furniture.
- The floor nozzle is handy for cleaning stairs.
- It cleans hard floors really well.
- It also picks up surface dirt from carpets and area rugs.
- It’s easy to use on countertops and sealed hard floors.
- It handles low pile carpet effectively.
- The bagless design means no bags to buy or replace.
- The dirt cup capacity is 0.67 liters, which is decent for quick cleanups.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful for its size, it might not be ideal for deep cleaning thick carpets.
- The dirt cup capacity is on the smaller side, so you might need to empty it often for larger messes.
This Bissell vacuum is a fantastic tool for everyday cleaning needs. It offers great convenience and versatility for keeping your floors and furniture tidy.
3. Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum with Quick Release Wand
Rating: 8.6/10
The Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum (model 3437F) is a fantastic cleaning tool designed for smaller living spaces. It packs a punch with full-size power but stays conveniently compact, making it ideal for apartments and dorm rooms. You can tackle everyday messes with ease, and its lightweight design ensures cleaning doesn’t feel like a chore.
What We Like:
- It’s super lightweight, weighing in at only 10 lbs. This makes it easy to carry and maneuver around your home.
- You get the power of a full-size vacuum in a compact package. It cleans effectively without being bulky.
- The Scatter-Free Technology is a game-changer for hard floors. It picks up dirt without sending it flying everywhere.
- The Quick Release Extension Wand is handy. You can reach high places or tight spots easily.
- Every purchase helps save pets! Bissell supports the Bissell Pet Foundation, which is a great cause.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s powerful for its size, it might not be the best choice for very large homes with deep carpets.
- The dustbin capacity is smaller due to its compact nature, meaning you might need to empty it more often during big cleaning sessions.
Overall, if you need a powerful yet easy-to-handle vacuum for your apartment or dorm, this Bissell is an excellent option. Its portability and effective cleaning make it a winner.
4. Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering
Rating: 9.4/10
Conquer pet messes with the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum. This vacuum is built tough for pet owners. It makes cleaning up after your furry friends a breeze. Plus, every purchase helps save pets through the Bissell Pet Foundation.
What We Like:
- Swivel steering lets you easily clean around furniture and tight spots.
- The Triple Action Brush Roll effectively lifts embedded pet hair from carpets.
- Scatter-Free Technology keeps dry pet messes from flying around on hard floors.
- Edge-to-edge cleaning means you can reach corners and along walls.
- The large dirt tank means fewer trips to empty it.
- Emptying the dirt tank is simple and mess-free.
- It has a carry handle for easy transport.
- An airflow indicator lets you know when the tank is full or there’s a clog.
- Buying this vacuum helps save homeless pets.
What Could Be Improved:
- The hose and attachments might be a bit short for reaching high places.
- While powerful, some users might find it a bit heavy for very large homes.
Overall, the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel is a strong contender for any pet-loving household. It effectively tackles pet hair and makes cleaning more manageable.
5. Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Carpet and Floor
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of lugging around heavy vacuums? The Eureka NEU10AE5 is here to make cleaning a breeze! This blue, bagless upright vacuum is super light, weighing in at just 7.7 pounds, making it easy to carry from room to room. It tackles dirt and pet hair on both carpets and hard floors with its powerful AirSpeed technology. Plus, it comes with handy tools to reach those tricky spots.
What We Like:
- It’s incredibly lightweight, making it easy to move and store.
- The 10.5-inch cleaning path means you can clean big areas faster.
- It comes with a crevice tool and dusting brush for cleaning furniture and corners.
- The filter is washable, saving you money and helping the environment.
- All the tools snap right onto the vacuum, so they’re always there when you need them.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, it might not have the same deep-cleaning power as larger, heavier vacuums for very thick carpets.
- The 10.5-inch cleaning path is good for most homes, but larger homes might require more passes.
This vacuum is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a lightweight, effective, and easy-to-maintain cleaning solution.
Your Guide to Finding a Great Vacuum Under $100
Finding a good vacuum doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. You can get a reliable vacuum for less than $100. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a vacuum under $100, keep these important features in mind:
Suction Power
Good suction is key. It pulls dirt and debris from carpets and floors. Look for vacuums that mention strong suction or have good reviews about picking up messes.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Bagless vacuums have a canister you empty. Bagged vacuums use disposable bags. Bagless is usually cheaper long-term, but bagged vacuums can be better for people with allergies because they trap dust better.
Attachments and Tools
Many vacuums come with extra tools. These can be for cleaning stairs, furniture, or tight corners. A crevice tool is great for edges. A brush roll can help with pet hair.
Cord Length
A longer cord means you can clean more without switching outlets. Look for cords that are at least 15-20 feet long.
Weight and Maneuverability
You want a vacuum that’s easy to move. Lighter vacuums are easier to carry upstairs or around furniture. Check the weight if you can.
2. Important Materials
The materials used can affect how long your vacuum lasts and how well it works.
Plastic Quality
Most vacuums use plastic. Higher-quality plastic feels sturdier and is less likely to crack. Look for vacuums with good build quality in reviews.
Brush Roll Materials
The brush roll has bristles that agitate carpet. Bristles made of nylon are common. Some have softer bristles for delicate floors. Good brush rolls help lift dirt.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some things make a vacuum better, while others can make it less effective.
Good Filtration Systems
A good filter traps tiny dust particles. This makes the air cleaner. HEPA filters are the best for trapping allergens. Even basic vacuums should have some form of filtration.
Durability and Build
A well-built vacuum will last longer. Read reviews to see if people report parts breaking easily. Simple designs are often more durable.
Motor Strength
The motor powers the suction. A stronger motor usually means better cleaning. While you can’t always tell motor strength from specs, reviews can give you clues.
Ease of Maintenance
Can you easily clean the filters or brush roll? Vacuums that are hard to maintain might not work as well over time.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you will use the vacuum.
Pet Owners
If you have pets, look for vacuums with good suction and tools for pet hair. Brush rolls designed for pet hair are very helpful.
Apartment Dwellers
For smaller spaces, a lightweight and compact vacuum is ideal. Stick vacuums or smaller uprights work well.
Homeowners with Carpets and Hard Floors
Some vacuums work better on carpets, others on hard floors. Look for vacuums that can adjust or have settings for different floor types.
By keeping these points in mind, you can find a great vacuum cleaner that fits your budget and cleans your home effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most important feature in a vacuum under $100?
A: Strong suction power is the most important feature. It helps the vacuum pick up dirt and debris effectively.
Q: Are bagless vacuums better than bagged vacuums for my budget?
A: Bagless vacuums can be more cost-effective long-term because you don’t need to buy replacement bags. However, bagged vacuums can be better for allergy sufferers.
Q: What kind of attachments are usually included with budget vacuums?
A: You might find crevice tools for tight spaces, dusting brushes, and sometimes upholstery tools. These help clean different surfaces.
Q: How important is the cord length on a vacuum?
A: A longer cord allows you to clean larger areas without having to unplug and replug the vacuum as often.
Q: Should I worry about the weight of a vacuum under $100?
A: Yes, a lighter vacuum is easier to carry and maneuver around your home, especially if you have stairs.
Q: What does “filtration system” mean for a vacuum?
A: A filtration system traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum, helping to clean the air you breathe.
Q: Can I find vacuums with HEPA filters for under $100?
A: It’s less common, but some models might offer HEPA-like filtration. Look closely at the product details.
Q: What if I have pets? What should I look for?
A: Look for vacuums with strong suction and specialized brush rolls designed to pick up pet hair.
Q: How can I tell if a budget vacuum is good quality?
A: Read customer reviews. People often share their experiences with durability and how well the vacuum cleans.
Q: Will a vacuum under $100 clean my whole house effectively?
A: Yes, many budget vacuums can clean small to medium-sized homes very well, especially if you choose one suited for your floor types.
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!