Our pros loved this Kenmore option, not only just for how well it picked up fur, but also for its ability to suck up embedded dust and dirt. The vacuum's 2-motor system and Power Flow technology ensures you won't lose suction, and no debris will ever be left behind, so you'll get a clean finish every time. When you're finished, the cord automatically rewinds for easy storage.
This Good Housekeeping Seal star won our pros over with its powerful suction—it features a 1,200-W vortex motor. It will glide over soft carpet, but it's equally adept at cleaning smooth surfaces. Soft bristles make it ideal for high-quality, delicate flooring. Another bonus? Allergy-friendly bags.
If you don’t want to keep stock of extra bags and filters, stick with this pick from Dyson. Thanks to Dyson Cinectic science, you'll never have to wash or change a filter. The hygienic dirt ejector drives out trapped dust and dust as you empty it, so you'll never have to touch the dirt.
For smaller jobs, choose the Oreck Pro 5, which weight just 5 pounds (the lightest of our picks). It's extremely versatile, and be used on hard floors as well as carpet. When you're done vacuuming, this one can also double as a blower to clear out debris (particularly handy in the garage!).
Apartment-dwellers or college students should stick with this compact model that's easy to store. Auto shut-off protects it against overheating, while a deluxe floor brush and powerful brush rolls make it versatile to clean carpets and smooth surfaces. It's so lightweight and compact, you can pick it up and carry it around easily enough, and no matter how little closet space you have available, you'll be able to squeeze it in.
Lindsey works with the Good Housekeeping Institute to test and review products including appliances, bedding, baby items, pet products and more.
Sienna is a Deputy Editor at Hearst, where she oversees coverage of style, beauty, lifestyle, and more. She lives in California with her husband and two littles.
