7 Best Vacuum Cleaners for Hardwood Floors, According to Lab Tests
Our top pick is Miele's Boost CX1 Parquet Canister Vacuum.
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Hardwood floors are a timeless design choice — and a practical one too. They’re easier to clean than carpet, especially when you have a vacuum designed specifically for hard surfaces.
At the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, we’ve tested hundreds of vacuums to find the ones that truly perform. Each model is evaluated for how well it picks up debris and pet hair (without tangling), how efficient its filtration system is and how easy it is to use.
When it comes to the best vacuums for hardwood floors, our top picks include everything from lightweight cordless stick vacuums to hands-free robot vacuums, all from trusted brands like Miele and Dyson. Whether you’re deep-cleaning or doing a quick once-over, these vacuums can help you keep your floors spotless without scattering dust or, worse, scratching.
Miele Boost CX1 Parquet Canister Vacuum
Pros
- Excellent suction
- Great maneuverability
- Parquet brush won't scratch wood floors
Cons
- Some users have a hard time pushing it on carpet
Weight: 13.8 lbs | Cord Length: 22 ft | Bag or Bagless: Bagless | Run Time: N/A | Dust Cup Capacity: 1 L | HEPA Filter: Yes
WHY WE LIKE IT: Miele vacuums are known for their top-tier performance, and the Boost CX1 is no exception. This sleek, compact canister vacuum stands out for both its design and suction power, earning a spot in our list of best canister vacuums. It features a universal floor head that easily switches between carpet and hardwood floors with the flip of a switch — no need to swap attachments mid-clean. For those who want to be extra gentle on their wood floors, it also includes a dedicated parquet brush.
We also like that it’s a bagless model with a Hygiene AirClean filter, which traps fine dust and allergens inside the canister. It’s a great pick for anyone with allergies or sensitivities, offering a deeper clean without recirculating particles back into your home. On the downside, some users say the vacuum doesn’t glide over carpet as smoothly as they’d hoped.
TESTING NOTES: In our Lab evaluations, the Boost CX1 performed especially well on hardwood floors and carpets, picking up dry oats with ease. It didn't push debris forward, either, which is a common issue in similar models.
Pros
- Air-powered soft brush helps protect floors
- Multiple levels of filtration
Cons
- Lacks a HEPA filter
Weight: 13.8 lbs | Cord Length: 18 ft | Bag or Bagless: Bagless | Run Time: N/A | Dust Cup Capacity: 2 L | HEPA Filter: No
WHY WE LIKE IT: Bissell vacuums are top performers in our Cleaning Lab tests, and this compact canister vacuum delivers excellent performance at a budget-friendly price. It’s designed specifically with hard floors in mind, thanks to a unique air-powered soft brush that gently sweeps particles from crevices without scratching delicate surfaces. The lightweight body makes it easy to carry from room to room, and the large 2-liter dirt tank is simple to empty — just pop it open from the bottom to avoid a mess and limit dust from re-entering the air.
While it doesn’t have a HEPA filter, it still offers multiple levels of filtration, which is a welcome addition for allergy-prone households.
TESTING NOTES: In our evaluations, we were impressed by how well the soft brush handled fine debris and crumbs on hardwood without scattering or scratching. The easy-to-empty tank and lightweight frame added to its user-friendliness, making it a solid option for anyone who wants powerful performance without the premium price tag.
Shark Stratos Upright Vacuum
Pros
- HEPA filter
- Converts from an upright to a stick
Cons
- On the heavier side
Weight: 17.2 lbs | Cord Length: 30 ft | Bag or Bagless: Bagless | Run Time: N/A | Dust Cup Capacity: 4 L | HEPA Filter: Yes
WHY WE LIKE IT: Shark makes reliable, user-friendly vacuums that regularly perform well in our Cleaning Lab tests, and this model stands out for hardwood floors in particular. It features a dual brush system — a standard bristle brush and a soft roller — that’s tough on debris but gentle on delicate flooring. We also appreciate the odor-neutralizing technology in the dust bin, which is a thoughtful touch for pet owners.
The vacuum’s versatility is another major plus. It easily converts from an upright to a stick vacuum and even transforms into a portable canister for tackling stairs or hard-to-reach spaces. A sealed body and built-in HEPA filter help trap dust and allergens, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.
TESTING NOTES: This vacuum was highly effective on hardwood floors during testing, picking up debris without scattering or scratching the surface. We also found the convertible design especially convenient for switching between deep cleans and quick pickups, though it is a bit heavier than other models — over four pounds more than our best overall pick.
RELATED: The Best Shark Vacuums
Dyson V12 Detect Slim Cordless Vacuum
Pros
- Light on the bare floor head makes dust easier to see
- Attachments are very useful
Cons
- Doesn't include a second battery
Weight: 5.2 lbs | Cord Length: N/A | Bag or Bagless: Bagless | Run Time: 60 minutes | Dust Cup Capacity: 0.35 L | HEPA Filter: Yes
WHY WE LIKE IT: Dyson’s V12 Detect is packed with high-tech features that make cleaning hardwood floors highly effective. The brush roll uses a combination of soft nylon and anti-static carbon fiber filaments to whisk away dust without scratching delicate surfaces. One of our favorite features is the front-facing laser light, which illuminates even the tiniest dust particles, so you can see exactly what you're picking up. The digital display takes it a step further, showing the size and amount of particles being collected, along with battery life and run time.
It comes with a range of handy attachments, including a cone-shaped tool that’s especially good at lifting pet hair. The detangling brush bar also prevents long strands from getting wrapped around the roller.
TESTING NOTES: In our Lab, the V12 Detect performed exceptionally well on hardwood floors, picking up fine dust and debris with ease. The laser made it easier to target spots that would otherwise be missed, and the vacuum delivered powerful suction for up to 60 minutes on a full charge. Our only gripe: It only comes with one battery, and backups can be hard to find. If you’re cleaning a larger space, be prepared to pause for a recharge.
RELATED: The Best Dyson Vacuums
Kenmore Pet Friendly Pop-N-Go Canister Vacuum
Pros
- Hardwood floor brush stored in canister
- HEPA filter
Cons
- Very heavy
Weight: 24 lbs | Cord Length: 26 ft | Bag or Bagless: Bag | Run Time: N/A | Dust Cup Capacity: N/A | HEPA Filter: Yes
WHY WE LIKE IT: This canister vac is a powerhouse cleaning tool — especially for homes with pets and a mix of flooring types. While it’s on the heavier side at 24 pounds, it makes up for the bulk with its impressive versatility and built-in features. A dedicated hardwood floor brush lives right inside the canister and pops out at the press of a button, so you’re never digging around for the right attachment mid-clean.
This model also comes with a motorized Pet PowerMate tool that makes it easy to tackle upholstery and pet hair with the same machine. And because it’s a bagged vacuum with a true HEPA filter, it helps keep dust and allergens contained for allergy sufferers.
TESTING NOTES: In our evaluations, this vacuum glided smoothly over both carpet and hardwood floors, thanks to its large wheels and flexible hose. It picked up dry oats quickly across all floor types and left little to no debris behind after just a few passes.
RELATED: The Best Vacuums for Pet Hair
Pros
- Easy to setup, use and clean
- Excellent self-cleaning mode
- Does not leave behind a ton of water residue
- Cleans dry and wet spills quickly
Cons
- The roller brush isn't as long as others
Weight: 11 lbs | Cord Length: 26 ft | Bag or Bagless: Bagless | Run Time: 50 minutes | Dust Cup Capacity: N/A | HEPA Filter: No
WHY WE LIKE IT: While it's a bit of an investment (before sales), this vacuum-mop combo is a top-performer in our Lab tests, thanks to an upgraded self-cleaning system — with both hot water and hot air — that ensures the roller stays fresh and hygienic between uses.
The vacuum mop also lies completely flat, making it easier to clean under low furniture, and the built-in battery indicator on the handle helps you stay on top of charging mid-clean. We also appreciated the built-in strainer that separates solids from liquids, which makes cleanup a breeze.
TESTING NOTES: In Lab tests, this vacuum mop impressed us with its ability to pick up both milk and cereal spills. After just two passes, most of the mess was gone, and a few more swipes cleared the remaining residue. It left behind only a thin, almost undetectable level of water — key for protecting hardwood floors from excess moisture. While the roller is a bit shorter than other models we tested, the unit was still easy to maneuver, and simple controls (two for cleaning modes, one for self-cleaning) made operation feel intuitive.
RELATED: The Best Vacuum Mops
Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum
Pros
- Powerful suction
- Automatically adjusts suction
Cons
- Cannot self-empty
Weight: 9.9 lbs | Cord Length: N/A | Bag or Bagless: Bagless | Run Time: 65 minutes | Dust Cup Capacity: .13 gallons | HEPA Filter: No
WHY WE LIKE IT: The Dyson 360 Vis Nav is one of the sleeker, more compact robot vacuums on the market, but it doesn’t skimp on high-end features. In addition to impressive suction power that adjusts automatically based on dirt levels, it offers voice control, app connectivity and scheduled cleaning. It even creates a heat map showing where your floors are dirtiest, allowing it to ramp up power exactly where it’s needed most.
TESTING NOTES: In our evaluations, the Dyson’s triple-action brush bar—made of soft nylon, stiff bristles and anti-static carbon fiber filaments—picked up dust, dirt and pet hair with ease, without tangling or clogging. Its near-full-width design meant it cleaned more surface area in fewer passes. While it doesn’t have a self-emptying bin, the dustbin detaches smoothly and empties with a one-touch button, making maintenance quick and hassle-free.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum
How we test vacuum cleaners
Here at the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, we test all types of vacuums, from canister vacuums to robot vacuums and handheld vacuums, basing our reviews on ASTM International industry-standard test methods.
We test new vacuums as they are made available and each one is put through the same tests. Only the models that perform to our high standards are included in our vacuum buying guides.
Our performance tests include evaluating how well each vacuum cleaner removes dirt, debris and simulated pet hair from hard flooring like wood, tile and vinyl, plus medium pile carpets. We also look at how well vacuums clean along floor edges and how effective their suction is. Because hardwood floors can be damaged by rough cleaning methods, we also take a close look at the features each vacuum offers, like soft brush rolls, brush rolls that can be turned off and hard-floor-specific settings.
Our second set of tests, called ease-of-use tests, include testing each vacuum for ease of cleaning, maneuverability, maintenance, weight, battery run-time for cordless models and the clarity of the owner's manual. In addition to our in-Lab tests, we also recruit GH readers and staffers to try the vacuums for themselves at home and share their opinions.
FAQs
What vacuum won't scratch a hardwood floor?
To prevent scratches and scuffs, avoid vacuums with a spinning brush roll. These can scratch the wood and send hard debris flying across the room. Look for vacuums that either have a fluffy brush specifically designed for cleaning bare floors or include a wide parquet brush like the Miele CX1. Some vacuums also have removable brush rollers for greater flexibility.
Is it better to sweep or vacuum hardwood floors?
While both sweeping and vacuuming will get the job done, vacuums excel at picking up the fine dust that can be hard for a broom to sweep up. When using a broom, dirt can be left behind as it is swept across the floor, scooped into the pan or on its way to the garbage can.
What to look for in the best hardwood floor vacuum
There is no one-size-fits-all vacuum for hardwood floors. Different vacuums will suit different needs. Here’s what to look for when shopping for a hardwood floor vacuum:
✔️ Attachments: Brush rollers are great for cleaning plush carpeting but can cause fine scratches on wood flooring. For safety, make sure your vacuum either has multiple brush rolls, specialized attachments for hardwood or an option to turn the brush roll off. Soft brushes will sweep away debris from the cracks and crevices between wood floorboards and nab the finest dust particles for a more thorough cleaning. Brush attachments are also usually low enough to get to hard-to-reach places like under furniture.
✔️ Suction Power: Strong suction power is important in a good hardwood vacuum. Not only will good suction power pick up large debris, but it will also pick up pet hair and fine dirt or dust, and it will do a better job of nabbing particles lodged between the planks of wood.
✔️ Vacuum Type: Each style of vacuum will suit different needs. Cordless vacuums are ideal if you switch rooms frequently while vacuuming. Canister vacuums are extremely versatile and do a great job cleaning floors, stairs, furniture, lampshades and more. A robot vacuum will do the vacuuming for you with the push of a button. Stick vacuums are often convenient to store, take up little space and tend to be lightweight.
✔️ HEPA Filter: Models that use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter excel at catching dust and dirt, since they prevent small dust particles from escaping through the vacuum’s exhaust. If this feature is important to you, be sure to target true HEPA filters — vacuums with “HEPA-type” or “HEPA-like” filters may look like traditional pleated HEPA filters and will likely trap some small particles, but could miss the microscopic ones that can't escape the real thing.
✔️ Weight: Be sure to check the weight of the vacuum and take into consideration how much weight you’re willing to push around while vacuuming or carrying around the house.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
As executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care & Cleaning Lab, Carolyn Forté has tested and reviewed hundreds of vacuum cleaners, hardwood floor cleaners, carpet cleaners, mops for hardwood floors and other major home appliances for over 40 years. She is an active member of the ASTM Committee on Vacuum Cleaners and chairman of the consumer information subcommittee.
Contributing writer Brigitt Earley wrote this guide under the direction of Forté, who chose all of the products featured here. Brigitt has more than 15 years of experience testing and researching household products, including different categories of vacuums. And with four kids under the age of seven and a house full of hardwood floors, she's highly invested in finding the best vacuum cleaners for hardwood floors.
Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.
Brigitt is a writer, editor and craft stylist with nearly 15 years of experience. She specializes in lifestyle topics, including home, health, parenting, beauty, style, food, entertaining, travel and weddings. She has written for Glamour, People, Good Housekeeping, Women's Health, Real Simple, Martha Stewart, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and more.
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