Upright Vacuum Cleaners

Upright vacuums are the most popular type for whole-home cleaning. They combine the motor, dirt collection, and cleaning head in one unit, making them ideal for large carpeted areas. Modern uprights offer excellent suction power (120-245 AW), large capacity bins (1.5-2.5L), and versatile attachments for above-floor cleaning.

Best For: Deep carpet cleaning, large homes, pet hair removal, and users who want a single powerful tool for all cleaning tasks.

Key Features to Consider

Brush Roll Control: The ability to turn off the brush roll is essential for hard floors. Without this feature, debris can scatter, and you risk scratching delicate surfaces.

Height Adjustment: Proper height settings ensure optimal suction on different carpet pile heights. Automatic adjustment is convenient, but manual control offers more precision.

Swivel Steering: Ball or swivel steering technology makes maneuvering around furniture much easier. This feature is especially valuable in homes with lots of obstacles.

Bagged vs Bagless

Bagged Uprights: More hygienic emptying (better for allergies), consistent suction, and larger capacity. However, bags cost $10-30/year and need regular replacement.

Bagless Uprights: No ongoing costs, transparent bins let you see when to empty, and easier to check for accidentally vacuumed items. Requires more frequent filter cleaning and can be messy to empty.

Maintenance Tips

• Clean or replace filters every 3-6 months depending on use
• Check brush roll monthly for tangled hair and debris
• Empty bagless bins when they reach the fill line (not when completely full)
• Inspect and clean the hose if you notice suction loss
• Replace worn belts annually or when you notice reduced brush performance