When it comes to keeping our homes clean and tidy, one of the most important tools in our arsenal is the humble vacuum cleaner. But with so many different types of floors and surfaces to clean, it can be overwhelming to choose the right vacuum for the job. In this article, we’ll be focusing on the best vacuums for hard surface floors, and exploring what makes them stand out from the competition.
What Makes a Great Hard Floor Vacuum?
Before we dive into our top picks, it’s essential to understand what makes a great hard floor vacuum. Here are some key features to look out for:
Suction Power
A strong suction power is crucial for picking up dirt, dust, and debris from hard floors. Look for a vacuum with a high air watts rating, which measures the machine’s suction power. A higher rating typically indicates a more powerful vacuum.
Brush Roll
A brush roll is a key component of any vacuum, but it’s particularly important for hard floors. A brush roll helps to agitate dirt and debris, making it easier for the vacuum to pick up. However, some hard floor vacuums may come with a hard floor brush roll or a soft brush roll, which is designed specifically for delicate surfaces.
Adjustable Settings
An adjustable suction control or variable suction setting allows you to customize the suction power to suit different floor types. This feature is particularly useful if you have a mix of hard floors and carpets in your home.
Lightweight and Maneuverable
A lightweight and maneuverable vacuum makes it easy to clean hard floors, especially in tight spaces or around furniture. Look for a vacuum with a slim design and a comfortable handle.
Additional Tools and Accessories
Some hard floor vacuums come with additional tools and accessories, such as crevice tools or dusting brushes. These can be useful for getting into tight spaces or cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
Top Picks for Hard Floor Vacuums
Now that we’ve covered the key features to look for in a hard floor vacuum, let’s take a look at some of our top picks.
1. Dyson V11 Absolute Pro
The Dyson V11 Absolute Pro is a high-end cordless vacuum that’s perfect for hard floors. With a powerful digital motor that produces 185 air watts of suction power, this vacuum is capable of picking up even the smallest debris. The V11 Absolute Pro also comes with a variety of attachments, including a crevice tool, a mini motorized tool, and a stubborn dirt brush.
One of the standout features of the V11 Absolute Pro is its advanced filtration system, which captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This makes it an excellent choice for households with pets or allergies.
2. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is a versatile and powerful upright vacuum that’s perfect for hard floors. With a 1,200-watt motor and a detachable canister, this vacuum is capable of tackling even the toughest cleaning tasks.
One of the standout features of the Navigator Lift-Away Professional is its detachable canister, which makes it easy to clean stairs, upholstery, and tight spaces. The vacuum also comes with a variety of attachments, including a crevice tool, a dusting brush, and a turbo brush.
3. Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro
The Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro is a unique and innovative vacuum that’s specifically designed for hard floors and pet owners. This vacuum features a powerful 25.2-volt motor and a patented CrossWave technology that allows it to wash and dry hard floors in one easy step.
One of the standout features of the CrossWave Pet Pro is its pet hair brush roll, which is designed to pick up pet hair and other debris with ease. The vacuum also comes with a variety of attachments, including a crevice tool, a extension wand, and a pet hair collection tool.
Things to Consider When Buying a Hard Floor Vacuum
When buying a hard floor vacuum, there are several things to consider to ensure you get the right one for your needs.
Budget
Hard floor vacuums can range in price from under $100 to over $1,000, so it’s essential to set a budget before making a purchase. Consider how often you’ll be using the vacuum, the size of your home, and the type of floors you have.
Floor Type
Different hard floor vacuums are designed for specific floor types, such as hardwood, tile, or laminate. Consider the type of floors you have in your home and choose a vacuum that’s specifically designed for those surfaces.
Additional Features
Some hard floor vacuums come with additional features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control, or advanced filtration systems. Consider whether these features are important to you and whether they’re worth the extra cost.
Maintenance and Storage
Finally, consider the maintenance and storage requirements of the vacuum. Look for a vacuum with a washable filter, easy-to-empty dustbin, and a compact design that makes it easy to store.
Conclusion
Finding the best vacuum for hard surface floors can be a daunting task, but by considering the key features and top picks outlined in this article, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect vacuum for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a powerful upright vacuum, a lightweight cordless option, or a versatile canister vacuum, there’s a hard floor vacuum out there that’s sure to meet your needs.
Remember to consider your budget, floor type, additional features, and maintenance and storage requirements before making a purchase. With the right hard floor vacuum, you’ll be able to keep your floors clean, tidy, and looking their best.
What type of vacuum is best for hard surface floors?
When it comes to hard surface floors, you’ll want a vacuum that’s specifically designed for this type of flooring. A hard floor vacuum should have a gentle suction power to avoid scratching or damaging the floor. Look for a vacuum with a soft-bristled brush roll or a suction-only mode to ensure a delicate cleaning.
Additionally, consider a vacuum with a hard floor-specific cleaning path, which is typically wider than a standard vacuum. This allows for more efficient cleaning and reduces the number of passes you’ll need to make. Some vacuums may also come with specialized hard floor attachments, such as a crevice tool or a dusting brush, which can be helpful for getting into tight spaces or cleaning along baseboards.
Should I choose a cordless or corded vacuum?
The decision between a cordless and corded vacuum ultimately comes down to personal preference and your specific cleaning needs. Cordless vacuums offer greater convenience and portability, making them ideal for quick cleanups or for those with limited storage space. They’re also often lighter and easier to maneuver, reducing fatigue.
However, corded vacuums typically offer more power and longer runtime, making them better suited for larger spaces or for those who need to vacuum for extended periods. Corded vacuums also tend to be more cost-effective in the long run, as you won’t need to replace batteries. Consider your specific cleaning needs and weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.
What suction power do I need for hard surface floors?
For hard surface floors, you don’t need a vacuum with extremely high suction power. In fact, too much suction can scratch or damage certain types of flooring, such as hardwood or tile. A moderate suction power of around 10-15 amps is usually sufficient for most hard floor types.
When choosing a vacuum, look for one with adjustable suction control, which allows you to customize the suction power to your specific flooring type. This way, you can ensure a gentle yet effective cleaning. Be sure to read reviews and product descriptions to get a sense of the vacuum’s suction power and whether it’s suitable for your flooring.
Can I use my existing vacuum on hard surface floors?
If you already have a vacuum, it’s worth considering whether it’s suitable for hard surface floors. However, if your current vacuum is designed for carpets, it may not be the best choice for hard floors. Carpet vacuums often have features like beater brushes that can scratch or damage hard floors.
Take a closer look at your vacuum’s settings and attachments. If it has a hard floor setting or a suction-only mode, you may be able to use it on your hard surface floors. However, if you’re unsure or have concerns, it’s better to invest in a vacuum specifically designed for hard floors to ensure the best results and protect your flooring.
What about pet owners – do they need a special vacuum?
As a pet owner, you know that pet hair and dander can be a real challenge when it comes to cleaning. For hard surface floors, you’ll want a vacuum that’s specifically designed to tackle pet hair and dander. Look for a vacuum with a HEPA filter, which can trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pet dander.
Additionally, consider a vacuum with a specialized pet hair attachment or a rubberized roller that’s designed to pick up pet hair. Some vacuums may also have a separate mode for pet hair, which can help improve cleaning performance. By choosing a pet-friendly vacuum, you can keep your hard surface floors clean and reduce allergens.
How often should I clean my hard surface floors?
The frequency of cleaning your hard surface floors depends on several factors, including the type of flooring, foot traffic, and personal preference. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to clean your hard floors at least once a week, or more often if you have pets or allergies.
Daily maintenance can also go a long way in keeping your floors clean. Try to sweep or dry mop your floors daily to remove dirt and debris, which can scratch or damage your floors over time. By staying on top of cleaning, you can maintain the appearance and extend the lifespan of your hard surface floors.
What features should I look for in a hard floor vacuum?
When shopping for a hard floor vacuum, there are several key features to look for. First, consider the type of flooring you have and choose a vacuum that’s specifically designed for that type of flooring. Look for a vacuum with adjustable suction control, a soft-bristled brush roll or suction-only mode, and a hard floor-specific cleaning path.
Additionally, consider features like cord length, weight, and maneuverability, as well as attachments like crevice tools or dusting brushes. Some vacuums may also come with advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or voice control, which can enhance the cleaning experience. By prioritizing your needs and preferences, you can find a vacuum that meets your specific cleaning requirements.