Few of us love vacuuming our floors, but it’s a chore that must be done, so we might as well make it as easy on ourselves as possible. If you choose a bagless vacuum, you simply need to empty the dirt container once it’s full. There’s no need to mess around changing bags, plus they’re more environmentally friendly because you’re only throwing away the dirt from your floors, not a bulky bag that creates even more waste.
We reviewed dozens of bagless vacuums to identify the best of the best. To sort the brilliant from the bad, we considered a range of factors such as vacuum style, brand, suction levels, versatility, and average customer reviews.
There was a clear standout when it was time to select our top pick: the Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner. It has twice the suction power of any other cordless vacuums on the market right now and can rival the power of corded vacuums, too. Plus, the convenience of vacuuming cord-free is incredible.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Bagless Vacuums
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | 4.5 |
| Best Bagless Upright Vacuum | Shark Rotator Professional Upright Corded Bagless Vacuum | 4.4 |
| Best Budget Buy | Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | 4.2 |
| Best Bagless Canister Vacuum | Bissell Hard Floor Expert Multi-Cyclonic Bagless Canister Vacuum | 3.9 |
| Best Bagless Vacuum for Pet Hair | Hoover Pet Max Complete Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Bagless Vacuum Overall: Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
If somebody could design their dream vacuum, the Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner would probably be it! The more convenient it is to vacuum your floors, the more likely you are to do so regularly, and this model makes vacuuming a breeze. The cordless design means no more winding or unwinding power cords or having to change wall sockets once you reach the limits of the cable. This also means you can easily vacuum your car, summer house, or anywhere else you don’t have access to a power socket. With older cordless vacuums, you had to sacrifice some cleaning power but this model cleans just as well as any corded vacuum. It runs fade-free for approximately 60 minutes before it needs to be recharged, which is ample time to clean the majority of homes.
Set a range of different cleaning modes depending on your floor type or use the auto mode, which automatically senses what type of floor you’re cleaning and adjusts accordingly. Its whole-machine filtration system captures 99. 97% of all dust particles, even microscopic ones (of 0.3 microns and above). You get a range of tools included: a torque drive head, mini-motorized tool, stubborn dirt brush, crevice tool, combination tool, soft dusting brush, docking station, and charger. Retailing at approximately $600, it isn’t cheap, but it is exceptional.
Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Key Features:
- Quickly and easily converts to a handheld vacuum.
- Boost mode gives you extra power in the dirtiest areas.
- Low-profile option lets you vacuum far under furniture.
Best Bagless Upright Vacuum: Shark Rotator Professional Upright Corded Bagless Vacuum
Anyone looking for a quality upright vacuum should put the Shark Rotator Professional Upright Corded Bagless Vacuum at the top of their list. A versatile machine with exceptional suction, it makes light work of all kinds of vacuuming tasks. Upright vacuums make it super easy to clean large areas of carpet or hard floor, but can fall down when you’re trying to vacuum edges, stairs, and tight corners. The Shark Rotator features a lift-away canister with a flexible wand and various attachments, so you can use it like a standard upright vacuum most of the time, them switch to the canister option when needed.
Thanks to the swivel steering, it’s extremely easy to maneuver in upright mode and there’s an LED light on the cleaning head so you can see better in dark corners and under furniture. With 1,200 watts of power, it has incredible suction and cleans deep into carpets. The HEPA filter traps 99.97% of allergens, so it’s an ideal choice for people with dust allergies, pet allergies, or other environmental allergies. It costs roughly $240, but that’s money well-spent for such a powerful and versatile vacuum.
Shark Rotator Professional Upright Corded Bagless Vacuum Key Features:
- Extra-large dirt container can go longer between empties.
- Long hose length in canister mode.
- Comes with crevice tool, dusting tool, and more.
Best Budget Bagless Vacuum: Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Looking for a budget bagless vacuum that actually cleans and won’t break in a few months? Try the Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner. Sure, it’s never going to clean as well as a high-end Dyson or Shark, but the suction is decent and for less than $85, you can’t complain. It has five manual height adjustment settings so it’s suitable for use on everything from hard floors to deep shag carpets. The large 12.5-inch cleaning head means you can clean your floors with fewer passes. It also has a hose with crevice, upholstery, and dusting attachments for edges, stairs, soft furnishings, and more.
The extra-large dust cup holds plenty so you should be able to vacuum your whole house before needing to empty it. The whole unit weighs just 10 pounds, so it’s light enough to maneuver easily, carry upstairs, and so on. The foam filter is washable so you don’t need to buy replacements.
Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Key Features:
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to maneuver.
- Handle folds down for easier storage.
- All tools can be stored on board, so no need to search when you need them.
Best Bagless Canister Vacuum: Bissell Hard Floor Expert Multi-Cyclonic Bagless Canister Vacuum
As its name suggests, the Bissell Hard Floor Expert Multi-Cyclonic Bagless Canister Vacuum is designed to tackle hard floors effectively, but it has also has an extra head that’s suitable for carpets. The turbine attachment is means for use on hard floors. It’s great at picking up hairs and dirt particles that other vacuums often leave behind of hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors, but it’s gentle enough to avoid gouging or scratching hard floors. The multi-surface professional head is easy to switch to for any carpeted areas or rugs you might have.
The canister portion of this vacuum is compact and lightweight. It has a handle on one end for easier carrying, which you can hold it by as you vacuum your stairs. Thanks to its multi-cyclonic technology, it has excellent suction that doesn’t fade over time, leaving your floors consistently clean. It costs approximately $210, which is more than some canister vacuums, but its abilities on hard floors aren’t easily surpassed.
Bissell Hard Floor Expert Multi-Cyclonic Bagless Canister Vacuum Key Features:
- Cord retracts automatically; no manual winding necessary.
- Telescoping wand can get far under furniture.
- Dirt cup is easy to empty.
Best Bagless Vacuum for Pet Hair: Hoover Pet Max Complete Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Dogs and cats can bring joy to your home, but they also bring mountains of shedded fur. If you need a bagless vacuum that will keep on top of the pet hair on your floors and couches, consider the Hoover Pet Max Complete Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner. The brush roll cleans deep within carpets to pull out pet hair (as well as dirt and dander), but can also be turned off for use on hard floors. It includes a pet turbo tool that’s great at removing pet hair from sofas and other soft furnishings, plus a dusting brush and crevice tool for general cleaning.
Allergenblock technology captures and contains 97% of pet dander, dust, and pollen particles keeping your home as hospitable as possible for people who suffer from environmental allergies. The extra large dirt container can hold a lot of pet hair (and other dirt) before it needs to be emptied. We think this vacuum is well worth its $180 price tag for anyone who struggles to keep on top of pet hair in their homes.
Hoover Pet Max Complete Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Key Features:
- Wand with hose has extended cleaning reach for those awkward spots.
- Powerful suction with WindTunnel technology.
- Five level floor height adjustment.
Who Should Buy a Bagless Vacuum
When buying a new vacuum cleaner, we’d recommend a bagless vacuum to anyone and everyone. In fact, bagless vacuums are becoming far more popular than bagged vacuums, so it will be easier to find a quality bagless model, anyway.
Bagless vacuums are more convenient and easier to empty than vacuums with bags. You generally just hold the dirt container over a garbage can and press the release button to open the base so the dirt falls out. Whereas, with a bagged model you need to wrestle with the bag to remove it without spilling its contents then fit a new one correctly. Plus, every time you change bags you’re sending an extra item to landfill, not to mention that the cost of replacement bags adds up over the years.
For an even easier dump of the dust cup, you may want to check out The Best Step Trash Cans.
Important Features to Consider
A bagless vacuum should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a bagless vacuum:
- Vacuum type. Most vacuums fall into one of three main types: upright, canister, or stick. Upright vacuums make it quick and easy to clean large, clear areas but are fairly bulky and can be hard to maneuver. Canister vacuums are lightweight and easy to carry upstairs, clean under furniture, etc, but it can take a while to clean large rooms. Stick vacuums are a newer style and combine the cleaning speed of uprights with the maneuverability of canisters.
- Corded vs. cordless. Corded vacuums tend to be the most powerful. You can find some powerful cordless options, but they’re significantly more expensive than corded models of an equal quality. However, for many buyers, the extra cash is worth it for the convenience of cordless cleaning.
- Dirt cup capacity. The dirt cup (also known as the dirt container or dust cup) is where the dirt goes instead of a bag. The larger the capacity, the less often it will need emptying.
- Cord length. If you choose a corded bagless vacuum, it’s a good idea to find out the cord length. When a vacuum has a short cord, you’ll need to switch between power outlets more regularly, which can be annoying.
- Run time. If you choose a cordless vacuum, find out the run time before you’ll need to recharge the battery. Ideally, you should be able to vacuum your whole house on a single charge, but this might not be possible if you have a very large home.
- Filter. Find out what kind of filter your chosen bagless vacuum has and how it works. HEPA filters are the best for anyone who suffers from allergies, as they trap 99.97% of dust particles, pollen, pet dander, and so on.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bagless vacuum and how does it work?
A bagless vacuum is a vacuum cleaner that has a built-in dirt container instead of using bags. After each time you vacuum, or when the dust cup is full, you take it to a garbage can, press the release button, and panel opens up, letting the dirt in the container out. Other than that, you operate bagless vacuums in much the same way as those with bags. One factor to consider is that bagless vacuums tend to direct the smallest dirt and dust particles to the filters (whereas bagged vacuums suck everything into the bag), so filters in bagless vacuums tend to need cleaning and/or replacing more frequently.
Which is better bagless or bagged vacuums?
It’s not as simple as saying one is better than the other, as each variety has its pros and cons, so it’s up to you to decide which is right for you.
Bagless vacuums cost less to run than their bagged counterparts because you don’t need to factor in the cost of replacement bags. They’re more eco-friendly because you throw away approximately one vacuum bag a month with a bagged model. You can easily tell when bagless vacuums are full and empty them before you start to lose suction, plus they’re very easy to empty. The downside to bagless vacuums is that they need regular emptying and when you do empty them, you’ll be exposed to the dust and other allergens inside (though this is really only an issue if you suffer from asthma or environmental allergies).
Bagged vacuum cleaners keep all the dust and dirt inside, so there’s less exposure to them when you change bags. Plus, you only need to change the bag once a month or so. On the other hand, changing a vacuum bag is a bit of a faff. Performance also decreases as the bag starts to get full, and you need to spend out on new bags regularly.
Are bagless vacuums better for allergies?
Bagless vacuums are a double-edged sword for allergy sufferers. On one hand, bagless vacuums are the most popular option right now, so it’s more likely that you’ll find a quality vacuum with HEPA filtration at an affordable price. Plus, since you’ll generally need to empty a bagless vacuum after each vacuuming session, you won’t have a vacuum filled with dust hanging around your home. The problem with bagless vacuums for allergy sufferers is that when you empty them, it’s easier to get the dust and dirt inside on you. However, you can solve this problem by wearing a dust mask as you empty it or asking a family member or someone you live with to do the emptying for you.
Are bagless vacuums difficult to use?
Aside from the emptying process, bagless vacuum cleaners work in the same way as bagged vacuums. Many users find it easier to empty the dirt container on a bagless vacuum than it is to change a vacuum bag. That said, you’ll also find people who prefer to change a vacuum bag than empty a dust cup, so it’re really down to personal preference and the mechanics of your chosen vacuum.
Other Bagless Vacuums We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other bagless vacuums. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best bagless vacuums list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Cordless Bagless Vacuums
Dyson Cyclone V10 Motorhead Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
An excellent cordless stick vacuum from one of the world’s top vacuum cleaner manufacturers. The direct drive cleaner head gives an exceptionally deep clean.
Key Features:
- 60 minute run time with a non-motorized tool or 20 minutes with motorized tool.
- Sealed HEPA filter.
- Transforms into handheld vacuum.
Cost: $500
Hikeren Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
A lightweight model with a slightly different design than the majority of cordless vacuums. Surprisingly effective for the price.
Key Features:
- Cleans for 30 minutes on high power.
- Suitable for wet or dry use.
- Lift-away handheld option.
Cost: $100
An affordable alternative to some of the high-end cordless stick vacuums with some excellent customer reviews to back it up.
Key Features:
- 30 to 45 minute run time.
- Performs excellently on hard floors and carpets.
- Includes motorized cleaning head.
Cost: $115
Cleans quietly and efficiently with one brush for hard floors and one brush for carpets. Includes crevice tools and more for versatile cleaning wherever you need it.
Key Features:
- Runs for up to 40 minutes.
- Swivels for better maneuverability.
- Extremely lightweight.
Cost: $120
Shark ION F80 MultiFLEX DuoClean Cordless Stick Vacuum
The powerful suction rivals the majority of corded vacuums any day and is even suitable for high traffic areas. Cleaning head features two rolls for hard floors and carpets and adjusts according to the surface you’re vacuuming.
Key Features:
- Two removable interchangeable batteries included, each with a 40 minute run time.
- Flexes to reach far under furniture.
- Folds for compact storage.
Bagless Stick Vacuums
iwoly V600 Corded Bagless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
Some users don’t find it powerful enough for deep cleaning, but it’s a lightweight and highly maneuverable option for spot cleaning or quickl daily vacuuming between more intense vacuuming sessions.
Key Features:
- Can change into a handheld vacuum.
- Weighs less than 5 pounds.
- Included wall-mounting bracket
Cost: $60
Similar to the MOOSOO cordless stick vacuum we listed above but a fraction of the price, making it an excellent bargain if you aren’t to concerned with cord-free vacuuming.
Key Features:
- Four-stage filtration system including an HEPA filter.
- Includes crevice tool for edges and tight corners.
- Handheld option.
Cost: $40
Shark APEX DuoClean with Zero-M No Hair Wrap
The Zero-M brush head continuously picks up pet hair (and human hair) without tangles. Extremely powerful, picking up large pieces of dirt and tiny particles with ease.
Key Features:
- Long 30 foot power cord.
- Lightweight design and swivel steering for maneuverability.
- Extra large dust cup capacity.
Cost: $230
Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum
If you love the excellent cleaning power of Shark vacuums but are on a budget, this is a more affordable alternative to the product above. It has fewer high-end features but still cleans well.
Key Features:
- Effective on both carpets and hard floors.
- Floor to ceiling cleaning options.
- Doesn’t lose suction.
Upright Bagless Vacuums
BISSELL Cleanview Swivel Pet Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
A simple upright vacuum that’s tough on pet hair, plus at least $5 from every sale goes to the BISSELL pet foundation to help animals in need.
Key Features:
- Hugely effective triple-action brush roll.
- Includes motorized pet tool for cleaning upholstery.
- Edge-to-edge cleaning.
Cost: $120
Dirt Devil Endura Reach Upright Bagless Vacuum
An affordable upright vacuum that does a good job overall though might not be quite tough enough for high traffic areas. The removable wand reaches those places the cleaning head can’t.
Key Features:
- Large easy-empty dust cup.
- Weighs under 10 pounds.
- Works well on hard floors and carpet.
Cost: $60
Dyson Ball Animal Upright Vacuum
Designed to meet the rigors of a home with pets, including HEPA filtration to trap allergens and a tangle-free turbine head to clean up pet hair.
Key Features:
- Highly maneuverable thanks to ball design.
- Instant release wand for hard-to-reach places.
- Exceptional cyclonic suction.
Cost: $350
Hoover T-Series WindTunnel Rewind Plus
Imbued with Hoover’s WindTunnel technology that creates extra suction to lift deeply embedded dirt from rugs and carpets.
Key Features:
- Height-adjustable brush roll to suit different floor types.
- Includes wand with crevice tool, upholstery brush, and more.
- HEPA filter.
Cost: $90
Shark DuoClean Powered Lift-Away
The DuoClean head on this model has two brush rolls, one suited to sweeping up large pieces of dirt and the other to sweeping up tiny particles, giving you a better overall clean on hard floors and carpets.
Key Features:
- Lift-Away option with wand.
- Easily switches from hard floor to carpet mode.
- LED headlight helps see hidden dust and dirt.
Cost: $270
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe
That excellent Shark power in a classic upright with a twist. The Lift-Away option allows you to use the want like a canister for stairs and other areas hard to reach with an upright.
Key Features:
- Uses HEPA filtration.
- Lightweight at less than 13 pounds.
- Large capacity dust container
Other Bagless Vacuums
It doesn’t cost much, but this lightweight canister vacuum is surprisingly powerful. Sure, it’s simple, but it gets the job done!
Key Features:
- Weight under 8 pounds
- Easy to switch from hard floor mode to carpet mode.
- Comes with crevice tool and dusting brush.
Cost: $60
Eureka NEN110A Whirlwind Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner
Another lightweight canister vacuum that’s easy to move around the house and has an extra large 3 liter dust container. A great choice for small homes.
Key Features:
- Three settings, one each for hard floors, carpet, and upholstery.
- 2 in 1 crevice tool.
- Washable, reusable filters.
Cost: $70
Why vacuum your own floors when you could have a tiny robot do it for you. This robot vacuum from GOOVI is an affordable alternative to the big brands.
Key Features:
- Works on hard floors and carpets.
- Cleans under furniture.
- Drop sensor stops it falling down steps.
Cost: $200
iRobot Roomba 675 Robot Vacuum
Roomba is the robot vacuum that everybody knows. It costs a little more than alternative options but has some excellent features, such as Alexa compatibility and a three-stage cleaning system.
Key Features:
- Smart mapping technology.
- Dirt sensors “know” where your floors are diretiest and do extra work there.
- Control from anywhere using the iRobot app.
Cost: $270
Kenmore Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagless Compact Canister Vacuum
It has a few quirks but this powerful canister vacuum works well overall and is ideal for homes where pets live.
Key Features:
- HEPA filter to trap allergens.
- Includes crevice tool and dusting brush.
- Wand extends up to 9 feet.
Cost: $270
