Top 18 Best Vacuums for Small Apartment Reviews 2020

Cleaning your apartment is something you will have to do regularly. While you will need to carry out the occasional cleaning and dusting, you also need to vacuum around the house regularly. Experts advise that you clean your carpet and rug at least twice a week. If you own a pet, then you may have to do so daily to get rid of hair, dirt, and other microscopic allergens that are unnoticeable to the eyes.

When it comes to a suitable vacuum to buy, you want to consider the size of your apartment and get one that will be well suited for it. It will almost be impossible to fit the Vacmaster or Hoover Commercial in a small-sized apartment, but some brands could enter a teeny tiny space.

I have gone through the lengths and breadths to find some of the quality vacuums that you can check out. There are many different products in the market, but I have reviewed 20 of the top best vacuum for small apartments, so you can read through to learn all the features that set them apart from others.

You can also find a buyer's guide on how to look for a quality product in the market. I have also answered some of the questions you may have when looking to buy a new vacuum cleaner for the house. So you want to read through till the end of this article. Without any further delays, let's get started with the review.

What Are The Best Vacuums For Small Apartment To Buy?

• Best  Overall - Shark Navigator NV356E Lift-Away Vacuum Cleaner
  It is both sturdy and lightweight, versatile, and easy to use, making it my best choice of vacuum cleaner for a small apartment.
• Best Budget - Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum Cleaner
  A quality vacuum cleaner that is both durable and reasonably priced for those on a tight budget.
• Best Canister - Bissell Zing Canister Vacuum Cleaner
  Includes a two-liter dirt cup that eliminates the need for changing bags or getting a replacement.
• Best Bagged - Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS Upright Vacuum Cleaner
  It features a disposable top-fill inner bag that collects all the dirt from a tiny apartment.
• Best Extra-Long Cord Vacuum Cleaner - Shark Rotator Vacuum Cleaner
  It features a 25 Ft. cord that allows for a wide range of movement in any direction.
• Best Vacuum Cleaner for Pet Hair - Bissell Cleanview Upright Vacuum Cleaner
  A bagless vacuum cleaner with a one-pass technology with powerful suction that makes it suitable for pet hair.
• Best Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner - Eureka Powerspeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner
  At just 10 lbs, you get a lightweight vacuum that is easy to use and equally durable too.
• Best Vacuum for Hardwood - Shark NV803 Standard DuoClean Vacuum
  Features a soft brush roll that glides smoothly over hardwood as it eliminates the tiniest speck of dirt.
• Best Option for Long Hair - Shark Apex Upright Vacuum Cleaner
  A DuoClean Technology and Zero-M anti-hair wrap feature help to remove all traces of hair from the floor.
• Best Option with Retractable Cord - Bissell Cleanview Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
  It comes with a 27-inch power cord that rewinds automatically for quick and stress-free storage.
• Best Option with Lights - Shark Rotator NV752 Vacuum Cleaner
  Navigate dark corners such as under furniture with this high-quality vacuum cleaner with LED lights.
• Best Cordless Stick Vacuum - Dyson Cyclone V10 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
  With 60 minutes run time on this cordless vacuum, you get enough time to clean a small apartment.
• Best Lightweight Corded Option - Shark Rocket Hand Vacuum Cleaner
  It features a lightweight design with cords, and you can also convert it into a handheld vacuum for above-floor cleaning.
• Best Cordless Stick Option for Large Spaces - Dyson V11 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
  It provides twice the suction of any cordless vacuum making it right for cleaning both small and large spaces.
• Best Value for Money - Tineco A10 Hero Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
  A highly durable vacuum cleaner with powerful suction and a long-lasting battery to go with it.
• Best Option for Carpet - Dyson V7 Motorhead Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
  Whether it for home or your car, the Dyson V7 is suitable for vacuuming all types of carpet.
• Best Stick Option for Human Hair - Dyson V8 Animal Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
  Getting rid of human hair from your carpet and floors is a lot easier with this cord-free stick vacuum from Dyson.
• Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaner - Shark Rocket Hand Vacuum Cleaner
  Weighs less than four pounds in total, making it one of the simplest handheld vacuum cleaner you will ever use.

Best Vacuums for Small Apartment Comparison Chart

I have included this comparison chart to provide you with an overview of the products available for review. You can find a detailed analysis of each product below the table.

Top 15 Best Vacuum Cleaner for Small Apartment Reviews 2020

Below is a detailed overview of the best vacuum cleaners for a small home, you can find information such as the key features and the pros and cons of each one after a summary of the product.

1. Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Low Budget Pick)

I find this one to be easy to use and convenient for cleaning a small apartment with messy occupants such as the kids and pets. The lightweight design makes it suitable for long cleaning hours where you put your headsets on and wipe your apartment for every speck of dust like you were expecting a special guest or two. You can check this video for how it operates.

With the right crevice tool, you can equally convert it into a hand vacuum. You can also fit the floor nozzle to the hand vacuum for cleaning the stairs. It is suitable for cleaning hard floors and eliminating surface dirt from area rugs and carpets. It has a dirt cup capacity of 0.67 liters and a 15 ft. cord providing you with enough room to move in. It is reasonably priced and a suitable choice if you are on shopping for a low priced option.

Key Features

• 0.67 liters dirt cup
• 15 ft cord
• Stick vacuum

2. Bissell Zing Canister Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Canister Vacuum Cleaner)

Another quality product from Bissell, this one features a Zing canister with a dirt cup capacity of two liters. With a cyclonic action and powerful suction, you can expect it to deliver a thorough clean. It weighs slightly under eight pounds making it easy to maneuver with the carrying handle. The post-motor filters and the ones attached to the dirt cup are washable, making them reusable. So you don't have to get a replacement dirt storage like the ones that feature a dirt bag.

You get 15 feet of cord to work with, and it easily retracts at the touch of a button when you want to store it. But I find the canister to flip quickly, especially when you tug too hard while vacuuming. I would have to blame that on the lightweight design. Aside from that, I have no much to complain about this high-quality canister vacuum from Bissell. You can find more visuals in this unboxing video of the Zing 2156A vacuum.

Key Features

• 15 ft cord
• Two liters dirt cup (canister)
• Washable filters

3. Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS Upright Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Bagged Vacuum Cleaner)

The Oreck vacuum cleaner also makes it on the list of the best vacuum cleaner for a small apartment. It is worth mentioning that the helping hand handle on this device has received a commendation from the arthritis foundation. The automatic floor adjustments provide the vacuum with the freedom to move on both carpets and hard surfaces, plus you get an on/off switch on the grip as well. This video shows a clearer picture of the unit at work.

It functions at a high-speed with brushes that whirls at 6,500 RPM, and the extra-wide cleaning path makes it suitable for cleaning low profile carpets. The disposable top-fill inner bag is sturdy enough to resist regular wear and tear. Although the manufacturers claim it to be the extra-large size, at the height of 47 inches and nine inches length, it should be easy to store, making it my best-bagged vacuum cleaner for a small apartment.

Key Features

• Upright vacuum cleaner
• 12-inch wide cleaning path
• 35-foot cord length

4. Shark Rotator Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Extra-Long Cord Vacuum Cleaner)

The Shark Rotator is not the only product from Shark you will be reading about in this review. But if you require an extra-long corded vacuum cleaner, then you want to check this one out. It comes with the quality you can expect from the range of products available by this professional vacuum cleaner manufacturer.

It is a powerful upright vacuum with a lift-away pod for easy cleaning of stairs and above-floor areas. With its lightweight design, it is simple to use, and it operates quietly compared to other commercial vacuum machines. The XL dust cup provides extended cleaning without any stoppages. You can check this video to see the product in action.

Key Features

• 25 ft cord length
• LED lights on the floor nozzle
• HEPA seal technology

5. Bissell Cleanview Upright Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Vacuum Cleaner for Pet Hair)

If you have to contend with pet hair regularly around the home, then this upright vacuum cleaner from Bissell is my top choice for pet owners. It features a one-pass technology with powerful suction and brush design that allows for super cleaning. There is equally a multilevel filtration system that helps to limit dust and allergens in the home. You also get to enjoy an extended cleaning reach with a 25-foot power cord.

You get a dirt cup capacity of two liters, which reduces the frequency of emptying the cup. It worked well on a variety of surface types, including carpet, bare floor, low pile carpet, upholstery, stairs, and sealed hard floor. It sucks up the tiniest of hair particles, making it suitable for those with long hair and pet owners. If for anything, you may want to consider the fact that Bissell donates up to $10 for every pet product sold to assist pets in shelters and rescues and help contribute to saving a homeless pet.

Key Features

• Upright bagless vacuum cleaner
• 25-foot power cord
• Two liters dirt cup

6. Eureka Powerspeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner)

If you are more interested in a lightweight vacuum that will still be useful in a few years, you may want to consider the Eureka Powerspeed. It weighs under 10 lbs making it easy to move about without hassle. It has a powerful motor that creates a strong suction that ensures quality cleaning performance. It offers five height adjustment settings that allow you to clean low to medium pile carpets, rugs, and hard floors.

You also get a unit that is easy to assembly, with an XL dust cup and filters that you can wash. With a broad cleaning path of 12.6 inches, you can get a lot done in a short time. The additional seven-inch crevice tool, upholstery tool, and dusting brush also make it worth buying. This video shows how to get started with a new Eureka vacuum cleaner.

Key Features

• 12.6-inch wide nozzle
• Bagless upright vacuum cleaner
• 25-foot cord length

7. Shark NV803 Standard DuoClean Vacuum

(Best Vacuum for Hardwood)

If you have more of hardwood than carpet in your apartment, then you may want to consider this option from Shark. It features bristle brush roll and powerful suction that snatches every single dirt that comes in contact with it. The anti-allergen complete seal captures dust and allergens while preventing them from escaping back into the air. The dynamic swivel steering makes for excellent control when moving around with it.

You could also consider it if you want an option with LED lights for cleaning dark areas of the home. You get 30 feet of cord length, which is enough to navigate around your cleaning space. This video shows how easy it is to use this device.

Key Features

• 30-foot cord length
• Duo cleaning feature
• Upright vacuum cleaner

8. Shark Apex Upright Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Option for Long Hair)

The Zero M self-cleaning features on this one provide a deep clean for floors and carpet, eliminating all traces of pet and human hair in your living space. With the powered lift-away feature, you can remove the canister and extend your reach to clean above the floor or under furniture.

I also like the fact that it features an advanced anti-allergen seal technology with HEPA filters. There are LED lights installed on the floor nozzle and handle of the vacuum cleaner, which makes it equally suitable if you need one with lighting features. You get 30 feet of cord length with this one providing you with enough room to do your chores.

Key Features

• 30-ft cord
• LED lights
• HEPA filters
• Upright vacuum cleaner

9. Bissell Cleanview Bagless Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Option with Retractable Cord)

Aside from the fact that you get to save a pet when you buy a vacuum cleaner from Bissell, you also enjoy the quality product from a household name. With a triple action brush roll and scatter free technology, picking both pets and human hair is not all that difficult. There is also the fact that it comes with a 27inch automatic retractable power cord making it easy to store. So if you are shopping the market for a vacuum cleaner with a cable that rewinds, you may want to check this out.

There is a one-liter dirt cup attached to it and extra tools like the pet hair corner tool and pet turbo eraser tool. The above floor tools could also be useful for cleaning the roof or cabinet shelf. Although it weighs 19 pounds, the swivel head makes it easy to move around with the cleaner. You can find out in this video how to maintain your Bissell vacuum brush roll.

Key Features

• 27-inch retractable cord
• One-liter dirt cup
• Extra pet tools

10. Shark Rotator NV752 Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Option with Lights)

Another quality vacuum cleaner from Shark, the NV752, is an XL size cleaner with a hand vacuum and anti-allergen seal. I love the fact that it provides you with an unparalleled floor and ceiling cleaning reach, which is not familiar with many other products. Moving with the device is simple, thanks to the swivel head technology and the powered lift away features that extend the reach of the cleaner head.

You also get fingertips control on this one for a quick switch from carpet to floor without any stoppages. There are also bright LED lights on the handle and floor nozzle for cleaning dark areas such as under furniture, which is why I recommend this one if you are shopping for a product with super bright lights. You can learn more about the Shark NV752 in this video.

Key Features

• LED lights
• XL size
• Swivel steering
• Fingertip controls

11. Dyson Cyclone V10 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Cordless Stick Vacuum)

The Dyson Cyclone V10 is my best choice for a cordless vacuum cleaner. Cleaning around with a cable attached can be a little bit of difficulty, which is why you may want to consider this rechargeable option. When fully charged, you get 60 minutes of battery power to work with, which is enough time to clean a small apartment. You also get 0.2 gallons of a storage bin, which is another reason why you should contemplate the Dyson V10.

I also love that you can convert it to a hand vacuum for cleaning above-floor areas such as inside furniture and car space. It provides enough power to pick up dirt, which makes it efficient at wiping hard floors and carpet. You should know that the run time depends on the power mode; for a medium clean, you can get up to 40 minutes or more, which is not bad for a cordless vacuum cleaner. This video tells a more visual story of the Cyclone V10.

Key Features

• Cordless vacuum cleaner
• 0.2-gallon bin
• Three power mode

12. Shark Rocket Hand Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Lightweight Corded Option)

I have had the benefit of using the Shark Rocket hand vacuum in the past and won't deny that it is ultralight when it comes to handling. At just under 10 lbs, you can expect that it won't be much of a strain to move around. The powerful suction and bristle brush roll make for an exceptional cleaning suitable for all kinds of surfaces. It also features pet multi-tool to eliminate pet and human hair around your living space.

It features LED lights on the floor nozzle and handles for working around poorly lit sections of your home. The 30-foot cord gives you enough room to move around when utilizing the device. For a lightweight device, it does prove to be sturdy enough as I still have the unit I purchased over a year ago in an excellent working condition. I find this video to show a visual image of how the DuoClean feature works.

Key Features

• 30-foot cord
• DuoClean Technology
• LED lights

13. Dyson V11 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Cordless Stick Option for Large Spaces)

If you want a cordless vacuum cleaner that can work for an ample space like your living room before dying out, then the Dyson V11 cordless should be worth checking out. You get enough suction that can eliminate both pet and human hair from wood floors or carpet. It can transform into a handheld device for cleaning furniture and vehicle interior. You can find a comparison of the V11 and V10 in this video.

It features a filtration system capable of snatching up even the tiniest of particles. When fully charged, it can function for up to 60 minutes based on the selected power level. The docking station makes it easy to store and charge the device without stress. You would have to order a replacement battery from the manufacturer, and this could take days or weeks, depending on your location.

Key Features

• Cordless cleaner
• V11 motor
• Drop-in docking

14. Tineco A10 Hero Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Value for Money)

If you are cautious about spending too much on a vacuum cleaner that eventually breaks after a couple of months, you may need to try this value option for a start. It is reasonably priced and includes features that make it stand up to the more expensive product in the market. For a cordless vacuum, it features a lightweight design, with powerful suction and a long-lasting battery to carry out your chores. The high-torque multi-task brush system is suitable for sweeping both hardwood and carpet floors.

It can be switched into a handheld device and includes floor to ceiling tools for multi-purpose cleaning. The four-stage filtration system helps to seal in small particles and prevent leakage, while the LED lighting provides a vision for cleaning dark spots. You get a two-year warranty, which is more reason why it can be considered as the best value option in the market. You can check this video for a more visual representation of the vacuum cleaner.

Key Features

• LED lights
• 2000mah detachable lithium battery
• Cordless vacuum cleaner

15. Dyson V7 Motorhead Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Option for Carpet)

The Dyson V7 is also on the list of the best vacuum cleaners you can trust. It has powerful suction for a cordless vacuum, which makes it highly suitable for carpet. It is also ideal for cleaning wood and other hard floor surfaces. The docking station allows you to charge the device and equally store it when not in use. As with all Dyson cord-free units, this one can similarly be detached for cleaning ceilings, inside furniture, and vehicles as quickly as possible. Check this video to see the device in use.

The hygienic bin emptying features means you don't have to touch the dirt in the process of cleaning out the canister. The low profile head easily slides under furniture and tight corners for a thorough clean. Although it could take a few hours to recharge fully, you get more than 30 minutes of cleaning time, which could be more than enough for cleaning a small space.

Key Features

• Cordless vacuum cleaner
• 0.14-gallon bin
• Convertible

16. Dyson V8 Animal Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Stick Option for Human Hair)

If you are shopping specifically for a vacuum cleaner that gets rid of human hair, then you should contemplate the Dyson V8. You get 150% more power than the Dyson V6, which is enough to scoop the tiniest hair strands. It could also work well in a home where pet fur is always laying around the place. For a cordless unit, it weighs reasonably low, making it easy to move around.

It can be transferred to a handheld gear for quick cleaning of areas above the ground. The filter system helps to trap in allergens and can be washed, saving you the cost of getting a replacement. You get up to 40 minutes run time of full power, which is enough to finish your chores. You can check this video to see this device in action.

Key features

• Cordless vacuum cleaner
• Washable filter
• 0.14-gallon bin

17. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum Cleaner

(Editor's Pick)

The Shark Navigator is my top pick if you want an all-round unit that will last long. It can be frustrating to spend a couple of hundred dollars on a vacuum cleaner only for it to break down after a few uses. I choose to recommend it even when I have not connections with the manufacturer. I asked around and did in-depth research and found a lot of customers to be satisfied with purchasing this product online.

It features an anti-allergen seal technology with HEPA filters that prevents you from inhaling the dust while cleaning. The lift-away feature makes it possible to clean hard to reach areas, and you get a 25-foot cord to move around with it. It could work correctly for carpets and bare floors, which makes it an even more desirable option for a vacuum cleaner. Learn how to for the Shark Navigator in this video.

Key Features

• HEPA filters
• 25-foot cord
• 0.55-gallon canister

18. Shark Rocket Hand Vacuum Cleaner

(Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaner)

If you are shopping for a handheld vacuum cleaner that rocks, you may want to check out the Shark Rocket HV292. At less than four pounds, it is both lightweight and portable, making it superb for above-floor cleaning. There is no bag installed, and you get to empty the cup with the touch of a button that is unique for a handy vacuum cleaner. It provides enough suction power that picks up hair and dust particles quickly.

You also get a 15-foot cord and extra tools to get your cleaning done without and difficulties. You can equally take out the filters and wash it, so you don't have to spend on a new one and time soon. You can check how to clean your filters in this video.

Key Features

• Handheld vacuum cleaner
• 15-foot cord
• Washable filter

Best Vacuum Cleaner for Small Apartment Buying Guide

Now that I have enlightened you on some of the best vacuum cleaners that are suitable for home cleaning, I will now move on to share with you a few tips on finding the right product for you. It can be a big deal to settle on a particular product, especially if you don't know how to shop for quality. You can begin your search by comparing products based on the features summarized below.

1. Floor Type

Your type of floor should be something to consider when shopping for a vacuum cleaner. You should know that there are products that work best for hard floors such as wood or tile, while some others roll smoothly over carpet, so you want to keep this in mind. It is best to always go for a unit that is suitable for both surfaces as they provide you with a versatile device.

2. Weight

Another thing to check is the weight of your product. Some lightweight product weighs as much as four pounds while you can find others that are as massive as 20 pounds. For a unit that can fit in a small apartment, you should consider one that can you can move around with ease without straining your shoulders. Many of the products in the review are lightweight, but you just want to confirm that you can comfortably work with it before making payments.

3. Size

The vacuum cleaner size is an important feature to consider when in the market for a unit for a small apartment. When working with limited space, you want a device that can easily be stored without looking out of place. You also want to take care not to end up with a small-sized unit that doesn't provide much suction, as it will also require frequent emptying of the dirt cup. A stick vacuum would work well in a small space, so will a handheld unit, but there are some brands of upright options that could also be considered.

4. Consider Pet

If you have a pet dog or cat that litters the space with fur, then you will need a vacuum option that works when it comes to eliminating both pet and human hair. Some of the products in the review are well suitable for sucking up tiny hair particles, but just in case you miss out on them, you should confirm by looking it up once more. You can find out how to remove pet hair with a vacuum in this video.

5. Durability

You could spend quite an amount of money on a brand new unit, and it only makes sense that you get your money's worth at the end of the day. It is common for many poorly designed vacuum cleaners to break down after a short time, so you want to ensure you buy quality. You can do this by purchasing from a notable manufacturer known for producing top class products. Most of the brands in the review are household names when it comes to vacuum cleaners, so you may have to start your search from there.

6. Allergies

If you worry much about allergies, you may want to purchase a unit with a superb filtration system. Living in an apartment, especially in a densely populated area could subject you to some dusty air when cleaning your living space. Brands that feature a HEPA filter are capable of eliminating up to 100% of the dirt from the air, making them suitable for those who suffer from allergies.

7. Extra Gear

You should also check if you will need additional gear for your cleaning, so you can find one that suits your needs. You can find products that include tools for cleaning pets hair and eliminating tough stains. Some others can equally be able to clean upholstery, ceiling, under furniture, or a crevice, so you want to consider all options available to you.

8. Price

A medium-sized, lightweight vacuum cleaner for an apartment could cost quite a lot, so you want to draw up a budget before going through the lot. On average, you will need to spend between $200 and $500 for a quality product, but that doesn't mean there are no other low priced options that are worth checking out.

9. Cord or Cordless

Another thing you will have to decide on is whether you want a device that features a power cord or one that is battery operated. Units with a power cable give you more extended cleaning time, whereas those with a power battery will only function for a brief period. Devices with cables can only provide a certain amount of workspace depending on the cord length, but for a small apartment, you can find a few of both options that are suitable for you.

FAQs

I have talked about how to shop for a quality product and will now answer some questions you may have when in the market for a vacuum cleaner.

My Top Pick

Shopping for a small vacuum cleaner for your apartment shouldn't leave you with a headache. You want to start the search by checking the buyer's guide above to know the features not to miss out on in a quality product. The review section could equally serve you to compare products before deciding on which one to pick. But just in case, the Shark Navigator NV356E is my best choice for an all-round vacuum cleaner.