Here are the best and most powerful handheld vacuum cleaners on the market for vacuuming solids, liquids, hair, and animal hair, and how to choose which one to buy based on your needs.
A handheld vacuum cleaner is a small appliance for cleaning the kitchen. To remove crumbs, flour, grains, and many other residues from the table or kitchen shelves, you need a light and portable accessory that is always ready for use.
Anyone who thinks that has already had a vacuum cleaner does not need a handheld vacuum cleaner is mistaken. In reality, the handheld vacuum cleaner is a complementary household appliance to the vacuum cleaner. Its job is to save time and effort in cleaning.
If we vacuum it every time we pour something, the kitchen stays cleaner for longer. For example, if we open a shelf and overturn a box of biscuits, the mini vacuum cleaner is the most accessible and immediate solution.
The handheld vacuum cleaner is perfect for quickly cleaning sofas and armchairs to remove food residues or pet hair, cleaning dust from bookcases, or between PC keys. All this without starting the vacuum cleaner, which will be dedicated to complete and thorough room cleaning.
The handheld vacuum cleaner is perfect for cleaning car seats and floor mats for handling and versatility. Furthermore, we can choose a handheld vacuum cleaner that sucks up solids and liquids if we want complete cleaning.
Today, most handheld vacuum cleaners are battery-operated, often equipped with a charging station to always be at hand and ready to use.
Table of Contents
How to choose a handheld vacuum cleaner: Types and Characteristics
To choose the best handheld vacuum cleaner suited to our needs, we must consider whether we already have a vacuum cleaner. The handheld vacuum cleaner will be destined for its essential action in the kitchen or other rooms.
If, on the other hand, we do not have a vacuum cleaner, we can take the opportunity to choose a top-of-the-range handheld vacuum cleaner that includes more functions or a 2-in-1 electric broom that turns into a handheld vacuum cleaner.
Structure
The most common structure of a handheld vacuum cleaner provides for the tank forward immediately after the suction nozzle, while the motor is located at the rear. The design is cylindrical and slightly curved forward. This structure allows you to vacuum better with less power because there is no distance between the nozzle and the tank.
Lately, many handheld vacuum cleaners have been made with a structure similar to a mini vacuum cleaner, with the motor and the tank in the back, under the handle, and a longer suction nozzle. This solution is beneficial in multifunction models, designed to vacuum on multiple surfaces and even reach the interstices. Furthermore, this type of nozzle or tube allows the attachment of more accessories.
Diet
The mini vacuum cleaner can be powered by electricity or with rechargeable batteries. This results in a general division between cordless handheld and corded handheld vacuum cleaners. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages.
Cordless handheld vacuum cleaner
Most of the handheld vacuum cleaner models are equipped with a rechargeable battery. It is the most convenient solution because the obstruction of the cable does not help to clean small spaces. Furthermore, the handheld vacuum cleaner does not require the same power as the vacuum cleaner.
When choosing the battery vacuum cleaner, we check the charging times and the autonomy. Charging times can range from 1 to 5 hours for the mid-to-high-end models and 16 hours for the cheaper models.
Can provide a charging station for recharging the battery. The charging station makes it even easier to have the mini vacuum cleaner available because it will always charge it and be ready for use.
As for the autonomy, when we can use the cordless vacuum cleaner before charging it again, it can range from 8-10 minutes to 30-45 minutes. The difference is considerable and depends significantly on how we intend to use the handheld vacuum cleaner. We do not need much autonomy if we want to leave it to its primary function, to eliminate crumbs and food residues in the kitchen or when we munch popcorn on the sofa.
On the other hand, if we want to use the handheld vacuum cleaner to thoroughly clean sofas and armchairs and clean inside the furniture and on the shelves to eliminate dust, then it is better to focus on a handheld vacuum cleaner with more extended autonomy. This type of handheld vacuum cleaner is also the most suitable for use in the car.
A handheld vacuum cleaner with a cable
The handheld vacuum cleaner with the cable does not need to be recharged and has almost unlimited autonomy as it is powered by electricity. The models with cable are on sale are very few, but we also find the 2 in 1 electric broom.
They are multifunctional appliances to clean the house based on the accessories mounted to the main body. Without mounting the accessories, we have the portable handheld vacuum cleaner available.
This solution is attractive for those who do not already own vacuum cleaners and electric brooms. However, the difference lies in the structure and the appliance’s power, regarding the suction power and the motor’s power in watts.
Most handheld vacuum cleaner models have a cable length of 5 – 10 feet.
We also consider those equipped with the cable with the 12 V connection for the car cigarette lighter among the cordless handheld vacuum cleaners. Thus, we can thoroughly clean the car seats and parts with this appliance without worrying about autonomy.
Power
The power of the handheld vacuum cleaner is evaluated with two parameters: the power absorbed in watts and the suction power. The absorbed power gives us an idea of the power of the engine. For example, small handheld vacuum cleaners have power between 15 and 30 watts, while the top-of-the-range models can reach 50 watts. Most of the time, these are cordless handheld vacuum cleaners.
On the other hand, an electric broom with a mini vacuum cleaner easily exceeds 500 watts of power and is powered by cable. In this case, a more powerful motor is suitable for working longer without overheating and produces greater suction force.
The second parameter, which derives from the wattage power and the structure and technology of the handheld vacuum cleaner, is the suction power or suction force. For those wishing to learn more from a technical point of view, this power is expressed differently by the various manufacturers.
Sometimes we can find the indication of pressure units in PA (pascal), for which a cheap handheld vacuum cleaner can suck about 8000 pa, or in millibars. In our example, it corresponds to 80 mbar. But, of course, you can still use liters per second or air watts.
We must also consider the power based on the use we will make of our handheld vacuum cleaner. Vacuuming crumbs and food residues from hard surfaces does not require great power, so a lower wattage does not compromise the functionality of our handheld vacuum cleaner.
On the contrary, if we intend to use the handheld vacuum cleaner on sofas and fabrics, remove animal hair, or if we do not have another vacuum cleaner and intend to use it intensively, we must focus on medium and high-power handheld vacuum cleaners.
Reservoir
The tank of the handheld vacuum cleaner is used to contain the sucked-up dirt. Almost all of the handheld vacuum cleaners on the market are now bagless and are equipped with unique systems for emptying the tank directly into the garbage.
These are tried and tested mechanisms that allow you not to touch any internal part with your hands, and simply a button opens the flap tank to let the contents fall. In other cases, removing the tank from the machine body and emptying it manually will be necessary.
The tank capacity varies between 100ml and 700-800ml. This data is closely linked to the size and power of the handheld vacuum cleaner and its autonomy. We find small 100 ml tanks in the smallest and minimum power handheld vacuum cleaners, while the larger and more powerful handheld vacuum cleaners are also equipped with a larger tank.
Of course, the larger tank allows us to work longer, but it does not significantly limit the operational autonomy, given the ease of emptying it.
Some handheld vacuum cleaners have a transparent tank to see when it is complete and needs to be emptied. In other cases, a light indicator warns us to empty it.
Although it does not have to be done every time, the internal cleaning of most tanks can be done with a damp cloth, while in some cases, it is possible to remove the tank and wash it under running water, then reassemble it after drying.
Vacuum cleaner for liquids
Particular models of handheld vacuum cleaners can suck up solids and liquids. They are instrumental in cleaning up water, fruit juices, and milk spills and remedy minor household accidents in seconds. We look for the word wet-dry to recognize them, which indicates working with all waste.
We can have two separate tanks for dry and liquid handheld vacuum cleaners, one for liquids and one for solid waste. Other times we have a single tank available.
Cyclonic technology
Once reserved for high-end vacuum cleaners, Cyclone technology is also present in many handheld vacuum cleaners. In practice, a centrifugal force inside the tank creates a small cyclone that can separate the waste from the air with greater efficiency and speed.
Afterward, the air passes through the filters. Still, by this point, the cyclonic action has already eliminated most of the dirt, including the smallest particles, making the work of the filters even easier. Thus, cyclone technology and high-end filters help maintain a healthy environment.
Filtration system
The filtering system is the heart of any vacuum appliance, and the mini vacuum cleaner is no exception. Filters are made of different materials, such as plastic, microfiber, or metal. Therefore, many of them need to be replaced after some time, for example, a few weeks or after a certain number of aspirations. Other more resistant filters are washable and last longer but must be replaced, for example, every six months or a year.
Cleaning and periodically replacing the filters and ensuring better hygiene and air quality in the home help keep the handheld vacuum cleaner in perfect condition. Too dirty filters tend to clog appliances and damage the motor, both because it could end up with dust and because it tends to strain more during suction.
The filtering system can include one or more filters, the first as a prefilter to retain the largest residues, the second for dust, and sometimes a third for allergens and smaller particles to ensure that the air introduced into the environment is free of residues.
The HEPA filter is currently the most efficient of all the filtration systems because it can retain 99% of particles, including allergens. Therefore, it is the most suitable filter for asthma or allergies.
Handle
The handle of the handheld vacuum cleaner is a part to consider when this appliance is used for a long time and frequently.
The smaller models have an easy handle grip that is useful if the vacuum cleaner is small and light. However, design models with minimal construction don’t offer much grip, while more traditional handheld vacuums have an ergonomic grip with finger grooves underneath the handle.
When the size and weight increase, choose a handheld vacuum cleaner with a handle grip, which can grasp better to support all the weight and guide the nozzle in the right direction. The handle grip, together with the shape of the handheld vacuum cleaner, favors the arm’s correct position and prevents the handheld vacuum from slipping out of your hand.
However, you will notice that in some handheld vacuum cleaners, the handle grips are tiny and unsuitable for those with large hands, so the handling they should favor is lost.
Speed
While cheap handheld vacuum cleaners almost always have a fixed suction speed, some medium-high-range models allow you to select the suction speed or power. In this case, we can calibrate the speed according to the cases.
For example, a minimum level is enough when we vacuum simple crumbs on a shelf or the table, while we need more power when we vacuum crumbs and residues from fabrics and soft surfaces. Power is also needed to detach hair and hair from sofas and armchairs.
LED light
The LED light is placed on the front of the mini vacuum, and we need to illuminate the area. It is beneficial when we clean the car, for example, under the seats, but it is also excellent at home, for example, cleaning under the sofa cushions or eating in front of the TV with the lights off.
Display and indicators
The handheld vacuum cleaner is equipped with light indicators that indicate the ignition status and warn you to empty the tank or charge the handheld vacuum. In addition, some top-of-the-range models are equipped with a small LCD that indicates the battery status.
Commands
The on and off button for the Mini Vac is always located on the handle. This way, we can handle it and reach the button with one finger. If there is a speed selector, this is always next to the power button, or we find the same button that acts as ignition and speed selection.
The tank release button can also be found on the handle when the mini vacuum cleaner is equipped with a quick release, opening the tank without removing it. But on the other hand, it must obliterate the tank, and the release button is located on the tank, not the handle. Therefore, you must open it with two hands.
Wall support
The wall bracket is available with some models of handheld vacuum cleaners. It is mounted on the wall with screws or attached with adhesives and supports the handheld vacuum cleaner. In this way, we always keep it available without having to put it away and take it out every time, and above all, we do not take up space on the kitchen shelves.
Furthermore, the ideal position of the wall mount is on the same wall where we have a power socket, so we can take advantage of the same position while the vacuum cleaner is charging, and at the same time, it will be easier to remember to charge it.
Extensions and brushes
The handheld vacuum cleaner has a rather large nozzle to quickly collect as much as possible. In addition, some models include one or more accessories for cleaning different surfaces or materials.
- Brush for fabrics. The fabric brush, usually small, is used to clean sofas and armchairs. In this case, the fibers of the fabrics retain a lot of dust, hair, and hair, so a specific brush helps to vacuum deeply.
- Nozzle for crevices. We need an elongated and flat nozzle to clean between the folds of the sofa or car seats or reach the kitchen corners.
- Telescopic tube. The telescopic tube is an extension we need to get to the most difficult points without leaning out too much or bowing. It can be combined with multiple types of brushes in different sizes. Longer telescopic tubes are typical of floor vacuums.
- Floor brush. This type of brush is reserved for electric handheld brooms, allowing us to clean all hard floors more efficiently and naturally without bending down.
- Motorized brush. The motorized brush is equipped with a rotating movement of the bristles that helps to catch even the hair and hair. It is perfect when there are pets in the house.
Noisiness
The noise produced by the handheld vacuum cleaner can be a problem at certain times of the day or night. Many models reach 70 dB of sound level, but some silent handheld vacuum cleaners do not exceed 20 dB. We consider the latter if we want to use the vacuum cleaner early in the morning, after breakfast, or after dinner. We avoid disturbing other people who are sleeping.
Dimensions and weight
Handheld vacuum cleaners are compact appliances, but the size and weight must be carefully considered by those who have little space and want a handy appliance.
In this regard, we find compact handheld vacuum cleaners in every price range, which do not exceed 12″ in length and 4″-5″ in thickness. A handheld vacuum cleaner rarely exceeds 51″0 in length and 8″ in thickness. Of course, these measurements indicate the machine body without accessories and extensions.
As for the weight, we find ultralight handheld vacuum cleaners weighing less than 2 lbs convenient and easy to use. Other models can exceed 2 lbs but rarely exceed 4 lbs unless discussing multifunctional appliances such as electric brooms.
Accessories
Among the accessories supplied with the handheld vacuum cleaner, in addition to extensions and brushes, we find several useful objects. The replacement filter is in many kits and allows for a ready-to-use replacement.
Brushes for cleaning washable filters are handy for removing any residue or coarser dirt before washing the filter.
The carrying bag is a less common accessory but great for keeping everything in order, especially if we choose a model with many accessories.
The Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaner
Below is the complete selection of the best handheld vacuum cleaners to buy with their respective characteristics.
- 1 BRAND IN HAND VACS
- OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE - Lithium-ion battery provides high power suction and performance
- CORDLESS CONVENIENCE - Portable, rechargeable, + lightweight for use around your home and...
- #1 BRAND IN HAND VACS** OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE - 16V MAX* lithium-ion battery provides high...
- CORDLESS CONVENIENCE - Portable, rechargeable, + lightweight for use around your home and...
- MULTI-SURFACE USE – Removes hair, dirt, debris, and pet hair from carpets, car...
- 🔋【Rechargeable Battery and Fast Charging】The Electric Vacuum Cleaner has a built-in...
- ⚡【Powerful Air Duster and Vacuum Cleaner 2 in 1】Our Vacuum Cleaner has two...
- 💎【Effortless Maintenance】With just one-click dismantling, you can easily dump...
- 【Upgraded Technology for Ultimate Cleaning Power】The upgraded cordless handheld vacuum...
- 【Lightweight & Cordless Design】This mini vacuum cleaner only weighs 1.6lb with a...
- 【Long Battery Life and Fast Charging】With multiple 2000mAh lithium-ion batteries and...
- Buy Bissell, save pets; Bissell will donate 5 dollars for each pet hair eraser Li Ion...
- Remove more embedded dirt and pet hair with a motorized brush tool and lithium ion...
- 14V lithium ion battery for lithium powered cleaning; Dirt cup capacity: 0.7 Litres
- 【Quick charge & Long endurance】A 2,000 mAh battery is placed in the compact car vacuum...
- 【Mini & ligntweight】Handheld vacuum cordless is always used in places where charging...
- 【Various Accessories】Use the Crevice Nozzle to focus suction on dust in the...
- #1 BRAND IN HAND VACS**
- OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE - 20V MAX* lithium-ion battery provides high suction power and...
- CORDLESS CONVENIENCE - Portable, rechargeable, + lightweight for use as a home and car...
- MULTI-SURFACE USE – Removes hair, dirt, and debris from carpets, car interiors,...
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND PORTABLE – Easy to carry and maneuver, even in tight spaces.
- CREVICE TOOL – Accesses hard-to-reach areas like between couch cushions and on top of...
- ⭐【SUCTION & BLOW 2-IN-1 VACUUM CLEANER】This handheld vacuum cleaner has both suction...
- 💡【16000PA POWERFUL SUCTION CORDLESS VACUUM CLEANER】This portable cordless car...
- 🔋【Type-C FAST AND CONVENIENT CHARGING】The portable cordless car vacuum uses a...
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