Looking for the best upright vacuum cleaner to handle your cleaning needs? With so many options available, it can be hard to choose. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

We’ve tested top-rated upright vacuums to help you find the perfect one for your home, whether you have pets, allergies, or a mix of flooring.

From powerful bagless models to budget-friendly cordless options, we’ve analysed the best. Key factors like suction power, ease of use, and allergen control were central to our reviews. After thorough testing, here’s what we found:

Our Editor’s Pick is the Vacmaster Respira AllergenPro Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, offering dual motor technology, HEPA 13 filtration, and pet-friendly features for exceptional performance.

For versatility, the Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner is our Runner-Up, with Anti Hair Wrap technology and a Lift-Away feature for stairs and hard-to-reach areas. On a budget? The SINCHEREU 6-in-1 Cordless Upright Vacuum Cleaner is lightweight, powerful, and perfect for everyday cleaning.

We’ve also flagged one to avoid: the Eureka Upright Vacuum Cleaner UEU610, which struggled with suction and durability. Ready to find your perfect vacuum? Read on for detailed reviews and reclaim your clean, dust-free home!

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Key Features to Expect from Your Upright Vacuum

When buying the best upright vacuum, there are key features and functionalities you should expect as a standard. These are essential for ensuring the vacuum performs efficiently and meets your cleaning needs.

Features That Should Be a Given

• Strong Suction Power: Consistent, powerful suction is essential for effectively cleaning dirt, dust, and debris on both carpets and hard floors.
• HEPA Filtration: A high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter should capture at least 99.97% of small particles like allergens, dust mites, and pet dander.
• Multi-Surface Cleaning: The vacuum should seamlessly transition between carpets, hard floors, and rugs without manual adjustments.
• Easy Dustbin Emptying: Bagless designs should include a hygienic release mechanism for mess-free disposal.
• Durable Materials: The vacuum should feel sturdy and built to last, with high-quality components that resist wear and tear.

Norms to Look Out For

• Tangle-Free Brush Rolls: Anti-hair wrap technology should prevent tangles for hassle-free maintenance.
• Cord Length/Reach: A long power cord (at least 8 meters) or cordless models with extended battery life for convenient cleaning.
• Weight and Maneuverability: Lightweight or well-balanced designs to minimise strain during use.
• Warranty: At least a one-year warranty to ensure peace of mind with your purchase.

Design and Build Quality

The design and build quality of an upright vacuum directly impact its durability, usability, and performance.

• Sturdy Construction: Look for vacuums made with robust materials like reinforced plastic or aluminium components for longevity.
• Compact Storage: Foldable handles or slim designs are ideal for small storage spaces.
• Ergonomic Handle: Comfortable, non-slip handles make it easier to manoeuvre during long cleaning sessions.
• Mobility: Swivel steering and smooth-rolling wheels should allow easy navigation around furniture and tight corners.
• Noise Levels: Opt for models designed with sound insulation for quieter operation.

Elevate Your Cleaning with These Extra Features

While the basics are important, extra features can elevate the overall cleaning experience and add convenience.

• LED Lights: Built-in lights on the cleaning head help illuminate dirt and dust in dark corners and under furniture.
• Pet Hair Tools: Attachments like motorised pet brushes for efficiently removing embedded pet hair from upholstery and carpets.
• Lift-Away Functionality: Convertible designs that detach into handheld vacuums for stairs, upholstery, or car interiors.
• Smart Sensors: Advanced models with sensors to adjust suction power automatically based on floor type.
• Washable Filters: Reusable, washable filters reduce ongoing costs and are eco-friendly.
• Wall-Mounted Charging (Cordless vacuum cleaner models): A docking station for charging and organised storage of accessories.
• Allergen Seals: Complete sealing around the filtration system to ensure captured particles don’t escape back into the air.
• Digital Displays: Clear indicators for battery life, suction modes, or filter maintenance.

By considering these expectations, design elements, and extra features, you can make an informed decision when choosing the best upright vacuum for your needs.

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Editors Pick

Vacmaster Respira AllergenPro Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner

The Vacmaster Respira AllergenPro Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner stands out as a powerful, reliable cleaning solution for homes with pets, allergy sufferers, and varied flooring types. After putting it to the test, here’s what we found:

Key Features

• Deep Cleaning: Dual motor technology delivers consistent suction, tackling dirt and allergens on carpets and hard floors.
• Allergen Control: HEPA 13 filtration captures 99.9% of allergens like pollen and pet dander.
• Hygienic Design: A 2L dust bin minimises emptying, while the quick-release button ensures mess-free disposal.
• Multi-Surface Use: The cleaning head transitions smoothly between floors, and the extendable hose reaches tight spaces.
• Pet Hair Removal: The Pet Mate tool efficiently lifts embedded pet hair from carpets and furniture.

The Vacmaster Respira AllergenPro Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner impressed us with its power and thoughtful design. The dual motor technology maintained consistent suction, making it highly effective on both carpets and hard floors (even tackling embedded dirt and hair).

The HEPA 13 filtration system is a standout, capturing 99.9% of allergens—a lifesaver for allergy sufferers. We appreciated the convenience of the 2L dust bin and quick-release button, which made cleaning hassle-free.

The versatile design transitions seamlessly between surfaces, and the Pet Mate tool proved excellent at removing pet hair from furniture and carpets. The WrapFree brush roll is a clever touch, minimising maintenance needs.

However, it’s slightly heavy, and the hose could use a bit more length for cleaning stairs. That said, its overall performance and value for money make it a fantastic choice for most households. It’s a powerful, reliable vacuum we’d recommend.

Runner Up

Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner 1.1L with Anti Hair Wrap Technology

The Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner stands out as a reliable, efficient tool for deep cleaning. We’ve tested it extensively on various surfaces, and it delivers excellent performance, especially for homes with pets or high foot traffic.

Key Features

• Anti-Hair Wrap Technology: The brush roll effectively handles long, short, and pet hair without tangling, making it ideal for pet owners.
• Versatility with Lift-Away Mode: It transitions effortlessly into a portable vacuum for cleaning stairs, sofas, or reaching high areas.
• Dual Floor Modes: With adjustable suction, it handles carpets and hard floors with precision.
• LED Headlights: These illuminate hidden dust, helping target areas that are easy to miss in low light.
• Comprehensive Tools Included: The crevice tool, multi-surface tool, and 8-meter power cord provide flexible cleaning options.
• Anti-Allergen Complete Seal: This feature ensures allergens and dust are effectively captured, improving air quality.

The Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner impressed us with its exceptional suction power, easily lifting dust and debris even from carpets that seemed clean. Its Anti Hair Wrap Technology is a standout feature, effectively handling pet hair and keeping the brush-roll tangle-free.

The modular design (including the Lift-Away function) adds incredible versatility, making stairs, sofas, and high areas easy to clean. We also appreciated the dust collector, which is straightforward to empty, keeping maintenance hassle-free.

That said, the vacuum can feel heavy during extended use on carpets. While its sturdiness and strong suction are a trade-off, those seeking a lightweight option may prefer a cordless model.

Overall, this vacuum offers powerful cleaning, thoughtful features like LED headlights and dual floor modes, and excellent value for its capabilities. For anyone looking for a reliable tool to handle diverse cleaning tasks, this vacuum is an outstanding choice.

Budget Pick

SINCHEREU 6-in-1 Cordless Upright Vacuum Cleaner

We’ve had the opportunity to use the SINCHEREU 6-in-1 Cordless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, and it’s a solid performer for a variety of cleaning tasks. Here’s our take:

Key Features

• Strong Suction Power: Its 300W motor and 30,000 Kpa suction handle pet hair, dust, and debris on hard floors and tiles.
• Versatile Design: Easily converts to a handheld vacuum with tools like extension tubes, crevice nozzles, and square brushes.
• Lightweight and Maneuverable: At 2.0kg, it’s simple to handle with one hand. The LED-lit, rotatable brush head effortlessly reaches corners.
• Extended Run Time: The 2200mAh battery provides up to 45 minutes of cleaning, depending on the mode.
• Advanced Filtration: The 5-stage system captures 99.97% of particles, ideal for allergy sufferers. Washable HEPA filters add convenience.
• Space-Saving Charging: A wall-mounted station charges fully in four hours and stores accessories.

We tested the SINCHEREU 6-in-1 Cordless Upright Vacuum Cleaner and found it to be a reliable, efficient cleaning tool. Its powerful 300W motor and 30,000 Kpa suction handled pet hair, dust, and debris with ease (especially on hard floors).

The lightweight design (just 2.0kg) and rotatable brush head made it incredibly easy to manoeuvre, even in tight spaces, while the LED light helped illuminate dark corners.

The versatile design, with interchangeable tools, allowed seamless conversion into a handheld vacuum, perfect for smaller cleaning tasks. Its advanced 5-stage filtration system was impressive, capturing 99.97% of particles—a real plus for allergy sufferers.

On the downside, the 1.2-litre dustbin required occasional emptying during longer cleaning sessions. However, the extended 45-minute run time and convenient wall-mounted charging station more than made up for it.

Overall, this vacuum combines strong performance and practicality, making it a fantastic choice for everyday cleaning needs.

Best Upright Vacuum For Pets Pick

Ewbank EW3001 Motion Pet Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner

The Ewbank EW3001 Motion Pet Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful, lightweight solution for maintaining clean carpets and hard floors. After using it extensively, we’ve found it delivers exceptional performance and convenience.

Key Features

• Powerful 700W Motor: Its robust motor effectively removes dirt and pet hair from carpets and hard floors, making it versatile for different surfaces.
• Cyclonic Filtration System: This system ensures strong and consistent suction, helping to capture dust and allergens with ease.
• Air Swivel Technology: Maneuvering around furniture and tight spaces is simple, reducing the effort required for thorough cleaning.
• Lightweight and Compact Design: At just 4.6 kg, it’s easy to carry and use throughout the home without strain.
• Multiple Cleaning Tools: The 3-in-1 crevice tool is versatile for furniture, hard surfaces, and tight corners. Additionally, the pet turbo brush excels at tackling stubborn pet hair.

The Ewbank EW3001 Motion Pet Upright Vacuum Cleaner is a fantastic choice for effortless and efficient cleaning. We were impressed by its powerful 700W motor, which excels at lifting dirt and pet hair from carpets and hard floors.

Its cyclonic filtration system ensures consistent suction, while the lightweight design (just 4.6 kg) makes it easy to manoeuvre, especially for those who find heavier vacuums challenging.

The large 3L capacity reduces the hassle of frequent emptying, and the included tools—like the pet turbo brush and 3-in-1 crevice tool—add versatility for different surfaces and tight spaces. It’s easy to assemble and even easier to maintain.

Although the build feels slightly less robust than more expensive models, the performance more than compensates for this minor drawback.

Overall, we found it to be an excellent, budget-friendly vacuum cleaner that delivers exceptional value without sacrificing performance or convenience. A smart, reliable pick!

Easy To Use Upright Vacuum Pick

Shark Stratos XL 2.6 Litre Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner

We recently tested the Shark Stratos XL Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner and were impressed with its performance and thoughtful features.

Key Features

• Exceptional Hair Pick-Up: Designed with Anti Hair Wrap Plus technology, it effortlessly removes long, short, and pet hair from the brush roll.
• Versatile Floor Cleaning: DuoClean technology transitions seamlessly between carpets and hard floors.
• Odour Control: The anti-odour technology keeps your home smelling fresh by reducing unpleasant smells inside the vacuum.
• Generous Capacity: The XL 2.6-litre dust cup means fewer trips to empty it, making it ideal for deep cleans and busy households.
• Portable Convenience: Powered Lift-Away functionality allows easy cleaning of stairs, ceilings, and under furniture with minimal effort.
• Customisable Tools: Includes a crevice tool, pet tool, and multi-surface tool for tackling various cleaning tasks.

We tested the Shark Stratos XL Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner and were impressed with its outstanding performance and well-designed features. It delivers powerful suction, leaving carpets refreshed and spotless while handling hard floors with ease.

The Powered Lift-Away feature made cleaning stairs and tight spaces a breeze, adding versatility to the experience.

Its robust build quality and ergonomic design ensure durability and comfort, though it’s slightly heavy (something to consider if portability is key). The anti-odour puck is a thoughtful addition, keeping your home smelling fresh, but replacements might be tricky to find.

Despite being corded, the 8m power cord offered plenty of reach, reducing interruptions.

Overall, this vacuum is a standout choice for households with pets or heavy cleaning needs. With its exceptional cleaning power and useful features, it’s a reliable investment for maintaining a clean and fresh home.

One To Avoid

Eureka Upright Vacuum Cleaner UEU610 with 2.2L Dust Cup

We tested the Eureka UEU610 and found it lacking in several key areas, making it hard to recommend.

While the vacuum includes some convenient features, such as a large 2.2L dust cup (reducing the need for frequent emptying) and LED headlights for better visibility, the drawbacks far outweigh these positives.

The suction power, despite its dual motor and cyclone technology, feels underwhelming on thicker carpets. It struggles with heavy debris and requires additional passes to clean effectively. The Anti-Hair Wrap brush roll, while innovative, still struggles with long hair, which can cause tangles.

Build quality is another major concern. The vacuum feels flimsy, and components such as the belt and filter system appear poorly constructed. During use, we experienced issues with the filter casing popping off and found the belt to be overly thin, raising questions about its durability.

Additionally, the cord length (6m) is insufficient for larger spaces, requiring frequent unplugging. While it’s lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, these benefits don’t compensate for the vacuum's overall inefficiency and reliability issues.

Ultimately, we believe the Eureka UEU610 is a budget option best avoided. It may work for small spaces with minimal cleaning needs, but for most homes, it’s simply not up to the task.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Upright Vacuums

When evaluating upright vacuums, we went beyond surface-level assessments. Each model was rigorously tested to determine its performance, usability, and overall value. Here’s how we approached the task:

Performance Testing

We tested suction power across multiple surfaces, including thick carpets, hard floors, and rugs, to ensure each vacuum could handle embedded dirt and larger debris without scattering.

To evaluate edge cleaning, we used the vacuums along baseboards and corners, noting their effectiveness in hard-to-reach areas. Deep cleaning tests included embedding sand and pet hair into carpets to measure how quickly and thoroughly the vacuums tackled challenging messes.

Filtration and Allergen Control

For homes with allergy sufferers, filtration systems were key. We tested HEPA filters by measuring air quality before and after use in enclosed spaces, ensuring allergens were effectively captured.

Vacuums with sealed systems were checked for leakage to confirm they contained dust and allergens during operation.

Usability and Design

To assess user experience, we considered weight, manoeuvrability, and how easily vacuums navigated around furniture. We evaluated the transition between floor types, ensuring smooth operation without manual adjustments.

Dustbin design was another focus—models with quick, mess-free emptying mechanisms scored higher. Cord length and noise levels were also measured, ensuring practicality for larger spaces and quieter operations.

Attachments and Features

Specialised tools were put to the test. Pet hair removal attachments were used on upholstery to evaluate efficiency, while crevice tools tackled tight spaces.

Versatile designs, such as models with detachable handheld functions or Lift-Away options, were assessed for their ability to clean stairs and high areas.

Durability and Build Quality

We inspected materials for sturdiness, focusing on high-wear components like brush rolls, hoses, and handles. Stress tests simulated extended use and occasional drops to gauge durability. Maintenance needs, such as cleaning tangled hair from brush rolls, were also evaluated.

Battery Life and Charging

For cordless models, we carefully measured runtime across multiple power modes to assess how long each vacuum could sustain effective cleaning. Charging speed was also tested to determine how quickly the vacuum was ready for reuse.

We noted the convenience of charging stations and the availability of wall-mounted docks for organised storage. Additional considerations included the ease of accessing charging ports and whether battery packs were removable for added flexibility.

Extra Features

Advanced features were rigorously tested for both practicality and added value. LED lights were evaluated to ensure they effectively illuminated hidden dust and debris, particularly in low-light areas or under furniture.

Smart sensors were assessed for their ability to adjust suction power automatically based on floor type, improving efficiency. Digital displays were scrutinised for clarity, tracking important metrics such as battery life, filter maintenance, and suction settings.

Features like washable filters and multi-use accessories were also considered for their contribution to overall convenience.

Value for Money

We carefully compared each vacuum’s features, build quality, and performance to its price, identifying models that provided the best value. Vacuums with premium features that significantly enhanced usability or cleaning power scored higher, particularly when paired with competitive pricing.

Long-Term Testing

To evaluate reliability and durability, we used the vacuums extensively over time, monitoring suction consistency and filter longevity. We paid close attention to maintenance requirements, including how frequently parts like filters, belts, or brush rolls needed replacement or cleaning.

Models that maintained performance with minimal upkeep scored higher in this category.

Real-World Scenarios

Finally, we tested each vacuum in real-world environments, including homes with pets, children, and allergy sufferers. These tests provided valuable feedback on how well the vacuums adapted to diverse cleaning challenges, such as managing pet hair, high-traffic areas, or delicate flooring.

User experiences helped us determine which models truly excelled across a range of household needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the Difference Between a Standard Vacuum and an Upright Vacuum?

The difference between a standard vacuum and an upright vacuum lies in design and functionality. Upright vacuums are a specific type of vacuum cleaner with a single unit housing the motor, dustbin, and cleaning head, making them ideal for deep-cleaning large areas.

Standard vacuums include a broader category, such as canister or handheld models, offering different use cases.

Are Upright Vacuums Suitable for Hard Floors?

Yes, upright vacuums are suitable for hard floors. Many modern upright models feature adjustable suction settings or specialised brush rolls designed to clean hard floors without causing scratches.

Multi-surface capabilities allow them to transition seamlessly between carpets and hard floors for effective cleaning.

What Is the Common Problem for an Upright Vacuum?

The common problem for an upright vacuum is clogged filters or brush rolls, often caused by hair, debris, or dust accumulation. This can reduce suction power and cleaning efficiency.

Regular maintenance, such as emptying the dustbin, cleaning the filter, and checking the brush roll, helps prevent these issues.

What Is a Good Upright Vacuum Pressure?

A good upright vacuum pressure depends on its suction power, typically measured in air watts (AW). A range of 100–200 AW is considered sufficient for most household cleaning tasks, ensuring effective dirt and debris removal from carpets and hard floors.

How Much Maintenance Do Upright Vacuums Require?

Upright vacuums require moderate maintenance. Regular tasks include emptying the dustbin or replacing bags, cleaning or replacing filters, untangling hair from the brush roll, and occasionally checking for clogs in hoses. Keeping up with these tasks ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Are Corded or Cordless Upright Vacuums Better?

The choice between corded and cordless upright vacuums depends on cleaning needs. Corded models provide continuous power and stronger suction, ideal for large spaces.

Cordless vacuums offer convenience, portability, and freedom from outlets, making them suitable for quick, flexible cleaning in smaller areas.

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Final Word

We hope our best upright vacuum cleaner guide has helped you find the right fit for your home. With so many great options, it’s not an easy choice, but our Editor’s Pick, the Vacmaster Respira AllergenPro, stands out.

Its powerful suction, HEPA 13 filtration, and pet-friendly design make it a top performer on all surfaces. If you’re looking for value, the SINCHEREU 6-in-1 Cordless Upright Vacuum Cleaner is a lightweight, budget-friendly choice.

Meanwhile, the Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner impressed us with its Anti Hair Wrap technology and versatile Lift-Away feature.

However, not all models delivered. The Eureka UEU610 Upright Vacuum Cleaner disappointed with poor suction, durability issues, and struggles on thicker carpets, making it hard to recommend.

What do you think of our guide? Found your perfect vacuum, or still deciding? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!