Best Vacuum Cleaner UK – 2022 Complete Guide

In a hurry? Best Budget Choice: Henry Hoover HVR160 | Best Overall Choice: Dyson V11 Absolute

If there is one thing that we can all agree on, it’s that cleanliness is an important part of running a home. A messy and dirty living area is bad for our health and it doesn’t give a good impression to visitors.

The main annoyance of cleaning our home is using cleaning tools that are not sufficient for the job in hand. If you have a vacuum cleaner that does not pick up dirt, the feelings of frustration will ultimately lead to you giving up and not finish cleaning your floors.

There are hundreds of vacuum cleaners on the market today, and they are usually designed to deal with specific things, such as stairs, pet hair, carpets, or wooden floors.

There are also other aspects that you need to decide on – corded or cordless, bagged or bagless, upright or cylinder. With so many models out there, how are you supposed to find the best vacuum cleaner for your needs?

That is the reason I have put together this guide, to help you with your decision. I have spent hundreds of hours researching, comparing, and reviewing vacuum cleaners so you can be sure the ones that I recommend are the very best in their category.

I have placed these models into their own specific category, so no matter what your circumstances are, you will find the perfect vacuum cleaner for your situation.

Dyson V11 Absolute – Best Vacuum Cleaner UK Overall

Dyson have really raised the bar with their latest cordless vacuum, and the performance is so good that they will no longer produce corded vacuum cleaners.

The Dyson V11 Absolute is a versatile, powerful machine that has the very latest technological advances to ensure it’s as easy and efficient as possible to clean your floors. It is not cheap by any means, but if you want the very best cleaning power at your disposal, then this is for you.

INTEGRATED LCD SCREEN FOR INTELLIGENT REPORTING

The main design feature of the Dyson V11 Absolute is the addition of an LCD screen that is integrated onto the top of the vacuum. Now, an LCD screen on a cordless vacuum may seem like a gimmick, but it is actually really useful.

For starters, if there are any problems with the vacuum such as a blockage or the filters needing to be changed, the display will alert you to the problem. Not only that, but it will play you a short instructional video on how to rectify the problem.

The screen will also show what cleaning mode you are using, removing the frustration of using a higher power mode when you don’t need it, and wasting battery life.

The battery run time is also displayed on the screen, giving you an exact time of how much cleaning time you have left to the second. It is intelligent enough to adjust this time depending on what mode you are using.

POWER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR EFFICIENT CLEANING

The Dyson V11 is a technological wonder, and the power management feature is genius. The main benefit of this is more efficient cleaning and improved battery life.

In previous Dyson models, there is a button to switch between various power modes, depending on what surface you are cleaning. This is a good method, but Dyson have taken efficiency to the next level.

If you put the vacuum in auto mode, the Dynamic Load Sensor (DLS) kicks in. What this does is monitor the resistance of the brush bar, and adjusts the power accordingly.

If you are cleaning a wooden floor, for instance, there will be no resistance so the power will decrease. Move onto the carpet, however, and you can hear the power increasing as the resistance increases.

The power management system greatly increases battery life and ensures you get as close to the 60 minutes run time as possible.

FILTRATION AND DUST BIN

The Dyson V11 Absolute comes with a washable HEPA filter, which is essential for anyone who suffers from allergies. The vacuum has a fully sealed filtration system, meaning everything that is sucked up stays in the machine.

The dust bin has a 0.76-litre capacity, which I hope will be increased in the future. It is quite large for a cordless model but is nowhere near some of the bigger bagged vacuums.

Because the suction is so powerful, you will probably find yourself emptying this regularly, which I suppose is a good thing as it means there is less dirt on your floors. Also, it is more eco-friendly than using bags and is very simple to empty.

The Dyson V11 is a next-level cleaning powerhouse, and no other vacuum comes close to it. You need to look at it as an investment as it is expensive, but the technology and range of features mean that this is the only vacuum you need to ensure your home is clean.

Pros

• Up to 60 minutes of fade-free suction power
• 40% bigger dust bin than previous Dyson cordless models
• Intergrated LCD screen – battery, filter and blockage alerts

Cons

• Very expensive
• Trigger operation may not be suitable for some

Shark DuoClean IF250UKT – Best Cordless Vacuum

The Shark DuoClean IF250UKT is Shark’s best-selling cordless vacuum cleaner, and it’s easy to see why. It is loaded with the latest technology to help you clean faster and more efficient, and the twin batteries allow you to clean for longer.

Shark has positioned itself to be one of the top vacuum cleaner brands in the UK, and while they are still expensive, they are seen as a cheaper alternative to Dyson. The IF250UKT is on a par with the latest Dyson cordless models, and it offers powerful and versatile cleaning for all surfaces in your home.

DUOCLEAN AND FLEXOLOGY TECHNOLOGIES

Just like the Dyson, the Shark Duoclean IF250UKT is full of the latest technology to aid you in your cleaning mission. Two of the most attractive features of this vacuum – DuoClean and Flexology – are what make it stand out from the rest of the cordless market.

DuoClean is the term used to describe the main cleaning head, which has two brush rolls instead of the standard one. There is a soft roller designed for hard surfaces, and a bristle brush which cleans deep into the carpet fibres.

There is no front wall on the vacuum head as this has been replaced by the soft roller brush, so instead of pushing debris around the room, the soft roller ensures nothing escapes.

Flexology is another interesting feature that is included in the Shark IF250UKT. The problem with most stick vacuums is that they are rigid, making it hard to clean under furniture and in tight areas.

Flexology is the solution to this problem, and Shark cordless vacuums have a hinge in the middle of the main body. This enables you to physically bend the vacuum, making it much more manoeuvrable. It also means you can fold the vacuum in half, saving storage room.

DESIGNED FOR PET OWNERS

The Shark IF250UKT is a TruePet model and is designed for use in homes with pets. Even if you don’t have pets this is still a great machine, and the added tools and accessories are perfect for removing stubborn pet hair.

As mentioned above, the main cleaning head has a bristle brush roll which is great for removing pet hair from carpets. Where this machine really stands out, however, is the Motorised Pet Tool. You can attach this to the vacuum to tackle any pet hair that won’t budge normally.

The Shark IF250UKT can be converted into a handheld vacuum and if you attach the Pet Tool to the handheld, you have a powerful mobile pet hair remover which you can use on carpets, stairs, and in your car.

Other tools and accessories include a crevice tool, upholstery tool, dusting brush, anti-allergen dusting brush, and a double battery charging dock. There is also an accessory tote bag to keep all of your tools in.

The Shark IF250UKT is an affordable alternative to the Dyson V11 that won’t break the bank. It has powerful suction and an excellent range of accessories. The DuoClean and Flexology technologies make this a versatile and efficient cordless vacuum.

Pros

• DuoClean cleaning head for excellent performance on carpets and hard floors
• Flexology technology allows you to easily clean hard-to-reach areas
• Very versatile – can convert into a handheld cleaner

Cons

• Dust container needs to emptied frequently
• Needs to be cleaned more often that a bagged vacuum

Henry Hoover HVR160 – Best Budget Vacuum

Henry is a British icon, and it’s not just his cheeky smile that makes him so popular. With powerful suction, a large canister, and a range of tools for any cleaning situation, Henry Hoover HVR160 is an affordable vacuum cleaner that will fit most people’s budget.

Henry may not have all the bells and whistles of the latest cordless vacuum cleaners, but for a fraction of the price you get simple, no fuss cleaning power that will leave your home clean and dirt-free.

LARGE 6-LITRE DUST CAPACITY

One of Henry’s most appealing features is his large 6-litre dust capacity. This is one of the largest vacuum capacities on the market, and for the price, it is very generous.

Henry uses Numatic’s own HepaFlo dust bags which have a self-seal tab to trap in the dirt, and although the bags aren’t expensive, you won’t have to change them very often.

The HepaFlow bags are great if you suffer from allergies, as the self-seal tab ensures there is no cloud of dust when the time comes to change it. All of the dirt and debris stays inside the bag, and this is essential for preventing any allergens from escaping back into the room.

EXTRA-LONG REACH AND SIMPLE FLOOR HEAD

One of the reasons Henry is so popular in the UK is that he has an incredibly long reach. The 10-metre long power cable coupled with the 2.3-metre long hose ensures that you will spend less time changing power sockets as you clean.

This long reach means that Henry is actually very good for cleaning your car, which is not something you can say about most corded vacuums. He also has an impressive array of tools which makes him an ideal car cleaner.

The cleaning head is as simple as they come, with a switch to bring the brushes up or down. This is very effective for cleaning different surfaces and the brushes are usually used for cleaning hard surfaces, although they can work well on carpets too.

IMPRESSIVE RANGE OF TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES

Henry comes with the AS0 Combo Toolkit as standard, which includes 9 different tools and accessories. Henry comes with the following:

• 2 X extension tubes
• Crevice tool
• Tool adapter
• Soft dusting brush
• Upholstery nozzle
• Tube bend with volume control
• ProFlo combination nozzle
• FloMax hose
• Brush for upholstery nozzle

The crevice tool and upholstery nozzle are the two most useful accessories, and they ensure that Henry can clean every surface of your home. If you have pets and have to deal with a lot of pet hair, then there are separate floor heads you can purchase that are specifically designed for this.

If you are not yet ready to go cordless when it comes to vacuum cleaners, then Henry Hoover HVR160 is the perfect model for you. It is the cheapest vacuum on this list, but don’t let the price fool you. Henry is an extremely powerful floor cleaner, and the large capacity and range of tools make him the ideal cleaning companion.

Pros

• Solid build quality – the UK’s most reliable vacuum cleaner
• Large dust capacity that is up to 5x larger than a bagless vacuum
• Good filtration with self-seal dust bags to lock in the dirt

Cons

• Takes up more storage space than a cordless or upright
• Can be difficult to manoeuvre in small spaces

Eufy RoboVac 30C – Best Robot Vacuum

A robot vacuum is a very handy tool to have about the house and is perfect if you have a busy lifestyle and don’t have time for vacuuming.

Roomba and Neato are two names that usually come to mind when talking about robot vacuums, but the Eufy RoboVac 30C takes the crown of the best robot vacuum cleaner on my list.

The RoboVac 30C is powerful, easy to use and is compatible with your smart home speakers, such as Alexa or Google Assistant. It is also quiet, and it navigates throughout your home with no fuss. It has a very attractive price tag which seals the deal and is less than half price of the latest Roomba and Neato.

EASY TO CONTROL

One of the things that stand out with the Eufy RoboVac 30C is the fact that it is easy to control in a variety of different ways.

It comes with a remote control, which allows you to select a cleaning mode for the RoboVac. The vacuum also gives you some steering controls and allows you to find the vacuum and send it back to its charging station.

The RoboVac 30C has an app for your smartphone in which you can carry out all the same functions of the remote, even if you are not in the house.

This is a really useful feature, if you are at work you can set the vacuum to clean a few hours before you finish, and you will come home to a nice clean house. The app also allows you to set a cleaning schedule so the Eufy RoboVac will clean at certain times of the day.

The Eufy RoboVac 30C is compatible with your Google Assistant or Alexa smart speakers, and you can even control it through your TV using your Firestick.

FEATURES AND PERFORMANCE

The 30C is an updated version of the RoboVac, and one of the new features is the BoostIQ technology.

This is similar to the technology in the latest Dyson cordless vacuums, and it has sensors that adjust the suction power depending on the surface being cleaned. If the robot is cleaning a thick carpet, it will sense the higher friction and increase the power to clean deep in the carpet.

The battery in the RoboVac 30C will give you up to 100 minutes of cleaning time, depending on the cleaning mode used. There are 3 cleaning modes: Standard, BoostIQ and Max.

Max mode will give you 60 minutes of cleaning time which is impressive for a cordless vacuum, but using the BoostIQ mode should be sufficient for most homes.

The Eufy RoboVac 30C is clever enough to know how far away it is from its charging station and will return home when the battery is getting low. There is always a little bit extra battery life just in case, so you won’t come home to find a stranded robot and a half-cleaned floor.

The Eufy RoboVac 30C is definitely the best value for money robot vacuum available.

It may lack some of the extra features of the Roomba and Neato, but at a fraction of the price, it is a bargain. It will leave your floors clean without making a fuss, and the connectivity options will ensure it slots seamlessly into your smart home setup.

Pros

• Quiet operation and slim design
• BoostIQ Technology to increase suction when needed
• Up to 100 minutes cleaning time

Cons

• Needs regular maintanence for efficient use
• Takes some time to learn floor layout

Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat and Dog Powerline – Best Cylinder Vacuum

The CX1 range is Miele’s first foray into the bagless vacuum market, and the CX1 Blizzard Cat and Dog Powerline is the best performing model in the range. While it is marketed towards pet owners, even if you are not a pet parent this is still the best cylinder vacuum for cleaning your carpets and hard floors.

The CX1 Cat and Dog Powerline vacuum is quieter than most vacuums, has a wide range of tools and has great suction.

Then there is the outstanding build quality that we have come to expect from Miele, giving this vacuum an expected life span of up to 20 years. It is a bulky machine and it may be a little awkward to use on stairs, but the benefits far outweigh these minor niggles.

EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE ON ALL FLOOR TYPES

The Miele Blizzard CX1 is suitable for all floor types, and the powerful suction makes it ideal for cleaning hard floors such as wood and tile. Where it really excels is on carpets, and the vacuum has been designed to tackle even the most stubborn pet hair stuck in your carpet.

Along with the standard Miele accessories that come with it, the Blizzard CX1 also comes with the Cat and Dog floorhead.

This floorhead is included with Miele’s other pet-focused vacuum cleaners, and it one of the best tools available for dealing with pet hair. The air-powered rotating brush bar has two rows of stiff bristles, making it perfect for deep cleaning your carpets.

FEATURES AND PERFORMANCE

One of the best things about this Miele vacuum is the variable suction control. There are four levels of suction, and they are graphically labelled for curtains, rugs, hard floors and carpets. This is really handy for when you try to vacuum a surface and the suction is just too strong.

The on/off button can be operated with your foot which saves you having to bend down, and although the 6.5-metre cable isn’t the longest it stores easily thanks to the cable rewind feature.

The Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat and Dog comes with an impressive array of tools. Along with the Cat and Dog floorhead, there is also the standard Miele EcoTeq floorhead which is a general hard floor and carpet cleaner. The crevice tool and upholstery brush are stored on the vacuum body, and they feel sturdy and built to last.

Even with the powerful 1200 watt Vortex motor, the Miele Cat and Dog Powerline is one of the quietest vacuums we have seen. The maximum noise was measured at 72 decibels, and that was with the Cat and Dog floorhead running at the maximum suction level.

Most vacuum cleaners on their max setting run into the 80-decibel range, so this is a welcome feature, especially if you have no option but to vacuum at unusual times of the day.

The Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat and Dog Powerline is a powerful floor cleaner, and it is the best cylinder vacuum cleaner on the market. Powerful suction, quiet operation and useful accessories are just some of the benefits of this solid and reliable vacuum from Miele.

Pros

• 4 power settings to control the suction
• Specialised floorhead is great for dealing with pet hair
• Large dust capacity for a bagless vacuum

Cons

• Performance is not as good as bagged Miele models
• Bulky design means it can be a struggle to clean stairs

Harry Hoover HHR200 – Best Vacuum Cleaner for Pets

The Henry Hoover range is one of the most well-known vacuum cleaner families in the UK, and Harry Hoover HHR200 is one of the popular models in the range. Harry has all the features that you know and love from a Numatic vacuum, and he also has a few extra features that make him ideal for dealing with pet hair.

Harry HHR200 has a pet-centric cleaning head, a charcoal filter for absorbing any pet smells, and an impressive 9-litre dust capacity. He also uses Numatic’s own HepaFlo bags which have a self-seal tab, making him ideal for anyone who suffers from pet allergies.

PET SPECIFIC FILTER AND FLOORHEAD

One of the main benefits of Harry Hoover is his pet-specific cleaning head, the HairoBrush. This is a motorised turbo tool that is designed to remove pet hair from carpets and upholstery.

It is more powerful than the standard Numatic floorhead, and it uses the airflow from the vacuum to rotate the stiff brushes and clean deep in the carpet.

Harry Hoover HHR200 also comes with a charcoal filter as standard. Charcoal is a great odour absorber, and that’s why it is a good choice for a pet vacuum.

Because the bags in Harry are so large, if there was no charcoal filter absorbing bad odours the vacuum would quickly smell like wet dog. It’s worth noting that the charcoal filter replaces the HEPA filter in other models, so if you suffer from allergies then Harry may not be the best choice.

OTHER FEATURES AND PERFORMANCE

Numatic vacuum cleaners are known for their bright and cheery design and Harry is no different. He is bright green in colour and has the distinctive smiley face that his siblings do. It’s worth noting that you can remove Harry’s face if you wish, but that would be removing his charm.

Harry has the same powerful motor as other models in the range, such as Henry and Hetty. It has a 620-watt motor which provides powerful suction and does a decent job on most floor types.

As well as his pet specific features, Harry also comes with the standard Numatic features. These include the manual cable rewind for easy storage, easy to change HepaFlo bags, and a wide range of tools.

Along with the HairoBrush, you also get a crevice tool, upholstery tool, soft dusting brush and a combination floor nozzle. These extra tools come in handy for cleaning stairs or the inside of your car.

Harry Hoover HHR200 is one of the best vacuum cleaners for dealing with pet hairs and odours. The HairoBrush makes it easy to remove stubborn hair from your carpets and upholstery, and the charcoal filter ensures your home will smell fresh even if you live with pets.

There is no HEPA filter and it is a little bulky for cleaning stairs, but apart from these minor issues, Harry is the perfect partner for any pet-owners cleaning needs.

Pros

• All the features of Henry with added extras for dealing with pet hair
• HairoBrush attachment is one of the best pet hair cleaning heads on the market
• MicroFresh filter contains activated charcoal for removing pet odours

Cons

• No HEPA filter
• he strong suction and heavy weight can make it awkward to use at first

Gtech Multi MK2 K9 – Best Handheld Vacuum

The Gtech Multi MK2 is one of the most popular handheld vacuums in the UK, and the upgraded K9 version has been designed to cope with the additional cleaning needs of pet owners.

The Multi MK2 K9 is built to handle the toughest cleaning jobs, from cleaning your car upholstery to vacuuming the stairs. While it won’t replace your main vacuum cleaner, it is a perfect accompaniment in the battle to keep your home clean.

NEW FEATURES IN THE K9

The K9 version of the Gtech Multi MK2 has a number of improvements over the previous model. First of all, it has been reinforced with aluminium components to make it stronger. Large amounts of pet hair can put a lot of strain on vacuum cleaner parts so Gtech has made sure the Multi MK2 K9 can handle it.

There are also a number of new attachments included to go along with the original tools. There is a dusting brush which is ideal for cleaning hard floors, furniture, upholstery, and car interiors.

There is also a crevice tool which is perfect for getting into tight spaces that pet hair usually accumulates. The main cleaning head is a powered brush head, and this is perfect for dealing with tough cleaning situations on a variety of surfaces.

Also included is a 36cm extension hose that is attached to the vacuum. This allows you to clean high areas without having to stretch, and you don’t have to bend down to clean low areas.

OTHER FEATURES OF THE GTECH MULTI MK2 K9

The Gtech Multi MK2 K9 has a modern feel to it, and it has been designed in the same way as the AirRam, which is the cordless upright vacuum that Gtech offers.

It has a rubber handle with a reinforced plastic body, and it feels very comfortable to hold. You will have no problems holding it in one hand for 20 minutes, which is how long the battery lasts on a full charge.

The on/off button is more convenient than most handheld vacuums due to the fact that you press it once to switch it on and then press it again to switch it off.

Other handhelds, such as the Dyson range, require you to hold in a trigger to keep the vacuum running. While this may save a little bit of battery life, it can be uncomfortable to hold. This makes the Multi MK2 K9 easier to use.

BATTERY AND CHARGING TIME

This vacuum is powered by a 22V Lithium-Ion battery, and it takes 4 hours to fully charge from flat. When it is fully charged you get up to 20 minutes of run time. While this doesn’t seem much, it’s about average for a handheld vacuum that is not designed for whole house cleaning.

20 minutes should be more than enough to clean out your car or vacuum the staircase in your home. If you need to clean up a spill quickly, there is a quick clean function that allows you to use the vacuum for a few minutes after charging for one hour.

The Gtech Multi MK2 K9 is the best handheld vacuum cleaner in the UK. While it doesn’t have the long battery life of the latest Dyson models, it is a fraction of the price.

It has powerful suction, and the range of attachments means that you can clean all of the hard reach areas in your home or car that your regular vacuum can’t. It won’t replace your main vacuum, but it is a great partner and will help to ensure your home is free from dirt and dust.

Pros

• 20 minute run-time is decent for a handheld vacuum
• Lightweight design – weighs only 1.5 kg
• Very versatile with lots of attachments

Cons

• Not powerful enough to be a main vacuum
• Emptying and cleaning is slightly fiddly

Shark Duoclean Lift-Away NV801UKT – Best Upright Vacuum

Upright vacuums have long been a favourite in UK households, but their popularity has been waning recently. Part of this is due to the explosion of cordless stick vacuums which have more versatility and can clean most surfaces and hard to reach areas.

The Shark DuoClean Lift-Away NV801UKT has changed the perception of upright models, and the range of features makes this as versatile as any vacuum cleaner.

Along with being versatile, this Shark upright vacuum gives you the advantage of never having to worry about running out of battery, since it is a corded vacuum.

LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY

The main selling point of the Shark NV801UKT is the lift-away feature. The entire canister can be removed from the body of the vacuum, essentially turning it into a powerful, portable handheld vacuum. This allows you to easily clean stairs and other hard to reach areas, while not sacrificing any suction power.

Not only does this vacuum have a lift-away canister, but the brush roll is motorised. The Powered Lift-Away functionality delivers power directly to the brush-roll and increases the suction and cleaning power. This gives you added cleaning power that most other upright vacuums don’t offer.

SHARK DUOCLEAN TECHNOLOGY

Another feature that ensures this Shark vacuum stands out over every other upright vacuum is the addition of Shark’s patented DuoClean technology. This gives you two brush rolls instead of one and helps to deliver a stronger cleaning performance.

The main bristle brush is underneath the cleaning head, and this is ideal for cleaning deep in the carpet fibres. Then there is also a soft roller brush, which is situated at the front of the vacuum cleaner head.

The beauty of this design is that the soft roller brush replaces the front wall of the cleaner head. So where most upright vacuums push larger bits of debris along the floor, with the Shark NV801UKT everything gets sucked into the soft roller brush.

OTHER FEATURES OF THE SHARK NV801UKT UPRIGHT

The Shark NV801UKT Lift-Away upright does not use bags to capture dirt. Instead, it has a clear canister that is simple to empty.

It is generally thought that bagged vacuum cleaners are better for allergy sufferers, however, this Shark vacuum has Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology that captures 99.9% of dust and allergens, and doesn’t release them back into the air.

The sealed system combined with a HEPA filter to capture most allergens ensures that the Shark NV801UKT is just as efficient at dealing with allergies as a bagged vacuum cleaner.

The Shark DuoClean Lift-Away NV801UKT is a powerful 2-in-1 upright vacuum cleaner. It is more versatile than most other uprights, and because it is corded it also has an advantage over cordless stick vacuums.

The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, DuoClean technology, and a wide range of tools and attachments make this an ideal vacuum cleaner for cleaning every surface in your home. The ability to transform into a handheld vacuum cleaner means that it is the only vacuum cleaner you need.

Pros

• Detachable Lift-Away canister which converts it into a portable cleaner
• DuoClean cleaning head for a more effective and efficient clean
• Excellent at dealing with embedded pet hair

Cons

• On the expensive side (although it is on deal a lot of the time)
• Smaller dust capacity than a bagged vacuum – may need to empty more often

George Hoover GVE370 – Best All-in-One Vacuum

Numatic George GVE370 is part of the Henry Hoover family. He is more expensive than most of his siblings, simply because he is designed to deal with almost every situation you come across when cleaning your home.

George GVE370 is an all-in-one vacuum cleaner with a powerful 1060W motor. This gives you plenty of suction power whether you are dry vacuuming or wet cleaning.

One of the best things about using George as a carpet cleaner is that the powerful suction will leave your carpets almost dry. Other wet and dry cleaners can leave your carpet soaking, which will lead to mould growth. As you can imagine, mould is not good for your carpet or your health.

George really is an all-in-one cleaning powerhouse, and he can deal with any cleaning task without any problems. He can wash your carpets and hard floors, vacuum your floors, clean your car seats and interior, clean upholstery, and deal with any spills. He even has a blow function to deal with any blockages in your sink.

TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES

Numatic George needs a lot of tools as he is so versatile and can do so many different cleaning tasks. George comes with more tools and accessories than almost every other all-in-one cleaner on the market.

For dry vacuuming, George ships with a crevice tool, dusting brush, all-purpose nozzle which includes a detachable brush, a stainless steel wand that comes in 3 pieces to adjust the size, soft dusting brush, a dry hose and an upholstery tool.

When using George as a wet cleaner, you get the following tools: a fishtail tool which is the main cleaning head, wet hose, wand solution hose with a trigger, wet upholstery tool, tile and hard floor cleaning tool, and a wet float which prevents the water from reaching the motor.

Numatic has thought of everything when it comes to cleaning accessories, and you will struggle to find something that George can’t clean. This makes it so much easier to clean and makes a huge difference when compared to other models on the market.

CAPACITY AND FILTRATION

If you are using George GVE370 as a dry vacuum cleaner you get a massive 15-litre capacity, which is larger than most traditional vacuum cleaners. If you are using George for wet cleaning, you get a 6-litre clean water capacity and a 9-litre dirty water capacity.

It is easy to switch modes on George from dry vacuuming to wet cleaning. If you are using the vacuum in dry mode, all you have to do is remove the top of the canister and remove the dust bag and the filter.

Then you fill the inner tank with cleaning solution and put the water float filter in place. Attach the spray hose connector and one of the accessories, and you are ready to start cleaning.

To change back to dry vacuuming, remove the inner tank and float filter, dry the inside, and insert the bag and dry filter.

The float filter is designed to stop water from reaching the motor, and the dry filter should never be used when wet cleaning as it will not do that.

The dry filter is designed to capture as much dirt and debris as possible, which prevents it from clogging the motor. You should not use the float filter when dry vacuuming as it will not protect the motor.

The best all-in-one vacuum cleaners have separate tanks for clean and dirty water, and George is no exception. Some cheaper models only have one water compartment, which basically means you will be cleaning your carpets with dirty water. This is one of the main benefits of George Hoover.

Numatic George GVE370 is definitely one of the best all-in-one vacuums, and he is a lot cheaper than a commercial cleaner. He really stands out thanks to a wide range of tools, his huge capacity, and his ability to clean every surface in your home.

Pros

• Powerful motor to deal with wet and dry messes
• Lots of attachments and tools for every kind of wet or dry cleaning job
• Multi-function – dry vacuuming, clean up spills, unblock drains

Cons

• Heavy and bulky, can be difficult to manoeuvre and store
• No cable rewind function

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Best Vacuum Cleaner UK – A Complete Buying Guide

Buying a vacuum cleaner may seem like a simple task, but there are hundreds, if not thousands of models to choose from. There are many different varieties of vacuum cleaners, corded or cordless, bagged or bagless, upright, cylinder or handheld.

Also, it’s rare that a vacuum cleaner excels at all cleaning jobs, most will do one thing very well. There are vacuums that are great for pet hair, models that work well on carpet, and some that are excellent on hard floors.

So how do you choose a vacuum cleaner?

The best thing to do is think about what your cleaning needs are. Do you have pets? Are there stairs in your home, or mainly carpets/hard floors?

Once you have figured out what you need from a vacuum, then you should think about your budget. It’s a good idea to have a price in mind before you start looking so that you don’t waste time looking at vacuums outside of your price range.

The guide below will go through all of the important points to consider when choosing a vacuum cleaner. Read through it, and see what aspects you will need in your vacuum cleaner. Then you can go back and look at the reviews and see if any of the listed vacuums are suitable.

Buying the correct vacuum cleaner is not an easy task, but after you have finished reading this page you will be in a much better position to decide which vacuum cleaner is right for you.

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Corded or Cordless

One of the biggest decisions to make is whether to get a corded or a cordless model. There are pros and cons of each type, although cordless models tend to more expensive than their corded counterparts.

The first difference is the power source. Corded vacuums have a power cord, which can limit their cleaning reach. If you opt for a corded model, it’s a good idea to look for one with a long cleaning radius. This is the length of the cord, plus the length of the hose. If you compare this to the size of your rooms it will give you a good indication of how often you will need to change sockets when cleaning.

Cordless vacuums are powered by a rechargeable battery that will either be sealed in the vacuum or removable. The benefit of a removable battery is that you can purchase a separate battery so you always have one fully charged.

If you have a large house or do a lot of vacuuming, this is something you should consider.

Cordless vacuums can have a run time of anywhere from 15 minutes up to 60 minutes. Generally, the more expensive the vacuum the longer the run time will be.

Corded vacuums have a major advantage over cordless vacuums in that they will always have power. It doesn’t matter if you vacuum for 2 hours every day, your corded vacuum will never run out of juice. If you don’t clean that often or are purchasing a second vacuum for quick clean-ups then this will be less of an issue for you.

You will also tend to find that corded vacuums are more powerful than cordless vacuums. This is due to the limitations in battery power, although batteries are becoming more powerful and efficient all the time.

The latest cordless vacuums have excellent suction that comes close to a corded model, but at this moment in time corded vacuums still have the edge when it comes to power.

Another benefit of cordless vacuums is that they are very flexible when it comes to cleaning. Because they tend to be lightweight, you can literally lift it above your head and clean the cobwebs from the ceiling, or clean on top of high furniture. You are not limited by a power cord so you really can clean anywhere with a cordless vacuum cleaner.

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Bagged or Bagless

Another aspect you will come across when looking for a vacuum cleaner is whether it is a bagless model or whether it uses bags. There are benefits of each and again, it will come down to your requirements.

Bagless vacuum cleaners have a transparent canister that captures all of the dust and dirt. It is easier to see when it is full, which reduces the chance of clogging the machine. Bagless vacuums are marketed as being easier to empty, and it’s usually just a case of holding over the dust bin and pressing a button to release the dirt.

While it is easier, there will always be some element of dust and other allergens that can escape back into the air. If you suffer from dust or pet allergies, emptying a bagless vacuum can be an unpleasant task.

Bagged vacuum cleaners use a large dust bag to capture all of the dirt and dust. When it comes to emptying a bagged vacuum cleaner you remove the whole bag and discard it. Vacuum bags are sealed and no dust or allergens escape when emptying, making this an ideal choice of vacuum for an allergy sufferer.

The downside of a bagged vacuum is that you can’t see when the bag is full. Vacuuming with a full dust bag can reduce the suction power, and it can also lead to dirt being sucked into the motor and clogging up other parts of your vacuum.

Bagless vacuums tend to have a smaller dirt capacity than their bagged counterparts, although they are more environmentally friendly.

When it comes to maintenance costs, you will need to buy replacement bags for your bagged vacuum. While these don’t tend to cost much, if you use your vacuum regularly these costs will have to be factored into your decision. The bags have a built-in filter, so there is no need to purchase replacement filters.

A bagless vacuum has separate filters, and although they can sometimes be cleaned depending on the model, they will have to be replaced at some point. These filters can cost anywhere from £10 – £50, so this is something to factor in when choosing a bagless model.

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Upright, Cylinder, Stick, or Handheld

When it comes to the design of a vacuum cleaner, there are four main types to choose from: upright, cylinder, stick, or handheld. Some vacuums can be converted into several different types, for example, many stick vacuums can also be used as a handheld.

Upright Vacuums

Upright vacuums are one of the most popular types in the UK, and they are usually the most powerful. They are a good choice if you are on a budget, with the average price of about £150, while the most expensive ones can be anywhere from £200 – £300. Uprights have a reputation for being reliable, which is why they are so popular.

Uprights are also much more versatile than they used to be, thanks to innovative technology such as the lift-away canister. This means you can detach the canister and use it as a portable cleaning machine, making it much easier to clean stairs and other previously inaccessible areas.

Upright vacuums come with a wide range of tools and accessories, making them even more useful.

One of the downsides of an upright vacuum cleaner is the weight. They tend to be quite heavy and bulky, which means if you have mobility issues or need a lighter vacuum for another reason, they may not be the best choice.

Cylinder Vacuums

Cylinder vacuum cleaners are the most budget-friendly option, with the average price at around £100 and the most expensive being around £250. This type of vacuum has a long hose connected to a cylinder that you pull along behind you as you clean.

Cylinder vacuums are usually lightweight, and because they are compact they can be easier to store. They also tend to come with plenty of attachments, and because of the long hose, they can clean almost any area of your home.

The main issue with a cylinder vacuum is that they are not very flexible. They will do a good job at cleaning your floors but they can’t be converted into a portable cleaner, which means you may struggle to clean awkward places such as the stairs.

Stick Vacuums

Stick vacuums are rising in popularity in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. They are powerful, lightweight and flexible, and most of them can be converted into a handheld vacuum. The majority of stick vacuums are cordless and run on batteries, although there are some corded stick models.

Stick vacuums tend to be the most expensive of all types of vacuum cleaners, but they are usually loaded with the latest technology to aid you in cleaning. The most expensive stick vacuums cost upwards of £500, with the average cost around the £200 – £250 mark.

The main attraction of a stick vacuum lies in its flexibility. These machines are so light that they can be used to clean every part of your home, and even your car.

They come with a multitude of attachments, and some models come with separate cleaning heads depending on which surface you are cleaning.

Apart from the price, the main drawback of a stick vacuum cleaner is the small dust cup. This is due to the design and to keep them as light as possible, but if you vacuum regularly you will find yourself emptying the dust cup more often than you would like.

Handheld Vacuums

Handheld vacuums are the cheapest type of vacuum cleaner, with the most expensive models costing £150. The average price of a handheld is around £50.

It’s important to note that a handheld vacuum cleaner is not suitable for use as your main cleaning tool. They are designed for quick cleaning jobs and to work in conjunction with your main cleaner. They usually have a short run time (if battery-powered), small dirt capacity, and little or no extra accessories.

Handheld vacuums excel at small cleaning jobs. If you are in a rush and you spill something on your carpet, rather than drag out your full-sized vacuum you can quickly grab your handheld and clean up the mess. They are also good for cleaning out the car, especially if you park away from your home and can’t use a corded vacuum.

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Carpets or Hard Floors

Many vacuums specialise in cleaning either carpet or hard floors, although some of the more expensive models are good at cleaning both. Manufacturers won’t usually tell you what the vacuum is not good at, so it’s important to read online reviews to get an idea of the surface type it works well on.

Another thing to think about is that it’s not the vacuum cleaner you should be looking at, but rather what cleaning heads and attachments it has. These will give you a good indication of the surfaces that the vacuum is designed for.

For carpet cleaning, make sure that the vacuum cleaning head has a brush bar for agitating the dirt before it is sucked up. A motorised brush bar is even better, as this type of cleaning head doesn’t rely on suction power to rotate the brushes.

The Dyson V11 is a good example of this; it has a motorised brush bar but takes it a step further by using technology to determine the type of surface you are cleaning.

If you are cleaning carpet it will increase suction to help get all the dirt out of the fibres. If you are cleaning a hard floor, it will reduce the suction so the brushes don’t damage the floor.

If you have a lot of hard floors in your home, such as wood or tile, then it is a good idea to look for a cleaning head with no brush bar. The rotating brushes can scratch and damage your hard floors, and you don’t need them on hard floors.

Many vacuums feature a switch or a button that allows you to turn off the brush bar, this is ideal if you have a mixture of carpets and hard floors. Other vacuums have cleaning heads that are specifically designed for hard floors, these will often have a soft dusting brush that will clean and polish your floors at the same time.

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Pets

If you live with pets, you will understand the extra effort it requires to keep your home clean. Pet hair, pet smells and other pet-related messes can quickly mount up if not kept on top of.

Thankfully, there are a variety of pet-specific vacuum cleaners on the market. There are also some vacuums that are not marketed as pet vacuums as such, but if you know what to look for then they can be a good option for dealing with pet hair.

Most pet-specific vacuum cleaners will have a specialised cleaning head that will remove pet hair from carpets and other floor types. These cleaning heads have a powerful motorised brush bar to capture pet hair that is tangled up in the fibres of your carpet.

Some models also have a mini pet tool that is used to remove embedded pet hair from your upholstery or car seats.

Pet specific vacuum cleaners will usually have a charcoal filter, along with the regular filter. Charcoal is an excellent absorber of odours, and this is essential if you live with pets (especially dogs).

If you have used a regular vacuum cleaner to clean up after your pets and noticed your vacuum becomes smelly, you will know how important this is.

Another important aspect of buying a vacuum cleaner to deal with pet hair is the dust canister. Living with dogs or cats that regularly shed their hair can mean having to vacuum 2 or 3 times per day.

If your vacuum cleaner has a small dirt capacity, this means you will have to empty it after every use. Having a large dirt capacity allows you to clean more often without having to empty the vacuum.

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Allergies and HEPA Filter

If you or anyone in your home suffers from allergies, you need a vacuum cleaner that can adequately deal with all kinds of allergens, such as pollen, dust and pet dander.

There are a few vacuums on the market that are specifically designed for allergy sufferers, such as the Shark Anti-Allergen IF260UKTH and the Henry Allergy, but if you know what features to look for then you will have a bigger selection to choose from.

First of all, a bagged vacuum cleaner is considered to be better for allergy sufferers than a bagless version. This is because all of the allergens are trapped in the bag, and when it is full you just lift it out and put it in the bin. Most vacuum cleaner bags also have a self-seal system, where the bag seals itself so nothing can escape.

There are some bagless vacuums that have a sealed vacuum system. This means that while the vacuum is in use, no allergens can escape from any part of the vacuum cleaner.

This is good in theory, but the problem arises when it is time to empty the vacuum canister. Because there is no bag, when you empty the contents of the canister into the bin, there will inevitably be a cloud of dust that engulfs the area, exposing you to all of the allergens that you have just sucked up.

If you can get a non-allergy sufferer to empty the canister in an outside bin away from your home, this may not be as much of a problem. For complete peace of mind, however, a vacuum cleaner that uses bags is a much safer option.

Another thing that is essential for dealing with allergies is a HEPA filter. These are specialised filters that capture 99.97% of all particles down to 0.3 microns in size.

To put that number into perspective, pollen particles are around 25 microns and pet dander particles can be as small as 2.5 microns. A vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter will capture these particles and ensure your allergies are kept under control.

Most vacuum cleaners come with a HEPA filter as standard; even some budget models now have them. Read the description of the vacuum and it will tell you if a HEPA filter is included.

One point to be aware of is vacuum cleaners that are marketed as pet-specific often have a charcoal filter instead of a HEPA filter, to help deal with smells. The charcoal filter will not protect you from allergens, so it’s important to understand the filters that are included.

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Stairs

Stairs are one of the most awkward places in the home to vacuum, and they are one of the major pain points when it comes to cleaning. Upright vacuums and cylinder vacuums are notoriously bad for cleaning stairs, but there are a few things to look out for that will make this task easier.

If you are in the market for an upright vacuum, make sure it is the kind that has a lift-away canister. This allows you to detach the main body of the vacuum and use it as a portable cleaner.

This makes cleaning stairs a breeze and means you don’t have to balance a bulky upright on a narrow step.

If you are looking at canister vacuums, you want one that has a long reach hose. This will allow you to leave the canister at the bottom of the stairs and use the cleaning head to clean. A lightweight model is also a good idea, in case you need to carry it up the staircase.

A handheld vacuum is usually the best option for stair cleaning, although they are not suitable for whole-house cleaning. It’s a good idea to have a handheld vacuum just for cleaning stairs, as they can also be used for other hard to reach areas such as your car.

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Budget

There are hundreds of different vacuum cleaners on the market, ranging from £20 handhelds to £500 cordless models. It’s advisable to have a figure in mind that you wish to spend on a vacuum, so you don’t waste time looking at models outside of your budget.

Once you have a price range, then think of the type of vacuum you require. This will narrow down your options considerably and make your decision easier.

Think about how much you will use the vacuum. If you only vacuum once or twice per month, do you really need a vacuum cleaner that has all the latest technology and costs £400? If you have pets and you vacuum several times per day, is it worth spending a bit more to ensure you get a vacuum that will last?

These questions should help you to decide how much you want to spend on a vacuum cleaner.

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Final Thoughts

Buying a vacuum cleaner is a big decision, and getting the correct one for your needs will ensure your home is kept clean without much effort. After reading this guide, you should now be in a better position to choose a vacuum, and you will know exactly what your requirements are.

If money is no object and you want the very best in vacuum technology, then go for the Dyson V11 Absolute. It has a 60 minute run time, powerful suction, and a range of innovative features that will make your cleaning as simple as possible. If the Dyson is over your budget but you still want a cordless model, then the Shark IF250UKT is a great choice.

If you are looking for an upright, look no further than the Shark NV801UKT Lift-Away. It has powerful suction, a lift-away canister, and a range of tools and accessories to aid you while cleaning.

If you want a reliable canister with a large dust capacity, have a look at the Henry Hoover HVR-160 or the Harry Hoover HHR200.

The Eufy RoboVac 30c is the best robot vacuum on the market today and is a third of the price of some of the more expensive robot models. The Gtech Multi MK2 K9 is a powerful handheld that excels at cleaning pet hair.

Depending on your circumstances, there will be a vacuum cleaner in the list below that will suit your needs. Read the reviews, make a decision, and enjoy stress-free cleaning with your new vacuum cleaner!

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James Garner

James Garner has been in the vacuum cleaning business for years, first started as a salesman, then became a technician, today he is the proud owner of CleanHomeGuide. With years of experience on his belt, he made this site with one goal, to help you pick the best vacuum cleaner for your home.