Cleaning the stairs is perhaps the most challenging of all household chores because you have to reach the deep corners without breaking your back and blowing the dirt away. Traditional vacuums can’t do the trick because they’re bulky and difficult to move up the stairs.
Fortunately, there are many vacuum cleaners meant for stairs with their lightweight construction and carry handles.
In this article, we’ll help you find the best vacuum for stairs with deep consideration of their size, features, and maneuverability. There is also a buying guide to help you find the best vacuum for stairs, regardless of the features you need and the budget you have.
Summary
Here are the top picks for the all-time best vacuums for stairs. No matter what you need, you won’t regret buying these units for your home!
- Top Pick: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum 2390A
- Premium Cleaning: MOOSOO Cordless Vacuum XL-618A
- Multipurpose Vacuuming: Homasy Handheld Portable Vacuum HM207A
An Overview
- It is no surprise that the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum 2390A takes the cake with its powerful suction, sizeable dust cup, and 14V lithium-ion batteries that can be charged. Best of all, this unit will last for ages and leave your stairs spotless.
- Not everyone prefers handheld vacuums. The MOOSOO Cordless Vacuum XL-618A is cordless and lightweight, making it relatively easy to use on the stairs. The 4-in-1 appliance is also a good choice for those with mixed flooring.
- The Homasy Handheld Portable Vacuum HM207A is small yet powerful with cyclonic suction. It can clean both wet and dry messes and is ideal for spot-cleaning furniture and upholstery, as well as vehicle interiors.
Top 10 Best Vacuum Cleaners for Stairs Reviews
| RANK | NAME | RATING | SHOPS |
| #1 | Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum 2390A (Top Pick) If you have pets at home, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser 2390A might be a good choice as it comes with specialized tools to pick up pet hair and even cat litter. It barely weighs 3.1 lbs making it very handy to use on the stairs. It is convenient to use on the stairs because it’s super lightweight, and it comes with an ergonomic looped handle to give a secure grip. Dimensions: 4.5 x 16 x 5 inches Weight: 4.4 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.7 liter Warranty: 1 year limited | 9.9 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #2 | MOOSOO Cordless Vacuum XL-618A (Premium Cleaning) If you’re torn between a stick vacuum and a handheld model, then the MOOSOO XL-618A might be your perfect choice. Weighing only 3.3 lbs, the MOOSOO XL-618A is a lightweight vacuum that you can easily carry to your stairs. For such a small stick vacuum, you’ll get 20-35 minutes of runtime, which is more than enough to clean your stairs thoroughly. Dimensions: 43 x 9 x 10 inches Weight: 3.3 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 1.3 liters Warranty: 3 years | 9.8 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #3 | Homasy Handheld Portable Vacuum HM207A (Multipurpose Vacuuming) The Homasy HM207A is another great contender for the best handheld vacuum for stairs as it’s capable of picking up both dry and liquid messes. It’s also quieter than most of the other vacuums on this list. This unit can give a solid 30 minutes of cordless power after charging for 3-4 hours. Dimensions: 11.81 x 7.87 x 1.97 inches Weight: 3.26 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.6 liters Warranty: 3 years | 9.7 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #4 | Oreck Commercial BB900DGR XL Pro 5 (For Heavy-Duty Use) The Oreck Commercial BB900DGR XL Pro 5 is a bagged canister vacuum designed to be carried like a tote bag. This machine comes with an over-the-shoulder carry strap that’s very helpful when you’re cleaning the stairs. Dimensions: 13.5 x 5.25 x 8 inches Weight: 5 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.95 liters Warranty: 1 year | 9.6 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #5 | Bissell Cleanview Swivel Rewind Pet 2254 (Best for Pet Owners) It is a bagless upright vacuum to clean your stairs, even the carpeted ones. It comes with many attachments, like the Pet TurboEraser, which is good enough at cleaning up the stairs with its soft rubber-like teeth. The pet hair corner tool allows you to clean up dust and bothersome pet hair that accumulates in the corners around your stairs. Dimensions: 13 x 14 x 46 inches Weight: 19.19 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 1 liter Warranty: 4 years limited | 9.5 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #6 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 (Versatile Cleaning Option) The Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 is the best Shark vacuum for stairs because you can detach the canister from the base and carry it while cleaning, thanks to its Lift-Away feature. Weighing 7.5 lbs, the canister is lightweight enough to carry while you clean the stairs. You only have to press a button to lift the canister from the roller base. Dimensions: 14.9 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches Weight: 15.96 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 1.2 quarts Warranty: 5 years | 9.4 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #7 | Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252 (Best for Hardwood Floors) The Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252 is similar to the 2254 but has a shorter power cord and hose lengths. It also lacks the automatic cord rewind and the pet hair corner tool attachment. However, it uses scatter-free technology to clear debris quickly from edge to edge. Dimensions: 13 x 14 x 44.5 inches Weight: 17.56 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 1 liter wand, and pet TurboEraser Warranty: 3 years limited | 9.3 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #8 | EUREKA EasyClean 71B (Dual Motor Model) The EUREKA EasyClean 71B is a great contender as the best hand vacuum for stairs because it’s corded, lightweight, and powerful. It’s also one of the cheapest models on this list. It is a corded handheld vacuum that is specially designed for stairs and upholstery. It weighs around 4.85 lbs makes it relatively lightweight and easy to carry around. Dimensions: 178 x 381 x 203 inches Weight: 4.85 pounds Dust Cup Capacity: Warranty: 1 year | 9.2 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #9 | Bissell Cleanview Deluxe Handheld Vacuum 47R51 (Budget Pick) The Bissell Cleanview Deluxe 47R51 is almost the same as the Pet Hair Eraser. Still, it’s worth the extra price for including many attachments, which let you reach tight places. This corded vacuum is designed for stairs, cars, and upholstery. Dimensions: 10 x 5 x 8 inches Weight: 4.65 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.78 liter Specialty Tools: Crevice tool and wide mouth tool Warranty: 1 year limited | 9.1 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #10 | Bissell Pet Hair Handheld Vacuum 33A1 (Cheapest Option) Thanks to its flexible rubber nozzle, the Bissell 33A1 is another best handheld vacuum for stairs and pet hair. It automatically adjusts to each curve, thoroughly cleaning your stairs, upholstery, and vehicle interiors. Dimensions: 10 x 5 x 8 inches Weight: 4.2 pounds Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.78 liter Warranty: 1 year limited | 9.0 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
This list covers everything you’d ever need to consider, from the cheapest to the most expensive and from handheld to upright models. We have scoured the internet for the best lightweight vacuum for stairs, and you’re bound to find something you’ll need here!
01. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum 2390A (Top Pick)
If you have pets at home, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser 2390A might be a good choice as it comes with specialized tools to pick up pet hair and even cat litter. It barely weighs 3.1 lbs making it very handy to use on the stairs.
It is convenient to use on the stairs because it’s super lightweight, and it comes with an ergonomic looped handle to give a secure grip. For its tiny size, the dust cup is 0.7 liters in capacity, which is pretty impressive.
The triple-level filtration is a significant upgrade from its predecessors because it helps prevent clogging and improve cleaning performance. It also ensures that allergens and debris remain trapped inside.
Another good thing about the Pet Hair Eraser cordless vacuum is its accessories that make the cleaner more versatile. It includes a crevice tool to reach deep into the stair’s narrow sides, plus a motorized brush to remove pet hair and embedded dirt.
Users love how the vent grilles are pointing up and away from the nozzle. They don’t blow away the lightweight particles before the nozzle can suck them.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 4.5 x 16 x 5 inches
- Weight: 4.4 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.7 liter
- Specialty Tools: Crevice tool, upholstery tool, and motorized brush roll
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Pros
- Has a relatively large dust capacity for its size so that it won’t need frequent emptying.
- Includes special cleaning tools and suction that make cleaning much more thorough.
- Super lightweight and portable, making it easy to use on stairs.
- Excellent triple-level filtration traps the finest bits of dirt and dust.
- The unit is affordable and offers excellent value.
Cons
- Short battery life means you have to work quickly.
- Takes 2-3 hours to charge.
02. MOOSOO Cordless Vacuum XL-618A (Premium Cleaning)acuum XL-618A
If you’re torn between a stick vacuum and a handheld model, then the MOOSOO XL-618A might be your perfect choice. Simply press a button to transform the XL-618A into a handheld vacuum to clean tight spaces like your stairs.
Weighing only 3.3 lbs, the MOOSOO XL-618A is a lightweight vacuum that you can easily carry to your stairs. For such a small stick vacuum, you’ll get 20-35 minutes of runtime, which is more than enough to clean your stairs thoroughly.
In addition, the 10,000Pa suction power is strong enough to pick up small pieces of debris from all types of surfaces, including hardwood, carpet, and tiles.
Thanks to its adjustable head angle and LED dust searchlight, you can clean every corner of the stairs. The tank can hold as much as 1.3 liters of dirt, which is enormous for a stick vacuum of this size. This stick vacuum comes with a wall mount to store your unit while not in use.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 43 x 9 x 10 inches
- Weight: 3.3 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 1.3 liters
- Specialty Tools: Crevice tool, upholstery tool, and motorized brush roll
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Can be used as a stick vacuum or handheld vacuum interchangeably.
- Includes a wall mount for storage, saving space in your home.
- Can capture allergens to purify the air inside your home.
- Long battery life and short charging time make cleaning extremely convenient.
Cons
- Can’t pick up larger debris reliably.
- Not many cleaning tool accessories are included with the vacuum.
03. Homasy Handheld Portable Vacuum HM207A (Multipurpose Vacuuming)
The Homasy HM207A is another great contender for the best handheld vacuum for stairs as it’s capable of picking up both dry and liquid messes. It’s also quieter than most of the other vacuums on this list.
With an airflow of around 38.14 CFM, you can expect the Homasy HM207A to be able to pick up almost anything from dust to food debris and liquid spills. It can give a solid 30 minutes of cordless power after charging for 3-4 hours. Moreover, it comes with three attachments, like the rubber jar for liquids, the brush for dust, and the crevice tool for hard-to-reach areas.
As a result, you can clean both wet and dry messes with this unit. Furthermore, you don’t just have to clean your stairs with this handheld device. It is also a good option for cleaning furniture, upholstery, vehicle, and boat interiors.
We like that filter is washable because you don’t have to replace it for every use. At 3.26 lbs, this vacuum is pretty lightweight and can be carried with so much ease when cleaning the stairs. We like that you can see the dust bin clearly, so you’ll know whether it’s filled and needs to be empty.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 11.81 x 7.87 x 1.97 inches
- Weight: 3.26 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.6 liters
- Specialty Tools: Rubber jar, brush, and crevice tool
- Warranty: 3 years
Pros
- Lightweight and ergonomically designed, making it easy for everyone to use.
- Comes with versatile tools for spot cleaning messes and cleaning specific areas.
- Can suction up both dry and liquid messes with equal skill.
- Relatively long battery life and short charging time offer added convenience.
- It is quieter than most other vacuum models out there.
Cons
- Doesn’t work well on high pile carpets.
- Not the best at picking up pet hair.
04. Oreck Commercial BB900DGR XL Pro 5 (For Heavy-Duty Use)
The Oreck Commercial BB900DGR XL Pro 5 is a bagged canister vacuum designed to be carried like a tote bag. This machine comes with an over-the-shoulder carry strap that’s very helpful when you’re cleaning the stairs.
The Oreck Commercial XL Pro 5 weighs around 5 lbs, lightweight enough to carry on your shoulders. It comes with many attachments to help you clean the stairs, even the items on the wall and the crevices in furniture. With the long power cord, you can cover a whole flight of stairs without suffering a decrease in power.
The 2-way motor is more powerful than regular flow-through motors, and it picks up cat hair just fine. Also, the HEPA filter traps allergens like animal dander, dust, and other irritants. It prevents them from escaping into the room again.
This vacuum uses vacuum bags to hold the dirt. You’ll need to change them periodically to keep the performance in top shape. The only issue is the hose which is a bit short and stays tightly coiled when in use.
On the other hand, this unit also has a 1.25-quart dust cup, which removes the need for frequent cleaning and emptying. If you have to spend a lot of time cleaning cobwebs and dust from staircases, this vacuum will get the job done.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 13.5 x 5.25 x 8 inches
- Weight: 5 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.95 liters
- Specialty Tools: Crevice tool, floor brush, dusting brush, and upholstery tool
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- The long power cord allows you to cover larger areas without unplugging often.
- Comes with many attachments that make cleaning easier.
- The relatively quiet motor doesn’t make much noise while vacuuming.
- Lightweight and easy to carry with shoulder straps.
Cons
- The short and inflexible hose doesn’t have a wide each.
- Flimsy straps can break when not handled carefully.
05. Bissell Cleanview Swivel Rewind Pet 2254 (Best for Pet Owners)
The Bissell Cleanview Swivel Rewind Pet 2254 could be the best upright vacuum for stairs because it has one of the longest hoses to let you use it as a handheld vacuum with its many attachments. If you share your home with a pet, a handheld vacuum might not be good enough.
It is a bagless upright vacuum to clean your stairs, even the carpeted ones. It comes with many attachments, like the Pet TurboEraser, which is good enough at cleaning up the stairs with its soft rubber-like teeth. The pet hair corner tool allows you to clean up dust and bothersome pet hair that accumulates in the corners around your stairs.
People love the filters because they’re washable and can be reused many times. The dirt tank is easy to empty because you only have to push a button, and you don’t have to touch any dirt. As for its performance, this upright vacuum does a great job of sucking up both dust and debris.
Also, the 27-foot power cord adds convenience as you can vacuum large areas without having to unplug the unit often. The triple-action brush roll picks up pet hair, lint, and cat litter like no other.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 13 x 14 x 46 inches
- Weight: 19.19 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 1 liter
- Specialty Tools: Combination dusting brush/upholstery tool, crevice tool, extension wand, pet hair corner tool, and pet TurboEraser
- Warranty: 4 years limited
Pros
- Comes with many attachments for specialized cleaning.
- Longest hose available on Bissell models, which offers greater coverage.
- Strong suction power to pick up dust, debris, and pet hair.
- Washable filters are easy to clean and reuse, saving money.
Cons
- Bulky and heavy to carry and difficult to store.
- Pet hair may easily clog the belt, which then needs to be untangled.
06. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 (Versatile Cleaning Option)
The Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 is the best Shark vacuum for stairs because you can detach the canister from the base and carry it while cleaning, thanks to its Lift-Away feature.
Weighing 7.5 lbs, the canister is lightweight enough to carry while you clean the stairs. You only have to press a button to lift the canister from the roller base. The upholstery tool attachment is quite helpful in cleaning the stairs because the spinning roller easily loosens the dirt.
The suction power is strong enough to pick up almost anything, including pet hair. We like its brush roll-on/off controls because you can switch between carpets and bare floors in a breeze. The adjustable suction power makes it easy to transition from high-pile carpets to low-pile carpets and hard floors.
While this vacuum is a little pricier than the others mentioned above, the cleaning power and filtration make it a good choice for those with children and pets. For medium and large homes, you couldn’t find a better vacuum.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 14.9 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches
- Weight: 15.96 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 1.2 quarts
- Specialty Tools: Crevice tool, and upholstery tool
- Warranty: 5 years
Pros
- Easy to switch between carpets and hardwood floors
- Extra-large dirt cup capacity allows for uninterrupted cleaning.
- A detachable canister makes it easy to clean the stairs and convert the unit to a handheld device.
- Strong suction power can dislodge all kinds of stubborn dirt.
Cons
- Lack height controls to push deeper on carpets
- A bit heavy to carry around the stairs, especially for the elderly.
07. Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252 (Best for Hardwood Floors)
The Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252 is quite similar to the 2254 but has a shorter power cord and hose lengths. It also lacks the automatic cord rewind and the pet hair corner tool attachment. However, it uses scatter-free technology to clear debris quickly from edge to edge.
The Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252 is a bagless upright vacuum cleaner designed for stairs, low pile carpet, bare floors, and smaller rugs. It’s Bissell’s most affordable upright pet vacuum that offers the same unique features, like the triple-action brush roll and scatter-free technology. It’s more lightweight than 2254, but it’s still not convenient to bring it upstairs while you clean.
We love that this vacuum includes the Pet TurboEraser to clean smaller areas like your stairs. This upright vacuum has lots of suction power to pick up dirt, dust, and even pet hair. It’s a little noisy, but it doesn’t matter because it’s easy to empty the canister and clean the filters.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 13 x 14 x 44.5 inches
- Weight: 17.56 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 1 liter
- Specialty Tools: Combination dusting brush/upholstery tool, crevice tool, extension wand, and pet TurboEraser
- Warranty: 3 years limited
Pros
- Comes at a very good price in the context of its performance.
- Good suction power picks up everything, including pet hair and litter.
- Easy to assemble, clean the filter, store, and empty the bin.
- Cyclonic suction and triple-brush rolls can dislodge deeply embedded dirt.
Cons
- The hose is a bit shorter, which can be pretty inconvenient at times.
- Very loud while running and can cause disruptions or frighten children and pets.
08. EUREKA EasyClean 71B (Dual Motor Model)
The EUREKA EasyClean 71B is a great contender as the best hand vacuum for stairs because it’s corded, lightweight, and powerful. It’s also one of the cheapest models on this list.
It is a corded handheld vacuum that is specially designed for stairs and upholstery. It weighs around 4.85 lbs making it relatively lightweight and easy to carry around. There’s no specific mention about the exact size of the dust cup capacity. Still, looking at it, it’s pretty tiny, so it fills up pretty quickly.
The suction power is quite excellent for a handheld vacuum because it picks up pet hair and medium particles well. It features two motors, one for suction and another for the brush, to ensure better cleaning performance. We love the River Visor feature because it allows you to clean the stairs both vertically and horizontally.
It is highly portable, and you can take it with you anywhere you go. Meanwhile, the 20-foot cord offers extended reach, allowing you to clean crevices with ease. Also, it cleans carpets and hardwood floors equally well and vinyl, marble, and tile without scratching or damaging them.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 178 x 381 x 203 inches
- Weight: 4.85 pounds
- Dust Cup Capacity:
- Specialty Tools: Crevice tool
- Warranty: 1 year
You may also like: Eureka 2 in 1 Stick Vacuum Reviews
Pros
- Cleans vertically and horizontally, thanks to the Riser Visor.
- Has two motors for optimum cleaning performance.
- Corded for uninterrupted power and vacuuming.
- Compact and lightweight for easy use and storage.
Cons
- Pet hair sticks to the filter and needs to be cleaned periodically.
09. Bissell Cleanview Deluxe Handheld Vacuum 47R51 (Budget Pick)
The Bissell Cleanview Deluxe 47R51 is almost the same as the Pet Hair Eraser. Still, it’s worth the extra price for including many attachments, which let you reach tight places. This corded vacuum is designed for stairs, cars, and upholstery.
This Cleanview Deluxe 47R51 is a lightweight handheld vacuum with an 18-feet power cord to give uninterrupted power. We love the see-through dirt container because it’s clear to see when it’s filled and time to empty it. The rubber nozzle takes some time to get used to, expecting to exert a little extra effort when removing pet hair.
The hose is an excellent feature to extend your reach, and the motor is quiet enough not to scare your pets. It uses a HEPA filter to purify the air, and It’s capable of cleaning carpeted stairs. We love the compact design of this vacuum, but we found the handle oddly angled, making it a bit hard to use.
Folks with smaller homes and staircases will prefer a smaller unit like this one. Besides being easy to carry and maneuver, the compact size makes storage convenient. It is also a low-maintenance unit, easy to empty and clean out from time to time.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 10 x 5 x 8 inches
- Weight: 4.65 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.78 liter
- Specialty Tools: Crevice tool and wide mouth tool
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Pros
- Clear dirt container for easy viewing
- Hose attachments extend the reach and cover more ground while cleaning
- Lightweight and compact make cleaning and storage easy.
- Easy to clean and empty the dust cup.
Cons
- The slightly odd angle of the handle makes it a little hard to use.
- The rubber nozzle needs some time to get used to.
10. Bissell Pet Hair Handheld Vacuum 33A1 (Cheapest Option)
Thanks to its flexible rubber nozzle, the Bissell 33A1 is another best handheld vacuum for stairs and pet hair. It automatically adjusts to each curve, thoroughly cleaning your stairs, upholstery, and vehicle interiors without much effort on your part.
The Bissell 33A1 is a bagless handheld vacuum with two nozzles: a specialized rubber nozzle and a suction nozzle. The rubber nozzle is excellent in capturing dirt and pet hair as it wraps around the contours of your stairs. The suction nozzle is perfect for sucking up dry clutter, like dog food and cat litter.
The 16-foot power cord is long, but you may need to unplug it several times if you want to clean a tall flight of stairs. This corded vacuum is built with a HEPA filter, so you can’t wash it to clean.
What you can do is give the filter a tap to remove the accumulated dirt and dust. As for the dust bin, emptying it is pretty easy since all you need to do is push the release lever to detach it.
Product Specifications:
- Dimensions: 10 x 5 x 8 inches
- Weight: 4.2 pounds
- Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.78 liter
- Specialty Tools: Suction nozzle
- Warranty: 1 year limited
Pros
- The dust bin is easy to empty and clean.
- Comes with a powerful suction nozzle that can target filthy areas.
- Can pick up pet hair, dust, litter, and small debris.
- Very affordable.
Cons
- Short power cord and comes with no hose.
Buying Guide for the Best Vacuum for Cleaning Stairs
If you want to pick a new vacuum cleaner for your stairs, you must know what exactly to look for. This buyer’s guide should help you learn the different types of vacuum cleaners and some features you need to consider when buying the best vacuum for stairs, carpets, and pets.
So which is the best vacuum for stairs?
The best vacuum for stairs should have a slender profile that’s easy to move around the stairs. Cordless is the best option, but ensure that they have a long hose to leave the base unit at the bottom of the stairs if you want to opt for other types.
Types Of Vacuum Cleaners:
When buying a vacuum, the first thing to consider is to determine the different types of vacuum cleaners that might help you clean the stairs. Let’s describe each option for you.
Handheld:
These handheld vacuum models are super lightweight and portable, making them the best option for cleaning the stairs. These small vacuum cleaners may come corded or cordless.
Although they’re pretty handy for quick surface cleaning on carpets and stairs, they lack the power of upright or canister models. Picking a handheld unit with powerful suction is always a safe bet.
Canister:
Composed of a tank with a hose, canister vacuums are powerful suckers that suit cleaning the stairs because they’re compact and usually made of a long hose. The only downside is that you have to lug it up and down the stairs, which isn’t an issue if it’s lightweight.
If your stairs are carpeted, make sure the canister has a motorized brush roll head to pick up everything, including pet hair. Oreck Commercial BB900DGR XL Pro 5 is a good option if this is what you want.
Stick:
Stick vacuum models are slim and lightweight, making them also a good option for cleaning the stairs. They have a light suction and a rotating brush to throw debris away into a bag or dust cup. Some can even turn into a handheld vac when you detach the wand making them more versatile than other vacuum models.
Upright:
An upright vacuum like this one is the best vacuum for carpets and stairs because it has a powerful suction to clean even the most stubborn dirt and pet hair. However, these models are heavy and bulky making them the least desirable among the bunch. For maximum convenience, look for a long hose to leave on the floor and a brush roll shutoff to switch between carpets and bare floors.
Cord Type: Cord vs. Cordless
Corded or cordless is one of the important decisions you have to make in picking a vacuum cleaner for stairs.
Corded vacuums give uninterrupted power without the fear of the battery fading away. They also tend to have higher suction power and greater capacity to collect dust. However, corded vacuums need a power outlet to run so this unit is useless if you have power interruption in your area. The length of the cord can also get in your way if you carry it upstairs or downstairs, restricting your movement.
Cordless vacuums are more lightweight and compact than their corded counterparts making them more convenient to carry around the stairs. They still pack a lot of power despite their size and you can reach the top part of the stairs without any obstacles. However, they have limited capacity due to their battery and they tend to be expensive for the technology they offer.
Bag Type: Bagged Vs Bagless:
Vacuum cleaners can also be categorized as either bagless or bagged. Both types of cleaners work the same as far as sucking dirt is concerned. However, the process of disposal of every kind has a lot of implications.
Bagged vacuums tend to be more hygienic than their bagless counterparts because the technological advancements help contain the dirt and allergens inside the bag. These vacuums also tend to have larger dust bag capacities which means less maintenance. However, you need to purchase more bags if they get filled in the middle of cleaning; otherwise, the performance decreases.
Bagless vacuums are more economical and eco-friendly since you don’t need to replace the bag when it gets filled. It’s easy to know when the dust cup/bin fills because these units are usually made of clear chambers. However, you get exposed to possible allergens when you empty the cup.
Suction Power:
The best vacuum for pet hair and stairs should have strong suction power. A smaller vacuum doesn’t always mean a weaker power. Due to technological developments, many handheld vacuums have enough energy to clean your stairs thoroughly. The MOOSOO Cordless Vacuum XL-618A or Bissell Cleanview Swivel Rewind Pet 2254 are both excellent options.
Weight:
The weight of the vacuum matters when cleaning the stairs because you should find one that doesn’t strain your hands and wrists every time you lift it. Look for the most lightweight vacuum to clean the stairs. The most lightweight vacuums can weigh less than 5 lbs.
Anything above 10 lbs is already heavy to carry. A 10-lb weight may be equivalent to a large bag of potatoes, an adult Maltese dog, or a domestic cat. If you want to pick a heavier vacuum, ensure that it offers a long hose so you can leave the base unit at the bottom of the stairs.
Dust Bag/Bin Capacity:
Look for a vacuum with large dirt capacity, at least 0.78 liters, so you don’t have to empty it frequently. The best units have dust bags or bins that are easy to open with a simple press of a button to avoid getting exposed to the dirt.
Maneuverability:
A cordless vacuum offers the best maneuverability when you clean the stairs because it comes without a cord. If you opt for upright or stick vacuums, look for a model with a swiveling body and a long hose (at least 15 feet) to leave the base at the bottom of the stairs. A pivoting head is excellent in cleaning the tight corners of the stairs. At the same time, an ergonomic handle eases out the strain from your hand.
Attachments:
The number of attachments doesn’t always mean better. Functionality is key in considering the value of the attachments. For example, the motorized brush roll is essential for carpeted stairs because it helps remove the carpet’s embedded dirt and pet hair.
A crevice tool helps loosen up the dirt that’s embedded along the edges of the stairs, while an extension wand helps you reach more areas. A vacuum with a decent number of functional accessories is a safe pick any day.
Warranty:
Most vacuums offer a 1-year warranty while premium models give as much as five years. Sometimes, the warranty period can be a great indicator of quality. The longer the warranty, the more durable it seems to be. Aside from the warranty period, check the terms, so you’ll know what parts are covered.
| Product | Performance | Ease of Use | Longevity | Noise Levels |
| Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum 2390A | 9.9 | 9.9 | 9.9 | 9.8 |
| MOOSOO Cordless Vacuum XL-618A | 9.9 | 9.8 | 9.8 | 9.9 |
| Homasy Handheld Portable Vacuum HM207A | 9.8 | 9.8 | 9.8 | 9.8 |
| Oreck Commercial BB900DGR XL Pro 5 | 9.8 | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.7 |
| Bissell Cleanview Swivel Rewind Pet 2254 | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.7 | 9.7 |
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 | 9.7 | 9.7 | 9.7 | 9.7 |
| Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252 | 9.8 | 9.8 | 9.7 | 9.7 |
| EUREKA EasyClean 71B | 9.7 | 9.7 | 9.6 | 9.6 |
| Bissell Cleanview Deluxe Handheld Vacuum 47R51 | 9.6 | 9.8 | 9.5 | 9.8 |
| Bissell Pet Hair Handheld Vacuum 33A1 | 9.6 | 9.7 | 9.5 | 9.7 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find answers to questions people tend to have about vacuums for stairs.
01. What is the Best Vacuum for Stairs and Carpets?
The most suitable vacuum for carpeted stairs includes a brush roller attachment to get better rid of the embedded dirt from the carpet. Most of the dust accumulates in the corners and edges of the carpeted stairs. For this reason, the vacuum cleaner should have the correct nozzle attachment to clean around the edges and corners of the stairs.
02. What is the Best Way to Clean Carpeted Stairs?
First, loosen the dirt and debris using a stiff brush. Once you’re done, vacuum to remove the loosened debris from the stairs starting at the top. Work your way down every step so you don’t walk over the dirt in the area that has already been cleaned. Next, shampoo every stair with a scrubbing brush. Soak up the moisture with absorbent towels or a carpet cleaner, then let it dry naturally overnight.
03. How Do I Vacuum Hardwood Stairs?
Pick up any large object, like toys, lying on the hardwood floor before you start vacuuming. The best vacuum for hardwood stairs is canister models with rotating brushes. Using that model, work it around the corners to remove any accumulated dirt—work from top to bottom.
04. What is the Best Vacuum for Stairs and Pets?
The most suitable vacuum for pet hair has floor nozzles and tools with rubber trim and lifted “fingers” to disentangle the fur. To keep the pet hair from clogging the brush, look for tangle-free brush rolls. HEPA filters are better than standard ones in trapping possible allergens caused by your pets.
05. How Often Should I Vacuum My Stairs?
For carpeted stairs, home experts recommend vacuuming them at least twice a week if you have pets at home; vacuum daily to remove pet hair and other microscopic allergens that might be present on the stairs.
Conclusion
So that wraps it up! Along with the buying guide, here are your options for vacuuming your stairs. There is a good chance that the best vacuum for stairs will last you for ages so choose wisely so that you don’t end up with buyer’s remorse. With all that being said, which vacuum do you plan on choosing for your home?
OUR #1 RECOMMENDATION
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum 2390A
Regardless of the excellent vacuums on this list, the top pick is undoubtedly the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser 2390A. Whether you have pets or little kids, it is a good choice as it comes with specialized tools to pick up pet hair, crumbs, and even cat litter.
It barely weighs 3.1 lbs making it very handy to use on the stairs. Furthermore, this vacuum is convenient to use on the stairs because it’s super lightweight. It comes with an ergonomic looped handle to give a secure grip.