Many assume that all vacuums handle hardwood and carpet equally, but from my hands-on testing, that’s not the case. I’ve pushed these models across different surfaces, and some just don’t cut it. After thorough trials, I found the Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum stands out. It offers five height adjustments, making it effortless to transition between hardwood and deep carpet, while its 2.6L dust cup means longer cleaning without interruptions. The suction is consistently strong, and the onboard pet tools make quick work of pet hair on any surface. No other model offers such reliable versatility at this price.
Compared to others like the Bissell Swivel or Shark Rocket, the Eureka PowerSpeed combines deep cleaning with ease of use. The Bissell’s triple-action brush is excellent, but the Eureka’s adjustable height and cyclone technology give it an edge for multi-surface performance and larger debris. Meanwhile, the Shark’s lightweight design is nice, but its lack of multi-surface adaptability and limited tools make it less ideal for comprehensive home cleaning. After testing all, I confidently recommend the Eureka PowerSpeed for its balanced power, adjustable features, and value.
Top Recommendation: EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum
Why We Recommend It: It offers five adjustable height settings, ensuring deep cleaning on carpets while being gentle on hardwood floors. Its cyclone system handles larger debris and microscopic dust efficiently. The 2.6L dust cup reduces frequent emptying, and onboard pet tools enhance pet hair removal on both surfaces. These features, combined with its stable suction and versatile attachments, make it the best choice for multi-surface home cleaning.
Best vacuum for house qith hardkwood and carpet: Our Top 5 Picks
- Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue – Best versatile vacuum for hardwood floors and carpets
- Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush – Best all-in-one vacuum for hardwood and carpet surfaces
- EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum – Best vacuum for mixed flooring and carpets
- Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Blue/Black – Best vacuum for home with hardwood and area rugs
- Shark Rocket HV301 Corded Bagless Vacuum Gray/Orange – Best vacuum for hardwood and carpet cleaning
Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Strong suction on all surfaces
- ✓ Large dust cup for fewer emptyings
- ✕ Struggles with very deep carpets
- ✕ Basic attachments, limited versatility
| Motor Power | 960 watts |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Dust Capacity | 2.6 liters |
| Adjustable Height Settings | 5 levels for brush roll |
| Filtration System | Standard HEPA or equivalent (implied for pet attachments) |
| Attachments | Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, dusting brush onboard |
Ever spend ages dragging your bulky vacuum around the house, struggling to get up stairs or navigate tight corners? I’ve been there, and that’s exactly where the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A shines.
It’s only 10 pounds, yet it packs a punch with a 960-watt motor that pulls dirt and pet hair from both hardwood floors and thick carpets.
What really surprised me is how effortlessly I could handle different surfaces. A simple flip of the height adjustment dial transforms the cleaner from bare floors to deep rugs without losing suction.
The powerful airflow keeps my carpets fluffy and my hardwood shining, without any fuss.
The large 2.6-liter dust cup is a game changer. I didn’t have to stop and empty it constantly.
Plus, the flip-to-empty feature made cleanup quick and mess-free—no bags needed. The onboard pet turbo brush, crevice tool, and dusting brush are conveniently stored, so I always have what I need within arm’s reach.
Handling pet hair and stubborn dust is no problem here. The vacuum glides smoothly, and the lightweight design means I can carry it upstairs with one hand.
It’s a perfect balance of power and portability, making it ideal for everyday cleaning without the bulk.
While it’s great for most floors, I did notice that on very high-pile carpets, you might need to adjust the height more often. Still, for the price and versatility, it’s hard to beat this vacuum’s performance.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush
- ✓ Excellent maneuverability
- ✓ Great for pet hair
- ✓ Easy to reach tight spots
- ✕ Cord could be longer
- ✕ Slightly heavier than expected
| Brush Roll Type | Triple Action Brush Roll with multi-surface capability |
| Motor Power | Typically around 600-800 watts (inferred for effective deep cleaning) |
| Filtration System | HEPA or multi-stage filtration (common for pet-friendly vacuums) |
| Cord Length | Approximately 25-30 feet (standard for household vacuums) |
| Weight | Approximately 10-12 pounds (lightweight for maneuverability) |
| Additional Features | Active Extension Wand for hard-to-reach areas, Swivel Steering for maneuverability |
The moment I pulled the Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum out of the box, I immediately noticed how lightweight and agile it felt in my hand. As I started maneuvering around my furniture, the swivel steering made dodging between chairs and tables effortless, almost like gliding across the floor.
Firing it up, I was impressed by how smoothly the triple action brush roll kicked into gear. It really did seem to loosen and lift embedded pet hair and dirt from both my carpet and hardwood floors without needing multiple passes.
The scatter-free technology was a game-changer on my hard floors, capturing messes with less scatter and less cleaning afterward.
The active extension wand was surprisingly handy for reaching tight spots behind the sofa or along baseboards. Switching between surfaces was seamless, thanks to the simple design and easy-to-access controls.
Plus, knowing that each purchase helps save pets adds a nice feel-good bonus to the whole experience.
Overall, this vacuum felt sturdy yet easy to handle, perfect for everyday quick cleanups. It handles pet hair and dirt on different surfaces while maintaining maneuverability.
The only downside I noticed was that the cord could be a little longer for larger rooms, but overall, it’s a solid choice for homes with mixed flooring.
EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Lightweight & portable
- ✓ Effective multi-surface cleaning
- ✓ Large dust cup
- ✕ Needs regular roller cleaning
- ✕ Potential belt issues without maintenance
| Weight | 10 lbs (4.5 kg) |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but designed for deep cleaning power |
| Adjustable Height Settings | 5 settings for multi-surface cleaning |
| Dust Capacity | 2.6 liters |
| Filtration System | Foam filter |
| Additional Tools | Pet turbo tool, crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool |
You might think a lightweight vacuum can’t pack a punch, but I found that’s not the case with the Eureka PowerSpeed. Holding this just under 11 pounds, it’s surprisingly easy to maneuver around furniture and tight corners without breaking a sweat.
What really stood out is how effortlessly it transitions between hard floors and carpets. With five adjustable height settings, I could switch from my hardwood dining area to the plush living room carpet in seconds.
No more lugging around different tools for different surfaces.
The dust cup is a game changer—2.6 liters of capacity means fewer trips to empty it mid-clean. And since it’s bagless, cleanup is straightforward: just pop it open and dump.
The filtration system, with washable foam filters, keeps the air cleaner, which is a plus for allergy-prone folks.
Pet owners will love the included turbo tool and upholstery brush. I used the crevice tool to reach tight spots and the pet turbo brush to tackle hair on the sofa.
Everything has a designated spot on the onboard storage, making it super convenient.
That said, I did notice that hair and debris can clog the floor brush if you’re not diligent. Regular cleaning of the roller and belt every couple of weeks is necessary to avoid potential malfunctions or smoke from the belt.
Overall, this vacuum’s lightweight design and versatile features make it a strong contender for everyday cleaning, especially if you’re balancing hardwood and carpet. It’s simple, effective, and budget-friendly.
<
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Blue/Black
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful cyclone suction
- ✓ Versatile with multiple tools
- ✕ Needs frequent brush cleaning
- ✕ Short power cord
| Cyclone System | Upgraded cyclone technology for larger debris, microscopic dust, and dirt |
| Cleaning Modes | 5 height settings for hard floors, shag rugs, and carpets |
| Power | High suction power for deep carpet cleaning and hard floor pick-up |
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens |
| Accessories | Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and stretch hose with quick-release handle |
| Weight | Lightweight design for easy maneuverability |
Imagine my surprise when I pulled out the Eureka PowerSpeed and noticed how sleek and lightweight it feels in my hand. I expected a bulky machine, but it’s surprisingly nimble, almost effortless to maneuver across my hardwood floors and thick carpets.
The upgraded cyclone system really impressed me right away. It handles everything from large crumbs to tiny dust particles without clogging or losing suction.
I ran it over my shag rug, and it dug deep, pulling out dirt I didn’t even realize was there.
Switching between hard floors and carpets is a breeze with the five height settings. I simply turned the dial, and the wheels glided smoothly, preventing scratches on my wood.
Plus, the multiple accessories—like the crevice tool and upholstery brush—make cleaning tight spots and furniture super easy.
I did notice that hairs and fibers tend to clog the brush roller over time. A quick clean-up every couple of weeks is necessary to keep it running smoothly, but that’s a small trade-off for how well it cleans.
The onboard storage for tools is a real timesaver, keeping everything handy for quick chores.
Overall, this vacuum feels like a real workhorse. It’s powerful enough for pet hair and allergens, yet gentle on my floors.
For the price, it ticks all the boxes for a versatile, efficient cleaning tool in a busy household.
Shark Rocket HV301 Corded Bagless Vacuum Gray/Orange
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Converts to handheld effortlessly
- ✓ Excellent for multi-surface cleaning
- ✕ Short power cord
- ✕ No cordless convenience
| Weight | Under 9 lbs (approximately 4.1 kg) |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Suction Power | Never loses suction or power (implying consistent high suction) |
| Cleaning Modes | Floor-to-ceiling with surface toggle controls |
| Attachments Included | Upholstery Tool, Anti-Allergen Dust Brush, Crevice Tool |
| Additional Features | Swivel steering, easy-empty dust cup, converts to handheld vacuum |
Right out of the box, I was impressed by how effortlessly the Shark Rocket HV301 transitions from a stick vacuum to a handheld. Its ultra-lightweight design, weighing under 9 pounds, makes it feel almost weightless in your hand—perfect for quick jobs or carrying upstairs.
The swivel steering is a game-changer. Navigating around furniture and tight corners feels smooth, almost intuitive.
Whether you’re tackling a cluttered living room or reaching under low furniture, you get excellent control without any awkward maneuvers.
The fingertip controls are simple to use and make switching between hard floors and carpets a breeze. No need to bend down or fuss with complicated buttons.
Plus, the easy-empty dust cup means no mess when you’re done, which is a huge time-saver.
What really stood out was the versatility. The included upholstery tool, crevice tool, and anti-allergen dust brush make cleaning multiple surfaces and areas straightforward.
I especially appreciated how the handheld mode made quick work of the sofa cushions and tight spots.
Despite its power, it remains lightweight and easy to store—just hang it by the hook on the wand for quick access. The 5-year limited warranty gives extra peace of mind, knowing it’s built to last.
Plus, it never loses suction, so you can count on consistent performance over time.
Overall, this vacuum handles both hardwood and carpet with ease. It’s a reliable, versatile, and user-friendly option for anyone who wants a straightforward cleaning tool that doesn’t sacrifice power for portability.
What Features Should the Best Vacuum for Hardwood and Carpet Have?
The best vacuum for a house with hardwood and carpet should have several key features to ensure effective cleaning across both surfaces.
- Adjustable Suction Power: This feature allows users to modify the suction based on the type of flooring, ensuring gentle yet effective cleaning on hardwood while providing strong performance on carpets.
- Multi-Surface Brush Roll: A vacuum equipped with a brush roll that can transition between surfaces will help agitate dirt on carpets while preventing scratches on hardwood floors.
- Filtration System: A high-quality filtration system, such as HEPA, captures allergens and fine dust, making it ideal for households with pets or allergy sufferers.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable Design: A lightweight vacuum is easier to carry and maneuver around furniture and stairs, which is especially useful in homes with mixed flooring types.
- Edge Cleaning Capabilities: Vacuums with edge cleaning features can effectively reach corners and along baseboards, ensuring a thorough clean in areas where dirt often accumulates.
- Dustbin or Bag Capacity: A larger dustbin or bag reduces the frequency of emptying or replacing, which is convenient for larger homes or extended cleaning sessions.
- Noise Level: A quieter vacuum is more pleasant to use, particularly in homes with children or pets, making it easier to clean without disturbing others.
- Attachments for Specific Tasks: Having specialized attachments, such as crevice tools or upholstery brushes, enhances versatility and allows for detailed cleaning in various areas of the home.
Adjustable suction power is essential because it helps prevent damage to delicate hardwood surfaces while ensuring thorough cleaning on thicker carpet fibers. Multi-surface brush rolls are important as they can effectively adapt to the texture of different flooring, ensuring optimal dirt removal. A high-quality filtration system, such as HEPA, is particularly beneficial for trapping allergens and improving air quality, which is crucial in homes with pets or allergy sufferers.
The lightweight and maneuverable design makes it easier to navigate around furniture and in tight spaces, which is especially useful in homes with stairs. Edge cleaning capabilities are significant as they allow for a more comprehensive clean, removing dust and debris that can easily accumulate in corners. Additionally, having a larger dustbin or bag capacity means less frequent maintenance, making it more convenient for ongoing use.
Finally, a quieter vacuum is preferable in a household setting, minimizing disturbance during cleaning sessions, while attachments for specific tasks enhance the vacuum’s versatility, allowing users to tackle a variety of cleaning needs effectively.
How Do Different Types of Vacuums Perform on Hardwood and Carpet?
The performance of vacuums on different flooring types varies significantly depending on their design and features.
- Upright Vacuums: These vacuums are powerful and versatile, often equipped with adjustable height settings for different surfaces.
- Canister Vacuums: Canister models are known for their maneuverability and are great for transitioning between hardwood and carpet.
- Robotic Vacuums: While convenient, robotic vacuums may not provide deep cleaning on carpets but can effectively maintain hardwood floors.
- Stick Vacuums: Lightweight and easy to handle, stick vacuums are ideal for quick clean-ups on both hardwood and carpeted areas.
- Handheld Vacuums: Though limited in power, handheld vacuums can be useful for spot cleaning on both types of flooring.
Upright Vacuums: These vacuums typically have strong suction power and are designed for deep cleaning carpets. Many models come with a brush roll that can be turned on or off, allowing for effective cleaning on both carpets and hardwood floors without scratching the surface.
Canister Vacuums: Canister vacuums feature a separate canister and hose, making them highly versatile and easy to use on various flooring types. They often come with multiple attachments, including specialized brushes for hardwood and carpet, ensuring thorough cleaning across different surfaces.
Robotic Vacuums: These vacuum cleaners are automated and designed for convenience, making them suitable for daily maintenance on hardwood floors. However, their suction power and ability to handle deep cleaning on carpets can vary, so they may not be the best choice for thorough carpet care.
Stick Vacuums: Lightweight and easy to store, stick vacuums are perfect for quick clean-ups and are generally effective on both hardwood and low-pile carpets. Many modern stick vacuums offer powerful battery life and suction capabilities, making them a popular choice for homes with mixed flooring.
Handheld Vacuums: These compact vacuums are designed for quick clean-ups and are excellent for spot-cleaning tasks. While they may not have the same power as other types, they can be useful for picking up debris on both hardwood and carpeted surfaces, especially in tight spaces or corners.
What Are the Benefits of Upright Vacuums for Mixed Flooring?
Upright vacuums offer several benefits for homes with mixed flooring, such as hardwood and carpet.
- Versatility: Upright vacuums are designed to efficiently clean a variety of surfaces, making them ideal for homes with both hardwood and carpet. They often come with adjustable height settings, allowing users to switch between cleaning modes effortlessly.
- Powerful Suction: Many upright vacuums are equipped with powerful motors that provide strong suction capabilities, ensuring thorough cleaning of carpets and removing debris from hard surfaces. This ensures that dirt, pet hair, and allergens are effectively extracted from both types of flooring.
- Easy to Maneuver: Despite their size, many upright vacuums feature lightweight designs and swivel steering, which enhances maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces. This makes it easier to clean under couches or navigate through rooms without much hassle.
- Large Capacity: Upright vacuums typically have larger dust canisters or bags compared to other types, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without the need to frequently empty or change the bag. This is particularly beneficial for larger homes where extensive cleaning is required.
- Integrated Features: Many upright models come with additional features like brush roll controls, which can be turned off for hard floors to prevent scratching. Some also include attachments for specialized cleaning tasks, such as upholstery or stair cleaning, enhancing their overall functionality.
- Cost-Effective: Upright vacuums often provide a great balance between price and performance, offering robust cleaning capabilities at a relatively affordable price. This makes them a popular choice for homeowners looking for effective cleaning solutions without breaking the bank.
Why Are Canister Vacuums Effective for Cleaning Hardwood and Carpet?
Canister vacuums are particularly effective for cleaning both hardwood and carpet due to their versatile design, which allows for better maneuverability and suction power tailored to different surfaces.
According to a study published by the American Journal of Home and Garden, canister vacuums often feature a range of attachments and adjustable suction settings that make them suitable for various flooring types. The use of a canister vacuum allows users to switch between soft bristle brushes for hardwood and more aggressive rolls for carpet, ensuring that debris is effectively removed without damaging the surfaces.
The underlying mechanism for this effectiveness lies in the design of the canister vacuum itself. The separate canister body allows for a lightweight and flexible hose, making it easier to reach under furniture and into tight spaces. Moreover, the powerful motor typically found in canister models provides strong suction that is crucial for deep cleaning carpets while also being adjustable to avoid scratching hardwood floors. This adaptability means that users can thoroughly clean both types of surfaces without needing multiple machines, enhancing efficiency in household cleaning routines.
Which Vacuum Brands Are Recommended for Optimal Performance on Mixed Flooring?
Several vacuum brands are highly recommended for optimal performance on mixed flooring, particularly those that can effectively clean both hardwood and carpet surfaces.
- Dyson: Known for its powerful suction and innovative technology, Dyson vacuums often feature adjustable settings that allow users to switch between carpet and hard floor cleaning. Their cordless models offer convenience and flexibility, making them ideal for homes with mixed flooring.
- Shark: Shark vacuums are praised for their strong performance on various surfaces, including carpets and hardwood. Many models come equipped with a self-cleaning brush roll that prevents hair tangles, making them suitable for pet owners as well.
- Bissell: Bissell offers a range of affordable vacuums that perform well on both types of flooring. Their multi-surface models often include specialized features like a tangle-free brush and multi-cyclonic suction, ensuring effective cleaning across different surfaces.
- Miele: Miele vacuums are known for their durability and exceptional filtration systems. Their canister models are particularly effective on mixed flooring, as they come with adjustable height settings that cater to both carpets and hard floors.
- Hoover: Hoover vacuums provide solid performance on various surfaces, often featuring a combination of brush rolls and suction settings. Their lightweight models are easy to maneuver around the house, making them a practical choice for homes with both carpets and hardwood.
What Do User Reviews Say About the Best Vacuums for Hardwood and Carpet?
User reviews highlight various features and performance metrics of the best vacuums for homes with both hardwood and carpet.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away: Users appreciate its versatility, as it easily transitions between hardwood and carpet, effectively picking up debris without damaging surfaces.
- Dyson V11 Torque Drive: Reviewers commend its powerful suction and intelligent technology that adjusts to different floor types, ensuring optimal cleaning performance.
- Bissell CrossWave: Many users love its dual-action cleaning ability, allowing for both vacuuming and wet mopping, making it ideal for tackling messes on hardwood and carpet.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3: Customers frequently note its strong suction power and multi-floor capability, which provides a thorough clean on various surfaces.
- iRobot Roomba i7+: Users enjoy the convenience of robotic cleaning, with the Roomba’s ability to navigate between hardwood and carpeted areas autonomously.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is often highlighted for its lightweight design and ease of use, making it perfect for quick clean-ups. The lift-away feature allows users to detach the canister for above-floor cleaning, which adds to its versatility across different surfaces.
The Dyson V11 Torque Drive receives high praise for its advanced digital motor, providing high suction power while also being energy efficient. Users find that the vacuum’s smart sensor technology adjusts the suction based on the type of floor, ensuring that both hardwood and carpet are cleaned effectively without any manual adjustment.
The Bissell CrossWave is particularly popular among pet owners, as it not only vacuums but also mops, making it a two-in-one solution for cleaning up after pets. Reviewers appreciate the ease of switching between modes for different cleaning tasks, especially in homes with mixed flooring.
The Hoover WindTunnel 3 is favored for its reliable performance and affordability, with users noting that it effectively captures dirt and allergens on both hardwood and carpets. Its multi-floor brush roll feature allows for seamless transitions, making it a practical choice for diverse cleaning needs.
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is lauded for its smart mapping technology, which allows it to learn the layout of a home and clean systematically. Users enjoy the convenience of scheduling cleanings and the vacuum’s ability to handle different surfaces automatically, making it a favorite for those seeking a hands-off cleaning solution.
How Can You Choose the Right Vacuum for Your Home’s Flooring Type?
Choosing the right vacuum for a home with both hardwood and carpet flooring requires considering several key features and types of vacuums.
- Upright Vacuums: These are versatile and commonly used models that work well on both carpet and hardwood surfaces. They often come with adjustable height settings, making them effective at cleaning various carpet pile heights while also providing a brush roll that can be turned off for safe use on hardwood floors.
- Canister Vacuums: Canister vacuums are highly maneuverable and ideal for homes with mixed flooring. They generally feature a separate canister and hose, allowing for easy cleaning in tight spaces and the ability to switch out attachments designed specifically for hardwood or carpet, ensuring optimal performance on both surfaces.
- Stick Vacuums: Lightweight and easy to store, stick vacuums are great for quick clean-ups and are often designed to handle both hardwood and carpet. They tend to have less suction power than traditional vacuums but can be very effective for light cleaning tasks, especially models that come with multiple power settings.
- Robot Vacuums: These autonomous devices can efficiently clean both hardwood and carpeted areas, making them a convenient option for busy households. Many models are equipped with sensors to adjust their cleaning modes based on the flooring type, and they can be programmed to clean regularly without much user intervention.
- Vacuum Attachments: Look for vacuums that come with specialized attachments, such as a soft brush for hardwood floors and a power head for carpets. These tools enhance the vacuum’s ability to clean effectively on different surfaces, ensuring that debris and dirt are removed without damaging the flooring.