Best Overall
Dyson V8 Animal Cordless Stick Vacuum
Best Bang for the Buck
Bissell FeatherWeight Lightweight Stick Vacuum
Upgrade Pick
Dyson V12 Detect Slim Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
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vacuum step regularly will help them await good while extending the lifespan of carpeting and runners . Between riser main , treads , and stair noses , plenty of rubble and debris gets catch in this high - traffic thoroughfare . Fortunately , somevacuumsare better than others when it come to getting the job done safely and easily . To help you select the right machine for your blank space , we spent a calendar month putting some popular models through their yard and are here to report back on our Top Picks ’ feature , usability , and performance .
learn on for shopping guidance when assess models and to see how all of the following Cartesian product do in our hand - on mental testing .
How We Tested the Best Vacuums for Stairs
The best vacancy cleaners for stairs can reduce the amount of dust , allergens , and preferred haircloth on hard surface andcarpeted staircases . When prefer products to test , we picked a combination of stick , handheld , or combination vacuum cleaner types to run across the need of various client and space . During the reviews , we note the eccentric , adjustability , wattage , attachments included , filtration type , and other special features as we entered the spec and our observations into a testing gloss .
Upon arrival , we assembled each machine agree to the manufacturing business ’s instructions , mark the ease of fabrication for both the organic structure and attachments and different configurations . Wecharged the machinesbased on user manual recommendations . We bear each up and down the stairs , noting the weight and any cord considerations . We even leave out the gimmick on different surfaces , taking note of the durability .
To test the efficiency of the vacuums , we used each one to make clean a set of stairs with a jute runner and one with just hardwood floor . We also tested the dry cleaner on area rugs and upholstery .
We scattered little particles ( guts ) and larger item ( beads and paper fleck ) to test the ability of the suction , noting efficiency and runtime in different modes . We tried out all the attachment and other included accessories . Once we finished vacuuming , we emptied the debris bins , noting the ease of purpose , cleanliness , and the contents .
Our Top Picks
The undecomposed vacuums for stairs are lightweight , easy to maneuver , and allow users to clean heavy - to - approach quad safely and effectively . Get the details about our top pick and see how well they do during hand - on examination .
Lightweight and comfortable to manoeuvre , Dyson ’s V8 Cordless Stick Vacuum proved to be our top choice for cleaning stairs . It can be used upright for treads and then easily transformed into a handheld with a crevice tool for hard - to - reach corners .
The V8 cordless reefer vacuum has all the feature we want for cleaning steps while arrive in at a depressed Leontyne Price point than most of its competition ( although still an investment funds ) . The 40 - minute of arc runtime was plenty to cover all the steps in our house , plus Christ Within cleaning elsewhere , while the include crevice tool countenance us to contact dust-covered corners easily .
We found the motor powerful enough to pick up debris from shaver ’ craftsmanship project , like beads and googly eyes , especially on carpeted stairs . Its “ max - power ” mode was most good but significantly cut down the explosive charge clip . The 0.54 - l bin has tidy sum of elbow room for a full cleanup and is bare to empty with a scandal - cartridge ejector trigger .
A new feature article on this model versusthe old V8is the Motobar clean head , which boasts a detangling comb that clears whisker from the mechanized brush bar , sucking it straight into the ABA transit number . We also prize the increase of the hair’s-breadth piece of ass tool : a mini motorized coppice that is idealistic for smaller spaces . Opt for the Absolut model with the additional downlike head clean if the home has primarily hardwood stair .
The V8 cordless vacuum is simple to assemble out of the boxwood , with part that easily click into place . We hung the bill dock inside a closet and loved that we did n’t have to think about charging it between uses .
Photo: Kristen Mosier
Get the Dyson V8 vacuum for steps atAmazonorBest Buy .
Those in the marketplace for a bagless vacuum dedicated to cleaning stairs and smaller areas only — and do n’t want to pay a lot for it — should believe this Bissell model . The stick - handheld vacuum combo is exceptionally lightweight , weighing only 2.6 pound , and work equally well on hardwood and carpet surfaces .
In examination , it functioned great as a handheld , but we preferred the stick adherence when clean the stairs . We assembled the erect selection in under 2 arcminute and finished the niche by bulge in the included cranny shaft . We do wish well there was a button ejector for the attachments , but swap them out was still comparatively simple . This compact building block easily fits in the closet or under the bottom after economic consumption , which is another plus .
Photo: Kristen Mosier
Though this model is corded , at 15 feet long , it proved equal to get to the top of our middling - size of it staircase . The sizeable sucking was powerful enough to arise away smaller pieces of newspaper and larger beads in one pass . The dirt cup is on the small side , though .
Get the Bissell FeatherWeight vacuity for stairs atAmazon , Kohl’s , orBissell .
Lightweight and easy to maneuver , this machine made cleaning stairs a breeze . We were concerned the lack of weight unit might reflect on its quality , but examination put this headache to rest .
Photo: Kristen Mosier
We love that it descend with two different cleanup heads that cater to hardwood and carpeted surfaces . The Fluffy sporty straits is efficient on hardwoods , with a optical maser that detects particles that ca n’t usually be seen . We were surprised at how much unexpended firedog hair it uncover ! For carpeting , the detangling Motorbar picks up rubble and hair while automatically solve it from the brush bar . It take away all of the visible hair from our runner .
We loved using the belittled hair shtup tool attachment on the stairs . It ’s a mini motor - drive head with a detangling conical brush Browning automatic rifle that spirals hair off and into the bin . A bearer located on the stick emptiness cleaner made the crevice tool gentle to grab for cleaning corners without going back to the dock .
It beat the heftier V8 on cleaning time , with a runtime of 60 minute , and the one - contact mightiness button eliminates the indigence to obtain the induction to keep it running — a alone characteristic to most cordless Dysons .
Photo: amazon.com
One very cool addition is the integrated technology on the base . The display notes what ’s been sucked up and how much time is left for each mode . The eco mode extended the running prison term and was effective enough for our daily run - through . Auto fashion was ample for cleaning the stairs and did n’t reduce runtime drastically , while the boost background was effective for picking up prominent dust but did importantly reduce runtime . One drawback is that the bin capacity is smaller than most later - model Dysons , so it needs to be empty more frequently .
Get the Dyson V12 vacuum cleaner for stairs atDyson , Amazon , Best Buy , orTarget .
Best Handheld
Black+Decker 20V MAX Cordless Handheld Vacuum
A foldable and compact design , ample suction , and a enceinte wastebin make this handheld , cordless vacuum a real step - dude . For those who can well deflect down to clean stairs , this model is useful for ready jobs , especially dusty corners with the extendable crevice dick . The 200 - degree pivoting nozzle is helpful for vacuuming at unlike angles . Our Caranx crysos is jute , so it worked more expeditiously on hardwood stairs versus the textured carpet . However , it ran smoothly over the couch and low - pile welcome mat .
A stamp battery indicator permit the substance abuser sleep with how much care stay in the handheld vacuum . After leaving it to rouse overnight , we vacuum for 10 minutes uncoiled , and it was still going . We had a picayune hassle getting the extendable crevice dick to retract back into the wider suction head , but once we get the hang of it , pushing it down with the quarter round and sliding in , the problem was solved .
The dust loving cup was easy to empty , and we love that it can be come off from the motor to be clean house at the sink . The dock is convenient for storing the unit , and its compact size makes it easy to carry and simple to pucker forth .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Black+DeckerPivot vacuity for stairsatAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Best Lightweight
Black+Decker 20V MAX Flex Handheld Vacuum
We could n’t believe that there was a vacuity inside the tiny corner that arrived . This twist is extremely compact and lightweight , a design nonpareil for humble chore and tight spaces .
Out of the box , this vacuum did n’t necessitate any assembly and easily fit into the base for 4 hours of charging clip before utilisation . It came with a pet skirmish , crevice tool , and flip - up brushing . We found the favourite brush attachment helpful for pick dog hair off the stair pace , while a 4 - foot flexible hose and crevice tool earmark us to reach into tight corners . The suction was powerful enough to clean the step adequately , but not as strong as some of the other models we tested .
A atomic number 3 - ion battery in the charge bag offer a strong boot for an extended cleaning time of about 20 minutes . To lift away allergens , a three - level filtration system keep dust and detritus from escaping the spacious 17 - Panthera uncia detritus bowl . The bowl and filter were unsubdivided to remove and empty .
Photo: dyson.com
We would n’t recommend this model for people who desire to avoid bow down . However , the society does offer a version with a stick attachment .
Get theBlack+Decker FLEX vacuum cleaner for stairsatAmazon , The Home Depot , orCPO .
Best Cordless
Eureka RapidClean Pro Vacuum
The Eureka RapidClean Pro Vacuum is an excellent option for shopper depend for a cordless void to handle small problem at an low-cost price point . At 5.6 pounds , it is well suited to move up and down stairs . It felt lightweight and was gentle to carry , but the swivel head combine with the weight unit centered at the top of the stick made it slimly top - heavy . However , we find it helpful that the junk cup is located in the top front of the unit , so the vacuum can lay down flat to make clean stair step easy . It also discharge neatly with a one - touch waiver button .
The LED luminosity on the main cleaner head help spot dust and tomentum on hardwoods and carpeting . This cordless vacuum cleaner lifted most of the seeable hair after a few passes . The amount of suction makes this option well suitable for daily run - throughs but probably not whole - house cleaning .
The rechargeable atomic number 3 - ion battery will give up to 40 minutes of cleaning metre , and a Georgia home boy - power choice increases suction for stronger cleansing on carpeted stairs . The function quickly clicked into place before the first purpose . We screw that the stick vacuum can be well change over into a handheld , which can be used with all the include attachment : the motor head , the crevice tool , and a dust skirmish .
Photo: amazon.com
One drawback is that there is no dockage station , so the whole must be stop up in for charging . The Easy Rest nook lets the vacuum be propped up on countertop and furniture when users want to take a respite .
Get the Eureka vacuum for stairs atAmazon .
Best for Pet Hair
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Vacuum
Pet lovers are likely to rejoice about this Bissell . The additional tools are what make this hand-held perfect for cleaning steps , for those who can well bend down . The mini coppice header quickly snaps into the opening of the handheld for vacuuming step pace . It is also easy to remove with the quick - waiver button . To reach corner where pet hair likes to obliterate , we opted for the crevice attachment , which can also be accommodate with the included dusting brush to extend its range .
Unlike with many handhelds , the release pauperization n’t be held down for operation . As before long as we turned it on , we could feel the powerful suck — and we were pleased to see it beak up finer pet hair left behind by other vacuums we tested .
The 14 - volt lithium - ion barrage fire lasted the whole time we were cleanse the stairs , but not much long — an average of 17 bit . The dirt bin is simple to empty and have a filter for salutary cleaning operation and entrance hackles and best-loved fuzz . The drawbacks to this gimmick are the charge time ( 8 hours before the first usage ) and the deficiency of a charging dock .
Photo: amazon.com
Get the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser vacuity for stairs atAmazon , Target , orBissell .
Best for Carpet
Shark Rotator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
This twilled Shark is a worthy contender for shoppers who desire one emptiness to clean the stairs as well as other surfaces around the rest home . For larger space , it work well as a standard vertical . At 12.5 pound , it ’s gravid than the cordless models on this list but maneuvers well with forward-looking swivel steerage and a ego - incite motion . An light-emitting diode light ensures that users wo n’t miss a single speck of soil .
At 910 watts , this Shark boasts super - secure suction for carpet control surface , yet the spinning brush can be turned off by slue the picker to hardwood mode for a gentler cleanup . We found it super effective at lifting detritus and dog whisker off both aerofoil . In fact , we were surprised how much was in the dustbin after one pass through and did n’t regain any hair stick in the roller . The superfluous - large 12 - dry quart dust cupful allows for plenty of cleaning time before emptying . This Shark ask two hands to open up but is comparatively gentle to empty . An unified HEPA filter trap dust and allergens inside the void to facilitate cleaner indoor air travel timber .
For the stairs , a 7.5 - pound lift - away fuel pod can be detached from the joystick and contain in one hired hand while incite up and down . Just avoid setting down the detached pod while vacuuming , as it easy tips over . A drawback is that the primary brushwood roller can not be used as an attachment with the lift - away pod , but to compensate , a smaller turbine copse attachment is a great mechanize option for clean stairs . Other attachments let in a crevice tool and pet multi - tool .
Photo: amazon.com
The Shark unit was simple to foregather , reconfigure , and swap in attachment , all clicking quickly into place . The 25 - foot cord offers plenty of range , but we do wish it was retractable .
Get the Shark vacuum for stairs atAmazonorShark .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing aVacuum for Stairs
With so many options on the market , selecting the ideal vacuity for stairs in a abode can be challenge . light upon the differences between cannister and uprights , bag and bagless , corded and cordless models , as well as other factor to keep in intellect , admit size , type , suction power , and repose of use .
Size and Type
A bulky vacuum can be hard to employ when strip stairs , so it ’s advisable to go with one that ’s svelte , lightweight , and a breeze to maneuver .
Ease of Use
Seniors and those with modified mobility may bid to avoid carrying a heavy model up and down stairs . Stick and unsloped vacuum are of lighter weight and easier to use . Though handhelds are adept for getting into tight corner , bend can be unmanageable and deadening .
Cordless stick vacuum cleaner are the easiest , most comfortable choice . Those who favour an vertical should pick out one with a swivel soundbox of 180 degrees or more for less thought-provoking maneuverability in pie-eyed stair turning point .
Also look for an ergonomic handle that feels good to grasp . well-off - accession controls are significant , too ; an on / off transposition on the handgrip is ideal , with foot - controlled buttons and release levers for easy operation .
Photo: amazon.com
Bagged vs. Bagless
There are two options for getting debris out of the vacuum and into the trash : bagged or bagless .
With a bagged model , users will call for to buy replacement dish and commute them once full . Debris should be well contained in the bag , with little prospect of dust , dirt , and allergens elude into the air . bag vacuum also offer higher capacity , which is helpful for gamy - traffic infinite that tend to gather more debris , especially in homesinhabited by petsand child .
Bagless reading will save the expense of replacement bags , but the dirt that collects in the cup or bin may release allergens into the air during disposal . If this is a concern , look for a bagless model with an integratedhigh - efficiency particulate air ( HEPA ) filter . The cups / bin on bagless versions can be on the small side , which mean more frequent emptying is required , so take this into retainer when evaluating the space .
Photo: amazon.com
Cordless vs. Corded
Vacuum cord can be limiting when it comes to cleaning steps , with cordless being optimal for moving up and down . Cordless options are easy to habituate , do n’t require an outlet , and can be easily ravish to the top of the stairs . Battery big businessman on cordless models typically lasts from 15 minutes to 45 minutes , with high-priced option getting closelipped to the latter .
When opting for a cordless model , make certain it has battery power of at least 25 to 30 minutes so that cleaning task can be completed without having to stop for charging ; once the battery runs down , it will in all likelihood ask to recharge for 3 hours or more . mention that some void are trade with two battery , so that one can be used while the other is charging to gain ample cleaning time .
Those in the market for just one multiuse vacuum might find a corded model best , since its higher mental ability and greater suck index can be moreeffective for turgid carpet sphere . To keep off lugging the vacuum up and down , prefer a fashion model with a long , retractable cord . A 15 - human foot cord will in general be adequate to reach the top of steps in most homes .
Suction Power
The type of floor in the base is an of import divisor when it comes to the suction king needed . Those with mostly hardwood , tile , or other smooth surfaces and just a few orbit rug here and there wo n’t necessitate as much suck as home with enceinte area of carpet and high - pile rugs . warm suction power is what allows a vacuum to hit deep into carpet fibre to absent deep - set debris .
Somemanufacturerstout suction world power ; for brands that do n’t , view other factors . With corded vacuums , for instance , the high the tune watts ( AW ) , the stronger the power . upright piano with a 100 AW or more will be sufficient , while canisters should have at least 220 AW but more ideally over 300 AW . For cordless model , opt one ranging between 80 and 100 AW .
For a cordless machine , it ’s also authoritative to note the bombardment life and runtime , which commonly ranges from 15 to 45 second . A double barrage pack will provide the longest cleansing time . A motorized brush that rotates will increase the political machine ’s ability to amass deep - set dirt from carpet fibers .
Attachments
Attachments can help get all arena of stairs clean . A narrow , charge crack tool will assist cleaning hard - to - make corners and between rail . A motored brush fond regard can be useful on carpet stairs , efficaciously draw out debris and debris . A pet - hair skirmish is a positive if a computerized axial tomography or dog lives in the family .
For hardwood floors and uncarpeted step , fond regard such as a flat , wide tool with short bristle for wholesale will glide on smooth surface without damage them . A dust brush is handy for wanton dusting of furniture , blind , lampshades , and more , and wo n’t chafe surfaces .
FAQs
Armed with excellent shopping intel , you may now desire some steer for cleaning stairs . Get the result to these and other commonly involve questions about vacuuming stairs .
Q.How do you vacuum carpet on stairs?
When vacuuming carpeted stairs , first remove any magnanimous debris that could clog up the vacuity and dust the handrail and step spindle . Next , attach a crevice tool to make clean the corners .
Once you have finish with the blotto spaces , supervene upon the attachment with a wider brush to scavenge the surface of each step . After vacuuming the monotonic step surface , do n’t forget to prevail it over the vertical risers in an up - and - down motion .
Q.How often should you vacuum your stairs?
You should clean your stairs whenever you vacuum your whole business firm or when you notice hair or debris on the control surface .
Q.Is there a robot vacuum for stairs?
Since it can not climb steps or entree corners easily , a robot vacuumis not an ideal alternative for stairs .
Q. How often should you buy a new vacuum cleaner?
Most vacuum on the marketplace are meant to last for up to 8 age . However , consistent grievous - obligation vacuuming can diminish the life and suction of your vacuum cleansing agent .
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