Paranoid about bothering neighbors? These are the 3 quietest cordless vacuums we've tested that still banish debris – perfect for apartment living

Cordless vacuums have become an everyday essential and for good reason. Lightweight and easy to maneuver, they offer the most flexible and convenient clean, and they're much quieter when compared to their larger, corded counterparts.

If you live in an apartment or shared building, loud appliances can quickly become a source of tension. Likewise, homes with children, pets, or people working from home can benefit from a quieter machine that doesn’t disrupt everyone else’s day.

That’s where a quiet cordless vacuum comes in. Whether you’re looking for a more peaceful cleaning experience or simply want to be mindful of your neighbors, they’re a worthwhile upgrade, and these are the quietest and best cordless vacuums from the 31 we've tested.

The quietest cordless vacuums

Of the 71 best vacuum cleaners that we've tested at Homes & Gardens, the cordless sticks always come out as the quietest. We test each of them using the DecibelX app for accurate, real-time readings of the noise levels you can expect in your home.

Vacuum cleaner noise is typically measured in decibels (dB), with anything above 80dB considered loud – roughly equivalent to city traffic or a hairdryer. But many of the quietest cordless vacuums on the market operate between 60 and 70dB. To put that into context, that’s about the same as a normal conversation, meaning it’s far less likely to disturb others in your home or building.

These are the quietest cordless vacuums for spotless floors.

The benefits of a quiet cordless vacuum

Reducing noise in your environment isn’t just a courtesy – it can also be good for your mental wellbeing. Frequent exposure to loud or high-pitched sounds can contribute to sensory overload, increased stress and fatigue.

And as somebody with suspected ADHD, a cordless vacuum actually helps me clean, creating a calmer home environment.

Cordless vacuums already offer the benefit of easy, grab-and-go cleaning, and are some of the best lightweight vacuums available, but quieter models take it one step further.

They allow you to clean more regularly without worrying about disturbing housemates, nap times, or your peace of mind. Whether you live in a compact space or simply prefer a gentler soundscape, a low-decibel vacuum can make all the difference.

Quiet vacuums also make it easier to keep on top of mess as it happens, similarly to the one touch tidying rule. Rather than putting off cleaning because of the noise, you’re more likely to grab a low-noise cordless model for small, everyday tasks.

When the kids spill some crumbs or the cat has left fur on the sofa, grabbing a cordless stick or even one of the best handheld vacuums is one of the easiest ways to stay on top of it.

For households with pets, the quietest and best vacuums for pet hair are especially helpful. Loud appliances can frighten animals, and frequent exposure may cause stress or anxiety in sensitive pets. A quieter model allows you to clean around them without disturbing their comfort.

They’re also a game-changer for families. If you’re trying to clean while children are asleep, doing homework, or winding down for the evening, a quieter vacuum won’t disrupt the household rhythm.

FAQs

What is considered a quiet vacuum cleaner?

A vacuum cleaner is generally considered quiet if it operates at around 60–70 decibels. For comparison, normal conversation is about 60dB, while the best upright vacuums can reach 75–80dB or more.

Are cordless vacuums quieter than corded ones?

When comparing cordless vs corded vacuums, cordless vacuums often have smaller motors, which can make them quieter overall, especially in eco or low-power modes.

Noise levels can still vary between models, so it’s worth checking the specifications.

Does lower noise mean less suction power?

Not necessarily. Many of the quietest cordless vacuums are engineered to reduce noise without compromising on suction. Look for models with high-efficiency motors and multiple power settings to strike the right balance. Dyson's latest models, like the Dyson V15 Detect, do this exceptionally well, as do many of the best Dyson alternatives.

Can I vacuum at night without disturbing neighbors?

A quiet vacuum with a noise level under 70 dB is much less likely to disturb neighbors, especially in well-insulated buildings. However, consider using lower power settings and soft brush heads to further minimize disruption.

Do quiet vacuums last as long as standard models?

Yes – build quality and battery life are better indicators of longevity than noise level. As long as you choose a reputable brand and care for the machine properly, such as by regularly cleaning the vacuum filter, a quiet vacuum should be just as durable.

Next, see our tried-and-tested picks of the best vacuums for carpet or the best vacuums for hardwood floors for specialized cleaning.