For a brand with such a strong reputation for market-leading products, the R10 Pro feels like a chink in Dreame's armor.

When it comes to design, maneuverability, and dust, it's a capable machine with glimpses of greatness as one of the best vacuums. It's one of the lightest and easiest-to-use stick vacuums I've tested, effortlessly gliding across floors. And for such an affordable device, smart features, such as LED lights and a handy lock button that keeps the vacuum running without you having to press the trigger, elevate it closer to more expensive models.

However, when it comes to providing a thorough deep clean, I was disappointed with this cordless vacuum's battery life and ability to tackle large messes. To find out if the Dreame R10 Pro could be the right vacuum model for your home, read on to explore my in-depth review.

My One Minute Verdict

Dreame products so often punch above their weight in terms of price and value, but with the R10 Pro you sadly get what you pay for.

If you have a smaller home or are looking for one of the best vacuums for pet hair that's light and easy to manage day to day, it's not a bad price to pay. Even on the super-quiet, less-powerful Eco mode, it clears fine debris in a single pass, and its Turbo mode is great for getting pet hair out of carpet fibers.

Beyond those everyday tasks, however, its limitations become difficult to ignore. Although Dreame claims up to 65 minutes of runtime, I managed just 25 minutes during mixed-mode testing, and even the brief use of Turbo mode drains the battery quickly. Large debris pickup is inconsistent, often requiring multiple passes and further extending cleaning time.

The vacuum won't stand securely without its wall mount, the modest 0.6L dust cup fills quickly, and debris repeatedly became trapped between the tube and dust cup, occasionally blocking suction. During one test, the dust cup even released unexpectedly, emptying its contents back onto the floor.

For those looking for a cordless vacuum for a larger home and to be able to tackle big cleans, I would recommend exploring options like the Dreame R20, which pairs a 90-minute runtime with a touchscreen display that takes the guesswork out of battery and suction mode, or the Shark Stratos cordless, which handles mixed debris smarter and more consistently.

Dreame R10 Pro: Specifications

Dreame R10 Pro: Design and Features

The Dreame R10 Pro doesn't veer too far from what you'd expect from a standard cordless stick vacuum. Its main unit sits on the top of a metal tube that connects to one of the vacuum's floorheads and attachments, and a transparent dust cup runs down the body of the handheld unit, so you can see how full it is.

You power the vacuum on and off using the trigger button on the underside of the main unit, and switch between the Eco, Med and Turbo modes using a slider switch on the top. A lock button keeps the vacuum running continuously without having to press the trigger, which makes a real difference during longer cleaning sessions, and there's a small LED dot alongside this button that lets you see how much battery life you have at a glance. It's lacking a more detailed display, but at this price point, that's not a surprise.

What was a pleasant surprise, however, was how much the R10 Pro's matte black design with gold accents elevates it well above its price, making it look more expensive than it is. At 3.64 lbs (1.65 kg) for the main unit, it's also on the lighter side for a cordless vacuum without sacrificing too much power.

Rather than a single multi-surface head, the R10 Pro comes with two interchangeable floorheads. The multi-surface brush uses V-shaped bristles and a comb design to grab hair and direct it up the tube rather than letting it tangle around the roller. The soft roller floorhead is added as a dedicated hard floor option, with a roller that picks up fine dust without scattering it across the room. Both floorheads have built-in LED lights at the front to help you see dust and debris, especially under furniture and in darker corners.

Beyond the floorheads, the kit includes a motorized mini-brush for upholstery and furnishings, a wide combination tool that acts as both a dusting brush and a crevice tool, a bendable crevice nozzle for tight and hard-to-reach spaces, and a short extension tube – all of which click on and off at the center of the tube with a button press.

Filtration is then managed by a five-layer washable filter system that Dreame claims captures 99.9% of particles down to 0.3 microns. It's not officially certified as HEPA-grade, but it comes close.

Inside the box is a wall-mounted bracket that stores the vacuum in an upright position. This is a necessity because the vacuum can't free-stand on its own; the floorhead doesn't lock into position and has a tendency to roll away or fall over. You'll also need to install this bracket near a plug as the charging cable doesn't stretch very far. Once plugged in, it takes around 3.5 hours to charge, but you only get up to 65 minutes of battery life on Eco mode (and less than 15 minutes on Turbo).

What Is the Dreame R10 Pro Like to Use?

The R10 Pro is easy to pick up and get going – there's no complicated setup and swapping between attachments is quick enough. The lack of dedicated storage for these attachments is disappointing but expected at this price.

In general cleaning terms, the R10 Pro handled day-to-day messes well, picking up pet hair from hard floors and low-pile carpet without fuss. The soft roller floorhead is quiet and smooth on hard floors, with no sense that it's going to scratch or drag across anything delicate, and it handles everyday debris – crumbs, dust, the odd bit of dried mud – without much effort.

On carpet, the vacuum works harder, and you feel a bit more resistance in the push, but it picks up well, and the suction is good. The anti-tangle design of the multi-surface floorhead largely holds up in everyday use too.

I liked having the option of the two floorheads, but storing the spare is a pain, and I almost exclusively ended up using the multi-surface head because it did the job well enough to not have to switch.

In use, the vacuum is light enough to carry upstairs or use for long periods. It can feel a little unbalanced when you're pushing it round the home because it's quite top-heavy, but this isn't a dealbreaker, and you soon get used to it.

The lock button is also a benefit for long cleans. Taking away the need to keep your finger on the trigger makes it maneuverable enough to get into corners and along baseboards without constantly repositioning yourself, plus the low-profile floorhead gets under most furniture without having to tilt the vacuum at an awkward angle.

What's not a benefit for long cleans is the poor battery life. For a vacuum this affordable, I didn't expect industry-leading runtimes, but I do think being able to do a full pass of my house in one run shouldn't be too much to ask. Dreame claims Eco mode lasts 65 minutes, and that holds true; however, in reality, Eco mode isn't strong enough to make a dent in pet hair or deeply clean. This means you have to ramp the vacuum up to Turbo periodically, and in my tests, I got (at most) 25 minutes switching between the two. For most everyday tasks and quick cleans, this will be ample, but for anything deeper or longer, you'll need to revert to a wired vacuum alternative or wait for the R10 Pro to charge.

The LED lights in the floorheads turned out to be more useful than I thought. They pick out dust along baseboards and under the sofa that I would have otherwise missed, and I found myself cleaning more thoroughly because of them – going over areas I would have assumed were fine and finding they weren't.

On noise, the R10 Pro is quiet enough on Eco, at 62dB, for someone to work comfortably in the next room. Turbo steps up the noise to 71dB on average, but the pitch is low, which makes it more gentle on the ears than I'd expected.

Compared to other cordless sticks I've tested at this price, the R10 Pro is impressive on pet hair in Turbo mode; the quality of the LED lighting stands out.

Where it falls is the lack of a freestanding dock, disappointing runtime, and mixed results between Eco and Turbo modes. Also, during one clean, the dust cup just opened by itself, pouring 10 minutes of dust and dirt back onto my floor.

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

To test how the R10 Pro handles fine debris, I scattered half a cup of flour and sugar in roughly a 50/50 split across carpet, hardwood, and laminate, spreading it over a wide enough area to clearly see the vacuum's path with each pass.

Flour and sugar work well because they mimic the kind of fine debris that builds up on floors between cleans and is often harder to shift than larger pieces.

On carpet, the R10 Pro performed well, pulling the flour and sugar out of the pile without spreading it around. Most of the debris was gone in a single pass, with only a very light dusting of flour remaining in the deeper parts of the pile on the first run. A second pass cleared it completely.

Flour did tend to gather at the edges of the brushroll, but this can be easily cleared away, and it doesn't transfer back onto the floor as you move the vacuum around.

On hardwood, the flour, at times, had a tendency to get pushed slightly ahead of the floorhead on the first pass, but it was quickly cleared on a second pass.

The sugar cleared more cleanly, but getting into the cracks between floorboards took an extra pass with the floorhead angled slightly, and some flour settled into the joins and needed the crevice nozzle to finish the job properly.

On laminate, the results were similar to hardwood, though the smoother surface meant slightly less scattering on contact and the flour cleared more easily across open areas. The edges of the room and the join between the floor and baseboard needed a second pass, but the overall result was clean without needing to change suction mode or switch attachments for the bulk of the test.

Test 2: Pantry

For the pantry test, I scattered half a cup of cereal and red lentils across carpet, hardwood, and laminate. Cereal and lentils represent the kind of debris that ends up on floors every day. For the cereal, we use off-brand Cheerios – which stand in for larger pieces of debris like crumbs and dry food, while the lentils are smaller and have a slightly tacky texture.

On carpet, the R10 Pro picked up the lentils confidently and without flinging pieces around, clearing most of it in a single pass. The cereal took a lot more work. The floorhead largely pushed them or sent them flying around rather than sucking them up. I had to physically lift the floorhead and make multiple passes over each one to remove them, or I had to resort to an attachment.

On hardwood, there was some scattering of the lentils on the first pass, but a second pass over the same area dealt with them, and on laminate, performance was similar to hardwood. The lentils again needed two passes in places, and there was a little scattering on contact, but nothing that required lifting and dropping the vacuum to dislodge pieces or any heavy-handed maneuvering.

The cereal performance proved even worse on hard floors. I was left with just piles of cereal in corners or along the edges, and those that did get sucked in ended up clogging the unit. I had to use water to soften the blockage and then clear it with the end of a spoon, which is less than ideal.

Test 3: Pet Hair

To test the R10 Pro on pet (and human) hair, I ran it across both carpet and hard floors after a typical day with my dog Maisie, without pre-cleaning either surface first.

On hard floors, the R10 Pro handled Maisie's hair well, pulling it in cleanly without spreading it around or leaving trails at the edges of the floorhead. The comb teeth design came into its own here – hair moved through the roller and into the dust cup without bunching. After a full pass, there was little left behind, and what remained was easy enough to catch on a second run. On carpet, the vacuum lifted most of the surface hair well, but the deeper the pile, the more effort was needed.

I did notice on one of Maisie's heavy shedding days, which are common when the weather is hot, that some of her hairs caught at the edges of the roller and had to be removed by hand, so you'll want to check it periodically rather than assuming it's clear.

My hair told a similar story. Longer strands cleared well on hard floors and low-pile carpet, though on thicker carpet strands occasionally needed a second pass to come up fully. The dust cup filled noticeably faster on heavy hair days, which is worth bearing in mind if you have multiple pets or a large home – the 0.6L capacity is on the smaller side, and you may find yourself emptying it mid-clean.

Test 4: Attachments

Swapping between attachments is easy on the R10 Pro. The button release at the collar joint is easy to find and operate with one hand, and nothing feels flimsy or loose once clicked into place.

The motorized mini-brush got the most use outside of the main floorheads. On the sofa, it lifted Maisie's hair from the fabric better than the main floorhead, and on cushions and upholstered chairs it did a thorough job without being rough on the material. The wide combination tool – which flips between a dusting brush and a crevice mode – is versatile enough for lots of different tasks and I used it regularly on baseboards, shelves and around the edges of radiators. It isn't as precise as a dedicated crevice tool, but it covers a lot of ground without needing to swap again.

For the crevice attachment, I sprinkled flour and sugar along the base of a wall, pressing some of it into the join between the floor and the skirting board. The nozzle cleared both the flour and the sugar cleanly in a single pass without spreading the debris outward.

The extension tube adds useful reach for high shelves and ceiling corners but feels unnecessary. The existing tube length covers most situations without it. Of all the attachments, it was the one I put back in the box most quickly and didn't miss.

Dreame R10 Pro Name: Setup and Maintenance

The R10 Pro arrives in a large, fairly hefty box, but unboxing it is straightforward.

The packaging is mostly cardboard with some paper wrapping around the individual components, and little unnecessary plastic. Everything is organized into separate cardboard compartments inside, so nothing is loose or rattling around, and the user manual sits on top so it's the first thing you see when you open it.

The box contains:

• Main handheld unit
• Metal wand
• Multi-surface floorhead
• Soft roller floorhead
• Motorized mini-brush
• Wide combination tool
• Bendable crevice nozzle
• Extension tube
• Wall-mounted storage bracket
• Charging cable and adapter
• User manual

That's a generous kit for this price.

Before you can use the R10 Pro, you'll need to charge it fully, but to do so you'll likely have to install the wall bracket first. This isn't 100% necessary, but the vacuum won't stand by itself, and you'll have to do it eventually anyway. Slotting it into the wall bracket and plugging in the cable takes seconds, and from flat it took around 3 hours to reach full charge – roughly in line with the 3.5 hours quoted by Dreame. There's no assembly required beyond attaching your chosen floorhead, which clicks into place with a single push.

Day-to-day vacuum maintenance is simple too (as long as you don't vacuum up lots of large debris that can block the unit). The dust cup empties with a single button press and the bin itself is easy to rinse out when needed. I didn't think having such an easy release system would impress me so much, but seeing as I always struggle with the systems on Dyson vacuums, this mattered more than I thought. The filter is removable and fully washable – Dreame recommends cleaning it every month or so depending on use – and it's a simple process of rinsing it under cold water, leaving it to dry for 24 hours, and clicking it back in.

The brushroll on the multi-surface floorhead can be removed for cleaning too, and the soft roller floorhead pulls apart easily enough to clear any debris that's worked its way inside. None of it requires tools or any particular effort, and keeping on top of it takes only a few minutes.

How Does the Dreame R10 Compare?

The R10 Pro sits in the middle of Dreame's R-series lineup, above the Dreame R10 and the Dreame R20. If you mainly clean hard floors and don't need the soft roller, the R10 undercuts the Pro on price and covers the basics, but given that the battery life complaints that dog the R10 Pro apply here too, and you lose the soft roller in the bargain, the Pro is the better buy if the price gap is small.

Dreame R20 is $50 / £50 more, but for that extra money you get 190 AW of suction, intelligent dirt detection that automatically adjusts power based on the floor type and debris, a touch screen display, and 90 minutes of runtime.

Against the competition, the Shark Stratos cordless ($499.99 / £399.99) is a significant step up in price but brings Clean Sense IQ technology that senses dirt and adjusts suction automatically, more reliable large debris pickup, and a MultiFLEX wand that folds flat for freestanding storage. It also often sells for much less than its RRP, and if you can get it on sale, it's a much stronger investment. At the other end, the Bissell CleanView XR Pet ($119.99 / £99.99) is cheaper than the R10 Pro and covers the essentials for pet owners and smaller homes, even if it lacks the LED lighting and the soft roller floorhead.

How We Test Vacuums

At Homes & Gardens, we take a detailed and standardized approach to how we test vacuums.

This includes vacuuming set amounts of fine and large debris on carpet, linoleum and hardwood floors to check cleaning performance across different types and surfaces. We test the anti-tangle performance and pet hair pickup as well as using each vacuum around the home to check weight, maneuverability, battery life, dustbin emptying, noise levels, and anything else you might need to consider before buying. Every factor is then weighed against the price when we give it our final mark.

I tested the Dreame R10 Pro for four weeks in my home, where I have two children and a dog. I ran it across carpet, laminate and hardwood floors, tested its noise levels using the DecibelX app and checked how easy it was to use and how well it fit into my life.

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Small, compact cleaning gadgets are having a real moment right now, especially as more of us look for easier ways to stay on top of everyday mess without constantly hauling out a full-sized vacuum or heavier cleaning equipment. The latest ALDI Find taps neatly into that shift – and it lands just in time for the busy summer season.

Launching in stores on 1 July, the Ambiano Portable Vacuum Cleaner comes in a choice of black or white, offering a sleek, minimalist finish that feels more like a modern home accessory than a bulky utility appliance. Its compact, lightweight design is exactly what makes it so appealing – it is small enough to sit neatly alongside other vacuum cleaners without taking up the same level of space, while also offering a quick alternative to dragging out a cordless vacuum for smaller everyday messes.

It is easy to leave on a countertop, tuck on a shelf, or store in a kitchen cabinet without taking over valuable space. I currently own the Shark WANDVAC Cordless Hand Vac from Amazon, and I wouldn't be without a cordless vacuum. It is a godsend for small spills, messes and sucking up my cats fur, which just seems to get everywhere.

Given ALDI’s reputation for new launches selling out quickly, we expect this one to fly off shelves once it arrives in stores.

A Compact Design That Fits Real Life

There is no setup, no fuss, and no reason to delay tackling a mess. It is the kind of tool you can grab in seconds – whether it is crumbs after breakfast, flour spilled while baking, or bits of soil tracked in from the garden.

The small size is a genuine advantage in busy homes, particularly in kitchens and open-plan spaces where mess tends to happen in real time. Instead of waiting for a 'proper clean,' it encourages quick, immediate tidy-ups that keep things feeling under control throughout the day.

It is especially useful for those in-between moments when you would not bother pulling out a full-sized vacuum or cordless vacuum, but still want surfaces looking presentable in seconds.

Why Choose a Handheld Vacuum?

I have to admit, I have always been a fan of a handheld vacuum for exactly this reason. There is something incredibly satisfying about spot-cleaning as you go – whether it is clearing crumbs from the dining table after lunch, tidying around the hob while cooking, or doing a quick pass over the sofa before guests arrive.

It takes the pressure off those small messes that would not usually justify pulling out a full-sized vacuum or cordless vacuum, removing that mental load of ‘I will deal with it later’ because it takes seconds rather than becoming a full cleaning task. In a busy household, that small shift makes a noticeable difference to how calm and put-together a space feels throughout the day.

A Surprisingly Useful Tool For Floorcare

In terms of floor care, the Ambiano Portable Vacuum works best as a supporting tool rather than a replacement for your main vacuum. It is particularly useful for hard flooring such as laminate, vinyl, tile, and engineered wood, where small debris like crumbs, dust, and grit can gather quickly. It really shines in those awkward in-between areas – along baseboards, in corners, and around dining chairs – where larger vacuums are less convenient to manoeuvre. It is also ideal for entryways, where dirt and debris are regularly tracked in and can easily spread further through the home if left. Used alongside a regular vacuuming routine, it helps maintain a consistently cleaner floor with minimal effort.

Tackle Pet Hair, Spills, And Everyday Mess

While you may still need a vacuum for pet hair with stronger suction for deeper cleans, this compact option is ideal for everyday spot cleaning and quick touch-ups. For pet owners, it is especially handy for lifting loose fur from sofas, cushions, stairs, and pet beds before it has a chance to build up or spread through the home.

Rather than waiting for a full cleaning session, it allows you to tackle shedding as it happens – keeping surfaces looking tidier with minimal effort. It is just as useful for everyday messes, from dried crumbs in the kitchen and cereal under the dining table to dust and debris that quickly reappear in high-traffic areas like entryways and living rooms.

Shop Alternative Handheld Vacuums

The Ambiano Portable Vacuum is an affordable handheld cleaning tool that fits easily into everyday routines and stores almost anywhere, making it more likely to be used regularly rather than left out of reach. With strong demand expected, this ALDI Find is likely to sell out quickly once it hits stores.

In cases where a second vacuum cleaner is required for more robust cleaning (que tidying up after some DIY or sweeping up patio debris), a wet and dry vacuum cleaner will give you the versatility you're after since, after all, you should already have one of the best vacuums to use day to day.

I've tested the Karcher WD5 P Wet & Dry Vacuum to see if it can fulfil its mission of providing a 'powerful, convenient cleaning performance'. For one week, every other day, I have challenged it with: removing debris from the patio, blowing leaves out from underneath a table on the patio (using the blower function), lifting cereal and flour from hard flooring, and even removing water from the kids' sandpit.

The WD5 P has a 1100-watt motor to deliver superior air flow, and a 6.6-gallon container capacity for wet or dry debris. It'll remove the debris that you do not want your household vacuum to tackle, and I've found that it's a good appliance to have before pressure washing the patio (for example).

My One Minute Verdict

Easy to set up and simple to use with brilliant results, the Karcher WD5 P wet & dry vacuum cleaner is certainly one of the better wet & dry vacuums that I have used in a long time.

The 1100-watt motor delivers powerful suction to clear fine dust and heavy debris, and the built-in blower will quickly move dirt and debris from hard-to-reach places. It is a top-mounted design, which means that it is suitable for dry and wet debris, indoors and outdoors, but you'll need to swap out the fleece filter bag for any liquid pick-up.

It's one of six wet and dry vacuum cleaners by Karcher, with the WD5 P positioned toward the higher end. For example, it'll dent the wallet by $249, whereas the Karcher WD4 is $199, and the WD3 is $99.99. It is, however, robust. I've also tested the Karcher WD4, and I found that it is overall more powerful (despite having the same 1100-watt motor), more robust, and much easier to move around.

Throughout testing, though, the 26ft/5m power cable came up short. The 11.5ft suction hose is also gangly. And the 84dB noise level causes a stir.

A wet and dry vacuum cleaner that more closely resembles a cordless vacuum, such as the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua Wet-to-Dry Vacuum, may be the better option if this noise and practicalities are likely to bother you. Alternatively, the Shark Messmaster Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum is compact enough to take outside to the car and leave it there to clear up after any little accidents, like spilled coffee or chip crumbs.

Karcher WD5 P Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner: Specifications

Karcher WD5 P Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner: Design and Features

The Karcher WD5 P Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner is designed to be used on dirt created by home projects outside of the home, which your standard vacuum simply can not handle.

It has a large 6.6-gallon (25L) container, which is suitable for holding wet and dry debris. The top-mounted filter allows for quick and easy removal from the filter box – without coming into contact with dirt. This means that there is no need to remove the filter as you switch between wet and dry cleaning, but you will need to remove the fleece bag to remove any wet stuff.

The top-mount can be released to access the fleece bag by folding down the handle and lifting to remove.

The WD5 P is packed with a 1100-watt motor, which can either clean up or blow away debris. To alternate between the two functions, attach the 11.5 ft. (3.5m) suction hose to either one of the outlets. You do only have the one power setting to use either function, but I found this ample enough for lifting dry or wet debris – and blowing it too.

It has a 26ft power cable and, unless you have a power outlet outside, you may benefit from an extension cord like this 10ft Amazon Basics cord ($6.99, Amazon). And while the 11.5ft suction hose with bent handle provides some extra length during cleaning, it can make it a difficult appliance to store because it doesn't like being wrapped around the container, and it increases the height required in the shed to house it.

At the base of the container are five wheels that help to maneuver the WD5 P. These are installed as part of the setup. You can either wheel it around by the fixed handle or lift it with this handle when taking it to another space to clean.

What Is the Karcher WD5 P Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner Like to Use?

The Karcher WD5 P wet and dry vacuum cleaner is a large appliance that'll need to be stored in the utility room or, better yet, in an outbuilding. It measures 25.7(H) x 15(W) x 16.5(L)in and weighs 19.2lbs, and when it's in use, it will get dirty.

It's designed to be used with either the floorhead or crevice tool attached to the suction tubes while removing debris off the floor, or while using the blower function. I found it easy to switch between the two different functions – blower and suction – by removing the suction tubes and tools, and turning the appliance with the one-speed dial.

The WD5 P is noticeably louder than a standard vacuum cleaner and is more in line with a pressure washer. I recorded a noise level reading of 84dB using the decibel meter reader app on my smartphone. This noise level is the same as that of the Karcher WD4, and it's equivalent to that of a passing vehicle.

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

In instances when you'll be wanting to clean up dust and dead skin, I wanted to see if the Karcher WD5 P could handle it by sprinkling half a cup of flour and half a cup of sugar on our tiled floor in the utility room. The flour is also an excellent visual test, as we can spot when it's left on the floor or stuck in any of the vacuum's parts.

With the floorhead attached to the suction hose and powered by the 1100-watt motor, the WD5 P effortlessly cleared a pathway through the flour and sugar in one clear pass. All the debris made it into the fleece bag; no clouds of 'dust' escaped before, during, and after the removal, either.

Test 2: Pantry

For my next test, I spilled cereal and rice on the tiled floor in our utility room. This was to replicate a scenario where the WD5 P could face larger debris, indoors and outdoors, such as small stones, sawdust, and wood chippings.

The floorhead made a clear pathway through the rice with no grains getting stuck or blown off course. However, the cereal got pushed along by the floorhead unless I lifted and dropped the floorhead on it so that it could be vacuumed. No cereal became stuck or lodged in the hose.

Test 3: Water

As a wet and dry vacuum, I wanted to demonstrate how the WD5 P removed liquid. To do this, I used it in the yard and challenged it with the removal of rainwater from my kids' sandpit after a deluge of rain over the past few days. I figured that it would be a big help to remove and contain the rainwater prior to emptying, rather than to flood the patio and make it wet for play.

When removing liquids, you'll need to remove the bag by lifting off the top of the canister. This will prevent the fleece bag from getting weighed down by liquid and avoid frequent replacement in case the fleece starts to degrade.

For the purpose of the test, I also removed the floorhead to get a clear visual, although it is suitable for use on liquids when the bristles are raised by flipping the switch on the floorhead.

All the liquid was quickly removed from the sandpit and deposited in the container. When I turned off the appliance, water ran back down the suction tubes that were being held in by the strong suction. This is something to be aware of, especially if you're removing floodwater or spilt liquids from washing machine leaks or gas can drops.

Test 4: Attachments

The Karcher WD5 P only comes with one attachment other than the floorhead, and that is the crevice tool. This tool is suitable for targeting the suction and blower delivered by the 1100-watt motor air flow. However, over time, I wouldn't expect this attachment to get much use because you can just use the handle to the same effect.

Throughout the week-long tests, I also used the Karcher WD5 P to clear up the patio in the yard. It was littered with sand from the kids' sandpit, leaves from fall, moss from the roof, and rotting vegetation.

I stretched the 5m-long cable and reached as far round as I could before pulling the plug out of the outlet, and my toddler son wanted to take over.

The WD5 P did a great job at removing everything within its path, with all debris contained in the container. However, some debris did become lodged in the floorhead and suction hose, which limited the suction power. I noticed a shift in gears when this occurred, so I switched off the power to dislodge the tissue and twigs.

Karcher WD5 Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner: Setup and Maintenance

The Karcher WD5 P wet and dry vacuum cleaner is a large appliance, so it arrives in a large delivery box. This big, branded yellow box doesn't have any handles, which makes it difficult to move into a space to set up, so I recommend having an extra pair of hands to help out.

A combination of cardboard and plastic packaging secures the parts inside the box. Inside the box are all the parts required to start using the WD5 P from the get-go. This includes: an 11.5 ft. (3.5m) suction hose, (2x) 1.8 ft. (0.5m) suction tubes, hand nozzle, crevice nozzle, a switchable wet/dry floor nozzle, automotive-style pleated filter, and a fleece filter bag. If you're buying the WD5 P in the States, you'll also receive a power tool adapter for attaching to an industrial DN 35 suction hose.

It also comes with the addition of a clip-on storage belt for securing the crevice nozzle and floor nozzle, which, although it isn't classed as an 'accessory' per se, it is a part that doesn't come with the Karcher WD4.

Upon opening, you'll find that the suction hose and five castor wheels are located inside the 6.6-gallon container. It also comes with instructions to "help" with setup, but, as with all Karcher instructions, I found these difficult to interpret and follow because there are no words to support the minuscule diagrams.

Fortunately, I could figure out what goes where using no fewer than some essential DIY skills, such as clipping and slotting together, and some thought.

To set it up, I clipped on the storage belt; attached the suction hose to the container; connected the suction tubes to the hose and hand nozzle; installed the fleece filter bag and popped on the five castor wheels. The pleated filter was already in place. This took no longer than five minutes.

All these parts will need some level of maintenance.

The fleece filter bags will need replacing when they get full, or if they get too damp from removing wet debris. How often you replace it will depend on the type of dry debris that you're removing. Replacement bags can be bought from Amazon for $16.19 (pack of 4), which can be attached by simply opening the bag and placing it inside the vacuum.

The filter bags will need to be removed when vacuuming wet debris or liquids. When this type of debris is being removed, the container will need to be wheeled over to a drain for emptying, which is OK in itself, but the container is large, so it's a bit cumbersome to lift or tip. The liquid will also be filthy dirty, and you won't want that being taken into your home.

In use, I found that the switchable wet/dry floor nozzle and suction tubes became lodged with larger debris, which stopped me in my tracks. I removed the blockage by unclipping the floor nozzle or suction tube (depending on the blockage location).

Over time, a cleaning tip that I would recommend is to wipe each part of the WD4 to keep it in a good working order. The top-mounted filter may also begin to perish and become damaged, so you'll need to replace it with a new one ($22.99, Karcher.com).

How Does the Karcher WD5 P Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner Compare?

The Karcher WD5 P is one of eight wet and dry vacuum cleaners from the German brand, which is available in the United States and the UK. As with half of the category, it's mains powered, whereas the other four wet and dry vacuum cleaners by the brand are battery-powered.

It's priced at $249.99 and is available to buy directly from Karcher or resellers such as Amazon (where you might find it a little cheaper). It is one of the more expensive wet and dry vacuums from the brand, with the more expensive tagged at $349.99 (Karcher WD6 PS) and the more affordable at $99.99 (Karcher WD3).

I've also reviewed the Karcher WD4 wet and dry vacuum cleaner and, after comparing the two, note that the WD5 P is generally more robust with sturdier onboard storage; one button to remove the top mount (rather than two clips at the side) and a stronger, fold-down handle. While it has the same 1100W motor as the WD4, it has a greater suction power (260 watts) and can pack away more debris into its 6.6-gallon container.

The wet and dry vacuum cleaners with a plug do fall short on what it can reach to clean because of the length of the power cable – it's just 5m in length, which can be restrictive when working on different jobs around the home. Karcher also has battery-powered wet and dry vacuums, like the WD2-18 Cordless Wet and Dry Vacuum, which is powered by an 18V / 2.5 Ah Karcher battery and has the largest container capacity (3.17 gallons) in the battery-powered category.

Alternatively, I appreciate that not everyone would be looking to have a wet and dry vacuum quiet as big as these Karchers (including the battery-powered), so, if you're after a second vacuum of this nature that is perhaps even more portable, then I'd be looking at the Shark Messmaster Portable Wet/Dry Vacuum.

This option retails for around $100, and our reviewer, Camryn Rabideau, found that it’s a powerful and versatile cleaning tool that can be used all around your home. On test, Camryn found that it had no problem sucking up spider webs, debris under car seats, and even spilled milk, and unlike a full-size shop vac, this model is quick and easy to clean. Plus, it’s compact enough to tuck into a closet when it’s not in use, so it’s ideal for anyone who has limited storage space in their home.

A wet and dry vacuum that more closely resembles a cordless vacuum is the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua Wet-to-Dry Vacuum. As a stick vacuum, it is a lot lighter to use, and it'll do a great job of removing pet hair from hard flooring and carpets. Our reviewer, Victoria Woollaston, found that 'it's an impressive multitasker that delivers on its core promise of being a full-power cordless vacuum and floor washer in one.' The Z30 also has a self-cleaning station. However, it is almost double the price of the Karcher wet and dry vacuums, which isn't a drawback, just something to think about.

How We Test Vacuums

At Homes & Gardens, we have a dedicated and thorough procedure for how we test vacuums so we can get a like-for-like comparison between models, and to make sure we're recreating real-life circumstances.

I tested the Karcher WD5 P Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner as and when it was required over a two-week period. It was used on hard flooring (laminate and tiles), liquids and solids, indoors and outdoors. In addition to running all three standardized tests – flour and sugar; rice and cereal – I used it to clean the moss-heavy patio, and to remove water from the kids' sandpit. This included removing leaves, small stones, and moss fallen from the roof. I then recorded how noisy it was using the DecibelX app.

This gave me the complete picture of how this wet dry vacuum would perform in real conditions, rather than a single test session, including the practicalities of cleaning and storage, and its overall condition after the two weeks of testing.

If you're sold on getting the Karcher WD5 P Wet & Dry Vacuum Cleaner, then it would be wise to know about the things that you can clean with a wet-dry vacuum. However, if you only need a vacuum cleaner for removing dry debris, then check out these vacuum cleaners for pet hair, which are equally as good; just a different spec.

After a month of use, the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua is the closest thing I've tested to a vacuum that can (nearly) do it all. It clears debris well, mops properly, and the self-cleaning station means you rarely, if ever, have to touch a dirty brush head.

The anti-tangle brush roller came through a month of cleaning up after a shedding Labrador without needing a single manual hair removal. The LED lighting on the dry head consistently revealed dust I would have missed, and the wet cleaning head dealt with the kind of sticky, dried-on kitchen mess that most other wet-to-dry vacuums struggle with.

With the Z30, you're getting what is effectively two of the best vacuums and floor care appliances in one. Buying a comparable cordless stick vacuum and a decent floor washer separately would cost much more. Plus, for homes with a mix of floors and carpet – especially with pets – it's a hard combination to beat at this price.

My One-Minute Verdict

Dreame has spent the last couple of years making vacuums that look and perform a lot like Dyson's, usually for a lot less money. The Z30 Pro Aqua is something a tad more ambitious – a premium, full-power cordless stick vacuum that also mops the floor and has a self-cleaning base.

If wet cleaning isn't something you need and your home is mostly hard floors, the $649.99 / £399.99 Dreame H15 Pro offers better wet cleaning coverage for less money as a dedicated floor washer.

For homes that are mostly carpet and don't need wet cleaning, the $849.99 / £649.99 Dyson V15 Detect remains the best dry cordless I've tested.

Or if you want the Z30 Pro Aqua's suction without the wet cleaning, the standard Dreame Z30 is $599.99 / £299.99 and does an excellent job for considerably less.

Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua Specifications

Design and Features

Inside the box are two dedicated floor heads – the TangleCut multi-surface brush for dry cleaning, and the AquaCycle 2.0 wet cleaning brush – along with the self-cleaning charging station, a bendable extension rod, a crevice nozzle, a wide fluff tool, and a soft dusting brush.

Each of the attachments has dedicated storage ports on the base and clicks and locks into place.

Inside the dry floor head is a motorized brush roller fitted with a pair of internal cutting blades that slice through hair as it wraps around the roller. This is a more effective, albeit slightly aggressive, approach to the hair problem than the plastic combs on most anti-tangle brush rollers that just catch the hair, but don't cut it.

Once cut, the smaller strands can then more easily be sucked into the dustbin, and this leaves the brush roller much cleaner for longer than other vacuums I've tested. This is a real benefit if you live with pets or anyone with long hair.

Elsewhere on the dry floor head, a row of LEDs set at 140 degrees light up the floor ahead, making fine dust, pet dander, and crumbs more visible, especially on hardwood and stone floors where debris can easily be missed.

The second floor head is the wet cleaning brush, and this is where the Z30 Pro Aqua earns its name. Rather than a simple damp pad that smears water around, this runs a four-stage process:

• Water is sprayed onto the floor through eight nozzles
• The spinning roller scrubs the surface
• A wiper blade scrapes dirty water away
• Suction pulls the residue into a dirty-water tank

The two tanks – 13.5 fl oz (400ml) of clean water and 10.8 fl oz (320ml) for dirty – are kept separate throughout.

The extension rod is another feather in the cap for the Z30 Pro Aqua. Press a release button, and it bends up to 90 degrees, letting you angle the floor head almost parallel to the floor to get under low sofas and beds.

Combined with the wet brush's 180° lie-flat swivel, you can reach spaces that would typically be off-limits to a regular vacuum. It sounds like a minor detail, but in practice, particularly in homes with low-slung furniture, it's the kind of thing you'll appreciate every time you clean.

Where Dyson typically leans into bold colors and visible cyclone hardware, Dreame has gone for a more muted design with the Z30 Pro Aqua. The base, its three attachments, and both wet and dry floor heads are made of black plastic. The extension stick comes in the Dreame-branded gold and there are smaller, gold accents across the main body of the floor heads, too. The brush rollers themselves then have geometric purple, yellow, and black patterns.

Overall, this aesthetic makes the Z30 Pro Aqua look more premium than it is and means it will blend in with most home styles. The build quality is similarly solid and premium, and at 45in (115cm) tall, it's a standard size. Even if this does mean you need to store it somewhere with enough height for the stick, and enough floor space for the base.

Speaking of the base, this is the main feature that separates the Z30 Pro Aqua from conventional cordless vacuums. In addition to being a charging station, when you park the vacuum on the base after a wet-cleaning session, it automatically flushes the roller with fresh water. It then blows 70°C hot air through it for 30 minutes.

Power on the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua is managed across three modes: Eco, Auto, and Turbo. All of which are shown on the handle's built-in LCD. The LCD also shows battery percentage and a real-time readout of particulate matter type and quantity.

Turbo mode delivers maximum suction, and Eco extends runtime but is better suited to light maintenance cleans than deep cleaning. In Auto mode, sensors detect how much dust and debris is being picked up to continuously adjust suction power to match. For instance, it will increase power on a thick rug or a concentrated patch of dirt and then pull back on a bare floor.

Filtration runs through five layers, finishing with a HEPA H14 filter that captures 99.99% of particles down to 0.1µm. This is the level at which bacteria and viruses become relevant and is the same filtration standard you'd find on the Dyson Gen5Detect, which we have also reviewed and rated to be a 5-star appliance.

What Is the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua Like to Use?

When you pick up the Z30 Pro Aqua, the first thing you notice is how heavy it is. At 4.9lbs / 2.2kg, it's on the bulkier side for a cordless stick vacuum, but it's not uncomfortable to use.

The handle sits at a comfortable height, and the controls – a power button, suction mode switch, and dust cap release – are all within easy reach. Swapping between the two floor heads is relatively straightforward; the weight and bulk of the vacuum make it slightly awkward, but it's a quick job.

I'd prefer if just one floor head handled both types of cleans, in the way the best robot vacuums offer vacuuming and mopping together, but this is a minor complaint.

On the flip side, I like that both floor heads have been more precisely engineered to do one thing well, rather than trying to be a Jack of all trades.

Auto mode is where the vacuum spends most of its time in normal use, and the dirt detection does make a difference. You can hear and feel the suction change as it crosses from a hard floor onto a rug.

This takes some getting used to, and the automatic changes in suction (and thus noise) can be irritating. It also took me a while to trust that it was adjusting the suction correctly, which made the fact that I could see a real-time readout of what was being picked up on the built-in LCD another surprisingly useful feature.

In terms of battery life, Dreame's claim of 90 minutes on Eco mode fell short during my tests. In real-world use, I managed an average of 50 minutes on Eco, which is significantly less than the brand's numbers. In Auto mode, it was closer to 30–40 minutes. Turbo drains the battery considerably faster (in around 15-20 minutes) and, as such, is best used in short bursts for stubborn areas rather than as a default mode.

These Auto mode times were enough for a single, basic run of my medium-sized home, and based on how often I vacuum, which averages three to four times a week, this was plenty for me and my needs.

For the times I wanted a deeper clean, after we'd had friends over or when my brown Labrador had made a mess, I had to recharge mid-clean, which was annoying, but also is standard for many cordless vacuum batteries. I deliberately own an upright, corded vacuum for such scenarios where longer cleaning sessions at higher power are required.

On hard floors, the TangleCut dry brush head glides smoothly and quietly, with none of the scraping sounds you sometimes get from motorized heads on stone or tile. The LED lighting is a feature that sounds cosmetic but proves its worth on hardwood or stone.

You'll almost certainly find yourself cleaning areas you thought were already clean, or going back over areas to pick up missed pet hair, once you see what the light reveals. After two weeks of cleaning sessions, the brush roller still looks largely clean, which is not something I can normally say in my home.

Switching to wet cleaning mode is where the Z30 Pro Aqua really differentiates itself. Setting up the water tank takes under a minute, and once running, the AquaCycle 2.0 wet brush leaves hard floors much cleaner than a dry pass alone. It's particularly good at tackling the kind of dried-on stains around the stove, droplets from the coffee machine, or sticky patches near the sink that even the mopping feature of robovacuums often struggles with.

I also loved the fact the base deals with all the hassle that typically comes from wet cleaning. It's one of those features that have been standard on robo vacuums – including the brilliant Dreame Aqua 10 – for a while and is one you'll soon wonder how you ever did without. You never have to handle a wet, dirty brush head directly or deal with damp smells. It also stops mold and bacteria from forming between cleans and both are genuine quality-of-life improvements. The only thing you need to remember is to top-up/empty the tanks.

On a full tank, I managed an average of 40 minutes of wet cleaning. In theory, few people will need (or want) to be cleaning their floors for 40 minutes but it's impressive nonetheless. Obviously if the floors are particularly dirty or you have a house full of hardwood floors, you may need to top the tank back up mid-clean.

In terms of noise, it runs at around 91dB on Turbo and 61dB on Eco. It's loud in the way that most high-powered cordless vacuums are loud, but on Auto and Eco it's perfectly manageable for everyday use and you can easily hear a podcast playing, or your child shouting at you from another room.

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

For this test I used half a cup of flour and sugar spread across carpet, hardwood and laminate, covering enough ground to clearly see where the vacuum had been.

Flour and sugar are good stand-ins for the kind of fine mess that builds up on floors day to day: flour behaves like dust and dead skin, sugar's closer to the sticky, granular debris that tends to gather around kitchen counters and dining tables.

Flour is also a good visual indicator because you can immediately see what's been picked up and what's been left behind, and whether any has worked its way into the brush roll.

On carpet, the Z30 Pro Aqua was excellent. One pass was all it took to clear everything, with Auto mode kicking up the suction as soon as it hit the debris. Nothing was left behind and nothing got stuck in the brush.

On hard floors the fine flour and sugar were handled well on both laminate and hardwood, although it took a couple of passes to clear it all fully. The blue light that shines from the floor head came in handy here as it revealed what had been left behind.

Across all floor types, no flour was caked onto the brush roll, which is something that tripped up a lot of motorized heads I've tested.

Test 2: Pantry

For this test I used half a cup of cereal and red lentils spread across carpet, hardwood and laminate. Cereal mimics the kind of larger debris, like pasta or rice that you'd find on a kitchen floor after a spill, while the lentils are smaller and denser, with a habit of sticking to hard floors and rolling away from the suction path.

On carpet, like with the flour and sugar tests, the Z30 Pro did a great job. The brush roller drove everything into the suction path and both the cereal and lentils were cleared in a pass or two without any fuss.

On hard floors, it was more of a mixed bag. The lentils came up well on both laminate and hardwood; a few got flung around, but on the whole, the head passed over them easily. The cereal was trickier. On laminate, the brush head pushed the larger pieces forward and into corners rather than picking them up, so you end up chasing the mess a bit.

So much so, the only way to get rid of it all was to swap the dry floor head and the crevice nozzle. On hardwood, it was even worse, with pieces scattering away from the head more easily. Slowing down and working in shorter strokes helps, but it does take more effort than you'd want on what should be a quick kitchen clean-up.

It's worth saying this isn't unusual for a powerful motorized head on hard floors. The Dyson Gen5 Detect performs in a similar way, but it's something to be aware of if your home is mostly hard flooring and you're regularly dealing with larger debris.

Test 3: Pet Hair

We have a chocolate Labrador, and while labs aren't the heaviest shedders, compared to something like a Husky or a Golden Retriever, her short, fine hairs have a way of working themselves into carpet fibers and corners, which can make it trickier to keep the house clean with pets. You can't see these hairs easily day-to-day, but when you're building LEGO with the kids or setting up a board game on the floor, they're very noticeable.

I tested the Z30 Pro Aqua's performance on pet hair on both carpet and hard floors. In Eco mode, it made very little difference. The lower suction didn't even pull the hairs up from the lino, let alone from deep in the carpet.

Switching to Turbo made a major difference, and on both carpet and hard floors, Turbo mode cleared the hair more effectively than even my upright, corded vacuum does, leaving very little behind and making it a strong contender for our best vacuum for pet hair guide.

Crucially, the TangleCut dual-blade design stayed clean and free of hair throughout, with no need to stop and pull hair out any of it by hand.

The Attachments

In addition to the two floor heads and stick, the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua comes with three attachments as standard:

• Crevice nozzle: A narrow, angled tool for tight spaces between sofa cushions, along baseboards, inside car door pockets, and around radiators.
• Wide fluff tool: A broad, soft-bristled head for more delicate surfaces like upholstery, curtains, mattresses, and lampshades.
• Soft dusting brush: A smaller brush for surfaces that need light attention rather than suction: shelves, blinds, keyboards, and other areas where you want to collect dust rather than scatter it.

Each one clicks and locks into place on the base, meaning they won't fall off or get lost. Getting them aligned takes a bit of trial and error, but once you've got it down, it's genuinely fast to switch between them mid-clean.

The crevice nozzle was the standout for me. It helped me clear all of the large debris that was flung into the corners of my kitchen following my tests. The angled end means it fits into even awkward spaces and pulls the debris up cleanly in a single pass. It's the attachment I reached for most often, and it's particularly good for baseboards.

The wide fluff tool does a decent job on upholstery and softer surfaces where you don't want a motorized brush roll making contact. It's gentler than it looks and picks up surface dust and pet hair from sofas and cushions without being too aggressive on the fabric. It's not an attachment you'll use every time, but it is useful when you need it.

The soft dusting brush is the most niche of the three. It's best suited to shelves, blinds, and surfaces that need a light touch rather than serious suction, and it works best on Eco mode. Even then, though, it's easy to accidentally vacuum up Lego pieces, and I'd love for the Z30 Pro to recognize when the dusting brush is attached and drop the suction down to a minimum.

Setup and Maintenance

The Z30 Pro Aqua isn't a small piece of kit and extends to its packaging. It arrives in a huge box that is primarily packed with cardboard and minimal plastic. Everything inside is then separated by molded cardboard inserts rather than foam.

Inside the box is the vacuum body, the TangleCut dry floor head, the AquaCycle 2.0 wet cleaning floor head, the self-cleaning charging station, the bendable extension rod, a crevice nozzle, a wide fluff tool, a soft dusting brush, and the power cable.

Assembly of all this kit minimal. The extension rod clicks into the vacuum body, one floor head clicks onto the bottom of the rod and the other slots into the dedicated floor head storage slot in base. The other storage slots on the base are for the different attachments and you can choose to distribute those as you like.

The charging connection is on the back of the extension rod, so you need to make sure that's correctly lined up with the connectors on the base before parking the vacuum. The docking mechanism itself uses a small hook that you push in to release and push back to lock. It's simple enough once you know it's there, but it's also easy to knock accidentally. This can cause the vacuum to release unexpectedly (and land on your head while you're adjusting the location of the base...) It also means it needs extra space around the entire unit in order to use this feature.

Once all the pieces are in place, the charging station plugs into the wall. The cord is short which doesn't leave many options when it comes to positioning. Dreame then recommends charging fully before first use. The manual claims this takes around four hours but during our setup it was closer to two. You can also see the current battery level on the LCD display, and the station's self-cleaning button lights up blue when it's powered on and charging.

The charging station handles the part of wet vacuum maintenance that I usually dread. After a wet cleaning session, it automatically cleans and dries the brush roller with zero intervention other than placing the vacuum on the base. The only thing you have to remember occasionally is to top up and empty the clean and dirty water tanks as needed.

After a dry vacuum session, you empty the dust bin by pressing a button on the main vacuum body to release the cap. This was one of my surprise favorite features. I find emptying the bagless bin on Dyson vacuums unnecessarily fiddly, and being able to do it largely one-handed on the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua was, well, a dream.

For deeper cleaning, most of the Z30 Pro Aqua's components are washable. The dust cup, the AquaCycle 2.0 brush roller, the clean and dirty water tanks, and the pre-filter can all be rinsed under water.

The HEPA H14 filter is also washable. Dreame recommends cleaning it every month and allowing it to air dry for at least 24 hours before reinstalling, which means it's worth having a cleaning day routine where the filter wash happens at the start so it's dry by the time you're done. The filter is a lifetime component rather than a consumable, so there's no ongoing replacement cost.

The parts that need more careful handling are the motorized components, such as the TangleCut brush head's blades, and the vacuum body itself, which you can wipe down with a cloth. To clean the brush roller, press the release button to remove it, cut away any remaining hair, and wipe with a cloth.

Given that the TangleCut blades are actively cutting hair during use, the amount of manual hair you'll have to remove will be minimal. I didn't have to clear or clean it once during my month-long test, although I chose to take it off and clean it for hygiene purposes.

One point worth noting: the vacuum can only be charged with the AquaCycle 2.0 wet brush attached. The connectors on the rod can't reach the charging port on the base with the dry brush head attached. This means you can't simply park the vacuum on the base mid-session with the dry brush head attached and expect it to charge.

How Does the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua Compare?

The most natural comparison for the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua is the H15 Pro from Dreame's own wet-dry lineup. The $649.99 / £399.99 H15 Pro is a dedicated floor washer with 21,000Pa suction, a self-cleaning base with 100°C hot water wash, and a clever AI robotic arm that edges right up to skirting boards.

Where the H15 Pro has the advantage is in pure wet cleaning coverage – 60 minutes in floor washing mode covering up to 400m2 versus the Z30 Pro Aqua's 45 minutes and 290m2. The trade-off is that the H15 Pro is exclusively a floor washer. It can pick up dry debris, but it isn't a full-power cordless stick vacuum like the Z30 Pro Aqua.

The closest rival from outside Dreame is the Tineco Floor One S7 Pro, which retails for $799.99 / £599.99. Like the Z30 Pro Aqua, it combines vacuuming and mopping in one with smart dirt detection that automatically adjusts suction power and water flow. It also deodorizes.

If your home is mainly hard flooring and wet cleaning is your priority, the H15 Pro is worth considering, but if you want a single machine that genuinely replaces both your vacuum and your mop, the Z30 Pro Aqua makes a stronger case.

How We Test Vacuums

At Homes & Gardens, we standardize how we test vacuums so we can get a like-for-like comparison between models, and to make sure we're recreating real-life circumstances.

I tested the Dreame Z30 Pro Aqua for a month in my home, across carpet, hardwood, and laminate. In addition to running all three standardized tests – flour and sugar; lentils and cereal; pet hair – I used it for everyday cleaning throughout. This included picking up after Maisie, my chocolate Lab, tackling the kitchen floor after cooking, and using the wet cleaning function on the hard floors throughout the house. I then tracked how noisy it was using the DecibelX app.

This gave me a much more complete picture of how the vacuum performs in real conditions than a single test session would, including how the self-cleaning station holds up over repeated wet cleaning sessions and how the brush roll fares after weeks of regular use rather than just a single controlled test.

Overall, this would make one of the best Dyson alternatives, and is a worthy contender for versatile floor care. It is worth noting that if you have a lot of hard flooring, the water tank will need a top-up mid-session.

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My One Minute Verdict

The Karcher WD 6 P is not a vacuum for the faint-hearted. At 21.2lb / 9.6kg with a 7.9-gallon / 30-liter stainless steel tank, it most definitely earns its industrial, wet/dry shop title. It's a machine built for the kind of mess your everyday cordless won't touch, like flooded garages, workshop sawdust, post-renovation rubble, and anything liquid or heavy that has no business going near a regular vacuum.

When it works, it really works – and it’s a strong contender for the best vacuum for pet hair in the right setting. The suction is impressively powerful; my chocolate Labrador’s hair disappeared from hard floors and upholstery in a single pass. The blower function is equally effective, making quick work of leaf clearing and even blasting away water balloon debris scattered across the garden.

On carpet, the brushes on the main vacuum nozzle make the head stick and drag rather than glide, and on smooth hard floors, the same brush strips pushed debris around rather than picking it up cleanly.

This made it abundantly clear that the Kärcher WD 6 P is designed for rougher, uneven surfaces – garages, patios, workshops – rather than everyday flooring. Switching to wet mode, where the rubber lips take over from the brush strips, is a much more satisfying experience, and the machine's true strength lies in liquid pickup and heavy outdoor tasks.

Elsewhere, it's not an easy vacuum to build. Setup took close to 20 minutes – longer than any vacuum I've tested. Once built, it's also a beast of a machine and takes up a lot of space, which saw it quickly relegated to the garage.

At $349.99, this is a premium investment in a very specific kind of cleaning. If you have a garage, workshop, or outdoor space that regularly generates mess, it may well be the most capable tool you own. Especially if you have the storage space to match. For DIY fans, the integrated power tool socket on the front lets you plug your sander or drill directly into the machine and the vacuum starts and stops in sync with your tool, capturing dust at the source without any extra effort. Yet it is ultimately a niche recommendation.

If you're hoping for a versatile everyday vacuum that also handles the odd spill – especially if you have a low tolerance for noise and friction – you're better off with a standard wet-to-dry upright, like the Dreame H14 Pro or the Dyson V15 Detect.

Kärcher WD 6 P: Specifications

Kärcher WD 6 P: Design and Features

There is nothing subtle about the WD 6 P. It's unapologetically large, bulky and bright yellow. The 7.9-gallon / 30-liter stainless steel tank sits on five castors and is topped by a yellow motor head that houses the controls, filter system and accessory storage.

As with the rest of the Karcher range, it's a design that says workshop rather than home, which is exactly what Karcher intends – this vacuum is built for the kind of heavy-duty mess that a domestic canister or cordless simply can't handle.

The motor delivers 1,300W of rated input power and 300W of suction power – figures that put it well ahead of the Kärcher WD 5's 1,100W, and on par with the Bosch AdvancedVac 20's 300W suction, despite the Bosch drawing only 1,200W. The stainless steel tank is noticeably more durable than the plastic containers on lower-priced wet-dry vacs and is designed to withstand abrasive debris.

One of the WD 6 P's standout features is its push-button filter cleaning system, which Kärcher calls pulse technology. A single press sends a burst of air through the flat pleated filter, dislodging accumulated hidden dust back into the tank and restoring full suction power. This is particularly useful when vacuuming fine dust without a filter bag.

The flat pleated filter is also designed to stay dry during wet pickup – it sits in a top-mounted filter box that doesn't come into contact with liquid. This means you can switch between wet and dry tasks without removing or changing the filter. You do have to remove the fleece dustbag when switching to wet vacuuming, though (which I have forgotten on several occasions to my despair.)

On the front of the motor head is a rotary dial that you turn left to control the suction/blow power of the vacuum, and to the right to control the integrated power tool socket. This socket sits next to the dial and lets you plug in external tools to either provide power without the need for a separate extension lead, or it can be used to set the vacuum to switch on and off in sync with the tool. This is a useful feature during sanding or drilling and is something its predecessor, the WD 5 lacked.

An 8m (26.2ft) cord and 2.2m (7.2ft) hose then give the WD6 P a total working radius of just over 10m (33.5ft), which is more than enough for most workshops or large rooms. I could vacuum all rooms on my entire ground floor and into my garden without having to swap to different plugs.

The hose connects to two stainless steel extension tubes, a removable handle, and the floor nozzle. The other attachments include a crevice nozzle for baseboards, stair edges, and corners. A 1m (3.3ft) flexible hose is also included for connecting to the dust port on a power tool, and there's a bent handle you attach to the tubes to give you better control across the floor.

The floor nozzle is relatively narrow for a machine this size, which does limit how well it covers open floor areas, but allows it to get into tighter spots. It has a lever on the side that switches between two modes – dry, where brush strips extend down to sweep debris toward the suction inlet, and wet, where rubber squeegee lips take over to drag liquid toward it.

There is no neutral position; the nozzle is always in one mode or the other, so for bare suction without either the brushes or the rubber lips, you need to switch to a different attachment.

Both the cable and hose have dedicated storage positions on the machine, and the floor nozzle has a parking position so it can be hooked onto the body during work breaks.

For wet tasks, a drain screw at the base of the tank allows liquid to be emptied without lifting the machine – a practical consideration given that a full tank of water on the Kärcher WD 6 P will weigh around 66lb / 30kg.

The blower function works by moving the hose to the outlet port on the machine, reversing airflow to dislodge debris from hard-to-reach areas such as gravel beds or patio crevices. It's a small and simple touch, but it's super effective and useful, especially outdoors.

What Is the Kärcher WD 6 P Like to Use?

One of my favorite features of the Kärcher WD6 P is its castors. I never thought I'd celebrate something so innocuous, but having reviewed dozens of vacuums, these genuinely elevated the experience for me.

They make the machine incredibly easy to pull across hard floors and carpet, despite its bulk. I often get frustrated with the cord on upright and domestic vacuums always getting in the way, but the smooth way the castors navigate and pass over the WD 6 P's cord, plus having 26.2ft / 8m of cord to play with, means this was never an issue.

At 9.6kg (21.2lb) without accessories, there's no denying this is a heavy machine, and the weight is still felt when maneuvering in tight spaces or changing direction frequently, but the castors again make it feel much lighter and easier.

Due to the brushes on the floor nozzle, the Karcher WD6 P's performance on carpet and hardwood floors depends on getting the nozzle angle right. You have to tilt it slightly in order to pick up debris, rather than just move it around, and this doesn't always feel comfortable.

On carpet in particular, the brush and powerful suction work against you: the head drags and sticks, requiring real effort to push, and the brush strips tend to bury finer debris deeper into the pile rather than lifting it. This is not a machine built for carpeted rooms, or certainly not without switching to a different nozzle.

Switching to wet mode is a much better experience. The rubber lips glide across hard floors and pick up liquid cleanly and confidently, which is where the WD 6 P really earns its price.

On noise, the Kärcher WD 6 P is loud. The specification lists 73dB, but in my test, it was closer to 89dB on the minimum suction power, and 92dB on maximum. It's not comfortable for long periods.

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

For our flour and sugar test, I scattered a half-cup mixture across carpet, hardwood, and laminate to see how well the Kärcher WD6 P handles fine dry debris. This test is a proxy for the dust, skin cells, and fine dirt that build up across real homes.

On hard floors and laminate, the WD 6 P performed well, with the floor nozzle in dry mode picking up the mixture cleanly. The brushes on the underside of the nozzle come into their own here and guide the dust towards the suction inlet. Residue was minimal after a single pass.

Carpet was a different story. The suction and brush combo ended up simply pushing the flour and sugar deeper into the pile, leaving streaks across the carpet.

Working the nozzle repeatedly at different angles helped, but even with effort, some residue remained. If your home is predominantly carpeted, a dedicated upright or canister vacuum will serve you considerably better.

Test 2: Pantry

For my pantry test, I poured half a cup of cereal and lentils onto the same three floor types as before – carpet, hardwood and laminate.

On the laminate and wood, the Kärcher WD 6 P did an OK job with the lentils but struggled with cereal – you can clearly see in my review videos how the floor nozzle pushes the Cheerios around the surface rather than drawing them in cleanly, scattering pieces rather than collecting them.

Again, this is managed by angling the nozzle slightly, but the trade-off is that this isn't comfortable for long.

The brush strips work well on rougher, more uneven surfaces, such as garage floors or patios, where they have something to grip against, but on smooth flooring, they don't have enough purchase to guide lighter debris toward the suction inlet.

Test 3: Pet Hair

Maisie, my chocolate Labrador, is a dependable supplier of dark, dense, medium-length hair across my hard floors, upholstery, and carpets – and a solid real-world test for any vacuum claiming to be the best vacuum for pet hair.

On hard floors, the WD 6 P performed extremely well. Maisie’s hair vanished in a single pass, pulled straight into the hose without wrapping or leaving stray strands behind.

Suction is more than strong enough to handle even heavy concentrations of pet hair, and the lack of a brushroll means there’s nothing for hair to tangle around. A few strands do collect in the nozzle brushes, but they’re quick and easy to remove.

On carpet, the same angle-dependent performance applies, although longer pet hair is easier for it to lift and capture than fine dust and powder.

For pet owners with mostly hard floors and upholstery, the WD 6 P is highly capable. For carpet-heavy homes, however, a more dedicated pet-focused vacuum like the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog, available on Amazon, would be the better fit.

Test 4: Attachments

Swapping between attachments is refreshingly simple – in fact, it was the easiest part of the entire process. Everything twists and clicks securely onto the hose or extension tubes with a firm push, and detaches with a quick thumb press.

Nothing felt loose during use, although the fittings do require more force than you might be used to with a standard domestic vacuum – a reminder that this is built for tougher, more industrial-style cleaning.

The floor nozzle saw the most use. In dry mode, the brush strips are better suited to rougher, more textured surfaces than smooth floors, as noted in the tests above. In wet mode, however, the rubber lips performed noticeably better, giving a more controlled, purpose-built feel for handling spills and wet debris.

The lever switch between the two modes is easy to access and can be operated with your foot, making transitions quick and low-effort mid-clean.

The crevice nozzle proved genuinely useful. Dust in corners and along edges was removed cleanly in a single pass, with the strong suction doing most of the heavy lifting. It also came into its own for clearing the residue left behind during my flour and sugar tests, and it’s equally effective on baseboards, stair edges, and the gaps between appliances.

The bent handle noticeably improves control when pushing the floor nozzle across surfaces, particularly on carpet. It also detaches easily, allowing you to connect a nozzle directly to the hose for overhead cleaning or awkward angles without fuss.

One notable omission is the lack of an upholstery nozzle in the box – surprising at this price point – although a range of compatible accessories can be purchased separately from Kärcher.

Kärcher WD 6 P: Setup and Maintenance

The Kärcher WD 6 P was one of the most frustrating vacuums I’ve tested when it came to setup. Every step introduces more friction than you’d expect, from trying to attach the rotating castors to a wobbly, upside-down base, to repositioning the carry handle just to remove and refit the motor head.

Figuring out where everything goes isn’t intuitive either, and because the manual is mostly illustrated rather than genuinely explanatory, I ended up having to look up additional guidance online. The whole process took around 20 minutes and tested my patience more than once.

Emptying the WD 6 P is very dependent on what you’ve been cleaning. For wet waste, the drain screw at the base of the tank is the cleanest method – simply unscrew it, tilt the machine forward, and the liquid flows out without needing to lift the tank.

For dry waste, you need to move the carry handle forward to unlock the motor head, then twist, lift, and tip the tank into a bin.

Both emptying methods are straightforward enough, although the size and weight of the tank mean the process is less elegant than simply emptying a compact dustbin.

On the upside, the tank takes a long time to fill – unless you’re tackling a particularly large job – so this isn’t something you’ll need to do frequently in everyday use.

When used for dry tasks, the fleece bag does a good job of containing dust and can be lifted out cleanly without releasing a cloud of debris. That’s a meaningful advantage over bagless designs, especially after vacuuming fine dust or sawdust.

Replacement bags are readily available from Kärcher as well as third-party suppliers, and they’re simple to fit when needed.

The flat pleated filter is the component you’ll interact with most regularly. The push-button cleaning system takes care of the bulk of day-to-day maintenance, but when a more thorough clean is needed, the filter box releases with a press, folds open, and the filter lifts out cleanly without requiring you to reach inside the tank.

It can be rinsed under a tap and reused – Kärcher describes it as a lifetime filter when properly maintained – but it must be fully dry before being reinserted, which does require a bit of planning ahead.

The stainless steel tank interior is smooth and easy to wipe out, and shows less staining than a plastic container would over time. The hoses and tubes are straightforward to clear if blocked – disconnect, run water through if needed, and allow to dry.

Overall, the machine feels built to last, with the stainless steel tank and solid connection points giving it a durability that cheaper plastic wet-dry vacs don't match, and which helps justify the higher price.

How Does the Kärcher WD 6 P Compare?

The Kärcher WD 6 P sits at the mid-to-higher end of the wet-dry vacuum market at $349.99, and whether it justifies that price depends almost entirely on what you need it for. The most direct comparison is its predecessor, the $249.99 Kärcher WD 5. It shares the same core wet-dry design, but omits several key upgrades – including the power tool socket, push-button filter cleaning, and drain screw – all of which make a noticeable difference in day-to-day usability on the WD 6 P.

It also uses a smaller plastic container rather than the WD 6 P’s stainless steel tank, and the 16ft / 5m cord feels more restrictive in comparison. At $100 less, the WD 5 makes sense for lighter or occasional use, but for regular DIY work or more demanding wet cleaning tasks, the WD 6 P’s added features comfortably justify the step up.

How We Test Vacuums

We test every vacuum we review in real-world conditions across a range of floor types and debris categories. Each model goes through a consistent set of tests: flour and sugar on carpet, hard floors, and laminate to assess fine debris pickup; a pantry-style test using larger, heavier debris to evaluate general performance; and a pet hair test using real fur from Maisie, my chocolate Labrador, across both carpet and hard flooring.

We also assess each vacuum across setup time, ease of use, noise, manoeuvrability, and ongoing maintenance – including how simple it is to empty, clean, and reassemble. Every attachment is tested individually as well to understand its real-world practicality.

For wet-dry vacuums, we run additional tests covering wet pickup performance, evaluate any blower or secondary functions where included, and measure noise levels using the DecibelX app.

For full details of our testing methodology, see how we test vacuums.

The Dyson PencilWash is a sleek, lightweight hard floor cleaner that promises clean floors with minimal effort, using only fresh water and a fast-spinning mop roller. It's one of Dyson's latest releases that focuses primarily on hard floor cleaning.

On test, the Dyson PencilWash certainly lived up to its name as a near-effortless appliance to use, but its cleaning performance left much to be desired. However, if you're looking for a gentle cleaner to handle daily messes on your hard floors between your weekly cleans, then this is perfect.

If you're in the market for one of the best vacuum-mop combos to streamline vacuuming and mopping for truly spotless floors, the PencilWash may not be for you – and I'd recommend other models from Dreame and Tineco that have shone from our rigorous testing sessions.

My One-Minute Summary

The Dyson PencilWash is a smooth, maneuverable wet floor cleaner that is so lightweight and nimble, it almost feels like it's an extension of your arm. It's sleeker than other vacuum-mop combos out there, and its metallic, bronzed aesthetic would make a nice addition to a kitchen or laundry room.

However, it's only really useful as a light, gentle cleaner. It can't handle thick spillages easily, nor can it pick up medium or large debris. It takes repeated passes to clean stains, and its suction is a little poor when it comes to picking up residue that's stuck between any cracks.

In reality, this means you'll still need your best vacuum cleaner, as well as a regular mop, to be able to deeply sanitize your floors.

At a similar price, I would recommend the Dreame H14 Pro or the Tineco Floor One Strech S6. Both vacuum-mops clean much more thoroughly, while being less messy to empty, and with a charging station that cleans and dries the mop roller to avoid bacteria buildup.

Dyson PencilWash: Specifications

Dyson PencilWash: Design and Features

The Dyson PencilWash is a slimmer, more stylish vacuum-mop than those popularized by brands such as Dreame, Tineco and Bissell. It has a sleek, metallic aesthetic, with a bronzed orange wand that will blend nicely into chic kitchen interiors and laundry rooms.

Other than the floorhead and the coloring, it's designed almost the same as the Dyson PencilVac Fluffycones, Dyson's latest and slimmest cordless vacuum:

Both models are part of Dyson's latest push to release sleek appliances that can easily blend into the home, take up minimal storage space, and are lightweight and effortless to use.

Like most vacuum-mop combos, the PencilWash has multiple suction modes, but only two: Normal and MAX. There is no dirt detection, so it won't adjust its cleaning based on how dirty your floors are.

Instead, when you need to spot clean stubborn stains, press the MAX button, and the roller will clean using more water for five seconds. Or, you can hold it down to use for longer.

The Dyson PencilWash is designed to be used with just water, but you can use the Dyson 02 Probiotic Hard Floor Cleaning Solution (that costs $23.99) for a more thorough clean. It isn't included with the initial purchase.

The roller spins while being continually refreshed by clean water from eight hydration points, while a fine scraper removes dirty water and debris with every spin.

The Dyson PencilWash keeps all clean and dirty water within the floorhead, so it doesn't move up through the machine, eliminating the need for a filter and minimizing potential durability issues.

However, this means that the water tanks are tiny. Compared to the 20-30 fluid ounces you'd typically expect for each tank, the PencilWash has a 10.1 fl. oz. clean tank and an 11.5 fl. oz. dirty tank.

The vacuum has a maximum runtime of 30 minutes, and charges on the charging dock in around two hours.

What is the Dyson PencilWash Like to Use?

The Dyson PencilWash has the best manoeuvrability out of any vacuum-mop I've tested. The straight handle offers natural, controlled movements, swivelling around objects and into tight spaces with ease.

That, in my view, is this vacuum's greatest strength. It's a lightweight and nimble appliance that can swiftly mop hard floors, removing light debris and liquid spills.

But after testing the Dyson PencilWash throughout my home, which has a mix of tile, wood, and laminate flooring, I felt that it was only carrying out a light clean.

On normal mode, it felt as if the mop roller wasn't cleaning as thoroughly as a regular mop. There was occasionally a thin, dry gap in the cleaning path, showing that the wet roller wasn't always consistently touching the floor, and afterwards, the floor still felt a little sticky, and by no means sanitized.

This may be improved with the addition of the Dyson 02 Probiotic Hard Floor Cleaner, but even if so, the suction wasn't strong enough to pick up many visible pieces of debris on my floor. Onion peels, crumbs, and other debris were either left on the floor after repeated passes or sucked up only to fall back out of the floorhead minutes later.

I wouldn't rely on the PencilWash to be your home's only wet floor cleaner, which may be somewhat excessive considering the $350 price point. But, if you're happy to always vacuum first, and perhaps spray some of your own cleaning solution on the floor to help with the deep clean, then the PencilWash could make a sleek, easy-to-use addition to your cleaning toolkit.

Dyson PencilWash: Cleaning Tests

I tested the Dyson PencilWash using our standardized vacuum-mop tests, to assess its ability to clean up messes of different consistencies and sizes. This includes ketchup, mustard, chunky pasta sauce, a raw egg and its shell, and milk and cereal.

I first attempted to clean the ketchup and mustard stains in normal mode, but a significant amount of residue was left behind. But unfortunately, in MAX mode, the results were quite similar.

The PencilWash cleaned the majority of the mustard in about four passes, but it then took a lot longer (and cleaning from different angles) to get the mustard that was between the cracks. Plus, watery mustard residue seeped out of the floorhead, meaning I had to go over the patch a few more times to make sure that was cleared, too.

This problem persisted when cleaning ketchup, too. As the vacuum passed through the ketchup stain, mustard residue spilled out of the floorhead again. This is indicative of the dirty tank design. It isn't completely self-contained; rather, it is essentially a drip tray with no secure lid, allowing dirty liquid to easily spill out.

The stain removal performance on the ketchup and pasta sauce was similar to that of cleaning mustard. Most of it was cleared in three passes, but it took longer to vacuum between the cracks and what had spilled out of the floorhead.

Attempting to clean the egg, milk and cereal demonstrated how poorly the PencilWash handles debris. Granted, these can be challenging tests for even the most robust vacuum-mops, such as the Dreame H14 Pro, but the PencilWash was virtually unable to vacuum any eggshell pieces or cereal crumbs, leaving me to wash the entire floorhead by hand to remove the stuck-on mess.

To summarise, the PencilWash can clear sauce spillages faster than your regular mop, but for any debris, you'd be better off cleaning it by hand.

Dyson PencilWash: Setup and Maintenance

Setting up the PencilWash was a quick process. Attach the handle to the main wand, insert it into the charging base, and plug it in until fully charged (for me, this took two hours).

The charging dock doesn't clean or dry the roller. Instead, the floorhead must be removed and placed into a separate drip tray (pictured above), while the 'Pencil' wand attaches to the charging station.

This doubles the floor space needed to store the vacuum. But more importantly, it makes the floorhead more easily prone to unwanted odors, bacteria and mold growth.

Dyson recommends that you rinse the roller and the floorhead parts after each use, however there's no way to do so without getting your hands dirty:

The dirty water tank is essentially the entire bottom of the floorhead, so all of the vacuumed-up mess gets into every part. Each part is small and needs to be taken apart by hand.

Thoroughly cleaning the floorhead after every use would undoubtedly minimize the risk of smells and bacteria growth, but as it's such a messy process, this would naturally be an off-putting step for many, especially when alternative models such as the Dreame H14 Pro and the Tineco Floor One Stretch S6 can be emptied and rinsed largely without having to touch the mess yourself.

That said, every part is small and therefore easy to rinse with minimal splashing, even if you have a small sink.

How Does the Dyson PencilWash Compare?

The Dyson PencilWash costs $349.99 at Dyson. That's more affordable than the $600 to $800 you can typically expect to pay for flagship models from brands such as Dreame and Tineco, but still quite a high price when you consider the PencilWash's lackluster cleaning performance.

The Dreame H14 Pro, our best-on-test vacuum-mop, cost $699.99 when released, but now you can find it for around $350 to $450 at Dreame. It cleans more thoroughly than the PencilWash in every way – handling thick spillages and large debris as easily as small stains – and it also self-dries the mop roller to avoid bacteria growth and odors.

The Tineco Floor One Stretch S6 is another great option, with similar maneuverability to the PencilWash, including the ability to lie completely flat. It costs $349 at Tineco, and again, cleans more effectively than the PencilWash, with more robust debris pickup, and a less messy emptying mechanism.

For more vacuum shopping advice, learn how the best robot vacuums from our rigorous testing sessions can make your weekly cleans less intensive.

Banishing dust and allergens that have built up in your home is a never-ending cycle, especially with pollen counts rising sharply. But there's one secret dust trap that most householders forget to clean: Fabric headboards.

These headboards can act as magnets for airborne particles. Much like carpets, sofas, and pet beds, the soft, fibrous surface of your headboard collects dust, dander, and pollen daily, and if left uncleaned, will expose you to allergens while you sleep.

Fortunately, the fix is simple. Use the correct attachment for your vacuum cleaner, and the accumulated dust and pollen will be cleared with ease in seconds this spring.

How to Clean This Common Household 'Dust Trap' This Month

Scott Levene, air quality expert and VP of Levco, recommends the right tools for cleaning the dust trap that is your fabric headboard: 'Smaller handheld vacuums with soft brush attachments work the best.'

This $11.59 set of universal soft brush attachments at Amazon is perfect for the task, with an adjustable nozzle to fit different vacuum models.

'However, it’s ideal to use a crevice tool for cleaning tufted buttons, seams, and decorative crevices where dust and debris accumulate the most,' he adds.

The process of vacuuming a fabric headboard is easy, as Rhonda Wilson, quality lead cleaner at FreshSpace Cleaning, recommends. She says, 'Always move from top to bottom, in slow and overlapping strokes.'

This is important when cleaning upholstery, as vacuuming from top to bottom captures dust that floats down below from higher areas.

Alternatively, a lint roller, such as this $12.99 pack of six rollers at Amazon, will capture micro-sized particles on your headboard, but they won't be able to reach into crevices or around buttons.

Why It's Important to Clean Your Headboard In Spring

'Fabric collects dust and allergens and is harder to clean than a wooden headboard because it is like magnets for dead skin cells, pet dander, and body oils,' says Scott. 'Without routine cleaning, they can harbor allergens.'

Rhonda also explains how certain fabrics and designs can worsen the allergen buildup: 'If you have a tufted headboard, the piping along the edges acts like a ridge collecting dust.'

'As for the fabric, anything heavier in texture, like chenille or tweed style, poses a problem, as thicker yarns and a more pronounced weave trap dust. And if you run your hand over velvet, the upright fibers are where the dust will cling,' she continues.

This accumulation, which can grow exponentially in spring when your windows are more likely to be open for extended periods before the haze of summer humidity hits, makes your headboard prime for catching the allergens that will end up setting you off overnight.

Removing this as part of your weekly cleaning routine will help you sleep better and avoid seasonal allergy flares. Adding a good air purifier to your sleep space, such as the Shark NeverChange Max we reviewed and rated highly, will also capture rogue floating particles, maximizing your comfort further during the spring season of pollen spikes.

What to Shop

To be able to deep clean your headboard of any dust, pollen, and household allergens, you'll need a few tools in your cleaning toolkit: A soft brush attachment and crevice tool for your vacuum cleaner, a lint roller for quick cleans, and a microfiber cloth for removing any visible marks. Here is a selection recommended by our product experts.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, learn the surprising things making your allergies worse, and how a steam cleaner could be your next solution to allergies.

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Most people vacuum in a similar fashion, 'rowing' the vacuum cleaner in straight, horizontal lines. But when it comes to carpet, this isn't the most effective technique, as the upright carpet fibers aren't being cleaned from every angle.

Instead, you can clean carpets more thoroughly by vacuuming in a 90-degree cross-hatch pattern. It's one of the major learnings I've gathered from testing the best vacuums for pet hair in a cat and dog shelter.

For definitive results, I put it to the test with my Dyson V15 Detect that counts particulate matter. While it may seem like more work, you will pull up a tremendous amount more.

Vacuum in a 90-Degree Cross-Hatch Pattern to Clean More Thoroughly

Whether looped or not, carpet fibers stand upright, and dust, dirt, and hair cling to every side of them. This means that vacuuming forwards and backwards only agitates them from two angles.

Instead, vacuuming in a cross-hatch pattern allows your vacuum's brushroll to agitate every side of each carpet fiber, dislodging what's trapped to allow the suction to pull it up.

I have spent more than 400 hours testing the world's best vacuum cleaners, and a significant portion of that has been spent deep cleaning Bristol ARC, a local cat and dog shelter, finding the most effective ways to pull up as much fur as possible from the low, medium, and thick-pile carpet.

I have learned that this is a simple but highly effective solution that can make even the best vacuums for carpet clean deeper than ever before.

The Results

To find out definitively, I vacuumed two areas of my entryway: One using horizontal lines and the other using the cross-hatch pattern. My entryway has consistent foot traffic along the whole stretch of the floor.

Each area was 4'' by 4'', and I vacuumed each one in ten passes. My Dyson V15 Detect counts individual particles as they're vacuumed, up to the millions, so I was able to accurately compare how much each vacuuming pattern picked up.

The results were clear:

• Using horizontal lines, the vacuum cleaner picked up 51 million particles.
• Using the cross-hatch pattern, the vacuum cleaner picked up 72 million particles.

So, vacuuming in horizontal lines means you're missing almost a third of the dust, debris, and hair that is trapped within your carpet fibers. To maximize your carpet cleaning, the cross-hatch pattern at a 90-degree angle is your best solution.

What to Shop

To help clean your carpets as thoroughly as possible, here are a few tried-and-tested tools that our product experts use at home.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, see which vacuums top our guides of the best Dyson alternatives after our rigorous testing sessions.

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It could be the snowy sludge of the past few weeks or the trodden-in mud of the summer months, but it really doesn't take long for our shoes to make our entryway floors filthy.

But there's a simple (yet handsome) fix: This stylish boot tray at Amazon, which catches dirt and moisture in a waterproof container, and takes just seconds to clean. Sure, it's not a brand new invention, but it's a chic take on the usual plastic offerings.

Your floors will stay spotless, your entryway will look less cluttered, your socks will stay dry, and your vacuum might even last longer, without you having to vacuum up wet debris endlessly.

This simple boot tray is all that's needed to contain all of the outdoor mud and sludge that we track inside daily. Rather than stepping it into our entryways, spreading germs around, and dirtying our precious floors, all of that debris and moisture stays within a self-contained, waterproof tray – and it takes only seconds to clean.

It takes less time and effort to keep your entryway clean this way, compared to vacuuming and mopping more than you need to.

Galvanized steel is a more durable and waterproof material than plastic, and while we aren't understating the value of a doormat, that alone won't protect your floor from moisture, as it continues to seep through and remain on the floor until cleaned.

If your entryway is already cluttered, you may not have thought about bringing another addition into the mix. But professional cleaners and interior designers repeatedly tell us that a clutter-free entryway includes elements like a launch pad for daily essentials, so it makes sense that keeping dirty shoes in their dedicated spot is one of the essential things that people with clean entryways always do.

Having places for storage – rather than shoes dotted around with mud falling off them – is essential for a calmer, more considered look. And if the aesthetic isn't quite what you had in mind for your home, this piece comes in more finishes.

Not only will this mean you can enjoy the benefit of a cleaner, less cluttered entryway, but you will also be protecting your floors. Accumulated dirt and moisture damage floors over time, especially delicate surfaces such as hardwood, so exposing these surfaces to it again and again will only deteriorate the quality, finish, and lifespan of your precious flooring.

I test the best vacuums for a living, and a big part of that involves speaking to appliance engineers and homeowners about the common faults that vacuum cleaners face.

Incorrectly vacuuming up moisture (like the moisture in wet dirt) is a major cause of vacuum breakages, and by confining it to one tray, you're not only protecting your floors – you're preserving your vacuum's lifespan, avoiding more costly repairs down the line.

This boot tray is available at Amazon in a range of different finishes.

What Else to Shop?

Often overlooked, the entryway is one of the hardest-working spaces in the home – your first line of defence against muddy boots, rain-soaked shoes, and everyday debris.

A few thoughtful additions – alongside the clever tray above – can transform it into a beautifully considered, highly practical zone. I’ve rounded up my favourites below: Smart solutions that protect your floors and ensure your space feels polished and welcoming from the moment you step inside.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, learn how to clean a floor without streaks.

I have grown to love Miele vacuums during my time as Homes & Gardens' resident vacuum tester. These premium, robust appliances boast some of the strongest suction and durability on the market, and there are so many models that pretty much every floorcare need can be dealt with.

The Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL is a canister vacuum that is only designed for hard floor cleaning. There are no spinning brushrolls to clean carpets; use soft, padded floorheads that pick up debris using their large surface area and powerful suction.

I tested the Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL in our dedicated test center and a local cat and dog shelter to find out if it could be the next best Miele vacuum for hard floors.

My One-Minute Summary

The Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL is great for vacuuming hard floors, particularly delicate surfaces such as hardwood and tile. There are no spinning brushrolls that can leave marks; instead using padded floorheads and super-strong suction to pick up large amounts of debris at once.

But there are some drawbacks, notably that it's expensive for what it is. There are cheaper vacuums out there that can vacuum hard floors just as well, like the Dreame R20, which is also able to tackle rugs and carpets (unlike the Miele).

Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL: Specifications

Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL: Design and Features

The Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL is designed specifically as a vacuum for hard floors, so neither of the two floorheads (pictured above) has a motorized brushroll. A brushroll can be important for carpet vacuums as the spinning bristles agitate carpet fibers and dislodge debris and hair, but bare floors don't trap dirt, so flat floorheads can do the trick if the suction is strong enough.

And the Parquet XL's suction power is strong. Reaching a maximum of 41.1mph, it generates more airflow than almost all of the 92 best vacuums we've tested at Homes & Gardens. For comparison, the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog, one of our all-time best-on-test vacuums, reaches 31.1mph (but has other features that make it such an effective cleaner).

The Parquet Twister XL floorhead has a design I hadn't yet seen in a vacuum. It's 16 inches wide, with small, soft pads around the edge to guide dust and debris inside. The other standard floorhead is included in most Miele vacuums, and has two grip settings to help it glide across different surfaces.

There are four suction modes, but as the Guard M1 Parquet XL doesn't have a brushroll to help pick up dirt, the best performance will always be on the maximum setting. The others can be useful when using the attachments – say, if you're vacuuming curtains or a mattress and the strongest suction would create too much resistance.

The Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL uses vacuum bags. So, no emptying the dustbin – instead, you simply dispose of the vacuum bag once it's full. It helps avoid exposure to allergens, but it also results in recurring costs and more of an impact on landfill, even though Miele's bags are made of 80% recycled material. A four-pack of Guard M1 vacuum bags cost $28.99 at Miele USA and £13.99 at Miele UK.

What Is the Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL Like to Use?

The Parquet Twister XL is so good. It easily maneuvers and swivels as a mop pad does, making it easier to cover more ground at once. It glides smoothly, too.

This also means it is safe on delicate surfaces, like when cleaning hardwood or tile, which appears to be the main USP here. It's designed for 'large hard floors' and gentle cleaning, and after having tested it out, Miele nailed it.

I wanted to see whether these floorheads could still be used on rugs and carpets, so that homes with some soft flooring could still make use of this high-powered vacuum. I delve more deeply into the results below, but although it's hard to push the floorhead across soft flooring – it is as if you're scrubbing with a brush – it was still surprisingly effective.

I like that Miele make button a foot button, as it avoids you having to reach down to the canister every time you need to turn it off or change a setting. It also isn't a given – the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead has flimsier buttons that could break if kicked too hard (or over time).

The noise levels range from 59.6 to 73.6 decibels, which is a tad quieter than other vacuums but still relatively standard (likely owed to the lack of a spinning brushroll).

Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL: Vacuum Tests

I tested the Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL on hard floors using our standardized vacuum tests on a half cup of flour and sugar (to test for dust and fine debris) and a cup of cereal and lentils (pantry test for medium-large debris).

Great performance on the flour and sugar test. Nothing was left behind after one pass with the regular floorhead. Then, using the Parquet Twister XL, the brushes pushed a little around, but there are gaps between them, so it just involved going over the patch again to make sure everything was picked up.

I ended up running the pantry test twice, because in my first attempt, the floorhead pushed the cereal forward rather than sucking it up. I expected this as the floorhead's opening is narrow and there's no roller to crush down the food pieces, so I removed the floorhead. Then, the suction was powerful enough to vacuum everything up – pieces were being collected from 1-2 inches away.

My testing unit didn't come with the attachments, but I've used all three – the upholstery nozzle, crevice tool, and dusting brush – in four other Miele vacuums, and found them to work really well. As Miele vacuums have such strong suction (the Guard M1 Parquet XL included), these small cleaning tasks are made quick.

Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL: Pet Hair Tests

I tested the Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL at a local cat and dog shelter, Bristol ARC. This is how we gather proven results on real fur to hunt down the best vacuums for pet hair, while also seeing how the vacuum can handle a busy, messy environment with high foot (and paw) traffic.

Super satisfying performance. Everything was picked up instantly, and when using the Parquet Twister XL it felt as if I was simply moving a cushioned pad across the floor.

I also tried using the Guard M1 Parquet XL on carpet, just to see if it does anything, and with my expectations managed as it is designed as a hard floor vacuum.

Movement was limited, I was mostly only able to slowly pull it backwards, but with enough force I pushed it back and forth and achieved a pretty decent clean by doing so. Every patch I vacuumed had no hair or debris left behind, but I wouldn't quite recommend it as one of the best carpet vacuums, as mess was caught in the floorhead pads:

Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL: Setup and Maintenance

While paying for Miele HyClean Air CO vacuum bags is an extra step compared to bagless vacuum cleaners, it means that there's very little to do in terms of setting up and maintaining the vacuum.

There's no dustbin to empty, and as the bag is self-contained, some of the internal parts aren't being worn as much as they would be in a bagless vacuum. All that'll be required is to keep the floorheads clean, or remove canister blockages with a quarter if you ever need to.

The only setup involved is to attach the hose, handle, and floorhead together; then it's ready to use.

How Does the Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL Compare?

The Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL costs $599 at Miele USA and £349 at Miele UK. For a hard floor vacuum, that's pretty expensive – which is my biggest criticism of this model. It vacuums hard floors well, undoubtedly, but you can find other vacuums for a lot less that achieve a similar clean.

The Bissell Hard Floor Expert, costing $239.99 at Bissell, is the closest competitor we've tested. Like the Miele, it's a canister vacuum that's easy to use, has a large dust capacity, and vacuums hard floors well, but it's bagless and doesn't come with those recurring costs.

Alternatively, budget cordless sticks are great options for hard floors. They're lightweight and more convenient, while taking up less space, and without having your cleaning sessions restricted by a power cord.

The Dreame R20, often on offer for around $147.99 at Dreame, is a strong choice, with more powerful suction than other vacuums at that price point. Plus, it has a soft roller that helps to more effectively capture super-fine particles such as dust and allergens.

How I Tested the Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL

I tested the Miele Guard M1 Parquet XL using our usual vacuum testing methodology, consisting of standardized tests across flour and sugar, cereal and lentils, and pet hair.

But as this is a hard floor vacuum, I only ran the tests on hard floors (wood and linoleum), but I tested the suitability for carpet at the pet shelter.

I also assess the usability of all the features, and compare the price to similar models we've tested.

For more floorcare inspiration, see our tested guides of the best Dyson alternatives and the best robot vacuums.

I recently saw a viral video on TikTok of someone vacuuming a rug as slowly as possible, after they heard that the cleaning trend reveals how much secret dust you can pull up by doing so.

As Homes & Gardens' resident professional vacuum tester, I had to try it out for myself, and the results echoed what I've already seen in years of testing: Vacuuming with fast strokes is nowhere near as effective as taking your time.

Before trying this trend, I hadn't vacuumed this slowly, and luckily, I have one of the best vacuums to try it out with: The Dyson V15 Detect.

This clever Dyson counts how many particles you've picked up during your cleaning sessions, up to the millions, so I was able to see whether this technique is as effective as it seems. Spoiler alert: It's astounding.

What Is the Trending 'Slow Vacuuming' Method?

TikTok user @itsmorganstarr revealed how simple the 'Slow Vacuuming' method is: Just vacuum your rug or carpet as slowly as possible. Doing so allows the bristles to repeatedly agitate the same carpet fibers, dislodging the dust, dirt, and household debris that is buried deep within.

Leaving dust and other household allergens on floors with fast strokes often leads to sneezing, dryness, and poorer health for anybody who suffers from allergies (I know this first-hand), so learning how to banish them from carpets is key.

And if successful, this could demonstrate that even weaker vacuums can still be your best carpet vacuum, and maybe you don't have to fork out $500+ on those with the most powerful suction, after all.

So, I set my Dyson V15 Detect to work on my favorite IKEA rug, and cleaned it slower than I've ever done in my life, to find out how effective slow vacuuming is.

Slow Vacuuming: The Results

As you can see, the beauty of using this smart Dyson vacuum is that I could see precisely how much debris was being picked up as I cleaned.

I was truly amazed at the numbers, given that it had only been a week since the rug was last vacuumed. I wasn't expecting that particle number to climb so rapidly, especially while the vacuum was barely moving. Usually, the cordless vacuum needs to travel across a long stretch of floor for the number to rise that sharply.

By the end of it, I'd reached more than 300 million sucked-up particles, and the dustbin had been filled with so much more dust than I could have possibly thought was there.

To put this into perspective, after the usual weekly deep clean of my entire bedroom – the biggest room in the house – I typically reach around 100-200 million particles. So, to have picked up more than that from one 6.6' x 4.1' rug, is astounding.

Sure, it takes a little longer, but the results speak for themselves. My Dyson also revealed that if I just keep the vacuum still, it can take as long as 10 seconds for it to stop collecting new dust, showing just how deeply embedded it can be when it comes to soft flooring.

I've just found my favorite new way to deep clean my rug that requires hardly any extra effort, just a few more seconds of my time.

What the Success of Slow Vacuuming Reveals

It should come as no surprise that dust, dirt, and other household mess can settle deep into carpets and soft flooring, but vacuuming slowly has revealed just how deep it goes, and what you need to do to get it out.

If you've ever found that your allergy symptoms persist after vacuuming, and you've wondered whether it's the fault of your vacuum, you may find some reassurance in the fact that, actually, all you need to do is vacuum more slowly.

What's more, letting dust build up can actually damage and deteriorate the quality of soft flooring. So if your cleaning sessions are leaving lots behind, that doesn't bode too well for the lifespan of your precious rugs and carpets, and you can potentially save money down the line by cleaning more attentively.

And personally, I'm thrilled to discover how much of a difference this technique achieves. I vacuum for a living, and I'm always on the lookout for ways to make affordable vacuums more effective. My rugs and carpets will be cleaner than ever, and my allergies and asthma triggers will be quashed even more.

What to Shop

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, discover how the best robot vacuums will keep your home clean for you, with strong winners from our weeks-long testing sessions.

When everyone's home for Christmas, and with all the food, unwrapped presents, and pet hair contributing to more mess, sometimes we're faced with a stark reminder: Our vacuum cleaner can no longer keep up like it used to.

If you're finding missed patches on the floor, or that you're having to go over and over the same area to vacuum up the dirt, I've got the fix for you. The Shark POWERDETECT Upright, discounted by $200 right now, cleared all dust, dirt, and hair in a single pass on test.

It's been one of the best vacuums we've tested for some time now, and with this discount, you can finally say goodbye to your suction-less old appliance.

The Shark POWERDETECT Upright Is the Cleaning Upgrade That Will Keep Up With Holiday Hosting

I'll keep this simple: The Shark POWERDETECT Upright is one of the most powerful vacuum cleaners we've tested. It banishes pet hair from thick carpets, effortlessly picks up mud and dirt, and removes dust and other household allergens like it's nothing.

After vacuuming in a room that was ridden with cat hair, tester James Holland wrote, 'With one pass, the Shark POWERDETECT had basically picked up every visible piece of hair (as well as litter near the litter box) from the carpet, filling the dust bin with an amount of hair equal to a second cat.'

This, along with the fact that its rollers never tangle with hair, is why this is our all-time best vacuum for pet hair. It also has an odor-neutralizer to combat pet smells, which is so useful this time of year when everyone's at home and sharing the space together.

Any vacuum that can banish fur is a robust all-rounder. I've tested 31 vacuums at this point, most of them in a local pet shelter, and fur is absolutely the most difficult thing for a vacuum to clean.

So, it makes complete sense that the Shark POWERDETECT Upright also excels when cleaning every other mess. 'It’s able to suck everything up in its path efficiently and proficiently, no matter the debris. And, it’s equally capable regardless of the surface I used it on,' James wrote in his review.

Whether you're looking for your next best carpet vacuum or a model that can make hard floors immaculate – or both – the POWERDETECT Upright has you covered. And as it can handle everything from fine material to large debris, you won't be struggling next time you're hosting the family.

It's one of the top three vacuum cleaners we've ever tested, alongside the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog and the Dyson V15 Detect, but both of these models are $100s more expensive.

Instead, the Shark POWERDETECT Upright is the ideal balance of cleaning power and affordability, where you can run it along the floor with the comfort that nothing's being left behind.

Read more in our five-star Shark POWERDETECT Upright review.

More to Shop

The Shark POWERDETECT isn't the only vacuum we've tested that will keep up with the mess and woes of hosting. Here are a few more of our best-reviewed picks.

All prices correct at time of publication.

Next, find out how to choose the right vacuum cleaner for your home.

I've tested a few Dreame products at this point – including three of their vacuum-mop combos – and I've recommended them plenty for people who want to cut their floorcare time in half.

The Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex is their latest to date, and the first to introduce dry vacuuming alongside the usual wet floor cleaning, promising to be the full package in cleaning every surface across your home.

So, I put it through its paces in our dedicated test center to see whether it's worth its $799.99 price tag as one of the best vacuum-mop combos.

My One-Minute Verdict

The Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex demonstrated some of the strongest hard floor cleaning I've seen in a vacuum-mop combo so far. Whether it was sucking up all traces of a large egg and shell pieces, milk and cereal, or humble ketchup and mustard stains, the mess was vacuumed in one or two passes.

But the dry carpet vacuuming – the major USP of this wet floor cleaner – was a bit of a let-down. It had no issues vacuuming large food pieces, but a lot of fine debris was left between the carpet fibers, showing that dust and dead skin would likely remain if you were to use this as your main carpet vacuum.

The self-cleaning and self-drying are easy, and you can choose between a quick clean or a long, 30-minute one. The vacuum-mop also automatically detects how dirty your floors are and adjusts power accordingly, and it can lie completely flat to reach under furniture.

But the carpet cleaning functionality makes this model more expensive, and as that element of performance was not the most effective during my extensive tests, I would recommend going for the cheaper Dreame H14 Pro and simply pairing it with your best vacuum for carpet. It cleans hard floors just as well (if not better), and costs $100s less.

If, however, you would like a two-in-one for a second home or to have on hand for an upper floor of your home, this is a great purchase.

Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex: Specifications

Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex: Setup

The only setup involved was to slot the handle into the vacuum, then fully charge it. My unit started on 33% and took just under two hours to reach 100% battery.

The Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex includes two rollers (one for carpets and one for hard floors), a charging dock, cleaning solution, a spare filter, and a cleaning brush. Everything was heavily plastic wrapped – not the most sustainable design choice – but it meant that every part's finish was unscratched.

Dreame designs their products with care for a premium feel, so it makes sense that they'd want to protect them from damage during transit.

Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex: Design and Features

What makes the H15 Pro CarpetFlex a rare type of vacuum-mop combo is that it can wet vacuum hard floors and dry vacuum carpets. I've seen this before in the Bissell CrossWave OmniForce Edge, but that's only designed for area rugs, and on test, it didn't prove to be too useful as there was only one roller, so you could only tackle rugs when they're dry.

Instead, the Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex has two rollers, one for dry vacuuming carpets and one for wet vacuuming hard floors. It makes sense this way and means you're not having to clean in a specific order.

There are three cleaning modes: Smart, turbo, and quiet. Smart mode adjusts the suction (and moisture, if using) to however dirty the floors are, while turbo and quiet are maximum and minimum power, respectively.

Everything goes into the same dirty tank, so while this vacuum doesn't have a HEPA filter, dust becomes wet debris once it mixes with the dirty liquid. That stops it from circulating into the air and being re-released into your home (then needing the best air purifiers to capture it).

One feature I'd never seen before is the large debris toggle. It's a nice touch to make sure that larger pieces can get sucked up – say, if there's a cereal spillage – but when there are no big pieces, the roller can spin closer to the ground and wash more thoroughly.

The Dreame H15 Pro Heat (that I tested alongside the CarpetFlex) has a deodorizer cartridge that captures some of the smells from the dirty tank, but there wasn't one in the CarpetFlex.

What Is the Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex Like to Use?

The Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex is a straightforward appliance to use. It glides along floors in a satisfying motion, has a handy LED screen that shows cleaning modes and dirt levels, and is painless to fill up and empty.

Being able to swap out the rollers is a welcome feature, and means I could pass onto different surfaces as and when I need to. Swapping out is a quick motion, as seen above, although the vacuum has to be tilted backwards, which risks dirty liquid coming out of the sides.

I haven't yet experienced this while swapping rollers, but sometimes there's a spillage when moving the vacuum after cleaning. This isn't uncommon for vacuum-mops – pretty much every model I've tested from Dreame, Tineco, and Bissell has had some leakage – but I worry about having to tilt it every time the rollers swap, especially as it'll occasionally be over carpet.

But in fairness, with these cleaners, you should always be dry vacuuming first. Even the vacuum's wheels can become a bit wet after cleaning, and rolling liquid onto carpets can lead to smells, mold growth, and carpet damage.

The LED screen is super useful, clear, and quick to understand. It tells you if there are blockages, if a roller needs cleaning, and if a tank needs emptying or refilling, and it does so using voice prompts, too, but you can turn these off. I find them a bit annoying personally, but they can be useful.

Filling the water tank involves pouring in water and half a bottle cap of cleaning solution. Emptying it is painless, with liquid that pours down the drain, and a debris catcher that you can shake out into the trash, then rinse.

And when it comes to cleaning the roller, the charging base does all the work. It washes the roller at 212°F then dries it at 194°F, preventing odors and bacteria from building up, and making sure it stays in a healthy condition for longer.

It's easy – just place the vacuum onto the base, press the self-cleaning button at the top of the vacuum, and choose between 'normal' and 'deep'. Deep uses hot water and takes longer (about 30 minutes), while normal is ideal if you want a quick 5-10 minute clean to refresh it.

Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex: Cleaning Tests

To test the vacuum-mop combo's ability to clean messes and stains of different consistencies, with our pantry tests. These include:

• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 2 tablespoons lumpy tomato and veg pasta sauce
• 1 egg, dropped from 5 feet
• 1 cup of cereal and milk

Overall, this is a great cleaner, getting rid of every mess swiftly. It seems as though it uses more water than others I've tested – on turbo mode, it took around 10 minutes for the floors to dry, compared to around 3-6 minutes for the Tineco Floor One Stretch S6 and Dreame H14 Pro.

The ketchup and mustard stains were vacuumed in two passes. No smearing, no instant staining of the roller. The vegetable pasta sauce (in the video above) was cleaned almost in one, but a tiny veg chunk took a few goes to vacuum up.

As it leaves the floors free of residue, and can vacuum up the oily and stain-inducing substances in ketchup and mustard, this is a great choice for cleaning your kitchen in a pinch. Especially if the family is constantly spilling things.

It vacuumed the broken egg with no issues at all. The mix of gel-like egg and large shell pieces makes this one of the toughest tests for our best vacuums, so it was great to see everything but one large piece of shell cleaned without fuss. Other vacuum-mops like the Dyson WashG1 couldn't handle this test, and instead ended up leaking all over the floor.

And finally, the flawless performance on the cereal test, captured in the video above, demonstrated how well-equipped the H15 Pro CarpetFlex is for major spillages – like whole bowls of food falling onto the floor. It's a very impressive performance.

Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex: Carpet Tests

As this is somewhat of a carpet vacuum, I tested it using a half cup of flour and sugar, then a half cup of cereal. I also used it to vacuum crumbs and the daily mess that was already on the carpet to see how it fared.

It vacuumed up the cereal with no issues at all, showing that it's great on larger pieces like food crumbs or pet kibble. But the flour test demonstrated that its suction isn't very powerful.

The vacuuming performance is similar to what you'd find in a budget cordless stick, like the Ultenic U16 Flex, which shouldn't really be used on carpets. Flour is a fantastic proxy test for dust and dead skin, so if you think about how many household allergens are inside our carpets, leaving that much behind would be detrimental to your health and carpets.

So, if your home has a lot of carpets, I don't recommend completely replacing your main vacuum with this.

It is, however, ample if you have some thin area rugs and carpets, and would like to be able to clean them with the same device between getting your main vacuum out. But to actually deep clean carpets, you need much higher suction than this, like one of the best vacuums for carpets from our tests.

How Does the Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex Compare?

The Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex costs $799.99 at Dreame at full price, and is often discounted to $499.99-$649.99. That makes it one of the most expensive vacuum-mop combos we've tested, alongside the Dreame H15 Pro Heat that costs $100 more.

The 15 Pro Heat is a similar model, but it doesn't offer carpet cleaning. Instead, it can hot water mop, and I found this to be effective at removing the more stubborn stains. But when it came to general cleaning, the H15 Pro CarpetFlex performed notably better and was able to vacuum different-sized debris without leaving as much behind.

But our favorite model on test is the Dreame H14 Pro. It's the predecessor to these two H15 Pro vacuums, making it around $200 cheaper, but it's actually a better cleaner. It didn't leave a mess behind and left the floors drier faster, but it doesn't have the special carpet or hot water cleaning modes.

Alternatively, the Bissell CrossWave OmniForce Edge is the most like-for-like compared to the H15 Pro CarpetFlex, as it can clean area rugs. Its suction on carpet was better, but its one roller meant that you're limited in when you can clean. It also only costs $299-$399, making it a great alternative if you're on a budget.

How I Tested the Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex

I tested the Dreame H15 Pro CarpetFlex in our dedicated test center on linoleum and wooden floors. I ran five standardized tests across wet substances (outlined above) to assess their ability to vacuum different messes and clear stains with different properties.

I also tested its ability to vacuum carpet using flour, sugar, and lentils – from our robust vacuum testing process – to see how well it can remove dust and dirt from within carpet fibers.

Cleaning aside, I evaluated how easy it is to move and use, how safe it is on delicate surfaces, how painless it is to refill and empty, and whether the smart features are actually useful.

Next, see why I rate the best robot vacuums and the best vacuums for pet hair so highly after our testing sessions.

The Dreame team has steadily been releasing floorcare innovations since its relatively recent inception, spanning vacuum-mop combos and robot vacuums that have introduced firsts to their respective markets.

The Dreame H15 Pro Heat is one of the brand's latest vacuum-mop combos, and the first to have hot water cleaning and the AI DescendReach robotic arm for edge cleaning.

As their previous model has topped our best vacuum-mop combos guide for some time now, I was excited to test the new and improved version. Here's what I learned after rigorously testing.

My One-Minute Verdict

The Dreame H15 Pro Heat introduces some new features, notably an AI robotic arm and hot water cleaning, but they work to varying effects. The AI robotic arm certainly cleans edges more effectively than vacuum-mop combos without it, but the 'AI' software isn't quite there, as it drops randomly and often, stopping the vacuum from gliding and getting in the way when vacuuming solids.

But generally, this is a strong cleaner that can deep clean your floors in two or three passes, and leave them dry within 3-10 minutes (depending on cleaning mode). It automatically detects dirt and can adjust on the fly, and it self-cleans and self-dries to avoid bacteria build-up.

But it costs $899.99 at full price (though it is sometimes discounted to around $599.99), and honestly, having tested its predecessor, the Dreame H14 Pro cleans faster, is easier to use, and costs just $399.99 at Dreame.

My advice: Unless you specifically need hot water cleaning for old, stubborn stains and frequently heavily-soiled floors, go for the H14 Pro. It's better and cheaper.

Dreame H15 Pro Heat: Specifications

Dreame H15 Pro Heat: Setup

The instructions to assemble the Dreame H15 Pro Heat were helpfully printed on the packaging. All that's involved is slotting the handle into the vacuum, then inserting the deodorizer into the dirty water tank.

After that, I charged it to full before using it (this is always recommended with new appliances to promote and preserve battery health), which took around two hours to go from 49% to 100%.

I always like to see brands' efforts to keep packaging sustainable (the best Dyson vacuums always do well here), so it's a shame how much excessive plastic was used in the Dreame. Everything was plastic wrapped, then underneath the plastic was plastic film stuck to almost every surface. I know this prevents scratching, but cardboard molds would have been a more eco-conscious alternative.

There's the option to connect to the Dreamehome app so you can set your own moisture and suction levels for the 'Custom' cleaning mode, but the app wouldn't let me connect after repeated attempts. Without it, Custom mode is automatically set as Turbo mode, with maximum suction and moisture (but not hot water).

Dreame H15 Pro Heat: Design and Features

A major upgrade compared to the Dreame H14 Pro (our long-time best vacuum for wet floor cleaning) is hot water cleaning. It can heat water to 185°F, which helps break down bacteria and really stubborn stains that cold or room temperature water can't clean as effectively.

When you select hot water mode, it takes under a minute for the water to heat up, and the percentage is shown on the screen as it quickly rises (as seen in the photo above).

In this mode, the runtime is cut down to 20 minutes, compared to a maximum of 72 minutes when using less intensive settings. When I use vacuum-mop combos at home, I tend to keep it on auto as it detects the dirt levels and adjusts by itself (it's called 'Smart' mode on the Dreame H15 Pro Heat), but as I often have to switch to turbo mode when cleaning more stubborn stains, having a heated setting takes things up a notch.

Suction mode doesn't refresh the roller with any moisture, useful at the end of a clean to remove that last bit of moisture (it dries by itself in 3-5 minutes, anyway). Custom mode is useful if you prefer a specific moisture-to-suction ratio – like if you're cleaning hardwood floors or other delicate surfaces and want to limit moisture exposure, for example.

Another key upgrade from Dreame is the introduction of 'AI' cleaning and drying, including a robotic arm that lowers when the vacuum nears a wall edge to catch the remaining bits of dirt that the roller can't reach. I go into how well this works in more detail below, but I'm not convinced that the AI mentioned has any sophisticated learning capabilities.

It's easy for tech brands to insert the term 'AI' when describing any smart or innovative feature, but often it's just a bit of coding, rather than software that is actually learning and adapting. Dreame has also mentioned how the self-drying function is 'AI Drying', but it seems to take a standard 30 minutes every time. Really, using innovative AI at home involves systems that respond and adapt to our behavior and improve user experience.

Regardless, it's great that the dock has self-cleaning and self-drying. It's essential to avoid mold growth, bacteria, and nasty smells from emanating from the roller. It washes the roller at 212°F, taking around five minutes, and dries the roller at 194°F, taking around 30 minutes.

For comparison, one of our best robot vacuums from eufy takes up to three hours on average to self-dry its roller, so Dreame's timing on this feature is fast.

What Is the Dreame H15 Pro Heat Like to Use?

I was excited to try out the Dreame H15 Pro Heat, as I've enjoyed using the H14 Pro in my home for almost a year. But after using it around the test center and running our standardized cleaning tests, I was disappointed that it wasn't as effortless to use as its predecessor, and didn't clean as effectively.

My main gripe is with the AI robotic arm. It doesn't feel to me that the software is quite ready – it's designed to descend when it reaches wall edges to capture that tricky dirt, but in reality, it drops very frequently and at random points. It's made of a gripped rubber or silicone material, and every time it drops to the floor, it stops you from smoothly gliding the vacuum forward.

This becomes frustrating quickly. Every vacuum-mop combo I've tested, even cheaper picks like the Bissell CrossWave OmniForce Edge have smooth gliding, and it's one of the reasons why they're such satisfying hard floor cleaners.

When the Dreame H15 Pro Heat does get to the edges, it reaches more than what other models can, but it's not a total clean:

And as I found out later in the cleaning tests, the arm being there makes the vacuum less able to vacuum large debris. As a trade-off for cleaning capability, I'm not sure that bit of 'AI' is worth it for most homes.

Otherwise, the Dreame H15 Pro Heat is still a straightforward cleaner. It cleans hard floors quickly, removing new and old stains with a fresh-smelling cleaning solution that's safe across different floor types.

It lies completely flat, making it easy to clean under furniture without having to move heavy items. It's easy to fill up, needing just half a bottle cap of the cleaning solution and water. When you place it on the dock, it cleans and dries itself automatically and prompts you to empty the dirty tank once done.

Unlike the Tineco Floor One Stretch S6, which can be messy to empty, no debris is stuck to the dirty water tank when emptying, and as it has moving parts, you can rinse each surface more carefully.

However, a load of murky water started dripping out when I removed the dirty water tank from the Dreame H14 Pro Vacuum Mop – so it's best to do this step once you're next to wherever you're disposing it.

It also has a deodorizer, which I haven't seen before in these appliances, consisting of a long black cylinder that stays in the dirty water tank. While cleaning, I noticed that I never smelled any nasty odors, but it didn't do much when it came to the heated self-drying, as the roller odors still seeped into the room.

Floor dries within 3-5 mins, or about 8-10 minutes when using the maximum moisture level. I noticed there were occasionally a few tiny puddles, as when you leave it still on the floor, a thin layer of water will seep from the roller. It might be useful to do a suction pass after cleaning to make sure everything’s been removed.

It will alert you if there’s a blockage of any kind, and there’s a brush included to get into the pipes.

Dreame H15 Pro Heat: Cleaning Tests

I tested the Dreame H15 Pro Heat using our standardized vacuum-mop tests, covering substances with different properties and consistencies:

• 1 tablespoon ketchup
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 2 tablespoons lumpy tomato and vegetable pasta sauce
• 1 egg, dropped from 5 feet
• 1 cup of cereal and milk

Overall, the Dreame H15 Pro Heat demonstrated strong performance cleaning these different substances, but I've seen better.

The ketchup and mustard stains were cleaned quickly in one pass, but because of the AI robotic arm, a tiny amount was pushed forward. The roller was great at leaving the floor completely free of residue, though, and it managed to clear the sauce from between the wooden panels.

I found the same with the pasta sauce, too. As it's mostly a wet consistency but with a few lumps, the chunks of vegetables carried the sauce forward, meaning it wasn't all able to be vacuumed in one. When I ran these tests with the older and more affordable Dreame H14 Pro, they were vacuumed in one.

And again, the same results with the egg. The vacuum-mop combo managed the white and yolk, but couldn't really tackle any of the shell pieces as the floorhead opening is quite narrow.

But when vacuuming milk and cereal, the H15 Pro Heat rolled over the pieces and had no issues vacuuming almost all of it in one, highlighting that it does actually have strong suction and a robust roller, but it is let down by the AI robotic arm getting in the way.

How Does the Dreame H15 Pro Heat Compare?

The Dreame H15 Pro Heat is a relatively new release, and $899.99 at Dreame at full price, but I've seen it discounted to as low as $569.99 (as it is at the time of writing).

That's more expensive than the other vacuum-mops we've tested. The Dreame H14 Pro, our best on test, costs around $399.99 at Dreame, depending on promotions. It doesn't have hot water cleaning, so if you often need to clean heavily soiled floors, the H15 Pro Heat is probably still for you. But otherwise, the H14 Pro cleans faster, especially large debris, as there's no robotic arm in the way.

If you're on a tighter budget, the Bissell CrossWave OmniForce Edge costs $299.99 at Bissell. It's not the most efficient, taking a few passes to clean rather than the one or two from Dreame's models, but it also has a dry suction setting for cleaning area rugs.

The Tineco Floor One Stretch S6 and Tineco Floor One S7 Pro are also excellent cleaners, and if your floors are more sensitive to moisture, the Tineco vacuum mops leave surfaces drier a minute or two faster. They cost $379.99 at Tineco and $699 at Tineco, respectively.

How I Tested the Dreame H15 Pro Heat

I tested the Dreame H15 Pro Heat in our dedicated test center, using it to clean the floors generally and assess its maneuverability, its ease of use, and how effective every feature is.

I then run standardized tests that we perform on every vacuum-mop combo to judge them all under the same criteria. These tests span substances with different consistencies and staining properties, with a variety of debris sizes to find out how strong each model's suction and roller is.

I measure noise levels using the Decibel X app, I note the charge time from out of the box to 100%, and I evaluate how easy and mess-free it is to fill and empty the water tanks.

For more floorcare inspiration, see the stand-out vacuums from our tests that top our guides of the best vacuums for pet hair and the best robot vacuums.

There's truly nothing better than a real Christmas tree over the festive season – there's just something about the look and smell that can't be replicated by faux alternatives. But, there is one major drawback – falling pine needles.

Your tree will begin dropping slowly, but soon, there will be a mass of needles pooling under your tree. This will be amplified if you have pets or children and if you have carpeted floors, it can be a real nightmare to capture them all without blocking or damaging your vacuum cleaner.

To simplify the process, we asked professional cleaners for their best cleaning tips. Here's what they said.

How to Easily Get Pine Needles Out of Carpets and Rugs

1. Use a Carpet Scraper and Broom to Loosen Embedded Needles

Cleaning up Christmas tree sap and resin can be tricky, but if there's one thing you really want to avoid doing, it's ruining your best vacuum.

As Dan Fauzi, our home tech editor and resident vacuum expert here at Homes & Gardens, advises, 'For so many reasons, I do not ever recommend vacuuming pine needles.

'Firstly, these sharp materials can scratch up the vacuum's internal parts, which will cause wear and tear over time, similar to vacuuming glass. Pine needles also contain sap, and no moisture should ever go inside a vacuum unless it's designed as a wet/dry vacuum, as it'll clog up the airways and damage the motor.

'And if you think it's fine if the pine needles are dry, this is where it gets the most dangerous, as dry pine needles could ignite next to a warmed-up vacuum motor.'

This is something that Punteha van Terheyden, Head of Solved, learned the hard way.

'A few Christmases ago, I got my first real Christmas tree, and towards the end of its life span, the pines began to drop en masse,' she says. 'I vacuumed the high volume of pine needles with my canister vacuum. That was a big mistake. It entirely clogged up the bendy pipe that attached the floorhead to my canister. I had to stick a broom handle through to break up the clog.'

So, how best to avoid these issues once your Christmas tree starts dying?

For starters, advises Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless, use a carpet scraper to loosen embedded needles.

'Pine needles wedge deep into carpet fibers, especially dense or looped carpets,' she explains. 'Hold the scraper at a low angle and pull toward you in short strokes to lift needles to the surface. I personally love the FURemover Original Rubber Broom available at Amazon, because the rubber edge creates static that pulls debris up, instead of pushing it down.'

Karina advises using firm, short strokes to gather the needles into a pile, then pick them up by hand or with a dustpan.

If you do need to vacuum up any pine needles, ensure the numbers are minimal.

'Reducing the volume of pine needles you're vacuuming is the key, as a high volume will quickly cause a sizeable block due to the intermittent stickiness of the tree sap on some of those needles,' continues Punteha.

And, to avoid any issues altogether, vacuum pro Dan advises simply sweeping them up and disposing of them. The OXO Good Grips Dustpan and Brush Set available at Amazon is ideal for this.

2. Use Packing Tape or a Lint Roller for Delicate Rugs

Some rugs, such as wool runners or flat-weave rugs, aren't suitable for brushing or scraping, says Karina, as aggressive tools can cause pulls. For that reason, doing so is a carpet cleaning mistake to avoid at all costs.

'Instead, tape or a lint roller lifts needles gently,' she adds. 'Press the tape firmly into the fibers and lift straight up; replace tape as it fills. The Scotch-Brite Everyday Clean Lint Roller available at Amazon is safe for delicate fibers, and catches the tiny broken-off tips that other tools leave behind.'

Ultimately, being more gentle and careful on more delicate surfaces, like when cleaning a wool rug, for example, will prevent you from having to fix a ripped carpet.

3. For Shag Rugs, Use a Blow Dryer on Cool

Finally, for cleaning pine needles off of shag rugs without making any rug cleaning mistakes, use a blow dryer set to cool air.

'Shag piles trap needles like Velcro,' explains cleaning pro Karina. 'Airflow helps lift them to the top for easier removal. 'Set the dryer to cool or low, blow across the rug while combing your fingers through the fibers, then use a rubber broom [such as the TidyBliss Broom available at Walmart] or a lint roller.'

The gentle and cool airflow will separate rug fibers without causing heat damage and make those pine needles visible and easier to reach and remove.

How to Reduce Pine Needle Drop

You can also take steps to stop your Christmas tree from shedding needles.

'I keep the tree away from radiators and turn off the one that's closest to it,' says Punteha. 'My tree is in a cast-iron tree stand from Amazon with a water reservoir, and I make sure it is well watered as pine drop increases when the tree is dehydrated.'

You can also cleverly use hairspray to stop needles from dropping. In general, it's crucial to care for your Christmas tree correctly to stop it dying before the big day, going brown in places, becoming smelly, or having lots of pine needles dropping off.

Pine Needle Cleaning Essentials

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Meet the Experts

Additionally, avoiding these real Christmas tree mistakes will keep yours looking fresh and fluffy all season long.

I've been testing vacuum cleaners for nearly three years now. In that time, I've put dozens of vacuums from Miele, Dyson, Shark, and other brands through their paces, and it's been enlightening seeing what these cleaning titans can really offer.

Now, after testing this in a pet shelter, my own home, and our dedicated test center, I have a new favorite: The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog. This incredible vacuum banished every single mess I threw at it with its sheer cleaning power.

So, read on to find out why this is not only the best Miele vacuum, but the most effective vacuum you could bring into your home out of the 86 we've tested at Homes & Gardens.

The One-Minute Summary

The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog is the best vacuum cleaner I've ever used. After testing it in a pet shelter, my own home, and our dedicated test center, the canister vacuum knocked it out of the park in every test, picking up messes of every kind swiftly and effortlessly.

Its suction is incredible, reaching an airflow speed that's 10mph faster than our current top vacuum, the Dyson V15 Detect. This translates to efficient pulling up of dust, dirt, and hair – even from thick rugs and carpets – and a handheld nozzle that can dust hard surfaces better than a cloth.

It's also an absolute breeze to use, with thoughtful features like built-in attachment storage, one-handed cleaning, and being able to dock the floorhead into the canister with ease.

Its only downsides are the price – a whopping $899 in the US (but only £399 in the UK) – and the fact that hair wraps around the brushroll. The latter can be solved by a simple pair of scissors or seam ripper, but the price can naturally put people off, so if you're in the US, I'd recommend waiting until you find a stellar deal. With Black Friday sales around the corner, a great vacuum deal should be on the horizon any day now.

Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog: Specifications

Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog: Setup

Considering the bulky design of a canister vacuum, I was surprised that the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog arrived in a fairly compact box, similar to boxes I've received some of the best cordless vacuums in.

Assembly is straightforward if you've used this type of vacuum before: Attach the hose to the canister, then attach the handle, wand, and floorhead. If you follow the instructions, it'll take 10 minutes at most.

There's no battery to charge, and the filter and vacuum bag are already in place, so by that point, it's ready to use.

Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog: Design and Features

I may be a vacuum nerd, but after the 31 best vacuums I've reviewed for Homes & Gardens, I can't help but admire the slick designs of Miele canister vacuums. The Guard L1 has a glossy finish with a premium feel, and even the way it wheels around is satisfyingly smooth.

When it comes to suction, the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog outperforms every vacuum we've tested, and this isn't an accolade I give lightly.

I measured its airflow using an anemometer, and it reaches an incredible 33.1 mph at the max suction level. Our current best-on-test, the Dyson V15 Detect, reaches 23mph in comparison (granted, that's a cordless vacuum with a smaller, battery-powered motor).

You can choose between four suction modes, which aren't super clear on the vacuum itself, but are outlined in the operating manual:

1. Curtain symbol (minimum): Curtains, fabric
2. Sofa symbol: Upholstery, cushions
3. Rug symbol: Cut pile carpets, rugs, and runners
4. Flooring symbol (maximum): Hard floors and heavily soiled carpets and rugs

You set suction levels using the foot buttons on the canister, and there's a light to display which mode is activated.

The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog includes two floorheads – a universal one for all surfaces, and the Miele TurboTeQ, designed specially for carpets and pet hair. It also includes a two-in-one upholstery and crevice tool that's stored inside the canister vacuum itself, as well as a dusting brush that's built into the handle.

As the Miele Guard L1 is designed for pet owners it has advanced filtration, made up of the TU HyClean Air vacuum bags and an Active AirClean exhaust filter. You can buy a set of four vacuum bags and one filter for $28.99 at Miele USA or £13.99 at Miele UK. They're made of 80% recycled materials, too, so although they're disposable, the environmental impact is minimized.

This filtration system is said to achieve 99.99% dust retention – surpassing HEPA standards. Plus, the Active AirClean filter has activated charcoal that deodorizes air after it’s already gone through the vacuum bag, which majorly helps to eliminate odors as I've seen first-hand when testing the best air purifiers. It means the air that comes out of the vacuum smells fresh and free of nasty smells from pets, dust or smoke.

Miele states that the Guard L1 has been durability tested to last for a minimum of 20 years, based on the idea that we spend 37.5 hours vacuuming a year. You can find more information here, but I'll say that I've spoken to dozens of consumers who've also explained that their Miele vacuums have lasted longer than a decade, including our Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden.

What Is the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog Like to Use?

Immediately, it was clear that the Miele Guard L1 had been thoughtfully designed with the user in mind.

The buttons are big, durable, and easy to press with your feet without accidentally hitting the wrong one. The canister can easily be pulled using one hand, freeing up the other for opening doors or picking up objects. And the two-in-one upholstery and crevice tool is stored directly in the canister, so you don't have to carry anything with you while you clean or risk losing it whilst storing separately elsewhere in your home.

This is a major benefit to choosing one of the best canister vacuums over the upright or cordless alternatives. With other vacuums, you have to keep the attachments nearby to be able to swap them out as you clean, but the Miele Guard L1 keeps everything together neatly.

There are two floorheads, but to be honest, the universal one isn't anything special, and during testing, I found that the TurboTeQ performed better every time. And there's no need to swap it out to protect delicate surfaces (like cleaning hardwood or tile floors), as the TurboTeQ is safe to use on these surfaces, too.

I like that the floorhead slots into the back of the canister, allowing for easy vacuum storage without the hose and wand lying loose in a closet. It also means you can quickly prop it up if you need to park it mid-clean, without then having to bend down to pick it up again. This is particularly handy if you are cleaning with health conditions and need to avoid bending down, or have limited mobility in your hips and knees.

I also enjoy how the canister effortlessly glides in every direction. You don't need to turn it so that it faces the direction it's moving; it can go left to right as well as forward and back.

You can easily extend the wand by pushing on the toggle. At its longest, it almost doubles in size, and there are 20 increments before then to achieve your ideal reach. I find this super helpful, especially compared to the best upright vacuums, which have limited reach in comparison. It's great to be able to cover an entire entryway while standing in one spot.

I dive into this in more detail below, but my only gripe with the Guard L1 is that the TurboTeQ floorhead wraps with hair. In the manual, it advises to safely cut it out with scissors, which wasn't the biggest vote of confidence, but I see this as a minor inconvenience offset by the vacuum's outstanding performance...

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

I tested the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog using a half cup of flour and sugar to assess its ability to pick up fine debris and powder. This emulates dust and dead skin while being a great visual test, as we can see where residue is left behind on the floor or in the vacuum's parts.

On hard floors, when using each of the highest three suction levels, the Guard L1 picked up everything in one pass (aside from residue on a couple of sticky spots, so that was my own fault for not mopping). This is one of the best performances I've ever seen on this test, and on max mode, I really felt the high-powered motor with the brushroll spinning immensely fast.

On carpet, using suction modes three and four/max, everything was vacuumed up instantly. The floorhead gripped the carpet without too much suction, and you can adjust it if it does. Incredible performance – at this stage, I already knew it'd rank highly as one of our best vacuums for carpet.

Test 2: Pantry

I also tested the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog using a cup of lentils and cereal (20:80 ratio) to assess its ability to pick up medium and large debris.

The cereal poses the biggest challenge – we don't expect a vacuum to pick up such large pieces (it's great if they do), but it's useful to find out whether the vacuum flings them around, crushes them down, or becomes clogged by the crumbs.

The cereal pieces didn’t fit in the floorhead, but they were pushed forwards rather than being flung across the floor or crushing down and blocking up the airways, as we've seen in other vacuums like the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead.

The suction power on offer here is immense – once I took the floorhead off and turned it to max mode, every small piece got sucked in at a rapid speed.

On carpet, thanks to the grip provided by the soft surface, the cereal pieces were able to be crushed down and sucked up easily, without any clogs or blockages. This is easily one of the best performances I've seen for this test.

Test 3: Pet Hair

I tested the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog in Bristol ARC, a local cat and dog shelter. It's how we test vacuums on real pet hair, as well as being able to clean a building with high foot traffic, that's full of dust, debris, hair, and a variety of surfaces to clean.

On the entrance mat – a rough, bumpy surface that tends to pose the biggest fur challenge for vacuums – the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog cleared most hairs after 2-3 passes, and after a few more runs, barely any visible hairs remained. One of the top three performances I’ve ever seen – similar to the likes of the Dyson V15 Detect and Shark POWERDETECT, our two best vacuums for pet hair.

On low-pile carpet, all strands of pet hair were pulled up in one or two passes, even when they were stubbornly embedded in the fabric.

On laminate flooring, everything was vacuumed instantly. Every time I passed over an area, every strand of fur, small stone, food crumb, or bit of mud was gone once the vacuum had passed just once. The suction was so strong that the laminate flooring was sometimes pulled upwards, but this didn’t affect performance.

It became a bit tougher to push forward when vacuuming a thick rug, but everything was vacuumed swiftly regardless. Even when I vacuumed things I probably shouldn’t have – like a large bit of plastic – the vacuum made a whirring sound for a second while the inlet was blocked, then sucked it up without issues. It was only on this thick rug that I needed two hands to pull the canister.

Overall, I learned that not only is the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog an outstanding pet hair vacuum – potentially one of the best-ever – it also works incredibly effectively on any surface you're cleaning, even upholstery, as I detail below.

Its only downside is that hair gets caught in the brushroll. For a pet hair vacuum, that will undoubtedly become frustrating over time as you'll have to regularly cut hair out of the roller.

However, considering the all-around outstanding performance this vacuum has, I'd say this is a trade-off that's worth it. It can be made easier, too, as a seam ripper is the perfect hair-wrap fix, safer and precise than a pair of scissors. This affordable seam ripper set at Amazon is all you need to make this task a two-minute job every time.

Test 4: Attachments

The staff at the pet shelter asked me to clean the pet hair-ridden sofas in the waiting room, as their vacuum cleaner wasn't able to. It was a stubborn surface, and for each area, I probably went back and forth around four times, but it did vacuum every pet hair, almost.

The remaining strands had to be plucked out using my fingers, and then they could instantly be vacuumed. A motorized attachment would’ve perhaps been more effective, but at least this one doesn’t damage the fabric.

Plus, I'm a big fan of the fact that the attachment is both an upholstery and crevice tool. When you turn it between modes, it blocks the air from coming in the other end, so you’re still getting the full suction.

This is a thoughtful design: You don’t have to carry anything around with you. It is extremely loud using this attachment; however, on max mode, which helps pull fur from stubborn surfaces, it reached as high as 86.8 decibels, similar to the noise of a food blender. Prolonged exposure to this level of noise can be harmful to hearing.

Another nice touch from Miele is that, as you can park the floorhead at the back of the canister, you can quickly detach these parts when you need to do some handheld cleaning:

I also used the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog to dust my bedroom, and it pulled thick layers of dust from every surface I could find, and for the first time, I felt it actually suction itself to hard surfaces like my TV and mirror.

Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog: Care and Maintenance

As the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog is a bagged vacuum, you're not able to quickly empty it after a cleaning. Instead, once the vacuum bag is full, you dispose of it and then swap it out with a new one.

While this comes with recurring costs ($28.99 at Miele USA or £13.99 at Miele UK for a pack of four bags and one filter), it does mean that the vacuum maintenance is incredibly minimal. As dust isn't travelling through loads of internal parts, you don't have to clean out the insides as you would with other vacuums.

It also means that you're not exposed to household allergens, as the bag contains all the dust and hair without you having to release it to empty.

I actually received a faulty sample at first, but doing so meant that I had a good look under the bonnet of the Guard L1, and realized how easy it is to replace the bag and filter.

The vacuum bag slides in and out easily; you don't need to follow any instructions to see how it's done. The same goes for the air filter; it pops out by pulling the tab at the top, then slots in simply by pushing it in.

I also want to commend Miele for their rapid response as soon as I'd informed them that the machine was faulty. First thing the next morning (as I'd let them know in the evening), I had a call from a Miele technician who talked me through troubleshooting steps, then, after realizing the appliance wasn't fixable, they sent a new unit within two days.

This level of customer service is something Miele consumers have reported to me previously, too, so it's not just because I was testing for review purposes.

How Does the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog Compare?

The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog costs $899 at Miele USA, or £399 at Miele UK. Those are wildly different prices, most likely due to Miele being a German brand, and the shipping and tariff prices involved when selling in the US.

$899 is quite expensive, but only $50 more than our current best-on-test, the Dyson V15 Detect. These are two very different vacuums, as the V15 Detect is a lightweight cordless stick that offers greater convenience and takes up less space. But after testing both models myself, I can confirm that the Miele performs better, even if its price is a tad out of reach.

Alternatively, the Shark POWERDETECT Upright is another best-on-test from the 86 vacuums we've tested, costing $449.99 at full price but frequently on offer for around $340-$400. It's less versatile than the Guard L1 Cat & Dog, with a more limited reach and more weight to carry around with you, but it's a self-contained unit that can be easier to store in certain homes, and can come with more attachments depending on the model.

But while the Dyson and Shark may cost less and offer different kinds of convenience, the Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog is the most likely to last for years, potentially up to two decades. Consider it an investment, where all you'll need is to buy vacuum bags a couple of times a year.

The Miele Guard L1 Cat & Dog is undoubtedly one of the most effective vacuum cleaners I've tested, so if you can afford it (and have the space for storing it), I'd look no further.

Next, read through our tried-and-tested guide to the best Dyson alternatives, or find out more about our robust vacuum testing methodology.

If you're hunting down the ideal new vacuum for your home, it's a smart idea to consider a canister vacuum. These versatile cleaners are super easy to use around the house, thanks to the motor being housed in a separate unit that you drag around.

And of course, it's smart to consider a Dyson. Even if the British brand mostly focuses on cordless vacuums now, I was excited to get my hands on their only canister vacuum, the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead.

So, I tested it in a pet shelter, our dedicated test center, and in my own home to find out if it could be your new best vacuum cleaner.

The One-Minute Verdict

The Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead is a strong choice if you're looking for a versatile, easy-to-use vacuum cleaner that performs excellently on hard floors and can vacuum pet hair from thin carpets and upholstery.

It has some of the strongest performance on hard floors like linoleum and hardwood that we've tested, with a brushroll that instantly sucks away all manner of debris. It also performs well on low-pile carpets, but I wouldn't recommend it to anybody with thick carpets, as the brushroll will either slow down or completely stop spinning.

It's intuitive, easy to carry around the house, and maneuverable enough for effortless cleaning of tight spaces and furniture. But if you're looking for something with fewer quirks for a similar price, I'd recommend the cordless Dyson V11 or the corded Shark POWERDETECT Upright.

Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead: Specifications

Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead: Setup

When unboxing the vacuum, I was surprised by the amount of soft plastic packaging. Dyson is one of my favorite brands for shipping their products in sustainable packaging (cardboard and paper), so I wasn't expecting to see everything wrapped in plastic this time around.

Setting it up involves connecting the floorhead, wand, handle, and hose to the vacuum, one by one. Different canister vacuums do this differently, so I looked to the instructions for guidance, only to find them – in my view – confusing and overwhelming.

Maybe others will find this more straightforward, but I had to rely on my experience testing canister vacuums. Luckily, once I got started, it all made sense. If you know what to do for each step, it shouldn't take more than 10 minutes until the vacuum is ready to use.

I tested the UK model of the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead, the Dyson Big Ball Animal 2. It's the same vacuum unit as the US, just with a slightly different set of attachments and a gray and purple colorway (compared to the Turbinehead's yellow colorway).

The main floorhead is the same across both: The turbine head. It's similar to the Motorbar floorhead that we love in the Dyson V15 Detect and other top models, but a little smaller and without the same anti-tangle credentials.

But the UK version comes with an extra attachment that you won't find in the US model: The pneumatic head. I'd never seen a vacuum attachment like it and was excited to try it out – but if you're in the US, don't worry. The turbine head performed better in every way.

What Is the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead Like to Use?

The Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead is the only canister vacuum currently sold by Dyson. The brand now focuses mostly on cordless vacuums and floor cleaners (and they're some of the best in the world...), but the canister vacuum still has its USPs.

It comes down to versatility and maneuverability. As you're only holding the handle and not the entire vacuum unit, it's lightweight to carry, and it means you can get into tight spaces more effectively without maneuvering a big appliance.

But while the best cordless vacuums also share this benefit, they're limited by a battery, while canister vacuums can still house large motors that plug into the mains, leaving them unrestricted when it comes to suction power.

However, the Big Ball Turbinehead boasts 250 air watts of suction, which is the same as our best-on-test cordless vacuum, the Dyson V15 Detect, which costs more than twice as much.

The power and cord pullback buttons on the Turbinehead are on the canister 'ball, positioned so you can press them with your feet, although they seem a little delicate, and I wonder about their durability.

Others, such as the best Miele vacuums, have buttons that depress into the unit, while the Dyson Big Ball has the buttons sticking out, in a way that feels like the right amount of force could snap them off:

The power button also isn't the most responsive, so you have to press it firmly to make sure the vacuum turns on.

I tested the airflow using an anemometer, and it reached 27.2mph. That's higher than every cordless vacuum we've tested with the anemometer, demonstrating how much suction power a corded vacuum can pack.

I also tested the vacuum's noise levels using the Decibel X app, and it averaged 70.4 decibels. Vacuums range from around 60 to 80 decibels, depending on size and suction level, so the Big Ball Turbinehead sits comfortably in the middle.

A design note I love about the Big Ball Turbinehead is the fact that its 'ball' can never be toppled over. It was designed in a spherical shape to make maneuvering around corners easier, but this also allowed Dyson to design an anti-toppling mechanism:

There's also a suction release toggle on the handle. If you vacuum curtains, socks, or other un-vacuumable fabrics, you can quickly pull the toggle and air will flow out of the handle, releasing any suctioned objects.

And generally, like all of our favorite Dysons, it glides across the floor smoothly. I like that the wand extends, almost doubling in size to provide extra reach. My model also came with a wand clip that can store two attachments.

It'll certainly be safe when cleaning hardwood floors, and after testing the cord pullback four times in a row from different angles, I don't worry about it accidentally hitting your hand as it winds up.

Test 1: Flour and Sugar

In our dedicated test center, I tested the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead using a half cup of flour and sugar on linoleum, wooden, and carpet flooring. These substances assess a vacuum's ability to pick up fine debris like dust and dead skin, while being clear visual tests, as we can see where residue is left behind.

On hard floors, everything was cleared in one forward pass, even between the wooden floor panels. That's super impressive – it's not often that a vacuum boasts such strong, neat performance.

On carpets, it took around 4-5 passes using the turbine head, and much longer using the UK-only pneumatic head.

At this stage of the testing, it seemed as if neither of the floorheads was designed for carpets. The pneumatic one doesn’t have any bristles to dig in, while the turbine head doesn’t have any grip adjustment, so it becomes quite hard to push forward, and the brushroll doesn’t spin as quickly. Strong suction is evident, though, as it gripped tightly to the surface.

The only adjustable setting is to stop the brushroll from spinning, which then makes the suction too hard to effectively move across the carpet. I'd look elsewhere for the best vacuums for carpets.

Test 2: Pantry

I also tested the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead on linoleum, wood and carpet using a cup of cereal and green lentils. The lentils are slightly sticky and represent medium-sized debris, while the cereal poses a particular challenge for vacuum cleaners as it tends to be too large to fit into the floorhead. Some vacuums crush it down, some fling it around, and some vacuum it with no issues.

On linoleum and hardwood, the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead crushed some cereal, but most was pushed forward and flung around. It struggled with a large amount of crumbs as it got caught in the small floorhead nozzle. Also, as the dustbin is on a tilt, some food got stuck in the side, and I had to shake it around to dislodge it.

Any sizable food pieces struggle to get sucked up in one attempt, and take a bit of back and forth or placing the floor head directly on top. But once I took the floorhead off, the suction was strong enough to pull up the large pieces from a 1-2 inch distance.

Now, it's normal for even the best vacuums for hard floors to get clogged with high volumes of food crumbs. The real test is in the vacuum's ability to deal with that mess afterwards, and whether the suction is strong enough to vacuum large pieces without the floorhead. The Big Ball Turbinehead passed this test.

On the carpet, it took a while. There were lots of flinging crumbs around, or getting caught in the floorhead and the wand. Neither the turbine nor pneumatic heads were able to properly pick up big pieces from the carpet.

Also, the inlet to the dustbin was clogged with food – not completely abnormal with a mess of this volume – but I expected better from a corded Dyson. Cordless models like the Dyson V11 performed much better, without these issues.

Test 3: Pet Hair

To see if the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead could be one of the best vacuums for pet hair, I tested it in a local cat and dog shelter on hard floors, entrance mats, low-to-high-pile carpets, thick rugs, and upholstery.

The entrance mat is the toughest challenge for a vacuum with its bumpy, high-friction surface. The Big Ball Turbinehead did a really solid clean in about two passes, followed by a few strokes to get the rest of it. That's certainly better than average, but not as effective as what we've seen with other models like the Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog.

A few hairs remained, but that’s expected with this surface. And unlike the carpet tests above, the brushroll actually spun on this mat, likely because of the bumpy texture providing more breathing room.

The results were instant when vacuuming pet hair from hard floors. As soon as the floorhead neared any mess – whether pet hair, leaves, or dust – it pulled it in, sometimes from about half an inch away.

The long wand is great for reaching far from where you’re standing, providing more reach compared to other vacuums. The floorhead also vacuums right up to the edges without having to approach them at annoying angles.

On low-pile carpet, it was great, and again, the brushroll had no issues spinning at full speed. Everything was picked up instantly, and I could see great clumps of pet hair filling up the dustbin – more than I could see on the floor.

It grips low-pile carpet nicely, and the low profile of the floorhead lets it slide under furniture and doorstops. Its small shape also makes it easy to maneuver when cleaning stairs:

While the brushroll had no issues spinning properly on the entrance mat and thin carpet, it stopped spinning on the pet shelter's thick rugs, just as it did at the test center.

When you move it forward, it starts spinning again, but you can feel that it’s not as fast, and it makes a noise as if it’s struggling. More debris was left over when vacuuming this surface than on hard floors and low-pile carpet. If your home has lots of carpets or thick rugs, I'd look elsewhere, such as the Shark POWERDETECT Upright.

After a few hours of vacuuming at the pet shelter, the dustbin was almost filled with fur, but there were a few wrapped hairs in the brushroll, showing that it isn't completely anti-tangle:

Test 4: Attachments

The upholstery tool doesn't tend to be the strongest attachment for a vacuum cleaner, but the Big Ball Turbinehead's is incredible. It pulled all manner of dirt, dust, and pet hair from sofas and padded chairs, and would be a perfect tool for keeping your home clean with pets.

My UK model also came with a unique detangling hair attachment. I haven't seen this in any of the Dyson vacuums we've tested, which is surprising considering it's genuinely one of the best pet hair attachments I’ve used on padded upholstery.

Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead: Care and Maintenance

Many canister vacuums are bagged, using disposable vacuum bags that you dispose of once full. But Dyson is the brand that invented the bagless vacuum, so the Big Ball Turbinehead is one of the few canister vacuums that doesn't come with recurring bag costs.

It also has a lifetime washable HEPA filter that won't need replacing so long as you rinse it thoroughly with cold water every 1-2 months.

You detach the dustbin by pressing a button on the top of the canister. Then, hold it over the trash can and push the lever, and the dust will descend. It's quick and painless, with minimal blowback of dust and fine debris.

How Does the Dyson Big Ball Turbinehead Compare?

Costing $379.99 at Dyson (or £299.99 at Dyson UK), the Big Ball Turbinehead is reasonably priced. In fact, it's one of the cheapest vacuums that Dyson sells, with my personal favorite, the Dyson V15 Detect, costing $849.99 at full price.

Our best-on-test canister vacuums so far are the Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog [Amazon] and the Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog [Amazon] – and they both cost around $1,000. They perform better in most aspects (except for being a little less maneuverable), but considering the steep price hike, I'd go for the Dyson over them.

But if you're looking at spending around $300-$400, I'd also recommend considering the Dyson V11 and the Shark POWERDETECT Upright. They both performed outstandingly on our tests, with high suction and easy usage, and can be found for around the same price. They also both work wonders on pet hair, without any hair wrap.

Next, look at the best Dyson alternatives for more affordable floorcare, and see our full deep-dive into how we test vacuums.

Shark has introduced an upgrade to the best-selling PowerDetect 2-in-1 robot vacuum range. The new PowerDetect ThermaCharged promises cleaner floors and fewer odors than previous Shark robots, leaving homes feeling spotless without having to lift a finger.

Now with heated mop washing and drying, the robot cleans floors with a roller that's always freshly sanitized, and banishes the nasty smells that come from leaving it dirty. And for the new release, Shark has discounted the PowerDetect ThermaCharged by a huge $400.

If you've been waiting for the chance to free up hours of your precious free time, this is it. The Shark PowerDetect was already one of our best robot vacuums after testing, and this new model is an upgrade that costs $100s less.

The Shark PowerDetect ThermaCharged Robot Vaccum: Everything You Need to Know

The PowerDetect ThermaCharged upgrades from the previous PowerDetect robot vacuum with heated mop washing and drying, promising cleaner results than all other Shark robots. Washing the mop with 185°F and drying it with 175°F air, it prevents the growth of mold, bacteria, and odors that thrive in cold, wet conditions.

It also comes in a new colorway, in a sleek but subtle black and gold. As a robot vacuum and its station are on show in your home at all times, it's a nice touch to go for one with more of a lush aesthetic.

Otherwise, its specs are the same as the model we tested – and we love how low-maintenance it is. It's designed to do as much of the work as possible, emptying its own debris and navigating around obstacles effortlessly.

It can vacuum and mop your floors so thoroughly that it removes old stains from hard floors, and pulls dust and debris from carpets. It even lifts itself over small thresholds and obstacles so that it hardly ever gets stuck, so you can confidently leave it running while you sleep and wake up to spotless floors.

The Shark PowerDetect ThermaCharged Robot Vacuum and Mop is discounted to $799.99 for a limited at SharkNinja.

What to Shop

A robot vacuum handles floorcare for you, freeing up your time while revolutionizing the amount of effort required to maintain our homes. We've tested 82 of the best vacuums and robot vacuums and here a few more of our top recommendations.

All prices were correct at time of publication.

Next, see why we rate the best Dyson alternatives and the best vacuums for pet hair so highly after our test sessions.

Start Your Vacuum Buying Journey

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Vacuum Tips & Care

With four dogs at home, vacuuming can be a real chore to keep on top of. And, with holiday hosting just around the corner, I'm on a mission to get my carpets looking as clean, plush, and fur-free as possible.

That's why I'll be picking up the Uproot Cleaner Pro Pet Hair Removal Tool available at Amazon during the Amazon Prime Big Deal Days, which end today – it's now at its lowest ever price.

Here's why I think it's essential for keeping a clean home when you have pets.

This $15 carpet scraper makes vacuuming pet hair easy

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

To find out whether this Uproot Cleaner Pro Pet Hair Removal Tool available at Amazon really will help to make using my best vacuum for pet hair easier, I spoke to someone who swears by theirs – Punteha van Terheyden, head of Solved here at Homes & Gardens.

She says, 'I have two cats that shed a lot and a house that is 85% carpet. That means vacuuming alone isn't enough, even with the best vacuum. That's why our household has the bi-weekly task of using these nifty carpet rakes to pull up dust, dander, and deeply embedded fur from our carpets,' which also has the added benefit of being a brilliant cleaning tip for those with pet dander allergies.

'As I have to consider my chronic pain when cleaning, and limited on mobility,' Punteha continues, 'my husband lends a hand for this task, but it's still doable in short bursts, even if you are in pain, fatigued, or injured.

'Stick with smaller zones to keep the manual strain low, and the impact on your carpets high. Every time we use these, it pulls up a shocking amount of hair and dust, and makes our carpets look brand new.'

If that's not convincing enough, this clever carpet scraper removes even the most embedded of dander, helping to make carpet fluffy again, and requires no batteries, sticky rolls, or vacuum bags, helping you to be more sustainable at home and to save money at the same time.

It's not just suitable for carpets, either. You can also use this cleaning tool on all non-knit fabrics, from upholstered couches and chairs, to your clothes, and to make washing dog beds fair easier, too.

Plus, it's quick, easy, and, dare we say it, fun to use.

Like Punteha, almost 20,000 shoppers have also given this carpet scraper a five-star review. As one user, Michelle Kim, puts it, 'Finally, a pet hair remover that actually works!'

They explain, 'As a long-time pet owner, I’ve tried just about every tool on the market to keep my furniture, rugs, and car hair-free, and I can confidently say the Uproot Cleaner Pro is in a league of its own. From the moment I tried it, I could tell it was designed with real pet hair problems in mind.

'The edge design is ingenious as it grabs every strand of hair without damaging fabric or upholstery. I’ve used it on my couch, carpet, pet towers, and even the car seats, and it literally pulls up hair that other brushes and lint rollers leave behind. The ergonomic handle makes repeated use comfortable, and the scraper works quickly without feeling like a chore.

'What sets this apart from other pet hair removers is how thorough it is across different surfaces. Even stubborn hair embedded in rugs comes up effortlessly. Cleanup is also easy. Just run it under water or wipe the collected hair off the scraper.

'If you’ve ever felt frustrated by pet hair that seems impossible to remove, this tool is a game-changer. It’s efficient, versatile, and genuinely saves time, making it one of the best investments for any pet household. Honestly, I wish I’d discovered it years ago!'

So, take it from Punteha and Michelle, or another user who dubs it an 'excellent cleaning tool,' and make this essential for pet owners part of your routine. It will help to banish pet odors, too, and guarantee a fresh and comfortable home that's ideal for both you, your furry friends, and any guests you're hosting over the holidays.

What to shop

We're also big fans of the Mr. Siga lint roller for pet hair removal here at Homes & Gardens.

Alongside the best pet hair vacuums, your floors will never look cleaner.

Anyone with dogs will know how tricky it is to eliminate hair around the home. With four dogs, I know this better than anyone.

Having tried countless vacuums in a quest to find the perfect solution, I'm convinced I've found it – the Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog Vacuum available at Amazon, which is currently on offer for a limited time only.

Here's why I think it's a worthy investment if you've been searching for the best vacuum for pet hair, and well worth the splurge. Get it before this popular appliance sells out!

I swear by this vacuum cleaner with four dogs at home

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

In my opinion, the Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog Bagless Canister Vacuum available at Amazon is the one essential you need if you live with pet. Although admittedly, it doesn't come cheap, which why I am shouting about the current discount.

As one reviewer puts it, 'It's the best vacuum I have ever owned, and also the most expensive I have ever purchased.'

What makes it so good, primarily, is that it's a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, which works to remove and retain 99.999 % of even the smallest of fine dust and allergen particles, ideal for tackling the common allergens that plague our homes, like dander.

In terms of keeping a clean home when you have pets, it also features a 36-foot operating radius, which is handy for long-range cleaning without having to change outlets, while the electrobrush allows for intensive deep cleaning of all carpet types, further helping to banish pet odors all around the home.

It's also fully equipped with three high-quality standard attachments: an integrated upholstery nozzle, crevice nozzle, and dusting brush, and it's bagless, too, for maximum hygiene and easy dust container emptying.

The only thing to note is it's not the lightest option on the market, which is definitely something to keep in mind if you're someone with limited mobility or who relies on adaptive pacing for cleaning, for example.

Head of Solved, Punteha van Terheyden has chronic pain, weak wrists, and mobility issues, and she adds, 'I have this exact model at home and the turbo feature on the floor head alleviates any strain, and the usual wrist strain you'd otherwise feel on a heavier canister vacuum. It's been great with two shedding cats in the house and I highly recommend it. I bought it at full price and it was worth the spend, so this $209 discount makes it a great buy right now ahead of the Amazon Big Deal Days when vacuum deals can sell out quickly.'

All in all, it's the model I always recommend for people looking to reduce pet dander in a bedroom or anywhere else.

What to shop

During shedding season, the eufy robot vacuum was a game-changer for pet hair in Head of Solved Punteha van Terheyden's home and reduced canister vacuum use by 90%.

As if Dyson's vacuums weren't already renowned for their incredible performance and innovative features, their newly announced cordless V16 Piston Animal vacuum promises to take Dyson's cleaning excellence to the next level.

At this year's IFA in Berlin, where tech brands from across the world showcase their latest and greatest developments, I was there to see founder James Dyson unveil the new V16, coming to the US in 2026.

It boasts higher suction power than any of the best Dyson vacuums, which top most of our vacuum guides already. As an expert home tech editor who spends my days testing the latest releases, I love the look of Dyson's new and improved Submarine wet vacuum head, which promises to clean even deeper by washing your floors.

Why I'm excited about the powerful new Dyson V16 Piston Animal

The Dyson V16 Piston Animal marks a shift for Dyson's cordless vacuums, taking its latest release to a whopping 315 air watts of suction – higher than any consumer vacuum out there. In comparison, the Dyson V15 Detect is currently our best-on-test, and that delivers just 250 air watts of suction.

I've written extensively about the Dyson V15 Detect and other Dyson vacuums, which repeatedly outperform all of the best vacuum cleaners we've tested, so I'm thrilled to see our favorite vacuum brand up its spec in this way.

The V16 Piston Animal also has a new conical floorhead that promises long hair pickup with no tangling. As Dyson's vacuums are already some of our best vacuums for pet hair, I'm intrigued to see how they've improved performance in this area.

Keeping a home clean with pets, especially furry ones, is no easy task, so any added power for clearing hair from carpets will land well, in my view.

What's more, the Dyson V16 has the same smart features that I adore in Dyson's Detect vacuums (such as the Dyson V12 Detect Slim and the Dyson Gen5detect). A green laser reveals dust that the naked eye can't usually spot, and using floor sensors, the vacuum knows the floor type you're vacuuming and how dirty each area is to automatically adjust the suction and brushroll speed.

This means you don't have to worry about changing the settings yourself. You can pass from hard floors to carpet, and these Dysons know the right level of cleaning power needed, and will preserve the battery life on easier surfaces, including when cleaning hardwood floors.

Less frequent emptying

Another new and exciting feature is the 'CleanCompaktor' dustbin that compresses dust as it's collected, so you don't have to empty it for up to 30 days. Frequent emptying is one of the biggest gripes with the best cordless vacuums, and I'm intrigued to find out if this real-world dust compression comes with a loss of suction as the dustbin fills, or if Dyson's engineers have finally found a way to solve this issue.

In line with the floorcare industry's growing trend towards complete cleaning solutions – as seen in the Roborock 4-in-1 appliance announced at IFA or the best robot vacuums that vacuum, mop, and clean themselves for you – the Dyson V16 Piston Animal has the option for a Submarine floorhead and a self-cleaning dock.

The Submarine floorhead is an upgrade from the one used in the Dyson V15s Detect Submarine, using a motorised, microfiber roller to wash, mop, and remove stains from your floors.

The self-emptying dock has been a key feature in many of the best Shark vacuums, so it's great to see Dyson introduce this as a way to save time and store the vacuum more neatly.

Suffice to say, I was excited about what I heard as part of an early press cohort on this Dyson update. As someone who tests vacuums for a living, this is one of the most significant announcements from a floorcare brand that we've seen in some time and I can't wait to get my hands on the V16 and put it to the test.

The Dyson V16 Piston Animal is available in the UK for £749.99 at Dyson and across Europe for 849€, and will be available in the US in 2026.

What to shop

While the Dyson V16 Piston Animal is only available in select countries, here are some other top-rated vacuum recommendations from our rigorous testing sessions.

If you're considering shopping for a new Dyson now but perhaps want to wait for the V16 Piston Animal, remember: You can trade-in your appliance to get money off an upgrade, direct at Dyson.

All prices were correct at time of publication.

For more floorcare inspiration, check out our guides to the best Miele vacuums and the essential cleaning tools every household should have.

When the Dyson V8 was released back in 2016, it reimagined the cordless vacuum design into what it is today.

James Dyson shared this sentiment at IFA in Berlin on Thursday when announcing the V8's upgrade: The Dyson V8 Cyclone. It combines the V8 with Dyson's latest tech for a cordless vacuum that cleans better, has a longer runtime, and even has a self-emptying dock.

It was already one of the best Dyson vacuums, but this new model, set to be released next year, will make cleaning even easier and cheaper.

Why I'm excited about the new Dyson V8 Cyclone

The Dyson V8 Cyclone brings a suite of upgrades compared to the previous model, to make cleaning more effective without sacrificing on weight or ease of use. In my view, the most significant is the suction power increase, going from 115 air watts to 150.

For reference, that's the same as the advanced (and expensive) Dyson V12 Detect Slim – which on test, had no issues vacuuming hair, dust or large debris from any surface. It's one of the best cordless vacuums we've ever tested.

Plus, like Dyson's newer vacuums, the V8 Cyclone will have three suction modes: Eco, Medium and Boost. As someone who's tested 28 vacuum cleaners, I'm a big fan of this option in cordless vacuums, as it gives you the oomph necessary to deep clean carpets when needed, while giving you the option for lower suction on easier surfaces, like when cleaning hardwood floors, to preserve vital battery life.

Runtime on the latest upgrade has also been extended from 40 minutes to 60, and it's now powered using a single button rather than a trigger to reduce hand strain while cleaning. There's also the option of a self-empty dock that charges and cleans the vacuum between uses – a feature we love in other cordless vacuums such as the Shark PowerDetect Cordless and the Tineco Pure One Station.

The Dyson V8 has long been our top pick for the best budget Dyson, costing around $400 less than the flagship Dyson V15 Detect. But while this used to come at a sacrifice in cleaning power, now it isn't as much of a downgrade.

The Dyson V8 Cyclone will be released in 2026, with pricing information revealed closer to the release date.

What to shop

While the Dyson V8 Cyclone isn't available just yet, its attachments will be compatible with the existing Dyson V8. And as Dyson encourages trade-ins, to take money off a new purchase while responsibly recycling old materials, you could invest in the budget-friendly model for now and upgrade when the new vacuum is released.

We've also tested 82 of the best vacuum cleaners and can recommend some fantastic alternatives.

All prices were correct at time of publication.

For more tried-and-tested floorcare inspiration, browse through our list of the best Dyson alternatives or the best Shark vacuums.

Robot vacuums are evolving, with the tech world's latest advancements pushing the market to answer household needs like never before.

Every September, Berlin becomes the stage for the latest in home technology – and this year’s IFA has been dominated by robots promising to transform floorcare.

From tank-like stair-climbing vacuums to all-in-one cleaning solutions, brands are racing to overcome the biggest limitations of even the best robot cleaners. As a home tech editor and professional vacuum tester, here's what I was most excited about seeing at IFA.

The robot vacuums announced at IFA, pushing the boundaries of home cleaning

Among the exciting announcements I witnessed at IFA, including the AI home systems that are beginning to look after us, the latest innovations in the robot vacuum market stole the show.

Dreame and ECOVACS have announced some of the most exciting advancements, with stronger cleaning performances and measures to overcome what previous robots have failed at. It marks a significant step towards these automated helpers doing more work, with less input from us.

Dreame Cyber X

One major downside to robot vacuums is their inability to traverse stairs. Dreame's latest innovation solves this automated cleaning nuisance, with huge, almost tank-like legs that can roll up and down steps without any intervention from humans.

Instead of adapting their robot vacuums to do the job, Dreame's created a robust stair-climbing shell for its floor cleaning robots. These can attach to existing models, instantly upgrading how easily they can move across your home. Gone are the days when you had to carry your robot upstairs to clean your first or second floor. Now, it can do it by itself, sensing the height and depth of each step and climbing up like a smooth, silent mini tank.

The Cyber X can climb stairs up to 9.8 inches in height at 7.9 inches per second. That's impressive considering it's a world-first for steps of this size. Its rubber treads avoid damaging hardwood floors or delicate tile, meaning you won't have to worry about unintended scratches dampening the convenience.

There's no word just yet on exactly which models the Cyber X will be compatible with, and there isn't an official release date either. But I'm excited to witness such exciting developments in the world of automated cleaning and see with my own eyes how smoothly this contraption works.

ECOVACS DEEBOT X11 OMNICYCLONE

ECOVACS, one of the global leaders in robotic cleaning, unveiled their brand new flagship: The ECOVACS DEEBOT X11 OMNICYCLONE that can climb steps and thresholds up to 1.57 inches. It's similar tech to what we've seen in Dreame's X50 Ultra that can climb small steps.

It does this using ECOVACS' new TruePass Adaptive 4WD Climbing System. It's a mechanical lift system that doesn't rely on cameras or sensors, but small levers that automatically engage when needed.

This is a direct response to the common robot vacuum fault of steps and different floor types posing issues for a robot's navigation path.

Climbing abilities aside, this robot boasts some impressive specs for vacuuming and mopping your floors. The DEEBOT X11 OMNICYCLONE's 19,500Pa suction is stronger than any robot we've tested at Homes & Gardens – with our current favorite the eufy Omni S1 Pro only boasting 8,000Pa.

It also has a high-density nylon, reinforced mop to break down tough stains, that can adapt up to 0.6 inches to reach into corners and tight spots.

And in between cleans, the cleaning station has fast charging, which can power up the robot while simultaneously rinsing the mop pads or emptying the dustbin.

Next, discover how immaculately the best Dyson vacuums can clean your floors, or consider the best Dyson alternatives to do so on a budget.

You're likely using your vacuum cleaner weekly, or even daily – but are you getting the most out of it?

As detailed by our appliance experts, purchasing an effective vacuum is only the very beginning of using it to clean your floors. You'll be able to get the most out of it by keeping a few key tasks in mind.

Here, we've compiled all our expert-approved advice on maximizing the performance of all the best vacuums, including cleaning, maintenance, and storage.

Getting to know your vacuum cleaner

So, you've taken the plunge on a purchase – but what do all those parts and attachments actually do?

• Crevice tool: The crevice tool is invaluable for focused cleaning and anywhere that the usual brushroll can't reach, getting into tight spots like corners, baseboard edges, gaps between carpeting or wooden panels, under appliances, and between stairs. It's also effective for small spot suction, like cleaning crumbs from the car seat, or getting debris stuck under the oven.
• Dust brush: Soft brushes help dislodge dust particles from windowsills, lampshades, picture frames, or any surface above the floor where dust can sit. They're great for more gentle cleaning, like cleaning TV screens or clearing the dust on delicate items.
• Upholstery tool: Around four to six inches wide, this tool is designed to suck up any hairs and debris when you clean upholstery, and they'll often have strips specifically to draw out lint. They're also great for vacuuming carpets, to make carpets fluffy again, and vacuuming mattresses and cushions.
• Extension wand: Extension wands are fantastic at reaching higher-up places, with many versions offering an extra 18 inches – perfect for reaching things like fan blades, door frames, and air vents. You can often attach a separate attachment to the end, making it the ideal long-reach dusting companion for high-up shelves.
• Mattress tool: Similar to the upholstery tool, mattress attachments can suck up lint, dirt, and debris from mattresses thanks to their flat, wide shape. Perfect for cleaning your mattress for a well-needed refresh, or spring cleaning a bed.
• Pet hair tool: Designed for hands-on pet grooming, these attachments can often come with a variety of combs to brush loose pet hair into the vacuum cleaner. This avoids the hair falling onto carpets and furniture, but of course, make sure to be gentle with your furry friends. The best vacuum attachments for pet hair can solve the never-ending fur problem on every surface.
• Radiator brush: This brush is thin enough to fit between the radiator fins, making light work of a task that would otherwise require a lot more time.

How to keep your vacuum clean

It can be easy to overlook the fact that the cleaning supplies themselves require upkeep; however, cleaning your vacuum is essential to maintain its longevity, performance and prevent dirt and dust from spreading.

Not only will this improve the suction power of your vacuum, but it will also ensure it lasts longer and even contribute to a healthier home microbiome, too.

While we always recommend checking your vacuum's user manual for specific cleaning instructions, as models can vary, these are the general principles you need to know about to get the job done.

1. Unplug the vacuum

It may seem obvious to begin with unplugging your vacuum, but is highly important when it comes to your safety. Then, systemically disassemble the necessary parts, such as the dustbin, filters, and brushes, to ensure a thorough clean. Looking at your user manual can help you here, and it should be available online.

Simply search for your vacuum make, model, and 'user manual' and it should pop up.

2. Empty the canister or replace the bag

For bagless vacuums, empty the dustbin or canister regularly to prevent it from getting too full and causing a loss of suction power.

This will also help to stop your vacuum cleaner from smelling, and should be done either after every use or when it gets about halfway full, as it's generally best to avoid overfilling your vacuum, depending on the size of the canister.

As Scott Schrader, cleaning expert at CottageCare, says, 'This helps keep the vacuum’s ability to suck at its highest efficiency.’

For bagless models, emptying outside and away from vents can help prevent allergens from being released back into your home.

Replace the bag fully at least every three months, and always take note of any warning lights that indicate the bag is full.

3. Sanitize the compartment where dirt collects

As Muffetta Krueger, cleaning expert and founder of Muffetta's Housekeeping, says, 'This will prevent unpleasant odors and bacterial growth.'

To do this, turn off the power and remove the dustbin from the vacuum, removing the filter to be cleaned later. Use a dry microfiber cloth to wipe down the inside of the canister. We recommend these HOMEXCEL Microfiber Cloths, available Amazon as they are hardwearing, easy to wash and dry, and reusable.

Then, soak the canister in warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly to get rid of the soapy film. Hashi Mohamed, president of Ivy Cleans reminds us, 'Before reinstalling the canister, make sure it is completely dry to avoid trapping moisture, which can lead to mold growth and decreased suction power.'

You can also gently wash the vacuum bag with soapy water, then rinse it and let it air dry. Some vacuum bags are also machine washable, so check the instructions.

4. Clean the filters

Filters play a vital role in trapping and reducing common household allergens and maintaining good air quality indoors, and should be cleaned every two to four weeks.

Remove dust before washing a filter by taking it out, wrapping it in a trash bag, and tapping it on a hard surface outdoors. This is particularly important after you've vacuumed a pest problem.

Callum Stokes, from House Vacuum Cleaner says, 'Clean the vacuum's filters (HEPA, foam, or felt filters) according to the manufacturer's instructions. Each type will have different requirements to avoid damage.

'Wash washable filters with cold water, and air-dry fully before returning to the unit,' which will usually take at least 24 hours. 'Replace non-washable filters as advised,' adds Callum.

Importantly, if the manufacturer hasn't recommended soap or cleaning solutions, don't use them.

5. Clean the head

While our information mainly pertains to cleaning the best Dyson vacuum heads, as our home tech editor and resident vacuum tester, Dan Fauzi, took one apart and gave it a deep clean, these tips can be used for any model.

1. Remove the head from the wand or vacuum. For more access, you can take upright vacuum heads apart using a screwdriver, but be careful about removing what you can't reassemble. Check your user manual's guidance.
2. Remove the brush roll using the release mechanism. Different heads do this differently; it may be a latch to pull up, or a thin slot to turn with a coin.
3. Wash the roller with warm water and mild detergent. Andy Shu, founder of Zapfixers, advises, 'Avoid soaking it, and ensure it’s completely dry before reassembling.' For any areas that are accessible within the vacuum cleaner head, avoid using anything damp. A dry, lint-free cloth or soft brush will remove any stuck-on dirt and grime.
4. Remove hair using scissors or a blade, as Lina DaSilva, founder at Toronto Shine Cleaning, recommends. This is important as hair can impede rotation and generally reduce the effectiveness of your vacuum, and is particularly important for the best vacuums for pet hair. Some better brushes will be removable, making it easier to get the scissors in to snip at the hair. If it is not, use a Retractable Box Cutter available at Amazon, to carefully slide under the hair and slice it away. Remember to always cut away from you to decrease the likelihood of an accident. If you have pets, this should be done once a week.
5. Clean the underside of the vacuum head. Vacuum pro Dan recommends an old toothbrush or crevice brush, such as the OXO Good Grips Deep Clean Brush Set available at Amazon.
6. Wipe the exterior with a dry cloth and reassemble when completely dry.

6. Brush out the hoses and pipes

Blockages are the leading cause of your vacuum losing suction power, which is why you should regularly check the vacuum's hose, attachments, and pathways for clogs. Proper maintenance can greatly increase how long a vacuum lasts – make sure you're clued up on all the things you should never vacuum.

Henrique Conceicao, manager at Total Clean advises, 'Your best bet for clearing out any hair and debris in these places is a straightened coat hanger or a brush with a long and flexible handle. These tools are great for clearing out any obstructions and keeping your vacuum’s suction power in its best form.'

We recommend this Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit available at Amazon.

Angela Rubin, a cleaning expert at Hellamaid also recommends, 'Follow the vacuum's user manual to clean the internal air pathway, which may involve removing panels or accessing the internal components. Ensure it's free from obstructions and dust.'

Additionally, don't forget about the wheels. 'Casters and wheels are another area that collect high amounts of debris and hair,' says Henrique. 'Your best bet is to again use a pair of scissors [such as the Westcott Multipurpose Scissors available at Walmart] to remove the unwanted obstructions.'

7. Wipe the exterior

To finish, Muffetta suggests, 'Use a damp cloth to clean the vacuum's exterior, including the handle, body, and button. This prevents the transfer of dirt from the vacuum to your hands.'

'Disinfect high-touch areas like the handle and power buttons,' adds Angela Rubin. 'A simple solution of water and mild dish soap [such as the Seventh Generation Dish Soap Liquid available at Walmart] or a disinfectant wipe works well for this purpose.'

Why is my vacuum cleaner smelly?

As they're responsible for so much of our home cleaning, it makes sense that vacuum cleaners smell foul from time to time. Fortunately, it isn't too difficult to resolve the problem, and many of these issues will be negated if you make tackling your vacuum cleaner a regular part of your achievable cleaning routine.

1. Your vacuum's dustbin, bag or canister needs emptying

You'd be surprised at how many people overfill their vacuums. But, keeping messes in your vacuum will inevitably release them back into your home over time, as appliance expert Andy affirms, 'Accumulated dirt, dust, and debris can start to smell if not emptied regularly.'

2. Your vacuum needs cleaning

Logan Taylor, professional cleaner and founder of Dazzle Cleaning Company, advises, 'One of the most common reasons is the lack of regular cleaning and maintenance. Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can build up in your vacuum filters and other components, leading to unpleasant odors.'

3. Your filters are clogged, dirty, or overused

David Buckler, president and general manager of MaidPro Calgary, explains, 'Modern vacuums tend to have several different filters, and they will eventually get plugged up and a little smelly.'

4. Moisture buildup

Another common denominator to bad odors emanating from your vacuum is a buildup of moisture, says Rocky Vuong, founder and owner of Calibre Cleaning. 'Trapped moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew, adding another layer of stink,' he warns. To prevent this, you should always avoid vacuuming damp materials. Unless yours is a wet-dry vacuum, it likely won't be able to handle the moisture.

5. Pet hair and dander

Our precious pets have natural odors, and these don't go away once their hair and dander are vacuumed up. As Andy Shu puts it, 'Pet hair and dander can start to smell over time, especially if it's mixed with dirt and moisture.'

6. Electrical issues

'If you have tried all of the above and still have a smell, you may be nearing the end of your vacuum life,' says David from MaidPro. 'Electric motors will wear out, and you’ll start to smell a sharp burnt electrical odor as the motor itself nears the end of its life.'

A burning smell doesn't necessarily mean your vacuum is on the way out, but it most likely will cost you. 'Typically a vacuum motor costs $100+ for just the parts, so unless it’s under warranty still or a really expensive vac system, you’re generally better off to replace the whole thing,' adds David.

Vacuuming by different surface type

How to vacuum carpet

Vacuuming your carpets is a crucial task for keeping a home clean, and doing it regularly means it takes less time each time, too.

Doing so will also extend the lifespan of your carpet, as Karina Toner, cleaning expert and operations manager at Spekless, says, 'Dirt particles can wear down carpet fibers over time. Vacuuming prevents buildup, helping your carpet maintain its appearance and texture.'

When dealing with carpets, especially high-pile carpets, it's best to move slowly to give the brushroll enough time to agitate all the trapped debris and vacuum in multiple directions to ensure you lift dirt embedded in fibers. It's helpful to start at one end of the room to avoid missing any spots, and use attachments for edges and corners, as these are areas that often trap dust and dirt.

Karina also reminds us not to forget to adjust the vacuum height. 'Match the height to your carpet type for optimal suction, and empty the vacuum bag or bin regularly, as a full bag reduces efficiency,' she says.

You can also, if you would like, freshen up carpets with powders before vacuuming. While not every carpet deodorizer is safe for the vacuum, as some can clog the vacuum's parts like the filter and motor, you can deodorize floors using baking soda, such as the ARM & HAMMER Pure Baking Soda available at Walmart. This is a safe substance for your home, pets and vacuum cleaner, that will leave your home feeling fresher.

And, if you're wondering how often you should vacuum carpet, Karina advises that moderate-traffic areas should be tackled one to two times a week, while high-traffic areas, such as entryway ideas and living room ideas, should be vacuumed daily, or at least three to four times a week to keep dirt and debris under control.

Then, for low-traffic or rarely-used areas, once every one to two weeks is sufficient.

How to vacuum furniture

Keeping furniture clean can be a laborious task, but it is vital to reducing allergies and keeping it in top condition. And, while you can use any vacuum to clean furniture, there are a few things you should consider before cleaning upholstery, whether you're cleaning a fabric couch, cleaning a velvet couch, or tackling any other upholstered surfaces. Here's how to get the job done properly, without damage:

1. Check for loose threads and snags to avoid causing irreversible damage.
2. Choose an upholstery attachment or soft brush. Scott Johnston, carpet and upholstery cleaning expert at Carpet Care of the Carolinas, advises, 'If the attachment has a brush, do not rub with force when going over upholstery, as you do not want to damage your textiles.' Instead, you should allow a built-in beater brush to do most of the work when stirring up embedded dust, he suggests. While you can use a regular vacuum on a couch, we always recommend that it's best to use a dedicated attachment for the job.
3. Use a low suction setting, starting with the lowest setting and adjusting as needed if you need a more powerful pull.
4. Test in an inconspicuous area to make sure you won't damage your furniture in an obvious spot.
5. Vacuum in a pattern, starting at the top of your furniture and working from the high back to the arms if required, to the cushion pad, and then to the base. 'Always keep the attachment moving,’ says Scott. ‘If you hold it in place, the beater bar could damage your textiles.’ This also allows any dislodged dust or dirt to fall down without muddying your work and ensures you pass over every area without missing a spot. 
6. Use alternate tools for stubborn pet hair, as this has an unfortunate habit of working its way between the fibers of upholstered furniture, making it trickier to get out with a regular vacuum. We recommend the BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser available at Amazon for this.

You might not know it, but you should actually be vacuuming your upholstered furniture almost as often as your flooring. This way, your upholstery will stay clean, and dust and debris will not accumulate if you vacuum frequently, Jenna Shaughnessy, cleaning expert and lifestyle blogger at Jenna Kate at Home, says.

‘Vacuuming your upholstery regularly, around once a week if you have pets or every other week otherwise, is essential to keeping it spick and span and free of allergens and dust,' she explains.

Like carpets, you can also use baking soda to deodorize your upholstered furniture, sprinkling over a light layer, and letting it sit for 30 minutes before vacuuming it up.

How to store your vacuum cleaner

Finding the sweet spot between concealing your vacuum cleaner and having it readily available in an accessible spot takes a bit of fine-tuning, as well as a familiarity with your home's storage options.

If you're lucky enough to have an under-stairs closet or utility room, this is generally the best bet, but there are plenty of alternatives if you don't. There are just a few things to note before finding the ideal new spot in your home for your vacuum to live when not in use, but the most important is that you consider the safety of you and your machine.

Petya Holevich, cleaning expert at Fantastic Services, advises, 'The best place to store a vacuum cleaner is in a cool, dry, and clean space, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Sunlight can cause the vacuum cleaner's plastic parts to fade and become brittle, while humidity and moisture can cause rust and damage to the appliance.

'Make sure also that the power cord is securely and neatly wrapped to prevent it from tangling and getting damaged. Always wrap the cord separately and store it next to the vacuum cleaner and avoid wrapping it around the appliance, as this may cause damage to both the appliance and the cord itself.'

Here's our expert advice for each model:

• Cordless stick vacuums: Pop these in a closet, on a shelf, under your bed, or hang them on a hook to maximize space. 'Just be sure not to cram them in tightly,' says Tina Priestly, professional organizer and owner of Ready, Set, Refresh. Many cordless sticks also come with a dedicated wall mount that charges the vacuum when it's docked. If yours didn't come with one, you can find plenty of wall mount options for different vacuum cleaners at Amazon. Vacuum brands like Dyson and Shark have their own mounts for specific vacuums, but other manufacturers have jumped on the opportunity to provide compatible ones at a typically lower price, so it's worth a browse on Amazon for universal vacuum mounts to see if there's one that will fit your model at a budget that suits you.
• Upright vacuums: The obvious choice for these is under the stairs. You can also, as Tina recommends, 'Install custom-built cabinets or create a small closet with a door to hide the vacuum away,' if you don't already have a space to accommodate it. As with cordless vacs, you can still hang an upright vacuum from a wall, it'll just require a sturdier mount. 'This not only saves floor space but also protects the vacuum from being knocked over or damaged,' says cleaning expert Karina.
• Canister vacuums: According to Joseph Passalacqua, CEO of Maid Sailors, 'Canister vacuums, with their detachable hose and nozzle, can be stored in a dedicated cabinet or on a garage shelf where they are easily accessible but out of sight.' Canister vacuums are shaped more awkwardly, so hanging them in closets like a cordless or upright vacuum won't work. Their long hoses and separate canister and floor head parts are best kept on a strong shelf, or tucked underneath a bed or furniture, as mentioned above.

Vacuum maintenance essentials

FAQs

How often should you clean a vacuum?

As for how often to clean your vacuum, it largely depends on your usage.

In general, pros recommend cleaning yours every three to six months, but keep in mind that this should be done more often if you have pets, live in a particularly dusty environment, or you're prone to allergies.

Why is my vacuum losing suction power?

If you're vacuum is losing suction power, there are a number of things which could be causing the issue. Luckily, most are fixable:

• The dust container is full: Always begin troubleshooting a loss of suction power with this simple step.
• Clogged parts: It's likely there's something stuck in the suction hose, so inspect this for any items that may be preventing proper airflow. You may have to disassemble your vacuum and pull it out by hand. An easy test is dropping a quarter through the hose whilst you're holding it upright. If it drops out of the other end, it's unlikely to be an issue here. If it doesn't come out, you've located the clog.
• Your filters need checking: Check your filters for clogs, and clean and replace them regularly as needed.
• Air leaks: Conversely, vacuums can also suffer from too much air. Leaky hoses can be taped or replaced. Leaky cases can also be taped, or epoxy can be used to seal them. Duck Brand Duct Tape available at Amazon is a cheap fix.
• Worn our or damaged parts: A vacuum cleaner is made of many parts, including a hose, gasket, seals, belts, fan blades, and rotating brushes. All of them can become worn out or damaged over time.

Importantly, vacuums will generally gradually lose suction power over time due to general wear and tear on the motor.

Meet our experts

If you have noticed the signs you need to replace a vacuum and are in the market for a new model, you can check out our guide on how to choose a vacuum cleaner.

Having spent more than a decade testing home tech, I’ve seen my fair share of 'groundbreaking' features, but few have failed to pique my interest quite as much as the Roborock Saros Z70 and its mechanical arm.

As the first consumer robot model capable of tidying, vacuuming and mopping, the Saros Z70 promises to solve one of my biggest gripes with all of the other best robot vacuums I’ve tested – having to clear the floor of clutter.

The robot automatically spots and picks up items like socks, tissues, and lightweight shoes and either throws them away, or stores them in the correct place.

Of course, such innovation does come at a price so, I’ve spent the past four weeks living with the Saros Z70 to see if it lives up to the hype, and its unique offering is worth paying a significant premium for.

Roborock Saros Z70: Specifications

Roborock Saros Z70: Setup

Unboxing the Roborock Saros Z70 feels more like unpacking a major kitchen appliance than a home tech gadget. The box is huge and heavy – at 47lbs, I struggled to lift it myself – and inside is the robot itself, its multifunctional dock, mop pads, a starter set of disposable dust bags, power cables, and a cardboard container with QR codes for the arm to practice with.

It's one of the more difficult builds I've done for a smart home setup.

It’s not difficult to get everything out, but it is time-consuming, not to mention messy. Every roller, sensor, and mop pad is wrapped in sealed plastic with foam spacers, and it took me at least 10 minutes just to strip everything down and sort the packaging before I even had the chance to plug it in.

The dock makes up the majority of this bulk, taking up about as much space as a side table. It needs to sit against a wall with access to power, and enough room for both its built-in ramp and for the robot to maneuver in and out of.

It’s also worth setting it up somewhere easily accessible, too, because it washes mop pads with hot water and uses detergent, so you’ll be topping up its tanks occasionally.

Once everything is unwrapped, the setup largely lives in the Roborock app. Like other smart home tech, you’ll need to create an account, connect the robot to your Wi-Fi network and – in my case – download a firmware update before you can get started.

Roborock’s app is one of the best in the business. It’s intuitive, well laid-out, and full of customization options. It walked me through the Saros Z70 setup smoothly, with the robot being connected on the first attempt. Which is rarely the case, sadly.

Out of the box, the robot had around 80% charge and that’s more than enough to run the first mapping mission. Unlike Roborock’s older models, the Z70 uses its trademarked StarSight Autonomous System.

It took just under 30 minutes to fully map my 700 square foot ground floor – and the payoff is a highly accurate map with nooks and crannies, walls, furniture, thresholds, and individual rooms all identified and labelled.

This new system also means the Saros Z70 does away with the protruding sensors seen on other models, which can so often get stuck under low furniture. You can then divide spaces on the app into rooms, set no-go zones, and even assign cleaning preferences per room. It's a sophisticated map that should ensure your robot vacuum stops getting stuck.

If you want to, then use the OmniGrip arm, you need to activate it via the app, as well as define where objects should be relocated – such as tissues into a bin, socks into a laundry basket or shoes on a rack. Roborock includes a cardboard box with QR codes to act as a target, although you can set your own zones instead. It’s clever, but it feels slightly finicky.

Overall, the setup is straightforward but not quick. From unboxing to the first mapped clean took me almost an hour. That’s much longer than the average 15 minutes and means you have to set some time aside to get it all sorted.

However, once it’s done, you won’t need to revisit setup often – except perhaps to tweak object zones for the arm – so it’s short-term pain for longer-term gain.

Roborock Saros Z70: Design and features

On first impression, the Roborock Saros Z70 is sleek and modern. There’s no tall LiDAR tower; instead, it’s a matte-finish disc in black or silver with sensors, camera,s and bump guards fitted around its circumference. I tested the silver mode,l and it looks slightly dated compared to photos I’ve seen of the full black model, but this is a minor complaint.

Thanks to the lack of LiDAR tower, the Z70 measures just 3.14 inches tall, making it one of the slimmest high-end robot vacuums available. It slides under sofas, sideboards, and beds easily, and its 13.8 x 13.9-inch size means it’s compact enough to maneuver around table legs and corners without bumping or scraping, but robust enough to not feel flimsy or like it could get damaged.

At 10.18lbs, it’s also relatively lightweight, which makes it easy to pick up and carry between floors if you don’t want to rely solely on multi-floor mapping.

On top of the disc is a plastic flap that protects the OmniGrip arm, which sits inside a small hatch. The five-axis arm folds into place neatly when not in use. The flap then opens automatically, and the arm, complete with cameras, LED lights, and weight sensors capable of lifting objects up to 0.66lbs, extends on its own. Or you can manually control it via the app. Just above this hatch is an emergency stop button, which sits below a dual power and dock button.

We were excited to test this model after Roborock announced a robot that could pick up objects, and it was great to see this futuristic tech in action.

Flip the Roborock Saros Z70 over and you'll find dual spinning mop pads, a FreeFlow main brush, the roller and a single rotating wheel. The base of the robot is fitted with a so-called AdaptiLift chassis that helps it climb taller thresholds (up to 4cm) and lifts its mop out of reach of carpets, making it easy and mess-free to transition between floor and cleaning types. This is something that often trips up other robots, excuse the pun.

Beyond design, the suction spec is one of the Saros Z70’s standout features – offering up to 22,000 Pa. Far higher than the 8,000 Pa eufy Omni S1 Pro, which retails for a similar price.

Elsewhere, you can control the Saros Z70 straight out of the box with built-in full voice control. You don’t have to connect it to use voice assistants, including Alexa and Google Assistant if you don’t want to, just say 'Hello Rocky' followed by one of the pre-programmed commands, and the robot is ready to do your bidding.

That said, it is compatible with smart home assistants if you prefer to control it that way. I should note that not all of the pre-programmed 'Hello Rocky' commands are obvious, so it’s worth keeping the voice command card that comes in the box handy while you get used to them.

Alongside app and voice control, the Z70 also doubles as a mobile camera to improve your home security. Through the Roborock app you can watch it drive remotely around your home with its Remote Viewing feature.

If you need or want to, you can also take over the robot itself and even remotely control the mechanical arm, with the built-in Remote Control feature. You can even make video calls through its front-facing camera. In practice, this is a bit of a novelty, but for pet owners or frequent travelers, the ability to see and not just clean your floors could be genuinely handy.

Onto the dock and the Saros Z70 offers everything you need to clear and clean your floors in one place – hot water mop washing, warm-air mop drying, automatic emptying, and detergent dispensing. While simpler models still require manual mop removal or water tank refills, the Z70’s dock is almost entirely hands-off.

What is the Roborock Saros Z70 like to use?

Using the Saros Z70 day-to-day is a mix of wow moments with occasional exasperation. Its navigation and mapping is among the best I’ve seen, with the robot easily navigating wires, chair legs, and toys, rarely needing rescue. The maps it created of my home were accurate, and I could quickly send the robot to specific rooms or ask it to skip others entirely at the press of a button. Noise levels were surprisingly good, too.

In quiet mode, the motor never exceeded 51 dB, but even in standard mode, the Z70 averaged only 58 dB. This means you can still watch TV while it cleans and there were times I forgot it was running, and it just appeared over a threshold (making me jump).

Its noise levels on maximum suction, and when emptying the dock dustbag, are slightly more intrusive – at 65 dB and 68 dB on average respectively – but both were still much quieter than the best handheld vacuums. The robot’s voice prompts can be a bit chatty, but thankfully, you can tone them down via the app.

Then there’s the mechanical arm. It’s great in theory, entertaining to watch and feels super futuristic – with a slow and smooth stretching motion that makes you feel like you’re in a sci-fi movie – but in daily life, its limitations quickly became clear. It reliably picks up socks and paper, but only about half the time.

If it picks up anything larger, like my seven-year-old’s T-shirt, it tends to panic and move round in circles saying it’s “trapped.” This is because larger items block its sensors and cameras and it can’t “see.” In my youngest child’s room, a quick vacuum run became an almost staged performance, adding to cleaning time significantly.

This feature, while clever, feels more novelty than necessity right now. Plus, it’s painfully slow. I could go around an entire floor of my house and pick up everything off the floor in the same time it took for the robot to take a single item to the storage basket. What’s more, no matter which types of shoes I placed in its path – Crocs, soft slippers, flip-flops – it could never quite manage to pick them up. In fact, it rarely identified them as shoes and just thought they were obstacles to avoid.

In terms of the Remote Viewing and Remote Control features, both are useful if you want to check in on it while you’re away or if you get a warning notification that the robot is stuck somewhere when you’re out of the house. I used the Remote Control via the Remote Viewing screen a few times, largely to move the robot from wherever it was stuck, and for picking up awkwardly shaped clutter when the arm was struggling to grab it. Both are fun but are nice-to-haves rather than must-haves.

Interestingly, the most truly impactful features that are more than worth the extra money are those found in the dock. It handles almost everything and my favorite feature is the mop washing and drying. It’s genuinely a gamechanger. The only times you really need to intervene is when replacing the dock dustbag, or topping up and emptying the water tanks. That said, the dock dustbag hasn’t needed emptying in the whole time I’ve had this robot, which is four weeks and counting. You can even get away with only managing the water tanks around once a week, but if you want to avoid mold and mildew I recommend keeping on top of it more regularly.

Generally speaking, the Saros Z70 is at its best when it’s left to run scheduled routines in fairly open spaces. Its navigation and dock features, coupled with its advanced sensors, make the robot accurate and reliable with minimal human effort and there’s a strong chance that anything you don’t like or want to change can be managed in the brilliant app. Just don’t expect miracles.

Roborock Saros Z70: Vacuuming

To put the Saros Z70’s vacuuming through its paces, I ran six tests, three on carpet and three on hard floors – sugar for fine debris, lentils for medium debris, and cereal for large debris. Each test involved scattering a quarter cup of each food stuff across the floor, including edges and corners and recording two runs.

When cleaning hard floors, the Z70 did well with sugar, collecting almost everything in a single pass. It did leave a faint trail in one corner, though a second pass caught it. With lentils, it impressed even more, pulling nearly everything in on the first attempt with very little scatter.

Cereal was the weakest of the three. The side brush sometimes flicked Cheerios across the room, and the suction pulled a few pieces halfway through before spitting them back out. A repeat pass usually fixed this, but it wasn’t spotless and often involved me having to finish the job with my best Dyson vacuum.

Carpet was a similar story. The Z70 picked up most of the fine debris, but I could still see granules left behind in the fibers. Lentils fared better, although it took two slow passes for a clean sweep. The cereal run was, again, the most frustrating, with large pieces occasionally getting dragged or half-chewed before being spat back out. Even weeks after the test, I’m still finding Cheerios stuck in parts of the vacuum or dock. This is where that headline-grabbing 22,000Pa suction didn’t quite live up to what I was expecting.

Pet hair was another weak spot. While the robot can grab surface fur easily, it struggles with embedded hair in rugs and thicker carpet unless you set it for a Deep Clean. This is easy to do and it works really well but I feel like, at this robot’s price, I shouldn’t have to.

After two weeks, I found myself still reaching for my upright vacuum to properly lift pet hair. Hair tangling is also an issue. Roborock’s “Zero-Tangling” brush didn’t quite live up to its name and twice in three weeks I had to stop, flip the robot over, and clear strands. This is far from a disaster, but it’s also far from the hassle-free experience I expect when looking for the best vacuum for pet hair.

Day-to-day vacuuming is much better, though. The Z70 genuinely slashed my manual vacuuming by about 70%. I could leave the robot to run and come back to visibly cleaner floors, especially in the kitchen and hallway. On average, I was still hauling out my main vacuum once or twice a week to finish what the Z70 couldn’t or to just deep clean carpets, but I usually run the vacuum twice a day minimum so this was a huge help.

Roborock Saros Z70: Mopping

To test the Roborock Saros Z70’s mopping skills, I poured a quarter cup of ketchup, and a quarter cup of mustard to clean my laminate floor. These thicker, sticky stains are a good way to see whether a robot mop can scrub or if it simply drags mess around.

With ketchup, the Z70’s dual spinning mop pads removed around 80% of the stain on the first pass, but a faint red smear remained. The robot returned for a second pass, and after about three minutes the area looked clean. That said, on closer look under bright light there was still a faint red residue that I had to manually mop to fully get rid of.

The mustard was more of a challenge. The pads picked up some of the stain immediately, but the yellow streaks were spread out in a thin film across the surrounding area. After two passes, most of the obvious mess was gone, but I had a similar problem with residue as I had with the ketchup test. Also, while the floor didn’t feel sticky afterwards, there was a noticeable odor until I manually wiped the area with fresh water and, even now, the vacuum still has an aroma of mustard. Despite me attempting to wash it all from the wheels, mop cloths and underside.

Outside of these tests, everyday mopping was impressive. The Z70 automatically drops its mop pads for hard floors, applies consistent downward pressure, and can lift them out of the way when it senses carpet. In my kitchen, it handled dried coffee splashes and dusty footprints in one pass. In my hallway, it left a uniform shine with no visible streaking. I absolutely recommend it for day-to-day cleaning and stain removal.

One of its biggest advantages is how dry it leaves the floor. After a full mop cycle, I could comfortably walk across the floor in socks within about five minutes. There was no sticky film, and thanks to the dock’s use of hot water and detergent, the air carried a faintly “fresh” scent – closer to just-washed laundry than the musty smell some robots leave behind.

Overall, the Z70’s mopping performance is better than most hybrids I’ve tested. It won’t replace a deep manual mop for heavy, sticky spills, but for day-to-day maintenance, it’s thorough, quick-drying, and reliable. I spent noticeably less time reaching for a traditional mop and I loved the fact the dock handled most of the mop and water maintenance.

Roborock Saros Z70: Cleaning and maintenance

One of the Saros Z70’s biggest selling points is how much of the routine it takes off your hands. The multifunction dock empties the dustbin, washes the mop pads with hot water, dries them with warm air, and even dispenses detergent. It's super easy to avoid common robot vacuum faults as it maintains itself well.

It works great and it made me realize how much time I spent before manually filling and emptying buckets and maintaining mops. Of course, it doesn’t remove you from the equation entirely, but it’s enough to be noticeable.

Even though the built-in dustbin is tiny at 0.19 quarts, the dock’s 2.8-quart bag solves that, lasting roughly six to seven weeks in a medium household. And if the integrated dustbin becomes too full mid-clean, the robot will go back to the dock, empty the bin into the dustbag and then resume its session.

After each mopping cycle, the cloth pads are flushed with hot water and they come out fresh and odor-free, even with daily use. Drying takes a few hours but is fully automatic, a big step up from earlier docks where damp pads quickly turned musty.

You’ll still need to roll up your sleeves occasionally. Long hair wraps around the roller brush, despite Roborock’s “Zero-Tangling” design. Over three weeks, I had to cut strands away twice, not bad, but not tangle-free. The side brush can also snag threads. The filter is washable and needs rinsing every couple of weeks, depending on dust levels.

Both the app and manual have clear guides for removing rollers, pads, and filters, and everything clicks in and out without tools.

Overall, the dock gets rid of most day-to-day chores by dramatically reducing both the physical and mental load, which means when you do need to intervene, it doesn’t feel that bad.

How does the Roborock Saros Z70 compare?

At $1,600-$2,600 (depending on promotions), the Roborock Saros Z70 sits firmly in the premium tier of robot vacuums.

The eufy Omni S1 Pro undercuts the Z70 at $1,499 and impressed us with its balance of vacuuming and mopping. It handled pet hair better and never once wrapped with fur in testing. Its mop pads also self-clean, though without the hot-water wash and drying cycle on the Z70 dock. Its 8,000Pa figure sounds modest compared to the huge numbers promised by the Saros Z70 but in real-world tests it picked up debris on carpet reliably. If you want consistent deep cleaning at a lower price, the S1 Pro may be the smarter buy.

Elsewhere, the Roborock Saros 10R is effectively the Z70 without the mechanical arm, coming in at around $1,300-$1600. It has an almost identical dock, mop system, and StarSight sensors, but its larger internal bin makes it less dependent on dock emptying. What it lacks is the novelty arm but if you don’t see this as essential – and for most people it won’t be – the 10R offers a similar experience for almost $1,000 less.

That leaves the Z70 in a strange position. It’s more futuristic and has a host of features that just about warrant charging the extra money for, but in terms of raw cleaning performance, especially on carpets and with pet hair, it falls short of cheaper models. You’re paying a premium for innovation and the “wow” factor, not necessarily better results.

Should you buy the Roborock Saros Z70?

The Roborock Saros Z70 is, without doubt, one of the most innovative robot vacuums I’ve tested. Its StarSight navigation is superb, its dock takes care of nearly all the messy upkeep, and its slim, tower-free design makes it easy to slot into most homes. On hard floors, its vacuuming and mopping performance is good, although not excellent, and the mop drying feature is a standout that keeps things fresher than other rivals I’ve used. If you’re tech-savvy and want to experience the future of home robotics, the Z70 delivers plenty of “wow” moments.

Yet innovation doesn’t always equal performance. The OmniGrip arm is more novelty than necessity right now and carpet performance and pet hair pickup are weaker than some cheaper competitors, which, when you’re spending more than $2,000, is a bit galling. For spacious, open-plan homes with mostly hard flooring or with fewer inhabitants, the Z70 makes sense and could genuinely reduce your day-to-day workload. For busier, cluttered households, or if you need deep carpet cleaning, you may find better value elsewhere.

How I tested the Roborock Saros Z70

I tested the Roborock Saros Z70 over a four-week period in my family home with a mix of hard floors and carpet, two children, and a dog. To measure vacuuming performance, I ran a series of tests, including scattering sugar for fine debris, lentils for medium debris, and Cheerios for larger debris across both hard floors and carpets.

For mopping, I made ketchup and mustard stains on my kitchen floor to see how well it could mop away larger, wet and stickier stains. Noise levels were then recorded using the DecibelX app throughout these tests.

Alongside these controlled trials, I used the Z70 for everyday cleaning, tracking how often I still needed to reach for a manual vacuum or mop, and making a note of how clean the floors looked after runs. I also kept track of how often I had to empty the bin, cut hair from rollers or manually maintain the robot and dock.

Next, browse our tested picks of the best Dyson vacuums and the best Shark vacuums.

If you have a vacuum, you've probably felt the grossness and frustration of having your brushroll wrapped in hair and being tasked with removing it.

The good news is, you can get this nasty job over and done with in seconds, with one surprising sewing tool reigning supreme. I've spent 250 hours testing vacuums and this tiny $4 seam ripper from Amazon will help you quickly slice through caught-up hair and have you back to cleaning your floors in no time.

Better yet, this regular maintenance task will mean your best vacuum will stay in tip-top shape for longer.

Why a seam ripper is your vacuum cleaner's best friend

Whether you own one of the best vacuums for pet hair to clean up after your beloved animals, or you simply have long hair yourself, you'll be familiar with gross task of cutting hair out of your vacuum's brushroll. It's a task you're also likely also tackle when keeping a house clean with pets.

But instead of taking to the brushroll with a large pair of scissors and risk damaging it (yes, this easily happens), a simple sewing seam ripper is the solution.

It's precise, and the small blade can effortlessly cut through clumps of hair without reaching the vacuum's brushes and bristles that are essential for deep cleaning carpets and floors.

Not doing so can harm your vacuum by putting unnecessary strain on the roller's moving parts, which in turn can overload the vacuum motor. This can cause your vacuum to lose suction power and eventually result in it breaking down sooner than it should.

With your own seam ripper set, you won't have to worry again.

The Ortarco Seam Ripper Set is available for $3.99 at Amazon.

More to shop

Aside from cutting out hair that's gotten tangled up in your vacuum's brushroll, a few other simple maintenance tasks will keep your appliance running at its best and make your life easier when cleaning.

All prices were correct at time of publication.

Next, learn more about the best robot vacuums we've tested to take cleaning chores off your hands.

Today at IFA in Berlin, which showcases the latest innovations in consumer electronics, Roborock unveiled a revolutionary 4-in-1 Homewide Cleaning Combo that combines a washer-dryer with a robot vacuum and mop to save you time on chores without taking up lots of space.

It's a compact machine at the forefront of a new generation of seamless, intuitive automated home appliances, which the brand named today as 'the future of home tech', and I can see why.

With it, you can load your laundry before you go to bed, and wake up to it washed and dried, with your floors vacuumed and mopped, all whilst saving space and cutting energy bills.

It speaks to a wider trend at this year's IFA of brands creating innovations that aren't just more 'powerful,' but more in tune with our human behavior, where the best robot vacuums make up part of a comprehensive system that does housework as you go about your day. And, you only need space for a regular washer to enjoy its benefits.

A smart system that saves space, reduces chore time, and cuts bills

'This is the future of home tech,' says Yuxin Li, marketing manager at Roborock, 'combining appliances together, saving space, saving on energy, and doing so much of the work for you.

‘Modern homes have less space, and instead of having all of these different appliances, we wanted to combine them into one smart system, especially for small homes and apartments.'

But don't be fooled – this isn't just a small space design. Anyone who prefers not to have appliances take up their precious space will appreciate an intuitive machine that drastically reduces how much time you spend on housework.

The combo unit is the same size as Roborock’s Zeo X washer-dryer, which doesn't include a robotic helper, and the team was determined not to compromise on either side of the design.

‘The biggest challenge was bringing it all together without making it taller or reducing the size of the drum, while making sure the robot dock is as comprehensive as it would be usually. It hasn’t compromised on functionality at all,' Yuxin proudly shares.

With the help of AI and automation, this is an engineering marvel, one that can drastically reduce how much time and effort you're dedicating to chores, and as part of your smart home setup, can be controlled from your smartphone.

The washer-dryer has sensors to identify soil levels and weight to determine the optimal wash cycle and the ideal dryer temperature. And at the same time, the robot senses what's on your floors, maps your home, and identifies behavior patterns to optimize its cleaning, vacuuming, and mopping.

What’s more, Roborock has built in a clever sustainability feature: Overflow water from the washer is recycled to wash the mop pads. The sustainability credentials go further, as the 4-in-1 design cuts down on the need to manufacture, house, and power separate appliances.

Answering my concerns on durability, Yixin explained that the dryer element and the motor will come with a ten-year guarantee – a strong statement of confidence given the number of moving parts involved.

Elsewhere at the enormous IFA in Berlin, which is the largest home and consumer electronics event in the world, Samsung erected a 'Smart Modular Home', complete with smart pillows to reduce snoring and improve sleep quality, and smart mirrors with daily weather displays. There was a 'smart' version of just about every domestic gadget you can think of.

Other floorcare brands such as Narwal and Tineco are showing off their multi-functional cleaning systems, while LG and Miele tout their AI-powered home appliances.

Tech brands are leading the charge for a new type of home living. Gone are the days where an appliance serves one simple function. We're now living in the future, where our homes listen to us, observe us, and work around us while we live our lives, becoming increasingly free from the constraints of traditional housework.

The Roborock 4-in-1 Homewide Cleaning Combo will be available in the coming year.

What to shop

While Roborock's 4-in-1 system isn't available just yet, the smart home world has already brought us some wonderful devices to ease the strain on our time and energy when it comes to housekeeping.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

I'll be continuing to report on the latest smart home releases showcased at the IFA in Berlin this week. In the meantime, delve into the best pet vacuums and our tried and tested favorite robot vacuums, which can reduce your canister use by up to 90%.

Robot vacuums are sold as the ultimate time-saver by promising to take at least one household chore off your plate. In reality, having spent more than a decade testing them, they sit much more on a spectrum.

Some offer near hands-free cleaning, some need as much manual input as an upright vacuum, while others actually make the whole process harder. The Roborock Q7 M5 falls nearer to the latter.

For the past two weeks, I’ve been putting the budget-friendly hybrid model through its paces around my home, seeing how well it can handle a range of specialized tasks as well as the real-life impact of two children and a labrador living across three levels of mixed floors – to find out if it could be one of the best robot vacuums if you're on a budget.

One-minute review

The Roborock Q7 M5 cleans as well as you'd expect at this price point. Using it is a breeze – it has no issues navigating, and the smartphone app is intuitive and useful. But it occasionally misses debris when vacuuming, can smear stains when mopping, and requires a great deal of upkeep between cleans.

Instead, I'd recommend spending a little extra for the eufy 3-in-1 E20, the eufy X10 Pro Omni or the Shark PowerDetect 2-in-1 – all performed much better on test, and have more useful features such as actual self-cleaning or the ability to capture missed messes.

Roborock Q7 M5: Specifications

Roborock Q7 M5: Setup

Getting started with the Roborock Q7 M5 was straightforward, although not entirely without problems. In the box is the robot, its charging dock, a mop module with two mop cloth attachments, a moisture-proof mat, an adapter and the user manual.

The box is compact but each of these components comes wrapped in mixed plastics and polystyrene, with mixed recycling options. Plus it’s not immediately clear, out of the box, what each part is and the manual leaves a little to be desired. It’s full of diagrams and text, but it’s far from intuitive, with different components having random number and lettering labels. We’ve tested 82 of the best vacuums and robot vacuums, and this was one of the most confusing to get started with. For anyone new to robot vacuums, this could easily feel overwhelming.

Luckily, Roborock’s app fills this gap.

After plugging in the dock in a clear area with good Wi-Fi, as the manual suggests, I installed the app and paired the device by scanning the QR code found on top of the robot.

I then slid the dustbin and water tank unit into the robot, and attached the mop underneath using the Velcro strips. Once connected to Wi-Fi, the app (with the help of voice alerts on the robot) walks you through the setup and mapping process step-by-step. It took around 10 minutes to create a map of my downstairs, meaning the whole setup from start to finish only took around 15 minutes.

This map was detailed enough to identify rooms, hallways, and obstacles, and I was able to draw no-go zones directly within the app. There’s enough charge out of the box to create the first map of one floor, however if you want to run a first clean or map multiple floors, you will need to put it on charge, which takes around 30 minutes to get to 100%.

Overall, the setup was relatively painless but not as seamless as it could be. The app does most of the heavy lifting, while the manual and packaging let it down. For anyone comfortable with tech, it’s unlikely to be a problem, but if you’re less confident you may find the onboarding more daunting than necessary when adding to your smart home setup.

Roborock Q7 M5: Design and features

The Roborock Q7 M5 is a budget-friendly hybrid robot that offers vacuuming and mopping in a single device, via a detachable 0.50-quart dustbin that doubles up as a 0.37-quart water tank.

The robot measures 12.8 x 12.8 x 3.9 inches and weighs 7.28lbs, making it slim and light enough to move around, especially if the robot gets stuck somewhere, and means it will fit under most furniture. A raised LiDAR sensor – one of the most effective robot vacuum navigation types – sits on the top of the body, with bump guards and cliff sensors around the circumference.

The Q7 M5 doesn’t have a self-empty or self-clean dock, which isn’t a surprise at this price point but means you have to empty it yourself between uses.

Onboard controls are minimal, with just a power/clean button and a dock/stop button, It has a practical and functional aesthetic with a mix of matte and glossy surfaces. I tested the black model (it’s also sold in white) and its simplicity means it won’t look out of place in most homes.

The LiDAR system combined with the Roborock app gives the Q7 M5 a surprising level of control for the price. You can use it to identify rooms, spot and avoid obstacles, draw virtual boundaries, adjust suction and water flow levels depending on the floor types in different regions of the house and more.

You can even send it to clean specific zones, which is great for high-traffic areas or when spot cleaning in case something is spilled. Overall, the design is smart and practical and the features are well thought-out, but this robot doesn’t innovate much beyond the basics.

What is the Roborock Q7 M5 like to use?

Living with the Roborock Q7 M5 day-to-day was a mixed experience. On one hand, navigation is great. The LiDAR system means the robot doesn’t blunder around aimlessly. It cleans in logical, back-and-forth paths, avoids furniture well, and consistently found its way back to its dock. It also handled thresholds and uneven floors with ease, moving from hard flooring to carpet without needing help.

The app is a standout, packed with useful features you should look for in a robot. Setting schedules, sending the robot to specific rooms, and marking off zones you don’t want it to enter is quick and intuitive. As is adjusting suction and water flow levels. I loved that I could save different settings for different floors and in practice, this level of control made the Q7 M5 feel smarter than other robot vacuums I’ve used in the mid-range price bracket.

However, while mapping and controls are strong, the actual day-to-day use left me underwhelmed. Noise-wise, the robot registered between 72 and 76 dB, on average, during regular vacuuming before spiking to around 80 dB when clearing large debris like cereal from hard floors, which is what you'd expect in one of the best upright vacuums. It was loud enough to distract my family from watching TV when in the same room and meant we had to be selective about when we ran the device. There is a setting in the app that stops it running between certain times though, so this is a small complaint.

The robot avoided most obstacles well, particularly furniture but it was less effective for smaller items like toys. On more than one occasion I had to rescue it from entanglement and because of the sensor that protrudes from the top, there was one sofa in particular that the robot would always get stuck under. So much so, I resorted to blocking access to this sofa if we were out to avoid this happening. Not ideal.

Plus, with the accuracy of its LiDAR, I expected the Q7 M5 to be better at spotting hazards, or even recognizing areas where it had got repeatedly stuck previously.

Cleaning times varied by room size but the robot managed my 700 square foot ground floor in around 65 minutes on standard mode. Battery life was strong too and it never ran out of charge during my tests, with the claimed 180-minute runtime being true to form. However, for comparison, the eufy Omni Pro S1, which we rated five stars, completed a 500 square foot vacuum in 30 minutes.

The mop module uses a washable microfiber cloth and Roborock recommends dampening it before each use. This adds another step before every run and initially seemed like overkill, considering the robot has a built-in water tank. However, having tried mopping with and without completing this step, dampening it beforehand does improve its performance.

Even though the onboard controls are minimal, in practice, you’ll spend nearly all your time in the app. This isn’t a bad thing. The app is intuitive and well laid-out, and far more flexible than button controls could ever be. Voice assistant support via Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri Shortcuts adds another layer of control (and convenience), although in my experience the app was the most reliable way to use it.

Despite these largely positives, the real sticking point was effectiveness. After test runs, I often found myself following up with my best Dyson vacuum. Whether it was sugar on hard floors, cereal dust on tiles, or sticky mop residue, the Q7 M5 didn’t leave my floors in the state I wanted.

Add to this the fact that everything from dustbin emptying to mop cloth washing is manual and the Q7 M5 ended up adding to my chores, not reducing them. While such manual features keeps the cost lower, it undermines the hands-free appeal that makes robot vacuums so attractive in the first place.

In short, the Roborock Q7 M5 is great at finding its way around, but less great at delivering results. It’s a robot that looks clever in the app but doesn’t quite translate that into real-world performance.

Roborock Q7 M5: Vacuuming

To test the Q7 M5’s vacuuming performance, I used three standardized debris types – sugar for fine particles, lentils for medium debris, and Cheerios for large debris. Each was scattered in quarter-cup amounts across both hard floors and carpet.

When cleaning hard floors, sugar was its biggest challenge. Much of the sugar was left behind after a single pass, and even after multiple runs the robot failed to capture it all. Fine dust tends to get pushed around rather than lifted, and the edge performance was especially weak, leaving visible lines of debris at skirting boards and corners.

Lentils were handled better. The robot picked up most on hard floors with only a few stragglers remaining around edges.

By contrast, instead of lifting Cheerios cleanly, the Q7 M5 crushed them, scattering crumbs and dust that it then struggled to collect. The result was messier than when I started and I would have had better luck quickly cleaning the kitchen floor with a brush. I even found myself spotting crumbs and dust for a while, even after manual vacuuming.

Results were better on carpet, across the board. Sugar was still problematic but not as bad as on hard floors, and lentils were picked up well. Cereal was better than on hard surfaces too, mainly because the crumbs and dust couldn’t fly about as easily. Yet it still wasn’t perfect and with the exception of the lentil test, I had to manually finish the job in each case.

One positive was consistency. Once a room was mapped, the robot covered it well in neat lines, rarely missing areas. But coverage means little if the suction and brush design can’t actually pick up debris effectively.

Beyond the standardized tests, pet hair was dealt with well. It only wrapped around the roller on days when my dog was shedding a lot and even then I never had to cut it free. I could just remove it with my hand, meaning that at the very least, this could be a good choice in our hunt for the best vacuum for pet hair. More expensive models such as the Shark PowerDetect 2-in-1 struggled more here.

Ultimately, the Q7 M5 proved average at vacuuming. It can manage everyday crumbs and dust on carpet, but struggles with fine particles on hard floors and makes a mess of large debris. For a product positioned as a convenient choice, I noticed I was still vacuuming with my Dyson most days to achieve a good enough clean, which was disappointing.

Roborock Q7 M5: Mopping

To test the Roborock Q7 M5’s mopping capabilities, I created two stains: a quarter cup of ketchup and a quarter cup of mustard to clean my laminate floor, dried slightly to mimic real spills. I then sent the Q7 M5 over each in Mopping mode. Instead of lifting the stains, both were smeared around, leaving sticky streaks across the floor. The mustard, particularly, ended up leaving a yellow tinge to the floor that I had to scrub twice to remove.

In everyday mopping, performance was better but not significantly so. The robot left my floors looking and smelling clean, removing light dust but failing with any sort of mark or stain removal. The lack of any real friction or pressure from the mop cloth means the mopping function largely just drags a wet cloth across the floor, rather than scrubbing. The plus side was that the floors dried quickly, as they don’t get that wet.

Roborock claims the water flow can be adjusted in the app, and this does make a small difference, but even at higher settings, it didn’t remove stains as well as I’d have liked. The mop doesn’t dry itself either, so it must be removed and washed after each run, which adds another layer of maintenance.

Compared with competitors that have oscillating mop pads or self-cleaning docks – such as the iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ – the Q7 M5 feels rudimentary. For light surface dust, it just about suffices, but it’s certainly no substitute for manual mopping. In fact, after using it I often had to mop by hand anyway.

Roborock Q7 M5: Cleaning and maintenance

One of the big appeals of robot vacuums is that they cut the time you spend cleaning. Unfortunately, with the Q7 M5, I ended up spending more time not only cleaning my floors, but cleaning and maintaining the robot itself.

The dustbin fills quickly. By only holding 0.50 quarts and in a busy house full of people, dust, debris and pet hairs, we found ourselves emptying it every three or so cleans. Similarly, the 0.37-quart water tank is enough for a large kitchen but needs emptying after each use to avoid dirty water sitting in it for too long and leading to mold and mildew.

For all the convenience that comes with having a combined dust and water tank, you can’t just switch from one to the other in a single session because the dust and water mixes. This is highly unpleasant to clean and dispose of. In fact, I recommend cleaning and properly drying the water tank before vacuuming – and vice versa – if you don’t want to deal with what I can only describe as a sticky, dusty paste.

The mop cloth must be washed and air-dried after each time it mops the floors, too. The physical act of doing so isn’t difficult – you can just remove the cloth, rinse and put it in the washer – however, because of its poor performance, any wet spills (including the ketchup and mustard from my standardized tests) have a tendency to work their way into the roller underneath. This was not only unpleasant to manually clean, it also meant that I found marks on my carpet for a couple of days following the test because I’d failed to get rid of it all from the roller before setting it on its next vacuum cycle. This undermines the convenience factor significantly.

By comparison, higher-end models with self-cleaning docks can go days or even weeks without needing hands-on maintenance. With the Q7 M5, intervention is needed every time. If low-maintenance convenience is your priority, this robot will disappoint.

How does the Roborock Q7 M5 compare?

At $240-300, the Roborock Q7 M5 is the most affordable robot vacuum we've tested (that's still readily available online).

The Dreame D9 Max Gen 2, sold for around $150-300 depending on promotions, offers similar navigation and suction strengths, although mopping requires the same level of manual upkeep. We're still working on our review of this model but its price puts it at the same entry-level range.

Doubling in price is the eufy X10 Pro Omni, our favorite mid-range robot vacuum. It surprised us on test with good vacuuming and mopping abilities, and if you buy a $21.99 replacement roller from eufy, it never wraps with hair.

Should you buy the Roborock Q7 M5?

The Roborock Q7 M5 looks smarter on paper than it performs in real life. Its LiDAR mapping and app are genuinely impressive for the price, giving you room-by-room control, no-go zones, and customizable suction and water settings that rival expensive models. Navigation is reliable, and on carpet it manages crumbs and medium debris without much fuss.

However, where it falls down is its consistency. Fine dust on hard floors, larger debris like cereal, and anything beyond light surface dirt it struggles with. Mopping is basic and tends to smear rather than scrub, and because there’s no self-cleaning or self-emptying dock, you’ll be emptying the bin, washing the mop cloth, and cleaning the rollers by hand after almost every use. Noise levels are also higher than expected, which makes timing your cleans important if you don’t want to be disturbed.

At $240-300, it undercuts premium rivals by quite some margin, and if your goal is accurate mapping paired with a good app and complementary cleaning skills, it delivers. But for busy households, pet owners, or anyone looking for a truly hands-free clean, you may find it adds to your plate rather than clearing it.

How I tested the Roborock Q7 M5

I tested the Roborock Q7 M5 over two weeks in a family home with hard floors, carpets, two children, and a dog. I ran standardized vacuuming tests using sugar, lentils, and Cheerios on both hard floors and carpets, and standardized mopping tests using ketchup and mustard stains. Noise levels were measured with the DecibelX app.

I also used the robot in everyday cleaning, tracking how often I needed to vacuum or mop manually. Maintenance was monitored by recording how frequently I needed to empty, clean, or untangle the robot. This combination of controlled tests and real-world use allowed me to achieve good insight into its performance and practicality.

For more floorcare inspiration, read our tested guides to the best Dyson vacuums and the best vacuum-mop combos.

Robot vacuum cleaners already feel like a step into the future. These small, slick devices roam around the house, vacuuming and mopping whilst we go about our days.

But now, they're becoming even more helpful, as Dreame's latest model can actually climb steps up to 2.36 inches in height. And for a limited time, the Dreame X50 Ultra is discounted by a whopping $440.

The beauty of the Labor Day sale season means you can bring home one of the most technologically advanced and best robot vacuums at a steal of a price.

Why I'm buying the Dreame X50 Ultra at this bargain price

The Dreame X50 Ultra is the first (and only) robot vacuum to successfully climb steps and thresholds, up to 2.36 inches in height. For anybody that's used a robot vacuum to clean and mop your floors, you'll appreciate this is a gamechanger to avoid having to pick it up every time it gets stuck.

It's a major step, no pun intended, forward for robots becoming completely hands-free.

Technological advancements aside, this is also an excellent robot vacuum in terms of its features and spec. It boasts 20,000Pa suction, which is among the strongest in the market – our current best-on-test, the eufy Omni S1 Pro, has only 8,000Pa suction in comparison.

It has five cleaning modes, whether you want to mop hard floors, vacuum carpets without wetting them, or provide ultra-deep cleaning. And if you're looking for the best vacuum for pet hair, the X50 Ultra promises to tackle hair up to 11.8 inches long without getting tangled.

We're still in the process of fully testing the Dreame X50 Ultra, but it's shaping up to be one of the strongest options out there. Grab it now before the price shoots back up.

The Dreame X50 Ultra is available for $1,259.99 at Dreame.

More to shop

Still browsing? Here are a few extra options to consider from our rigorous testing.

All prices were correct at the time of publication.

For more floorcare inspiration, check out our guides to the best Dyson vacuums and the best vacuum-mop combos.

Usually, you'll never find me recommending a budget vacuum cleaner. I've tested 29 during my time as Homes & Gardens' home tech editor and the cheap ones never do the trick. That is, except for the small but mighty Ultenic U16 Flex.

And right now, the Ultenic U16 Flex is available for just $139.99 at Amazon with code B0CZNTRLJB. It's cheap, practical, and perfect for dorm rooms and small apartments.

It also has features that you typically only find in Dyson vacuums and the best cordless vacuums, while costing less than a quarter of the premium price they charge for. I'd act fast on this if I didn't already own it myself.

Why I always recommend the affordable Ultenic U16 Flex for dorm rooms and small spaces

The Ultenic U16 Flex is one of the best Dyson alternatives that we've tested, thanks to its Dyson-esque green laser that illuminates dust and fine debris that the naked eye can't see. It isn't a vacuum gimmick whatsoever, it helps show when the floor is completely clean.

And fortunately, this cheap vacuum is powerful enough that you can see the floor become spotless. It's one of the best vacuums for hardwood floors if you're on a budget, as the brushroll is safe on delicate surfaces but thorough enough to pick up debris from between floor panels.

It's also one of the most lightweight vacuums we've tested, weighing just 3.75 pounds, and it takes up hardly any space when storing your vacuum.

The wand can bend to reach under furniture more easily (and snaps back together in quite a satisfying way). And after testing it over two weeks, the brushroll never once wrapped with hair, making it a great pick for one of the best vacuums for pet hair.

The Ultenic U16 Flex is available at Amazon for $139.99 with code B0CZNTRLJB.

More to shop

Still shopping around? We've tested 79 of the best vacuum cleaners at Homes & Gardens and can recommend plenty more for dorms and small spaces. All prices correct at time of publication.

For more tried-and-tested vacuum inspiration, our guides of the best multi-surface vacuums and the best robot vacuums can help you decide.

Skip the steep price tag of a premium vacuum cleaner – you can clean your hard floors just as effectively for $100s less with the right vacuum-mop combo.

Right now, the Shark VACMOP is just $56.84 at Walmart, offering powerful suction and mopping in one sleek device. It uses disposable pads, so your hands stay clean, and it’s designed for quick, efficient floor care.

Hard floors like hardwood and vinyl don’t need high-tech tools to stay spotless. In our experience, one of the best vacuum-mop combos, like the VACMOP, will cut your cleaning time in half – and save you serious money.

Why I'm snapping up this Shark VACMOP deal at Walmart

The VACMOP is essentially a complete hard floor cleaning system, combining spray mopping and vacuuming to remove debris and sanitize your floors. It's perfect if, like me, you're too busy to spend unnecessary time cleaning the kitchen.

From the 250+ hours I've spent testing the best vacuums for hardwood floors, I can confirm that you really don't need high suction. People pay premiums for vacuums that can pull stubborn mess out of thick carpets, but if you don't need that, you can save $100s.

It's also a savior for small spaces and dorms, as the tiny cleaner takes up hardly any storage space, especially compared to storing a vacuum and mop separately. The VACMOP has 'no-touch disposal,' so you can get rid of dirty mop pads without getting your hands dirty.

It's compact, easy to use, and combines two (quite boring) cleaning tasks into one swift cleaning session. And with this discount, that's a no-brainer.

The Shark VACMOP is available at Walmart for $56.84, discounted from $99.99.

More to shop

As Homes & Gardens' resident floorcare expert, I can recommend many more excellent cleaning gadgets that will transform your home cleaning. All prices correct at time of publication.

Next, learn the differences between mopping vs wet vacuuming to find out what your floors need.

I was excited to review the Dreame R20 as it had all the hallmarks of a powerful cordless stick without the high price point of its Dyson and Shark competitors.

It's also a great smart home cleaning brand, and as someone who tests vacuums professionally, I'm always keen to see how the best cordless vacuums can benefit those who rely on them for powerful home cleaning.

I tested the Dreame R20 in our dedicated test center and a local pet shelter to find out whether it's worth your dollars.

The one-minute review

The Dreame R20 is perfect for cleaning hard floors, with smart features that make it an excellent alternative to Dyson's expensive vacuums. It can detect dust volume and floor type (and adjust the suction accordingly), and it has a handy graphic that shows when an area is completely clean.

Its suction is surprisingly strong, but it struggles when vacuuming pet hair from carpet, and it easily becomes blocked when cleaning high volumes of debris.

These design oversights overshadow the cordless vacuum's strong suction, so I wouldn't recommend the Dreame R20 to those with busy, messy homes with kids or pets.

Dreame R20: Specifications

Dreame R20: Design and features

As I've come to expect from Dreame, the R20 has a premium feel with its sleek aesthetic and animated screen display. It has the core features you'll find in any cordless stick, with additional features that make it work effectively as one of the best Dyson alternatives.

Floor sensors and automatic power adjustment were pioneered by the best Dyson vacuums, but other brands have since taken note and implemented them into their own. It's a small but useful touch: Sensors detect carpet and high amounts of dust, and the vacuum will up the suction power to clean more effectively.

Balancing suction power and battery life can be a challenge for cordless vacuum manufacturers, so this feature ensures you have the right power levels when needed, and are preserving runtime when not. It certainly isn't a vacuum feature gimmick.

Another Dyson-influenced design note is the two separate floorheads, one with a soft roller and one with a bristled brushroll:

Having two separate floorheads gives you specialized cleaning across carpets and floors as bristles are needed for carpet, but can be too harsh on certain hard floors such as hardwood and tile (my vacuum jargon buster explains these terms).

The soft roller is also ideal for capturing fine dust and common household allergens, but weirdly, Dreame has only installed a light on the bristled floorhead.

Floor lights can be a tremendous help to illuminate hidden dust particles that you normally wouldn't see, but they never tend to work that well on carpet, so I'm surprised by this design choice.

I tested the R20's airflow using an anemometer, and it reaches 8.7mph in normal mode and 20.8mph on the highest setting. That's higher than the Dyson V11, which has some of the highest suction we've ever seen in a cordless stick.

The R20's touted 90-minute runtime stat is impressive (compared to the average 60 minutes), but on test, the battery went down much faster than expected.

It can likely achieve 90 minutes if you're on the lowest suction mode with no motorized attachments, but otherwise, you're looking at about 40-50 minutes of cleaning before you will need to stop and recharge, which will take four hours.

What is the Dreame R20 like to use?

Overall, the Dreame R20 is responsive, lightweight, and mostly effective at tackling different cleaning tasks – but it has a few drawbacks worth noting.

I found it great at vacuuming modest messes, but it struggled a bit when it came to large amounts of debris and pet hair on carpet.

It's powered using a trigger, but for those who don't enjoy having to hold it down for the entire time you're cleaning, you can lock it using a button on the screen. I like this, as you have the option for both quick cleaning tasks and longer sessions. The trigger is also instant and powers up the vacuum faster than I've seen in other models.

The blue light emitted from the bristled floorhead is somewhat effective at revealing hidden dust, but nowhere near the level of helpful illumination that you'd see in the Dyson V12 Detect Slim, for example. It's a major downside in my opinion that there isn't a light on the soft floorhead.

I'm a fan of the display, with its graphic that changes from red to orange to green to represent dirt levels quickly and visibly.

I found that it glides across floors smoothly, and the wheels are safe to use on delicate hard floors, but the floorhead can wiggle a bit when moving. It can also be hard to turn when reaching far, such as when cleaning under furniture, which is already one of the hardest cleaning tasks.

At 63.2 to 72 decibels, the R20 is as loud as most cordless vacuums. I did find the sound itself a little irritating, however, as it makes a mechanical whir that's different from the usual spinning motor sound that is perhaps easier to hear (or maybe that's just me).

It also overheats. After 10 minutes of intermittent vacuuming in both auto and turbo mode, the battery became too hot and needed a break.

Another time, the vacuum was warm to the touch three minutes after I'd finished vacuuming on turbo mode. I worry that this poor heat management could impact durability down the line.

Dreame R20: Flour and sugar test

I tested the Dreame R20 using a half cup of flour and sugar on carpet, linoleum and hardwood. This tests how well the vacuum can handle fine particles like dust and dead skin, while also working as a visual test to see whether any mess gets left behind or stuck in internal parts.

On hardwood and linoleum, the R20 had no issues vacuuming everything in one. It automatically detected the high dust levels and increased the suction, and picked up everything between the cracks. Impressive!

On carpet, it was able to clear everything after four passes. At this price point, I've tested vacuums that can do this in one or two passes, and some that do it in more than 10 – so its performance was good, but nothing special.

I also noticed that the vacuum lifts itself when pulling backwards, almost as if the brushroll can’t handle moving in that direction and creates distance between itself and the floor. It might not be the best vacuum for carpets.

Dreame R20: Pantry test

I tested the Dreame R20 using a cup of cereal and lentils on carpet, linoleum and hardwood. This tests its ability to handle small and large debris, and to see whether it can vacuum high volumes of mess or fling it across the floor.

On linoleum and hardwood, the Dreame R20 struggled. I used the soft floorhead and pieces kept getting stuck between the roller and scraper, limiting its performance.

It was better with the bristled floorhead, but a significant amount of debris was left behind. I then took the floorhead off to see if that would help:

This helped, but instead of pieces getting stuck in the floorhead, they clogged the inlet valve before the dustbin.

It was fixable, but involved removing the dustbin and clearing the blockage multiple times. It's worth noting that this is an extreme test to see what the vacuum is capable of, so unless you're often vacuuming large piles of debris (pet kibble or litter, for example), this shouldn't be too much of an issue in daily use.

I also ran another test where I vacuumed only lentils using the soft floorhead, and it was flawless. I can still happily recommend it as one of the best vacuums for hardwood floors, as long as you know how to avoid overloading it.

On carpet, it struggled again, but I have now learned the best way to use the Dreame R20. After I finished filming the above video, cereal and lentils started pouring out of the vacuum. I then tried a different approach, and one of the things I've learned from vacuuming at a pet shelter is to use slower vacuuming.

If you wait for the light to turn from red to green before moving onto the next patch, the R20 can handle high volumes of mess. It needs to vacuum bit by bit to be able to work effectively.

After doing this, I found it to be much less of a disaster with debris.

Dreame R20: Pet hair test

I tested the Dreame R20 at Bristol ARC, a cat and dog shelter local to me. It's a key test to see how the vacuum can handle pet hair, as well as high volumes of mess from a busy environment.

Overall, the Dreame R20 is good at vacuuming pet hair. On hard floors in particular, it picked up pet hair in one pass without fail – and without it wrapping around the roller.

On an entrance mat (one of the trickiest tests our vacuums go through), the R20 was able to clear most of the visible hairs using turbo mode, but it couldn't clear everything after I did five more passes. This is better than most cordless sticks I've tested, as I'm yet to see any vacuum clear every strand of hair.

On medium-pile carpet and thick rugs, it can pick up some hair, but quite a lot is left behind. Of course, carpet fibers are one of the reasons why pet hair is so hard to vacuum, but so much hair was left behind that I can't recommend the Dreame R20 to pet owners with carpeted homes.

But if your home has only hard floors, this could be your next best vacuum for pet hair, which doesn't cost too much and has helpful smart features.

Dreame R20: Attachments test

The Dreame R20 comes with a mini motorized brush, one of the best vacuum attachments for pet hair when cleaning upholstery and pet beds.

It's amazing. It had no trouble whatsoever removing pet hair from sofas and padded chairs (which have proved difficult to clean in the past), and it's flexible to adapt to the angle you're cleaning.

The combination tool is designed similarly to Dyson's, as a dual dusting brush and surface cleaner. But the dusting brush doesn't pull back enough to avoid getting caught, making the surface cleaner attachment almost redundant.

Dreame R20: Setup and maintenance

Before using the vacuum, I charged it up to 100% which took two and a half hours (it started at 40%). Then, I attached the vacuum to the wand and floorhead, and it was ready to go.

You have the option of a wall mount for easier vacuum storage, and it even comes with a template sticker to make sure you're certain that the lines are straight.

Emptying the dustbin to avoid overfilling the vacuum is effortless. Dust drops out by itself with minimal blow back, and a small lip within the dustbin helps to avoid dust and hair wrapping around the pre-motor filter.

As I mentioned above, I'm not massively confident about the R20's durability as it overheats so easily, but otherwise, it's easy to take apart and clean each component.

How does the Dreame R20 compare?

The Dreame R20 is priced at $449.99 at Dreame, but is often on offer for around $200-300. At full price, I would recommend other vacuums instead, but if you find it discounted, there aren't many that are better.

I tested the Dreame R20 alongside the Dyson V11, which is occasionally discounted to around $449.99 at Dyson (or $629.99 at full price). This cordless vacuum is better in almost every way – with stronger suction, easier use, and a more durable design. My full Dyson V11 review explains why I recommend it so strongly.

Another similarly-priced vacuum is the Shark Cordless PowerDetect, available for $449.99 at Shark (but often discounted to around $330). This is our favorite non-Dyson cordless, and its suction is strong enough to pull cat fur from carpet. Read our full Shark Cordless PowerDetect review to learn more.

A budget vacuum I love to recommend is the Ultenic U16 Flex. It's available for around $130-$179 at Amazon, depending on promotions, and can clean surprisingly well considering. It's certainly weaker than the Dreame R20, but if you only have hard floors, the Ultenic is a great way to save money. My full Ultenic U16 Flex review shows what it can and can't do.

Should you buy the Dreame R20?

The main takeaway from testing the Dreame R20 is: It's perfect for light cleaning, but struggles with busier messes. I wouldn't recommend it to homes with kids, pets or lots of carpets.

But smaller homes with predominantly smooth floors will benefit from having a lightweight vacuum with smart features and a sleek design.

How I tested the Dreame R20

I tested the Dreame R20 for a full day at our dedicated test center, using standardized substances across carpet, linoleum and hardwood.

I then tested the Dreame R20 for a full day at a local pet shelter to assess its performance on pet hair and busy messes.

Next, learn how to choose a vacuum cleaner that's suited to your home, and consider pairing it with one of the best robot vacuums for truly transformative cleaning.

iRobot has announced the new Roomba Max 705 Combo, the latest and most advanced robot from one of the global leaders in robot vacuum cleaners.

It introduces a 'first-of-its-kind' cover to protect your carpets when transitioning from mopping to vacuuming, and its suction is said to be 175x stronger than iRobot's predecessors.

As a professional vacuum tester, I'm intrigued. iRobot has long been a favorite at Homes & Gardens, but the brand's latest release disappointed us on test, so I look forward to seeing whether the new Max 705 Combo could shape up to be the next best robot vacuum.

The Roomba Max 705 Combo promises powerful 2-in-1 cleaning

iRobot says that the 705 Combo's suction power is an incredible '175x stronger' than previous ones in its range. This is compared to the Roomba 600 series, which came out back in 2010 and shows a marked evolution for the brand.

'The Roomba Max 705 Combo combines more than three decades of our category expertise with the latest technology to deliver an elevated cleaning performance that no other 2-in-1 offers today,' says Gary Cohen, CEO of iRobot.

It's also said to have iRobot's most advanced mopping system yet – the PowerSpin Roller Mop with PerfectEdge – and promises deep corner cleaning and dry carpets thanks to its new mop cover, to help mop floors the right way without spreading dirty water around.

Like previous Roombas, the Max 705 Combo uses AI technology to build a 3D map of your home and identify obstacles to avoid – this includes pet accidents, which is vital if you're looking for the best robot vacuum for pet hair.

A major upgrade is the 75 days of self-emptying, heated mop washing and drying, self-cleaning, and auto-refilling that the new cleaning station can provide.

Robot vacuums are smart home must-haves if you prefer to be hands-off with your cleaning, and having more time between emptying and refilling your station is a nice touch (robot vacuums typically store dirty contents for up to 60 days).

My initial thoughts as a vacuum tester

Roombas certainly stand out from the 19 robot vacuums we've tested at Homes & Gardens. For a while the iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ was our all-time favorite, banishing pet hair and dust while looking stylish in the process.

But the most recent iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max sadly didn't live up the brand's reputation, and we've since turned to other brands as our go-to recommendations, most notably the eufy Omni S1 Pro.

eufy robot vacuums have been a game-changer for pet hair cleanup, too, even in a home with constant shedding fur.

I'd be delighted to see the new Roomba Max 705 Combo steal the limelight again, but there's no denying that the market has caught up at a rapid rate when it comes to automated home cleaning technology found in robot vacuums.

Dreame's latest Aqua10 Roller, for example, has already devised the mop cover feature that's a first in the Max 705 Combo, and the Dreame can also clean its mop on the go for continuous fresh water on your floors. It also has a head-turning 30,000Pa suction, which is higher than any robot we've tested (iRobot hasn't announced the exact suction power of the Max 705 Combo).

We've also seen a Roborock robot that can pick up objects, showing the interesting new ways that this high-tech market is evolving.

iRobot's 'AI-driven' obstacle avoidance and mapping is standard in most robot vacuums, and it's one of the main ways to use AI at home. But while this feature isn't rare, we have found that Roombas excel in this department, and I'm excited to see whether the new Max 705 Combo can make things even more streamlined.

Ultimately, Roombas may have paved the way for robot vacuum innovation, but other brands have taken note and devised their ways to master automated cleaning. The competition is strong, so I'm excited to get my hands on the new Max 705 Combo to see how it fares.

The iRobot Roomba Max 705 Combo is available for pre-sale in the UK and EU to ship in the next 1-2 weeks, and will be available in the US later this year.

What to shop

In the meantime, here are the robot vacuums we've tested and recommend for spotless floors with minimal effort. All prices were correct at the time of publication.

Next, learn how to choose a robot vacuum cleaner, and the robot vacuum mistakes you should avoid at all costs.

Ultenic has long been my go-to recommendation for a budget vacuum brand with surprisingly strong offerings. I don't usually advise buying budget vacuums, but Ultenic has been the exception thanks to impressive suction and premium-like features.

So, when the brand-new Ultenic U20 was announced, I was excited to get my hands on it. It's promised to be the more powerful successor to the U16 Flex – one of my favorite budget alternatives to Dyson vacuums.

I put the Ultenic U20 through its paces in a local pet shelter and our dedicated test center, to see if it's worth your time as one of the best cordless vacuums on a budget.

The one-minute review

The Ultenic U20 cleans well when you consider its low price point, but it falls short in some major areas that shouldn't be ignored. It struggles to vacuum pet hair from carpets, and it gets clogged easily when cleaning large amounts of debris.

But unless your home has carpets and pets, this is a great choice to save hundreds of dollars on a vacuum cleaner. It can clean hard floors with no issues, and it's strong enough to vacuum fine dust from between the panels of wooden floors.

If you need something stronger, I'd recommend the Bissell SurfaceSense Allergen Pet Lift-Off, the Shark Cordless PowerDetect, or the Dyson V11 that cost a little bit more. All performed better on test.

• Buy the Ultenic U20 for $219.99 at Ultenic.

Ultenic U20: Specifications

Ultenic U20: Design and features

Three of the U20's main design features are displayed on its floorhead, with a key one being its 'GreenEye Technology' that promises to illuminate hidden dust. It's essentially a green light that shines close to the ground to show dust and hair that you can't normally see. It's fairly common in recent cordless vacuums – but it has to be done right to avoid being one of many vacuum feature gimmicks.

The best Dyson vacuums paved the way with laser illumination to reveal hidden dust, and up until recently, the Ultenic U16 Flex (the predecessor to the U20) was the only vacuum that had managed to recreate it. But sadly, the green light on the U20 is positioned higher up on the floorhead, and is notably less effective at seeking out dust.

You can see this in the video below from when vacuuming at the pet shelter, as the light didn't illuminate any debris or hair more clearly. When I looked closer, there was mess there that was just as visible with or without the light:

That being said, the floorhead itself is bigger and sturdier than the U16. The U20 can also stand up by itself, which is always useful in a cordless vacuum for easier vacuum storage, avoiding having to lean it against the wall or screwing in a mount – both of which can result in you having to patch up your walls.

It also has a dusting brush built into the vacuum unit. So rather than removing the wand then attaching the cleaning tool, you can save yourself from carrying it around the house by simply extending it:

Pet owners and allergy sufferers will be grateful for the HEPA filter, which is essential when shopping for the best vacuums for allergies as it captures pollen, dander and dust that can trigger symptoms. It comes with a spare replacement filter, but it would be more sustainable (and avoid recurring costs) if the HEPA filter was washable.

The U20 can bend at the wand to reach under furniture more easily, similar to the Shark Cordless PowerDetect which is one of our favorites on test.

You get three suction modes: floor, carpet, and turbo. Each is a step-up in suction power from the last, and is a great way to reserve the higher power usage for areas that need it best, and preserve your battery when cleaning easy hard floors.

I tested the airflow for each suction mode using an anemometer. It reaches 8.5 mph on floor mode, 9.6 mph on carpet, and 15.6 mph on turbo. This is higher than I've seen in some cordless vacuums that cost more (such as the Levoit LVAC-300), and significantly lower than premium vacuums (such as the Dyson V11). So at this price, I'd say this is relatively strong.

It's powered using a trigger, but instead of requiring constant pressing, the trigger works as an on/off button. This helps avoid fatigue when cleaning, especially for those with limited mobility.

I'm a fan of the bright gold and purple colorway, and its another example of Ultenic taking design notes from Dyson, making them some of the best Dyson alternatives in this regard.

What is the Ultenic U20 like to use?

The Ultenic U20 weighs just 3.75lbs, making it one of the most lightweight vacuums we've tested (cordless vacuums average around 5-8lbs). Its flexibility isn't to be ignored either, as you can easily weave into tight spaces and reach under furniture thanks to its ability to lie close to the ground and bend at the wand. If it wasn't for the battery positioning, it would be able to lie almost completely flat.

I tested noise levels using the DecibelX app, and it ranges from 61.3 to 72 decibels, depending on suction mode and whether the motorized floorhead is attached. This is a little quieter than your average cordless stick (it's usually around 65 to 75 decibels), and notably quieter than the best upright vacuums which can go louder than 80 decibels.

Its cleaning power is good for the price, but there's still a lot to be desired. It has no problem vacuuming hard floors like hardwood and linoleum, but it struggles a little when tackling carpets – particularly if there's a high volume of debris (more on this below).

You can choose between suction modes using the touch control screen, and it's positioned helpfully so that you can do it with the same hand that's vacuuming. I love this design thought, as it keeps your other hand free to move objects out of the way whilst cleaning.

If you're vacuuming on 'floor' mode, when you turn it off it will do a 2-second burst of high suction to pull any internal debris into the dustbin. It's a nice touch to avoid your vacuum losing suction power by helping to prevent blockages.

I found that when using turbo mode, the handle can get warm. Usually, vacuums are designed to avoid this by limiting heat exposure to internal parts and blowing out cool air, and I'm concerned for the vacuum's durability if its external parts are heating up just from using it normally.

I also found that the U20 can be a little stiff when vacuuming carpets and rugs.

• Buy the Ultenic U20 for $219.99 at Ultenic.

Ultenic U20: Flour and sugar test

I tested the Ultenic U20 using a half cup of flour and sugar in our dedicated test center. This test demonstrates the vacuum's ability to pick up fine powder and small powders, similar to the dust and dead skin you'll find at home. It's also an effective visual test, highlighting where mess has been left behind or become stuck in the internal parts.

On hardwood and linoleum, the Ultenic U20 picked up almost everything in its first pass on floor mode, then carpet mode (in the video above) was able to get those bits left behind between the wooden panels. This is strong performance, as more expensive cordless vacuums have left more behind, and it could easily be one of the best vacuums for hardwood floors if you're on a budget, especially with its safe rubber wheels.

On carpet, the Ultenic U20 impressed once again. On carpet mode, it cleared all visible powder after one forward-and-backward pass. When using turbo mode (in the video above) – it was almost entirely cleared in one forward pass. Cordless vacuums don't typically perform too well in this test, especially when you compare a budget Ultenic vacuum against a $750 Dyson.

Ultenic U20: Pantry test

I tested the Ultenic U20 using a cup of cereal and lentils to see how it handles debris of different sizes. Some vacuums crush the cereal down, some fling it across the floor, and some aren't able to pick it up at all.

On hardwood and linoleum, the Ultenic U20 had varying success across the different suction modes:

• On floor mode, it mostly pushed the pieces forward and vacuumed very little.
• On carpet mode, a few pieces were pushed forward, one was flung to the side, and two fell out – but it picked up almost all of it in the first pass.
• And on turbo mode, it incredibly picked up everything in one and nothing leaked out.

On carpet, the results were less successful. The vacuum powered down and a red light indicated a blockage, so I had to remove the dustbin and see that cereal pieces were getting stuck in the inlet valve between the wand and the dustbin.

This happened two or three more times, and the high volume of mess resulted in the vacuum losing suction power each time. It was quite a messy affair, with cereal pouring out of the floorhead and the dustbin opening every time I tried to unblock it (my vacuum jargon buster explains these terms).

Now – we test with high volumes of debris to see exactly what a vacuum is capable of in the most extreme cases, but unless you’re frequently vacuuming large amounts of pet kibble, for instance, then this shouldn't be an issue. And if so, an easy fix is to vacuum bit-by-bit to avoid overloading the small dustbin opening.

But it's certainly worth taking into account as, over time, it's possible that blockages will happen more and more frequently.

Ultenic U20: Pet hair test

I tested the Ultenic U20 at Bristol ARC, a local cat and dog shelter, to see how well it can handle pet hair across different floor types, as well as the busy mess of an environment with high foot traffic.

I would say the U20's performance on pet hair is its biggest disappointment. On hard floors, it had no problem picking up dust, stones and hair in a single pass. But on carpets, it didn't do much at all.

Barely anything was picked up from the entrance mat. Granted, this is one of the most difficult cleaning tasks as the bumpy, high-friction material poses a challenge for most vacuums. But almost every hair was still there after repeated passes, and many of them didn't even move. It cleaned some feathers and loose debris, but the brushroll doesn’t seem strong enough to agitate the fabric.

When vacuuming carpet using carpet mode - the performance was OK. All debris was vacuumed in one or two passes, but it picked up maybe 60% of visible hairs while the small, stubborn ones were left behind.

I wouldn't recommend it as the best vacuum for pet hair unless your home has exclusively hard floors.

Ultenic U20: Attachments test

Having a built-in dusting brush is handy for quick dusting while you're vacuuming around your house, and it was great at cleaning the pet shelter's baseboards and shelves.

But when it comes to tight spaces, it became frustrating. When trying to vacuum a window sill, the large dustbin blocked the brush from reaching the corner (as seen in the above video).

The only other tool is the crevice tool, which doesn't do a great deal when trying to clean your windows. It would be great to see Ultenic introduce an upholstery tool or motorized brush, to help remove pet hair from fabric and sofas more easily.

Ultenic U20: Setup and maintenance

Before using the Ultenic U20 you have to wait for the battery to fully charge. For me, this took two hours and five minutes, then I attached the battery to the vacuum, attached the wand and floorhead – and it was ready to go.

There isn't too much vacuum maintenance aside from regularly cleaning the vacuum, and as the dustbin is completely removable, this is easier than with other cordless sticks as you can clean it more thoroughly.

After testing at the pet shelter however, barely any pet hair fell out of the dustbin when emptying. I had to go in and pull it out myself – so if you're often vacuuming pet hair, you might want to avoid this model.

It's a nice touch that Ultenic include a replacement HEPA vacuum filter, but I prefer washable filters that don't need replacing, like with the Dyson V12 Detect Slim, as they're better financially and sustainably.

How does the Ultenic U20 compare?

The Ultenic U20 comfortably sits at the lower end of the vacuum market, costing $219.99 at Ultenic. It's the most expensive cordless vacuum from Ultenic thus far.

The Ultenic U16 Flex [at Amazon] is the U20's predecessor, and has been my go-to recommendation for those looking for a budget cordless. It's surprisingly powerful considering it costs around $150 – it doesn't achieve a great deal on carpet, but it's powerful enough for homes with hard floors. It's also the only non-Dyson with a dust-revealing laser that actually works. My full Ultenic U16 Flex review goes into more details.

Another great budget vacuum is the Bissell SurfaceSense Allergen Pet Lift-Off, which also sells for $219.99 when Bissell runs promotions. It performs better than the Ultenic U20 in every single way, except for the fact that it's corded, so you don't get the same freedom of movement. Our full Bissell SurfaceSense Allergen Pet Lift-Off review reveals more.

If you're strictly cordless-only, I'd personally recommend spending a little more and going for the Shark Cordless PowerDetect. It's often on sale for around $319.99, and for that extra $100 you're getting a significant increase in suction, floorhead efficacy, durability, and pet hair performance. Read more in our full Shark Cordless PowerDetect review.

If the Shark Cordless PowerDetect isn't on sale however, and you need a vacuum now, go for the Dyson V11. It costs similar to the Shark and is perhaps the strongest cordless vacuums at that price, as you'll see in my full Dyson V11 review.

Should you buy the Ultenic U20?

The Ultenic U20 certainly has drawbacks, most notably its poor performance on pet hair and how easily it becomes blocked. But if you're looking for a lightweight vacuum that can tackle your home's hard floors, this is a fantastic way to achieve clean floors while spending a fraction of what you would elsewhere.

If you live in a messy, busy home, I wouldn't recommend this. Instead, look at the best corded vacuums to better equip yourself.

• Buy the Ultenic U20 for $219.99 at Ultenic.

How I tested the Ultenic U20

I tested the Ultenic U20 for a full day at our dedicated test center, using standardized substances on carpet, hardwood and linoleum. I then tested it for a day at a local pet shelter where I vacuumed pet hair from low-pile carpet, medium-pile carpet, thick rugs, and hard floors.

Still on the hunt for your next vacuum? Our ultimate best vacuum cleaners guide will help you decide, or our dedicated best robot vacuums guide can take chore time off your hands.

We've tested almost every Dyson vacuum at Homes & Gardens, and they tend to top most of our vacuum guides thanks to market-leading suction and useful features.

The Dyson V11 was one of the final models for us to test, so I put it through its paces in our test center and a local pet shelter to see if it lives up to the brand's reputation.

I own two Dysons and have spent more than 250+ hours testing vacuums, and overall, I'm seriously impressed. Read on to find out why this is one of the best Dyson vacuums you can buy, with videos from my rigorous testing.

The one-minute review

The Dyson V11 boasts stronger cleaning performance than most cordless vacuums at this price range. I used it to banish everything from small powders to large debris on all floor types, and I tested it in a pet shelter where it had no issues whatsoever plucking hair from thick carpets.

As it's a Dyson – it also has a straightforward and ergonomic design. It doesn't take much to figure out how to use this vacuum and its three suction modes to the fullest, and those with limited mobility will enjoy that it can clean almost flawlessly while being lightweight enough to easily carry up and down stairs.

Dyson V11: Specifications

Dyson V11: Design and features

The V11 has all the hallmarks of a Dyson vacuum: high suction power, a lightweight and straightforward design, and a floorhead that avoids hair tangling.

In fact, the V11 has the third highest suction of any of Dyson's best cordless vacuums with 185 air watts. Only the Dyson V15 Detect and Dyson Gen5detect boast higher (250 and 261 air watts respectively) – and these are the two best vacuums we've tested (but they cost $100s more).

This translates to a consistently strong performance when vacuuming both carpets and smooth floors, and its whole-machine HEPA filtration allows it capture common household allergens with ease.

I tested the V11's airflow using an anemometer and it reaches a whopping 19.6mph in boost mode, 11.1mph in medium and 9.8mph in eco. For reference, other cordless sticks tend to have lower stats, such as the Levoit LVAC-300 reaching 12.3mph at maximum speed.

It also has one of our favorite-ever vacuum floorheads, the Motorbar, that is a key feature of cordless Dysons, picking up all manner of dirt and hair without anything getting tangled in the brushes.

Its runtime is stated as 60 minutes but, on test, it can run up to 67 minutes on eco mode without the motorized floorhead attached. On medium mode it averaged around 37 minutes, and boost mode only has a maximum runtime of 15 minutes – but it can't run for that long without overheating first.

You can choose suction mode from the LCD screen, that also displays remaining runtime and any faults you should be aware of (clean your filter or dislodge a blockage, for example).

What is the Dyson V11 like to use?

The Dyson V11 is remarkably easy to use. Dyson has evidently dedicated time to making this vacuum as ergonomic as possible, minimizing how often we need to do anything other than vacuum.

Almost every time, it picks up everything in one pass. It's one of the best multi-surface vacuums in this regard, as it competently handles mess from carpets and floors while rarely leaving anything behind. I tested it in a local pet shelter, too, and its performance seriously impressed me (more on that below).

It can maneuver easily, getting between chair legs or passing from soft to hard flooring with little fuss. Less expensive cordless vacuums can struggle here by losing grip and skipping over parts of the floor, so it's great to see the V11 have no issues.

I love that you can change suction mode using the same hand that's holding the vacuum, allowing you to clear cables and objects out of the way while cleaning.

I tested the noise levels using the DecibelX app and it got as loud as 80.2 decibels at the highest setting, and as quiet as 65 decibels on eco mode with no motorized floorhead attached. That's fairly standard for most cordless vacuums.

I would prefer if there was a light on the floorhead, as many cheaper cordless vacuums now have this feature to better illuminate what's on your floors. It also doesn't have a floorhead with a soft roller, an essential feature of the best vacuums for hardwood floors and one you'll find in the Dyson V12 Detect Slim – which only costs $50 more.

Dyson V11: Flour and sugar test

I tested the Dyson V11 using a half cup of flour and sugar in our test center. This test shows how a vacuum cleaner can handle fine powders like dust and dander, and it's a great visual test as I can see what's been left behind on the floor or in the vacuum's parts.

On hardwood and linoleum, the Dyson V11 performed exactly as I'd hoped – which is, to say, excellently. The strong suction and fast-spinning brushroll had no issues vacuuming almost everything in one pass, only leaving the tiniest residue to be vacuumed on the pull back. I tested it on medium mode and didn't need to up it to boost mode, even though this mess is greater than what you'd usually find at home.

On carpet, it impressed once again when using all three suction modes. Medium picked up almost everything in one pass, and getting the rest on the pull back. Boost mode easily handled everything.

And surprisingly, it could pick up everything in eco mode. Some flour and sugar was flung upwards showing the loss in suction power, but it still cleared everything after 2-3 passes.

Dyson V11: Pantry test

I tested the Dyson V11 using one cup of cereal and lentils, to assess its performance when handling large debris. These high-volume messes aren't typical for an average household, but it helps us see exactly what the vacuum can handle, and whether it's able to crush down debris (such as pet kibble and food), fling it across the floor, or get stuck internally.

On hardwood and linoleum, I found that eco mode wasn't powerful enough for this volume of mess. Medium mode was strong enough to capture everything but the brushroll did fling pieces around. It didn’t take long to clear the remaining pieces however as it easily sucked in both large and small debris.

On carpet, the V11 was fantastic in all three suction modes:

• Medium: Almost everything was vacuumed in one pass, and the backwards pass then captured the few bits left behind
• Boost (seen in the above video): Relentless, could feel the vacuum suction itself to the carpet. All large cereal pieces were instantly destroyed and sucked up.
• Eco: Surprisingly capable, almost similar performance to medium except for a few extra lentils left behind, which took a few seconds to then vacuum afterwards.

I can happily recommend the Dyson V11 as one of the best vacuums for carpet.

Dyson V11: Pet hair test

I tested the Dyson V11 in a local cat and dog shelter, Bristol ARC, to see how well it can pet hair on different surfaces, along with the high volumes of mess from a busy environment.

Spending the day in the pet shelter with the Dyson V11 proved what I'd learned during standardized testing: This vacuum has outstanding performance. It cleaned pet hair from thick rugs and carpets, and I ended up using it to vacuum any mess that the other vacuums I was testing had left behind.

The entrance mat (in the above video) is the most difficult cleaning challenge at Bristol ARC, as the rough, high-friction surface traps all manner of dirt and hair. The V11 performed better than even some of the best corded vacuums here, pulling both short and long fur from the ridges.

More generally, there was nothing that the V11 couldn't reasonably clean. On hard floors, it cleared hair, dirt, dust, stones and everything else in one pass, every time. On low-pile carpet, I never needed to use boost mode to clear everything in one or two passes.

At no point did hair wrap around the brushroll, which is easily one of the main reasons why pet hair is so hard to vacuum. By the end of the day, there was maybe 5x as much hair in the dustbin compared to the cordless vacuums from Dreame and Ultenic that I was testing at the same time.

If you're looking for the best vacuum for pet hair, the Dyson V11 is a stand-out cordless choice.

Dyson V11: Attachments test

I'm more than familiar with what all the vacuum attachments do in Dyson's vacuums. They're some of the best vacuum attachments for pet hair that we've tested, and are super lightweight and easy to swap out.

With the V11, it's no different. My model came with a crevice tool and combination tool, and both of them proved effective when vacuuming the baseboards at the pet shelter, cleaning between sofa cushions, and most importantly: Pulling fur from thick, padded chairs.

The combination tool has a rugged, rubber strip that helps to agitate dirt and hair in fabrics, making it easy to vacuum pet hair from fabric, like pet beds.

Dyson V11: Setup and maintenance

It's recommended to wait until the vacuum is fully charged before using it for the first time. For me, the V11 arrived with 35% battery and took just over two hours to reach 100%, and Dyson states that charging it from 0% to 100% takes four and a half hours.

Otherwise, setting it up involves attaching the wand to the vacuum cleaner, then attaching the floorhead to the wand. It takes about a minute and then you're ready to clean your house.

In terms of maintenance, the Dyson V11 is a great choice as it has a washable, lifetime HEPA filter. Other vacuums require you to replace these over time, so being able to clean the Dyson vacuum filter fully by giving it a rinse and air drying it is much cheaper.

Most of the parts can be taken apart to be cleaned, except for the built-in dustbin. While other vacuum brands allow you to remove it for a complete clean, unfortunately the Dyson must be wiped from the inside.

Emptying the dustbin to avoid overfilling the vacuum is a breeze. Simply press the button and dust descends into the trash, with minimal blow back.

How does the Dyson V11 compare?

The Dyson V11 is priced at around $449.99 to $599.99, depending on model and any promotions. It's cheaper than Dyson's flagship models, but still more expensive than most cordless vacuums on the market.

The Dyson V12 Detect Slim costs around $50 more, and has all of Dyson's leading smart tech including a green laser that reveals dust that you can't normally see, and a sensor to automatically detect which suction mode is optimal. However, its suction is 35AW lower than the V11, and on test, I found the V11 was a better cleaner. Our full Dyson V12 Detect Slim review reveals more.

The Dyson V15 Detect is the perfect balance of function and smart tech. It has the same game-changing features as the V12 Detect Slim, while also having 250AW of suction power that is so immensely high that it rivals some of the best upright vacuums. My full Dyson V15 Detect review explains why it's the best vacuum we've tested.

Or for something a little cheaper, the Shark Cordless PowerDetect does things differently. It has a dual-brushroll floorhead, with both a soft roller and bristed brushroll to capture different-sized debris. It isn't as powerful as the V11, but it still did a fantastic job of vacuuming a cat hair-ridden carpet. Read more in our full Shark Cordless PowerDetect review.

Should you buy the Dyson V11?

It's hard to find faults with the Dyson V11. Its suction is powerful, providing the thorough clean you'd hope from this level of investment. It's easy to use, easy to empty, and its attachments are effective for different cleaning tasks around the house.

However, it's still a big investment, and when you compare it among the Dyson lineup you don't have to spend much more for a big increase in suction. I would also love to see a light on the floorhead for more visibility, and a soft roller to better capture fine dust on hard floors.

How did we test the Dyson V11?

You can find more detail on our testing methodology at how we test vacuums. With the Dyson V11, I tested it for a full day at our test center using standardized substances on carpet, linoleum and hardwood.

I then tested the Dyson V11 for another day at a local cat and dog shelter, where I vacuumed pet hair and general mess from low-pile and medium-pile carpets, thick rugs, and hard floors.

Next, browse our tested guide of the best Dyson alternatives, for quality cleaning at a lower cost.

Still wondering why your floors feel dirty right after you’ve cleaned them? It might not be the tools, but the habits built up over time that are making your floors dirtier every day.

Professional cleaners say many of us are unintentionally making our floors worse through simple, everyday routines. From skipping entry mats to overusing products, these small missteps can add up to bigger messes.

Luckily, they're easy changes to make. Paired with one of the best vacuums for carpet or best vacuums hardwood floors, breaking these bad habits could mean a cleaner home with half the effort.

1. Wearing outdoor shoes indoors

According to Matthew Baratta, VP at Daimer Industries, one of the dirtiest habits is wearing outdoor shoes inside. ‘They bring in oil, bacteria, and grit that wears down floors fast – especially carpets and hardwood,’ he explains.

Veronica Smith from Dallas Maids notes it’s a cultural habit in many US homes, but that doesn’t make it floor-friendly. 'That does not mean it is optimal for our homes,' she emphasizes.

Skipping entrance mats doesn't help, either, and is one of many common home cleaning mistakes. Without a mat to trap moisture and dirt, you’re spreading debris across the house with every step. Veronica says a good mat at each doorway can trap up to 95% of mess – and even basic versions just need a quick shake or vacuum to stay effective.

If your floors are dirty soon after cleaning, it might be time to reassess your routine. Small mistakes such as not drying shoes or poor mat placement can keep floors looking tired. Hardwood is particularly vulnerable, and common habits that damage wood floors often come down to friction and grime from shoes.

2. Leaving spills to sit

That small splash of juice or water may not seem urgent, but letting spills dry can lead to sticky residues that attract even more dirt. ‘Sticky spots become magnets for dust,’ says Matthew, who recommends tackling them as soon as possible with a microfiber cloth or damp mop.

If you're often not able to mop the floors properly when spills occur, consider a steam mop that can clean your floor in seconds without the fuss of setting up a mop and bucket. The Black+Decker Steam Mop at Amazon is a personal favorite at Homes & Gardens across almost all floor types.

And if you’re dealing with frequent messes in high-traffic areas, consider keeping one of the best vacuum-mop combos handy. They're especially useful for households with kids or pets – the Dreame H14 Pro, a model I've tested myself and still use in my home, can banish stains, solids and liquids in seconds and leave the floors dry a moment later.

3. Letting pets track in dirt

Muddy paw prints can quickly undo your hard work and neglecting housekeeping tips for dog owners such as this will only result in more time spent cleaning in the long run.

‘Pets bring in moisture, dirt, and grit that causes wear – especially on hardwood,’ says Carlos Segundo of Traditional Hardwood Flooring. Wiping their paws before they re-enter the house is one of the easiest ways to reduce the mess.

Carlos suggests keeping a towel or pet-safe wipes by the door, and should be essential cleaning supplies for pet owners. More specifically, Veronica recommends Earth Rated wipes [at Amazon] for quick cleans that are safe on paws and won’t leave residues on floors.

Staying on top of pet hair makes a huge difference too – one of the best vacuums for pet hair will be more effective than a standard model at collecting embedded dander and debris.

4. Overusing cleaning products

More product doesn’t always mean cleaner floors. In fact, it often does the opposite. ‘Too much cleaner leaves behind residue, which traps dust and creates a sticky surface,’ says Veronica. Excessive water can seep into porous flooring such as hardwood, causing long-term damage.

It's not just an excess of water or cleaning solution that can cause problems, but the cleaner itself. We've written detailed guides on how to clean bathroom floors without harsh chemicals and common vinyl floor cleaning mistakes if you're unsure what cleaner is right for your home.

Plus, learn the best way to mop hardwood floors and how to clean tile floors with the right cleaners.

Hardwood floors add warmth and elegance to any home, but every day habits can cause lasting damage if you’re not careful. From dragging furniture to using harsh cleaners, it doesn’t take long for wear and tear to show.

Even with the best vacuums for hardwood floors, improper care can scratch, dull, or warp your floorboards. Thankfully, a few quick changes can help you avoid expensive repairs and extend the life of your flooring.

We asked cleaning and flooring experts to share the top three mistakes they often see – and what to do instead.

1. Furniture pads and pet nails

Scratches are one of the most common – and preventable – types of hardwood damage and they can happen when cleaning hardwood floors.

‘Moving furniture without protective pads causes scratches to the flooring,’ says Jessica Gonzalez, COO at Sparkly Maid San Antonio. This doesn't just apply to having a refresh of your room's layout, but also when you're pulling forward furniture to clean overlooked spots.

‘Even outdoor shoes grind grit and dirt into the surface,’ she adds, highlighting the importance of proper care to avoid having to refinish your hardwood floors.

Felt pads are a must for chairs and stools, especially on soft woods like pine or walnut. If your floors are already showing wear, it’s worth learning how to restore hardwood floors without sanding.

Joe Marchionni, owner of Amity Home Maintenance Solutions, also flags pet nails as an issue, ‘If you don’t keep them trimmed, they’ll leave scratches as your dog runs around.’

2. Harsh cleaners

We've written about the best ways to mop hardwood floors and why you should never steam-clean hardwood floors. But it’s not just moisture that warps hardwood – harsh chemicals can do just as much damage.

‘Multi-surface cleaners often strip the finish, exposing the wood underneath,’ Jessica explains. That finish protects against everything from dirt to water, so keeping it intact is essential.

Jessica recommends Bona Hardwood Floor Cleaner at Walmart, and avoiding vinegar solutions, too, ‘Both are unhealthy for wood floors in the long run.’

3. Vacuuming

Vacuuming regularly helps prevent fine dust and debris from acting like sandpaper on hardwood floors – but only if you’re using the right tools.

‘Avoid rotating brushes or beater bars,’ says Paul Hambidge, Managing Director at Factory Direct Flooring, adding, ‘Use a soft brush attachment and hard floor setting.’

We've tested 75 of the best vacuums on hardwood floors, so I can only emphasize how important this is. Don't invest in a vacuum with a bristled brushroll that can't be turned off; otherwise, you'll be scratching your expensive floors every time you clean.

And don’t forget under the rugs. ‘When dirt builds up underneath, walking on the rug grinds it into the wood,’ says Joe. Once you see how much it costs to refinish hardwood floors, you'll be avoiding this at all costs.

If you’re in the market for a better vacuum, the best Dyson vacuums are repeatedly our favorite picks for safe hardwood floor cleaning, but you don't have to break the bank to find the right vacuum:

While you're at it, check how to fix creaky wood floors and compare carpets vs hardwood flooring for some home renovation inspiration.

Levoit is becoming a more common household name, with their range of vacuums, purifiers and fans offering strong performance without unnecessarily high prices.

I've tested a few of their goods in my time as Homes & Gardens' home tech editor, and I like what I've seen so far. So, I was excited to get my hands on the new Levoit LVAC-300, the brand's latest cordless stick at a low-to-mid price point.

I've spent more than 200 hours testing vacuum cleaners, so I put the LVAC-300 through its paces in our test center, a local pet shelter and my own home to find out if it's one of the best cordless vacuums.

Levoit LVAC-300: Specifications

• Buy the Levoit LVAC-300 for $299.99 at Amazon.

Levoit LVAC-300: Setup

The Levoit LVAC-300 arrived in one of the smallest boxes I've seen for a vacuum cleaner. It was compactly packaged, with each component wrapped in soft plastic to avoid scratching; however, sadly, the packaging was not biodegradable.

It took around three hours to charge the battery from 36% to 100%. Otherwise, the only setup required was to attach the wand and floorhead. It's a small vacuum that can stand up by itself, meaning it's easy to store the vacuum without taking up much space.

Included are a dual crevice tool and dusting brush, a mini motorized brush (one of the best vacuum attachments for pet hair), and a wall mount if you want to be able to charge the vacuum off the floor.

Levoit LVAC-300: Design and features

The Levoit LVAC-300 uses a multi-surface floorhead, similar to the best Shark vacuums that use one floorhead to avoid you swapping it out when cleaning different floor types. It's Levoit's third-generation floorhead, using anti-tangle rollers to avoid hair wrap.

It also has different suction modes: eco, auto and turbo. I love seeing this feature in cordless vacuums because it helps to adjust suction power when moving from hard floors to carpets. It's one of the many reasons why the best Dyson vacuums work so well.

I tested the airflow for each suction mode using an anemometer. The LVAC-300 generates 7.1mph, 9.6mph and 12.3mph in each mode, respectively. That's about the same range as the Dyson V8, Dyson's entry-level cordless stick. Also similar to Dyson and Shark, the LVAC-300 has lights on the floorhead to illuminate hidden dust on the floors.

The vacuum HEPA filter actually surpasses official HEPA standards by being able to capture 99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns (HEPA filters only need to be able to capture 99.97%). This is great news for anybody who, like me, suffers from allergies, as a HEPA filter can trap almost all common household allergens.

Its 60-minute runtime is what you'll find across most cordless vacuums. As that's a maximum runtime, you'll get around 40 minutes in auto mode using the floorhead or mini motorized attachment, or 12 minutes using the same setup on turbo mode.

What is the Levoit LVAC-300 like to use?

Overall, the Levoit LVAC-300 is an easy, light and agile cordless stick, with relatively strong suction and a straightforward design. Plus, I tested it in a local pet shelter and the brushroll never wrapped with hair.

I tested it across hard floors, carpets, rugs, and upholstery, and for the price, this is a great vacuum. It isn't as groundbreaking as some of the more expensive and best Miele vacuums, for example, but as a low-to-mid-range cordless vacuum, I was impressed by its cleaning ability.

I tested the noise levels using the DecibelX app and it averages around 60.5 to 68.9 decibels, which is a little quieter than other cordless vacuums (they tend to run at 65 to 75 decibels).

It's easy to use, with the power and suction mode buttons sitting right where the thumb goes. And as the vacuum stands up by itself and can be reclined using your foot, you can comfortably use it with one hand, keeping the other free for moving items such as cables and furniture.

And as it can lie completely flat, it's easy to reach under sofas and other furniture: