The Henry HVR160 vacuum cleaner, often affectionately called “Henry the Hoover,” has been a staple in UK homes since 1981. With its iconic design and reliable performance, it’s a well-loved classic. But, given the evolution of vacuum technology with new cordless models, is this traditional corded cleaner still worth considering in 2025?
Here’s a detailed review based on real-world testing and personal experience.
Price & Availability
- Price: £129.99 at Henry
- Alternative Retailers: £130 at Amazon, £159 at Currys
- Rating: 9 out of 10
What We Like:
- Solid, Robust Build: Henry is built to last and is still going strong decades after its release.
- Great Value for Money: A powerful vacuum cleaner at a reasonable price.
- Iconic Design: The charming and recognizable red body with a cheeky face is a standout, evoking nostalgia for many.
What We Don’t Like:
- Bulky Volume: Henry is a bit large and requires sizeable storage space.
- Can Get Stuck Around Corners: The vacuum is big, and its round design can sometimes lead to bumps or getting stuck.
- Limited Tool Storage: The tool tidy doesn’t hold all attachments at once, meaning you might have to find additional storage solutions.
Design & Build: 9/10
Henry’s design hasn’t changed much since its creation in 1981, and this timeless look is part of its charm. It’s a sturdy, robust machine that feels built to last. Weighing in at 7.5 kg, it’s on the heavier side compared to many modern vacuums. However, its build quality and durability are second to none, with many users reporting that their Henry vacuums are still going strong after 10+ years.
Although it’s not the lightest, the construction feels bulletproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about minor bumps. One of the most convenient aspects is its self-sealing dust bag that locks away dirt and debris mess-free. However, you’ll need to purchase replacement bags, but they’re affordable (around £4.49 for three).
Usability: 9/10
Henry is easy to use, though there is a bit of an adjustment period for those accustomed to modern cordless vacuums. Assembling the floor wand and hose requires a bit of force, but once together, Henry works like a charm. The large green button starts the vacuum effortlessly, and you can adjust the suction power using a ring on the tube (high for carpets, low for hard floors). The adjustments were a little stiff at first but became easier over time.
The vacuum comes with a range of useful tools, including a dusting tool, crevice tool, and upholstery tool. Each is designed for specific tasks, and you can purchase replacements if needed.
Mobility: 8/10
With a 10m cable, Henry boasts an impressive cleaning range of 25.7m. It’s easy to move from room to room without the need to constantly plug and unplug. However, the long cord can sometimes get in the way of the smooth-rolling castors, and the vacuum may bump into corners. While it’s built tough enough to handle this, it’s worth noting that your walls or furniture may take a little damage if you aren’t careful.
The wide handle makes carrying Henry upstairs much easier, though the cylindrical shape can make it a bit tricky to balance on stairs. For tight areas, the crevice tool adds extra suction power, making quick work of those awkward corners.
Performance & Results: 9/10
Henry delivers excellent performance on a variety of surfaces. It easily tackled mud, leaves, dust, and other debris on hardwood floors, adjusting its suction power accordingly. The combi floor tool is particularly effective for both hard floors and carpets, with a switch to lower the brush for delicate surfaces.
On my thick rug, Henry showed its true power, sucking up stubborn long hairs and fluff. The soft-headed dusting tool made cleaning delicate surfaces like shelves effortless, and the upholstery tool worked perfectly on my velvet sofa, cleaning without damaging the fabric.
Storage: 7/10
The large size of Henry means it requires ample storage space. The tool tidy on the back of the vacuum can hold some of the attachments, but not all, leaving one tool without a proper storage space. While you can wrap the flexible hose around the body, the long metal floor wand makes it cumbersome to store in smaller spaces.
While Henry’s body is 30 cm wide, with attachments it expands to about 50 cm in width, so it does take up significant space in a cupboard. If you’re limited on storage, you might need to clear out extra space to fit it.
Final Thoughts
The Henry HVR160 is a reliable, durable, and powerful vacuum that has stood the test of time. While it may not be as sleek or feature-packed as some of the newer cordless models, it excels in terms of raw power, suction, and build quality. It’s especially good for those with large homes, a lot of floor space, or anyone who needs a vacuum that will last for years.
If you don’t mind the size and are willing to put up with the need for a bag and a cord, the Henry HVR160 is a fantastic, solid choice. It’s affordable, effective, and one of the best value vacuums available.
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