Finding a good cheap vacuum can be a daunting task, especially with so many options on the market. A vacuum cleaner is an essential household tool that helps maintain cleanliness and hygiene. However, not everyone has the budget to invest in high-end models. The good news is that there are affordable vacuums that perform excellently without breaking the bank. This guide will help you understand what to look for in a budget-friendly vacuum and recommend some of the best options available.
Understanding Your Needs
Before you start looking for a vacuum, it’s important to understand your specific needs. This will help narrow down your options and ensure you choose a vacuum that suits your lifestyle and cleaning requirements.
Types of Flooring
Different vacuums perform better on certain types of flooring. If you have mostly carpeted floors, you’ll need a vacuum with strong suction and a brush roll to lift dirt and debris. For hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, a vacuum that can be adjusted to prevent scratching is essential.
Household Size and Layout
The size and layout of your home also play a crucial role. If you live in a small apartment, a compact and lightweight vacuum would be ideal. For larger homes, a vacuum with a longer cord or better battery life is necessary to avoid frequent recharging or unplugging.
Pets and Allergies
If you have pets, you’ll need a vacuum with good filtration and strong suction to pick up pet hair and dander. For allergy sufferers, a vacuum with a HEPA filter is recommended to trap allergens and prevent them from being released back into the air.
Key Features to Consider
When shopping for a good cheap vacuum, there are several key features to consider. These features will determine the vacuum’s performance, ease of use, and overall value.
Suction Power
Suction power is arguably the most important feature of any vacuum. It determines how well the vacuum can pick up dirt, dust, and debris. While more expensive models often have stronger suction, many budget-friendly vacuums offer adequate suction for everyday cleaning tasks.
Filtration System
A good filtration system is essential, especially for those with allergies. HEPA filters are the gold standard, as they can trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. However, many affordable vacuums come with effective filtration systems that can capture most common allergens.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Bagged vacuums tend to have better filtration and are less messy to empty, but you’ll need to buy replacement bags. Bagless vacuums save money on bags and are more convenient to empty, but they can release dust back into the air if not done carefully.
Corded vs. Cordless
Corded vacuums provide consistent power and are generally less expensive than cordless models. However, cordless vacuums offer more flexibility and convenience, especially for quick cleanups. Consider your cleaning habits and whether the freedom of a cordless vacuum is worth the trade-off in battery life and potential cost.
Weight and Maneuverability
A lightweight vacuum is easier to carry around and maneuver, especially if you have stairs. Look for models with swivel steering and ergonomic handles to make cleaning less strenuous.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments can greatly enhance the versatility of your vacuum. Common attachments include crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery tools. Some vacuums also come with motorized pet tools or additional filters, which can be very useful.
See Also: What Are the Most Cost-Effective Vacuum Cleaners?
Top Recommendations for Good Cheap Vacuums
Here are some top recommendations for affordable vacuums that offer great performance and value for money.
1. Bissell CleanView Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
The Bissell CleanView is a popular choice for budget-conscious shoppers. It offers powerful suction and a multi-cyclonic system that ensures long-lasting performance. The OnePass technology helps clean on the first pass, and the scatter-free technology reduces scatter on hard floors. It also comes with a variety of attachments for versatile cleaning.
2. Eureka NEU182A PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
The Eureka PowerSpeed is a lightweight and powerful vacuum ideal for both carpets and hard floors. It features a 5-height adjustment and a wide nozzle for quick cleaning. The extra-large dust cup holds more dirt, reducing the frequency of emptying. It also includes multiple accessories for above-floor cleaning.
3. Hoover WindTunnel 2 Whole House Rewind Corded Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
The Hoover WindTunnel 2 is designed for whole-house cleaning. It has strong suction and a multi-floor brush roll that can be adjusted for different floor types. The HEPA filtration system captures 99.97% of dust and allergens. The automatic cord rewind feature makes storage easy and convenient.
4. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 Upright Vacuum
The Shark Navigator NV360 offers versatility with its lift-away feature, allowing you to detach the canister for portable cleaning. It provides excellent suction and comes with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens. The swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces.
5. Dirt Devil Endura Max Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
The Dirt Devil Endura Max is a budget-friendly option with a powerful motor and advanced filtration system. It’s designed to tackle both carpets and hard floors effectively. The quick-release wand and additional tools make it easy to clean above-floor areas.
Maintaining Your Vacuum
Proper maintenance is crucial to ensure your vacuum performs optimally and lasts longer. Here are some tips to keep your vacuum in good condition.
Regularly Empty the Dust Cup or Replace the Bag
For bagless vacuums, empty the dust cup regularly to maintain suction power and prevent the motor from overheating. For bagged vacuums, replace the bag when it’s about two-thirds full to avoid loss of suction.
Clean or Replace Filters
Clean washable filters every few months and replace non-washable filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clogged filters can reduce suction and affect the vacuum’s performance.
Check for Blockages
Regularly inspect the hose, brush roll, and attachments for blockages. Remove any debris that may be obstructing airflow to ensure consistent suction.
Maintain the Brush Roll
Clean the brush roll regularly to remove hair and fibers that can get tangled around it. Some vacuums have a self-cleaning brush roll, which simplifies this task.
Inspect the Belt
If your vacuum uses a belt to drive the brush roll, check it periodically for wear and tear. Replace the belt if it’s loose or damaged to maintain effective brush roll rotation.
Conclusion
A good cheap vacuum doesn’t have to compromise on quality or performance. By understanding your needs and considering key features such as suction power, filtration, and maneuverability, you can find an affordable vacuum that meets your cleaning requirements. The recommended models in this guide offer excellent value for money and come with features that make cleaning easier and more efficient. With proper maintenance, a budget-friendly vacuum can serve you well for years to come.