Theguardian iconTheguardianAug 18, 2026 ~1 min source read

The best vacuum cleaners in the UK for hard floors, carpet and pet hair – tested

Sticking with established brands isn't necessarily a safe bet, with past performance being no guarantee that the latest models will be as good. Meanwhile, prices can be deceptive, with some affordable models now closing the gap on top-of-the-range brands when it comes to cleaning performance.

The best vacuum cleaners in the UK for hard floors, carpet and pet hair – tested

Share this story

Send the public story page.

Useful takeaways from this story.

Sticking with established brands isn't necessarily a safe bet, with past performance being no guarantee that the latest models will be as good.

Meanwhile, prices can be deceptive, with some affordable models now closing the gap on top-of-the-range brands when it comes to cleaning performance.

Thankfully, you won't have to try because I've tested an array of models for you.

Building the complete brief

The page is ready to read now. The fuller skim-friendly version will appear here automatically.

The useful part

Sticking with established brands isn't necessarily a safe bet, with past performance being no guarantee that the latest models will be as good. Meanwhile, prices can be deceptive, with some affordable models now closing the gap on top-of-the-range brands when it comes to cleaning performance. Thankfully, you won't have to try because I've tested an array of models for you.

How it works

  • From handheld to corded, self-emptying to stick models, these are our resident cleaner's favourite vacuums for a spotless home • The best cordless vacuum cleaners, tested • How to make your vacuum cleaner...
  • I've measured each one's ability to perform a range of real-world cleaning jobs, so you can discover the best vacuum cleaner for you.

Details worth keeping

You can't know all this by browsing through a department store or online.

Keep reading in the app

Open the app view to save this story, compare related coverage, and continue from the same source.

Open in app