The world of vacuum cleaners is like a deep ocean full of hundreds if not thousands of fish species. You’ll find sticks vs. cylinders, uprights vs. handhelds, corded vs. cordless, and now the fast-rising robotic models. If you add all these models up, you’ll be amazed to realize that the vacuum business is seemingly endless and totally overwhelming, especially if you’re a newcomer. But, despite being a complex and tricky market, picking the right vacuum means that you have the find the right balance between quality and affordability. And since this is a very difficult task to accomplish, this guide has come to your rescue to discuss the best vacuum under 300 that will prove to be a valuable prospect.
The reason why it’s impossible to single out one vacuum amidst plenty of options is the marketing strategy most brands use where each one of them states the best features their products have. If you add these strategies with the myth that superior technology comes with premium vacuums, then it makes it even harder to pick a low priced vacuum over its high-priced counterparts.
See Also:
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- 13 Best Lawn Sweepers for the Money – Reviews & Buying Guide
Contents
Vacuum Under $300: Editor’s Top Picks
Top 15 Best Vacuum Under $300 Reviews:
Now, the best vacuum cleaner shouldn’t just be reliable but it should offer excellent value in terms of cleaning performance, longevity, and smart features that will have a real impact on your life. For that reason, we’ve discussed 15 vacuum cleaner models that we believe will make a difference in your home improvement journey.
The Shark NV356E has managed to make its way at the top of our discussion. As an upright canister vacuum, this unit offers a lot of conveniences thanks to its intelligent design and top-rated suction and filtration system. First and foremost, the NV356E weighs just 13.7 pounds. With such a light body, maneuverability is definitely less of an issue as you can conveniently lift it to clean your stairs and overhead areas within your home.
Secondly, this vacuum has an interesting design that allows it to convert from an upright to a canister vacuum with just the press of a button. The first step is to disconnect the looped handle from the wand while the second step is to disconnect the transparent canister from the motor assembly to make it a canister vacuum. To clean hard-to-reach areas, you can further disconnect the handle with the wand.
Like it isn’t enough, the NV356E is equipped with a 2.2 quartz transparent dust cup that clearly shows you when it’s time to empty and clean it. It also comes with a swivel head that makes cleaning quite easy and a 5 ft. hose that lets you reach those profile areas with ease. For those suffering from asthma and other respiratory illnesses, the NV356E is equipped with a HEPA filter and an allergen seal technology that prevents any pollen, dirt, or debris from escaping from the dust cup when vacuuming.
Pros
- Perfect for both carpet and hard floor deep cleaning.
- Equipped with a true HEPA filter.
- Coverts from an upright to a canister.
- Swivel head with rubberized wheels.
- Lightweight and easy to push and carry around.
Cons
- The spinning brush is susceptible to clogging.
- The vacuum brush is quite narrow.
2. Miele Grey Classic C1 Pure Suction Canister Vacuum Cleaner
To those of you that value German machines, the Miele Grey Classic C1 is one of the models that might astonish you. With over 100 years of experience in the vacuum business, Miele knows exactly where the shoe pinches most. With such experience, they’ve managed to engineer a vacuum that has left a mark in the canister department. Powered by a 1,200W high suction power motor, this suction-only vacuum is a real master when it comes to cleaning thin carpets and hard floors.
To make cleaning an effective endeavor, the C1 offers you 6 suction settings that you can rely on depending on the surface you’re cleaning. For those that enjoy conducting weekly general cleaning tasks during the weekends, this vacuum is generous enough to offer you a wide range of attachments that will surely make cleaning an effortless task.
Although the C1 weighs just 16.1 pounds, this vacuum doesn’t come alone. There’s a 4.7 quartz litter bag at the disposal, a 29.5 ft. power cord, and a 5.5 ft. hose that lets you clean a wide radius without having to carry the litter bag. There’s also a 360° swivel head at the disposal and rubberized wheels that lets you clean profile areas including round furniture without feeling overwhelmed. Equipped with a 3-level filtration system, the Miele Grey Classic C1 is another classic vacuum that has managed to combined maneuverability with accessibility.
Pros
- The motor is very quiet even on high settings.
- Has a very high suction power.
- An intelligent 3-level filtration system.
- Compact and lightweight.
- Has an inspiring Grey color.
Cons
- No rotating brush for cleaning carpets.
- Lacks some crucial attachments.
3. BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Whether you’re a pet parent or just someone that owns a facility that houses homeless pets, the BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is a worthy contender that will never disappoint you. Following the fact that Bissell is a proud supporter of the Bissell Pet Foundation, the Turbo Plus 24613 is specifically built to take care of your pets’ messes such as stains, debris, spills, and pet hair. Since it can’t accomplish all this by itself, Bissell has employed a sophisticated technology that has made everything possible.
One of them is the high-quality attachments such as the tangle-free brush roll that lets you pick all pet hair particles without clogging the brush. There’s also a superior LED crevice tool, a 2-in-1 pet dusting brush, and a Pet Turbo Eraser tool that works together to remove any pet stains from your hard floor, carpet, and couches. Besides these specialized tools, Bissell has further added an extension wand that takes care of profile areas and far corners.
Like it’s not enough, Bissell has added three more technologies that include the SmartSeal filter technology, the Fabreeze, and the Cyclonic Pet Hair Spooling System. With the SmartSeal technology, the litter bag is completely sealed to prevent dust, pollen, and other allergens from leaking into the atmosphere. The Fabreeze is a unique filter system that removed pet odors from the indoors while the Cyclonic Pet Hair Spooling System allows you to empty the litterbag without touching the mess inside it. Equipped with a long 27 ft. power cord, the Turbo Plus 24613 has managed to rank among the best vacuum cleaner under $300, and for a good reason.
Pros
- Has a swivel head that offers excellent maneuverability.
- Comes with sophisticated technologies.
- It has a long power cord.
- Equipped with specialized pet tools.
- Light enough to push around.
Cons
- The extension wand is quite short.
- Quite heavy.
4. Hoover MAXLife Pro Pet Swivel HEPA Media Vacuum Cleaner
Just like our previous BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus, the Hoover MAXLife Pro Pet Vacuum Cleaner has opted to lean more on the pets department by offering a smart technology that works hand-in-hand with the multiple available pet tools to give pet parents and pet lovers in general something exclusive to enjoy. Now, we’re all aware of how stubborn pet hair can get once it makes its way on your furniture, couch, and carpet right?
While most vacuums will struggle to get rid of such debris, the MAXLife Pro UH74220PC is specifically designed to handle such messes by using its exclusive on/off brush roll to combat such issues. Not only that, this vacuum has a special pet turbo tool that gets rid of pet hair lingering on your carpet, hard floor, and couches. It also has a crevice tool for cleaning hard-to-reach areas and an advanced action brush roll that has LED headlights to make it easier for you to spot those tough stains hidden in profile areas.
Other than its advanced cleaning technology, the MAXLife Pro UH74220PC is equipped with an advanced MAXLife system that delivers superior suction power. It also has an extra-large litterbag that has a smart seal technology and a HEPA filter system that allows it to capture nearly 99.9% of dust and allergens from your floor without allowing them to recirculate back to the environment.
Pros
- Has a large dust cup that prevents regular trips to the trash.
- Uses a HEPA filter to capture all dust and allergens.
- Comes with special attachments for both hard floors and carpets.
- Perfect for removing pet hair.
- Has a high suction power.
Cons
- It’s quite heavy.
5. Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS Commercial Upright Vacuum Cleaner XL
Although the Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS isn’t accompanied by so many attachments, its exceptional performance coupled with a surprisingly lightweight structure has made it an excellent pick among most homeowners. As a commercial vacuum, the XL2100RHS has two-speed settings that include a high-speed for cleaning high-pile carpets and a slow setting for cleaning oriental bare floors and Persian rugs. This vacuum is also designed with a low profile that allows the pile-lifting roller brush to pick all the dust and allergens from every corner of the room.
To those homeowners suffering from asthma and other respiratory illnesses, the XL2100RHS has a special dirtbag that locks all dust and dirt particles in the inside to prevent them from escaping to the atmosphere. The dirtbag has a capacity of 630 cubic inch which again is a major plus as you won’t have to keep emptying the bag.
This vacuum is further equipped with a long 35 ft. power cord that lets you vacuum a wide area without having to unplug it from the main power source. The brush attachment has a wide 12-inch cleaning path which again is a major plus as it makes cleaning quick and easy. Welcomed with a 1-year parts warranty, the Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS is one of the lightest and one of the most dependable commercial vacuums you can rely on.
Pros
- Weighing just 9 pounds, this vacuum is among the lightest.
- Has a very long power cord.
- Powerful suction power.
- Excels in all types of floors.
- Has a low-profile design.
Cons
- Doesn’t have any attachments.
- Has low suction power.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV360 is pretty much like the Shark NV356E only that it has a wider cleaning path and a bigger dust cup. In fact, most people view it as an upgrade to the Shark NV356E only that it’s much heavier. But, despite being a little bit heavy, the NV360 has managed to provide a lot of value thanks to several features.
One of those is its wide 11-inch cleaning path that allows you to wipe a wide area at a go. Another major plus is its lift-away advantage that allows you to lift the canister away from the main unit with just a press of a button. This allows you to attach a range of attachments that lets you clean your stairs, walls, curtains, and high above the ceiling without feeling overwhelmed. Besides that, there’s a brush roll at the base of the vacuum that can be turned on/off independently to allow you clean low to medium pile carpets as well as hard floors.
To those suffering from respiratory-related illnesses, the NV360 features a large litter bag that’s equipped with a smart complete seal technology and a HEPA filter system to trap nearly 99.9% of allergens without allowing them to escape back to the atmosphere. Equipped with a 25 ft. long power cord, the NV360 is one of the best value vacuum cleaner you can’t miss adding to your arsenal.
Pros
- Has included a HEPA filtration system inside.
- The swivel steering offers excellent control and maneuverability.
- Has a wide cleaning path.
- The large litter bag prevents frequent emptying.
- Complete seal technology prevents allergens from escaping.
Cons
- Quite bulky to push on carpets.
- Not the best for removing pet hair.
7. Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Upright Vacuum Cleaner
One of the main reasons why the Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max has managed to muscle its way into our list today is due to its all-in-one advantage. What I mean is that this vacuum is designed to accomplish almost any cleaning task including removing pet hair and all the annoying odors that come with pets. It has a wide brush roll that cleans both low and medium-piled carpets with less effort. It also has a low profile and a brush roll-on/off feature that allows you to clean hard floors without being interrupted.
In case you’re on a mission to clean the shelves, the walls, and the ceiling, the Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max provides you with a couple of attachments that you can rely on. They include the crevice tool, the pet turbo tool, and the pivoting dusting tool.
To add icing to the cake, this vacuum is equipped with a special Windtunnel 3 technology that uses three channels of suction to create enormous sucking ability through its wide nozzle. This allows it to suck all dirt, pollen, pet hair, and other debris from your floor, couches, shelves, and ceiling into the large capacity dirtbag.
Pros
- Has a long 15 ft. wand and 30 ft. power cord.
- Has a 15-inch wide cleaning path.
- Offers multiple attachments to use.
- Perfect for removing pet hair.
- HEPA filters trap nearly 99.9% of dust and allergens.
Cons
- Unfortunately, the suction power is quite low.
8. BISSELL Cleanview Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
Most Bissell vacuums have been worthy contenders when it comes to cleaning pet messes such as pet hair, spills, and odors. The BISSELL Cleanview Swivel Rewind Upright Vacuum is one of the perfect examples of Bissell’s dominance in this business. Thanks to their huge contribution to the pets’ foundation, pet lovers and pet parents alike will have something to smile about the moment they get this vacuum model.
One of the features you’re likely to enjoy here is the available attachments one of which is the pet turbo eraser tool. With this attachment, you can easily clean up pet hair that has accumulated on the floor and other profile areas. Still on board, there’s a special pet hair corner tool and a wide edge-to-edge triple action brush roll that handles all debris that has been scattered or embedded on the floor or profile areas such as the corner of the stairs.
Due to its huge size and massive weight of over 19 pounds, pushing this vacuum around might seem overwhelming. Thankfully, Bissell has opted to add a swivel head with two rubber wheels and 5 height adjusting settings to make it easier for you to push this beast around. They’ve also increased the size of the litter bag to minimize the number of trips you’ll need to take while emptying the bag.
Pros
- Has an automatic cord rewind feature.
- Has 5 height adjusting settings.
- The litter bag can be emptied easily with just a push of a button.
- Comes with multiple pet hair tools.
- The long power cord offers a wide 13.5-inch cleaning radius.
- Triple action brush roll cleans all types of floors.
Cons
- Quite difficult to assemble.
9. Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter
We all know that Bissell has been so vocal when it comes to engineering vacuum cleaner units for handling pet hair. Although they’ve really excelled in this department, Shark has also done a remarkable job that cannot be ignored. The Shark NV752 is one of the models that have really revealed Shark’s dominance in handling pet hair and other related pet messes. As part of the huge family of the Shark NV vacuum series, the Shark NV752 has amazed most homeowners thanks to its multiple attachments and sophisticated cleaning technologies.
One of the reasons that will force you to pick this beast is its wide range of attachments that include an 8” crevice tool, a 2-in-1 stiff bristle brush, and a wide brush roll that lets you handle all pet messes with ease. Now, the Shark NV752 has a net weight of 15.4 pounds. Although it sounds overwhelming, this vacuum can easily be detached to convert it into a canister unit that weighs just 8 pounds.
For those suffering from respiratory issues, the litter bag is equipped with an intelligent complete seal technology that restricts allergens from sneaking back to the air when vacuuming. To make your cleaning project 100% effective, the Shark NV752 is fitted with LED headlights on the swivel head to help spot any hidden debris.
Pros
- Comes with extra tools and attachments.
- The litter bag is totally sealed to prevent dust from leaking.
- Best for cleaning both carpeted and hard floorings.
- Has a HEPA filter system.
- Backed with a 5-year limited warranty.
Cons
- It’s quite bulky to push around.
10. Oreck – U2000RB-1 Commercial, Professional Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Perhaps one of the most surprising things about the Oreck-U2000RB-1 is its ultra-lightweight that ranges at around 9 pounds. This is a massive advantage to senior users and those suffering from arthritis as you won’t have to struggle to push or carry this commercial upright vacuum around. In fact, Oreck has gone ahead to add an on/off button right on the handgrip to provide the much-needed convenience when using this vacuum.
Similar to its close cousin, the Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS, the Oreck-U2000RB-1 is equipped with exceptional features one of which is a large 630 cubic inch litter bag that swallows all the dirt and debris accumulated from your floor without calling for regular emptying. It also has a wide 12” cleaning path that makes the cleaning task much quicker than ever before.
Since it’s a commercial vacuum, you’ll definitely expect the Oreck to have enormous suction power right? Well, this is actually demonstrated by the double-helix brushes that spin at a high speed of 6,500rms to remove any dirt, dust, and debris from your carpet, bare floor, and beneath the furniture. Since it’s a corded model, Oreck has further equipped this vacuum with a long 40 ft. power cord to give it a wider cleaning radius.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight.
- Has a wide 12” cleaning path.
- Has a circuit breakage that prevents clogging.
- The litter bag is huge enough to prevent regular emptying.
- The brushes spin at a high 6,500 rpm.
Cons
- The litter bag doesn’t stay intact.
- It’s hard to find a replacement bag.
11. Eureka Flash Lightweight Stick Vacuum Cleaner
The best thing about the Eureka Flash Lightweight Corded Vacuum is that it provides homeowners with much-needed convenience when it comes to cleaning their homes. The slim handheld design of this vac makes it almost impossible to distinguish it from most of its cordless counterparts. At just 6.3 pounds, almost anyone including kids and seniors can easily grab the handle and clean the floor while taking advantage of the fingertip controls to reprogram the vacuum once it gets on a carpet or a bare floor.
To clean the stairways, the shelves, crevices, and up the ceiling, the Eureka Flash is designed to convert into a short handheld unit by just switching the attachments. The head itself is designed with a special swivel technology that allows you to maneuver the vacuum around furniture and other obstacles when performing a deep cleaning. It even has LED lights on the head unit that lets you find dirt and dust particles that are hidden beneath the furniture.
To make things even much easier for you, Eureka has designed this vacuum with a long 30 ft. power cord that gives you a wider cleaning radius. They’ve also equipped it with a wide brush roll that has a cleaning path of 11”. Designed with a brilliant storage base for all the attachments, the Eureka Flash is among the best vacuum under 300 you can’t afford to miss out.
Pros
- Cleans both carpets and hard floors.
- Weighs just 6.3 pounds.
- Can easily convert into a handheld unit.
- LED lights make it easier to see dirt under furniture.
- The 30 ft. power cord is long enough to cover a wide area.
Cons
- The brush roll clogs easily.
- Too many plastic parts that break easily.
The Shark ZU561 is a perfect example of a quality vacuum that’s specifically designed to handle pet hair and other pet litter within the house. Just like most Bissell and Shark vacuum cleaners we’ve already discussed, this too comes with similar features such as the brilliant lift-away technology that allows you to transform the vacuum from an upright to a canister model.
If you’re cleaning the floor, the upright version is the best as it allows you to push the vacuum over the floor or carpet to suck any dirt and debris. When it’s time to clean the furniture, stairways, couches and your car’s interior, the canister version coupled with some extra tools can handle that department with a lot of ease and convenience.
The Shark ZU561 is equipped with a brilliant self-cleaning brush roll that picks up all pet hair without clogging. There’s also a powerful HEPA filter that traps nearly 99.9% of dust and allergens as well as a large litter bag that uses the anti-Allergen complete seal technology to trap allergens without allowing them to escape. Equipped with a swivel steering for easy maneuverability, the Shark ZU561 is a brilliant pick if you’re looking for a vacuum that can remove pet hair and other pet messes without clogging.
Pros
- Can be used both as an upright and as a canister vacuum.
- Can clean both carpet and bare floors.
- Perfect for picking pet hair.
- Has a self-cleaning brush roll that doesn’t clog.
- Complete seal technology traps allergens without allowing them to escape.
Cons
- The power cord is a bit short.
- Has too many plastic parts.
13. VICTONYUS 1650Pa Strong Suction, Super Thin Robotic Vacuum
If you’re looking for the best robot vacuum under 300 that will handle all the vacuuming chores while you’re away, then the VICTONYUS 1650Pa is perhaps the best pick. Unlike the earlier versions of robotic vacuums that only performed limited cleaning tasks, the VICTONYUS 1650Pa is in the category of the latest vacuum cleaners that rely on smart and sophisticated technologies to clean your entire house.
One of those technologies is the gyroscope feature that provides smart navigation and advanced mapping capabilities. This allows this robotic vacuum to move around the house cleaning every bit of dirt including profile areas such as under furniture and around obstacles. There are also special sensors and a smart Artificial Intelligence that prevents this vacuum from falling off the stairs or bumping on obstacles such as a glass of fresh juice or a bowl of popcorns.
As a cordless vacuum, the VICTONYUS 1650Pa relies on a very powerful 2600mAh Li-Ion battery that offers a continuous runtime of 80-100 minutes. When the charge is nearly 20%, this vacuum uses its AI capabilities to dock back to its charging station to get a recharge. For those with stable WIFI connections, the VICTONYUS 1650Pa can receive daily cleaning schedules with the help of smart voice control or the WeBack app.
Pros
- High suction power for cleaning bare floors and carpets.
- Offers 100 minutes of cleaning time before recharging.
- Allows voice commands via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Its compact body allows it to clean profile areas.
- Comes with 4 cleaning modes.
Cons
- Not the best for heavy fringe or deep pile mats and carpets.
- The battery drains pretty fast.
14. Sanitaire, SL3681A Professional Compact Canister Vacuum Cleaner
Although the Sanitaire SL3681A Canister Vacuum has appeared so late in our discussion, its compact design coupled with a commercial rating and a budget-friendly price tag has managed to set the bar high for canister vacuums. Despite being less vocal in the vacuum business, this brand has offered its customers a vacuum that offers easy maneuverability and excellent accessibility. This means that with the Sanitaire SL3681A, you can easily clean your floor or the walls by just pulling the vac behind you or carrying it with one hand.
When it comes to deep cleaning your home, you can take advantage of the available motorized attachments that include a two-piece plastic wand, combo bare floor, and carpet tool, a dusting brush, and a crevice tool. So, whether it’s cleaning those profile corners, cobwebby ceilings, beneath the furniture, or around obstacles, these attachments will never fail you whatsoever. As a professional compact canister vacuum, the Sanitaire SL3681A is a reliable option that suits both residential and office use.
Pros
- At just 10 pounds, this vacuum is extremely light.
- Available at an affordable price.
- Can clean multiple surfaces.
- Comes with a wide range of motorized attachments.
- Perfect for both commercial and residential cleaning tasks.
Cons
- Doesn’t come with the HEPA filter.
- The litter bag is too small.
15. Atrix Canister Revo Red Vacuum
Last but not least, we have the Atrix Canister Revo Red Vacuum. Although it certainly came last in our discussion, this vacuum has a lot to be admired one of which is its profile body that makes mobility a breeze. While most vacuum models rely on messy bags to trap allergens, this one comes with an excellent bagless design that makes it both easy and safe to empty the litter. Although it weighs a little over 10 pounds, Atrix has managed to add caster wheels at the bottom to make maneuverability an easy affair.
Now, when it comes to cleaning your floor, this vacuum will never disappoint you. First, Atrix has used a long 20 ft. power cord that gives you a wide working radius without having to unplug the vacuum often. They’ve also equipped this beast with some key attachments that include a dust brush, a crevice nozzle, upholstery nozzle, turbo brush, floor tools, and a long 6” flexible hose to help you perform deep cleaning with less effort.
Other than that, Atrix has further added a 6-quartz litter bag that has a HEPA filter system to help capture the tiniest allergens on your floor. There’s a speed variable motor at your disposal that allows you to adjust the speed to suit both bare floors and carpeted areas. Perfect for both home and office use, the Atrix Canister Revo Red Vacuum is one of the best vacuums that can really make a huge difference to all your vacuuming needs.
Pros
- Available with a wide range of attachments.
- Includes a HEPA filter system.
- Has a long 20 ft. power cord.
- The hose is quite long and flexible.
- Lightweight and very portable.
Cons
- Has a strong plastic odor when new.
Factors to Consider When Picking a Vacuum
Now that we’ve discussed 15 top-rated vacuums that you can rely on, our next focus is to highlight some useful parameters you need to consider before pulling the trigger. You see, the world of vacuums is vast and quite overwhelming if you’re unaware of what you’re looking for. There are corded vs. cordless, bagged vs. bagless, canister vs. upright, and now the fast-rising robotic vacuums. Although your main focus is to clean your floor, there are a whole lot of factors you’ll have to consider before parting with your hard-earned money. So, with that said, this buyer’s guide section will discuss some of these factors that need to be on your radar.
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Types of Vacuum:
The first factor you need to consider when picking a vacuum cleaner is the exact type of vac you’ll need. If you’re a senior homeowner, a bagless version can be a perfect option as it’s both lightweight and very convenient to move around. If you’re cleaning a wide area, a cordless vacuum is another smart choice that will not limit your cleaning radius.
To those suffering from respiratory issues, a bagless vacuum can be a perfect bargain as it eliminates messy emptying when disposing of the litter. Lastly, if you’re a homeowner who’s always on the go, then the best robotic vacuum under $300 can make a perfect companion. With the help of the smart home assistants, Smartphone apps, and voice command assistants, one can easily conduct scheduled cleaning tasks then leave the vac to do the rest.
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Weight:
Have you ever pushed a heavy vacuum on a high-pile carpet or lugged it up and down a series of steep stairs? Well, in case you’ve experienced this before, then you’re aware of how important weight is when picking a vacuum. Thankfully, from our review section just above, it’s fair to say that most of the vacuums we’ve discussed are lift-away models meaning they can easily be transformed from upright to canister versions.
So, with such an advantage, transforming a heavy 15 pounds upright vacuum into a lightweight 8-pound canister can be as simple as pressing a single button. This way, homeowners can easily and conveniently clean wide floors and stairways and still have the option of carrying the vacuums upstairs to clean the rest of the rooms.
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Filter System:
This is one of the factors that make a huge difference between a high-standard and a low-quality vacuum. The filtration system is the one responsible for the suction power of your vacuum. The suction power on the head of your vacuum is created by negative air pressure which must be balanced with positive air pressure on the exhaust to make the suction effective.
The balance between the positive and negative air pressure is the one that prevents dust and allergens from spewing back into the atmosphere when vacuuming. This technology is commonly referred to as smart seal technology. With such technology, you won’t have to worry about excess emissions being left in the atmosphere when vacuuming.
Other than that, you need to inspect the filters that are available in your vacuum. Although there are many types of filters available, the true HEPA filter is mostly regarded as the best as it proves to trap nearly 99.9% of dust, allergens, pollen, and microparticles that are 0.3 microns.
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Available Attachments:
Another factor that demands a lot of attention when picking the best vacuum under 300 is the number of available accessories. If your home has different floor types, picking a vacuum model that has numerous attachments such as crevice tools, nozzle tools, and brushes can be very beneficial. This way, you can easily manage to clean crucial areas without causing any scratches or damages.
Also, if your home has both carpeted and hard flooring, a vacuum that has an on/off brush roll can really be a brilliant purchase. With such a vacuum, the brush roll can easily be turned on/off to allow you to clean both the carpet and the bare floor with ease. Some models even come with height adjustment settings that let you clean all floorings with ease.
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Cord Length:
The length of your vac’s power cord is another factor you must consider when picking your favorite model. Now, most corded vacuums come with a power cable of around 25 ft. Although this is long enough to cover a wide radius, it’s not enough to cover at least two rooms. So, if you want to avoid that frequent plugging and re-plugging, you need to get a much longer cable or else get a cordless vacuum. In the case of a cordless vacuum, always get one that offers at least 40-60 minutes of average runtime to cover your entire home.
Types of Vacuum Cleaner
Picking a vacuum cleaner is not the same as rushing to your local grocery store to grab some fruits and veggies. The world of vacuum cleaners is wide and immense and is full of hundreds of thousands of vacuums that are categorized according to size, shape, color, and functionality. Keeping your home clean means that you have to work extra hard to find a vacuum that meets all your cleaning demands. Since it can be quite overwhelming to single out one vacuum from the rest, this section will discuss at least 5 major types of vacuums that are available.
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Upright Vacuums
Upright vacuums are perhaps the most common types of vacuums you’ll expect to find in almost any home. In fact, if you imagine a vacuum or see one in an advertisement, the vivid picture that comes to your mind is that of an upright vacuum. The design and nature of these vacuums make them the best for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors to remove every bit of dirt and dust particles.
Although they’re considered the best, upright vacuums tend to weigh more than other vacuum versions. That’s because the upright section is tasked to hold the motor and the collection system. Since they can’t perfectly clean tight spaces due to their bulky designs, most models come with extra attachments that allow you to clean beneath the furniture and around obstacles.
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Handheld Vacuums
If you have a small vacuum cleaner at your disposal, then there’s a high chance it’s a handheld version. Unlike upright vacuums, handheld vacuums are small and very compact making them the best for handling light cleaning tasks. These models are usually the best for cleaning cereal, dirt, and pet hair that has been embedded on your couch cushions or your car’s seats. Due to their small sizes, these vacuums usually have lower suction power that makes them the worst for cleaning floors.
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Canister Vacuums
A canister vacuum is a type of vacuum that has successfully managed to marry the features of an upright vac and those of a stick vacuum. What you’re left with is a vacuum that has a canister and a long wand that’s attached to the canister by a flexible hose. While the wand is responsible for cleaning your floor, the stairways, the ceiling, and other areas (with the help of special attachments), the canister is responsible for housing the motor and the litter bag. Depending on the model you’ve picked, the canister can either have wheels for easy mobility or a handle for easy picking when cleaning.
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Cordless Vacuums
Now, if you have a large living room that needs to be cleaned often, perhaps you can ditch the cord and instead pick a cordless vacuum that will follow those trails of crumbs to the furthest corners. Designed with slim upright sticks, these types of vacuums are perhaps a slender version of the upright vacuum only that they’re slim enough to get to those profile areas where contemporary upright vacs can’t manage.
They’re powered by Li-Ion batteries that offer at least an hour of run time before being recharged. Although these vacuums have very low suction power, most of them have special turbo modes that give them short bursts of enormous power to clean up the heavy mess. These types of vacuums are lightweight and very easy to handle making them the best for cleaning profile areas and narrow spaces.
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Robotic Vacuums
These types of vacuums are more like futuristic vacuum cleaners that are equipped with advanced AI technologies that allow them to automate their routine chores. All you need is a stable WIFI connection, a special Smartphone app, and perhaps a smart home feature for them to work independently. These vacuums have a large diameter and are mostly cordless. However, unlike the traditional cordless vacuums that must be plugged into a power source manually, robotic vacuums can recharge themselves by getting back to their docking stations once they’re low in power.
How to Maintain a Vacuum Cleaner
Now, your vacuum cleaner is an investment that works hard to keep your home looking great and smelling nice. With all the heavy work your vacuum is tasked to do on a daily or a weekly basis, a regular checkup is usually an absolute must if you want to protect your investment. For that reason, this section has discussed at least seven maintenance tips that will keep your corded or best cordless vacuum under 300 in great shape.
- Empty the Bag Often:
Always empty the bag regularly. As easy as it sounds, most people often fail to empty their litter bags causing the vacuum to get overwhelmed with tons of litter. To keep your machine working in great shape, always empty the bag when it’s at least 2/3 full.
- Replace the Bag:
For those using the bagged versions, you need to replace the bags regularly to prevent them from stinking.
- Attach the Bag Properly:
Although it sounds easy, attaching your bag properly when vacuuming is one area most people fail to perfect. That’s because of the many vacuum brands and models that are available most of which have complex features. Failure to attach the litter bag well can cause debris to leak on moving parts causing clogging and other damages.
- Clean the Brush Roll:
The brush roll is very useful in cleaning high-pile carpets and removing pet hair from your floor. Over time, pet hair and other stringed items can get wrapped around the brush roll making it hard to work effectively. So, to prevent these floss, hair, and strings from getting tangled on your brush, you need to clean it regularly.
- Clean the Filter and the Hose:
The filters and the hose attachments are two other accessories that need to be checked often. We all know the purpose of the filter is to keep the air clean and fresh. Since it’s responsible for trapping allergens and other harmful particles, removing it once in a while can really help in maintaining optimal performance.
About the hose, sometimes large objects can find their way inside the hose causing clogging issues over time. Since this can affect its suction power, you need to stick a hook inside to check whether there are any objects trapped in the inside.
- Lubricate Moving Parts:
Moving parts such as the rotating wheels, swiveling heads, and brush rolls need to be lubricated more often to provide ease of maneuverability and functionality.
- Have it Serviced:
Last but not least, you need to have your vacuum cleaner serviced after some time. This way, some damages, as well as possible wear and tear, will be identified by a professional for replacement of such parts to be scheduled.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
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When Should I Change the Dust Bag?
The time needed to change the dust bag will greatly vary depending on how frequently you vacuum your floor. If you’re vacuuming an average floor routinely, then 8 to 12 weeks will be enough to replace the dust bag. On the other hand, if you vacuum your floor less often, then the dust bag can stay for a much longer time. However, there are some notable signs that can indicate when it’s time to replace the dust bag. For instance, if you notice louder sounds or a reduction in suction power, then it’s a clear sign the dust bag is almost full.
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How Often Should I Vacuum My Floor?
If your floor is carpeted, vacuuming at least twice a week is enough if you’re living as an average family. However, if you have pets around, then you’ll need to vacuum the carpet cleaned daily to get rid of any pet hair that might be embedded in it. When it comes to hard floors, cleaning them once a week will be enough. If you have guests around, you need to inform them to remove their shoes when getting in. You can also add rugs right at the door where people can dust their shoes before getting in.
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How Do You Prevent a Vacuum Cleaner From Smelling?
Well, whether it’s the best vacuum under 300 or an expensive model that goes well above this price range, deodorizing your vacuum to prevent it from releasing foul odor is an absolute must if you really wish to keep your home smelling nice and fresh. In most cases, a foul odor is caused by dirty filters, hoses, containers, and attachments. So, to get rid of these odors, you need to clean all these parts regularly by wiping them and dishwashing them if necessary.
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Can A Vacuum Cleaner Clean Waxed Floors?
As you all know, waxed floors tend to be soft and very delicate. For that reason, extra care must be observed to keep the floor safe from scratches and scuff marks. If you’re planning to use a vacuum to clean such delicate floors, then you need to clean the wheels of your vacuum to remove small debris that might scratch the floor. You also need to use a smooth brush attachment that won’t compromise the sheen of the polish when cleaning.
Final Verdict
As you can see, finding the best vacuum under 300 should not cost you an arm and a leg. From what you’ve just seen in our review section, all the 15 vacuum cleaners we’ve discussed are reliable and highly functional. Most of them are backed with lots of new technologies, sophisticated features, and a wide range of tools that make cleaning your floor as easy as possible.
Other than the best vacuums, this guide has also provided a detailed buyer’s guide section that has offered you all the information that’s needed to make an informed decision. So, in case you’re feeling frustrated, lost, or totally overwhelmed, this insightful guide has offered you every bit of information you’ll need before pulling that trigger.