Consumer Reports Best Canister Vacuum Cleaner: Top Picks for Every Home

Finding the best canister vacuum cleaner can be a challenge. Consumer Reports has tested and reviewed top models for you.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the best canister vacuum cleaners according to Consumer Reports. We will highlight features, pros, and cons of top models like the Kenmore Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner, Eureka Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner, Hoover Commercial PORTAPOWER, and more.
These vacuums offer different benefits, such as HEPA filters, lightweight designs, and powerful suction. Whether you need to clean pet hair, carpets, or hard floors, there’s a model for every need. Read on to find the perfect canister vacuum cleaner for your home.
Kenmore Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner

The Kenmore Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful cleaning tool designed to tackle pet hair and other debris with ease. Featuring an Extended Telescoping Wand, HEPA filtration, 2 Motors, a Retractable Cord, and 4 Cleaning Tools, this vacuum cleaner ensures a thorough and efficient cleaning experience for your home.
Pros:
- Powerful suction thanks to dual motors
- HEPA filtration for cleaner air
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Extended Telescoping Wand for hard-to-reach areas
- Includes 4 versatile cleaning tools
- Retractable cord for convenient storage
Cons:
- Bagged design requires replacement bags
- Heavier compared to some other models
- Cord length may not be sufficient for larger areas
The Kenmore Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner is designed with pet owners in mind. The dual motors provide powerful suction to effectively pick up pet hair, dander, and other debris. The HEPA filtration system ensures that allergens are trapped inside the vacuum, providing cleaner air for your home. This is especially beneficial for households with allergy sufferers.
Additionally, the vacuum’s Extended Telescoping Wand allows you to reach high and low places with ease, making it perfect for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and other hard-to-reach areas. The inclusion of 4 versatile cleaning tools means you have the right accessory for any cleaning task. However, the bagged design means you will need to purchase replacement bags periodically. Despite being lightweight, some users may find it heavier compared to other vacuum models. The retractable cord is a convenient feature, but its length may not be sufficient for larger spaces.
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Kenmore 81214 200 Series Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum

The Kenmore 81214 200 Series Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum with HEPA, 2 Motor System, and 3 Cleaning Tools in Orange is an excellent choice for pet owners. This vacuum cleaner is designed to tackle pet hair and allergens efficiently, ensuring a cleaner home environment.
Pros:
- HEPA filtration for capturing allergens and dust
- Lightweight design for easy maneuverability
- 2 motor system for powerful suction
- Comes with 3 cleaning tools for versatile cleaning
- Pet friendly features for efficient pet hair removal
Cons:
- Bagged design requires replacement bags
- 22.6 pounds weight may be heavy for some users
- Orange color may not appeal to everyone
The Kenmore 81214 200 Series Vacuum stands out due to its powerful 2 motor system, which provides robust suction, making it highly effective in picking up pet hair and other debris. The HEPA filtration system is a significant advantage for households with allergy sufferers, as it captures small particles that other vacuums might miss. Additionally, the vacuum’s lightweight design and the inclusion of 3 cleaning tools make it versatile and easy to use on various surfaces.
However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The bagged design means you will need to purchase replacement bags, which could be an ongoing cost. At 22.6 pounds, some users might find it a bit heavy to carry around, especially when cleaning multiple rooms or stairs. Lastly, while the orange color adds a touch of vibrancy, it might not match everyone’s aesthetic preferences. Overall, the Kenmore 81214 200 Series Vacuum is a solid choice for pet owners seeking a reliable and efficient cleaning solution.
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Aspiron Canister Vacuum Cleaner

The Aspiron Canister Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful and efficient cleaning solution, designed to tackle various cleaning needs with its 1400W motor and multi-cyclonic filtration system. This bagless vacuum cleaner features 2 anti-allergen HEPA filters, making it ideal for pet owners and allergy sufferers. The 3.5QT dust cup provides ample capacity for extended cleaning sessions, and the vacuum comes with 4 versatile tools to handle different surfaces and tasks.
Pros:
- Powerful 1400W motor for efficient cleaning.
- Multi-cyclonic filtration system for better suction and debris separation.
- 2 anti-allergen HEPA filters to capture fine particles and allergens.
- Large 3.5QT dust cup for less frequent emptying.
- Includes 4 tools for various cleaning tasks.
- Corded design ensures consistent power without the need for recharging.
Cons:
- Corded design may limit mobility and reach compared to cordless models.
- Weighs 16 pounds, which might be heavy for some users.
- Bagless design requires regular maintenance of the dust cup and filters.
The Aspiron Canister Vacuum Cleaner stands out with its powerful 1400W motor and multi-cyclonic filtration system, ensuring thorough cleaning of various surfaces, including hard floors, carpets, and pet hair. The inclusion of 2 HEPA filters is a significant advantage for those prone to allergies, as it effectively captures fine dust and allergens, promoting a cleaner and healthier living environment. The large 3.5QT dust cup allows for longer cleaning sessions without frequent emptying, making it convenient for larger homes.
Despite its many strengths, the corded design of the Aspiron Canister Vacuum Cleaner may be a drawback for users seeking more mobility and reach. Additionally, the vacuum’s weight of 16 pounds could be cumbersome for some individuals, especially when carrying it up and down stairs. The bagless design also necessitates regular maintenance of the dust cup and filters to ensure optimal performance. Overall, the Aspiron Canister Vacuum Cleaner is a robust and reliable cleaning tool, particularly suited for those who prioritize powerful suction and effective allergen filtration.
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Eureka Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner

The Eureka Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner is a lightweight and versatile vacuum designed to tackle both carpets and hard floors. With its sleek silver and black design, it not only performs efficiently but also looks modern and stylish in any home setting.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Bagless design eliminates the need for replacement bags
- Effective on both carpets and hard floors
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons:
- Smaller dust capacity compared to larger models
- Shorter power cord may limit range
- Manual cord rewind can be inconvenient
The Eureka Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner stands out for its lightweight design, making it highly portable and easy to use throughout the house. Whether you need to clean thick carpets or smooth hard floors, this vacuum cleaner is versatile enough to handle both surfaces efficiently. Its bagless design means you won’t have to worry about purchasing replacement bags, saving you both time and money in the long run.
However, it’s worth noting a few drawbacks. The vacuum has a smaller dust capacity, which means you might need to empty it more frequently, especially if you have a larger home. Additionally, the shorter power cord might limit your range, requiring you to switch outlets more often. Despite these minor inconveniences, the Eureka Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner remains a strong contender for those seeking a reliable and stylish cleaning solution for their home.
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Hoover Commercial Portapower Lightweight Canister Vacuum Cleaner

Introducing the Hoover Commercial PORTAPOWER Lightweight Canister Vacuum Cleaner with Attachments, a portable, carriable, handheld, small, professional-grade bagged vacuum cleaner designed for efficiency and convenience. Weighing just 8 pounds, this vacuum cleaner is perfect for both commercial and home use, offering powerful cleaning performance in a compact design.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Portable design for easy maneuverability
- Comes with various attachments
- Professional-grade cleaning performance
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons:
- Requires replacement bags
- Corded design limits mobility
- Noisy operation
The Hoover Commercial PORTAPOWER Lightweight Canister Vacuum Cleaner stands out due to its lightweight and portable design. This makes it easy to carry around and maneuver, especially in tight spaces. The inclusion of various attachments ensures that you have the right tool for different cleaning tasks, from carpets to hard floors to upholstery. Its professional-grade cleaning performance is a key highlight, making it suitable for both commercial and residential use.
However, there are some downsides to consider. The vacuum cleaner requires replacement bags, which could be seen as an additional expense and inconvenience. The corded design can limit your mobility, particularly in larger areas. Additionally, some users might find the vacuum cleaner’s operation to be noisy. Despite these drawbacks, the Hoover Commercial PORTAPOWER Lightweight Canister Vacuum Cleaner remains a highly efficient and reliable option for those in need of a powerful yet portable cleaning solution.
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Oreck Commercial Xl Pro 5 Super Compact Canister Bagged Vacuum Cleaner

The Oreck Commercial XL Pro 5 Super Compact Canister Bagged Vacuum Cleaner is a lightweight and portable vacuum cleaner designed for professional-grade cleaning. It comes with various attachments, making it versatile and efficient for different cleaning needs. This vacuum cleaner is particularly noted for its extended cleaning reach and compact design, making it easy to store and maneuver.
Pros:
- Lightweight design for easy portability
- Extended cleaning reach for hard-to-reach areas
- Comes with multiple attachments for versatile cleaning
- Professional-grade performance
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons:
- Bagged design might be inconvenient for some users
- Limited color options (only available in black)
The Oreck Commercial XL Pro 5 is an excellent choice for those looking for a professional-grade vacuum cleaner that is both lightweight and portable. Its extended cleaning reach allows users to clean hard-to-reach areas efficiently, while the various attachments make it versatile for different cleaning tasks. The compact design ensures that it can be easily stored in tight spaces, making it ideal for both commercial and residential use.
Despite its numerous advantages, the bagged design might be a drawback for some users who prefer bagless options. Additionally, the vacuum cleaner is only available in black, which might limit choices for those who prefer different colors. Overall, the Oreck Commercial XL Pro 5 offers a balance of portability, performance, and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any cleaning arsenal.
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Rapidsweeper Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner & Blower For Home

The RapidSweeper Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner & Blower is designed for efficient cleaning of your home with its washable HEPA filter, 5L capacity, and 5 adjustable speeds. This lightweight device is perfect for hardwood floors and low to medium pile carpets and comes with a retractable cord for added convenience.
Pros:
- Washable HEPA filter
- 5L capacity
- 5 adjustable speeds
- Lightweight design
- Retractable cord
- Effective on hardwood and low-medium pile carpets
Cons:
- Bagged design requires replacement bags
- Not suitable for high pile carpets
- Limited color option (Black only)
The RapidSweeper Bagged Canister Vacuum Cleaner & Blower stands out with its washable HEPA filter that ensures cleaner air by trapping dust and allergens. Its 5L capacity means fewer interruptions for emptying, making your cleaning routine more efficient. The 5 adjustable speeds allow you to tailor the suction power to the specific cleaning task, whether it’s delicate hardwood floors or more resilient low-medium pile carpets.
In terms of usability, the vacuum’s lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around the house, and the retractable cord adds to the overall convenience by eliminating the hassle of manual cord winding. However, its bagged design means you will need to purchase replacement bags periodically, and it may not be the best option for homes with high pile carpets. Additionally, the vacuum is only available in black, which may not suit everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Makes The Kenmore Pet Friendly Canister Vacuum Unique?
The Kenmore Pet Friendly Canister Vacuum features a HEPA filter, 2 motors, and a retractable cord. It’s ideal for pet owners. The vacuum comes with four cleaning tools and an extended telescoping wand. This ensures a thorough and versatile cleaning experience.
How Effective Is The Aspiron Canister Vacuum Cleaner?
The Aspiron Canister Vacuum Cleaner boasts a 1400W motor and multi-cyclonic filtration. It includes two anti-allergen HEPA filters. The large 3. 5QT dust cup and four tools make it perfect for various surfaces. It’s designed for hard floors, carpets, and pet hair.
Is The Eureka Bagless Canister Vacuum Easy To Use?
Yes, the Eureka Bagless Canister Vacuum is lightweight and user-friendly. It’s suitable for both carpets and hard floors. Its compact design and silver-black color make it stylish and practical. It provides efficient cleaning with minimal effort.
What Are The Benefits Of The Hoover Portapower Canister Vacuum?
The Hoover PORTAPOWER Canister Vacuum is lightweight and portable, weighing only 8 pounds. It’s ideal for professional-grade cleaning. It includes multiple attachments and is great for hard-to-reach areas. The vacuum is perfect for both home and commercial use.
How Does The Oreck Commercial Canister Vacuum Stand Out?
The Oreck Commercial Canister Vacuum is super compact and lightweight. It offers an extended cleaning reach and is highly portable. It includes multiple attachments for versatile cleaning. It’s designed for professional-grade performance.
What Features Does The Rapidsweeper Canister Vacuum Offer?
The RapidSweeper Canister Vacuum includes a washable HEPA filter and a 5L capacity dust bag. It offers five speed settings and a retractable cord. It’s perfect for hardwood and low-medium pile carpets. The vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Conclusion
Choosing the best canister vacuum cleaner can make a huge difference in your cleaning routine. We’ve discussed several top-rated models, each with unique features. The kenmore models offer powerful suction and hepa filtration, ideal for pet owners. The aspiron provides a bagless option with multi-cyclonic filtration, perfect for allergy sufferers.
Eureka’s lightweight design suits both carpets and hard floors. Hoover’s portapower and oreck’s compact models are great for professional cleaning needs. Finally, the rapidsweeper combines a washable hepa filter with a large dust capacity. Each vacuum has its strengths, so consider your specific needs.
Whether it’s pet hair, allergens, or versatility, one of these models will fit your lifestyle. Make an informed choice and enjoy a cleaner home. Happy cleaning!