Keeping a small living space spotless is easier when your vacuum works with you, not against you. The ideal apartment model is compact enough to tuck into a closet, quiet enough to run without annoying the neighbors, and versatile enough to transition from hardwood to area rugs without losing suction.
Today’s best performers pair high-efficiency motors with noise levels under 70 dB, sealed HEPA systems that trap 99.97 percent of dust and allergens, and lightweight designs that won’t wear you out during a quick Saturday clean-up. After hands-on testing across mixed flooring, pet hair, and tight storage scenarios, these ten vacuums rose to the top.
Best Apartment Vacuums – Ranked
| Rank | Product | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Check Price |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo | Check Price |
| 3 | Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum | Check Price |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away | Check Price |
| 5 | Eureka AirSpeed Ultra Vacuum | Check Price |
| 6 | Shark Rocket Stick Vacuum | Check Price |
| 7 | Dirt Devil Endura Lite Vacuum | Check Price |
| 8 | Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum | Check Price |
| 9 | LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum | Check Price |
| 10 | Coolwill Cordless Stick Vacuum | Check Price |
Best Apartment Vacuums
We’ve researched and selected the top vacuum cleaners for apartment living. These models combine powerful cleaning with space-saving designs that work well in smaller homes. Our picks include options for different floor types, pet owners, and storage needs that fit apartment life perfectly.
Bissell CleanView Compact
This lightweight vacuum offers impressive cleaning power for small living spaces while being easy to store and maneuver.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at under 8 pounds
- Powerful suction despite compact size
- Includes extension wand for hard-to-reach areas
Cons
- Small dirt container needs frequent emptying
- Not ideal for thick carpet or large homes
- All-plastic construction feels less durable
We recently tried the Bissell CleanView Compact in several small apartments, and it’s clear why this vacuum has become so popular with renters. The first thing we noticed was how light it feels – at under 8 pounds, we could easily carry it up stairs and between rooms without strain. Its compact size makes it perfect for tight storage spots in closets or between furniture.
Don’t let the small size fool you. This vacuum packs surprising power for its compact frame. The scatter-free technology really works on hard floors, picking up everything from dust to pet hair without sending debris flying. We found the suction particularly effective on low-pile rugs and laminate flooring, though it struggles a bit with thicker carpets.
The removable extension wand adds versatility we didn’t expect at this price point. We could reach cobwebs in corners and dust on blinds without stretching or climbing. The 23-foot power cord also means less plugging and unplugging as you move through your apartment. For small living spaces where storage is at a premium, this vacuum hits the sweet spot between size, power, and price.
Bissell CleanView Compact
The Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo is an excellent choice for apartment dwellers who need powerful cleaning in a small package.
Pros
- Lightweight (only 10 lbs) and easy to maneuver
- Full-size suction power in a compact design
- Scatter-free technology works well on hard floors
Cons
- Small dirt container needs frequent emptying
- Not cordless which limits range
- Can be loud during operation
We recently tested the Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo in a two-bedroom apartment, and it impressed us with its cleaning power. Despite its small size, this vacuum pulled up dirt and pet hair that our previous vacuum had missed. The compact design makes it simple to store in tight spaces, perfect for apartments with limited closet room.
The quick-release extension wand proved very handy for reaching cobwebs in corners and cleaning above cabinets. We also liked how the scatter-free technology picked up debris on hard floors without sending it flying in all directions. This feature saved us time since we didn’t have to chase scattered dirt around the room.
Pet owners will appreciate that every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, which helps homeless animals. During our testing, the vacuum handled pet hair well, though the 1-liter capacity filled quickly in homes with multiple pets. The touch controls are simple to use, and at 10.9 pounds, most people can carry it up and down stairs without strain. For apartment living, this vacuum strikes a good balance between power and size.
Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum
This lightweight stick vacuum offers impressive versatility for small apartment spaces with a budget-friendly price tag.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at only 3.7 pounds
- Converts between stick, handheld, and stair vacuum
- Strong suction for its size and price
Cons
- Short 15-foot cord limits range
- Small dirt cup needs frequent emptying
- Limited effectiveness on thick carpets
We were pleasantly surprised by how much cleaning power this tiny vacuum packs. The Featherweight lives up to its name—it’s so light that we carried it up and down stairs with just one hand. This makes it perfect for apartment dwellers who need to clean multiple levels without lugging a heavy machine.
Converting between the different modes is quick and simple. We popped off the floor attachment to use it as a handheld vacuum for our couch cushions, then attached the crevice tool to clean tight corners. The whole process took seconds with no complicated mechanisms.
The suction power impressed us most on hard floors. It picked up dust, pet hair, and small debris effectively. On low-pile rugs, it worked well for surface cleaning. However, it struggled with deep-cleaning thicker carpets. The dirt cup is small but easy to empty—just press a button and dump the contents. For apartment living where storage space is limited, this compact vacuum tucks away easily in a closet corner.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is the perfect vacuum for apartment dwellers who need powerful cleaning ability with versatility to handle different surfaces.
Pros
- Detachable pod makes cleaning stairs and under furniture easy
- HEPA filter system traps allergens effectively
- Lightweight design with excellent maneuverability
Cons
- Cord requires outlet switching in larger spaces
- Dust cup needs frequent emptying in very dirty areas
- Slightly bulky to store in tiny apartments
We recently tested the Shark Navigator Lift-Away in several apartments and were impressed by its cleaning power. The vacuum glides smoothly across both carpet and hardwood floors, with a quick switch to change between surfaces. This feature is really helpful when moving from living room rugs to kitchen tile without missing a beat.
The Lift-Away function is what makes this vacuum stand out. We detached the pod to clean under beds and couches without having to move heavy furniture. For apartment living, this flexibility is a game-changer, especially in tight spaces where bulky vacuums can’t reach. The upholstery tool also made quick work of pet hair on our sofa.
Dust and allergen control is excellent with this Shark model. The sealed HEPA filter system trapped fine dust particles that other vacuums often miss or blow back into the air. We found the dust cup easy to empty with its 0.9-quart capacity, though you’ll need to empty it after thorough cleaning sessions. At just under 16 pounds, it’s light enough to carry between rooms but still feels sturdy and well-built for daily use.
Eureka AirSpeed Ultra Vacuum
The Eureka AirSpeed Ultra is a perfect choice for apartment dwellers who need powerful cleaning in a lightweight, compact package.
Pros
- Incredibly lightweight at only 7.7 pounds
- Powerful suction that works on both carpet and hard floors
- Quick-release handle for easy above-floor cleaning
Cons
- Roller brush needs regular cleaning to prevent clogging
- Can be noisy during operation
- Cord length is somewhat limiting for larger spaces
We recently tested the Eureka AirSpeed Ultra in several apartment settings, and we were impressed by its cleaning power. Despite its compact size, this vacuum pulled up an amazing amount of dirt and pet hair from both carpets and hard floors. The lightweight design made it easy to carry up and down stairs and maneuver around furniture.
The detachable handle is a standout feature we loved. It let us quickly clean cobwebs from corners and dust from blinds without any hassle. The included crevice tool and dusting brush snap right onto the vacuum, so they’re always within reach when needed. This thoughtful design means no more hunting for attachments.
Clean-up is simple with this model. The bagless design lets you see when it’s time to empty the large 1.7-liter dust cup. We appreciate that the filter is washable, saving money on replacements. Just rinse it out, let it dry, and it’s ready to go again. For apartment living, this Eureka vacuum strikes an excellent balance between power, weight, and price.
Shark Rocket Stick Vacuum
The Shark Rocket is the ideal apartment vacuum thanks to its lightweight design, strong suction power, and versatile cleaning abilities that make it easy to clean any surface in your home.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at under 9 pounds
- Converts to handheld for versatile cleaning
- Excellent maneuverability with swivel steering
Cons
- Corded design limits range
- Small dust cup needs frequent emptying
- Can be top-heavy when using attachments
We recently had the chance to test the Shark Rocket in several apartments, and the results were impressive. This slim stick vacuum weighs less than 9 pounds, making it super easy to carry between rooms or up stairs. The cord provides consistent power without worrying about battery life, though you’ll need to switch outlets when moving between distant rooms.
The vacuum’s ability to transform from a stick to a handheld unit is a game-changer for apartment living. We cleaned baseboards, ceiling corners, and furniture with minimal effort. The included attachments – an upholstery tool, anti-allergen dust brush, and crevice tool – tackled pet hair and dust in tight spaces effectively. Storage is also simple thanks to the convenient hook on the bottom of the wand.
Suction power exceeded our expectations on both carpet and hard floors. The fingertip controls let us easily switch between surface types with no loss of cleaning performance. While the dust cup is on the smaller side, it empties quickly and cleanly. The swivel steering made navigating around furniture and tight apartment corners surprisingly easy. For anyone living in a small to medium-sized apartment with mixed flooring, this Shark model offers excellent value and performance.
Dirt Devil Endura Lite Vacuum
The Dirt Devil Endura Lite offers powerful cleaning performance in a compact, lightweight design that’s perfect for apartment dwellers who need effective cleaning without the bulk.
Pros
- Surprisingly powerful suction for its size
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Quick-release wand extends reach to 6 feet
Cons
- Cord length could be longer
- May feel too short for taller users
- Can be noisy during operation
We recently tested the Dirt Devil Endura Lite in several apartment settings and were impressed by its cleaning abilities. Despite its compact size, this vacuum has serious suction power. The Endura filtration system worked exactly as promised, maintaining strong performance even as the dirt cup filled up.
The lightweight design (just 9 pounds) makes this vacuum easy to carry between rooms or up stairs. We found ourselves reaching for it often for quick cleanups because it wasn’t a hassle to take out and put away. The multi-floor brush roll switched seamlessly between carpet and hard floors during our testing.
One feature we particularly liked was the quick-release wand with included attachments. The crevice tool and dusting brush made cleaning corners and furniture simple. Emptying the dirt cup is truly a one-touch process – no struggling with complicated mechanisms. We just pressed a button and the contents dropped straight into the trash.
For apartment living, storage space matters a lot. This vacuum’s compact size means it fits easily in small closets. While the 150-watt motor isn’t the most powerful on the market, we found it more than adequate for typical apartment cleaning needs.
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum
The Eureka PowerSpeed is an excellent budget-friendly option for apartment dwellers who need strong suction power without a hefty price tag.
Pros
- Surprisingly lightweight for easy movement around apartments
- Works effectively on multiple surfaces including carpets and hard floors
- Large dust bin means fewer trips to the trash
Cons
- Requires regular roller brush cleaning to prevent clogs
- Can be noisy during operation
- Cord management could be improved
We recently tested the Eureka PowerSpeed in several small apartments and were impressed by its cleaning abilities. The upgraded cyclone technology really makes a difference when picking up everything from pet hair to fine dust. At just over 11 pounds, it’s easy to carry between rooms or up stairs in multi-level apartments.
The five height settings proved useful when moving from hardwood floors to area rugs. We found the lowest setting worked great on tile and wood surfaces, while medium settings handled low-pile carpets effectively. The vacuum comes with several attachments that store right on the unit. The crevice tool was particularly helpful for cleaning tight spaces between furniture—a common challenge in smaller apartments.
One feature we appreciated was the large 1.9-liter dust bin. In apartment living, every square foot counts, so not having to empty the bin after every cleaning session saves time. The washable filter is another money-saver that reduces ongoing costs. During our testing, we did need to clean the roller brush twice to maintain suction power, confirming the manufacturer’s recommendation to clean it every two weeks. For apartment dwellers with pets, this vacuum offers great value and performance without taking up too much storage space.
LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum
The LEVOIT LVAC-200 is our top pick for apartment dwellers who need a lightweight, powerful vacuum that handles daily cleanup with minimal fuss.
Pros
- Anti-hair wrap technology actually works
- Lightweight design makes cleaning less tiring
- Impressive 50-minute runtime on eco mode
Cons
- Only 12 minutes of use on turbo mode
- Dustbin could be larger
- Not suitable for wet messes
We recently tested the LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum in our apartment, and it impressed us with its versatility. The vacuum weighs just over 6 pounds, making it easy to carry from room to room. No more sore arms after cleaning sessions!
The anti-tangle brush roll is a game-changer. Pet hair and long human hair that would normally wrap around most vacuum brushes is no problem for this model. We ran it through a bedroom carpet covered in dog fur, and the brush stayed remarkably clean. The 3 power modes let us adjust suction based on the mess – eco mode for quick daily pickups, and turbo when we needed serious cleaning power.
Battery life varies significantly depending on which mode you use. In eco mode with the crevice tool, we got close to the advertised 50 minutes. With the main vacuum head, it lasted about 30 minutes – plenty for a typical apartment cleaning session. The LED lights on the vacuum head helped us spot dust under furniture we would have otherwise missed. Once done, the wall mount provides convenient storage that saves precious apartment space.
Coolwill Cordless Stick Vacuum
We recommend the Coolwill Cordless Vacuum for apartment dwellers seeking powerful cleaning performance without the premium price tag of big-name brands.
Pros
- Impressive 12KPa suction power handles pet hair and debris easily
- Convertible design switches between stick and handheld modes
- Long 40-minute runtime on a single charge
Cons
- 1-liter dust bin needs frequent emptying in larger spaces
- Some users report charger reliability issues
- Might struggle on very thick carpets
After testing this vacuum in our apartment, we were surprised by its cleaning ability. The 160W motor delivers strong suction that picked up everything from fine dust to larger debris on our hardwood floors and low-pile rugs. Its lightweight design made it easy to carry between rooms without feeling tired.
The adjustable telescopic tube is a standout feature we loved. We could extend it from 34 to nearly 42 inches, which meant no more bending over while cleaning under coffee tables or beds. The headlight on the floor brush helped us spot dust in dark corners we would have missed otherwise.
Battery life impressed us during testing. We cleaned our entire 800-square-foot apartment on a single charge with power to spare. The removable battery is convenient – we could charge it separately while still using the vacuum with the spare battery that came in the box. For apartment living, this vacuum hits the sweet spot between performance, versatility and value.
Buying Guide
When shopping for an apartment vacuum, you need to consider several key factors. We’ve put together this guide to help you find the right vacuum for your space.
Size and Storage
Apartments usually have limited storage space. Look for compact vacuums that can fit in small closets or corners. Stick vacuums and handheld models take up less room than traditional uprights.
Noise Level
Thin walls in apartments mean noise matters. Check the decibel (dB) rating before buying. Vacuums under 70 dB are best for apartment living to avoid disturbing neighbors.
Suction Power
Good suction is essential for cleaning effectively. This is often measured in air watts (AW) or pascal (Pa) units.
| Suction Power | Cleaning Ability |
|---|---|
| Low (< 100 AW) | Light dust only |
| Medium (100-150 AW) | Everyday cleaning |
| High (150+ AW) | Deep cleaning, pet hair |
Floor Type Compatibility
Consider what floors you have in your apartment. Some vacuums work better on carpet, while others excel on hardwood or tile.
Weight and Maneuverability
You’ll want a vacuum that’s easy to carry between rooms and around furniture. Lighter models (under 10 pounds) are better for multi-level apartments.
Battery Life for Cordless Models
If you choose a cordless vacuum, check the runtime. We recommend at least 20 minutes of battery life for a typical apartment cleaning session.
Attachments and Versatility
Look for models with tools for different cleaning tasks. Crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and extension wands help clean hard-to-reach areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Apartment living presents unique vacuuming challenges. These questions address common concerns about choosing the right vacuum for different apartment types, floors, and storage situations.
What are the most effective vacuums for small apartments with hardwood floors?
For hardwood floors in small apartments, we recommend vacuums with adjustable suction and soft bristle brushes. The Dyson V8 and Miele Triflex HX1 excel on hardwood surfaces without scratching.
These models come with specialized attachments for edges and corners. Many also convert to handheld units for cleaning furniture and high spaces.
Remember to choose vacuums with felt or rubber wheels that won’t damage your floors during use.
Which affordable vacuum cleaners perform best in studio apartments with carpeting?
Budget-friendly options like the Shark Navigator Lift-Away and Bissell CleanView work well in studio apartments with carpets. These models typically cost between $100-$200 while delivering strong carpet cleaning performance.
We’ve found the Hoover WindTunnel T-Series particularly effective for its price point. It features multi-cyclonic technology that maintains suction even as the bin fills.
Consider vacuums with HEPA filtration if you have allergies or pets in your small space.
How does the suction power compare among top-rated compact vacuums?
Suction power varies significantly among compact vacuums. High-end models like Dyson and Miele typically offer 100-150 air watts of suction, while mid-range brands deliver 70-100 air watts.
Most cordless stick vacuums provide different power modes. The highest settings deliver impressive suction but reduce battery life to 7-15 minutes.
We’ve observed that cyclonic separation technology helps maintain consistent suction even as dust collects.
Which cordless vacuum models are recommended for tight living spaces?
The Shark Rocket Pet Pro and Dyson V11 are excellent cordless options for small apartments. Their wall-mounted docking stations save valuable floor space.
We appreciate the Tineco Pure One S12, which weighs under 6.5 pounds and features smart suction adjustment. This preserves battery life while still cleaning effectively.
Look for models with detachable handheld units for versatility in tight spaces.
What features should one look for in a vacuum when living in an apartment with limited storage?
Prioritize vacuums with vertical storage options or wall mounts in storage-limited apartments. Foldable handles and collapsible designs save significant space.
We recommend 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 models that combine upright, stick, and handheld functions. This eliminates the need for multiple cleaning tools.
Consider lightweight models (under 10 pounds) with slim profiles that can slip between furniture or into narrow closets.
How frequently is vacuuming recommended for maintaining clean apartment environments?
High-traffic areas in apartments should be vacuumed twice weekly, while less-used spaces can be cleaned weekly. This schedule helps manage dust and allergens effectively.
Pet owners should vacuum every 2-3 days to control fur and dander. Using a vacuum with specialized pet attachments makes this task more manageable.
We suggest establishing a regular vacuuming schedule rather than waiting until dirt becomes visible. This prevents particles from embedding deeply in carpets and upholstery.
