It’s indeed important to distinguish between the terms “Dustbuster” and “handheld vacuum.” The trademarked term “Dustbuster” specifically refers to a handheld vacuum produced by Black and Decker, designed for easy and convenient cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.
On the other hand, a more general term is “handheld vacuum,” which encompasses a broader range of devices. Some handheld vacuums, as you mentioned, may have additional features like a small hose attached to the cleaning head, requiring the use of both hands.
Despite their differences, both Dustbusters and other handheld vacuums serve the common purpose of providing quick and convenient cleaning solutions, making them valuable tools for various household tasks.
IRIS USA, Inc.
The Iris USA handheld vacuum stands out as a top-performing cordless option, boasting a svelte design and hassle-free assembly that allows users to start cleaning immediately after a quick charge. The superb suction power of this vacuum impressively tackles messes on high chairs, carpets, and upholstery, swiftly and effectively eliminating intentional challenges posed during testing. Notably, the vacuum’s sleek cylindrical design effortlessly maneuvers over various surfaces, only faltering when the cartridge is full. Its compact and lightweight body distinguishes it as one of the smallest and lightest models tested, ensuring users experience minimal fatigue during cleaning. Despite the need for more frequent emptying due to its smaller size, the vacuum’s quick and efficient cleaning abilities, coupled with its affordability, make it a standout option in the cordless vacuum market. The playful acknowledgment of reaching for this vacuum over a Dyson adds a touch of humor to the overall positive review, emphasizing its practicality and value for everyday use.
Battery Life: 20 minutes on low, 15 minutes on high | Weight: 1.1 lbs. | Bin Capacity: 3.4 oz. | Attachments: Charging cord | HEPA Filter: No
Bissell Cleanview Deluxe
After an exhaustive 11-hour hands-on testing session, the Bissell Cleanview Deluxe Corded Handheld Vacuum emerged as the clear frontrunner, earning high marks across crucial categories. Setting the tone with a perfect 5 out of 5 in set-up, this bagless vacuum offered unparalleled convenience as it came pre-assembled, ready for immediate use right out of the box.
Particularly excelling on hardwood floors, the lightweight Bissell Cleanview effortlessly handled tasks, such as cleaning Cheerios, popcorn, and flour in a single pass. Its performance remained stellar on low-pile carpets, effortlessly suctioning up debris. While facing a slight challenge on longer carpets, requiring multiple passes for certain items, its super-powerful suction shone through, especially with tough messes like flour and hair on medium-pile carpets and Cheerios and popcorn on high-pile surfaces.
The inclusion of an arm attachment proved useful in various settings, from faux living rooms to car consoles. However, some caveats were noted, such as the two-handed operation required when using the hose, with one hand holding the vacuum and the other managing the hose. The top handle, though beneficial for weight distribution, slightly compromised portability for such a compact device.
The vacuum’s hose demonstrated sufficient length to reach under furniture, but its overall shape limited access to tighter spots. Additionally, the corded nature of the device, while understandable for its size, was identified as a drawback, with the ideal scenario being a cordless design. Despite its compact dimensions, the Bissell Cleanview exhibited the powerful suction and dirt storage capacity typically associated with larger vacuums, albeit with the trade-off of increased noise – a common characteristic in the vacuum landscape. In conclusion, the Bissell Cleanview Deluxe Corded Handheld Vacuum stood out as a favorite in the corded handheld vacuum category, thanks to its small stature, potent cleaning capabilities, and overall convenience.
Weight: 5 lbs. | Cord Length: 18 ft. | Bin Capacity: 26.4 oz. | Attachments: Hose, crevice tool, wide-mouth tool |
HEPA Filter: Yes
Nicebay
In the era of advanced technology, a handheld vacuum that aligns with modern standards is a must-have, and this tech-savvy model certainly caught our attention. Its standout feature is a circular LED display panel, reminiscent of Dyson vacuums, providing real-time updates on dust levels, vacuum power, and remaining charge. This comprehensive and user-friendly display offers insight into the inner workings of the vacuum, enhancing the overall experience.
The vacuum excelled in performance, passing our crumble tests effortlessly across various surfaces and showcasing its versatility with the crevice tool in tight creases. Beyond functionality, its sleek and futuristic design sets it apart, making it an aesthetically pleasing addition suitable for display on countertops. Moreover, its slim body and lightweight build at just 8.8 ounces make it exceptionally easy to handle and repeatedly reach for during cleaning sessions.
Despite its overall positive attributes, we noted a couple of drawbacks during usage. Vacuuming clumps of hair from the carpet occasionally resulted in entanglement around the filter, requiring manual extraction. While not uncommon among handheld vacuums, it was a minor inconvenience. Additionally, the small dustbin necessitated periodic trips to the garbage for emptying, a compromise we were willing to make for the vacuum’s lightweight and compact design.
Although the normal price might be on the higher side, the vacuum’s performance, design, and features make it a compelling choice, especially if you can snag it on sale. In conclusion, this tech-savvy handheld vacuum combines functionality with a visually appealing design, making it a convenient and modern cleaning companion, with its few limitations being overshadowed by its overall positive attributes.
Battery Life: 11-26 minutes | Weight: 8.8 oz. | Bin Capacity: Not listed | Attachments: Crevice tool, brush |
HEPA Filter: Yes
Shark Wandvac
Shark, renowned for its innovative vacuums and stylish designs, continues to impress with the Shark Wandvac, emerging as our favorite due to its exceptional lightweight construction and luxurious design, not to mention its outstanding performance. Maneuvering effortlessly across all surfaces, this vacuum efficiently cleared away messes, although its powerful suction occasionally caused it to cling to the fabric of high chairs and upholstery. A notable feature was the mess-free dustbin emptying process – a simple click of a button at the back of the device opened the contraption, releasing captured debris directly into the trash can (a small cautionary note: best to position it right over the bin to avoid creating additional mess).
While we applaud its performance, there’s a consensus that the Shark Wandvac might be a tad overpriced. Savvy shoppers eyeing this featherweight vacuum are advised to keep an eye out for sales. For those seeking a more budget-friendly alternative, our tests revealed that the IonVac, while not as high-end, offered similar functions at a more affordable price point. However, the undeniable power associated with the Shark brand suggests that choosing the Wandvac is opting for reliability and performance. In the end, if you’re drawn to the Shark name and the Wandvac’s allure, sticking with the tried-and-true option might be the way to go.
Battery Life: 10-15 minutes | Weight: 1.4 lbs. | Bin Capacity: oz. | Attachments: Duster crevice tool, multi-surface pet tool | HEPA Filter: No
BISSELL AeroSlim
Ideal for tackling those tricky corners around your work-from-home setup and the intricate spaces your regular vacuum can’t quite reach, the Bissell handheld vacuum is a game-changer. Beyond its sleek appearance, this tiny vacuum boasts capabilities that make it exceptionally effective in cleaning hard-to-reach areas, providing a sparkling clean finish to your home office.
Thanks to its slender, cylindrical shape and additional attachments, this lightweight vacuum effortlessly navigates small spaces, effortlessly reaching under-desk corners and other tight spots. The USB charging capability adds to its convenience, making it suitable for use in home offices or cars, and the sleek design, along with the charging dock, ensures easy storage.
Despite relying on a phone-like USB cord for charging, this diminutive vacuum surprises with its robust suction power. Well-suited for small spaces, it excels in handling various spills and messes, effortlessly tackling dry cereal and clumps of hair in testing. While it showed a slight struggle with strewn flour, a challenge that requires additional effort for most vacuums, it remains a minor hiccup considering the overall performance.
It’s important to note that the small size of this vacuum translates to a smaller dustbin, necessitating more frequent trips to the trash for emptying. However, this minor inconvenience pales in comparison to the impressive cleaning capabilities exhibited by this Bissell model. In conclusion, if you’re seeking a compact yet powerful solution for small spaces and intricate cleaning tasks, this tiny vacuum from Bissell proves to be a mighty performer, ready to handle major messes with ease.
Battery Life: 12 minutes | Weight: 1.37 lbs. | Bin Capacity: 4 oz. | Attachments: 2-in-1 crevice tool and dusting brush, USB charging cable | HEPA Filter: No