What is the best vacuum for vinyl floors?
One vital cleaning rule for vinyl plank floors is to gently clean to avoid scratches. That luster that almost reflects your image can only be managed by acquiring the best vacuum for vinyl plank floors.
Most people confuse vinyl plank floors with vinyl sheet floors and it’s understandable since the differences are minimal but there are distinct features that separate the two. Vinyl plank floors resemblance is almost like that of hardwood while vinyl floors are ideally one or two large sheets.
However, the vacuums recommended here can be used for both. So, if you are looking for the best vacuum for vinyl sheet flooring, you’re in the right place.
Though vinyl plank floors are moisture-resistant and easy to clean, they pose a challenge as they are prone to damage if exposed to extreme heat or cold. They also tend to lose their sparkle over time and not even refining or polishing will bring it back. This is why you need to carefully choose the best vacuum for luxury vinyl plank floors.
In this review, we’re going to list 10 of the best vacuums for vinyl floors, their unique features, pros, and cons. And as a bonus, we give you a few tips on how to lengthen the life span of your vinyl plank flooring.
Comparison of the Best Vacuums for lvp Floors
Before we review the specific products that we recommend as the best vacuums for luxury vinyl floors (lvp floors), here is a summary:
| Best Vacuum for Vinyl Plank Floors | Type | Weight | Power Cord | Capacity | HEPA Filtration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E (Editor's choice) | Upright, bagless | 14 lbs. | 25 ft. | 2.2 dry quarts | Yes |
| 2. Hoover WindTunnel Air UH70400 | Upright, bagless | 12.4 lbs. | 30 ft. | n/s | Yes |
| 3. Shark Flex DuoClean HV391 | Stick/hand, bagless | 9.8 lbs. | 30 ft. | 0.4 dry quarts | No |
| 4. iRobot Roomba 980 | Robot | 8.7 lbs. | n/a | 0.6 liters | Yes |
| 5. Shark Navigator NV352 | Upright, bagless | 12.5 lbs. | 25 ft. | 1.2 dry quarts | Yes |
| 6. BISSELL CrossWave 1785A | Upright, wet-dry | 11 lbs. | 25 ft. | 14.5 oz/28 oz. | No |
| 7. Hoover T-Series WindTunnel Rewind Plus UH70120 | Upright, bagless | 16.5 lbs. | 25 ft. | n/s | Yes |
| 8. Bissell PowerEdge 81L2A | Stick, bagless | 7.5 lbs. | 20 ft. | n/s | No |
| 9. BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster CHV1410L | Handheld | 2.6 lbs. | Cordless | 20.6 oz. | No |
| 10. Eureka NES210 Blaze 3-in-1 Swivel | Stick/hand, bagless | 3.2 lbs. | 18 ft. | 0.55 liters | No |
Reviews of the Best Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors 2024
When you install luxurious vinyl plank flooring, you need a vacuum that will leave it sparkling clean. Also, the vacuum must not leave any scratches. These are the best vacuums for vinyl plank floors in 2024:
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E – best vacuum for vinyl plank floors
Many tests have been done on the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E and it’s amazing how various suppliers have the same view. They all get surprised at how efficient this vacuum is. It owes its performance to its great accessories (the crevice tool, the upholstery tool, the pet power brush, and the dusting brush).
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E has a 25-foot power cord. So, you can certainly reach wall to wall using a single power outlet. The suction supported by the hose enables you to have a great pickup of the debris, pet hair, and allergens. Also, HEPA technology supports this by trapping all that dirt and pollutants in so that they don’t escape back into the air.
Also, the fact that you can move it around easily makes it a suitable solution for both domestic and commercial use. It picks debris fast and effectively.
Then, the lift-away feature adds to the versatility of this vacuum. In case any debris is not picked first-time, especially under furniture, you can separate the canister from the rest of the unit, making it quite easy to reach tough corners.
Features
- Type: upright, bagless
- Weight: 14 pounds
- Power cord: 25 feet
- HEPA filtration
- Cleaning path: 11 inches
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
- Dirt capacity: 2.2 dry quarts
- 1200 Watts
Pros
- It’s quite affordable
- Easy to maneuver
- Strong suction
- Brush shut-off
- Large dust cup capacity
- Versatile as it cleans multiple floors superbly
- Efficient at pet fur and hair pick-up
- Comfortably long power cord
- Easy to empty and clean
- Up to 99.9% effective filtration using HEPA technology
Cons
- A bit heavy for some
- It could use some LED lights
Without a doubt, the Shark NV356E is the best vacuum for lvp floors. Click here to see its current price.
2. Hoover WindTunnel Air Bagless Upright Vacuum UH70400
The recliner feature makes the Hoover WindTunnel UH70400 a unique vacuum. It reclines as smoothly to the floor as it tackles dirty carpets, floors and corners and stairs. This makes it easy to clean under furniture.
Also, its 30-foot cord adds to the versatility since you can cover large areas without needing to change power outlets.
The Hoover WindTunnel UH70400 upright vacuum has a combination of multi-cyclonic and WindTunnel technology. These systems help to create and sustain consistent suction throughout your cleaning experience. So, it has a great ability to loosen and clear embedded dirt as well as remove and suck up large and small debris from both hard floors and carpets.
The vacuums hose is easy to quickly release (at a button’s touch). Therefore, you can easily reach areas far above the floor, edges, corners, and in-between furniture. With this vinyl plank vacuum, you will surely enjoy smooth transitioning between multiple floors.
Lastly, like any good vacuum, this one also has a few necessary attachments. It comes with a telescoping wand, a stair tool, and a three-in-one combination tool.
Features
- Type: upright, bagless
- Weight: 12.4 pounds
- Power cord: 30 feet
- 1200 Watts
- Uses WindTunnel technology
- Multi-cyclonic technology
- Standard sealed allergen system
- Secondary HEPA filter
- 3-in-1 combination tool
Pros
- Powerful, consistent suction
- Efficient at pet fur and hair picking
- Easy to maneuver
- Has brushroll shut-off, essential for vinyl plank floors
- The filters are washable and replaceable
- You can easily access under and in-between furniture
- Excellent filtration system
- Long power cord
Cons
- The dirt cup could be a bit bigger
- Attachments may fall off occasionally
Click here to see its current price.
3. Shark Flex DuoClean Ultra-Light Upright Corded Vacuum HV391
FLEX technology probably gives this vacuum more flexibility than most of its peers. It’s freestanding and the reach under furniture is epic since you can bend/fold it easily. You will also enjoy compact storage with this vacuum as a result.
This is how the Shark FLEX HV391 works:
It’s fitted with a bristle brush alongside a soft brushroll – both engineered to work uniformly. This system is referred to as DuoClean technology. The resultant effect is a combination of deep cleaned, polished surfaces with no scratches, pending dust, dirt, or debris.
This finish is further perfected by clean air resulting from 99.9% trapping of all allergens using Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. Additionally, the Shark Flex DuoClean HV391 is excellent at hair, fur, and dander pickup based on ASTM 1977.
Also, the Shark FLEX HV391 switches swiftly between upright and handheld. This makes cleaning corners, crevices, stairs, and above the floor effortless. Active-Glide Technology offers smooth and quick maneuverability as you clean.
Features
- Type: stick/handheld, bagless
- Weight: 9.8 pounds
- Power cord: 30 feet
- Uses 1 lithium-ion battery
- Dust cup capacity: 0.4 dry quarts
- Uses Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
- Active-Glide technology
- DuoClean technology
Pros
- Powerful suction
- Easy to maneuver
- It’s lightweight
- Perfect results with DuoClean Technology
- Excellent hair pick-up
- Effective filtration
- Long power cord
Cons
- Small dust cup
- The vacuum may easily topple over
Click here to see its current price.
4. iRobot Roomba 980 Robot Vacuum
If you are looking for a good robot vacuum for your vinyl plank flooring, this is it.
The iRobot Roomba 980 vacuum brings you convenience, comfort, and cleanliness – all at a go. Using either Google Assistant or Alexa, you can instruct your device to move around your house picking dirt and debris. Also, it maintains tracks of where it has cleaned and where it’s yet to clean.
This robot vacuum uses a powerful motor and multi-surface brushes to clean and pick up fur, dander, and hair. Everything about this vacuum is amazing; from the way it transitions between multiple-surfaces, to reaching under furniture– all while leaving no debris behind.
The Roomba 980 also has a power-boost option that increases its power when it reaches carpets. The vacuum also uses HEPA-standard filtration to deliver close to 100% of allergen trapping. So, if you need to fight allergies and asthma while keeping your floor clean, this is a perfect partner.
Features
- Type: robot
- Weight: 8.7 pounds
- HEPA filtration
- Voice control (Alexa And Google Assistant)
- Notifies you on your smartphone when it’s done with cleaning
- Multi-surface brushes
- Auto-height adjustment for smooth adaptation to different surfaces
Pros
- Hands-free freedom
- Very strong suction
- Excellent filtration
- Efficient on hair and dander pickup
- Thorough cleaning using multi-surface brushes
- Cleaning head auto-height adjusts to clean various surfaces
- Up to 120 minutes of continuous cleaning – automatically returns to base for recharge
- Supports scheduled cleaning
Cons
- It’s a bit pricey
Click here to see its current price.
5. Shark Navigator Upright Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor NV352
The Shark Navigator NV352, though gentle, has just the right suction for your vinyl plank flooring. It has a suction regulation feature that allows you to choose the right suction amount for optimum results.
Apart from great debris pick-up, it has detailed, thorough pet hair pick-up. It is as great on carpets as it is on hard floors (such as vinyl, of course). The lift away option adds to its versatility so you can trust this vacuum to reach all crevices, in between corners, under furniture, and above-floor areas.
Also, the Shark Navigator Upright Vacuum NV352 has both a HEPA filter and an Anti-Allergy seal. So, close to 100% of all allergens such as dust and pollen are trapped inside the unit.
In the course of cleaning, you have the option of using the turbo brush. However, if you are cleaning a small area, it’s better to release the suction and reduce its effect on the floor nozzle to avoid pulling and pushing the area rugs.
Features
- Type: upright, bagless
- Weight: 12.5 pounds
- 1200 Watts
- HEPA filtration
- Power cord: 25 feet long
- It comes with a pet upholstery tool
- Dirt capacity: 1.2 dry quarts
- Swivel steering – easy to maneuver
Pros
- Great suction
- Effective on multiple floors types
- Excellent hair and fur pick up
- Convenient to use for hard-to-reach areas
- Brushroll shut-off enhances leaves vinyl floor unscathed
- Long power cord – makes cleaning large areas possible in a single plugging
Cons
- May topple over because it’s top-heavy
- The power cord could be longer
Click here to see its current price.
6. BISSELL CrossWave Floor and Carpet Cleaner Wet-Dry Vacuum 1785A
When you think of the Bissell CrossWave 1785A vacuum, imagine cleaning with a bucket and a sponge mop. This is how this vacuum uses its Nylon and Microfiber brushroll. It’s a Dual Action multi-surface cleaner.
The vacuum effectively picks all types and sizes of debris leaving the surface sparkling. If necessary, you can mop the floor after you finish vacuuming. Also, swivel steering enables you to maneuver easily as you clean.
The Bissell CrossWave 1785A Upright Vacuum uses two-tank technology to keep the dirty water separate from clean water. So, you will always have a consistent supply of clean water with the cleaning formula. Then, it is as good on hard floors as it is on area rugs and carpets.
To switch surfaces, you use the smart touch controls that are placed on the handle. It also has an on-demand control for the cleaning solution.
The machine dispenses just the right amount of cleaning solution for a particular surface. It’s easy to empty the dirt can and rinse the brushroll and filters. When you dock Bissell CrossWave and activate the brush roll, it cleans itself.
Lastly, it comes with two brush rolls and their drying stand.
Features
- Type: upright, wet/dry vacuum
- Weight: 11 pounds
- Power cord: 25 feet
- 3500 RPM dual-action brush
- Water tank: 28 oz.
- Dirt tank: 14.5 oz.
- Cleaning path: 12 inches
Pros
- Easy to assemble and use
- Thorough on hair and debris pickup
- Swift and easy to maneuver
- Great for both vacuuming and mopping the floor
- It separates dirty and clean water
Cons
- The power cord could be longer
- A bit loud and heavy
Click here to see its current price.
7. Hoover T-Series WindTunnel Rewind Plus Bagless Upright Vacuum UH70120
First of all, Hoover’s 5-position height adjustment feature already positions the Hoover T-series UH70120 ahead of a majority of its peers. Here, you can transition swiftly and smoothly from high pile carpets to low pile carpets to hard floors.
This versatility is what makes it nearly top the list of the best vacuum for vinyl flooring – especially if you have bits and pieces of carpet and area rugs.
Concerning suction, you have nothing to worry about. This vacuum sucks all debris perfectly. It’s also not hard to move which makes it easy to use. The Hoover T-series UH70120 also uses washable filters.
Amazingly, the vacuum indicates when it’s due for cleaning or the dust cup needs emptying.
Features
- Type: upright, bagless
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Power cord: 25 feet
- 5-level height adjustment
- HEPA-standard filtration
- WindTunnel technology
Pros
- Powerful suction
- Excellent filtration system
- Eases the work of cleaning the ceiling, drapes and other above-ground areas
- Easy to store after use especially because of its retractable cord
- The power button is conveniently placed
Cons
- No brushroll shut-off
- Small dirt bin
- The power cord could be longer
Click here to see its current price.
8. Bissell PowerEdge Pet Hardwood Floor Bagless Cleaner 81L2A
The Bissell PowerEdge 81L2A is a corded vacuum (20 feet long). It has a V-shape design that adds to its versatility. Reaching edges becomes easier which results in swift and thorough cleaning. The wipers at the base of the vacuum are made of a material that attracts hair. This makes it efficient at hair and dander pickup.
Also, this stick vacuum has a swivel head that gives it flexibility. Unlike most vacuums, however, it doesn’t use a brush roll. Instead, cyclonic technology is what enables it to efficiently pick up dirt and debris.
Another plus of Bissell poweredge81L2A is the ease of assembling (quick-to-fix). It’s also very easy to empty and clean.
Features
- Type: stick, bagless
- Weight: 7.5 pounds
- Power cord: 20 feet
- Filtration: cyclonic
- Cleaning path: 11.35 inches
- V-shape design
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Decent suction
- Swivel steering
- Lightweight – easy to carry up and downstairs
- The V-shape design allows easy access to tight spots
- Easy to empty and clean
- Uses minimal power
Cons
- Not a good vacuum for carpets and area rugs
- The power cord is a bit short
Click here to see its current price.
9. BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster Cordless Vacuum CHV1410L
BLACK+DECKER evolved from a tiny machine store in Baltimore. It has now grown into a global industry leader for home and commercial products. The BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L is one of its dynamic innovations. It offers unbeatable suction for both hard floors and carpet cleaning. Its hair and pet fur pick up are epic.
So, if you need a handheld vacuum for your vinyl plank flooring, this is the best pick. It’s no wonder that it is one of the best cordless hand vacuums.
This hand vac uses lithium-ion batteries and can run up to 18 months before the next charge. The smart-charge technology allows you to conveniently leave the charger on. It protects the vacuum by auto-shutting once the battery is fully charged. It takes approximately 4 hours to recharge.
This is your pick and use vacuum because it allows you to instantly clean in case of spills. The fact that it’s so light yet so efficient enables you to keep your house spotless. Also, you can see the dirt collected in the translucent dirt bowl. So, you will know when to empty. It’s also quite easy to empty and clean.
Features
- Type: handheld vacuum
- Weight: 2.6 pounds
- Cordless (uses rechargeable lithium-ion battery)
- 6 oz. dirt capacity
- 2 Watts, 16V
- Removable, washable bowl and filters
- Smart-charge technology
- Cyclonic technology
- Translucent bagless dirt bowl
Pros
- Powerful suction
- Lightweight
- Cleans multiple surfaces
- Easy to empty dirt and clean
- Convenient to use, travel with, and store
- It comes with a crevice tool and a brush
- 2 years limited warranty
Cons
- Though the battery has long-life, you cannot replace it, which renders the vacuum useless if the battery dies
- Its extended reach falls short for spaces way above the floor, especially the ceiling
Click here to see its current price.
10. Eureka NES210 Blaze 3-in-1 Swivel Lightweight Stick Vacuum
Light vacuums are assumed to be ineffective. However, that’s not the case with this vacuum, that’s not the case. The Eureka NES210 Blaze 3-in-1 vacuum has amazing suction, whether you are using it as a hand or a stick vac. It also passes the test when it comes to dirt, dust, debris, and hair pick-up.
This vacuum also offers great swivel steering, and maneuvers easily along and under the furniture. Its power cord measures 18 feet. While this is not too convenient for large rooms, it works pretty well for most homes.
As mentioned above, you can easily convert Eureka NES210 Blaze from a stick to hand vacuum and back. This enables you to easily handle above-floor cleaning.
It also has a very important attachment – you can use the crevice tool to handle the difficult spots to reach. It could be between couches, under furniture, corners, cracks, and crevices. You can also use it for cleaning motor vehicles, stairs, cushions, and kitchen surfaces.
Features
- Type: stick/handheld, bagless
- Weight: 3.2 pounds
- 18-foot power cord
- Cleaning path: 9.44 inches
- Motor: 240W, 2 Amps
- 3-in-1 functionality
- Swivel steering
- Washable filters
- Capacity: 0.55 liters
Pros
- Lightweight
- Quite affordable
- Easy to use
- The nozzle offers great suction for all debris
- It’s a multi-surface cleaner
- Great on vinyl plank floors
- Easy to maneuver with swivel steering
Cons
- Very short power cord
- The dirt bin could be bigger
Click here to see its current price.
Tips on How to Maintain Vinyl Plank Floors
First, let’s start with the critical part: DO NOT drag furniture on your vinyl plank flooring. This is the simplest way to tear and damage your beautiful floor. So, when it happens, don’t blame it on fragility. Just take caution ahead of time.
Secondly, make it a habit to regularly sweep, mop or vacuum. Only use the best vacuum for vinyl plank flooring because it will lengthen your floor’s life span. If your vinyl plank floor is newly installed, give the adhesive time (at least 3 days) to hold.
Lastly, in case of a tear, take remedial action fast before it spreads. Over time, you will notice it helps to retain the floor’s beauty. A seam sealer will repair just fine. In case of spills, try to wipe it off quickly before it dries to avoid stains.
Conclusion
What is the best vacuum for vinyl floors? Well, there are plenty of options, but only a few are really worth your time. Whichever you decide to pick from these 10, you won’t be disappointed.
Nothing will save the day like a good vacuum. So, get one that has a powerful but steady suction. Most preferably, you need a lightweight that is easy to maneuver so you don’t use force to clean. These are the best vacuums for vinyl plank floors in 2024:
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E
- Hoover WindTunnel Air Bagless Upright Vacuum UH70400
- Shark Flex DuoClean Ultra-Light Upright Corded Vacuum HV391
- iRobot Roomba 980 Robot Vacuum
- Shark Navigator Upright Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor NV352
- BISSELL CrossWave Floor and Carpet Cleaner Wet-Dry Vacuum 1785A
- Hoover T-Series WindTunnel Rewind Plus Bagless Upright Vacuum UH70120
- Bissell PowerEdge Pet Hardwood Floor Bagless Cleaner 81L2A
- BLACK+DECKER Dustbuster Cordless Vacuum CHV1410L
- Eureka NES210 Blaze 3-in-1 Swivel Lightweight Stick Vacuum