10 Best Apartment Vacuums 2026 in the United States

The Shark PowerPro Plus Cordless Stick Vacuum is a strong choice for apartment dwellers needing a versatile, easy-to-use vacuum. Its cordless design and lightweight frame (about 7 pounds) make it easy to carry up and down stairs or move quickly around smaller spaces. The vacuum’s HyperVelocity suction is powerful enough for everyday messes and especially effective at picking up pet hair, thanks to a self-cleaning brushroll that prevents hair wrap. FloorDetect technology automatically adjusts the brush speed, so it works well on both carpets and hard floors without needing to change attachments manually.

The HEPA filtration system with an anti-allergen complete seal traps over 99.97% of dust and allergens, which is great if you or your neighbors have allergies. It also includes an 8-inch duster crevice tool and converts into a handheld vacuum for cleaning furniture or tight spots. The LED headlights help find dust in darker corners, adding a practical touch.

One potential drawback is the 50-minute battery runtime, which is good for most apartments but might be limiting for deeper or extended cleaning sessions. Also, while 7 pounds is fairly light, some may find it a bit heavy compared to ultra-light models. The vacuum operates quietly enough for shared living spaces but isn’t the quietest option available. This Shark model effectively balances powerful cleaning, allergy-friendly features, and convenience, making it well suited for apartment living, especially for pet owners.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a solid choice for apartment dwellers needing a versatile and effective vacuum. It offers strong suction that works well on both carpets and hard floors, which is helpful for cleaning different surfaces in a small living space. The Lift-Away feature is a real plus, allowing you to detach the canister to reach under furniture or clean stairs and upholstery easily. This makes it handy for tight spots common in apartments.

Its HEPA filter combined with anti-allergen technology traps dust and allergens, making it suitable for allergy sufferers or pet owners. Speaking of pets, the included upholstery tool is designed to pick up pet hair efficiently, adding to its appeal if you have furry friends. Maneuverability is enhanced by swivel steering, so moving around furniture or corners feels smooth, though the vacuum weighs about 16 pounds, which is on the heavier side for regular carrying.

This model has a large 0.9-quart dust cup, meaning fewer interruptions to empty it during cleaning sessions. Being corded ensures consistent power without worrying about battery life. It comes with basic but useful attachments like a crevice tool for tight spaces. One downside is the weight, as it might be a bit heavy if you need to carry it up and down stairs often. Also, while filters are washable, they require air drying for 24 hours, so maintenance takes some planning. The vacuum balances power, filtration, and versatility well, making it a practical option for apartment cleaning, especially if you have pets and need to manage allergens.

The Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum is a versatile option for apartment living, especially benefiting those who need a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver vacuum. As a cordless model, it offers the convenience of not being tethered to an outlet, which is great for moving across different rooms. The vacuum runs up to 60 minutes on a full charge, which is generally sufficient for cleaning a whole apartment.

The three power modes (Auto, Eco, and Boost) provide flexibility for various cleaning needs, from everyday tasks to intensive spot cleaning. The LCD screen is a helpful feature, displaying power modes, maintenance alerts, and battery life in real-time. The advanced whole-machine filtration system captures 99.99% of particles, which is ideal for those with allergies or pets. Additionally, it converts to a handheld vacuum, making it versatile for cleaning areas like cars and stairs.

The included attachments, like the Motorbar cleaner head and Hair screw tool, are effective for dealing with long hair and pet hair, minimizing tangles. However, the small dust capacity (0.2 gallons) means frequent emptying, which might be inconvenient for some users. The noise level at 70 dB is relatively standard but may still be noticeable in smaller apartments. Weighing 6.6 pounds, it strikes a balance between being sturdy and easy to carry. The initial investment might be higher compared to other models, but the durability and performance can justify the cost over time. If you seek a powerful, flexible, and easy-to-use vacuum for apartment living, the Dyson V11 Origin is a strong contender.