10 Best Hardwood Vacuums 2025 in the United States

The Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum is designed to be a convenient and efficient choice for cleaning hardwood floors and other surfaces. Its standout feature is the automatic emptying system which empties the dustbin into a sealed base every time you return it to the dock. This keeps dust exposure minimal, which is great for allergy sufferers and anyone wanting to avoid mess during cleanup. The vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver, weighing about 11 pounds and offering a 40-minute runtime, allowing you to clean an entire room or more without stopping.

It has a multi-surface brush roll that automatically adjusts to different floor types, making it effective on hardwood as well as carpets. The HEPA filter captures 99.97% of dust and allergens, helping keep air clean while you vacuum. Attachments like a crevice tool and pet multi-tool add versatility for corners and pet hair. Plus, LED headlights help find hidden debris on floors. Being cordless adds to ease of use, though its 5-hour charging time means you’ll want to plan ahead for long cleaning sessions. The vacuum also offers a quiet mode for less noise while charging.

One downside is its dust capacity of 1.3 liters, which might require frequent emptying if you have a large area to clean. Also, while it’s lighter than some other Shark models, it’s not the lightest stick vacuum available. This vacuum suits those wanting a hands-free emptying feature, good allergen control, and solid performance on hardwood floors without the hassle of cords.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a strong contender in the hardwood vacuum category, offering several features aimed at making cleaning efficient and convenient. Its powerful suction is great for deep-cleaning carpets and effectively tackling bare floors, which is essential for hardwood surfaces. The lift-away functionality allows you to detach the pod, making it easier to clean under furniture or above-floor areas like upholstery and stairs. This versatility can be especially beneficial for homes with pets, as it includes attachments designed for picking up pet hair effortlessly.

One of the standout features is the HEPA filter combined with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. This means it effectively traps dust and allergens, making it a suitable choice for allergy sufferers. The large dust cup capacity of 0.9 quarts reduces the frequency of emptying, enhancing your cleaning sessions.

On the downside, being a corded vacuum limits mobility compared to cordless models. While the swivel steering provides good maneuverability, the cord can be a nuisance in large areas. Additionally, some might find the vacuum a bit heavy, which could be a concern for those with limited strength or mobility. The noise level is generally manageable, but it's worth noting that, like most upright vacuums, it can be louder than some quieter models. For those who desire a lightweight, ultra-quiet vacuum experience, this might not be the best option.

The Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum (model IX141) is a versatile and convenient option for those looking to clean hardwood floors, carpets, and pet hair with ease. One of its standout features is the HYPERVELOCITY suction, which promises strong cleaning performance for everyday messes and high-traffic areas. The vacuum offers up to 40 minutes of runtime, which is sufficient for most cleaning sessions, though this can vary based on usage and settings. Weighing just 6.89 pounds, it is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it suitable for quick cleanups or extended cleaning periods without causing fatigue.

The removable handheld vacuum is a practical addition for above-floor cleaning tasks and hard-to-reach spots, further enhancing its versatility. Additionally, the LED headlights are a thoughtful feature that helps to spot hidden debris, ensuring thorough cleaning. The XL dust cup with a CleanTouch Dirt Ejector allows for easy and hygienic disposal of collected debris. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The noise level at 80 dB might be a bit loud for some users, especially during prolonged use. Charging time is relatively long at 240 minutes, which could be inconvenient if you need to use the vacuum multiple times a day. The vacuum also requires assembly, which may be an additional step for some users.

The Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum excels in suction power, ease of use, and versatility, making it particularly suitable for households with pets and mixed floor types. However, its noise level and charging time are factors that should be taken into account.