10 Best Lift Away Vacuums 2025 in the United States

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is designed particularly for pet owners and those looking for a versatile cleaning experience. One standout feature is the lift-away functionality, which allows you to detach the pod for cleaning above-floor areas like stairs or furniture, making it a great option for homes with pets. The HEPA filtration system ensures that 99.9% of dust and allergens are trapped inside, promoting better air quality—a significant benefit for allergy sufferers.

Its swivel steering makes maneuvering the vacuum around furniture and tight spaces effortless, adding to the user experience. The vacuum also boasts an extra-large dust cup, which can hold up to 0.87 liters, reducing the frequency of emptying during cleaning sessions.

Weighing 13.7 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially if you have to carry it upstairs frequently. Additionally, the noise level at 80 dB can be on the louder side compared to other models, which may be a concern if you prefer quieter operation. The vacuum comes with useful attachments like a pet power brush and crevice tool for specialized cleaning tasks, but the lack of cordless options means you’ll be tethered to a power outlet during use, limiting portability.

The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum offers a versatile cleaning experience with its lift-away functionality, allowing for easy cleaning of hard-to-reach areas like under furniture or on stairs. The HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology are excellent for trapping dust and allergens, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers. Its advanced swivel steering and LED headlights make maneuvering and spotting hidden debris easier, which is a big plus for thorough cleaning.

The vacuum also comes with useful attachments including a wide upholstery tool, dusting brush, and crevice tool, enhancing its versatility for different cleaning tasks. However, it has some drawbacks. At 15.5 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for some users, reducing its portability slightly. The dustbin capacity of 0.88 quarts is relatively small, meaning it may require frequent emptying during larger cleaning sessions.

Additionally, it is not cordless, so mobility is limited by the 8.4-foot hose and cord length. The noise level is 80 dB, which is moderately loud. Despite these minor issues, the Shark NV501 stands out as a robust option for anyone needing an efficient and versatile lift-away vacuum, particularly in homes with multiple surfaces and those who prioritize allergen control.

The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile cleaning solution, particularly for homes with pets or allergies. One of its standout features is the Lift-Away functionality, which allows you to detach the vacuum pod for easy portability. This makes it ideal for cleaning above-floor areas like stairs and furniture, enhancing its usability.

Another strength is its powerful suction, coupled with a lightweight design of just 12.5 pounds, making it easy to maneuver. The vacuum also features an anti-allergen complete seal technology paired with a HEPA filter, which effectively traps dust and allergens, making it a suitable option for allergy sufferers. The brush roll shutoff feature is handy for transitioning between carpet and bare floor cleaning without hassle.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. The noise level is rated at 80 dB, which is somewhat high and might be disruptive in quiet environments. Additionally, while the 1.1-quart dustbin capacity is decent, it may require more frequent emptying, especially in homes with pets. The corded design may limit mobility compared to cordless options, and some users might find the weight still a bit cumbersome in tight spaces despite its lightweight claim. In terms of accessories, it comes with a wide upholstery tool and a crevice tool that enhance its cleaning versatility. The swivel steering feature makes it easier to navigate around furniture and corners, which is beneficial.