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10 Best Upright Hepa Vacuums 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | Swivel Steering | HEPA Filter | Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Dusting Brush Included | For Carpets & Hard Floors | White/Silver | NV356E

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,350
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
119265 reviews

Suction Power
Delivers surprisingly strong suction that outperforms older, heavier vacuums, effectively pulling deep dirt from carpets in just minutes.
Weight and Maneuverability
The Lift-Away feature makes cleaning stairs and hard-to-reach areas effortless, allowing easy detachment and portability.
Attachments and Accessories
Switching between tools stored conveniently by the handle lets you clean counters, baseboards, and corners without hassle.
HEPA Filtration
Simple to empty and maintain, with a canister that holds a good volume of debris and filters that wash easily to keep odors away.
Dust Capacity
Simple to empty and maintain, with a canister that holds a good volume of debris and filters that wash easily to keep odors away.
Cord Length
The corded design supports extended cleaning sessions without worrying about battery life, plus it doubles as a dusting tool.
Brush Roll Features
Brush roll can get stuck and smell if used on very thin or microfiber rugs, indicating it’s less ideal for delicate or specialty floor coverings.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away (NV356E) is a solid choice if you want an upright vacuum with strong HEPA filtration, which traps 99.9% of dust and allergens—great for allergy sufferers. Its Lift-Away feature is handy, allowing you to detach the main pod and clean hard-to-reach spots like stairs and furniture. The brush roll can be turned off, so you can switch easily between carpets and hard floors without scratching. It’s especially helpful for pet owners since it includes a pet power brush that lifts pet hair and dander effectively.

Weighing about 13.7 pounds, it’s manageable to carry around, and the swivel steering makes it easy to move in tight spaces or around furniture. The dust cup holds just under 1 liter, which means fewer trips to empty it, though some might find this capacity average compared to larger models. The cord length is standard, allowing decent reach but may require plugging and unplugging in bigger rooms. Included tools like the crevice tool and dusting brush add versatility for cleaning corners, baseboards, and delicate items.

While it’s not the quietest vacuum on the market, noise levels are reasonable for home use. Some users may find it a bit bulky compared to stick vacuums, but its upright form is balanced by strong suction and effective allergen control. For those who want a dependable vacuum that tackles pet hair, traps allergens well, and can handle multiple floor types, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a fitting option. It is especially suited for homes with pets and allergy concerns but might be less ideal if you prioritize ultra-lightweight design or extra-large dust capacity.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,350
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
119265 reviews

Suction Power
Delivers surprisingly strong suction that outperforms older, heavier vacuums, effectively pulling deep dirt from carpets in just minutes.
Weight and Maneuverability
The Lift-Away feature makes cleaning stairs and hard-to-reach areas effortless, allowing easy detachment and portability.
Attachments and Accessories
Switching between tools stored conveniently by the handle lets you clean counters, baseboards, and corners without hassle.
HEPA Filtration
Simple to empty and maintain, with a canister that holds a good volume of debris and filters that wash easily to keep odors away.
Dust Capacity
Simple to empty and maintain, with a canister that holds a good volume of debris and filters that wash easily to keep odors away.
Cord Length
The corded design supports extended cleaning sessions without worrying about battery life, plus it doubles as a dusting tool.
Brush Roll Features
Brush roll can get stuck and smell if used on very thin or microfiber rugs, indicating it’s less ideal for delicate or specialty floor coverings.
#2

Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter, Anti-Allergen Technology, Swivel Steering, Ideal for Carpet, Stairs, & Bare Floors, with Wide Upholstery & Crevice Tools, Lavender

Rating
9.4
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Brush Roll Features

Most important from
119265 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum delivers surprisingly strong suction that extracts more dirt from carpets in minutes than older, heavier models managed over years.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its lightweight design and ergonomic handle make it nimble and easy to maneuver, especially when cleaning stairs or above-floor surfaces using the lift-away feature.
Brush Roll Features
The brush roll shutoff and swivel steering enable smooth transitions between carpet and bare floors while reaching tight corners effortlessly.
Dust Capacity
The canister is easy to empty and clean, maintaining good suction and freshness with regular washing of filters.
Cord Length
Corded power ensures consistent suction without the worry of battery life, supporting frequent and extended cleaning sessions.

The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away is a solid choice if you're looking for an upright vacuum with HEPA filtration that helps trap dust and allergens effectively, which is great for allergy sufferers. Its anti-allergen complete seal technology works with the HEPA filter to keep dust contained inside the vacuum, supporting a cleaner home environment. Suction power is strong enough to deep-clean carpets while also being gentle on bare floors, thanks to a brush roll shutoff feature that lets you switch cleaning modes easily.

The vacuum is moderately lightweight at 12.5 pounds, making it easier to carry around and maneuver, especially with its swivel steering that helps you reach tight corners and around furniture without hassle. The lift-away pod is a handy feature for cleaning stairs and above-floor surfaces, adding versatility. Dust capacity is 1.1 quarts, which is average and will require emptying fairly regularly in larger homes. As a corded model, it provides consistent power without the need to worry about battery life. Included tools like a wide upholstery tool and crevice tool are helpful for pet hair and hard-to-reach spots.

Although specific noise levels are not detailed, Shark vacuums typically run at a moderate volume. Assembly is required but straightforward. Some users might find it a bit bulky compared to stick vacuums, but for heavy-duty carpet and bare floor cleaning, this model balances power and convenience effectively. The 5-year limited warranty adds peace of mind. This vacuum fits well for those wanting a reliable model that tackles allergens and pet hair effectively without complex technology.

Rating
9.4
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Brush Roll Features

Most important from
119265 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum delivers surprisingly strong suction that extracts more dirt from carpets in minutes than older, heavier models managed over years.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its lightweight design and ergonomic handle make it nimble and easy to maneuver, especially when cleaning stairs or above-floor surfaces using the lift-away feature.
Brush Roll Features
The brush roll shutoff and swivel steering enable smooth transitions between carpet and bare floors while reaching tight corners effortlessly.
Dust Capacity
The canister is easy to empty and clean, maintaining good suction and freshness with regular washing of filters.
Cord Length
Corded power ensures consistent suction without the worry of battery life, supporting frequent and extended cleaning sessions.
#3

Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust Cup Capacity, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Crevice Tool, Blue, NV360

Rating
9.1
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
HEPA Filtration

Most important from
119265 reviews

Suction Power
Delivers powerful suction that effortlessly picks up pet hair and dirt in a single pass, outperforming several high-end competitor models.
Weight and Maneuverability
The lift-away feature makes cleaning under furniture, on stairs, and upholstery extremely convenient and simple.
HEPA Filtration
The HEPA filtration combined with a sealed system effectively traps allergens, providing noticeable relief for allergy sufferers.
Dust Capacity
Emptying the dust cup is straightforward and the washable filters keep the vacuum smelling fresh with regular maintenance.
Brush Roll Features
The vacuum handles hard floors gently by allowing the brush roll to be turned off, preventing scratches and scattered debris.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a solid choice if you're looking for an upright vacuum with HEPA filtration, especially helpful for allergy sufferers. Its anti-allergen complete seal combined with a HEPA filter traps dust and allergens effectively, keeping your home air cleaner. The vacuum offers powerful suction that works well on both carpets and bare floors, making it versatile for different surfaces. One handy feature is the lift-away pod which lets you detach the main part for easier cleaning under furniture or on stairs and upholstery — a nice bonus for thorough home cleaning.

Maneuverability is a strong point thanks to the swivel steering, which helps you navigate around tight corners and furniture without much effort. The brush roll can be turned off for gentle cleaning on hard floors, so you won’t have to worry about scratching or scattering debris. The dust cup holds 0.9 quarts, which is decent for longer cleaning sessions, though some might prefer a larger capacity to avoid frequent emptying.

Weighing about 16 pounds, it’s not the lightest vacuum out there, so if you have a lot of stairs or prefer something ultra-light, this might feel a bit heavy. Included accessories like the upholstery and crevice tools add value, especially for pet owners and detailed cleaning. Maintenance is straightforward: filters are washable under tap water but need a full day to dry before reuse. This vacuum balances powerful cleaning, allergen control, and versatile use with a few trade-offs like its weight and dust capacity, suiting households needing strong suction and allergy relief without requiring complex operation.

Rating
9.1
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
HEPA Filtration

Most important from
119265 reviews

Suction Power
Delivers powerful suction that effortlessly picks up pet hair and dirt in a single pass, outperforming several high-end competitor models.
Weight and Maneuverability
The lift-away feature makes cleaning under furniture, on stairs, and upholstery extremely convenient and simple.
HEPA Filtration
The HEPA filtration combined with a sealed system effectively traps allergens, providing noticeable relief for allergy sufferers.
Dust Capacity
Emptying the dust cup is straightforward and the washable filters keep the vacuum smelling fresh with regular maintenance.
Brush Roll Features
The vacuum handles hard floors gently by allowing the brush roll to be turned off, preventing scratches and scattered debris.

Buying Guide for the Best Upright Hepa Vacuums

When shopping for an upright HEPA vacuum, the main goal is to pick a machine that makes cleaning your home easier, healthier, and more efficient. Upright vacuums are popular for their easy maneuverability and powerful suction. HEPA refers to a type of filtration that captures tiny particles, making these vacuums great for allergy sufferers. Before you buy, think about your living space, cleaning habits, whether you have pets, and the types of floors in your home. Understanding the key specifications lets you match your choice with your needs, ensuring you get a vacuum that truly fits.
HEPA FiltrationHEPA stands for High Efficiency Particulate Air, a filter standard designed to trap very small particles and allergens like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander. This specification is crucial for anyone concerned with allergies or wanting to improve indoor air quality. Vacuums may offer true HEPA filtration or simply 'HEPA-like' filters, but true HEPA filters are tested to trap 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. If your main concern is allergies or asthma, aim for a vacuum with a certified HEPA filter. If not, less strict filtration may be sufficient for general cleaning.
Suction PowerSuction power describes how well a vacuum can pick up dirt from surfaces. It can be measured in air watts, but many brands use their own scale. High suction is helpful for homes with pets, thick carpets, or if you want deep cleaning. Lower suction may be adequate for hard floors or lighter cleaning needs. When choosing, consider the types of floors and the messes you'll clean; more challenging surfaces or pet hair require stronger suction.
Brush Roll FeaturesThe brush roll is the part that rotates to help lift dirt from carpets. Some vacuum models include adjustable or motorized brush rolls that can be turned off for hard floors or left on for carpets. This versatility is useful if your home has both carpet and hard floors or if you need to prevent scratching delicate surfaces. Consider your flooring: homes with mostly carpet should use a strong brush roll, while those with mainly hard floors should look for a switchable or soft brush roll option.
Weight and ManeuverabilityWeight affects how easy the vacuum is to push, carry, or move around the house, especially up and down stairs. Heavier models often provide more stability and power but can be tiring to use, while lighter models are easier for kids or seniors to operate. If you have a larger home or multiple floors, lighter and more maneuverable vacuums can make cleaning simpler and less physically demanding. Think about what feels comfortable for your regular cleaning routine.
Dust CapacityDust capacity refers to how much dirt and debris the vacuum can hold before you need to empty it. A larger capacity means fewer trips to the trash, which is helpful for bigger homes or if you have pets. Smaller dust containers are more compact but need to be emptied more often. To pick the right size, reflect on how large your space is and how frequently you clean; frequent cleaners or pet owners often prefer larger bins.
Cord LengthCord length affects how far you can move from the power outlet before needing to switch plugs. Longer cords allow for cleaning large areas without interruption, while shorter cords are fine for smaller spaces but may require more frequent plugging and unplugging. If you have spacious rooms or want to clean several areas in one go, a longer cord helps. For apartments or smaller homes, cord length is less of an issue.
Attachments and AccessoriesMany upright HEPA vacuums come with extra tools for specific tasks, like crevice tools, pet hair brushes, or upholstery attachments. These extras help you clean corners, furniture, stairs, or car interiors more thoroughly. Think about the surfaces and areas you want to clean: if you need to vacuum tight spots, furniture, or pet hair, look for models with the right attachments included.
Noise LevelNoise level is how loud the vacuum is during use. Some people are sensitive to loud sounds, or may have pets and young children at home, in which case a quieter vacuum is preferable. Noise is usually measured in decibels, but even if not specified, user reviews and manufacturer claims help gauge this. Assess your household’s tolerance for sound and choose accordingly if peace and quiet are important.

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