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10 Best Vacuum Cleaners For Stairs 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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
9.9
Chosen by1,494
Weight
Portability
Suction Power

Most important from
131918 reviews

Weight
The vacuum is lightweight at 12.5 pounds, making it easier to carry up and down stairs.
Portability
Although the vacuum is corded, its powerful performance and ease of use make up for the lack of portability.
Suction Power
The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum offers amazing suction power, outperforming other brands like Bissell and Hoover.
Attachments and Accessories
The lift-away functionality and useful attachments, including a crevice tool and upholstery tool, make it versatile for cleaning stairs, furniture, and tight spaces.
Corded vs. Cordless
Although the vacuum is corded, its powerful performance and ease of use make up for the lack of portability.
Filtration System
The anti-allergen complete seal technology and HEPA filtration system are highly effective, particularly for those with allergies.
Ease of Maintenance
Emptying the dustbin might be more involved compared to other brands, but it ensures a better seal and less dust leakage.

The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is designed with stairs in mind, featuring several attributes that make it well-suited for this purpose. At 12.5 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and incorporates lift-away functionality, allowing you to detach the pod for easy above-floor cleaning on stairs and furniture.

Its powerful suction ensures thorough cleaning on both carpets and bare floors, while the brushroll shutoff feature provides versatility in switching between different surfaces. The swivel steering further enhances maneuverability, making it easier to navigate tight spaces and corners, which is particularly useful when cleaning stairs. This vacuum comes with useful attachments, including a wide upholstery tool and a crevice tool, which help in tackling pet hair and reaching narrow areas and corners efficiently.

The anti-allergen complete seal technology combined with HEPA filtration effectively traps dust and allergens, promoting cleaner air quality. However, as a corded vacuum, it may limit portability compared to cordless models, especially when moving between floors. Maintenance is relatively straightforward with washable filters, though some assembly is required. The product is backed by a five-year limited warranty, reflecting a commitment to durability. This vacuum is ideal for users who need a powerful, versatile cleaner for stairs, carpets, and bare floors, and who might also have pets.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,494
Weight
Portability
Suction Power

Most important from
131918 reviews

Weight
The vacuum is lightweight at 12.5 pounds, making it easier to carry up and down stairs.
Portability
Although the vacuum is corded, its powerful performance and ease of use make up for the lack of portability.
Suction Power
The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum offers amazing suction power, outperforming other brands like Bissell and Hoover.
Attachments and Accessories
The lift-away functionality and useful attachments, including a crevice tool and upholstery tool, make it versatile for cleaning stairs, furniture, and tight spaces.
Corded vs. Cordless
Although the vacuum is corded, its powerful performance and ease of use make up for the lack of portability.
Filtration System
The anti-allergen complete seal technology and HEPA filtration system are highly effective, particularly for those with allergies.
Ease of Maintenance
Emptying the dustbin might be more involved compared to other brands, but it ensures a better seal and less dust leakage.
#2

Bissell Cleanview XR Pet 300W Cordless Vacuum with Removable Battery, 3797V

Rating
9.8
Weight
Portability
Suction Power

Most important from
108455 reviews

Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, especially for those with mobility issues.
Portability
Perfect for RV use, fits into tiny corners and goes flat under sofas. Lightweight and easy to store.
Suction Power
Excellent suction power for its size, surprisingly effective on wood floors and low pile rugs.
Attachments and Accessories
Bagless functionality is convenient, and the detachable features are a great bonus.
Corded vs. Cordless
Despite being corded, it's a powerful, inexpensive option that works well on bare floors and low pile rugs.
Ease of Maintenance
Easy to clean and maintain, with a decent-sized dirt cup and washable filter.

The Bissell Cleanview XR Pet 300W Cordless Vacuum is a lightweight (5.9 pounds) and highly portable option, making it ideal for cleaning stairs. Its cordless design with a runtime of up to 40 minutes provides the flexibility to move around without being tethered to an outlet, which is particularly useful for reaching stairs and other cumbersome areas. The vacuum features a powerful motor, claimed to be 60% stronger than the Shark IX141, ensuring strong suction power for effective cleaning.

The included deep cleaning fur brush is especially useful for pet owners, as it efficiently picks up pet hair from various surfaces including upholstery and stairs. The additional attachments like the dusting brush and crevice tool enhance its versatility for cleaning tight spaces and different kinds of surfaces. The removable 24V MAX lithium-ion battery is another plus, as it allows for easy replacement and extended usage. The foam filtration system helps in capturing dust and allergens, promoting cleaner air.

Maintenance is reasonably straightforward with the removable battery and easily accessible filters. However, the dustbin capacity is relatively small at 0.3 liters, which may require frequent emptying during extended cleaning sessions. The vacuum's form factor as a stick vacuum might be less stable when stored upright, but the included wall mount can help mitigate this issue. This vacuum is well-suited for homes with stairs and pets, offering a mix of power, portability, and convenience.

Rating
9.8
Weight
Portability
Suction Power

Most important from
108455 reviews

Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, especially for those with mobility issues.
Portability
Perfect for RV use, fits into tiny corners and goes flat under sofas. Lightweight and easy to store.
Suction Power
Excellent suction power for its size, surprisingly effective on wood floors and low pile rugs.
Attachments and Accessories
Bagless functionality is convenient, and the detachable features are a great bonus.
Corded vs. Cordless
Despite being corded, it's a powerful, inexpensive option that works well on bare floors and low pile rugs.
Ease of Maintenance
Easy to clean and maintain, with a decent-sized dirt cup and washable filter.

Buying Guide for the Best Vacuum Cleaners For Stairs

Choosing the right vacuum cleaner for stairs can make a significant difference in how easy and effective your cleaning routine is. Stairs can be tricky to clean due to their shape and the need to maneuver around corners and edges. When selecting a vacuum cleaner for stairs, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get a model that fits your needs and makes the task as effortless as possible.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor when choosing a vacuum cleaner for stairs because you will need to carry it up and down. A lightweight vacuum cleaner is easier to handle and reduces the risk of strain or injury. Generally, vacuums under 10 pounds are considered lightweight and are ideal for stairs. If you have physical limitations or prefer a more comfortable cleaning experience, opt for a model on the lighter side.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the vacuum cleaner around. For stairs, a portable vacuum with a compact design and a comfortable handle is essential. Look for models that are easy to carry and maneuver, especially those with ergonomic handles or straps. If you have multiple floors or a large staircase, a highly portable vacuum will make the task much more manageable.
Suction PowerSuction power determines how effectively the vacuum cleaner can pick up dirt, dust, and debris. For stairs, strong suction is important to ensure a thorough clean, especially in the corners and edges where dirt tends to accumulate. Suction power is often measured in watts or air watts. Higher values indicate stronger suction, but for stairs, a balance between power and ease of use is key. Choose a vacuum with sufficient suction to handle your specific needs, whether it's pet hair, fine dust, or larger debris.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can greatly enhance the versatility and effectiveness of a vacuum cleaner for stairs. Common useful attachments include crevice tools, which help clean tight spaces, and brush tools, which are great for removing pet hair and dust from carpeted stairs. Consider what types of debris you typically encounter and choose a vacuum with the appropriate attachments to address those needs. Having the right tools can make cleaning stairs much easier and more efficient.
Corded vs. CordlessThe choice between a corded and cordless vacuum cleaner depends on your preference for convenience and power. Cordless vacuums offer greater mobility and ease of use, as you don't have to worry about plugging and unplugging the cord as you move up and down the stairs. However, they rely on battery life, which can limit usage time. Corded vacuums, on the other hand, provide consistent power without the need to recharge but can be less convenient due to the cord. Consider your cleaning habits and choose the type that best fits your lifestyle.
Filtration SystemThe filtration system in a vacuum cleaner is important for maintaining air quality and trapping allergens. HEPA filters are highly effective at capturing small particles, including dust mites, pollen, and pet dander, making them ideal for households with allergy sufferers. If air quality is a concern, look for a vacuum with a high-quality filtration system. For general use, a standard filter may suffice, but for those with allergies or respiratory issues, a HEPA filter is recommended.
Ease of MaintenanceEase of maintenance refers to how simple it is to clean and maintain the vacuum cleaner. Models with washable filters, easy-to-empty dustbins, and accessible brush rolls can save you time and effort. Consider how often you will need to perform maintenance tasks and choose a vacuum that offers convenient features to make this process straightforward. A vacuum that is easy to maintain will ensure it remains effective and lasts longer.

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