Perhaps you’ve just completed a major in-home renovation or perhaps you’ve just moved into a new house. In either case, you’ve found yourself with an in-home flooring you’ve never had before – hardwood floors. While this kind of flooring is undeniably attractive and timeless, it is also slightly more challenging to care for.
By now, you’ve probably already heard some of best practices for caring for a hardwood floor. While moping with the right kind of soap is important, it’s equally important that your hardwood floors be maintained on a day to day basis. While you could do that with a broom and dustpan, you’ll probably find better results if you invest in a hardwood floor vacuum cleaner.
Now, if you’re thinking “can’t my current vacuum do that job?”, you may not be entirely off-base. Some standard vacuum cleaners have settings that allow them to operate safely on a hardwood floor. But many others lack this kind of operational flexibility. As a result, their core components cause harm to your hardwood floor’s surface. Those kinds of scuffs and scratches may never come out, so it’s best to stick with the right tools for this job.
As a result, you’re now in a great position to invest in a hardwood floor vacuum. Not only will this help you accomplish this important job with ease, but it will also allow you to take advantage of several modern innovations in vacuuming technology. Obtaining a hardwood floor vacuum need not break the bank, either. After all, competition in this field has recently driven down average prices.
Even so, there are a wide number of hardwood floor vacuums on the market today. This guide will take you through a variety of the most popular models, including several upright, corded, cordless, handheld, and robotic units. This guide will also help you better understand what makes a hardwood floor vacuum different, as well as the factors you need to consider before buying one.
Table of Contents
Best Vacuums for Hardwood Floors – Comparison
Picture | Product Name | Weight | Voltage | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | Shark Navigator NV356E | Upright | 30 feet power cord | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Dyson Upright Multi | Upright | Corded | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Shark APEX AZ1002 | Upright | Capacity 1.5 quarts | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Bissell PowerEdge 81L2A | Cordless | Cord 20 feet | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Hoover Linx BH50010 | Cordless | Cordless, Auto-height adjustment, Bagless | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Dyson Cyclone V10 | Cordless | Up to 60 minutes run time | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Miele Complete C3 Marin | Corded | Stainless Steel Wand | Check Latest Price |
![]() | MOOSOO D600 | Corded | 23 feet power cord | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Shark Rocket HV302 | Corded | Swivel steering | Check Latest Price |
![]() | iRobot Roomba 675 | Robot | 3 Stage Cleaning System | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Shark IQ | Robot | Cordless | Check Latest Price |
![]() | eufy RoboVac 11S | Robot | AC power adapter | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Shark WV201 | Handheld | Wattage 120 | Check Latest Price |
![]() | BLACK+DECKER dustbuster CHV1410L | Handheld | Cordless | Check Latest Price |
![]() | Homasy HM207A | Handheld | Cordless | Check Latest Price |
What Features and Specifications Make a Good Hardwood Floor Vacuum?
If you’re like me, you hadn’t heard of a “hardwood floor vacuum” until you saw one in action for the first time. Even at that point, I didn’t fully understand what made those units any different than their carpet vacuuming counterparts. In time, though, I learned that there were certain features and specifications that allowed those units to perform so well on the hardwood. These are just a few of those purpose-specific qualities you should look for in any prospective hardwood floor vacuum.
First off, any vacuum you intend to use on a hardwood floor must have a roller or beater brush that can be turned off. This is absolutely critical because both rollers and beater brushes cause immense amounts of abrasion damage to a hardwood floor’s surface over time. Even in a practical sense, these brushes tend to scatter material on smooth wood floors, rather than collecting them up. So, if a model you are interested has these, be sure that you can turn them off when working on a hardwood floor.
Next, you need to check any potential hardwood floor vacuum’s height and suction settings. Height, in this context, refers to the distance of the vacuum’s head from the floor (though it may be adjustable). Ideally, a hardwood floor vacuum’s head should be as close to the ground as possible to maximize suction within that space.
As for suction, this should be minimized through its own settings whenever possible. Because of their uniform, flat surface, hardwood floors make it harder to pull dirt and debris towards the vacuum head. Any vacuum that allows you to decrease this rate of suction will probably be able to handle most hardwood floor messes in a single pass.
Also, one feature that is often overlooked when it comes to hardwood floor vacuums are their wheels. Because these will come into increased contact with the hardwood flooring as you work, it is essential that they treat that flooring’s surface kindly. Any wheels that are made of a soft rubber material should do the job nicely. However, any unit that doesn’t even require wheels (such as a handheld or stick vacuum) is even better due to their minimized rate of contact with the floor in question.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Hardwood Floor Vacuum
At first glance, you may not think you need a hardwood floor vacuum for your home. But if you care about the long-term appearance and quality of your hardwood floor, you should give it a serious consideration. In addition, you should take the following factors into consideration before finalizing your vacuum purchase. These factors can help you narrow your shortlist of models down to units that best fit your needs and your budget:
Common Debris
You probably haven’t paid much mind to the kind of materials that end up on your hardwood floors before. For example, if you have pets, it is reasonable to assume that your furry friends will leave behind hair and dander on a regular basis. Similarly, if your hardwood floors are in or near your kitchen, you might expect food particles to end up there before long.
By thinking about these types of common debris, you’ll be able to choose a unit that is capable of drawing in all of those materials with as little effort as possible. To that end, if you only need to regularly vacuum your hardwood floors to remove dirt and dust, a lower-powered vacuum may serve you well. Meanwhile, homeowners with pets or a high amount of traffic on their hardwood floors may consider a high-end unit with more suction power or a larger dust cup.
Size of Hardwood Floor Space
When comparing hardwood floor vacuums, it only makes sense to account for how much hardwood floor you actually have to clean in your house. Moreover, you may be able to select a larger or smaller unit based upon how much hardwood flooring you’ll regularly need to attend to. If your home only has a few hardwood floors, most stick and handheld units can help keep them in tidy order. Meanwhile, larger hardwood floor areas can best be covered by a wider unit such as an upright or canister vacuum.
Keep in mind, though, that there’s no need to go overboard here. If you only had a small lawn, you wouldn’t buy a riding lawnmower, after all. In the same vein, you should only get a hardwood vacuum that is sized (and likely priced) in conjunction with how much flooring it will actually be used to cover.
Storage Space
If you live in an apartment or a condo, storage space may be at a premium. As such, it’s important to factor this in when purchasing a hardwood floor vacuum. Fortunately, there are lots of options in the vacuum market when it comes to space-saving units. Stick and handheld vacuums are an obvious option, as are robot vacuums. However, even some upright models are now built to collapse for simplified storage.
Willingness to Vacuum
Be real with yourself and ask, “how often am I going to realistically use this vacuum?” This kind of honesty up front can help save you a lot of money, believe it or not. Many folks choose the fanciest hardwood floor vacuum they can find because they believe that they’ll use it constantly. But often, these units are a bigger hassle then they appear on the surface. In turn, that person becomes less willing to use their new vacuum.
There are lots of reasons why you might be unwilling to vacuum. It’s not a fun task, after all, but it must be done to protect your hardwood floors. While pondering the question above, you may find that you don’t like dealing with your current vacuum’s cord. If so, there are lots of great cordless units on the market today. Some folks may even find that they can’t make a habit of vacuuming. In that case, a robot vacuum may be just the thing you need.
Price
As you might expect, you should come into the hardwood floor vacuum buying process with a budget in mind. This will help you narrow down your short list of prospective models in no time at all based upon one easy-to-compare figure. Not only that, but price comparison shopping can help ensure that you are getting a good deal on your chosen unit. For the best results on this front, be sure to comparison shop between the manufacturer’s website and your favorite online retailer.
Also, keep in mind that pricing of vacuums is usually commensurate with their size and capabilities. As such, larger and strong vacuums tend to run the highest price while lighter, more modest models tend to be more budget-friendly. Other factors, such as the inclusion of accessories or a warranty, may also cause a certain model’s price to be higher than expected.
Top Hardwood Floor Vacuums on Today’s Market
If you’ve already spent a bunch of time combing the internet for the best vacuum for a hardwood floor, then you’ve come to the right place. I’ve collected top-tier models from across the spectrum into one place so that you can comparison shop with ease. Each of the following reviews should make it easy to contrast these popular models on important factors such as their price and features, too.
Also, in order to make it even easier to find the hardwood floor vacuum that’s right for you, these reviews have been organized by vacuum type. So, you won’t need to search through endless upright vacuum listings if what you really want is a handheld or robot vacuum. In the same vein, you’ll find corded and cordless models clearly separated in this collection to reduce your mid-shopping confusion.
Upright Vacuums for Hardwood Floors
First up among the upright hardwood floor vacuums is the Shark Navigator Professional NV356E, which has remained a favorite among large and mid-sized homeowners. That’s likely because this unit provides a lot of versatility that allows it to be used in more places than just on your hardwood floors. In fact, this unit can effectively go anywhere your hardwood floors are found thanks to its Lift-Away mode. The whole unit is only about 13 lbs., too, so it isn’t tough to carry it around while vacuuming every corner of your home.
Chances are, you won’t even need to stop once while using the Shark Navigator Professional NV356E to clean your whole home. That’s because it features a 2.2 liter dust cup that can hold plenty of dust, debris, and pet hair. Meanwhile, this model also holds the potential for professional-grade hardwood floor care. By paying just a little on top of this model’s approximately $200 price, you can also get the Hard Floor Hero attachment that maximizes this unit’s suction capacity without the use of any harsh roller brushes.
What We Like:
- Can be used in Lift-Away mode for added portability
- Modest weight allows for solid maneuverability
- Sizable dust cup allows for long vacuum sessions
What We Didn’t Like:
- Pricey, especially after the cost of an add-on
2.Dyson Upright Multi Floor 2
You’ve likely seen an ad or two for Dyson’s popular vacuums. But models like the Dyson Upright Multi Floor 2 are more than just hype, especially when it comes to cleaning your hardwood floors. This unit, for example, utilizes radial root cyclone technology at its core, thus allowing it to pick up even the most microscopic debris on your smooth floors. You won’t even need to touch any dials to adjust this unit’s suction rate, either, because of its self-adjusting cleaner head.
As with all Dyson vacuums, the Dyson Upright Multi Floor 2 is master of maneuverability. Its use of this brand’s proprietary ball technology allows it to roll along smoothly and turn on a dime – all without leaving any scuffs or scratches on your hardwood floors. You can also operate the Dyson Upright Multi Floor 2 without ever needing to get your hands dirty. All you need to do is push a single button and this unit releases all of its captured dirt into your receptacle.
What We Like:
- Core technology maximizes suction and airflow
- Self-adjusting cleaner head works well on hardwood floors
- Patented ball technology allows for smooth movements and turns
What We Didn’t Like:
- Despite name, does not work well on carpet
3. Shark APEX AZ1002
As its name suggests, the Shark APEX AZ1002 really is at the pinnacle of upright vacuuming experiences in more ways than one. Given that this is a top-of-the-line hardwood vacuum, it shouldn’t surprise you that its price tag is well over $300. But you may well be surprised at how many great features that price provides you. This model’s Zero-M brush roll is only the tip of the iceberg, though its ability to actively prevent hair wrapping will be extremely useful for pet owners.
As with any good hardwood floor vacuum, the Shark APEX AZ1002’s brush roller can be easily disengaged. Even with that component shut off, this model’s DuoClean technology still has a role to play. To be specific, it provides a special gentle brush roll that shines up a hardwood floor’s surface as it passes over. This results in a nice, reflective surface that looks like you just mopped and squeegeed.
What We Like:
- Soft rollers shine the floor while vacuuming
- Large dust cup
- Lift-Away mode ideal for vacuuming hard-to-reach surfaces
What We Didn’t Like:
- Anti-tangle brush head may run into issues with long pet hair
Cordless Vacuums for Hardwood Floors
1. Bissell PowerEdge 81L2A
The Bissell PowerEdge 81L2A is an all-around favorite in the cordless hardwood floor vacuum market and that’s not just because of its handsome price tag of about $58. Rather, this model’s features make it an attractive option to more than just bargain hunters. One prime example is this model’s V-shaped head, which effectively sweeps debris towards the center where it can be picked up and deposited into the internal dust cup. This unique head shape also allows this unit to navigate around stationary obstacles, making it that much easier to vacuum on your own.
Some of the Bissell PowerEdge 81L2A’s best features are hidden out of view, however. For example, attached to the bottom side of the aforementioned vacuum head, you’ll find a compact rubber squeegee system. These rubber blades effectively capture pet hair and dirt on smooth flooring surfaces, making it ideal for use on a hardwood floor. Also, this model’s swivel steering system allows it to move about effortlessly, regardless of what kind of flooring you’re working on.
What We Like:
- Unique V-shaped head traps hair and dust
- Built-in squeegees push material towards suction point
- Affordably priced and very lightweight
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not built to last for more than a few years
2. Hoover Linx BH50010
The Hoover Linx BH50010 has also remained a popular pick among cordless vacuums, not least because of its general portability. At only 10 lbs., this model requires very little effort to push about or store away after the job is complete. Along the same lines, storing this vacuum away won’t take up too much premium space in your closet or under your bed. That’s because it has an exceptionally thin form factor that is as practical as it is stylish.
You might expect a slender beast like the Hoover Linx BH50010 to be short on special features. But if you assumed that, you’d be fully surprised to learn that this unit incorporates Hoover’s WindTunnel technology. As a result, the several suction channels emanating from the vacuum head are able to pick up all manner of debris from both hard and soft floors. You’ll also have the controls over this unit right at your fingertips due to this model’s newly-reengineered user control system.
What We Like:
- Slim form factor is ideal for storage in an apartment
- Enhanced core technology creates several suction channels
- New control system is very user-friendly
What We Didn’t Like:
- Charger is known to short circuit suddenly
3. Dyson Cyclone V10
Do you ever wish you had a magic wand that could clean your hardwood floors in a flash? The Dyson Cyclone V10 might just be what you’re looking for with regards to more than just its appearance. In fact, this mode’s 3 power modes allow you to safely clean your hardwood floors before switching over to carpet vacuuming without skipping a beat. Along the way, you’ll have Dyson’s strongest and most compact motor yet, the V10, maintaining this unit’s numerous internal cyclonic suction channels.
In terms of battery power, the Dyson Cyclone V10 doesn’t take long to recharge from empty. At most, you’ll have to leave this unit on the dock for 3 hours before getting a full hour of effective vacuuming out of it. Even in this unit’s most powerful torque-driven cleaner mode, you’ll get a full 20 minutes of uninterrupted vacuuming from the Dyson Cyclone V10. That kind of longevity is right on par with this model’s $400 approximate price tag.
What We Like:
- New and improved motor never wears down
- 3 operational modes, 1 of which is ideal for hardwood floors
- Balanced form factor is ideal for overhead use
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fairly expensive for a stick vacuum
Corded Vacuums for Hardwood Floors
1. Miele Complete C3 Marin
It’s not often that you see a canister-style vacuum in a collection like this. But simply put, the Miele Complete C3 Marin is too good to pass up. That’s not owing to its hefty price tag though, which currently sits at over $1,000. But if you can afford it, the Miele Complete C3 Marin will treat you to a professional-grade vacuuming experience, starting with its Parquet Twister body structure. This allows the unit to achieve a massive 36-foot operating radius, in conjunction with its extra-long power cord.
The Miele Complete C3 Marin’s 6 differentiated speed settings also make it easy to find an ideal level of suction when working on your hardwood floors. The floating head on this unit’s telescopic, stainless steel wand also allows you to access every nook and cranny without putting your wood floor’s surface at risk. You can even count on this vacuum to keep you breathing easy with its AirClean filtration system, which captures over 99.9% of particles that cause lung irritation.
What We Like:
- Pro-grade vacuuming capabilities
- Super-wide 36 foot operating radius
- Different speed settings, including one for hardwood floors
- Filtration system prevents dust blowback
What We Didn’t Like:
- Very, very expensive
2. MOOSOO D600
Many shoppers aren’t familiar with the MOOSOO brand name. But once they catch sight of their D600 model, they might just remember the name going forward. This model’s price tag is memorable, too, especially to shoppers on a budget. At just around $50, this vacuum’s 2.8 lbs. frame punches well above its weight class. That’s especially true of its overall length, which can be extended to cover up to 30 feet away from the user.
The MOOSOO D600’s 500 watt motor is nothing to cough at either because it can last through hundreds of uses without losing any of its torque or reliability. When fully utilized in conjunction with this model’s adjustable brush head, you’ll really begin to see what this unit can do for your hardwood floors. To be precise, this brush head can gently loosen stuck on debris from said hard surface, making all that much easier for the vacuum proper to suck it all up in a single pass.
What We Like:
- Affordably priced
- Lightweight and provides a solid cleaning radius
- Adjustable brush head can clean hardwood floors in a single pass
What We Didn’t Like:
- Handle is not designed for left-handed people
3. Shark Rocket HV302
Among corded vacuum cleaners, the Shark Rocket HV302 has been a go-to pick for many years. That’s likely because this unit is user-friendly beyond belief. This starts with this unit’s ergonomic handle, which makes holding its 8 lbs. frame a no-sweat task. From there, this model’s swivel steering system makes it easy to pivot around obstacles, including those on a hardwood floor. Even storing the Shark Rocket HV302 is an easy proposition thanks to its dual storage options.
After finishing up your hardwood floors, you’ll be surprised to learn that the Shark Rocket HV302 is also a master in the garage. Specifically, the numerous accessories that come with this unit make it super easy to vacuum out your car. To do that, just slip on this model’s 12 inch crevasse tool and go to town on all of your vehicle’s nooks and crannies. Then, once you’ve taken care of the big debris, you can get your car’s carpets and seats looking like new using the Shark Rocket HV302’s specialized car detailing accessories.
What We Like:
- Lightweight frame is easy to maneuver vertically and horizontally
- Dual storage options ideal for closets
- Numerous accessories are ideal for use in cars and trucks
What We Didn’t Like:
- Subpar customer service
Robot Vacuums for Hardwood Floors
1. iRobot Roomba 675
There’s a reason why the Roomba name has become synonymous with robotic vacuum cleaners. They helped define the market several years back and continue to do so today, as seen in the iRobot Roomba 675. This affordable (for a robot vacuum) model comes standard with a set of multi-surface brushes, for example. This allows the unit to effectively brush all kinds of debris towards its bottom-mounted vacuum head. Better yet, this unit’s Auto Adjust cleaning head allows it to maintain an ideal level of suction when moving onto a hardwood floor.
This model also comes standard with a sensitive set of patented Dirt Detect sensors. As a result, the iRobot Roomba 675 can identify patches of debris on its own and immediately swoop in to sweep them up. It can even make that happen in corners thanks to this model’s Edge Sweeping brush, which can work into 27 degree angled spots with ease. All of this can be done over the course of a 90 minute run, which is the maximum amount this robotic assistant can run on a single charge.
What We Like:
- Affordable as an entry-level robot vacuum
- Multi-surface brushes are gentle on hardwood
- Edge Sweeping brush can fit into tight corners
What We Didn’t Like:
- Can become “aimless” on some dark-colored floors
2. Shark IQ
The Shark IQ has also picked up a devoted following in recent years, likely because it was initially marketed as an alternative to other luxury robot vacuum brands. While its approximately $480 price tag isn’t all that cheap, this model’s feature arsenal more than makes up for its cost. For example, this unit utilizes a navigation system called Total Home Mapping. This allows it to know where it has been, where it is going, and when it is time to go back to its base to recharge or empty its dust cup.
Did I mention that the Shark IQ can empty out its own dust cup? As a matter of fact, this unit can go almost an entire week without user interaction due to the large capacity of its base’s collection chamber. To do this, you can pre-program a schedule for your Shark IQ through your favorite smart assistant, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home. From there, this robot vacuum starts in on its task and self-regulates its battery usage until the task is complete.
What We Like:
- Mapping system allows it to learn each room’s layout
- Empties its own dust cup into base
- Can be scheduled through app or smart assistant
What We Didn’t Like:
- Fairly large price tag
3. eufy RoboVac 11S
The eufy RoboVac 11S has been receiving rave reviews online and I can clearly see why. Priced at only $230, it’s a real bargain in a robot vacuum market that continues to heat up. But even with its price aside, the eufy RoboVac 11S features a number of interesting improvements that should have its competitors taking note. One such advancement is its BoostIQ technology, which automatically increases the unit’s suction power upon finding debris it cannot draw in.
The eufy RoboVac 11S is also the champion of the long vacuuming session. That’s because this model is able to run for up to 100 consecutive minutes on a hardwood floor. As a result, you’ll likely only ever need to interrupt this unit’s work to empty its slightly larger-than-average 0.6 liter dust cup. This unit is even a master of self-preservation thanks to its built-in infra-red sensors. They can detect when an obstacle is nearby or if a sudden drop is imminent.
What We Like:
- Automatically increases suction when detecting large debris volumes
- Can run for 100 minutes on a single charge
- Infra-red sensors can detect drop offs
What We Didn’t Like:
- Does not clean low pile carpet well
Handheld Vacuums for Hardwood Floors
1. Shark WV201
As far as handheld vacuums go, the Shark WV201 might initially look like the odd man out because of its appearance. But in many ways, it is actually one of the most stylish and modern units in its class. Its slim frame is more than just an appearance, too; in fact, this model weighs only 1.4 lbs. in total. As a result, its handle is extremely well balanced, which in turn allows you to maneuver this unit across your hardwood floors with ease.
The Shark WV201’s lithium-ion battery is also pretty special. To be specific, it can fully recharge in just 2.5 hours. After that, you’ll have a full 40 minutes to fill this model’s 0.08 quart dust cup. Once it comes time to empty that dust cup, you’ll be able to do so in a single, sanitary motion. Simply tap this unit’s one-touch emptying button and you’ll be ready to start in on another round of vacuuming.
What We Like:
- Balanced form factor reduces strain on hands and wrist
- Recharges fully in 2.5 hours
- One-touch dust cup emptying
What We Didn’t Like:
- Exterior is not very sturdy
2. BLACK+DECKER dustbuster CHV1410L
The Dustbuster name was one of the originators of the handheld vacuum class. Still today, they’ve managed to put out a quality product for hardwood floor owners, as seen in the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster CHV1410L. This unit uses 50% less energy than its previous version, but still reaches its 16-volt maximum charge in a fraction of the time. To that end, this model’s lithium-ion battery is guaranteed to remain stable for its first 18 months of use. Otherwise, you can file a claim with this unit’s 2-year warranty, which is included at no extra cost.
In terms of actual operation, the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster CHV1410L measures up to its competition well. Its 2.6 lbs. frame is not difficult to carry about at all, even if you have to reach into some corners to get your hardwood floors clean. You likely won’t need to overexert yourself to reach these crevasses, though. That’s because this model comes standard with a rotating slim nozzle that can easily trap everything from dirt and sand to dust and pet hair.
What We Like:
- Rotating slim nozzle ideal for reaching tight spaces
- More energy efficient than previous models
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
What We Didn’t Like:
- Battery only lasts for 2-3 years
3. Homasy HM207A
Finally, we come to the Homasy HM207A, which is another handheld vacuum cleaner that might have flown under your radar. You should really give it a second look, though, because this unit is a solid option that makes the most of its core specifications. This includes a 100 watt motor, which is able to produce a whopping 8 KPA of suction when fully engaged. That’s more than enough to pick up even the tiniest specks of dust and dander off of your hardwood floors.
Also, as debris is drawn into this unit, it passes through 3 different stages of filtration. This ensures that every particle remains trapped within the unit, thus preventing blowback that can irritate your lungs. From those filters, any remaining debris passes into this unit’s 600 ml debris cup. You’ll have over 30 minutes of productive vacuuming time with the Homasy HM207A as well before it needs a quick 3 hour recharge on the included charging dock.
What We Like:
- 100 watt motor produces 8 KPA of suction
- 3-stage filtration prevents blowback
- 600 ml debris cup is larger than average for a handheld unit
What We Didn’t Like:
- Battery only powers unit for 30 minutes at a time
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Can any vacuum clean a hardwood floor?
Yes, but only technically. In theory, any type of vacuum cleaner could remove dirt, dust, and debris from your hardwood floors. Even a shop vac could do the job in a pinch. But the truth of the matter is that only some types of vacuums can accomplish this task while properly treating your hardwood floors with care. That’s why it is important to look for a vacuum model with certain “hardwood floor care” features, even if the model is not explicitly listed as being for hardwood floor vacuuming exclusively.
For example, any vacuum unit you intend to use on a hardwood floor should minimize harsh contact from the unit itself. On that front, an upright unit with rubber wheels will be your best option. Meanwhile, that same unit should have an option to turn off its main brush rolls. These can scruff up your hardwood floor’s surface, so there must be an option to turn them off while working on your hardwood floors.
Do hardwood floor vacuums also work on carpet?
For the most part, yes. Hardwood floor vacuums can usually do a modest job on carpets, particularly when it comes to removing surface dirt and debris. However, any dust that is ground in to that carpet will likely be difficult to access with a hardwood floor vacuum due to their lack of penetrating rollers or brushes. Some hardwood floor vacuums will allow you to engage these types of brushes on demand, though, thus adding to their multi-surface practicality.
Why can’t I use any carpet vacuum on my hardwood floors?
If your current vacuum was designed to clean carpets, then chances are that it is not suitable to use on a hardwood floor. This starts as a matter of practicality. That’s because most carpet vacuums use air-tight, high-powered suction to draw debris from deep within a carpet’s structure. This doesn’t play well on hardwood floors, where that volume of suction usually causes surface level debris to skitter away from the vacuum head.
At the same time, though, a carpet vacuum runs the risk of permanently damaging your hardwood floors (over time, that is). To be specific, the rotating rollers in these units can seriously scuff up your hardwood’s finish. The same can be said of the beater bars in these units, which work wonders on carpets and due noticeable damage to hardwood floors. Unless these features can be turned off, that vacuum is not an ideal candidate for use on a hardwood floor.
How often should I vacuum a hardwood floor?
If you have the time, then you should try to vacuum your hardwood floors at least once a week. This prevents excessive amounts of dirt and debris built up, which can filter into the cracks of your hardwood flooring over time if it is not properly disposed of. Keeping this kind of weekly ritual can also make vacuuming more routine, which will in turn help preserve the long-term quality of your hardwood floors.
If you have allergies, however, you may err on the side of caution when it comes to vacuuming regularly in this manner. If your allergies are set off when vacuuming, you should pick out a unit that includes built-in HEPA filters to help you breathe easier. Even if your allergies are bothersome to that extent, you should still try to remove build ups of irritants as often as possible. Pet owners in particular should get in the habit of cleaning up dander and hair every 3-4 days.
The Bottom Line
Now that you’ve finished this guide, you should know that there is a distinct difference between a standard vacuum and a hardwood floor vacuum. More importantly, you should know all about how to identify one of these purpose-made units based simply upon what features they do or do not include. If you want to save yourself some time, though, you can head to my advice and try out any of the top-tier models reviewed above.
Don’t wait to purchase a hardwood vacuum, though! You may already be damaging your hardwood floors with your standard vacuum cleaner. To ensure that your hardwood floors remain in peak condition day in and day out, make a hardwood floor vacuum a priority investment when it comes time to clean your home.