Cordless vacuums increase efficiency and reduce cleaning time by up to 50% as compared to manual cleaning. Lightweight and easy to use, they have become more popular than the bulky, traditional vacuum models in recent years. But since most models come with a hefty price tag, it’s natural to wonder, “Is the investment even worth it?”
In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know regarding cordless vacuums. We’ll also discuss different features and factors you must consider when buying the best cordless home vacuum that fits your needs.
Key Features to Look for in a Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Some of the most important factors that must be considered for buying a cordless vacuum cleaner include:
Suction Power
Suction power depends on two things: water lift and airflow.
- Water Lift (suction strength): This should be at least 15–20 kPa or 1500–2000 mmH2O for effective deep cleaning.
- Airflow (dust pickup): Look for 30–40 l/s or around 100–150 m³/h for strong dust and debris removal.
Battery Life
Cordless vacuums typically run from 30 to 60 minutes on a single full charge. A high suction power or motorised tools can make the battery run out faster. For bigger homes, it’s better to choose a vacuum with a longer battery life or one with a spare battery.
Charging Time
Cordless vacuums can take anywhere from 3 to 5 hours to charge. Some models can even take up to 6 hours to charge, while premium models with advanced lithium-ion batteries may take 2.5 to 3 hours to provide enough juice for a full cleaning session.
For everyday use, it’s best to choose a vacuum that charges in less than 3 hours and gives at least 30 to 60 minutes of cleaning time.
Dustbin Capacity
When it comes to cordless vacuums, 1 litre is the maximum dustbin capacity, whereas some models can only hold 0.3 litres. Though all cordless vacuums require regular emptying, it’s best to opt for the model with the maximum capacity, especially if you have a large home.
Weight
Avoid models that weigh more than 3kg, as heavier vacuums can quickly get tiring to use. For ease of use, the cordless vacuum should preferably weigh 1.5 kg to 2.8 kg.
How to Choose the Best Cordless Vacuum for Your Home
When selecting a cordless vacuum for home, you need to take into account a number of factors, which include:
Size of your Home
For larger homes, choose a cordless vacuum with a battery life ranging from at least 40 to 60 minutes and a high suction power ranging from 20 to 25 kPa.
On the other hand, a lightweight cordless vacuum with a 20–30 minute battery life and suction power of around 10 to 15 kPa should suffice for smaller homes.
Floor Types
Do you need to vacuum carpets or hardwood?
Carpets: For thorough dirt removal, look for a cordless vacuum with a powerful suction of at least 20 kPa. When paired with a motorized brush, you can easily get any debris, hair, or dirt off the carpets.
Hard floors: Suction power of around 10–15 kPa is usually enough for hard floors. Look for vacuums with soft roller heads, which are gentle on surfaces like tile, laminate, or hardwood and great at picking up fine dust without scratching.
Cleaning Needs
Consider how frequently and how thoroughly you clean. You should get a quick-charge, easy-to-empty model if you vacuum every day. For weekly deep cleans, a high-powered vacuum with features like an LED light and smart sensors would be a better option.
Pet Owners
Some cordless vacuum models come with HEPA filters that can trap allergens like dander and fine dust. These can be very useful if you have pets at home. Moreover, look for a model that comes with special accessories like a tangle-free brush roll that helps keep pet hair from getting stuck in the roller.
Pros and Cons of a Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Before you buy, it’s good to know the pros and cons of cordless vacuum cleaners to see if they fit your needs.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- No need to untangle cords
- Quick for daily cleaning
- Great for removing debris, pet hair, and dander
Cons
- Needs frequent emptying on big jobs.
How to Maintain and Care for a Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
To keep your cordless vacuum functioning properly, it’s essential to clean and maintain it regularly. Here’s how to do it:
Empty the Dustbin Regularly
Not only does dust and debris accumulation in the dustbin cause hygiene problems, but it also reduces the vacuum’s suction power. For the best results, make sure that you clean the dustbin regularly. This is especially important if you have pets or are sensitive to allergens.
Clean the Filters
Dust and debris can become caught in the filter, clogging the suction airway and reducing the vacuum's performance over time. To avoid this, make sure to clean or change your filters on a regular basis.
Charge it Correctly
Leaving your cordless vacuum on charge all the time can damage its battery. If your vacuum has a replaceable battery, try to charge it before it runs entirely empty; about 20-30% is optimal. Also, keep the vacuum and batteries in a cold, dry place.
Bonus: The Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaner from eufy
eufy Robot Vacuum E20 is ideal for those who want an easy-to-use model that can do it all. With 30,000 Pa suction power and a quick 2.5-hour charge time, this cordless vacuum charges 40% faster than most models, delivering powerful performance in less time. Its AeroTurbo Five-Stage Filtration helps trap up to 99.7% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, keeping your home spot-free and healthier. Cleaning doesn’t get easier than this.
- Works as a handheld, robot, or stick vacuum
- Triple-laser system avoids obstacles and pets
- Self-cleaning brush detangles hair automatically
- 3L dustbin goes up to 75 days without emptying.
Conclusion
When choosing the right cordless vacuum, remember to think about your home size, the types of floors you have, how often you clean, and any special needs like pet hair or allergies. As long as you have a reliable cleaning partner for yourself, like the eufy Robot Vacuum E20, cleaning your house is something that you definitely won't dread.
FAQs
Can cordless vacuums clean pet hair well?
Yes, pet hair can be easily removed by cordless vacuums with strong suction and filters.
How long does the battery last on a cordless vacuum?
Cordless vacuums can run anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour on a single charge, but some, like the eufy E20, can work up to 3 hours.
Can I use a cordless vacuum on stairs?
Yes! Since cordless vacuums are compact and sleek, they are great for cleaning stairs and even tight corners.
