8 Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaners For Stairs in 2024
Stairs can be hard to clean. Finding the perfect cordless vacuum cleaners for stairs to clean them is much more challenging. Because most staircases are highly trafficked, you’ll want a vacuum that can pick up every bit of dirt and debris. Most powerful vacuums, on the other hand, are typically large and bulky. A heavy cleaning device would not be perfect if you have a full staircase.
Cleaning stairs will be much easier when you have a lightweight, compact stair vacuum. Otherwise, you’ll be forced to be innovative.
Anyone who has tried using an upright on steps will tell you that it is not an easy task. And, unless you bring the canister up the stairs with you, canister vacuums are always constrained by the length of their air hose.
The money you’ll invest in one of the best cordless vacuum cleaners for stairs is worth it. Using the appropriate tool for the task will save you time and resources. It’s also much easier on your back than carrying around with a full-size vacuum cleaner for stairs.
Consider the following characteristics when looking for the best vacuum for stairs.
To begin, do you prefer corded or cordless? Following that, are you vacuuming carpeted or bare stairs? Will you be vacuuming pet hair as well? And how important is the type of air filtration to you?
Do You Prefer Cordless or Corded Vacuum Cleaners?
While corded vacuums have superior suction power, cordless models provide unparalleled convenience. You will agree with me that the most important consideration when cleaning the stairs is comfort.
Furthermore, modern cordless vacuums have powerful enough airflow to clean carpets. Because most staircases have bare floors, a standard cordless vacuum with the required items and accessories would suffice.
Long cables are required for corded models, whether sticks, uprights, or canister vacuums. The majority are large and heavy appliances that would make cleaning the stairwell a chore rather than a natural process.
Aside from their weight and size, corded vacuums can only be used up to the length of the cable that comes with them. That can be a significant disadvantage for a long stairway.
Cordless vacuums can be used almost anywhere. Because there are no cords to restrict you, you can use them on any stairwell in your home, even those without an outlet. As previously stated, modern designs are powerful enough to clean carpeted stairs.
A powerful handheld vacuum is an excellent choice if you do not plan to use the stairway vacuum to clean other surfaces. A cordless stick vacuum would be ideal for an all-surface stair vacuum. Only make sure it has features that make cleaning simple, quick, and useful.
Other minor but critical considerations should be made when purchasing a stair vacuum. This included the brand or manufacturer of the vacuum.
A few companies, both new and old, are well-known for producing high-quality, long-lasting cleaning tools. Select those. Consider the warranty provided as well. You want the vacuum to be covered for an extended period of time in case it malfunctions.
Here is the list of Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaners For Stairs:
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1. Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Dysons are widely regarded as the gold standard in vacuum cleaners, and this cordless V11 model is the brand’s most powerful yet. Based on its 6,500+ five-star ratings, shoppers are clearly convinced that it is worth the price tag.
The cordless vacuum comes with a variety of accessories, including a mini motorized head and crevice tool for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. It’s light enough that carrying it up and down long flights of stairs feels natural.
Furthermore, it automatically switches its suction strength (eco, auto, or boost) depending on the type of floor, allowing you to move from the kitchen to the second-floor beds without missing a beat.
It’s also worth mentioning the vacuum’s battery. It can run for up to 60 minutes on a single charge, and the Lcd display makes it simple to see how much power is left. “The V11 does have enough battery life to vacuum my entire house (3,500 sq ft),” a customer wrote. “I no longer have to move furniture around and get into tight spaces like that between couches because this thing has made vacuuming the stairs a breeze.”
Pros
- Cordless design for easy maneuverability
- Strong suction power for deep cleaning
- Advanced filtration captures 99.97% of particles
- Comes with attachments for different cleaning tasks.
Cons
- Price is on the higher end of the spectrum for vacuum cleaners
- May be heavy for some users
- A bit noisy
- Battery life may not be enough for large cleaning sessions
- The filter may need to be cleaned frequently.
2. Makita XLC02R1B Compact Cordless Vacuum Kit
Makita, a well-known power equipment manufacturer, also produces vacuum cleaners. Their XLC02R1B cordless vacuum is powered by the same lithium-ion batteries as their drills.
Although it comes with a 2.0Ah battery for 15 minutes of runtime, it can also be powered by larger-capacity batteries.
This stair vacuum is extremely lightweight, going to weigh only 2.7 pounds with the battery onboard. Although it does not have a motorized tool for carpets, it has strong suction for cleaning up spills on bare floors. It also comes with a crevice tool and can be converted into a hand vac.
Pros
- Cordless and lightweight for easy maneuverability
- Strong suction power for efficient cleaning
- Long run time with the 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons
- Battery and charger are not included in the kit.
3. Moosoo Cordless Vacuum 4-in-1 Stick Vacuum
This well-liked Moosoo cordless vacuum also took first place on our list of the best vacuums for hardwood floors. More than 11,000 customers gave it a perfect five-star rating, citing the vacuum’s cost-effectiveness and lightweight design as two of their favorite features.
The vacuum’s head has convenient LED lights that allow you to see every bit of dirt and dust as you clean your stairs.
A high-density HEPA filter removes up to 99.99 percent of small dust particles. “We wanted a fresh vacuum because our old one didn’t work well enough on our hardwood floors, and having a dog that sheds a lot can be a bit troublesome,” wrote one customer.
It outperforms any other vacuum we’ve used on our hardwood floors… It works fantastically well along the walls as well, and [it] is extremely simple to use on the stairs.
Pros
- 4-in-1 design can be used as a stick vacuum
- Powerful suction for effectively cleaning hard floors and carpets
- Its lightweight design makes it easy to use and carry around
- Comes with 4 packs of HEPA filters for improved air quality
Cons
- The vacuum cleaner may not be as durable as corded models.
- HEPA filters may require regular replacement, which can increase the maintenance cost.
4. BISSELL Lithium-Ion Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Living with pets frequently entails having your home covered in fur. Fortunately, Bissell has an entire section of vacuum cleaners designed specifically for pet owners’ needs.
The Pet Hair Eraser handheld vacuum includes a motorized brush for deep cleaning the surface of stairs, an upholstery tool gentle enough even for furniture, and a crevasses tool for all the narrow spaces in between.
Although it only has a 17-minute runtime, many customers say they’ve never had a problem with the battery dying while vacuuming the stairs.
And, because pet hair accumulates quickly, you’ll cherish the large, easy-to-clean trash bin. One consumer wrote, “I have two dogs and a cat, so my carpeted stairs get dirty.” “Seriously, this vacuum is extremely lightweight, and I like how the various attachments clean edges and cracks, under radiators, carpeted stairs, and the couch.
The first time I used it, I felt like a kid on Christmas, and I couldn’t be happier. My house hasn’t looked this good in a long time.”
Pros
- Lithium-ion battery provides strong suction power
- Designed specifically for pet hair
- Comes with attachments for cleaning various surfaces
- Lightweight and easy to use
Cons
- May not be as powerful as a full-sized corded vacuum
- Some users have reported difficulty cleaning larger debris such as kibble.
5. Samsung Jet 90 Stick Cordless Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner
Despite the fact that it is clearly a splurge, the Samsung Jet 90 stick vacuum stands out from the rest of the options on this list for one major reason:
It has a telescopic pole that can be adjusted to four different heights ranging from 36.6 to 45 inches. This is a game-changer for some people, particularly those who get back pain from bending over while vacuuming.
The stick vacuum comes with a plethora of accessories (including a charging dock that also serves as storage), but as one customer put it, “the attachments are just enough without having a mess of useless tools you’ll never use.”
It weighs about six pounds and has a 180-degree swivel function for easy maneuverability. “I’m fairly tall, so I keep the tube extended out while vacuuming, and I can stand straight while using it,” one reviewer wrote. “I have to retract it back into the charger for it to sit on the charger, but the action is smooth and solid.”
Pros
- The strong suction power of 200 air watts
- Long-lasting battery
- Comes with a telescopic pipe for reaching tight spaces
- Compact and lightweight design
- Easy to maneuver and navigate
Cons
- Battery drains quickly
- Vacuum is noisy
- Heavy to hold for extended periods of time
6. Tineco S12 Smart Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
Tineco’s newest cordless vacuum is the Perfect ONE. In contrast to other cleaners, this appliance can be linked to your smartphone if you need or want to track your vacuuming trends, battery life, or cleaning cycles.
Although I don’t see the added value here, there are design and quality improvements that should not be overlooked. The Tineco S12 has a longer runtime (100 minutes when both batteries are used), is quieter, and is more efficient.
Thanks to a dirt detector that automatically adjusts the suction premised on floor readings. Unfortunately, the PURE ONE costs the same as a high-end Dyson but consider it an investment.
Pros
- Optimized ultra-powerful suction
- Long runtimes
- Excellent for multi-surface and pet hair cleaning
Cons
- The price may be higher than some other cordless stick vacuums.
- Some reviewers have reported issues with battery life or suction power.
7. Shark ION F80 Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum cleaner
Shark is a well-known and trusted brand. They are well-known for producing high-quality vacuum cleaners. And one of their most recent and popular products is the ION F80 MultiFlex. Shark’s MultiFlex cordless unit is the most comprehensive.
It costs half as much as a V11 Torque Drive (the main contender from Dyson). The MultiFlex combines the ease of use of an upright vacuum cleaner with the superior features of a cordless vacuum system.
The unit is intended to be a complete HEPA-sealed system. Because it is cordless, it can handle almost any cleaning task, from hairballs under furniture to carpeted stairs.
Shark has not disclosed the suction power, but independent tests place it at 38 CFM/24 CFM (highest and lowest settings respectively).
The clear bin fits perfectly into the main system and can keep up to 11 oz of trash. Fingertip controls, LED lights, Active Glide, and DuoClean technology are among the other unique features.
The machine is quieter than previous models. Overall, the Shark F80 is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an all-purpose vacuum that can clean not only stairs and floors, but also vents, crevices, and other hard-to-reach areas. If you’re interested in this vacuum, keep an eye out for Shark’s seasonal sales.
Pros
- DuoClean technology effectively cleans both carpet and hard floors
- Hand vacuum mode for versatile cleaning options
- Includes two removable batteries for extended cleaning time
- MultiFLEX technology allows for convenient, compact storage
Cons
- May not have as much suction power as corded models
- Expensive
8. Black Decker Max Flex Handheld Vacuum Cleaner
The Black+Decker Max Flex vacuum has a slightly different design than typical handheld models, but customers insist that it’s still similar in size and even more lightweight (just over three pounds).
It has a four-foot flexible hose, so you can leave the vacuum’s body on the bottom of your staircase while you vacuum each step, and then simply move it up as needed.
When it’s time to dust your blinds or ceiling fan, you can hold the vacuum in one hand and extend the hose to clean with the other hand.
If you want to use it for bigger cleaning jobs, consider this version that comes with an attachable floor head. (Just keep in mind that the dirt bowl only holds 17 ounces of debris.) “It’s small but powerful,” one customer wrote.
“I love being able to vacuum the stairs in our townhouse with this handheld unit instead of modifying the upright with a long hose.”
Pros
- Cordless design allows for easy maneuverability and portability
- Comes with a floor head and pet hair brush for versatile cleaning options
- 20V MAX* battery provides strong suction power
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the dustbin filling up quickly
- The vacuum is heavy to hold for an extended period of time.
Buying Guide for Cordless Vacuum Cleaners for Stairs
Cleaning stairs can be challenging, especially when dealing with a bulky, corded vacuum. Thanks to the advancements in technology, we now have cordless vacuum cleaners that make cleaning a breeze.
In this comprehensive buying guide, we will explore the top 8 cordless vacuum cleaners for stairs, their features, and what to consider when buying one.
When shopping for a cordless vacuum cleaner for stairs, consider the following features:
Corded or Cordless
According to a survey by Statista, 34% of respondents in the United States in 2020 used cordless handheld vacuum cleaners, indicating a growing preference for cordless models due to their convenience and ease of use. The vacuum cleaner market is projected to grow by 1 billion dollars in the United States by 2025.
Type of Stairs
Are your stairs carpeted or bare? Some vacuum cleaners are better suited for carpeted stairs, while others work best on bare stairs. A study by the National Center for Healthy Housing found that carpeted floors can contain dust allergen concentrations up to 50% higher than non-carpeted floors.
This suggests that if your stairs are carpeted, you’ll need a vacuum cleaner specifically designed to effectively clean carpets
Pet Hair
According to the American Pet Products Association, 67% of U.S. households, or about 85 million families, own a pet. If you’re among this majority, a vacuum cleaner that can effectively pick up pet hair is crucial.
Air Filtration
The type of air filtration is also important, especially for those with allergies. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that indoor air can be 2 to 5 times more polluted than outdoor air. Vacuum cleaners with HEPA filters can trap 99.97% of particles, significantly improving indoor air quality.
Conclusion
Stairs can be difficult to clean, but not with the right vacuum. Selecting the Perfect Cordless Vacuum Cleaners For Stairs necessarily involves a thorough examination of the available models. Upright and canister vacuums have excellent suction, but they lack portability and usability on a staircase.
Cordless stick vacuums and handhelds are more compact, lightweight, and simpler to use. They are also best suited for emergency situations such as pet accidents and spills. The best ones are outfitted with features that produce outstanding results, making them more desirable.
Consider the runtime and suction power of a cordless model when purchasing one to clean the stairs. A powerful vacuum will ensure that no dirt is left behind. It can also clean a variety of surfaces, including carpets.
Make sure the device is light enough just to carry in your palms or hoist from one step to the next. To clean the various parts of a staircase, use a vacuum that comes with the appropriate attachments or tools. If it’s a bagless model, consider the filtration and bin capacity as well.
Choose HEPA filtration and a bin capacity that will not require you to detach the dirt compartment between tasks to dispose of dirt. Cleaning stairs does not have to be a difficult task if you have the right vacuum.
Before buying a vacuum, try comparing not just the price, size, and model type, but rather the set of accessories, additional features (e.g., LED lights), and materials used.
Just because a product is expensive does not mean it is ideal for your requirements. And just because something is cheap doesn’t mean it can’t live up to your expectations. I’d love to hear your thoughts on my ideas.
FAQs
A vacuum with a powerful motorized brush roll and adjustable suction control to adapt to the pile of carpet is the best option for cleaning carpeted stairs.
Use a handheld/cordless vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool attachment. Start at the top and work down, using the crevice tool to clean edges and risers. Overlap strokes and be careful to maintain a steady footing.
It is best to start vacuuming the stairs at the top and work your way down. This way, any debris that is pushed down the stairs by the vacuum will be collected as you work your way down.