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10 Best Hepa Vacuums 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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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 by1,439
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
120106 reviews

Suction Power
The suction on this vacuum is amazing, making it a significant step up from older models like the Bissell 2999.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite the smaller cleaning head, it excels in tight spaces and corners, though it requires more passes for larger areas.
Noise Level
A whole lot less noisy than previous models, and easy to maneuver without being heavy.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with Swivel Steering is a versatile and highly functional vacuum cleaner, ideal for homeowners, especially those with pets. One of its standout features is the HEPA filter combined with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, which traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. The suction power is robust, ensuring efficient cleaning on both carpets and hard floors, and the brushroll shutoff feature adds to its adaptability across different surfaces.

It is bagless, which means you won’t need to purchase replacement bags, and the extra-large dust cup capacity allows for longer cleaning sessions without frequent emptying. Weighing 13.7 pounds, it is relatively light and the swivel steering enhances maneuverability, making it easy to handle around furniture and tight spaces. However, it is corded, which might limit its range of motion compared to cordless vacuums. The noise level is 80 dB, which is moderate but could be quieter.

The vacuum comes with useful attachments such as a Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, and Crevice Tool, which enhance its cleaning versatility, especially for pet hair removal and reaching tight spots. It has been well received by users, holding a high rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 111,000 reviews, indicating general customer satisfaction. While it might not be the quietest or the most portable (due to the cord), its performance, particularly for households with pets and allergy concerns, makes it a strong contender in the market.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,439
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
120106 reviews

Suction Power
The suction on this vacuum is amazing, making it a significant step up from older models like the Bissell 2999.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite the smaller cleaning head, it excels in tight spaces and corners, though it requires more passes for larger areas.
Noise Level
A whole lot less noisy than previous models, and easy to maneuver without being heavy.
#2

Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum – Lightweight Cordless with HEPA Filter, Portable, Rechargeable, Auto-Empty System, Stick Vacuum for Pet Hair, Carpets & Hardfloor, White, BU3521

Rating
8.5
HEPA Filter
Suction Power
Bagged vs. Bagless

Most important from
13813 reviews

HEPA Filter
Highly recommended for pet owners and allergy sufferers due to strong HEPA filtration capturing over 99.97% of allergens and minimal dust exposure from the auto-empty system.
Suction Power
The suction power remains strong unless the dust cup is very full, effectively handling pet hair and even crystal cat litter stuck in carpets.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Highly recommended for pet owners and allergy sufferers due to strong HEPA filtration capturing over 99.97% of allergens and minimal dust exposure from the auto-empty system.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its cordless design and moderate weight make it maneuverable and easy to store, fitting under furniture and standing upright without needing a wall mount.
Attachments and Accessories
Switching between the main vacuum and handheld or crevice attachments is seamless, making it versatile for cleaning tight spaces like car seats and couch cushions.
Corded vs. Cordless
Battery life delivers up to 40 minutes in eco mode, sufficient for most cleaning tasks, though high-power mode drains faster and extra batteries are sold separately.

The Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick Vacuum is a solid choice for those wanting a lightweight and easy-to-use HEPA vacuum, especially in homes with pets or allergy concerns. Its standout feature is the auto-empty system, which automatically empties the dustbin into a sealed base after each use, greatly reducing dust exposure and mess. This is a big plus if you dislike handling dirt or want to limit allergens in the air. The included HEPA filter captures over 99.97% of tiny dust and allergens, making it effective for allergy sufferers. Being cordless and weighing about 11 pounds, it’s fairly maneuverable around the house, and it even transforms into a handheld vacuum for small or above-floor areas.

The vacuum offers up to 40 minutes of runtime in eco mode, which should cover most cleaning tasks, though high-power mode will drain the battery faster. Its auto-adjusting brushroll works well on both carpets and hard floors, and LED headlights help reveal hidden debris. Noise level is generally manageable, with a quiet mode available when docked. However, it’s not the lightest stick vacuum on the market, and its 1.3-liter capacity means the base will fill up eventually, requiring manual emptying. Attachments like a crevice tool and pet multi-tool add versatility, but extra batteries are sold separately if longer cleaning sessions are needed.

This vacuum combines strong HEPA filtration and convenience features, making it a great fit for allergy sufferers and pet owners looking for a cordless vacuum that minimizes mess and dust exposure.

Rating
8.5
HEPA Filter
Suction Power
Bagged vs. Bagless

Most important from
13813 reviews

HEPA Filter
Highly recommended for pet owners and allergy sufferers due to strong HEPA filtration capturing over 99.97% of allergens and minimal dust exposure from the auto-empty system.
Suction Power
The suction power remains strong unless the dust cup is very full, effectively handling pet hair and even crystal cat litter stuck in carpets.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Highly recommended for pet owners and allergy sufferers due to strong HEPA filtration capturing over 99.97% of allergens and minimal dust exposure from the auto-empty system.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its cordless design and moderate weight make it maneuverable and easy to store, fitting under furniture and standing upright without needing a wall mount.
Attachments and Accessories
Switching between the main vacuum and handheld or crevice attachments is seamless, making it versatile for cleaning tight spaces like car seats and couch cushions.
Corded vs. Cordless
Battery life delivers up to 40 minutes in eco mode, sufficient for most cleaning tasks, though high-power mode drains faster and extra batteries are sold separately.
#3

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

Rating
8.5
Suction Power
Bagged vs. Bagless
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
120106 reviews

Suction Power
The suction is powerful and picks up everything on the first pass, including hard-to-pick-up items like glitter.
Bagged vs. Bagless
The amount of debris picked up means frequent emptying of the dust cup, but it shows the vacuum's effectiveness.
Weight and Maneuverability
This vacuum glides effortlessly on both carpet and laminate floors, making cleaning feel like going down a butter slide.
Noise Level
Despite its powerful performance, it operates quieter than previous vacuums owned, which is a plus for apartment living.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments are useful but can feel awkward to use, especially for detailed cleaning tasks.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable HEPA vacuum cleaner that effectively tackles various cleaning tasks. One of its main strengths is the powerful suction, which allows it to perform well on both carpets and bare floors. The lift-away functionality is particularly handy, enabling users to detach the pod for cleaning hard-to-reach areas like under furniture or on stairs.

Another highlight is the anti-allergen complete seal technology combined with the HEPA filter, which traps dust and allergens effectively—a great feature for allergy sufferers or pet owners. The upholstery and crevice tools included help with pet hair pickup and detail cleaning.

Maneuverability is another plus, thanks to the swivel steering that makes it easy to navigate around furniture and tight corners. The large dust cup capacity of 0.9 quarts means fewer trips to the trash, which can be a big time-saver. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The vacuum weighs almost 16 pounds, which might be a bit heavy for some users, especially when moving it up and down stairs. Additionally, the noise level is at 80 dB, which can be quite loud during operation, possibly disturbing others in the home. Since it is corded, you won’t have the freedom of movement that a cordless vacuum provides, which might limit your cleaning range. Lastly, while the accessories are useful, the need for regular filter maintenance might deter some users who prefer a more low-maintenance option.

Rating
8.5
Suction Power
Bagged vs. Bagless
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
120106 reviews

Suction Power
The suction is powerful and picks up everything on the first pass, including hard-to-pick-up items like glitter.
Bagged vs. Bagless
The amount of debris picked up means frequent emptying of the dust cup, but it shows the vacuum's effectiveness.
Weight and Maneuverability
This vacuum glides effortlessly on both carpet and laminate floors, making cleaning feel like going down a butter slide.
Noise Level
Despite its powerful performance, it operates quieter than previous vacuums owned, which is a plus for apartment living.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments are useful but can feel awkward to use, especially for detailed cleaning tasks.

Buying Guide for the Best Hepa Vacuums

When it comes to choosing a HEPA vacuum, it's important to understand what makes these vacuums unique and how to select the right one for your needs. HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air, and these vacuums are designed to trap very small particles, making them ideal for people with allergies or asthma. To make an informed decision, you should consider several key specifications that will impact the vacuum's performance and suitability for your home.
HEPA FilterThe HEPA filter is the core component of these vacuums, designed to capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This is crucial for maintaining clean air and reducing allergens. When evaluating HEPA filters, ensure that the vacuum has a true HEPA filter, not just a 'HEPA-like' or 'HEPA-type' filter, as these do not meet the same standards. If you or someone in your household has severe allergies, a true HEPA filter is essential.
Suction PowerSuction power determines how effectively the vacuum can pick up dirt and debris. This is usually measured in watts or air watts. Higher suction power means better cleaning performance, especially on carpets and rugs. For homes with thick carpets or pets, a vacuum with higher suction power is recommended. For homes with mostly hard floors, moderate suction power may be sufficient.
Filtration SystemIn addition to the HEPA filter, the overall filtration system of the vacuum is important. This includes pre-filters and other stages of filtration that help capture larger particles before they reach the HEPA filter. A multi-stage filtration system can prolong the life of the HEPA filter and improve overall air quality. If you have a high level of dust or pet hair, a vacuum with a robust filtration system is beneficial.
Bagged vs. BaglessHEPA vacuums come in both bagged and bagless models. Bagged vacuums tend to be better at containing dust and allergens, as the bag traps particles and is disposed of entirely. Bagless vacuums, on the other hand, are more convenient and cost-effective since you don't need to buy replacement bags. However, emptying a bagless vacuum can release dust back into the air. If you have severe allergies, a bagged model might be the better choice.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight and maneuverability of the vacuum affect how easy it is to use, especially if you have a multi-story home or need to carry the vacuum up and down stairs. Lighter vacuums are easier to handle and store, but they may have less powerful motors. Consider your physical ability and the layout of your home when choosing the weight and design of the vacuum.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a vacuum can be an important factor, especially if you have young children, pets, or noise-sensitive individuals in your home. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Quieter vacuums typically operate at around 60-65 dB, while louder models can exceed 70 dB. If a quieter environment is important to you, look for vacuums with lower noise levels.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the functionality of your HEPA vacuum. Common attachments include crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair tools. These can help you clean hard-to-reach areas, furniture, and pet hair more effectively. Consider what types of surfaces and areas you need to clean and choose a vacuum with the appropriate attachments.
Corded vs. CordlessCorded vacuums offer consistent power and are generally more powerful, making them suitable for larger homes or extensive cleaning sessions. Cordless vacuums offer greater mobility and convenience, especially for quick clean-ups or smaller spaces. However, they have limited battery life and may not be as powerful. Consider your cleaning habits and the size of your home when deciding between corded and cordless models.

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