Handheld vacuum cleaners are made for quick clean-ups without a long hose or a mains cable: sofas, car interiors, stairs and shelves. Our range includes small handhelds and 2-in-1 stick vacuums that detach into a handheld unit. Over 140 models are available from brands such as BLACK+DECKER, BOSCH, ETA, SEVERIN, JIMMY and KARCHER.
How to choose a handheld vacuum cleaner
Type and where you will use it. A pure handheld is light, fits in a drawer or a car boot and suits crumbs and small spills. A 2-in-1 stick vacuum has a long tube for floors, and its motor unit detaches to work as a handheld. Our range includes 2-in-1 and 4-in-1 models, so if you also want to do floors, look at that group.
Battery and runtime. Most of our vacuums run on a battery, and only a few plug into the mains. Battery voltages in the range go from 12 V to 25.2 V, and the stated runtime is from 18 to 60 minutes. Higher voltage usually means stronger suction, but battery capacity also affects how long it lasts. Charging typically takes between 3.5 and 5 hours.
Dry or wet cleaning. Nearly all of the vacuums are for dry cleaning, and only a few are made for wet or dry and wet use. If you need to pick up spilt liquid, look for a model that clearly states wet cleaning. A dry-only vacuum is not suitable for liquids and can be damaged by them.
Dirt separation. The range includes vacuums with cyclonic, filtering and multi-cyclonic systems. Cyclonic separation pulls dust out of the airflow before it reaches the filter, so suction tends to drop less as the dust container fills. A filter needs regular cleaning or replacement, so check whether it is washable before you buy.
Weight and attachments. You hold a handheld vacuum at arm's length, so every extra hundred grams is noticeable. A narrow crevice tool is needed for corners and car seat seams, while a soft brush is better for furniture and keyboards.
Brands in our range
- BLACK+DECKER (also listed as BLACK & DECKER): known for the Dustbuster line of handheld vacuums, and the brand with the most models in our range.
- BOSCH: a German manufacturer that makes both household appliances and power tools, including cordless vacuums.
- MAKITA: a maker of cordless power tools whose vacuums generally use the same battery system as its tools.
- KARCHER: a cleaning equipment specialist known for pressure washers and wet and dry vacuums.
- PHILIPS and SAMSUNG: household appliance makers whose vacuum offer centres on cordless stick models.
- JIMMY: a Chinese brand focused on cordless and handheld vacuums for the home.
Also in our range: ETA, SEVERIN, TRISTAR, CECOTEC.
Frequently asked questions about handheld vacuums
What is the difference between a handheld and a stick vacuum?
A handheld vacuum is small, used in one hand and meant for surfaces and small areas. A stick vacuum has a long tube and is designed for cleaning floors while standing. 2-in-1 models combine the two, as the motor unit detaches and works as a handheld vacuum.
How long does a cordless handheld vacuum run on a charge?
In our range the stated runtime is from 18 to 60 minutes. At maximum power, where a model offers it, the vacuum runs for less time than in normal mode. For cleaning several rooms, choose a longer-running model or one with a replaceable battery.
Can a handheld vacuum pick up liquids?
Only if the manufacturer states that it is made for wet or dry and wet cleaning. Our range has few such models, and most vacuums are for dry use only. Liquid drawn into a dry vacuum can damage the motor and the filter.
Is a handheld vacuum suitable for cleaning a car?
Yes, a cordless handheld vacuum is convenient for a car because you do not need to find a socket. Choose a model with a narrow crevice tool and a brush so that you can reach seat seams and the footwells. If the vacuum runs on mains power, check that the cable is long enough to reach the whole interior.
