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Why would you need or want a handheld vacuum when there are bigger and cooler vacuums out there? Well, there are a few notable reasons you’d want to have your own handheld vacuum. If you have a carpet that needs maintenance, it’s a great reason for you to get one. It’s your lucky day, we’ve just gathered 2023’s best handheld vacuum cleaners for high pile thick carpets. First, let’s dig deep into why you’d want a handheld vacuum.

Benefits of Handheld Vacuum Cleaners

Small and unbelievable; handheld vacuums are heaven-sent for clean freaks. You will understand why once you realize all the benefits of having a handheld vacuum. For some people, it’s a must-have extra vacuum cleaner in the house. In many households, handheld vacuum cleaners typically end up as the most-used appliance at home.

Especially for those who like to keep the house tidy, you can always rely on your handheld vacuum when someone spilled something. You will appreciate it more if you have a carpet and a furry pet, which is not the best combination for people who desire a spotless abode. Here are more reasons why people get obsessed with handheld vacuum cleaners:

Size

Handheld vacuums are way smaller than their bulky counterparts. Besides the fact that smaller vacuum cleaners are easy to carry and portable, handheld vacuum cleaners are also easy to store. It’s especially beneficial for people who live in small spaces like dormitories, apartments, or RV’s. You don’t have to compromise space or your storage area when you have a handheld vacuum while keeping everything clean.

Small-sized vacuums also mean you can suck up dirt in hard-to-reach places. This is probably one of the most-liked advantages of having a handheld vacuum. You can easily clean tight spaces and corners, which you cannot do using other bulkier vacuum types.

Weight

With its small size, handheld vacuum cleaners are light. With its weight, you can easily carry it around your home. If you have a back problem, or you hate dragging a bulky vacuum to above-floors, a handheld vacuum cleaner is for you. Most of these products weigh less than five pounds. Meaning, it’s suitable for quick clean-ups. It’s also great for the elderly, even for kids, if you want to teach them to clean after making a mess.

Portability

Apart from being lightweight and having a handle, many handheld vacuum cleaners are cordless, too. It makes these products portable, which means you can use it for your car or bring it wherever you go. Of course, handheld vacuum cleaners with cords are also portable. However, cordless ones offer more convenience and flexibility when you use them outdoors.

Many people bring their handheld vacuums when going to the beach to get rid of sand in their vehicles. Some people also carry it when they go camping and use it in many ways. It’s also a handy appliance for cleaning outside spaces of your home like patios or sheds. Compared to its larger counterparts, you will not need to worry about dragging it in and out of your house.

Quick-Mess Savior

Light, compact, and convenient to use for small places; we’ve mentioned all these perks, and we’re not yet done. A handheld vacuum cleaner can be your go-to appliance for cleaning up quick messes. Whether you need to suck up the dirt of your dusty couch when visitors come in a short notice, or your kid spills up his cereal again, this is the vacuum that you can quickly grab and use to take care of this kind of urgencies.

A handheld vacuum does wonders as well during the season when your pet sheds lots of hair. Many excellent brands can efficiently clean bare floors, carpet, even wooden floors. All you need to do is find the best product for your needs.

Versatile

Handheld vacuums can clean a slew of various things that big vacuum cleaners can’t. Apart from tight and hard-to-reach spaces, you’d also like to have this type of vacuum if you’re cleaning sensitive areas like wooden floors. Large and heavy vacuums may put a dent on wood surfaces, unlike handheld vacuums where you can have more control.

As mentioned, handheld vacuums are also easy-to-carry, and you can use them outdoors. It’s a must-have for people who own a vehicle or a car. We know how easy it is to make a mess inside our vehicles, especially when going for long rides.

Maintainability

Handheld vacuums are surprisingly easy to maintain. For most models, you won’t need to buy extra equipment like bags and other tools. You can easily dispose of accumulated dirt and proceed to your next cleaning. Most models also have filters that can be easily changed. Most parts of these vacuums rarely require cleaning and repairing as well.

Price

Compared to other vacuum types, handheld vacuum cleaners are wonderfully cheaper. You can get a high-quality vacuum without breaking the bank. The price depends on the brand, and the accessories it comes with, but handheld vacuums definitely cost lower than upright vacuums.

Top Handheld Vacuum Cleaners for Carpet Cleaning

Now, you probably want your own handheld vacuum after hearing all these benefits. For that, we gathered the leading brands and models for this type of vacuum cleaner. You can choose among these superb handheld vacuums for your needs. When selecting the right vacuum cleaner for you, you may want to consider the price, features, rating, and pros and cons of the products. These essential details you can also find in the following:

#1 Bissel Pet Hair Eraser 33A1

Bissel Pet Hair Eraser 33A1 stands true to its name. This handheld vacuum cleaner works wonders when it comes to removing pet hair on almost everything. Upholstery, carpet, couch, stairs, you name it. This handheld vacuum has a flexible rubber nozzle, which makes it efficient for getting rid of hair.

Here’s a quick summary of the specifications of Bissel Pet Hair Eraser 33A1:

• Rubber nozzle and hard nozzle attachments
• 16-feet cord length
• Velcro to keep the cord in place
• 5-pound heavy
• Suitable for cleaning multiple surface types
• 5″ cleaning path
• 10″ overall length
• HEPA and mesh filter
• 0.78-liter bin
• 4-amp power
• 1-year Warranty

This vacuum may look cute, but it’s tough on dirt. It comes with two kinds of nozzles, which allow it to be efficient in gathering hair and dust. Bissel Pet Hair Eraser 33A1 comes with a red nozzle, which is flexible and works great in getting hairs on upholstery. The black, hard nozzle is suitable for cleaning tiles, hardwood, or carpeted surfaces.

One of the greatest highlights of this product is its filter. It has a two-level filter made of HEPA and mesh, which makes it hypo-allergenic. You can easily clean the filters by washing it using cold water. Emptying the bin is also seamless. Just press the lever, and the dirt bin separates from the motor, allowing smooth dirt disposal.

When it comes to cleaning hair on carpet, this vacuum does the job. With its rubber nozzle, it’s easy to pick up fur and hair on the carpet. It also works excellent in getting rid of hairs on the most challenging surfaces like fabric, sofa, and suede.

On the other hand, you may struggle with cleaning hard surfaces. The product tends to blow away dust and pet litter due to its air vents on both of its sides. This design flaw can be a drawback for people with allergy, as the vacuum may blow away dust and dirt when cleaning. Although some customers found a way to counteract the issue. A hose adapter and flex hose are available and can be used to avoid the vents to blow away dust. It’s an added accessory, which may cost $11-12.

Overall, Bissel Pet Hair Eraser 33A1 makes every pet owner’s life easier. It’s a highly recommended product if you’re looking for an affordable handheld vacuum that can remove hair from carpet, stairs, and upholstery. The vents could be an issue if you’re mainly using the vacuum for cleaning dust on hard surfaces.

Below are the pros and cons of Bissel Pet Hair Eraser 33A1:

Pros

• Cheap
• Lightweight
• Strong suction power
• HEPA filters
• Versatile on multiple surface types
• Convenient handle
• Comes with multiple tools for different cleaning needs
• Works excellent in hair cleaning
• Good for carpet cleaning

Cons

• Power cord could be longer
• Small dirt container
• Tends to blow away dust and dirt while cleaning
• You may have a hard time picking up large debris

Product Rating: 8.8

Where can I buy Bissel Pet Hair Eraser 33A1

#2 Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot

Black & Decker appliances have been around for a while. It established an excellent reputation when it comes to household products. When it comes to their handheld vacuum cleaners, you can’t go wrong as well. Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot does a great job of sucking up dirt and dust. This model is lightweight, easy-to-carry, and with its lithium-ion battery, it stays on for a long time.

Here’s a quick summary of the specifications of Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot:

• 20-volt lithium-ion battery
• charging stand for charging
• 2 hours charging time
• Good battery life (about 15 minutes)
• 3-pound heavy
• 6.8 inches cleaning path
• 18 inches in length
• LED battery indicator
• Washable filter and cup for filtration
• 15 oz. dirt capacity
• 35 Air watts
• 110-120v
• 2-year Warranty

Out of the box, the Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot comes out on its own. It doesn’t have any accessories, as all the tools are built-in. It has, however, a charging stand for charging, which didn’t come in the previous model.

When it comes to cleaning performance, the product does an efficient job. It offers exceptional suction power, which works excellently on bare floors. This device, however, is made to clean small or isolated areas. It’s a spot-cleaning tool, which means you can’t expect to clean your whole kitchen and dining room using this vacuum. The Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot has a pull-out brush tool, allowing the vacuum cleaner to get more dust. Its crevice tool, on the other hand, works well in hard to reach areas.

When it comes to carpet cleaning, however, this vacuum can only clean the surface. It doesn’t have a motorized brush that could deep clean carpets and upholstery.

Overall, Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot is an excellent choice for a handheld vacuum. If you live in a small space, this vacuum can help you keep your home clean. Its powerful suction works excellent for spot cleaning. However, if you’re looking for a handheld vacuum for pet hair, you may have a hard time using this product. Although it can get hairs, it’s not the best for getting rid of fur on carpets. You will also quickly fill up the bin with hair if your pet sheds a lot. The Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot, however, is for you if you’re looking for a handheld vacuum that stays on for a longer time with its lithium-ion battery.

Below are the pros and cons of Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot:

Pros

• Good suction power
• Small footprint
• Long-lasting battery time
• Two-year Warranty
• Emptying is easy
• Replaceable battery
• Tools are all built-in

Cons

• Not recommended for cleaning pet hair
• Can only clean the surface of carpets
• Small dirt bin

Product rating: 8.2

Where can I buy Black & Decker BDH2000PL MAX Pivot

#3 Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld

The Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld is probably one of the best handheld vacuums you can find, but just like the usual complaint about Dyson products, it’s on the expensive side. It’s a premium spot cleaner that many happy customers recommend. It has a strong suction force, a HEPA filter, and the running time extends longer than any average handheld vacuums.

Here’s a quick summary of the specifications of Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld:

• Dyson’s Hygienic Emptying System
• 3.77-pound heavy
• 2-year Warranty
• Filters up to 0.5 microns of allergens
• Bagless
• Max suction power 100 Air Watts
• Max running time of 30 minutes
• 2100 mAh battery
• Lithium-ion battery
• Crevice, combination, and mini turbo brush tools

The Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld, no doubt, is a competitive model. Pet owners recommend this product, as it can easily pick up hair and fur on any kind of surface. With its impressive suction power, its spot-cleaning performance is definitely spot-on. The product’s Hygienic Emptying System is also a remarkable improvement, allowing seamless dirt disposal. The mini turbo brush does an excellent job in carpet cleaning, as well as upholstery, stairs, or couch.

However, you can’t expect this vacuum to clean your entire floor as it doesn’t come with an extension tool. It’s mainly a spot cleaner, so you might want to set your expectations. With its long-running time of 30 minutes (maximum), you can clean as much as you can using a cordless vacuum. The running time varies, though, depending on the suction power setting you’re using. You will also get options for its suction power from low to maximum.

Cleaning on bare floors has never been quick and easy using the Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld. There’s an issue regarding the exhaust at the back of the model, on the other hand. The vacuum tends to blow dirt when in Max Power mode. Other than the vacuum’s price tag and exhaust, there are no major issues about this product.

Below are the pros and cons of Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld Vacuum:

Pros

• Powerful suction
• Mini motorized brush makes cleaning more efficient
• Versatile
• Comes with various cleaning tools
• Max 30 minutes cleaning time
• Durable
• Easy to empty
• Two power modes

Cons

• Expensive
• Dirt bin could be larger
• Doesn’t come with a hose

Product rating: 8.4

Where can I buy Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld Vacuum

#4 Dirt Devil Scorpion Handheld Vacuum Cleaner SD20005RED

Red, glossy, devilish; apart from this handheld vacuum’s badass design, the Dirt Devil Scorpion vacuum cleaner boasts an impressive suction power, too. Lightweight and easy-to-use, many customers are satisfied with what this product offers. With a 7-amps motor, it can pick up dirt and dust easily. However, with its small nozzle, there could be times when removing dirt can be an issue.

Here’s a quick summary of the specifications the Dirt Devil Scorpion vacuum cleaner:

• 3+ lbs weight
• 0.45 L dirt bin capacity
• Attachable 5-feet hose
• 7-Amp motor
• 3 Year Warranty
• Bagless
• 16-feet cord
• 120 v

When it comes to carpet cleaning, customers give varying comments on the vacuum’s performance. Some people say it has tendencies to struggle to get dirt from carpet and bare floors due to its small nozzle. On the other hand, satisfied customers attest this product is heaven-sent when it comes to carpet and stairs cleaning due to its powerful suction force. We’ll say most feedbacks we’ve seen are positive when it comes to carpet cleaning. The vacuum’s dusting brush is a great help in cleaning car carpet and sucking up pet hairs on upholstery. The main issue we’ve seen is about the durability of the product parts. Some customers experienced falling off plastic parts in just a short time after purchasing the product.

The Dirt Devil Scorpion vacuum cleaner is for you if you want an affordable spot-cleaning vacuum with great suction power. It can do the job when it comes to carpet cleaning and removing pet hair in your car or upholstery. However, for long time use, carrying it using the handle may start feeling heavy.

Below are the pros and cons the Dirt Devil Scorpion vacuum cleaner:

Pros

• Powerful suction
• Lengthy power cord
• Easy to maneuver
• Lightweight
• Easy to empty
• Affordable
• Easy to maintain
• Versatile

Cons

• Tends to be loud
• Vents tend to blow off dirt
• Durability issues

Product rating: 8.6

Where can I buy Dirt Devil Scorpion Vacuum Cleaner

#5 BLACK DECKER HHVI320JR02 Cordless Hand Vacuum (HHVI320JR02)

BLACK DECKER products have been impressing customers for many years. We can safely say that again; they were able to reach the market’s expectations with this BLACK DECKER HHVI320JR02 Cordless Hand Vacuum. It’s probably one of the best handheld vacuums you can find out there. It’s lightweight, compact, works great on multiple surface types, sleek, and it has an excellent suction power.

Here’s a quick summary of the specifications BLACK DECKER HHVI320JR02 Cordless Hand Vacuum:

• 2.40-pound heavy
• 16 AW suction power
• Cordless
• 20.6 oz dirt bin capacity
• Lithium-Ion battery
• 2-year Warranty
• jack plug charger
• Wall mount

If you’re mainly looking for a vacuum that can pick up pet hairs, BLACK DECKER HHVI320JR02 is for you. This vacuum has a flip-up brush, which aids in getting rid of stubborn fur on carpet, upholstery, stairs, and your car. Its crevice tool, on the other hand, will help you clean hard-to-reach places.

The BLACK DECKER HHVI320JR02 Cordless Hand Vacuum boasts cyclonic action, which separates dirt from the air, allowing the filter to remain clean for a longer time. However, this product is specially made for spot cleaning. Thus, do not expect you can use it for cleaning vast spaces like your kitchen floor or living area. You can rely on this product, however, if you want to use it when you camping or when you go to the beach. Because it’s light, compact, and cordless, it’s a great tool that you can carry with you when you go outdoors.

The vacuum’s clear dirt bin, though simple, is a beautiful touch, allowing you to see the contents of the container. It’s particularly useful for knowing when you need to empty the bin. If you lost tiny things, looking through the transparent bin will help you find your lost item easier. If you’re on a tight budget, however, this may not be the product for you. It’s more expensive than other competing handheld vacuums, but if you don’t mind the cost, the BLACK DECKER HHVI320JR02 Cordless Hand Vacuum is a steal.

Below are the pros and cons of BLACK DECKER HHVI320JR02 Cordless Hand Vacuum:

Pros

• Lightweight
• Long-lasting lithium-ion battery
• Washable filter
• Efficient handle
• Rotating nozzle
• Strong and consistent suction power
• Translucent design, allows you to see bin contents
• Versatile
• Easy to store

Cons

• Tends to be loud
• Expensive
• Brush lacks maneuver abilities

Product rating: 8.6

Where can I buy BLACK DECKER HHVI320JR02 Cordless Hand Vacuum

#6 Shark Pet-Perfect II SV780

Shark Pet-Perfect II SV780 is the vacuum for if you’re specifically after a handheld vacuum that works efficiently on carpet cleaning. The motorized brush and the powerful suction is a perfect tandem to fight away stubborn dust, dirt, and hair on different surface types. The design is sleek; it’s easy-to-carry and compact. It’s a great cleaning tool for tight spaces and vehicles.

Here’s a quick summary of the specifications of Shark Pet-Perfect II SV780:

• Cordless
• 4.92-pound heavy
• 1-year Warranty
• Bagless
• 18 volts Nickel Cadmium battery
• wall mount
• Washable filter
• 0.56 quartz bin capacity
• 15-minute running time
• 1-year Warranty

Shark Pet-Perfect II SV780 does what its name implies. This vacuum is perfect for pet owners, as it does an excellent job of getting rid of fur and hair. The biggest drawback of this product, however, is its batteries. It takes a long 16-hour charging time before you can use it, and it only runs for about a maximum of 15 minutes. Although some customers say it only takes them about 5 minutes to clean up their mess, for people who like to use it for a longer time, it could be an issue.

Each unit comes with three attachable tools: the crevice tool, brush, and motorized brush. All the tools add efficiency in cleaning tasks. The vacuum also boasts an excellent suction power, which allows it to gather dust and dirt from bare floors, carpet, upholstery, and stairs.

Overall, this product is recommended for pet owners and if you’re specifically after a handheld vacuum that can clean carpet. However, if you hate vacuum cleaners with a short running time, this product is not for you. If you’re okay with changing its batteries to lithium-ion, you can resolve this short running time issue, as the batteries of this vacuum are removable.

Check out the full review here: Shark Cordless Pet Perfect ii Hand Vac SV780 Review 2020. Reasons Why It’s an Impressive Model

Below are the pros and cons of Shark Pet-Perfect II SV780:

Pros

• Motorized brush
• Powerful suction
• Removal and replaceable batteries
• Easy to use
• Comes with two tools for different cleaning needs

Cons

• 16 hours charging time
• Heavy
• Short running time

Product rating: 8.6

Where can I buy Shark Pet-Perfect II SV780

#7 The Shark Rocket Corded Hand Vacuum (HV292)

Last but not least is the Shark Rocket Hand Vacuum HV292. It probably is the best handheld vacuum for high pile carpets. For the quality of cleaning it provides, it sure has a cheap tag. The suction power is impressive, and it’s unbelievably lightweight. The washable filters will help you save money, as you won’t need to replace the filters frequently.

Here’s a quick summary of the specifications of the Shark Rocket Corded Hand Vacuum (HV292):

• 3.7-pounds heavy
• 15-feet power cord
• washable filters
• Never Loses Suction technology
• 1-year Warranty
• 400 Watts power
• Crevice tool, Motorized brush, Dusting brush, Extended reach hose

For a small and compact vacuum, this Shark Rocket is pretty badass when it comes to cleaning. You can even rely on it if you wish to deep clean your thick high pile carpet. With its impressive suction power and TruePet motorized brush, you can get rid of stubborn hair, dirt, dust, even carpet beetles on multiple surface types. Although corded, its long 15-feet power cord allows you to clean spaces far from the socket.

This product works well on spot cleaning using its micro-cleaning kit, which comes with useful tools for cleaning. You can snoop away dust and dirt from tight crevices of your upholstery, stairs, and other furniture. Customers also love the crevice tool, and the hose, allowing them to clean hard-to-reach places.

The best highlight of this product is its price. With the quality of cleaning it offers for all types of surfaces, you won’t need to break the bank to get your own Shark Rocket Corded Hand Vacuum HV292. On the downside, one major complaint about this product is its durability.

Some customers experienced having damaged units in just a short time after purchase. The product’s 1-year warranty can be an issue, knowing these complaints about the product’s durability. When it comes to emptying the bin contents, however, it’s easy and seamless. You won’t have a problem with dirt disposal using the Shark Rocket.

Check out the full review here: Shark Rocket Handheld Vacuum HV292

Below are the pros and cons of the Shark Rocket Corded Hand Vacuum (HV292):

Pros

• Strong suction power
• Long power cord
• Washable filters
• Large dirt bin
• Lightweight
• Easy to empty
• Easy to maneuver
• Long reach for cleaning tight spaces

Cons

• Odd handle position
• 1-year Warranty
• Short hose
• Can be heavy for long time use

Product rating: 9.2

Where can I buy Shark Rocket Corded Hand Vacuum (HV292)

Conclusion

It’s not easy to find an excellent handheld vacuum cleaner for cleaning thick carpets. Typically, upright, and bulky vacuums are mostly preferred when it comes to this type of task. However, we hope you’ll find the product for you among the 2023’s best handheld vacuum cleaners for high pile thick carpets we’ve gathered. Each brand and model comes with its own features, highlights, and drawbacks. Knowing what you need for a handheld vacuum will help you get the best product for you.

Getting a handheld vacuum cleaner offers many benefits, especially if you want to have a product that’s east-to-carry and you can use outdoors. If you already have an upright or a robot vacuum cleaner, getting a handheld vacuum won’t hurt. You have lots of options from the most affordable to more expensive premium products. All handheld vacuum cleaners are still cheaper than other vacuum types, anyway. You can surely find the product that fits your budget.

Are you now ready to get your very own handheld vacuum cleaner? Which of these handheld vacuum cleaners you think is best for you? Let us know why in the comment section below.

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