Best HEPA Vacuum Cleaners for 2021 Reviewed | Are They Worth it? Find Out Here

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The best HEPA vacuum cleaners are excellent and effective tools for removing dirt, dust, and debris from your home. When you use a vacuum, the suction can blast dust and allergens into the air, which is ironic if you have allergies. This dust in the air can cause health problems, congestion, and breathing difficulties.

If you have allergies, having a vacuum that does not distribute allergens in the air is critical. A bagged vacuum can help prevent the spread of tiny material, but a HEPA filter is particularly important since it can collect 99.97 percent of particles with a diameter of 0.3 microns. 

It also includes a wide range of particles that might trigger allergies, such as dust, dirt, or pollen. Bagless vacuums with a HEPA filter can also help in this regard, but keep in mind that not all of these appliances are entirely sealed systems.

What is a HEPA Filter, and how does it work?

HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Arresting, for starters. It captures and holds airborne particles, preventing them from recirculating. HEPA filters catch particles as they pass through by using interwoven glass fibers twisted and positioned in numerous directions. HEPA vacuum filters can capture 99.97 percent of particles with a diameter of.3 microns.

What exactly is a HEPA vacuum cleaner?

A HEPA vacuum cleaner is one that has a HEPA filter that traps 99.97 percent of particles. 3 microns and up are considered large. Because of this filtration size, most dust, pollen, and pet dander will be trapped in a HEPA filter rather than aggravate your allergies.

You can add HEPA vacuum bags to the vacuums to collect even more dust, and they include allergy-friendly features that traditional vacuums lack.

Allergies Can Be Excruciating

If you have allergies, there is a chance you are familiar with the discomfort caused by pollen, dust, and pet dander. Allergies are a seasonal annoyance for some people, but for others, they are a life or death situation. Allergens can trigger severe asthma attacks and exacerbate other health problems.

Allergy sufferers looking for healthier air in their homes will benefit from HEPA filtered vacuum cleaners. These vacuums collect dirt and allergens while circulating cleaner air throughout your home. 

Fortunately, there are many different types of HEPA filtered vacuums to choose from, and we’ve ranked the best HEPA vacuums for 2021 to help you narrow down your options.

Recommended for You: Best HEPA Vacuums for Allergies

#1 Shark LA502 Rotator Lift-Away ADV HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

The Shark LA502 Rotator Lift-Away ADV DuoClean PowerFins Upright Vacuum Cleaner, as its name suggests, includes numerous cleaning technologies that improve cleaning and simplify maintenance.

DuoClean PowerFins 

The Shark LA502 Rotator’s main cleaner head has a pair of distinct brush rolls that work together to optimize cleaning. The soft brushroll is designed to pick up dust, crumbs, cat litter, and other similar dirt from bare floors and even carpeted areas. 

On the other hand, the PowerFins technology-based second brush roll ensures continuous contact with the floor, regardless of its type, and improved vacuuming, particularly for pet and human hair pickup. The Shark LA502 Rotator has a self-cleaning brush roll that prevents hair wrap and makes maintenance easier.

Lift-Away Technology

You can disconnect the detachable cleaning pod of the Lift-Away Shark LA502 Rotator from the main cleaner head. The Lift-Away pod, when used with the cleaning hose and wand, allows the user to clean areas that are difficult to reach with traditional upright vacuums, such as stairs and other high surfaces such as bookcases, sofas, pet beds, upholstery, and so on.

Complete Seal Technology for Anti-Allergen Protection

The entire Shark LA502 Rotator is built to prevent vacuumed air from being returned to the cleaned area without first being filtered.

Useful Swivel Steering

It includes a swivel steering mechanism to increase the vacuum’s versatility and movement. This vacuum can swivel as it moves across your floors.

You can more easily turn and adjust the vacuum by swiveling it. It will be much easier for you to access spaces and areas that require more accuracy and easiness in this manner.

You won’t need to pick up the vacuum to shift the direction, unlike with many other vacuums. Instead, simply swivel the handle, and the vacuum will swivel with it. All of this adds up to a vacuuming experience that is considerably easier and more enjoyable.

Product Specifications:

• Dimensions: 29″ x 14.25″ x 13.25″
• Item Weight: 20.9 lbs
• Cord Length: 30 feet
• Manufacturer: SharkNinja
• Item Model Number: LA502
• Specific Uses For Product: Hard floor, Carpet, Dual action
• Form Factor: Upright
• Filter Type: HEPA
• LED Lights: Yes

Pros:

• It is suitable for use on bare floors, rugs, and carpets.
• Brushroll hair tangling is a thing of the past, thanks to the excellent filtration system.
• Takes on pet and human hair with ease.
• It’s simple to put together and use.
• It is light in comparison to other uprights.
• LED lights aid in the illumination of gloomy areas.
• It’s simple to go past barriers.

Cons:

• For vacuuming large spaces, a 30-foot power cord would be preferable.
• The brushroll stops operating once you disconnect the pod because the lift-away mechanism is not powered.

Where to buy Shark LA502 Rotator Lift-Away ADV HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

See Detailed Review for Shark LA502 Rotator Lift-Away HEPA Vacuum

#2 Shark Rocket Pet Pro with MultiFlex IZ163H Vacuum

The Shark Rocket Pet Pro with MultiFlex IZ163H is a powerful cordless stick vacuum with a light and portable design. It was created with pets in mind, and it readily picks up pet hair on all surfaces, with its self-cleaning brush roll removing hair as you clean. 

While it cleans little and large debris exceptionally effectively from bare floors, it has more difficulty with smaller particles on the carpet, yet it still performs an excellent job on these surfaces overall. This vacuum is also quite maneuverable, making it simple to clean under tables or car seats.

Recurring costs are cheap because it’s relatively straightforward to maintain, and as long as each of its pieces is cleaned according to their unique maintenance demands. However, it has a small dirt bin that requires frequent emptying, and some users may find the tools and brushes included to be limited.

Efficiency of Filtration

Anyone in your family, including those with allergies, can use the Shark Rocket Pet Pro. It has Shark’s anti-allergen technology, which traps particles within the vacuum. The unit is completely sealed, preventing allergens from re-entering the room, and a HEPA filter cleans the vented air.

99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns remain trapped in the vacuum after vacuuming with these methods.

Accessories

The vacuum comes with only two attachments from the manufacturer. The pet multi-tool and the crevice nozzle are the items in question. You can purchase additional attachments, such as an under-appliance wand, a pet multi-tool, a little powered brush, and a self-cleaning mini motor brush. 

Product Specifications:

• Capacity: 0.1 gal
• Product Line: Shark Rocket Pet Pro
• Wattage: 181 Watts
• Filter Type: Foam, Felt, HEPA
• Battery Type: Rechargeable batteries
• Brand: Shark
• Assembled Product Weight: 46.1 in

Pros:

• The vacuum has excellent suction and cleans effectively. It works well on both bare surfaces and carpet with a low pile.
• The vacuum is safe, especially for allergy patients, thanks to the anti-allergen technology.
• You can reach every aspect of your home, both inside and out, with cordless cleaning.
• The headlights assist in revealing hidden dirt and debris
• The vacuum’s swiveling neck makes maneuvering it a snap.

Cons:

• The vacuum will not be able to stand on its own. For storage, you’ll need to lean it against something.
• The dustbin is insufficient for large and high-traffic households

Where to buy Shark Rocket Pet Pro with MultiFlex IZ163H Vacuum

#3 Tineco A11 Hero Stick HEPA Vacuum

For many homes, cordless stick vacuums have become a popular choice. Tineco is giving established corporations a run for their money as more and more people switch to these cleaning products. 

The Tineco A11 Hero and A11 Master are two of the most recent cordless stick variants. The Tineco Pure One line of high-end stick vacuums is also available. In this review, I’ll look at the Tineco A11 Hero’s versatility, features, and why you would want one for your house. I also discuss how it compares to the other two Tineco models I mentioned earlier.

Design

Although Tineco is a relatively unknown brand, its parent firm, Ecovacs, is not. Ecovacs has been operating for years and has competed with the big players in the robot vacuum business. The new Tineco cordless stick line appears to deliver the same promise: high-quality products that clean well.

Suction/Cleaning Power

The vacuum has a 450W motor that produces 120AW of suction power. That’s extremely impressive for a cordless stick. The A11 Hero’s cleaning powers are further enhanced by its 10″ broad motorized brush roll. 

The vacuum swirls and agitates the dirt in carpets, making it suited for both hard surfaces and carpeted floors. 

Product Specifications:

• Product Dimensions: 10.4 x 11.2 x 43.7 inches
• Weight: 5.5 lbs
• Suction power 120 AW
• Voltage: 22V 
• Wattage: 450W
• Battery Type: Lithium-ion
• Expected Charging Time: 3 hours
• Expected Run Time: maximum of 60 minutes  
• Filtration: Premotor + Post-motor HEPA
• Hand-Vac mode: Yes
• Complete Seal: Yes
• Dustbin Capacity: 20 oz or 0.6 liters
• Noise level: 71 db

Pros:

• Suction power is impressive, allowing you to effectively clean both bare and carpeted surfaces.
• Vacuuming of various floors with the multi-floor cleaning head
• Filtration is excellent.
• Converts from a stick vacuum to a handheld vacuum.
• Includes LED lights.
• The vacuum’s maneuverability is improved by the smooth pivot.
• It comes with a variety of handy tools and attachments.

Cons:

• Battery is not suitable for heavy duty cleaning

Where to buy Tineco A11 Hero Stick HEPA Vacuum

See Detailed Review for Tineco A11 Hero Stick HEPA Vacuum

#4 Kenmore HEPA Bagless Upright Vacuum

Kenmore, a top appliance brand for over a century, now provides a new level of performance with appliances that save time, provide convenience, and produce excellent results. Kenmore is the most acclaimed brand in the business, with everything from fast chilling drinks to laundry loads completed in less time.

Incredible Design

The design of this vacuum is the first thing you’ll notice about it. The design is stunning. On a purely aesthetic basis, this vacuum is stunning.

A lovely combination of green and silver. The design is clean and straightforward, highlighting all of the major buttons and functionality. A collection of visually appealing shapes. All of these aesthetic characteristics combine to make a vacuum that looks fantastic.

Of course, you’re not buying a vacuum for its looks. Rather, you’re buying a vacuum cleaner for its cleaning powers. However, the vacuum’s design plays a significant role in providing you with these skills.

Easy to Use

This vacuum is no exception. You can easily move this vacuum around because it weighs a little under 14 pounds. This vacuum can be moved into both small, tight rooms and broad, open regions.

This vacuum also has a swivel steering feature to go along with it. You can move the vacuum cleaner more easily with this swivel steering feature. All of these unique design aspects come together to produce a vacuuming experience that is pleasant, pleasurable, and effective.

Bagless

There is no bag in this vacuum, as the name implies. This vacuum, on the other hand, is fully bagless. Since this is the case, you should vacuum all of the dirt, dust, debris, and hair into a large container.

This bagless vacuum, however, takes a step further by including a superb HEPA-AllergenSeal System. The mechanism traps Around 99.7% of the dust and dander that enters the vacuum.

As a result, your environment contains far fewer allergies and contaminants. All of this is great if you have allergies or just want to freshen up the air in your home.

Recommended for You: Best Vacuum Cleaners With HEPA Filters

Product Specifications:

• Product Dimensions: 29.55 x 14.8 x 13.8 inches
• Item Weight: 14 lbs
• Capacity: 2 Liter
• Vacuum Type: Upright
• Cord Length: 30 feet
• Batteries Required: No
• Required Wattage: 1100 Watts
• Bag Type: Bagless
• Cleaning Path Width: 13 in.
• Filter Type: HEPA

Where to buy Kenmore HEPA Bagless Upright Vacuum

#5 Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max HEPA Vacuum

The Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max is a full-size corded upright bagless vacuum cleaner for homes with fur-shedding dogs and a variety of floor types. It also comes with features and attachments that make it easy to clean any surfaces above the floor.

The Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max  Vacuum has the following features:

Outstanding Moveability: With a little movement of the wrist, easily navigate around furniture and tight spaces to address concealed messes.

Advanced Motor Runs 3x Longer Than a Standard Motor: Hoover’s unique MAXLifeTM System provides powerful suction for longer periods of time with less maintenance.

Strong Cleaning Results on All Floor Surfaces: With the Brush Roll ON/OFF Switch, you can easily switch from carpet to hard flooring.

Allergens Are Attacked by Hepa Media Filtration: Allergy-causing particles are collected in 99% of cases, preventing them from reentering the air you breathe.

Extra Large Dirt Cup Capacity: A dirt cup that is simple to empty means you can spend more time cleaning and less time emptying.

Multi-function Pet Tools: Remove even the toughest pet hair and grime off furniture, pet beds, stairs, and other hard-to-reach areas.

Headlamps With High Intensity Leds: Easily notice concealed filth and pet hair in dimly lit areas (No dimmer switch)

Product Specifications:

• Dimensions: 13″ x 15″ x 44″
• Item Weight: 18 pounds
• Manufacturer: Hoover
• Vacuum Type: Upright
• Batteries Required: No
• Included Components: Nozzle, HEPA Filter, Crevice tool
• Dirt Cup Capacity: 1.42 Liters
• Cord Length: 40 feet

Pros:

• It has suction that is exceptionally strong.
• Overall cleaning performance was excellent.
• Bright headlights with a solid design
• Cleaning performance for pet hair is excellent.
• Exceptional edge cleaning results
• HEPA Filtration is quite effective.
• Comes with a warranty period of 5 years

Cons:

• There is no automatic cord rewind.
• If the hose is twisted, the clamps may not be able to hold it.

Where to buy Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max HEPA Vacuum

#6 Hoover MAXLife Pro Pet Swivel HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

The UH74220PC is the answer if you’re tired of having to make multiple passes to pick up little particles of rice or strands of hair. It includes a brush roll with enhanced action that loosens and lifts all types of floor pollutants before the powerful suction takes care of the rest.

The brush roll has an on/off switch, allowing you to clean bare floors without dispersing particles or creating ugly markings on your surfaces.

Durability Boosted by MaxLife

All Hoover models with the MaxLife technology are guaranteed to last longer and require fewer filter changes. Fine particles stay up and away from the fine mesh filters thanks to cyclonic suction action, generating less clogging and extending the filter’s lifespan by many months compared to other Hoover upright products.

Users report that they need to replace the filters every six to eight months on average, vs four to five months on non-MaxLife versions.

Seasonal and/or pet allergy sufferers can rejoice with this allergen-sealed filtration system. The UH74220PC has an allergen-sealed filtering technology that keeps dust, pollen, and dander contained within the dustbin.

Product Specifications:

• Swivel Steering: Yes
• Weight: 17 Pounds
• Dirt Cup Capacity: 1.5 Liters
• Cord Length: 30 Feet
• On/Off Brushroll: Yes
• Filtration Type: MaxLife System
• Above Floor Cleaning: Yes
• Cleaning Path: 12.5 inches
• Pet Friendly: Yes
• Floor Height Adjustment: Automatic
• Dimensions: 11.5 x 12.5 x 45 inches
• Battery Required: No

Pros:

• Excellent suction
• Excellent in removing pet hair at a reasonable price
• The pre-motor filter can be washed in water.
• Dust containers are simple to empty.
• On the brushroll, don’t use too much hair wrap.
• The pet turbo gadget performs admirably.

Cons:

• A little too loud
• Pushing on carpet can be challenging.
• Heavy/bulky
• Short and stiff hose
• Wand is too short

Where to buy Hoover MAXLife Pro Pet Swivel HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

#7 Dyson V& Allergy HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

Cleaning and dusting is no longer a tedious and time-consuming household duty. We offer a number of sophisticated technical solutions that can help to streamline the process and save time. One such name is the Dyson V7 Allergy, which is an advanced solution to our numerous modern-day cleaning problems.

A High-Performance Digital Motor

The Dyson V7 allergen vacuum cleaner boasts a powerful V7 digital motor that provides excellent suction on both hard and soft flooring. The vacuum cleaner can provide continuous suction for up to 30 minutes.

Filtration of the entire machine

Another notable feature of the Dyson V7 allergen cordless vacuum cleaner is the whole-machine HEPA filtration. The filter is reusable for life and aids in the capture of allergens and the expulsion of cleaner air.

The Dyson V7 allergen is a cordless, hassle-free, and incredibly useful vacuum cleaner. It is light in weight and can readily reach spots that are high above. It’s also quite adaptable, as it can be easily converted into a portable vacuum for cleaning tight spaces with only a single click.

Docking Station with Convenience

The Dyson V7 HEPA comes with a handy docking station that can be used for neat storage, machine recharging, and holding additional attachments.

Radial Cyclone Technology in Two Tiers

The 15 radial cyclones in the Dyson V7 HEPA cordless vacuum cleaners are divided into two tiers. These operate in tandem to improve airflow and collect small dust particles.

Cleaner Head with Direct Drive

The Dyson V7’s direct-drive cleaner head is fitted with nylon bristles that assist capture deep-down debris from carpets.

Product Specifications:

• Product Dimensions 49 x 8.2 x 9.8 inches
• Item Weight: 5.29 pounds
• Manufacturer: Dyson
• Vacuum Type: Stick
• Warranty Description: 2 year limited warranty.
• Batteries Required?: Yes
• Included Components: Batteries included

Pros:

• Excellent ergonomics
• Suitable for all types of floors
• The sanitary system, which includes an easy-to-empty feature
• Up to 30 minutes of fade-free suction

Cons:

• The dirt bin has a limited capacity.
• The run time could have been longer in MAX mode.

Where to buy Dyson V7 Allergy HEPA Vacuum Cleaner

#8 Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet HEPA Vacuum

Hoover, the vacuum brand that has become a word, produces a wide range of bagged and bagless vacuums, as well as handheld, handstick, and robot vacuums. It even produces a line of lithium-ion-powered cordless upright vacuums. For the most dedicated vacuum cleaner fans, there’s even a backpack vacuum that makes it look like you’re using a jetpack!

Importantly, the motorized powered head of the Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet Cordless Upright Vacuum is said to give an excellent clean and has a runtime of up to 35 minutes. In addition, it has a motorized powerhead and bagless multi-cyclonic technology.

Another pet-specific product from Hoover is this cordless vacuum. It’s a little bigger than Shark’s version, but it’s more adaptable. The machine has an antibacterial brush roll, a pet odor filter, and three-speed settings, making it easier to clean up after your furry family members. Pet hair, crumbs, and grime from all types of floors are easily removed with a vacuum.

Product Specifications:

• Dimensions (HxWxD): 44.5″ x 11″ x 9.5 Inches”
• Weight: 8.6 Pounds
• Capacity: 1 Liter
• Required Wattage: 210 watts
• Number of Speeds: 3
• Bag Type: Bagless
• Cleaning Path Width: 11 in.
• Filter Type: Standard
• Required Amperage: 11 Amps
• Hose Length: 0 Feet
• Power Source: Battery
• Battery: 1 Lithium Ion, Required, Included

Where to buy Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet HEPA Vacuum

#9 Vacmaster Pro 8 Gallon HEPA Vacuum

Vacmaster has earned a reputation as a leader in the vacuum business after almost two decades of producing high-quality shop vacuums. As a result, it’s no surprise that Vacmaster is the brand of choice for both casual users and professionals.

The 8-Gallon Industrial HEPA Certified Wet/Dry Vac is a popular shop vacuum from Vacmaster. This shop vac has a lasting dual-stage motor that provides over 100 inches of water lift, making it ideal for usage in demanding at-home workshops or commercial settings. 

The shop vac also features a quadruple HEPA filtration system, making it simple to maintain a clean work environment.

The shop vac also includes a liquid-extraction capability, and the tank’s vast capacity enables large work areas. The Vacmaster Industrial shop vac has a long hose and seven accessories, including a power tool adapter and a horsehair brush, to provide a wide range of cleaning possibilities. In addition, the long power cord has a lit plug for your convenience and safety.

Industrial-Strength Motor

This vacuum will last a long time and provide significant suction with a staggering 106 inches of water lift and airflow of up to 125 cubic feet per minute thanks to its two-stage motor.

Unlike shop vacs with a single-stage motor, the double-insulated Vacmaster shop vac gradually raises its speed, resulting in a reasonable noise output. As an added benefit, this motor arrangement reduces stress on the unit, which can contribute to premature failure.

Wet and Dry Tank

Because of the tank’s 8-gallon size, you can accomplish a lot of cleaning without stopping. The HEPA-rated collection bag is fastened with a sealing flap to keep sawdust, dirt, and other waste from escaping, and the tank is firmly secured owing to a pair of locking latches.

You may be confronted with liquid spills at times, therefore there’s no need to get a mop. This shop vac can handle both dry and wet spills. Simply cover the filter cage with the provided foam filter sleeve to use the wet-vacuuming feature.

Product Specifications:

• Item Weight: ‎19.4 pounds
• Dimensions: ‎12 x 19 x 12 inches
• Style: ‎HEPA 8 Gallon Vac
• Material: ‎Polypropylene
• Power Source: ‎Corded Electric
• Voltage: 120V
• Hose Length: ‎10 Feet
• Number of Handles: ‎1
• Special Features: ‎HEPA filter

Where to buy VacMaster Pro 8 Gallon Vacuum

HEPA Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide

Vacuums aren’t all made equal. Some may be effective at removing dirt and pet hair from carpets while also reintroducing the most harmful particles, fine particles, into the air you breathe. 

And, with so many options on the market for HEPA vacuum cleaners, how can you know which one is the best fit for you? Our HEPA Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guides help you cut through the clutter and narrow down your options.

When looking for a vacuum cleaner, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Filtration with HEPA

Vacuum Cleaners vs. HEPA FiltrationSince filtration is such an important component of what makes a vacuum cleaner genuinely… healthy, which should you choose? Vacuum cleaners with a basic filter, such as foam or polypropylene, or no filter at all, merely disperse allergens in the air you breathe by collecting up particles that have collected in the carpet or on smooth surfaces and redistributing them. 

If you have allergies, you’ll need a vacuum cleaner with an S-Class or HEPA filter that passes the strict HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) requirements in the United States.

Bagged vs. Bagless Vacuums

Bagless vacuum cleaners don’t have bags to clog, so you won’t have to worry about the cost of replacing them. Vacuum cleaners with no bags collect dust in a plastic bin to be disposed of. 

If you have allergies or asthma, we recommend that you have someone else empty the dust bin for you as much as possible.

Air Flow

Meanwhile, air flow is the force generated by moving air that picks up dirt and transfers it into a bag or dust container. It is usually measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). The CFM rates of better vacuum cleaners are higher, and they are generally more expensive. 

The term “airwatts” is also a flow measurement, but Dyson prefers to use it. Because air watts aren’t a universal unit of measurement, they’re best used when comparing Dyson models.

Performance

Getting your hands on the vacuum cleaner and seeing it in action is the greatest method to test ergonomics and performance. 

In general, all of our vacuums have strong suction, and while some are better suited for specific types of flooring, they are all highly efficient cleaning equipment when used in conjunction with the vacuum’s intended purpose.

Power

First, the amount of energy used by the vacuum cleaner is measured in amps or watts. If you’re looking for a vacuum cleaner, don’t base your decision on the amperage rating. Moreover, the amount of electricity used by the motor has nothing to do with the vacuum’s suction power. 

The suction power is determined by the airflow and is measured in CFM or air watts, as in the case of Dyson. Furthermore, certain vacuum cleaners feature extremely powerful brushrolls. The Miele S7 and the Soniclean uprights are the most powerful uprights we offer, almost feeling self-propelled on carpet with the brush roll activated!

To Sum it Up

You now know which HEPA vacuum cleaners are best for you and your home. In conclusion, the vacuums on this list will significantly improve air quality, whether you need to remove dust from your carpets or simply want a powerful HEPA vacuum that cleans carpets and floors.