The optimal vacuum for vinyl plank floors incorporates gentle cleaning mechanisms to preserve the luster and shine of your vinyl flooring. Additionally, akin to a top-tier vacuum cleaner, it effectively eliminates pet dander, dust mites, and debris from your home.
These cutting-edge vacuum cleaners are equipped with soft-bristle brushes, non-marking rubber wheels, adjustable motor and suction capabilities, robust filtration technologies, and even intelligent programming for room mapping and cleaning via internet connectivity.
Feeling overwhelmed with information? No need to worry. We’ve provided comprehensive coverage of everything you need to know about the best vacuum for vinyl floors, from the functioning of vacuums for vinyl plank floors to essential considerations. Continue reading our buying guide to gain more insights.
The Best Vacuums for Luxury Vinyl Plank Flooring
#1 Shark SV1106 Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
It is suitable for cleaning various surfaces and boasts strong suction power. Easy to maneuver, it comes with a decent battery life.
Pros:
- Highly versatile – effective on both hardwood and carpets.
- Cordless design for enhanced maneuverability.
- Large dust cup capacity.
Cons:
- Extended charging time.
The Shark SV1106 is a lightweight upright vacuum cleaner designed for both carpets and hard floors. With a substantial 0.6-liter dust cup, it proves suitable for cleaning extensive areas, offering the added convenience of cordless operation for easy maneuvering throughout the house. The vacuum features advanced swivel steering and a powerful motorized brush for efficient dust and debris pickup. Despite its 4-hour charging time, the fully charged vacuum can run for up to 15 minutes, operating at a relatively low noise level. Its upright form factor allows for convenient storage without occupying excessive space, and the vacuum requires no assembly, making it ready for use once charged. Additionally, being bagless, the vacuum’s dust cup is easy to empty. The low noise levels make it a pet-friendly option, ensuring your pets won’t be unduly frightened during use.
#2 Eureka NEW200 All In One Corded Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner
It is highly maneuverable and simple to assemble, featuring swivel steering for quick navigation and the ability to clean both dry and liquid spills.
Pros:
- Efficiently cleans both floors and carpets.
- Swivel steering for easy maneuvering.
- Easy to assemble.
Cons:
- Cord may limit cleaning range.
The Eureka NEW200 is a robust wet and dry vacuum cleaner with strong suction power and a two-tank water storage system. With swivel steering, it effortlessly maneuvers around furniture and is lightweight for swift movement. The vacuum also incorporates a self-cleaning system, preparing it for the next cleaning session, and includes a storage tray for convenient stowing when not in use. While its 25-foot cord ensures easy maneuverability, it may restrict the cleaning range. The vacuum arrives with seven easily assembled parts, operates at a moderate noise level, and features fingertip controls for seamless transitions between cleaning hard floors and carpets. Additionally, it comes with a storage tray, drying caddy, tank cleaning brush, and brush roll cleaning tool. Weighing just 11.68 pounds, it is exceptionally easy to handle.
#3 Kenmore DS4020 Cordless Stick Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner
It features a battery life indicator, two modes, a sizable dust cup, and a runtime of 20 to 40 minutes.
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight.
- Different speed modes to choose from.
- Has a battery life indicator.
Cons:
- Long charging time.
The Kenmore DS4020 is a cordless stick vacuum powered by a 2200mAh Lithium-ion battery, providing up to 40 minutes of runtime on eco mode before requiring a recharge. In high mode, the runtime is approximately 20 minutes, still sufficient for deep cleaning. Weighing less than 5 pounds, it is remarkably lightweight, and users can choose from two speed settings to control suction power. However, the 4-hour charging time may be considered lengthy by some.
This cordless vacuum ensures easy maneuverability and convenient storage with its upright form factor. Equipped with a HEPA filter capturing up to 99.97% of dirt and emitting clean air, the vacuum also features colorful LED lights indicating remaining battery life and motor speed level accurately.
#4 Bissell 81L2A PowerEdge Vacuum Cleaner
It is lightweight and boasts a powerful suction force for effectively picking up pet dander and debris. The vacuum is easy to empty and assemble.
Pros:
- Powerful suction force.
- Compact size allows for easy storage.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Cons:
- Short 20-ft cord.
The Bissell 81L2A is a dependable hardwood vacuum cleaner designed to efficiently tackle dirt and debris, especially on hardwood floors when used correctly. Its V-shaped foot is ideal for cleaning edges and corners, featuring rubber squeegees perfect for collecting pet hair and messes. With an 11.35-inch cleaning path width, it proves efficient in cleaning large spaces. Weighing only 7.5 pounds, the 81L2A is lightweight and versatile, equipped with swivel steering for effortless maneuverability. Its only drawback is the short 20-ft cord, similar to the limitation found in our Bissell PowerEdge pet hardwood floor bagless cleaner review.
This vacuum exhibits substantial suction power, effectively capturing pet hair, dirt, dust, food particles, and even sand. Empting it is a breeze—users only need to press the release button, pull out the plastic dirty cup, and dispose of the collected debris into a trash can. Ideal for tile floors, it is easy to assemble despite arriving in parts. Additionally, it operates at a reasonable noise level, and its compact size ensures minimal storage space requirements. The compact design aligns with the features highlighted in our Bissell pet hair eraser lithium-ion handheld cordless vacuum review.
#5 Nequare S181 Stick Vacuum Cleaner
It can be utilized for floor cleaning or transformed into a handheld cleaner for surfaces and various household items.
Pros:
- Efficient filtering system.
- Filtration components are easy to wash.
- Large capacity dust cup.
Cons:
- Not suitable for cleaning wet surfaces or spills.
The Nequare S181 is a highly potent vacuum cleaner designed for users seeking to clean pet hair, dirt, debris, dust, and cat litter from a diverse range of surfaces. It stands independently for convenient storage when not in use and features an intricate dual-HEPA filtration system that ensures the emission of clean air. Equipped with LED lights on its brush head, it facilitates visibility and vacuuming in dimly lit areas and corners of the house. Additionally, its filtration components are easily washable. However, it is not designed for cleaning wet surfaces or spills.
Weighing a mere 3 pounds, this vacuum cleaner is exceptionally lightweight and can swiftly convert into a handheld cleaner for tasks like car cleaning, sofa cleaning, and other household items. This versatility is further enhanced by its large 1.2-liter dust bin cup, allowing users to undertake extensive cleaning before requiring emptying. Included in the package are accessories such as a crevice nozzle for cleaning narrow and hard-to-reach areas, a dusting brush, and a mini cleaning brush to streamline the entire cleaning process.
#6 Tineco iFloor Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner
It is suitable for users dealing with dirt and spills, offering a self-cleaning function, decent run time, and quiet operation.
Pros:
- Quiet operation.
- Handles both wet and dry messes.
- Self-cleaning function.
Cons:
- Tanks may need frequent emptying when cleaning large spaces.
The Tineco iFloor cordless vacuum cleaner is an excellent choice for users who prefer unrestricted movement without the constraint of a cord. It effectively addresses a variety of hard surfaces, featuring a two-tank system that separates dirty and clean water for efficient handling of both wet and dry messes. With a potent suction force, it efficiently vacuums liquid and debris without excessive noise. However, users may find it necessary to empty the tanks multiple times when cleaning a larger house.
After vacuuming, the manufacturer recommends activating the self-cleaning mode to keep the device ready for subsequent use. With a runtime of up to 22 minutes, users can easily cover substantial spaces before the battery needs recharging. The vacuum includes a 0.55-liter tank for clean water and a 0.4-liter tank for dirty water. To address stubborn floor stains, it can be switched to spot mode for a temporary boost in suction power. For convenient storage, the vacuum cleaner comes with a docking station that also serves as a charging station. If your home features a fireplace, consider getting the best ash vacuum designed for picking up delicate ash.
Beginner’s Guide to Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors
What is a Vacuum for Vinyl Plank Floors?
Finding the most suitable vacuum for luxury vinyl plank floors can pose a challenge. Luxury vinyl plank floors, crafted from synthetic wood and durable plastics, are resilient but susceptible to damage. While heavy vacuums with beater bars and hard brush rolls effectively remove particles, they may also leave scratches on the vinyl surface.
In essence, vacuums designed for vinyl plank floors incorporate gentle cleaning mechanisms to ensure thorough cleaning without causing scratches. However, maintaining the floor’s pristine condition requires adhering to a regular vacuuming schedule.
These vacuums are well-suited for bare floors rather than thick pile carpeting. Alternatively, you may consider high-end vacuums that also function as mops, offering a robust solution for wet and dry hard floor cleaning. An adjustable suction power feature is advantageous for seamless transitions between carpeted surfaces and luxury vinyl plank flooring. However, if you have concrete floors, a high-end vacuum specifically designed for concrete flooring would be more suitable.
Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors vs Other Vacuum Cleaners
Traditional vacuums, well-suited for carpet cleaning, may not be the optimal choice for vinyl plank floors. To safeguard the floor from damage, especially scratches, it’s advisable to opt for a more delicate cleaning solution, such as the best vacuum without a beater bar. Vinyl flooring is a popular choice among homeowners due to its durability, toughness, and easy maintenance over the years. However, it is susceptible to scratches caused by sharp objects and fine particles like sand.
While the best vacuum for shag carpet typically incorporates a brush roll for deep cleaning, this feature should be avoided on vinyl floors. The thick bristles and high speeds of conventional brush rolls can strip the vinyl surface of its natural shine, resulting in visible scratches and marks over time. Some vacuums, however, come equipped with gentle brush rolls that rotate at slower speeds, making them ideal for use on sensitive flooring.
In terms of design, the vacuum should be ergonomically built with swivel steering for effortless maneuverability. Ideally, a lightweight vacuum with a long cord or a versatile machine that easily converts from a super-light cleaner to a portable handheld vacuum is preferable. For those seeking advanced options, there are hi-tech robotic vacuums available that intelligently map your room and can be operated through your smartphone.
How Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors Work
The fundamental technology employed in the best vacuums for vinyl floors is akin to that of any other vacuum. Utilizing the motor’s suction power, the vacuum generates negative pressure to draw in air, along with other small dirt particles, directing them into a bag or a canister. It’s important to note that vinyl floors don’t necessitate robust suction power as required by carpeted surfaces. Ideally, starting at the lowest power level and adjusting as needed is recommended.
These vacuums incorporate an exhaust port that expels the collected air on the opposite end. To prevent the escape of fine particles, most vacuums are equipped with at least one robust filtration system, such as the HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Arresting) filter. HEPA filters are crucial, especially if any family member has asthma or is allergic to dust or pet hairs, as they trap even the minutest particles, ensuring the expelled air is safe to breathe.
In contemporary vacuums, many feature swivel steering, allowing easy maneuverability in hard-to-reach places. Combined with non-marking rubber wheels, these vacuums can glide across vinyl floors without causing scratches or marks.
To add the finishing touches, the best vacuums for luxury vinyl floors often come equipped with specialized tools, such as an innovative wand and a crevice tool, designed to effectively remove dirt from challenging areas like upholstered furniture and cracks in the baseboards. The narrow opening of these tools creates added pressure, making them particularly adept at tackling stubborn dirt adhered to the adhesive strips where two vinyl planks meet.
Why You Should Buy a Vacuum for Vinyl Plank Floors
Vinyl floors stand apart from regular floorings, and despite their resilience, using just any ordinary vacuum cleaner can be detrimental. To maintain the pristine appearance of your vinyl flooring, it’s essential to employ a vacuum specifically designed for this task, ensuring a clean without the concern of leaving scratches and dents.
Let’s delve into the reasons why investing in such vacuums is beneficial and explore situations where it might be advisable to refrain from making this purchase.
Are Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors Worth Buying?
You Own Vinyl Plank Floors: It’s evident; selecting an appropriate vacuum with a gentle cleaning mechanism is crucial to safeguard your flooring from potential damage. Vacuums designed for vinyl plank floors typically feature soft brush rolls, rubber wheels for added sensitivity, adjustable cleaning modes, and robust filtration systems.
You Seek an Upgrade From Your Standard Vacuum: If you’re in search of more advanced features beyond what a standard vacuum provides, such as intuitive robotic cleaning, highly efficient accessories, and versatile convertible machines, it’s worthwhile to consider upgrading to a vacuum designed for vinyl plank floors.
Why a Vacuum for Vinyl Plank Floors May Not Be for You
You Lack Vinyl Plank Floors: If your flooring does not consist of vinyl planks, a standard vacuum should suffice for your basic cleaning needs.
You Prefer Broom and Mop Cleaning for Vinyl Floors: Not everyone feels at ease using a vacuum cleaner on delicate surfaces like vinyl. Improper operation can lead to loss of shine and scratches over time. In such cases, opting for traditional cleaning tools like a broom and mop is a safer alternative.
How Long Will a Vacuum for Vinyl Plank Floor Last?
These days, with vacuum cleaners being predominantly technology-driven and featuring robust designs for enhanced efficiency, their lifespan has significantly increased. A vacuum designed for vinyl planks can typically endure for a decade or more. By implementing proper care and maintenance practices, it is even possible to extend its lifespan by several additional years.
To enhance the longevity of your vacuum, it’s crucial to regularly replace the filter. If your vacuum is equipped with a reusable filter, be sure to wash it thoroughly to maintain optimal suction power. Empty the dirt and debris container before it reaches full capacity, as an overly filled bag can hinder maneuverability. Additionally, periodic cleaning of the motorized dusting brush and checking the hose for any clogs will ensure that your vacuum consistently operates at its peak performance.
How to Choose a Vacuum for Vinyl Plank Floors
Now that you’re aware that vacuums designed for vinyl flooring are more suitable for cleaning delicate surfaces and offer a gentler approach compared to standard vacuums, it’s essential to take certain factors into consideration before deciding on a purchase.
Best Vacuum for Vinyl Plank Floors Key Factors to Consider
1. Which Vacuum Build Do You Prefer?
The three most suitable vacuum designs for vinyl plank floors include upright, stick, and robotic vacuums.
Upright vacuums, resembling the traditional standing design found in most standard vacuums, are versatile and effective for vinyl floors. They cover a wide cleaning area, can incorporate special features like soft brush rolls and adjustable suction levels, and have a compact design for easy storage. While powerful, they are generally heavy, requiring careful operation to avoid scratches on sensitive vinyl floors.
Stick vacuum cleaners, similar to upright versions but ultra-compact and lightweight, are ideal for vinyl flooring. Their streamlined design lacks heavy motors and excessive accessories that could damage the vinyl surface. Additionally, they can be easily converted into handheld vacuum cleaners. Canister vacuums, a form of handheld vacuums with larger dust bins, offer convenience in reaching hard-to-access areas compared to upright vacuums.
Robot vacuums, equipped with intelligent programming and smartphone control, operate automatically based on scheduled timings and return to the charging dock when the batteries are depleted. They are suitable for vinyl floors, providing the right suction power for effective cleaning without causing damage. Their low-profile design allows them to navigate hard-to-reach areas under furniture and beds.
If your home has vinyl flooring throughout, stick or robotic vacuum cleaners are recommended. For households with various surfaces like carpets, hardwood, tiles, and vinyl, a versatile multi-purpose vacuum like the upright design may be preferable.
2. How Heavy is the Vacuum?
If you plan to vacuum your vinyl floors daily to maintain their cleanliness, the weight of your vinyl floor cleaner becomes a significant consideration. For instance, if your house has multiple floors, portability becomes crucial for carrying the cleaner up and down the stairs. Robotic and stick vacuum cleaners are excellent choices for their portability.
However, opting for these lightweight options may mean sacrificing advanced tools and features such as HEPA filtration and adjustable suction power levels. If you have a smaller home or prioritize other features over portability, slightly heavier upright models may be more suitable.
3. Is the Vacuum Corded or Cordless?
Both corded and cordless vacuum cleaners have their advantages, so it’s essential to consider your home’s structure and the amount of furniture you have.
A corded vacuum is an ideal choice for homes with well-spaced furniture and few inaccessible areas. However, the cords should be sufficiently long for convenient cleaning, eliminating the need to switch between multiple power outlets. If maneuverability is a concern, you might want to explore the best corded stick vacuum options as well.
On the other hand, a cordless model can be quickly and easily charged before each vacuuming session. Its lightweight design allows for easy handling and maneuvering in hard-to-reach areas. For pet owners dealing with fur between furniture and in crevices, a cordless design, like the best stick vacuum for pet hair, could be a fitting choice due to its convenient maneuverability.
Keep in mind that corded cleaners generally offer more powerful suction than cordless ones, so exercise extra caution when vacuuming luxury vinyl plank flooring.
4. What’s the Vacuum’s Dust Bin Capacity?
While cleaning vinyl or any other type of floors, you’re likely to accumulate a significant amount of dust particles, debris, and pet hairs (if you have pets). It’s important to consider the size of the dustbin and its capacity before requiring manual emptying.
For those with larger homes and extensive floor space to cover, opting for an upright vacuum cleaner for vinyl plank floors with a higher dust cup capacity is advisable. This choice will help minimize the frequency of trips to the trash bin. Conversely, smaller homes can efficiently benefit from stick vacuum cleaners or robotic vacuums, given their minimal dustbin capacity.
5. What’s Your Budget?
Currently, vacuum cleaners are available with impressive designs, functionalities, and advanced cleaning technologies, spanning a price range of $100 to $1500. When making your decision, it’s crucial to prioritize quality, advanced features, and, most importantly, the type of flooring in your home.
Given that vacuums designed for vinyl plank floors require a gentler approach to cleaning, they incorporate special features such as rubber wheels, adjustable suction power settings, robust HEPA filtration, and innovative accessories. Typically, these specialized vacuums can be found in the price range starting from $500.
