Are you looking for a vacuum that can help keep your sneezing fits to a minimum? What about one that can improve the air quality as you clean? If so, the best bagged vacuum cleaner may be the machine you’re looking for.
Bagged vacuums have been around for ages. They first appeared on the market in the 1920s and completely revolutionized the way homeowners clean. These days, the popularity of bagless systems has put those traditional machines on the back burner. However, that doesn’t mean that they are any less effective at cleaning your home. In fact, bagged vacuum cleaners are the go-to for allergy suffers because they do a much better job of keeping dust contained.
Imagine being able to get rid of all those allergens without going into a coughing fit every few minutes. Right now, you’re probably dealing with clouds of airborne dust that do nothing but make it harder to breathe. With a top rated bagged vacuum, you won’t even have to touch all that dirt you pick up from your floors.
We’ve taken a look at several bagged vacuum cleaners the industry has to offer. To help you choose a system you won’t regret, here’s a list of some of the very best.
Comparing the Top 3 Bagged Vacuum Cleaners
Here’s a short comparison of the top 3 best vacuum cleaners with bag. These are truly cream of the crop. Also, stay with us to see a much detailed comparison chart of all the 18 bagged vacuums at the end of this post.
Best Bagged Vacuum Cleaner Reviews (Updated List)
1. Miele Compact C2 Electro – Best Overall
- Air clean sealed system. Nominal power consumption in W : 1,100
You might have not heard of Miele before, but this brand is a highly respected manufacturer of canister vacuums. The Compact C2 model is a powerful little machine that can take care of any surface in your home.
Technology:
Powering this bagged vacuum cleaner is Miele’s Vortex motor. It’s incredibly powerful and features adjustable suction settings. With a turn of a knob, you can adjust the motor to work with tough carpets and delicate draperies. There’s even a quiet mode to reduce noise levels.
Performance:
The vacuum performs well across the board. It comes with a few handy attachments. There’s a carpet cleaning head, which features a powered beater brush. To take care of your smooth floors, there’s also a wide cleaning head that focuses on providing a strong seal.
Specs:
- Canister vacuum
- Sealed air system
- HEPA filtration
- 3.5-liter bag
- 20-foot cord
- Adjustable suction power
- Powered carpet attachment
- Keeps allergens contained
- Comes with several accessory attachments
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Prone to tipping over while in use
Conclusion:
All in all, you can’t go wrong with this vacuum. It’s versatile enough to take care of most of your cleaning tasks. Thanks to its sealed air system, you can tackle any job without having to worry about making dust airborne.
2. Soniclean Soft SFC-7000 – Best Upright Bagged Vacuum
- Developed with the leading global manufacturer of premium carpet. Designed to easily and properly clean all types of soft style carpets with pile lengths less than 1 inch.
Looking for a bagged vacuum equipped with some high-tech cleaning technology? Check out this option from Soniclean.
Technology:
This vacuum doesn’t just use a beater bar. It also has a sonic vibration motor! This feature goes above and beyond to remove even the most stubborn dirt from your carpet. Over 200 vibrations a second ensure that as much dust is removed between your carpet fibers as possible.
Performance:
While the sonic vibration system is a nice touch, the vacuum does a fine job even when the motor is turned off. You can use this machine on smooth floors as well. It’s quieter in this mode and provides strong suction to wipe tile or wood clean.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Soft-bristle brush
- Produces sonic vibrations
- HEPA filtration
- 35-foot cord
- Only weighs about 10 pounds
- Adjustable cleaning modes
- Jam protection
- Easy to maneuver
- Not great around edges and walls
Conclusion:
With its unique technology, the Soniclean vacuum is a machine worth considering.
3. Miele Complete C3 – Best Bagged Canister Vacuum
- FilterBag volume - 4.5 litres
Here’s another model from Miele. It’s best for those interested in keeping thick carpets dirt-free.
Technology:
The coolest feature of this vacuum is the Premium Powerbrush. Made for thick carpets, it has a powered brush to loosed dirt from high-pile carpets. That’s not all. When you transition to smooth floors, the suction power will change automatically to ensure that no damage occurs.
Performance:
You won’t be disappointed with this vacuum. It has manual suction adjustments and plenty of high-quality attachments. In addition to cleaning your floors, you can reach up high to take care of curtains, fan blades, and more.
Specs:
- Canister vacuum
- HEPA filter
- Automatic suction control
- HEPA filtration
- 22-foot cord
- Adjustable power settings
- Highly maneuverable
- Large bag capacity
- Sealed air system
- Heavier than other options
- High price tag
Conclusion:
While this product is recommended for homes with thick carpeting, it’s multi-purpose design makes it a worthy contender for any home.
4. Kenmore Elite 31150 – Upright Beltless Vacuum
- BAGGED UPRIGHT VACUUM: Remove pet hair, dust and more with this multifloor, multi-surface designed vacuum for use in your home, den, or kitchen with a wide sweeper path
Kenmore is an established brand that’s known for making some high-quality appliances. This vacuum is no different.
Technology:
To give you strong suction power, Kenmore has equipped this vacuum with a 3D Inducer motor. 3 separate motors are used to provide you with a noticeably deep clean. Pair those motors with the turbine-powered beater brush and you can tackle any floor.
Performance:
The vacuum does a fine job across the board. One particular feature worth mentioning is the infrared dirt sensor. It’ll turn on when the vacuum spots a particularly dirty area that you need to focus on.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Attachment hose
- Powerful 3D motor
- Triple HEPA filtration
- 35-foot cord
- Good for pet hair
- Dirt sensor
- Very powerful suction
- Adjustable cleaning height
- Comes with several attachments
- On the heavier side
- Louder than some other options
Conclusion:
You won’t be disappointed with this Kenmore vacuum. It’s powerful and has the necessary attachments to take care of multiple surfaces throughout your home.
5. Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS – Best Commercial Bagged Vacuum
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Easy to use at 9 pounds for transportation from room to room and up stairways
While this bagged vacuum is geared towards commercial use, it can be very beneficial for homeowners as well. It has a massive capacity and powerful suction.
Technology:
This vacuum uses disposable bags that you can easily load through the top of the bag compartment. In total, the bag can hold over 10 liters of dust! Thus, it’s ideal for large homes or offices.
Performance:
You can use this vacuum on any floor. The beater brush is relatively soft. However, it does not sacrifice efficiency. When you transition from carpet to smooth flooring, the vacuum will automatically adjust to provide the best suction possible.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Commercial cleaning machine
- Automatic floor adjustments
- Comes with 1-year warranty
- 35-foot cord
- Comfortable handle
- Good for getting under furniture
- Wide cleaning head
- Top-load bag
- No hose attachments
Conclusion:
Whether you have a large home or need to keep a commercial building clean, this vacuum cleaner has you covered.
6. Hoover WindTunnel UH30600 – Best for Above Floor Cleaning
- WINDTUNNEL 3 TECHNOLOGY: Creates channels of suction to lift and remove surface and deeply embedded dirt
Hoover is one of the biggest names in the vacuum industry. This upright bagged vacuum cleaner continues with the iconic Hoover design but adds some modern twists.
Technology:
This vacuum uses Hoover’s WindTunnel technology. Essentially, there are 3 channels of air. This helps to reduce scatter and help to keep things contained.
Performance:
The elegant-looking vacuum packs a powerful punch when it comes to performance. Thanks to the adjustable floor levels, you can clean on virtually any surface. Plus, there’s a detachable hose. When you factor in the telescoping wand, you can reach up to heights of 17 feet.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Detachable hose
- 7 floor height adjustments
- Comes with limited 2-year warranty
- HEPA filtration
- 30-foot cord
- Wide cleaning head
- Works on carpet and smooth floors
- Comes with several attachments
- Strong suction power
- Telescoping wand prone to collapsing during use
- Can be difficult to maneuver for some
Conclusion:
Hoover has done it again with the WindTunnel MAX. This vacuum offers great performance without the inflated price tag.
7. Bissell Zing 4122 – Best Lightweight Canister Vacuum with Bag
- Every BISSELL purchase helps save pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
The Bissel Zing is a compact bagged vacuum with a lot to offer. It’s designed with portability in mind, allowing you to clean high and low.
Technology:
While it might not have all the features of some other high-end models, this vacuum does the job just as well. It features a long hose with an extendable wand. Tack on one of the many attachments and you can take care of stairs, furniture, ceilings, and more.
Performance:
Overall, the vacuum does a decent job across the board. Problems can pop up once you start to fill up the bag, as it’s quite small to accommodate the compact design. But if you can overlook the small capacity, the vacuum will serve you well.
Specs:
- Canister vacuum
- Compact design
- 0.5-quart capacity
- 16.4-foot retractable cord
- Comes with 1-year limited warranty
- Weighs about 12.5 pounds
- Works on virtually any surface
- Many attachments included
- Independently powered brush head
- Small bag capacity
Conclusion:
Great for small jobs around the house, this compact vacuum can do a lot to keep your home pristine.
8. Metropolitan Vac ‘n’ Blo – Best Bagged Vacuum for Car Detailing
- 4.0 peak horsepower
Next up, we have the Vac ‘n’ Blo from Metropolitan. It’s a multi-purpose machine that you can use all around your property.
Technology:
This isn’t just a vacuum. As you might have guessed from the name, this machine does double-duty as a blower. You can use it to blast away leaves from your patio or clear dust from a workstation.
Performance:
Thanks to the 4 horsepower motor, this device doesn’t disappoint when it comes to power. Metropolitan includes 13 different attachments and a flexible hose. Use those attachments to get into every nook and cranny you need to.
Specs:
- Canister vacuum
- Steel construction
- 4 horsepower motor
- Reusable dust bag
- Comes with 1-year warranty
- 12-inch cord
- Very lightweight and compact
- Comes with 13 attachments
- Acts as a powered blower
- Durable build
- Not good for large cleaning jobs
- Short power cord
Conclusion:
While it can’t clean large surface areas, this vacuum is an excellent option for those who need to keep small rooms or vehicles clean.
9. Eureka Mighty Mite 3670G – Good for Carpets
- Dust cup capacity - 2.5 liters. Ideal for quick and efficient cleaning
Here’s another multifunctional bagged machine that can take on jobs inside and out.
Technology:
Like the previous vacuum, this model features a blower function. A separate blow port on the rear can be used to blast away dirt and debris. It’s very easy to use. All you have to do is move the hose.
Performance:
This isn’t the most powerful bagged vacuum out there. However, it does a fine job with small jobs. Thanks to its simple operation and durable build, you can take it anywhere.
Specs:
- Canister vacuum
- Rear blower port
- 2.5-liter capacity
- Comes with 1-year limited warranty
- 20-foot power cord
- Can be used as a leaf blower
- Weighs less than 13 pounds
- Fingertip controls
- Includes floor cleaning head
- Can be quite loud
- Hose is thin and prone to collapsing
Conclusion:
The Eureka vacuum is a worthy option if you’re looking for a compact vacuum cleaner that’s quick and easy to use.
10. Miele Dynamic U1 Maverick – Best Quiet Vacuum Cleaner
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Take one look at this vacuum and you can tell it means business. It’s packing plenty of power to take care of heavily-worn carpets.
Technology:
Like many of Miele’s other vacuums, this model features a sealed air system. The bag and filtration system are heavily contained to ensure that dust doesn’t become airborne as you clean.
Performance:
What stands out about this bagged vacuum is the strong beater brush. This particular model is designed with high-traffic carpets in mind. However, it’s still capable of working on smooth surfaces. Thanks to the automatic height adjustment system, you don’t even have to stop the vacuum as you transition to different floors.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Automatic surface adjustments
- Sealed air system
- Comes with 1-year limited warranty
- 39-foot power cord
- Very strong beater brush
- Adjustable power settings
- Sleek design
- Works well on smooth floors
- Swivel base
- Heavier than other vacuums
- Can be difficult to install bag
Conclusion:
Whether you have high-pile carpets or smooth tiles, this vacuum will keep them clean.
11. Sanitaire SC888K Commercial Upright Vacuum – Great Value
- Sanitaire Commercial Upright Vacuum, High Efficiency 7A Long Life Motor, With Allergen Filtration & Arm & Hammer Odor Fighter, 12Cleaning Path, 50' Cord
Don’t let the simple design of this vacuum fool you. It’s built to last while providing you with years of service.
Technology:
The great thing about this bagged upright vacuum is that it’s very easy to service. It has all of the basic components you would expect. However, most of them are replaceable, which ultimately prolongs the life of the machine.
Performance:
This is a no-frills vacuum. You’re not getting a detachable hose or a bevy of attachments to use. However, what you are getting is impressive suction. The motor moves air quickly, making cleaning a breeze. Pair that with the adjustable floor heights and you can take on any surface.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Commercial-grade machine
- Allergen filtration
- 6.1-quart capacity
- 50-foot power cord
- Easy to service
- Durable beater brush with replaceable bristles
- Durable construction
- 12-inch wide cleaning head
- No attachments or hose
- Can be too heavy for some
Conclusion:
Whether you decide to use this in an office or at your home, the bag vacuum will get the job done quickly and efficiently.
12. Bissell BigGreen BGCOMP9H – Best for Low Pile Carpets
- Choose between low and high suction power
This Bissell commercial canister vacuum is designed to take on big jobs without missing a beat. It features strong suction power and some versatile cleaning options.
Technology:
You don’t have to settle for one level of performance. This machine features a low and high power mode, allowing you to adjust its performance based on your surface. The included cleaning head also has height adjustments so that you can tackle carpets and smooth floors.
Performance:
This vacuum is a jack of all trades. Thanks to the large extendable wand, you can easily clean floors without hurting your back. Or, you can swap out the wide cleaning head for a smaller dusting brush or crevice tool to get into those hard-to-reach spaces.
Specs:
- Canister vacuum
- Commercial-grade machine
- 2 power modes
- 7.3-quart capacity
- 50-foot power cord
- Comes with 1-year warranty
- 3-stage filtration
- Adjustable cleaning heights
- Comes with telescoping wand and attachments
- Durable wheels
- No beater brush
- Wheel arrangement can make getting around corners tough
Conclusion:
Overall, the Bissell vacuum is a worthy contender. It might not have all the features as some premium bagged machines, but it’s flexible enough to be used anywhere.
13. ProVac CN Canister – Best Bag Vacuum for Optimal Capacity
- LARGE CAPACITY - Vacuum cleaner canister with 10-quart filter provides maximum cleaning ability and 3 times the size of standard upright vacuums to clean large messes
Need a machine that will take care of large jobs quickly? The ProTeam vacuum is worth considering. It’s designed for commercial applications like restaurants and stores. However, it’ll serve you well at home, too.
Technology:
Don’t expect to get all of the same features as you would with a residential machine. This model doesn’t have a beater brush or any fancy features like that. However, if that’s not a deal-breaker, you will appreciate the powerful motor and strong suction power.
Performance:
Thanks to the robust motor, this machine is a force to be reckoned with. It comes with a wide range of accessories that you can swap out in seconds. Use them to clean every surface in your home. Because the vacuum doesn’t have belts or moving brushes, it’s tough enough to last.
Specs:
- Canister vacuum
- Advanced air filtration
- 10-quart capacity
- 50-foot power cord
- Comes with 3-year warranty
- Only 66 decibels
- Comes with several attachments
- Effectively keeps dust contained
- Only weighs about 12 pounds
- No beater brush for carpets
Conclusion:
Even though it doesn’t have all of those traditional vacuum features, that doesn’t mean that this vacuum won’t clean your space efficiently. It’s a powerful machine that’s made for serious cleaning jobs.
14. Panasonic MC-UG223 – Superior Quality with Powerful Suction
- Lightweight upright 12 amp motor system, -inchbag-inch system
With its old-school design, it’s easy to mistake this Panasonic vacuum as a model from yesteryear. However, it’s packing plenty of power to compete with some of the most powerful vacs with bag on the market.
Technology:
A 12-amp motor is used to provide strong suction power. It has a belt-driven beater brush as well. The only downside of this machine is that you can’t turn the brush off. Thus, it’s not good for hardwood or smooth tile floors.
Performance:
On carpets, this vacuum cleaner has a lot to offer. It’s very efficient and does a fine job of loosening dirt that’s deep within your carpet fibers. There are multiple height adjustments, so you can fine-tune the cleaning performance to meet your needs.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Edge cleaning feature
- 12-amp motor
- 25-foot power cord
- Comes with 1-year limited warranty
- 14-inch wide cleaning head
- Detachable cleaning hose
- Basic attachments included
- Relatively lightweight
- Integrated light
- Not good for smooth floors
Conclusion:
Panasonic isn’t really known for creating vacuums. However, this lesser-known model comes highly recommended thanks to its simple yet effective performance.
15. Sebo 9587AM Automatic – Best Durable Bagged Vacuum
- 40-foot cord and 3 on-board full-size tools
Sebo might not be the most well-known brand out there, but this vacuum has a solid reputation. It offers superior air filtration and is even deemed hospital-grade thanks to its S-class filtration.
Technology:
A microfiltration system is used in this bagged vacuum. It’s designed to limit the number of particles that get into the air. The bags are highly effective and are purposely designed to limit allergen exposure for asthma sufferers.
Performance:
From a performance standpoint, this vacuum can take your cleaning to a new level. It’s powerful and can get into tight spots. Despite being an upright vacuum, the low-profile design makes getting under furniture a breeze.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Hospital-grade cleaning machine
- 5.6-quart capacity
- 40-foot power cord
- Comes with 5-year limited warranty and a lifetime warranty for the belt
- Automatic cleaning height adjustments
- Detachable accessory hose
- Low-profile design
- Rubber-coated wheels
- Brush indicator light
- Brush stays on when hose is being used
- High price tag
Conclusion:
If air quality is your top priority, this vacuum has you covered. The filtration system is top-notch, helping you keep the dust at bay.
16. Prolux 8000 – Best HEPA Vacuum for Multi-Surface Cleaning
- The Prolux 8000 upright vacuum is an affordable powerhouse with all the bells and whistles that will get your commercial cleaning jobs done efficiently and effectively! Give it a shot, with our 1 Year...
The Prolux vacuum is a great choice for allergy sufferers. The unique filtration system limits dust particles in the air and keeps all of the debris you pick up contained.
Technology:
Rather than sending the dirt and air through the motor, this machine uses an effective bypass feature. Dust is sent directly to the bag. As a result, dust is not blown out of the exhaust port. It stays in the removable bag for easy disposal.
Performance:
With a CFM rating of 107, this is noticeably more powerful than some consumer-grade vacuums. In most cases, you can pick up most of the dirt in your carpets in one pass. Thus, cleaning large areas has never been easier.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- Commercial-grade machine
- HEPA Shield filtration
- 40-foot power cord
- Comes with 5-year warranty on the motor
- Built-in LED lights
- Wide cleaning head
- Includes hose and attachments
- Can be a bit heavy
- Doesn’t perform well on smooth floors
Conclusion:
Allergy sufferers rejoice! With this vacuum, you can finally clean without having to worry about sending a ton of particles in the air you breathe.
17. Hoover CH30000 PortaPower – Good Bag Vacuum for Convenience
- ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING: Use the stretch hose to extend your cleaning reach into tight spaces vacuums cannot reach upright, easily cleaning above-floor and in-between for detailed cleaning
If you have a large building you need to clean, this commercial-grade vacuum from Hoover has you covered. It’s a compact machine that you can easily carry from room to room.
Technology:
This is one of the easiest vacuums to transport and store. The unit is small enough to sling over your shoulder as you work. There’s even a carrying handle for convenience. Despite all of this, the motor is surprisingly powerful, providing you with decent suction power.
Performance:
Whether you’re cleaning tables, floors, or overhead ducts, this vacuum can do it all. The long wand can help you get into those tough spots with ease. Hoover includes several attachments, making it easy to tackle many types of surfaces.
Specs:
- Compact canister vac
- Commercial vacuum
- Can be carried on shoulder
- Reusable cloth bag
- 33-foot power cord
- Durable metal attachment wand
- Includes attachments for carpets, smooth floors, and more
- Comes with shoulder strap
- Built-in blower
- Not good on high-pile carpets
- Door to bag is prone to popping open
Conclusion:
Thanks to its unique design and portable build, this is a great bagged vacuum for those who have a lot of surface area to cover.
18. Bissell BigGreen BGU1451T – Best Budget Vacuum with Bag
- 13" Cleaning Path Width, Lightweight - 12 lbs
Bissell is no stranger to the consumer vacuum market. This model is designed for commercial applications and offers a powerful no-frills cleaning experience.
Technology:
There’s not much to write home about when it comes to technology. Bissell has made this as simple to use as possible, which is a big advantage. Multiple cleaning height adjustments and a detachable hose makes cleaning any surface a cinch.
Performance:
A cyclonic cleaning system is used in the vacuum. It’s similar to what you’d see on Bissell’s residential machines. The suction power is strong and pushes the air through 3 different stages of filtration, keeping the air around you clean.
Specs:
- Upright vacuum
- 3-stage filtration
- Integrated height adjustment knob
- 30-foot power cord
- Comes with 1-year warranty
- Detachable hose and attachments
- Quieter than most models
- 13.5-inch wide cleaning head
- Weighs only 12 pounds
- Cheaper plastic construction
- Can be difficult to push
Conclusion:
All in all, this Bissell upright checks off all the boxes. It’s powerful, easy to use, and gets the job done. What’s not to like?
A Complete Buying Guide for Bagged Vacuum Cleaners
We understand the struggle of finding the right bagged vacuum cleaner for your home. The market is heavily saturated these days. It was worth more than 9 billion dollars in 2018 alone! With all that money to be made, manufacturers pump out new machines all the time.
Unfortunately, not all of them are up to snuff. Your vacuum is a big investment that you’re going to use regularly for years! You should never settle on quality or performance.
If you’re having some trouble sifting through all of your options, we have you covered. Check out our buying guide to learn more about what bagged systems have to offer and what you need to know to choose the right one.
Bagged vs. Bagless Vacuums: Pros & Cons
Before we get into the specifics of what you need to look for as you shop, let’s take a look at how bagged vacuum cleaners and bagless models compare. As we mentioned earlier, bagless machines are typically at the forefront of the industry these days. Manufacturers put millions of dollars into advertising their latest high-tech bagless models.
But are they really any better than bagged options? The truth is that it all depends on what your needs are and how you plan on using your new investment. Both bagged and bagless vacuums have a lot to offer in terms of performance and cleaning capabilities. But that’s where the similarities end.
Here are some important advantages and disadvantages of bagged vacuums that you need to consider. Let’s start with the pros.
Advantages of a Bagged Vacuum
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They’re More Hygienic
At the end of the day, the biggest takeaway from a bagged vacuum cleaner is that they’re way more hygienic than a bagless unit. The whole purpose of a bag is to catch dust, hair, and any other debris you might pick up. Typically made of paper or cotton, these bags keep everything contained and sealed off.That’s not the case with a bagless system. While bagless collection cans can keep things contained while you clean, what happens when you have to empty them out? You have to open up the hatch and interact with everything you just picked up!
Domestic dust can become airborne quickly. It’ll spread throughout the area, get on your skin, and more. Why deal with all of that when you can simply toss out a dirt-filled bag and call it a day?
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Bagged Systems Are Better For Allergy Sufferers
Speaking of airborne dust, bagged vacuum cleaners are much better for those who suffer from allergies. While you might not realize it, there are tons of allergens hiding in your home. Everything from pet dander to mold or dust mites can agitate your sinuses in a moment’s notice.Typically, those allergens won’t cause a problem unless you interact with them directly. That’s where the issue with bagless vacs come in. As you empty out the canister, you can breathe in those airborne allergens. This can result in an allergic flareup until the dust settles.
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They Improve Air Quality
The cool thing about vacuum bags is that they can effectively filter out the air as you clean. Despite their ability to keep dust contained, the material used to construct bags is often porous in nature. Whether it’s made out of paper or woven cotton, the bag does double-duty as a filter.As you’re cleaning, the air is passing through the bag. This effectively filters out tiny particles.
Most bagged vacuum cleaners also incorporate an additional filter for good measure. Some of the best systems will use a HEPA filter. HEPA filters are highly effective at getting rid of particulates as small as 0.3 microns. Originally used in labs and factories, HEPA filters are one of the best ways to clean the air in your home. You’re cleaning your floors anyway, so might as well go that extra mile and make the air much easier to breathe!
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Bagged Vacuums Tend to Have Lower Up-Front Costs
This isn’t always the case, but you’ll often find that most bagged vacuums come with a lower price tag than their bagless counterparts. Bagless systems are equipped with some advanced technology, which costs a pretty penny. Those costs are put onto you, the consumer.There’s no doubt that you’ve seen those pricey bagless systems at your local big-box store or electronics shop. Chances are; you can find a bagged unit that can provide just as good cleaning performance at only a fraction of the cost.
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Bagged Systems are Much Easier to Maintain
The last big advantage worth mentioning is maintenance requirements. Keeping a bagged vacuum cleaner in good shape isn’t hard. That’s because the intricate components aren’t exposed to dirt like they are with bagless units. Like we said, bags keep everything contained. You don’t have to worry about cleaning tiny tubes or trying to fish out stray hairs from the motor.Thanks to the built-in filter, the equipment stays in good shape. All you have to do is toss out the bag and replace it with another one.
Disadvantages of a Bagged Vacuum
Now, let’s move on to some of the disadvantages of a bagged vacuum cleaner. These machines aren’t perfect. They do have a couple of shortcomings compared to bagless options.
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They Have Recurring Costs
Perhaps the most significant disadvantage is the recurring costs that come with owning a bagged vacuum. While there are some reusable bags out there, most are designed to be disposable. Thus, you’re going to have to buy new bags regularly.That’s the price you have to pay for a fully-contained system. It’s a tradeoff that you must consider. Do you want to deal with airborne dust particles and unhygienic cleaning? Or are the costs of additional bags worth the convenience?
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Performance Can Suffer as the Bag Fills
Another downside of bagged vacuum cleaners is that the suction power can diminish as the bag fills. This all comes down to how these machines work. When you turn the vacuum on, air fills the bag before getting filtered and expelled out the exhaust vent.As the dirt level in the bag gets higher, there’s less room for air to move around. As a result, suction power decreases quite a bit. The good news is that this problem is easily solved. Whenever you switch to a new bag, your vacuum will be as good as new!
What Features Are Important to Consider When Buying a Bagged Vacuum Cleaner?
Now that we have that out of the way, let’s dive deep into what makes a good bagged vacuum. With all of the machines on the market these days, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all of your choices. The key to finding an option that works for you is to consider your lifestyle, home, and cleaning regiment. Here are some things to consider when you’re widdling down your options to find the perfect cleaning machine.
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What Kinds of Bagged Vacuum Do You Need?
First things first, what kinds of vacuum cleaner works best for your lifestyle? You’ve already established that a bagged vacuum is the way to go. But what about the overall design? While you might not have given any thought to how a vacuum’s build will affect its efficiency, it’ll play a big part in what you can and cannot do.
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Upright Bagged Vacuum
Upright vacuums are, by far, the most common you’ll see when you’re shopping for bagged models. When most people think of a vacuum cleaner, an upright is the image that comes to mind. It has that iconic “vacuum” cleaner design, which has been around for well over a hundred years.
Generally, upright bagged vacuums are considered to be the most powerful option out there. They are usually belt-driven and have a separate beater bar to kick up dirt from your carpets. Some of the most powerful models can take care of even the most stubborn dirt with just one pass, which is a huge plus.
The only caveats of an upright are that they tend to be a bit cumbersome. Because they are so powerful, they weigh a lot more than the alternatives. Luckily, manufacturers have addressed a lot of the maneuverability issues of older models. Things like swivel steering and smooth wheels make getting around corners and furniture a breeze.
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Bagged Canister Vacuum
Your other bagged option is a canister vacuum. Canister vacuums serve the same purpose as an upright. However, they tend to offer a bit more flexibility when it comes to what you can clean. You see, the main vacuum components, such as the motor and bag, are stored in a separate body that you can easily wheel around. Just attach a flexible hose and an extension wand and you’re ready to clean floors, upholstered furniture, and more.
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Stick, Handheld and Robot Vacuums with Bag
Other types of vacuums are available as well. You can choose between stick, handheld, and robot models. However, most of those will not use a bag. Bagged options do exist, but they’re incredibly rare because space and portability are the top priority rather than dust containment.
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Cleaning Duties You Need to Perform
Another important consideration is the types of jobs you’re going to be performing. Obviously, your bagging vacuum is going to be used on your floors. But have you ever considered how much dirt you plan on picking up? Say, for example, that you have a couple of young kids and furry dogs running around your home at all hours of the day. You’re going to need a much more powerful machine than if you were cleaning a small room that’s barely used!
Maybe you’re looking for a bagged vacuum cleaner that you can use to clean a large office. Again, your needs would change significantly.
Always match your vacuum to the cleaning job you’re going to do. It might not seem like it would make a big difference, but little design quirks can make your job much easier in the long run.
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Types of Dirty Surfaces You Want to Clean
Next, it’s good to put into some thought into what types of surfaces you want to use your vacuum on. Do you have a living room filled with carpet? Are there rooms with smooth floors?
Upright bagged vacuums are best if carpeting is the main surface you want to clean. These machines can be used on smooth floors, but you have to make sure that the brush can be turned off. Alternatively, you can use a model with soft bristles. Either way, the standard stiff brushes on upright vacuums should be avoided. They can easily mar your hardwood floors or tile.
Chances are, you want to use your vacuum on as many surfaces as possible. To achieve that, you’re going to need to invest in a bagged vacuum cleaner that’s flexible enough to handle anything. Canister vacuums usually come with a bevy of attachments that you can use throughout your home. Thanks to the core design of a canister bagged vacuum, you shouldn’t have any problems reaching high corners or getting underneath furniture.
It’s possible to do this with an upright, too. It just needs to have a separate attachment hose to get into all those nooks and crannies.
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Vacuum Bag Capacity
The great thing about bagged vacuums is that they’re often capable of holding onto much more dirt than bagless options. The exact specifications will vary from model to model. On the higher end of the spectrum, you can find machines that’ll easily hold up to 2 pounds of debris! Use this to your advantage and keep your cleaning duties in mind.
Also, don’t forget about the performance dip we went over earlier! Bagged vacuum cleaners can lose suction the more the bag is filled. If you have a larger bag to work with, that decreased airflow will be less of an issue.
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Size and Weight of the Vacuum
Size and weight will ultimately affect the machine’s maneuverability. This applies to both upright and canister vacuums. Lightweight and compact options will be easier to move around your home, which can make things much easier on your body.
Bagged vacuum cleaners can weigh anywhere between 12 and 23 pounds. This is significantly lighter than older models from decades ago. Even still, it’s an important thing to keep in mind.
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Appropriate Noise Levels
Let’s face it: vacuum cleaners are incredibly loud. You know it. Your dog knows it. Even your neighbors know it!
On average, vacuums will produce between 70 and 80 decibels of noise when turned on. For a point of reference, the average noise levels in homes are around 40 decibels.
If noise is a concern, you can find bagged options that are quieter than normal machines. Manufacturers will use specialized motors and careful construction to dampen as much noise as possible.
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Included Warranty and Manufacturer Support
As with any appliance you buy for your home, it pays to have a solid warranty policy and good customer support. Many manufacturers offer good warranty policies that will cover repair or replacement costs during a set period after purchase. This can vary from 12 months to 5 years. Of course, the details of each warranty policy will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, so read the fine print!
As for customer support, several vacuum brands offer a dedicated team to address questions or concerns. They’ll be there to help you out if you ever encounter any issues with your machine or warranty policy. This isn’t something that every brand offers, so make sure to do some research and look for support phone numbers or email addresses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Bagged Vacuum Cleaners Comparison Chart
| Product | Type | Cord Length | HEPA | Dimensions | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Miele Compact C2 | Canister | 33-ft | Yes | 16.7 x 9.6 x 9.1 inches | 18.7 pounds | Check Price |
| 2. Soniclean Soft SFC-7000 | Upright | 35-ft | Yes | 11.5 x 14 x 43.5 inches | 10.5 pounds | Check Price |
| 3. Miele Complete C3 | Canister | 24-ft | Yes | 19.5 x 11.2 x 8.9 inches | 19.4 pounds | Check Price |
| 4. Kenmore Elite 31150 | Upright | 35-ft | Yes | 14.2 x 13.8 x 45.8 inches | 20 pounds | Check Price |
| 5. Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS | Upright | 35-ft | No | 6 x 13 x 35 inches | 9 pounds | Check Price |
| 6. Hoover WindTunnel UH30600 | Upright | 30-ft | Yes | 15.7 x 12.5 x 31.8 inches | 14.99 pounds | Check Price |
| 7. Bissell Zing 4122 | Canister | 17-ft | No | 18.6 x 11.1 x 11.5 inches | 12.5 pounds | Check Price |
| 8. Metropolitan Vac 'n' Blo | Vac-Blower Combo | 12-ft | No | 17 x 7 x 7 inches | 12.5 pounds | Check Price |
| 9. Eureka Mighty Mite 3670G | Canister | 20-ft | No | 9 x 17.5 x 11.6 inches | 11.6 pounds | Check Price |
| 10. Miele Dynamic U1 Maverick | Upright | 39-ft | Yes | 10 x 14 x 46 inches | 20 pounds | Check Price |
| 11. Sanitaire SC888K Commercial | Upright | 50-ft | No | 18 x 23 x 9 inches | 21.2 pounds | Check Price |
| 12. Bissell BigGreen BGCOMP9H | Canister | 50-ft | No | 15.9 x 15.9 x 21.9 inches | 18.9 pounds | Check Price |
| 13. ProVac CN Canister | Canister | 50-ft | No | 31 x 16 x 18 inches | 10 pounds | Check Price |
| 14. Panasonic MC-UG223 | Upright | 25-ft | No | 12.5 x 14 x 44.5 inches | 14 pounds | Check Price |
| 15. Sebo 9587AM Automatic | Upright | 40-ft | No | 28 x 15.8 x 9.2 inches | 22.1 pounds | Check Price |
| 16. Prolux 8000 Bagged Upright Vac | Upright | 40-ft | Yes | 13 x 14 x 43 inches | 18 pounds | Check Price |
| 17. Hoover CH30000 PortaPower | Canister | 33-ft | No | 20.9 x 7.8 x 12.5 inches | 14.6 pounds | Check Price |
| 18. Bissell BigGreen BGU1451T | Upright | 30-ft | No | 7 x 15 x 31.3 inches | 12 pounds | Check Price |
Wrap Up
The very best bagged vacuum cleaners have a lot to offer. While bagless models have certainly grown in popularity, bagged machines offer far better protection from airborne dust. Whether you suffer from allergies or not, these machines can keep the air in your home clean without sacrificing performance. Check out one of our recommended picks and get cleaning!
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