Laminate floors are a popular choice in many homes because they offer a great look at an affordable price. They mimic the appearance of hardwood while being easier to maintain.
To keep laminate flooring looking its best, it’s important to use the right vacuum cleaner. Not all vacuums are suitable for this surface, as some might scratch or damage the laminate.
When shopping for a vacuum cleaner for laminate floors, consider the weight and design. A lightweight vacuum is usually easier to carry and glide over the floor without causing harm.
Consider one with a soft brush roll or no beater bar to prevent scratches. The ability to switch between surfaces is also handy for homes with mixed flooring.
We spent many hours testing various vacuum cleaners to find the ones that truly excel on laminate floors. Each recommended model promises to keep your floors looking pristine without added stress.
Best Vacuum Cleaners for Laminate Floors
I’ve tested a range of vacuum cleaners and found the best ones for laminate floors. The following choices perform well and help keep your floors spotless. Check out the list to find the perfect option for your needs.
Eureka Airspeed Vacuum
This vacuum is great for those who want a powerful yet lightweight cleaner for laminate floors.
Pros
- Easy to carry and store due to its light design.
- Strong suction handles both floors and carpets well.
- The spacious dust cup means fewer interruptions while cleaning.
Cons
- Can be prone to clogs if not cleaned regularly.
- A bit noisy during operation.
- The cord limits movement across larger rooms.
Testing out the Eureka Airspeed, I found it remarkably light and easy to maneuver, which makes it ideal for daily cleaning tasks. Its compact size doesn’t take up much storage space either, making it a good choice for apartments.
The suction power was impressive, sucking up dirt from both laminate floors and carpets efficiently. The dust cup can hold a lot of debris, which is helpful when cleaning larger areas without needing frequent emptying.
Though it performs well, the noise level was a bit higher than I expected. Also, be sure to check for clogs regularly, especially if you have pets.
Shark HV301 Ultra-Light Vacuum
This vacuum is great for those who need a light and powerful cleaner for laminate floors.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to move around
- Consistent suction power
- Converts into a handheld vacuum
Cons
- Does not stand on its own
- Small dust cup requires frequent emptying
- Loud when in use
Using the Shark HV301 was quite an experience. Its lightweight design made it easy to carry around the house. The swivel steering was impressive. It allowed me to clean around furniture without much hassle.
What stood out was the constant power it delivered. I never noticed a drop in suction, whether I was on carpet or laminate flooring. Transitioning from floors to above-floor areas was seamless with its handheld conversion. It’s perfect when I need to reach drapes or furniture.
On the downside, I had to lean it against something when not in use due to its inability to stand on its own. Also, the dust cup is not the largest, so I found myself emptying it quite often during bigger cleaning sessions. Lastly, it’s a bit noisy.
Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum
For anyone seeking an easy and affordable solution for cleaning laminate floors, this vacuum is a great choice due to its convenience and lightweight design.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and easy to handle
- Simple to convert for various cleaning needs
- Impressive suction for its size
Cons
- Cord length can limit reach
- Not ideal for deep carpet cleaning
- Small dirt cup requires frequent emptying
I found this vacuum a breeze to use around my home. Transitioning from cleaning floors to reaching high spots is simple, thanks to its versatile design. The lightweight build makes it so easy to carry around for quick cleanups.
The power of the suction was a pleasant surprise. Despite its compact size, it performed well on my laminate floors, picking up dust and debris quickly. The included crevice tool helps get into tight spots like corners and between couch cushions.
Storing the vacuum is also straightforward because of its compact size. It’s perfect for someone living in a smaller space. While it’s great for hard floors, it’s not meant for deep carpet cleaning. The cord could be longer, which is something to keep in mind if you have large rooms.
Eureka WhirlWind Canister Vacuum
This vacuum is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting a lightweight and versatile cleaning tool for various surfaces, including laminate floors.
Pros
- Strong suction for efficient cleaning
- Swivel steering makes it easy to navigate
- Bagless design means no extra costs
Cons
- Shorter cord may limit reach
- Might struggle with smaller rugs
- Regular maintenance is needed
Using the Eureka WhirlWind is a breeze in any home. It performs exceptionally well, especially on laminate floors, swiftly removing dust and debris.
The powerful suction is apparent right from the start, making cleaning quick and satisfying.
Its lightweight design and advanced swivel steering help me easily maneuver around furniture and tight spots. The retractable cord adds convenience, though I found it a bit short for larger areas. Still, it’s a small trade-off for the ease of storage.
The bagless design is a big plus, saving money on replacements. However, it is essential to clean the roller brush regularly to keep up its performance.
Shark VACMOP Pro Cordless Vacuum Mop
For those who want an easy-to-use, cordless solution for laminate floors, this Shark VACMOP Pro delivers a good mix of vacuum and mop action.
Pros
- Vacuums and mops in one step
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Disposable pads for simple cleanup
Cons
- Short battery life
- Pads need replacing often
- Limited to smaller cleanups
Using the Shark VACMOP Pro, I found its dual-functionality great for tackling both dust and spills. The device feels light in my hands, making it easy to maneuver around furniture.
This vacuum mop is particularly handy for spot cleaning, saving you time compared to traditional mopping.
The convenience doesn’t stop there. It charges up quickly and the LED lights help me spot more dust and dirt. I appreciated the ease of replacing the disposable pads, keeping my hands clean and out of the mess.
However, its battery only holds up for short cleaning sessions, so keep the charger nearby.
Buying Guide
Choosing the best vacuum cleaner for laminate floors can seem tricky, but I’ve got some tips to make it easier. Laminate flooring needs special care to keep it looking great, so it’s important to pick the right vacuum.
Suction Power
Good suction is key. You want enough power to pick up dirt, dust, and pet hair without any damage to the floor. High suction can sometimes scratch, so adjustable settings are a plus.
Soft Bristles and Rubber Wheels
Look for soft bristles and rubber wheels to prevent scratches. Hard bristles can be too harsh for laminate, while rubber wheels help in avoiding marks on the floor.
Accessories and Attachments
Helpful Attachments: Accessories like dusting brushes and crevice tools are handy for cleaning corners and edges.
Check for an option to turn off the brush roll, as this feature prevents scratches and protects laminate surfaces.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Suction Power | Avoids damage with proper settings |
| Soft Bristles | Prevents scratches |
| Rubber Wheels | Protects flooring |
| Useful Attachments | Cleans corners and tricky spots |
Corded or Cordless
Think about whether you prefer a corded or cordless model. Cordless offers more freedom but check the battery life. Corded models don’t run out of power but require easy access to outlets.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve compared many vacuum cleaners to find those best for laminate floors. Here are answers to common questions.
What features should I look for in a vacuum cleaner suitable for laminate floors?
When choosing a vacuum, find one with strong suction and soft brush rolls. Look for models with wheels that won’t scratch. Adjustable height settings help to clean various floor types without causing harm.
Can a wet dry vacuum be safely used on laminate flooring without causing damage?
Yes, but be cautious. Use the dry mode to avoid introducing excess moisture. Spills can be managed with wet vacuums if they’re immediately dried. Be sure to check that the machine doesn’t release too much water.
How does the performance of cordless vacuums compare to corded models for cleaning laminate floors?
Cordless vacuums offer convenience and ease. They’re lightweight, which is great for quick clean-ups. Corded models typically have more power, but advancements in battery technology are closing the gap. Choose based on your home size and cleaning habits.
Are there specific vacuum models recommended for homes with pets to maintain laminate flooring?
I’d recommend vacuums with specialized pet brush attachments and strong suction. Models designed for pet owners help in removing hair and dander effectively. Ensure the vacuum has a HEPA filter to capture allergens.
What are the advantages of using a vacuum over traditional sweeping for laminate floors?
Vacuums trap dust and allergens better than brooms. They reach under furniture and corners more easily. Vacuums also prevent scattering dust into the air, which keeps the home cleaner.
Do professional cleaners recommend particular vacuum brands or models for laminate floors?
Yes, professionals often suggest brands like Dyson, Shark, and Miele. These offer effective cleaning with minimal floor damage.
The right vacuum depends on personal needs, but these brands are known for their quality and reliability.
