Best Bagged Vacuum Cleaner – Finding the Right Fit

A search on Google for vacuum cleaners returns almost 3 million results.  Sifting through those kinds of results trying to find that best vacuum cleaner for you can be daunting, if not frustrating.  How do you compare bagged vacuum cleaners when there are so many features and options?  Hopefully, this list can help make sense of the confusion.

Finding the best bagged vacuum cleaner for your needs means matching features and functions of the machine to your needs.  This list of bagged vacuums has a wide range of features and will help you find the right vacuum on the market with the features you want and need.

This list is not ranked or prioritized.  These the best bagged vacuums and the features for which they stand out among the others.  Find the features that you want most in a vacuum and then compare the machines with those outstanding features and make your decision.

Before We Get Sucked In – Bag or Bagless

Why we Prefer Bagged Vacuums

There are some things to consider when deciding on a vacuum.  Many people wonder if bagged vacuums are better than bagless models.  In many ways, this is a personal preference issue.  Bagged vacuums do have some distinct advantages over bagless models.

Clean and Easy Disposal

Bagless models generally require you to remove a canister of some sort and dump it into the trash bin when it is full.  No matter how careful you are, there always seems to be a small cloud of fine dust when you detach the canister from the vacuum and an even bigger cloud when you turn it upside down into the trash bin. 

Bagged vacuums avoid this by trapping all of the debris and dust inside a paper or fiber bag that you disconnect the bag and toss the entire thing into the trash.  The bag eliminates the wiping out of the inside of a dusty canister or cleaning an internal filter. 

Higher Quality Air in Your Home

Most bagless vacuums have an internal air filter within the canister where the dust and debris are collected.  Many times this is nothing more than a fine mesh screen or a pleated paper filter that needs cleaning with every emptying of the canister.

Bagged vacuums do not have this sort of air filtration.  The bag is the air filter and its much larger surface area increases the air filtration by several factors.  There is no need to clean a separate filter with each bag change.  A fresh new bag in the vacuum means a fresh unused air filter.

Less Regular Maintenance

Typically, bagged vacuums have a higher capacity for dirt and debris than bagless models.  Fewer trips to the trash bin is a major benefit in the maintenance department.  Without an internal filter, the bagless vacuum requires far less attention when emptying the vacuum.  No more wiping or rinsing out of a canister or cleaning and replacing internal filters. 

The Downsides

Bagged vacuums do need fresh bags regularly.  Purchasing new bags becomes an expense and, as the vacuum model ages, finding bags can become a problem. 

Some models of bagged vacuums have a habit of losing some cleaning power as the bag nears the full mark.  Newer models from the major manufacturers address this problem, but the loss of suction may still be an issue on some bagged vacuums.

Best Bagged Vacuum Cleaners Table

Oreck Commercial XL Upright Vacuum  Model XL2100RHS – Best Budget Buy Bagged Vacuum!

The Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS makes the list as the best compromise on vacuum performance and price.  For the budget-minded looking for a workhorse bagged vacuum at a reasonable price, the Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS fits the bill almost perfectly.

As a commercial-grade vacuum, the Oreck design meets the daily rigors of use in commercial applications such as offices and hotels.  The beauty of the Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS is the price.  This model of Oreck vacuum can be found readily for the same price as a consumer-grade vacuum.

The Oreck brings a lot to the table and deserves consideration unless there a specialty features that you need.

• Weighs just 9 lbs.
• Operates on bare floors and on the carpet.
• Low profile for under furniture cleaning.
• Excellent side cleaning.
• 35-foot power cord.
• Provides deep carpet cleaning even on pile carpets.

Only two real downsides need mentioning about the Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS.

• A Lack of steering wheels or lights
• The bags are a bit more expensive than comparable models.

Despite the minor negatives, the Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS is the best budget buy.  The chance to get a commercial-grade machine for the cost of a consumer vacuum is a definite game-winner.

A survey of consumer sights across the internet shows that the Oreck XL2100RHS scores consistently in the top of positive consumer reports.  Many places rank the Oreck a 4+ out of 5 on customer satisfaction with the model of bagged vacuum.

For more information about the Oreck Commercial XL Upright Vacuum, Model XL2100RHS visit this link in Amazon

Bissell Zing Bagged Canister Vacuum Model 4122 – Exceptional Lightweight Canister Vacuum!

If you routinely move a vacuum up and downstairs to clean, a lightweight canister vacuum may be on your features list.  Lugging a heavier upright bagged vacuum around a multi-level home can become a chore.  Enter the Bissell Zing bagged canister vacuum.

Bissell has a reputation for building fine vacuums and other cleaning appliances.  The Zing bagged vacuum is no exception.  It offers a combination of features that most lightweight canister vacuums don’t meet.

• Its lightweight makes it easy to carry.  The Zing weighs only 7.5 lbs. 
• The ergonomic handle and shape ease the burden and don’t seem to create back problems like many canister vacuums.
• The ability to move from hard surfaces to soft surfaces without problem makes the Zing the perfect vacuum for moving around the home
• The accessories make this versatile vacuum easy to use in auto interiors.
• A telescoping wand allows cleaning in hard to reach spaces and along the tops of doors frames, walls and drapes.
• The Zing includes a full bag indicator, so there is never any question about when to change the bag.

Customer comments focus on only one negative about this vacuum.  Some users report that the accessory tool holder tends to fall off.  Despite this one negative, the Bissell Zing Bagged Canister Vacum rates as a Best in Class.

Overall, looking across the internet, Bissell Zing receives high praise for its practicality, its cleaning power, and its reliability.  Most consumers also like the price of the Bissell Zing.  In many instances, a new Bissell Zing price is under $60.  You won’t find a better set of features for the price on any other lightweight canister vacuum.

To shop for the Bissell Zing bagged canister vacuum, Model 4122 and to check out more features of this bagged vacuum, visit Amazon here. 

Kenmore Elite Model 31150 Bagged Vacuum Cleaner – Best for households with pets

The Kenmore Elite Model 31150  is a feature-rich upright bagged vacuum that excels in environments where pet hair and other debris can be a problem.  Strong and powerful, the Kenmore Elite 31150 boasts a wide cleaning path and HEPA filtration.

The feature list on this vacuum is long, which makes it come in among the best in the reviews.  Some of the more exceptional features on this vacuum include:

• A 35-foot power cord for long reach;
• The motor is a powerful 12 amp #D inducer motor;
• 12.75 inches of cleaning path to make vacuuming quicker and easier;
• The agitator brush is beltless eliminating broken belts and the hassles of replacement;
• LED forward lights, and;
• An infrared dirt sensor.

The infrared dirt sensor is an interesting feature.  The sensor monitors the area being cleaned and activated an LED light on the vacuum when the area needs more cleaning attention.  The LED light goes out when the area is free from dirt. 

Consumer satisfaction and use reports highlight several positives about the Kenmore Elite Model 31150.

• Strong suction
• HEPA Filtration
• Easy to maneuver
• Long cord
• Multi-floor capability

The Kenmore Elite 31150 comes with a five-position height adjustment, a telescoping wand, and what Kenmore terms the “Pet Handi-Mate” tool.  This vacuum has certifications by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America for its HEPA filtration and pet debris pickup abilities.

The machine is heavy, coming in at twenty pounds, which may make it difficult for multi-level homes.  Some consumers mention the high noise level of the vacuum and its tendency to topple when using the wand and extension hose.

The features of the Kenmore Elite 31150, especially its filtration and pet debris control abilities, make this the pick of vacuums if you live with furry friends or have problems with allergies.

To see more features of the Kenmore Elite 31150, visit Amazon here.

SEBO 9587AM Automatic X5 Upright Bagged Vacuum – Best of the Best

SEBO is not a well-known brand among vacuums in the United States.  Built in Germany, the SEBO brand is well known for the quality of its products and as some of the most powerful vacuums available in the market place. 

With such innovative features as worn-brush indicators, full-bag indicator, and an active cleaning head that automatically adjusts to a different floor covering heights, the SEBO 9587AM Automatic X5 bagged vacuum is a prime choice for a list of best bagged vacuums.

The SEBO 9587AM has one of the largest onboard collection capacities on the market.  Larger bag capacity reduces the number of times you must replace the bag, eliminating some of the maintenance time spent on vacuuming. 

A revolutionary integral electronic controller can sense changes in the floor conditions and make changes in the machine for optimal cleaning.  The controller will change the head height, increase power and tell you when the bag is full or there is a clog in the system.

The SEBO does not lack in features by any stretch.

• 10.8 amp motor for consistent power.
• Weighs only 16.9 lbs for easy handling.
• Includes a 40-foot power cord, one of the longest in the market.
• Integral wand and suction hose.
• Bag full or clog indicator light.
• Brush Obstruction Light.
• Rubber coated wheels to protect your floor coverings.
• Automatic height adjustment.
• S-Class pre-motor filters
• Auto shut off.

Surveying consumer comments and reports online show a long list of pros.  By and large, the comments are favorable and reflect SEBO’s attention to detail and quality construction.  Some of these highlighted pros are:

• Durability
• Power
• Design
• Capacity
• Wide Cleaning Path
• Lifetime Belt Warranty
• 5-year machine warranty

The one big downside consistently listed is the price of this machine.  You must be willing to spend close to $900 to put a SEBO 9587AM Automatic X5 upright bagged vacuum in your stable of housekeeping tools.   It seems like a stiff price to pay.

On the upside, a vacuum that can last well past a decade and provides so many features in a well-engineered and built machine makes it an easy choice as the Best of the Best.

You may also want to know: The King of Clean – Roomba S Series Vacuum

To learn more about the SEBO 9587 AM Automatic X5 Upright Vacuum, take a look on Amazon at this link.

ProTeam Provac CN Canister Vacuum – Superior Hard Surface Cleaning

Another brand of vacuum that doesn’t make it into the mainstream of consumer vacuums is the ProTeam Provac CN Canister Vacuum.  A true commercial vacuum, the ProTeam Provac CN makes out the list for its exceptional ability to clean hard surface floor coverings.

Also Read: Best Vacuums for Laminate Floors

One of the most telling features of the ProTeam Provac CN is its huge capacity.  The vacuum capacity rates at 10 quarts, far above almost any other bagged vacuum on the market.  This feature will dramatically reduce the maintenance required of any homeowner using this vacuum.

Proteam also builds one of the most durable vacuums on the market.  The ProTeam Provac CN has no belts or beater bars.  The company builds the machines as simple as possible to reduce wear and tear on parts and keep maintenance to a minimum.

Features of the ProTeam Provac CN Canister Vacuum include:

• Four level filtration certified Gold by the Carpet and Rug Institute.
• A true commercial vacuum designed to stand up to the rigors of daily use in high traffic areas.
• Come with a 50-foot power cord to allow long-distance reach.
• Tough and durable without belts or beater bars to wear out or break.
• Come with a restaurant accessory package that allows cleaning of almost any area or surface.
• Overall weight is a mere 10 pounds making the vacuum light and easy to maneuver, even on multi-level homes.

User comments found across several sites on the internet are positive and complimentary of the ProTeam Provac CN.  Some of the comments include:

• Powerful suction
• Easy to use
• Solid Design
• Rugged and Durable
• Cleans hardwood floors well

There are a few negative comments to be found.  Most of them refer to the telescoping metal wand and the fittings, which seem to be prone to failure.  The other major issue is the price.  Purchasing a ProTeam Provac CN will set you back close to $500. 

For a lot of homeowners, this seems exorbitant for a vacuum.  However, if you have a large house with vast expanses of hard surface floor coverings, the added expense of the ProTeam Provac CN is not a hard argument to make.

The capabilities of the ProTeam Provac CN Commercial Bagged Vacuum, especially its superior cleaning on hard floor surfaces and its simple design, make this machine the Best for Hard Surfaces.

Find more information about the ProTeam Provac CN Commercial Bagged Vacuum at this link.

Soniclean Soft Carpet Upright Vacuum Cleaner – Perfect for Plush Carpets

Soft carpets, deep pile carpets, or even shag carpets can pose a challenge to most conventional vacuums.  Not so the Soniclean Soft Carpet Upright Vacuum Cleaner.  The fibers from the deep pile and soft pile carpets can clog the beater bars of conventional vacuums and cause no end of problems.  The long pile fibers can make pushing the vacuum and create maintenance issues.

Soniclean employs a patented sonic cleaning technology that they advertise “as an effective and non-abrasive way to clean soft-style carpets.”  Combining this patented technology with a soft brush roll instead of a standard beater bar and a patented EZ-Push vent technology, the Soniclean soft carpet vacuum is the perfect answer to deep pile and soft pile carpets.

The Soniclean patented sonic cleaning action uses sound vibrations to dislodge deep dirt in the pile of the carpet without damaging the fibers.  The sonic pulses occurring at 200 times per second help lift the deep dirt to the surface for removal.  Yet, the Soniclean is one of the quietest vacuums on the market.

The Soniclean Soft Carpet Upright brings to the table an impressive list of features in addition to its patented technologies.

• Lifetime Belt Warranty
• At only 10.5 lbs, it is an ultra-lightweight design.
• The motor is warrantied for five years.
• The power cord is 35 feet long for easy reach in most homes.
• HEPA Filtration bags for clean air performance.
• Full bag indicator for more efficient use.
• Lays flat for easy cleaning under furniture down to 7” tall.

On the flip side, the Soniclean is relatively expensive but not as pricey as some other models that don’t get so the same sort of job on a deep pile and soft pile carpets.  If you have invested in plush style carpets, you should know that many tops of the line carpet manufacturers recommend the Soniclean for use on their soft-styled carpets.

The patented soft clean technology and the many features of the Soniclean Soft Clean Upright Bagged Vacuum make it a Best for Plush Carpets.

Visit Amazon to see more information about this vacuum by following this link

Oreck Magnesium LW1500RS – Superior Lightweight Upright Bagged Vacuum

If you are in search of a lightweight bagged upright vacuum that is easily transported but performs like a much bigger and heavier machine, then the Oreck Magnesium LW1500RS should be your choice. 

Weighing only 7.7 lbs, the Oreck Magnesium is easily the lightest vacuum on the list.  Yet, despite the lightweight, the Oreck Magnesium boasts a powerful motor for great suction.  Couple the power with a two speed QuickSwitch on the handle to control the speed of the brush and you have a versatile and easy to maneuver the machine.

One of the great features of bagged vacuums is the filtration afforded by the bag.  The Oreck Magnesium LWatooRS is no exception.  The HEPA rated Oreck bags filter an incredible 99.97% of contaminants from the air, including those .3 microns or larger.

The Oreck Magnesium also features SlimSwivel steering to make moving the Oreck Magnesium in and around furniture and other obstructions easy and quick.  The Oreck also bends to near 180 degrees allowing easy access under furniture and the built-in LED lights to make spotting dirt and debris a breeze.

To top off the lightweight yet powerful design, Oreck offers a hefty list of features that add to the value of this vacuum.

• The machine weighs only 7.7 lbs.
• Built-in LED lights for seeing under furniture.
• Five-layer HEPA rated bags for great air filtration
• SlimSwivel Steering for easy maneuverability.
• 30-foot power cord for good reach.
• Ten-liter dust bags.
• The vacuum features multi-surface cleaning ability and easy movement between surfaces.
• Handles pet hair well
• Seven-year limited warranty

One disadvantage cited for the Oreck Magnesium Upright is the lack of attachments for overhead cleaning.  Remarks found on the internet by customers reflect a feeling that the Oreck Magnesium may not work well on a deep pile or soft pile carpets.

The Oreck Magnesium LW1500RS is not the most expensive vacuum on the list.  It falls toward the middle of the range in cost, but for the features and the advantage of its lightweight and SlimSwivel steering, it qualifies as the Best Lightweight Vacuum. 

More information about the Oreck Magnesium LW1500RS on Amazon at this link.

Metropolitan Vac ‘n’ Blo Compact Vacuum – Model VNB-83BA – Unparalleled Portable Power

At some time, we all need to use a vacuum in a place that our upright or canister vacuum just doesn’t fit or work.  If you are detailing cars or boats getting into some of those hard to reach spots, not to mention working in a garage or driveway can challenge the capabilities of upright and canister vacuums.

Enter the Metropolitan Vac ‘n’ Blo Compact Vacuum.  This little beast is handy to have around the house as well.  Its compact design, powerful suction and wide arrange of accessory tools will make those spot cleaning or special jobs much easier.  The ability to blow as well as suction is a great feature as well.

The Metropolitan Vac ‘n’ Blo gets high ratings for durability as well.  The steel construction means that the vacuum will be with you for many years.  An impressive list of accessories and features rounds out the picture for this vacuum.

• A combination vacuum and blower to allow a wide range of applications.
• Ships with 13 different attachments to meet almost any cleaning challenge.
• Four horsepower motor delivers exceptional power in a small package.
• Come with a reuseable cloth dust bag.  Disposable paper bags are available separately.
• The vacuum Includes six-foot hose, two twenty-inch extension wands, a crevice tool, a dusting brush, inflator adapter, blower nozzle, four-piece micro cleaning tool kit, and shoulder strap.

Because of its steel construction, the Metropolitan Vac ‘n’ Blo comes in at 12.5 lbs, which is a tad heavier than some other portable compact vacuums.  The short power cord is also a common complaint seen on user reviews of this vacuum. 

Overall, the durable construction and powerful suction make the Metropolitan Vac ‘n’ Blow Compact Vacuum, Model VN8-83A the Best Portable Detail Vacuum.

Find more detailed information on Amazon at this link.

Finding The Best Fit For You

The challenge is finding the best bagged vacuum that is the right fit for your circumstances and your needs.  Before deciding on a bagged vacuum, consider your expectations and your budget.  Balancing features with priorities ensures that you get the right bagged vacuum and enjoy many years of service from your purchase.