The Best Vacuums for Stairs, Tested for Lightweight, High-Suction Cleaning

Vacuums for stairs need to handle tight angles, uneven surfaces, and hard-to-reach corners—conditions that make steps some of the toughest areas to clean. Regular vacuuming, however, helps preserve stair runners and carpeting while removing debris that could pose a safety hazard. Since not every model is designed for the demands of cleaning stairs, we spent a month testing 10 popular vacuums and evaluating their features, usability, and performance.

Based on our efforts, we chose the Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Stick Vacuum as our top pick for its lightweight design, powerful suction, and affordable price. Keep reading to see how it and the other models we liked performed in our tests and for guidance on choosing the best vacuums for stairs.

1. BEST OVERALL: Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Stick Vacuum
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bissell FeatherWeight Lightweight Stick Vacuum
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Dyson V11 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
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4. BEST HANDHELD: Black+Decker Dustbuster Pivot Vac Handheld Vacuum
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5. BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Black+Decker Dustbuster Flex Cordless Handheld Vacuum
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6. BEST FOR PET HAIR: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Pet Hand Vacuum
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7. BEST FOR CARPET: Shark Rotator Lift-Away ADV Upright Vacuum
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Vacuums for Stairs Comparison

Our Top Picks

A good vacuum for stairs needs to be light, easy to maneuver, and powerful enough to pull dirt and hair from tight spaces. Whether you’re looking for a high-suction vacuum with a long cord or a small cordless handheld vacuum for stairs, one of the models below should be right for your needs. 

The Levoit LVAC-200 is our top pick for its lightweight design, impressive suction, and affordable price. Weighing just over 3 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces and carry up and down stairs. It has three speed settings—eco, medium, and turbo—and comes with a crevice tool and pet tool, making it versatile for different surfaces and cleaning needs. 

Performance during testing was solid. The Levoit picked up everyday dirt on hard floors and low- to medium-pile rugs with ease, though it did occasionally struggle with larger debris. On the medium setting, the battery lasted long enough to cover about 1,000 square feet. On turbo, however, which worked best for thicker carpeting, runtime was limited to only about 15 minutes. It also takes between 4 and 5 hours to fully recharge, so those with larger homes and a lot of carpet may want to pick up an extra battery. Still, for smaller spaces or houses with mainly hard floors, it delivers excellent results at an affordable price. 

What our tester says: “The things that put this model over the top for me were the headlight that helps illuminate dirt and its ability to stand on its own without tipping over.”—Katie Barton, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Levoit vacuum for stairs at Amazon, Best Buy, or Levoit.

Those in the market for an affordable bagless vacuum cleaner to dedicate to stairs and smaller areas should consider this Bissell model. At just 2.6 pounds, the stick-and-handle combo is exceptionally lightweight and performs equally well on both hardwood and carpeted surfaces. 

In testing, the FeatherWeight worked great as a handheld unit, though we preferred using the stick attachment for cleaning our stairs. The included crevice tool made corners easy to reach, and while a button ejector for attachments would have been nice, swapping them out was still relatively simple. The 15-foot cord allowed us to reach the top of our staircase, though using a corded model does require a bit more care. Suction was ample, lifting smaller pieces of paper and larger beads in one pass, but the dirt cup was on the small side. After use, this compact vacuum cleaner​ fit easily into our closet or under our bed, which was another plus. 

Get the Bissell FeatherWeight vacuum for stairs at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, or Bissell.

If you share your home with furry friends, the Dyson V11 Animal may be the perfect solution for cleaning their hair from your floors. Equipped with stiff nylon bristles and a high-torque cleaner head, it digs deep into carpets to remove embedded pet hair while remaining gentle on hardwood and tile. Its advanced 14-cyclone filtration is said to capture 99.99 percent of particles as small as 0.3 microns, helping reduce allergens and keeping the air cleaner.

Powered by Dyson’s digital motor, the V11 delivers suction that rivals many corded uprights. Its intelligent dynamic load sensor automatically increases suction when transitioning to thicker carpet, making it effective across multiple flooring types. During testing, it picked up fine dust, debris, and pet hair with ease, and the digital LCD screen provided ongoing updates on battery life, performance, and maintenance.

Runtime reaches up to an hour on standard mode, though using Boost mode for thicker carpeting cuts that quickly. Extended cleaning sessions can get tiring since you have to hold the trigger down constantly, so much so that we sometimes had to switch hands. Still, the sealed dustbin empties without making a mess, and over, it’s one of the most reliable cordless models we’ve tested.

Read our full review: Dyson V11 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner 

What our tester says: “We have multiple animals who shed, so in our home, this Dyson cordless vacuum has been worth the price. Not having to cut twisted fur and hair off the roller brush has been a big benefit.”—Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Dyson vacuum for stairs at Amazon or Dyson.

With its foldable, compact design, strong suction, and large dustbin, this handheld cordless vacuum is a real stair-buster. For those who can comfortably bend down to clean stairs, it’s ideal for quick jobs, especially cleaning dusty corners using the extendable crevice tool. It also has a 200-degree pivoting nozzle that makes vacuuming at different angles much easier. Our runner is jute, and we found it worked more efficiently on the perimeter of the hardwood stairs than on the textured section. However, it ran smoothly over the couch and low-pile doormat. 

The battery indicator kept us informed on remaining power, and after an overnight charge, we were able to clean for the full length of the advertised runtime (10 minutes) with life to spare. We had some initial trouble retracting the extendable crevice tool into the wider suction head, but once we learned to push it down with a thumb and slide it in, the problem was solved. 

The dust cup was easy to empty, and we loved that it detaches from the motor for washing out at the sink. The dock provides convenient storage, and the vacuum’s compact size makes it easy to carry and tuck away when not in use.

Get the Black+Decker Pivot Vac vacuum for stairs at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Black+Decker.

The Black+Decker Dustbuster Flex is so compact and lightweight that we almost couldn’t believe there was a vacuum in the box. Sized somewhere between a volleyball and a basketball, it only weighs 5 pounds, comes fully assembled, and includes a pet brush, crevice tool, flip-up brush, and 4-foot flexible hose. 

After an initial 4 hours of charging time, we got right to work using the pet brush attachment to remove dog hair from our stair treads and a combo of the hose and crevice tool to reach into tight corners. While both were effective, this lightweight vacuum cleaner’s suction isn’t as strong as the larger models we tested, which is to be expected. Still, the battery offered an extended cleaning time of about 20 minutes, and the three-stage filtration system prevented debris and allergens from escaping the spacious 17-ounce dust bowl. However, because this is a true handheld model, it won’t be ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to bend down.. 

Get the Black+Decker Flex vacuum for stairs at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Black+Decker.

Pet lovers are likely to rejoice about this Bissell, a handheld vacuum cleaner for pet hair that truly shines on stairs—provided you’re comfortable bending down. The mini brush head snaps in easily for vacuuming stair treads and releases instantly with the quick-release button. The crevice attachment is perfect for reaching into corners where pet hair likes to hide, and you can also add a dusting brush to extend its reach. 

Unlike with many handhelds, you don’t need to hold down the power button during use. As soon as we switched it on, we felt the powerful suction, and we were pleased to see it pick up finer pet hair left behind by other vacuums we tested. The 14-volt lithium-ion battery lasted the duration of our stair cleaning, about 17 minutes on average. The dirt bin is easy to empty and features a filter that improves cleaning performance by capturing dander and fine pet hair. The main drawbacks are the charging time (8 hours before first use) and the absence of a charging dock. 

Get the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser vacuum for stairs at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, Walmart, or Bissell.

This corded Shark is a worthy contender for shoppers who want one vacuum to handle the entire home, stairs included. Thanks to its lift-away pod, what starts as a powerful upright with a 15.4-pound body can be easily converted into a 7.5-pound handheld. While the base unit is heavier than all the other models on this list, it also features advanced swivel steering and self-propelled motion, making it feel much lighter during use. Its 910 watts of suction make it an excellent vacuum for carpeted stairs, and its LED light ensures you don’t miss a single speck. 

In testing, this Shark Rotator vacuum lifted dust and dog hair from both surfaces without issue. The extra-large 12-quart dust cup allowed for long cleaning sessions, and although it took two hands to open, emptying it was relatively easy. Also, the integrated HEPA filter did a great job trapping dust and allergens, helping maintain cleaner indoor air. 

As much as we loved being able to detach the lift-away pod for use on stairs, there are a couple of things to note about it. First, you won’t want to set the pod down mid-clean, as it tips over easily. And second, you can’t use the main brush roller with the lift-away pod; however, we found the smaller turbine brush attachment did an excellent job on our stairs. All in all, this Shark was simple to assemble and reconfigure, comes with useful extras like a crevice tool and a pet multi-tool, and offers ample cleaning power and maneuverability for whole-house cleaning. 

What our tester says: “We were surprised by how much dust and pet hair this vacuum collected in a single pass—and relieved to find none of it tangled in the roller.”— Kristen Mosier, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Shark vacuum for stairs at Amazon, Walmart, or Shark.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Vacuums for Stairs

The best vacuum cleaners for stairs can reduce the amount of dust, allergens, and pet hair on hard surfaces and carpeted staircases. When choosing products to test, we picked a combination of stick, handheld, or combination vacuum cleaner types to meet the needs of various customers and spaces. 

Once they arrived, we assembled each device according to the manufacturer’s instructions, noting the ease of assembly for both the body and attachments. After charging the cordless vacuums we were testing, we carried every model up and down the stairs, noting how hard it was to handle their weight and cords (if applicable). We then used each one to clean a set of stairs with a jute runner and another set of stairs with just hardwood flooring, as well as some area rugs and upholstery. 

To test general cleaning ability, we scattered smaller particles (sand) and larger items (beads and paper scraps), noting efficiency and runtime. We tried out all the attachments and emptied the dust bins, and we even dropped each model a few times on different surfaces to test their durability. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Vacuum for Stairs

With so many options on the market, selecting a good vacuum cleaner for stairs​ can be challenging. It can help to know the differences between canisters and uprights, bagged and bagless, and corded and cordless models, as well as factors like weight and suction power.

Size and Type

A bulky vacuum can be difficult to use when cleaning stairs, so it’s advisable to opt for one that’s slim, lightweight, and easy to maneuver.  

• Upright vacuums allow users to clean without too much bending, but these models can be heavy and prone to toppling over when moving on stairs. Look for one that is well designed and lightweight, with ample cord length. 
• Stick vacuums are slim and lightweight, while the height of the stick minimizes bending—all qualities that make them well suited for stairs. Many are battery-powered, eliminating the need for a cord that can limit distance and pose as a tripping hazard. Some sticks even convert into a handheld, which is great for smaller cleaning tasks.
• Handhelds are the easiest to maneuver since they are generally compact and cordless, but they require users to bend to reach the stairs. Some options may not be powerful enough to pick up all accumulated debris; so those who prefer a handheld should look for one equipped with high-capacity batteries, a powerful airflow system, and a motorized brush roll.
• Canister vacuums, which house the engine and filter in the unit’s body and have a hose and wand attached, can be efficient for stairs. Just make sure to choose one with a long hose that can reach all the way to the top of the stairs to avoid carrying a heavy, cumbersome machine up and down.

Ease of Use

Seniors and those with limited mobility may wish to avoid carrying a heavy model up and down stairs. Stick and upright vacuums are lighter weight and easier to use. Though handhelds are good for getting into tight corners, bending can be difficult and tiresome. 

Cordless stick vacuums are the easiest, most comfortable option. Those who prefer an upright should select one with a swiveling body of 180 degrees or more for less challenging maneuverability in tight stair corners. 

Also, look for an ergonomic handle that feels good to grasp. Easy-access controls are also important; an on/off switch on the handle is ideal, accompanied by foot-controlled buttons and release levers for easy operation. 

Bagged vs. Bagless

There are two options for getting debris out of the vacuum and into the trash: bagged or bagless. 

With bagged vacuum cleaners, users will need to buy replacement bags and change them once full. Debris should be well contained in the bag, with little chance of dust, dirt, and allergens escaping into the air. Bagged vacuums also offer higher capacity, which is helpful for high-traffic spaces that tend to gather more debris, especially in homes inhabited by pets and children.

Bagless versions save the expense of replacement bags, but the dirt that collects in the cup or bin may release allergens into the air during disposal. If this is a concern, look for a bagless model with a sealed dustbin and an integrated high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. The cups/bins on bagless versions can be on the small side, which means more frequent emptying is required, so take this into consideration when evaluating the space.

Cordless vs. Corded

Vacuum cords can be limiting when it comes to cleaning stairs, and cordless models make climbing up and down the stairs a lot easier. Cordless options are easy to use, don’t require an outlet, and can be easily transported to the top of the stairs. Battery power on cordless models typically lasts from 15 minutes to 45 minutes, with pricier options getting closer to the latter. 

When opting for a cordless model, ensure it has a battery life of at least 25 to 30 minutes, allowing you to complete cleaning chores without needing to stop for charging. Once the battery runs down, it will likely require recharging for 3 hours or more. Note that some vacuums are sold with two batteries, allowing one to be used while the other charges, providing ample cleaning time. 

Those in the market for a multi-use vacuum might find a corded model best, since it has a higher capacity and greater suction power can be more effective for large carpeted areas. To avoid lugging the vacuum up and down, choose a model with a long, retractable cord. A 15-foot cord will generally be adequate to reach the top of stairs in most homes. 

Suction Power

The type of floors in the home is an important factor when it comes to the suction power needed. Those with mostly hardwood, tile, or other smooth surfaces and just a few area rugs won’t need as much suction as homes with large areas of carpeting and high-pile rugs. Strong suction power is what allows vacuums to reach deep into carpet fibers and remove deeply embedded debris. 

Some manufacturers tout making a vacuum with great suction, while some brands don’t mention it in their marketing materials at all. To help you compare, consider that vacuums with higher air watts (AW) have more power. Uprights with a 100 AW or more will be sufficient, while cordless models will generally range between 80 and 100 AW. 

Attachments

A vacuum with attachments can help get all areas of your stairs clean. A narrow, pointed crevice tool will assist in cleaning hard-to-reach corners and between railings. A motorized brush attachment can be useful on carpeted stairs, effectively pulling out dust and debris. A pet-hair brush is a plus if a cat or dog lives in the home. 

For hardwood floors and uncarpeted stairs, attachments such as a flat, wide tool with short bristles for sweeping will glide on smooth surfaces without damaging them. A dust brush is handy for light dusting of furniture, blinds, lampshades, and more, and won’t scratch surfaces. 

FAQs 

Even though you’re now armed with excellent shopping intel, you may still have a few questions. The following answers to FAQs on the best vacuums for stairs can help.

Q. How do you vacuum carpet on stairs?

When vacuuming carpeted stairs, first remove any large debris that could clog the vacuum and dust the handrails and stair spindles. Next, attach a crevice tool to clean the corners. 

Once you have finished with the tight spaces, replace the attachment with a wider brush to clean the surface of each step. After vacuuming the flat stair surface, don’t forget to run it over the vertical risers in an up-and-down motion.

Q. How often should you vacuum your stairs?

You should clean your stairs whenever you vacuum your whole house or when you notice accumulated hair and debris.

Q. Is there a robot vacuum for stairs?

No, since a robot vacuum cannot climb steps or access corners easily, there isn’t a good one for use on stairs.

Q. How often should you buy a new vacuum cleaner?

Most vacuums on the market are meant to last for up to 8 years. However, consistent heavy-duty vacuuming can decrease the life and suction of your vacuum cleaner. 

Q. How do you store a vacuum for stairs?

You store a vacuum for stairs like you would any other vacuum. Put it in an easily accessible location like a closet, cabinet, or under the staircase to keep it out of the way but within quick reach. If storage space is limited, consider wall-mounting stick vacuums near the stairs or dedicating a small shelf or bin close to the stairwell for handheld models.

Q. How do you maintain a vacuum for stairs?

Even the best vacuum for stairs will need a bit of maintenance. Generally speaking, you’ll need to empty the dust container regularly, clean or replace filters as needed, and check brush rolls and attachments for hair or debris to ensure optimal suction and performance.

Q. How important is the weight of a vacuum for cleaning stairs?

Weight is one of the most important aspects of a vacuum for cleaning stairs. Lightweight models are easier to carry and maneuver on steps, reducing arm and back strain, while heavier vacuums can make stair cleaning tiring and potentially even dangerous.

Meet the Testers

A home design and renovation enthusiast, Kristen Mosier has worked on editorial teams and as a freelance writer for various home improvement and women’s health publications. She began writing for BobVila.com in the summer of 2020 and has covered topics ranging from her DIY projects and product reviews to shopping guides, news articles, and design pieces. Kristen’s second career as a psychotherapist gives her a unique perspective, allowing her to speak to the mental health and relational aspects of homeownership and remodeling.

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Katie Barton has over 10 years of experience in product writing, has tested dozens of cleaning products, and has authored hundreds of articles for major media outlets. Her cleaning and organizing advice has been featured on GOBankingRates, Realtor.com, Yahoo!, Cabin Life, and more. She takes an unbiased approach to product testing, using each product multiple times or for several days/weeks to determine efficacy. Her goal is to help readers decide which products are worth their hard-earned money and which fall flat.

 

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