Vacuum cleaners: How to buy the best vacuum cleaner Cordless vacuum cleaners
Cordless vacuum cleaners are lightweight and rechargeable
More robust than a handheld vacuum cleaner but smaller, lighter and without the wires of a full-size model, cordless vacuum cleaners – also known as stick vacuum cleaners – can make quick work of lighter tasks.
We've reviewed four models – the Lakeland 2-in-1 Cyclonic, the Vax Life U91-LF-B, the AEG-Electrolux Ergorapido and the Rowenta Air Force. See the Rowenta Air Force in action in our video review and find out how each fared in our stick vacuum cleaners report.
Cordless vacuum cleaners explained
Cordless vacuum cleaners can be a good option to consider if you're looking for a light vacuum cleaner alternative for quick clear-up jobs. But don't expect them to give you the same performance or cleaning power you get from a standard upright or cylinder vac.
They're usually slimline and rechargeable and, because of their smaller size, easy to store. They're best suited to regular vacuuming tasks – though we recorded some mixed results between models for manoeuvrability and picking up fluff during our cordless vacuum cleaner tests.
Cordless vacuum cleaner checklist
Looking to buy a cordless vacuum cleaner? Here are some factors to consider:
Weight
Stick vacs are by design lighter than a standard vacuum cleaner, but if you're in a shop it's worth picking up a few different models to compare their weight.
Price
Prices depend on the model you go for, with RRPs on the four stick vacs we've tested ranging from £70 up to £200. The cheapest Which? Best Buy full-sized vacuum cleaner is around £100 – so, if price rather than space is your main priority, it could be worth comparing what you'd get for your money if you bought a cylinder or upright model.
Charge life
Before you buy, check how long the vacuum cleaner takes to recharge and how long the average battery life is before you need to charge it again. Battery life varies between models with most lasting around 15 minutes, but there are some available that last as long as 45 minutes.
Extra features
There's more to some cordless vacuum cleaners than meets the eye. Some models offer different options for vacuuming carpets or wooden flooring, while the AEG-Electrolux Ergorapido features a detachable handheld vac for two-in-one flexibility. Other extras to look out for include cleaning attachments, light indicators to tell you when the vac is fully charged and models with an easily detachable dust container for quick emptying.
Stick vac storage
Cordless vacuum cleaners are a popular choice with homeowners short on space. Some models have extra space-saving features that could come in handy if you've got limited storage – look out for ultra slimline models, folding or detachable handles and small charger bases no bigger than the vacuum cleaner head.
