Handheld vacuum cleaners Black & Decker Dustbuster Eco Extreme DV1205

This Dustbuster aims to keep energy use at a minimum

Black & Decker claims that its new Eco Extreme handheld vacuum cleaner uses 66% less energy than a standard hand vac.

We’ve tried out the model, part of a 2009 range marking the 30th anniversary of the Black & Decker Dustbuster, but can’t comment on its energy-saving credentials.

We got around eight minutes of continuous vacuuming from one charge. It picked up dust and larger bits and pieces such as crumbs or tiny stones from hard surfaces. The nose also extends, making it easier to reach into smaller spaces. There’s a narrower nozzle and tiny brush attachment clipped into the bottom of the vac which helps if you’re trying to lift fluff or thread from material or carpeted surfaces. It struggles a little with longer hairs, though.

The charging unit can be laid flat or wall mounted. A red light shows when it’s charging and this blinks when the vac is fully charged.

It’s reasonably quiet for a handheld vac, but a bit heavy if you use it for the full length of its charge. You’re most likely to hold it with the nose tilted downwards, and in this position it’s fairly well balanced and comfortable to use.

The on/off switch is within easy reach of the handle but you might find it a little stiff to use with just your thumb so you may need to switch it on and off with your other hand.

The cleaner isn’t as easy to move around in tight spaces as you might hope – it proved difficult to vacuum round car seats, a common problem for many handheld vacs. Unsurprisingly, pick-up isn’t as good as a regular vacuum cleaner as the handheld seems to have less suction power.

Pros: Extendible nozzle, brush head attachment, reasonably quiet

Cons: A little heavy, no mains adaptor for prolonged continuous use