Handheld vacuums should be more noticed. But the thing is, these vacuums might be the only vacuum that you need. Find out why.
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So in the world of vacuum cleaners, it is easy to prioritize more powerful, more technologically advanced vacuums than their “ordinary” counterparts. Of course, that’s understandable. After all, our cleaning needs are different. Many people need vacuum cleaners that can do thorough, foolproof cleaning without spending too much time.
Handheld vacuums, on the other hand, aren’t designed for these rugged cleaning tasks. But it has several advantages, such as its portability and versatility. It is also a good cleaning tool for certain applications, especially if you are dwelling within a small space.
The point here is that you don’t need a burly upright or canister vacuum all the time. Handheld vacuums may be dwindling in popularity, but they are still useful in certain cases.
What Are Handheld Vacuum Cleaners
Essentially, handheld vacuums are cordless vacuum cleaners. But unlike the standard cordless vacuums, handheld vacuums are smaller in size. All the components of a vacuum are integrated into their bodies, such as the motor, cleaning head, filter, and handle.
Because of their compact construction, handheld vacuums are lightweight and convenient to maneuver. As their name suggests, these handheld vacuums can be operated using one hand. So it is a great option for those who have weak hands, injuries, or other conditions that prevent them from exerting effort.
But things are not all bright and beautiful for handheld vacuum cleaners. Before we go to the advantages of handheld vacuums, it is essential that we highlight some of their limitations.
Disadvantages Of Handheld Vacuums
So there are some reasons why handheld vacuums are not as popular as upright vacuums or stick vacuums. Despite offering the “cordless” advantages, there are some things that made it lag behind the competition.
But take note: these limitations don’t make these handheld vacuums bad. Instead, they are just objective reminders that handheld vacuums may not fit your existing requirements.
Handheld Vacuums Have Minimal Suction Power
This one is quite understandable. Handheld vacuums are great because of their portability, but they don’t possess impressive suction power. The reason for this is because of the size of their motors or engines. They can’t draw enough power for thorough carpet cleaning. Hence, you should not expect that they can produce a squeaky clean result on your floors or surfaces.
Handheld Vacuums Have Limited Coverage
Unless there’s a cleaning head attachment, the coverage of these handheld vacuums remains limited. Specifically, they are not capable of cleaning large spaces. Of course, that’s the very reason why they are only suitable for spot-cleaning small areas.
This matter also ties to the first point that we have raised. Since handheld vacuums don’t have strong suction, it is recommended that they will only be used for cleaning small areas. That’s the only time you can experience the efficiency of these vacuum cleaners.
Handheld Vacuums Have Limited Runtime
Most handheld vacuums today are cordless vacuums. It’s pretty rare to see corded models, anyway. While there are absolute benefits in using cordless vacuums, keep in mind that they have restricted runtime. Depending on the battery and motor of the vacuum, the average runtime of these cordless models ranges from 25 minutes to 45 minutes.
But this is not the only issue with these battery-operated appliances. Aside from the limited runtime, their suction power can become inconsistent, especially if the batteries are about to get empty.
Reasons Why You Might Only Need Handheld Vacuums
With the given limitations of handheld vacuum cleaners, many people think that there are no more reasons to get them.
But you should cut that idea. You see, there are great benefits that these handheld vacuum cleaners provide. And more often than not, they are a worthy acquisition, especially if you pair them with traditional vacuums.
Meanwhile, here are some situations that could justify that these handheld vacuums are more than enough for you.
They Are Great For Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is actually a difficult task for large vacuums. After all, their cleaning heads are too oversized for this particular application. At the same time, they have limited maneuverability as well.
On the other hand, handheld vacuums can be pointed in a single location without any fuss. Even if the area in question is on the top of your tables and furniture, these handheld vacuums will be able to spot-clean them. With that being said, you would love these handheld vacuums if you have pets or children in your house. These creatures like to leave a mess in certain portions of your rooms!
They Are Ideal For Small Living Spaces
Another important aspect of these handheld vacuum cleaners is their compact size. And as the adage goes, you should never underestimate these little things.
Upright and canister vacuums are great for large abodes. But in areas where floor space is downright limited, these large vacuum cleaners aren’t welcomed. You don’t need these burly vacuums if your area of jurisdiction is just limited. They just waste precious storage space. At the same time, purchasing these handheld vacuums will save you lots of money!
They Offer Excellent Maneuverability
Buying cleaning tools like vacuum cleaners require special considerations. For instance, not all people can lift canisters and upright vacuums. Even standard stick vacuums can be too much for elderly people or individuals with physical limitations due to injuries or disabilities.
The maneuverability of handheld vacuum cleaners is derived from their weight and size. Since they are small and light, you would be able to use them comfortably. This is the kind of ergonomics that only a handheld vacuum cleaner can provide. And since they are cordless, you don’t need to plug them into any outlets.
They Are Great For Pet Hair
Sure. The suction power of handheld vacuums is limited. But this doesn’t mean that they can’t tackle pet hair and debris. As I’ve mentioned, these vacuum cleaners are great for spot cleaning. And interestingly, spot cleaning is the best way to capture lingering pet hair.
You see, pet hair doesn’t only scatter on your floors. Due to being featherlight, they can float around. Hence, there’s a possibility that they can settle on the surfaces of chairs, tables, and furniture. Upright and canister vacuums might not be able to reach these specks of dirt. On the other hand, you can easily lift these handheld vacuums, ensuring that no hair or fur can escape its grasp.
By the way, these handheld vacuums may have special cleaning attachments for pet hair removal. You should take advantage of them!
They Are Portable
One of the most obvious advantages of these handheld vacuum cleaners is their portability. Basically, you can use them outside of your house. You can bring them to your garage, vehicle, and other places that aren’t your home.
Sure. You might not think of this as a big deal. But once in a while, you will find yourself wanting to clean up the mess on the floor and upholstery of your vehicle. In this particular situation, only a handheld vacuum cleaner can help you out.
They Are Easy To Empty
There’s also an added benefit when it comes to owning handheld vacuums. Compared to other vacuums that would require you to wrestle with their dirt cups or bags, these handheld vacuums will give you a simple time.
They are designed to have a user-friendly mechanism for emptying their contents. You simply have to open the lid of the dirt container and throw the accumulated rubbish in your bin or garden. This approach enables you to clean the mess without having the need to get in contact with the dirt. That’s pretty hygienic, right?
They Are Affordable
Handheld vacuums have come a long way in recent years and are now more affordable than ever. Whether you’re looking for something to keep in your car for quick cleanups or you need a powerful option for cleaning up your home, there’s a handheld vacuum to fit your needs.
In short, handheld vacuums are an entry-level cleaning solution for small spaces and portable applications. They can serve as a backup to your standard vacs, as well. And you can do this without busting your wallet.
Recommended Picks For The Best Handheld Vacuums
Of course, not all handheld vacuums are the same. Some are good, and others are bad. That’s the reality of the market, anyway. So if you really want to experience the full benefits of handheld vacuums, you have to make sure that you get a good one right from the get-go.
Below are some of our recommended picks for a handheld vacuum. We lifted these units among the crowd because of their overall performance and quality. If you are looking for a handheld vac for your home, car, or office, these ones should be your first choice.
Product Image | Model Name | Rating | Where To Buy |
BLACK+DECKER dustbuster AdvancedClean | 4.5 / 5 | Amazon | |
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser | 4.6 / 5 | Amazon | |
Shark WV201 WANDVAC | 4.5 / 5 | Amazon |
Final Thoughts
Handheld vacuums are a great way to keep your home clean, without having to lug around a heavy vacuum cleaner. They are perfect for cleaning up small messes, and can even be used to clean your car. Handheld vacuums are relatively inexpensive, and can be found at most major retailers.
Hence, it’s evident that acquiring these machines isn’t a waste of time (and money). By all means, good handheld vacuum cleaners can keep your spaces spot-free.