Short on time? These are the top picks for the best vacuum cleaner for stairs:

When it comes to cleaning a house, stairs are often the trickiest to clean. So much so that many people don’t bother cleaning them. Their smaller surface area, combined with multiple corners, means that you need specific tools to clean them. Because of this, many homeowners wonder how to best clean a flight of stairs.

One excellent way to do this is to use a powerful handheld vacuum cleaner to suck up the dirt, especially on carpeted stairs. But with so many options available, it can be confusing to choose one. In this post, we review the best vacuum cleaners for stairs to help you clean one of the most neglected areas of a house.

Comparison Table

How to Choose the Best Vacuum Cleaner for Stairs

Cleaning smaller areas, like stairs, requires precision and accuracy from the vacuum cleaner. The right model should be able to pick up small pockets of dirt from each stair step, especially from carpeted stairs. With that said, these are the most important factors to consider when buying the best vacuum cleaner for stairs:

1. Lightweight and Portable

One of the most, if not the most, important factor when choosing the best vacuum cleaner for stairs is its portability. The right vacuum should be light enough for you to carry around your house, and ultimately, up the stairs. If you have long stairs, you may find it difficult to use a vacuum cleaner that is heavy.

Think about it, if you have to carry a heavy machine up a flight of stairs, you would probably be tired and would not clean effectively. In other words, to best clean your stairs, choose a vacuum cleaner that is both lightweight and portable. You’ll be surprised that some models are even as light as 1.1 lbs.

2. Delivers Powerful Suction

In addition to being small, the best vacuums for stairs should be powerful as well. There’s no point in using a vacuum cleaner that will not pick up dirt effectively. You never know what types of dirt can be found on your stairs. While fine dust is easy to clean, bigger particles like sand or cereal need more suction effort.

Therefore, choosing a small, but powerful vacuum should be one of your top priorities. Thankfully, many brands are developing stronger suction power. You can be sure that every vacuum cleaner on this list delivers not only superior suction, but has excellent filtration capabilities as well. 

3. Excellent Battery Life

For this list, we’ve decided to go for cordless vacuums only. The reason is simple, cordless vacuums offer convenience and portability compared to their corded counterparts. However, because cordless vacuums run on batteries, you have to choose one with excellent battery life for longer-lasting power.

PRO TIP: Cordless and handheld vacuums are excellent when it comes to quick cleaning. However, if you are looking for an all-around, whole-house cleaning performance, you should invest in the best upright vacuum cleaners. We’ve narrowed it down to the top five picks to help you make the best buying decision. 

4. Affordable Price

Last but not least, the best vacuum cleaner for stairs should be cheap and affordable. Because handheld vacuums are designed for specific cleaning, in this case for stair-cleaning, we don’t see the point of buying a vacuum cleaner that would cost you $150 or more. After all, you want to save money, right?

Nonetheless, a cheap vacuum does not mean it’s low quality. There’s no point in buying a vacuum cleaner that would break down after a month or two. You can have peace of mind knowing that every vacuum cleaner on this list is made by reputable brands and offers outstanding quality.

Best Vacuum Cleaner for Stairs Reviews

1. Black and Decker 20V Max Flex Handheld Vacuum

Our number one pick for the best vacuum cleaner for stairs is the Black and Decker Max Flex Handheld Vacuum. The combination of its high performance motor and long-lasting lithium ion battery delivers powerful suction for stair-cleaning. Here are the key features of the Black and Decker Max Flex Vacuum:

• Excellent Suction - superior suction power despite its small and portable size
• Flexible Extension - up to 4 feet of flexible extension hose for floor to ceiling cleaning
• Generous Capacity - easy to empty, washable bowl and filter for thorough cleaning
• Special Brush - comes with a special brush to clean carpets, stairs, and upholstery

What we like about this vacuum cleaner: Before we talk about its features, we just want to say, this is the quintessential mini and portable handheld vacuum. If you are looking for the ultimate tool to clean small surface areas, like stairs, this vacuum cleaner is it. This little vacuum packs a punch.

Honestly, we were surprised at how powerful and convenient this little vacuum is. We especially love the thin nozzle for getting into hard-to-reach places. Without the special hose, a vacuum may have limited use in tighter spaces. Not this one. With its 4 feet flexible extension, you can clean stairs, even ceilings, effectively.

Why this vacuum cleaner is perfect for stairs: Apart from its powerful suction, there are two things that come to mind when using this Black and Decker Max Flex Vacuum Cleaner. Number one is the flexible hose extension, and number two is the additional brush designed to clean carpets, stairs, and upholstery.

Because of its small size, you can simply carry it around with one hand. You can also use the special  brush to force more stubborn dirt out of most surfaces. Add in the fact that it comes with a generous 17 oz. washable bowl and filter for easy cleaning, and you may have found a vacuum that’s hard to beat.

Final Verdict: If you simply want the best vacuum for stairs, the Black and Decker 20V Max Flex Vacuum Cleaner is the one to buy. The combination of its petite size, yet powerful suction makes this vacuum a mini powerhouse. It comes with a charging base so you can easily store it in small spaces.

2. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum

Coming in at number two is one of the most popular products in the marketplace. Designed by Bissell to clean dirt from tight spaces, its powerful motorized brush will help you rid stains from stairs, especially carpeted stairs, effectively. These are the key features of the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum:

• Superior Suction - excellent suction power despite its small and portable size
• Triple Level Filtration - great filtration system help keeps allergens at bay
• Large Capacity - large bin holds more dirt and makes emptying dirt and debris easy
• Special Tools - three additional tools (motorized brush, upholstery tool, crevice tool)

What we like about this vacuum cleaner: Where do we even start? This small vacuum is packed with amazing features. To start, we love that this product comes with specialized cleaning tools which include: Motorized Brush Tool, Upholstery Tool, and Crevice Tool. Anything you need, this mini vacuum got it.

When it comes to storing dust and dirt, Bissell definitely knows what it's doing. This cordless vacuum is equipped with triple level filtration that will store harmful particles and allergens safely. Additionally, its large, easy-to-empty dirt bin holds more dirt and makes emptying the contents super easy.

Why this vacuum cleaner is perfect for stairs: This vacuum cleaner is a game-changer. If you have trouble cleaning carpeted stairs, this Bissell Cordless Vacuum will clean them quickly, thoroughly, and easily. Just use the motorized brush attachment, and the job is done before you even know it.

Additionally, you can use the crevice tool to easily clean loose litter knocked into corners and baseboards. You can also use the upholstery tool to clean fabric and furniture easily. It does seem to take a while to charge, but once it is, this small Bissell Handheld Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful sucker (no pun intended).

Final Verdict: This little sucker packs a punch in terms of cleaning tight spaces. Because of the super useful three attachments that come with your purchase, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is simply one of the best vacuum cleaners for stairs. No wonder it’s such a favorite on Amazon.

3. Shark WV201 WANDVAC Handheld Vacuum

For number three, we are going small in size. Introducing the Shark WANDVAC Vacuum that is no bigger than 1.4 lbs in weight. Don’t be fooled by its miniscule appearance, as this innovative cleaning tool is not only powerful, but convenient as well. Here are the key features of the Shark WV201 WANDVAC Handheld Vacuum:

• Excellent Suction - superior suction power despite its small and portable size
• Ultra Lightweight - small hand vacuum at just 1.4 pounds for super easy cleaning
• Accurate and Precise - tapered nozzle for easy pickup of large debris and fine dust
• Super Convenient - fast charging and convenient charging dock for quick access

What we like about this vacuum cleaner: At first glance, this mini handheld vacuum cleaner looks like a modern-day lightsaber (perfect for Star Wars fans). However, make no mistake. What it lacks in size, it makes up for it in sheer suction power. This ultra mini vacuum cleaner is as useful and effective as it can be. 

At only 1.4 pounds, it delivers extraordinary power for the everyday mess. As it turns out, we are not the only ones raving about its unique design, as this WANDVAC vacuum cleaner won the iF World Design Award in 2019. This goes to show how you can rely on this smart device to get any cleaning job done in a hurry.

Why this vacuum cleaner is perfect for stairs: Personally, we feel like the Shark WANDVAC Handheld Vacuum is not only ideal for cleaning stairs, but it's also perfect for quickly cleaning up spills and dirt from the floor, to the ceiling as well. It includes attachable accessories to clean in crevices and on upholstery.

If ever you managed to make your stairs dirty, simply pick up the WANDVAC and suck the heck out of any dust and dirt easily. Once you are done, use the one-touch emptying system for quick, easy dust cup maintenance. You don’t have to get your hands dirty, making cleaning easy as one, two, three.

Final Verdict: All in all, the Shark WV201 WANDVAC Handheld Vacuum is a revolutionary tool. Gone are the days when cleaning requires heavy vacuum cleaners. This small and petite tool is the epitome of innovation. If you want the most modern, most sleek, and the simplest operation, buy this one. Your stairs will thank you.

4. Black and Decker Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum

Moving on to number four, we are going back to the Black and Decker brand. This time, the original Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum takes center stage. Known as one of the originals in the industry, it is one of the most powerful handheld vacuums. These are the key features of the Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum:

• Superior Suction - excellent suction power despite its small and portable size
• Excellent Filtration - cyclonic action helps to keep the filter clean and power strong
• Slim Nozzle - slim and thin nozzle fits into tight spaces making cleaning dirt easy
• Easy to Clean - translucent dirt bowl is very easy to empty and clean

What we like about this vacuum cleaner: What got our attention from this compact vacuum is its rotating slim nozzle with a built in crevice tool and flip up brush. It is ideal for everyday quick cleaning of dust, pet hair, and crumbs. Moreover, the cyclonic filtration helps keep dirt off the filter for long-lasting suction power.

With its stylish design and washable bowl and filter, you can confidently display this vacuum in the living or dining room, keeping it handy when and where you need it most. The unit empties in one, mess-free step and comes with a charging base and a charge indicator light. It also weighs less than three pounds.

Why this vacuum cleaner is perfect for stairs: Having tested different compact vacuums through the years, this vacuum is up there with the best of them, It picks up small stones and sand scattered around with ease, and cleans carpeted stairs very well when you want to give the house a quick clean.

It can be annoying to see crumbs and small debris on the floor. Even when you don’t clean it everyday, it can be a hassle to take care of the mess, especially with a bigger vacuum. Enter this compact handheld vacuum. Anytime there’s dirt on the floor or the stairs, just turn it on. And in 30 seconds, all dirt is gone.

Final Verdict: So, if you don't want the hassle of getting out your bigger vacuum for quick cleaning jobs, the Black and Decker Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum is the perfect vacuum. Just be mindful that this compact vacuum cleaner is designed for small jobs, like cleaning stairs, and not for whole-house cleaning.

5. VacLife Mini Hand Vacuum

Last but not least, we are going as small as possible. Weighing in at only 1.1 pounds, this mini hand vacuum is the smallest on this list. Despite its miniature size, however, it is truly dynamite. It is also one of the most underrated brands on Amazon. Here are the key features of the VacLife Mini Hand Vacuum:

• Excellent Suction - superior suction power despite its small and portable size
• Ultra Lightweight - small hand vacuum at just 1.1 pounds for super easy cleaning
• Washable HEPA Filter - filter and mesh cover can be detached and washed easily
• Super Convenient - fast charging and convenient charging dock for quick access

What we like about this vacuum cleaner: Right off the bat, one of the features we like the most is the two speeds. If you only need a quick clean, you can use the regular mode with up to 8 kPa of suction power. However, if you need to get more done, use the power boost mode with up to 12 kPa of suction power.

In addition to its functional two speeds, we particularly enjoy the washable HEPA filter. You can rinse it with water or simply brush it, if needed. To empty the contents, you can simply clean the dust cup filter by tapping it against a garbage can or sink. However, you should replace the HEPA filter after a month or two.

Why this vacuum cleaner is perfect for stairs: The VacLife Handheld Vacuum is able to clean hard-to-reach cleaning areas such as wall corners, window corners, keyboards, stairs, and tight gaps. Due to its small size, you can also bring it with you anywhere you go. Perfect for the home, office, or the car.

If you need to quickly clean your stairs, just grab this sleek vacuum with one hand and suck the dirt out of each step. Oh, and we haven’t even talked about the price yet. It is the most affordable on this list. All in all, you will be immediately impressed by the suction performance of this small and handy vacuum. 

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Final Verdict: If you want the best bang for your buck, buy the VacLife Mini Hand Vacuum. What more can you ask from an affordable mini vacuum packed with excellent suction power? It is arguably the best value for its price vacuum cleaner for stairs, and is as good as it gets for such a tiny vacuum.

Best Vacuum Cleaner for Stairs Honorable Mention

Hoover ONEPWR Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

We want to give the Hoover ONEPWR Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner for almost making it into the top five of the best vacuum cleaners for stairs. It is a reliable handheld vacuum which boasts on its super durable battery power. The charging base displays the charging status and is very attractive.

One feature that caught our eye is the functional shape of this vacuum. For a handheld vacuum cleaner, it has a relatively big dirt cup and a comfortable handle. Moreover, it has excellent suction power and a crevice tool that can reach shallow and deep areas, including stairs. Using this is as easy as it can be.

However, the reason that this vacuum did not make the top five is because it doesn’t have attachments, like a brush and flex hose attachment. While the crevice tool can clean tighter areas, the absence of a brush and flex hose attachment reduces the cleaning potential of this Hoover handheld vacuum.

To summarize, the Hoover ONEPWR Cordless Hand Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent vacuum cleaner, mainly due to its removable battery. Because the battery is not built-in, you can easily replace them if they wear out. Overall, if you want to enjoy the best battery performance, this vacuum is one of the best.

Final Verdict

And there you have it, the complete reviews of the best vacuum cleaners for stairs. Our team had an amazing time researching and testing every product on this list. We know first-hand how important it is to clean stairs thoroughly, especially carpeted stairs. With that said, here’s the full recap of our extensive list:

The best vacuum cleaner for stairs is the Black and Decker 20V Max Flex Handheld Vacuum. If you want the all-encompassing and most powerful vacuum for cleaning carpeted stairs, this product is it. You can never go wrong by buying this vacuum cleaner, simply because of the reputation of this brand.

If you like to have different cleaning tools combined in one device, then buy the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum. You will enjoy this product because it comes with specialized cleaning tools which include: Motorized Brush Tool, Upholstery Tool, and Crevice Tool. Anything you need, this thing’s got it.

However, if budget is your main priority, then buy the VacLife Mini Hand Vacuum. The insanely low price is hard to believe. What more can you ask from a super affordable mini vacuum packed with excellent suction power? It is arguably the best value for its price vacuum cleaner for stairs.

At the end of the day, cleaning your home, especially your stairs, is all about choosing the best tools. Thankfully, many excellent home cleaning products are becoming more affordable by the day. With that said, you can now shop with confidence after reading our best vacuum cleaner for stairs reviews. 🙂

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