Vacuums come in all shapes and sizes as well as various power options. For the most power and best versatility, though, corded vacuums still rank higher than battery powered models.
Which is the best corded stick vacuum?
That is what I aim to find out. With research, testing and consumer reviews, the best models quickly rose to the top.
Here, I will uncover the best corded models and review them for you. I will also provide a buyer’s guide and general tips and tricks to get the most out of your next vacuum.
Top 5 Corded Stick Vacuums
The best corded vacuums as rated by reviews, research, cost, value and versatility are:
- Shark Rocket Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner. Best for carpets with onboard tools and excellent suction.
- Bissell PowerEdge Pet. Ideal for edges, corners and pet hair.
- VonHaus 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum. Complete vacuum system with many accessories.
- Bissell Featherweight Corded Vacuum. Powerful and easy to use for any mess.
- Shark Rocket DuoClean Corded Stick Vacuum. Easy to use, lightweight and highly maneuverable.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in a Corded Stick Vacuum
It is important to take all the information you can gather and make sure you know exactly what you are getting before you buy. Below are several factors you should consider before you pull out your credit card.
Floor Type
The types of floors you intend to clean will play a deciding factor in the machine you ultimately purchase. Even if you have all hard flooring it is important to pick the right model.
Low and medium pile carpeting make better use of models with rotating brush rollers. These agitate the carpet and help loosen stuck in debris.
On hard flooring, though, rotating brushes can scratch some surfaces. It is best to get a stick vacuum without a brush roller. For the best of both worlds, though, a power brush roller with the ability to turn off and on will suit almost any home perfectly.
Versatility
Some stick vacuums lack in the versatility department. Even though they may have great power, they lack things like multi-position handles, attachments and tools, or even pivoting cleaning heads.
While these things aren’t essential, they do make the cleaning process easier and don’t add any cost to the price tag. It would be a shame to buy a model that is less capable for the same price.
Collection Method
When it comes to debris collection you have two factors to consider. How the vacuum lifts and separates the debris and how it stores it.
Most vacuums will use straight suction created by the motor. For those with a lot of carpet, though, you may want to look for models that offer vortex suction. This has many names, wind tunnels, cyclone suction, etc.
The result, though, is less clogging and more suction while the vacuum is being used.
You also need to consider how the dirt and debris are stored. Most modern models will use a bagless canister design. These collection bins are easy to empty but can become difficult to keep clean.
Bagged models add cost to the machine and need constant replacement. The choice is yours, of course, just make sure you know what you are getting.
Filtration Type
For most homes, the filtration won’t matter. The primary reason for a filter is to prevent dust build up in the motor area. The secondary purpose is to help purify the air while you are cleaning.
If you suffer allergies, you may want to opt for a model with HEPA filtration. HEPA filters capture particles down to 3 microns in size, effectively eliminating in-home allergens.
As long as you know the replacement costs and intervals for these filters, or if they are washable or not, will go a long way to making the right decision for your specific needs and budget.
Other Cleaning Options
Some models will entice you with additional features that make the process more complete or easier. It is always a good idea to weigh the value of these features with the overall cost, compared to a similar model without them.
In almost every situation, though, the value ratio will make the additional features worthwhile. These can include multiple cleaning methods (upright, removable hand held, etc.) or even the tools it includes.
Crevice tools, hoses, overhead cleaning items and upholstery tools are a great addition and allow you to clean more than your floors.
Price and Warranty of Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaners
Of course, the final cost is going to be important too. Models on this best of list range from $30 to over $100. Getting the best deal that fits your budget is crucial to your bottom line as well as your enjoyment, at least as much enjoyment as one can get from chores.
You should also make sure you understand the warranty, if any, that comes with your new vacuum. You should know how long it lasts, when it starts (at purchase or upon delivery) as well as what it takes to make a claim.
8 Best Corded Stick Vacuums 2022
Below you will find our 8 favorite corded stick vacuums. Each one rated, reviewed and compared to offer you the best information so you can make the perfect decision.
1. Eureka Blaze 3-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum
The Eureka Blaze is a multi-purpose vacuum that works effectively at ground level. There aren’t any extension wands or hoses to clean over head, but what it does for floors more than makes up for it.
This is one of the least expensive models on the list, and for that reason gets a second look. What you find upon reexamination though, is a great vacuum for hard flooring surfaces and low pile carpet.
You don’t need to worry about scratching your hard flooring as there isn’t a brush roller. The suction head also has a design that allows larger debris to pass under and be collected. Most models push larger debris around or need to be lifted.
The 18-foot power cord also means less time finding another outlet and more time cleaning the floors. But there is more. You can use the onboard tool (yes, you only get one) to clean crevices and in between couch cushions.
The upright handle removes easily to convert to a handheld, with or without the suction head. This makes it easy to clean off furniture, counter tops, and quick spills that need immediate attention.
At only 4 pounds, the vacuum is lightweight enough to clean your entire home in one go and comfortable enough to not cause fatigue while using.
| Pros | Cons |
| Lightweight and comfortable | Only comes with a crevice tool attachment |
| Easily collects larger debris | Smaller collection bin needs emptying more often |
| Converts to handheld in seconds | |
| Highly affordable |
2. Bissell PowerEdge Pet
If your home has mainly hard flooring, then the Bissell PowerEdge is worthy of a closer inspection. Instead of brushes or spinning power heads, you get rubber squeegees to collect dirt, dust and debris.
The cleaning head has a unique V-shape that allows you to clean in hard to reach areas, around table legs and corners. It also uses a wide collection channel designed for larger debris in the center and smaller debris along the edges.
The squeegees are efficient enough to roll up and collect pet hair without having to scrub the floor or vacuum the same area twice.
You may find that this vacuum is not great at cleaning carpet. It will take off the top layer of larger debris from low pile carpet, but this is a quick-spill, last resort type of carpet cleaner.
On hard flooring though, you won’t find much better. The suction power is great, the unit is lightweight and it has a moderately sized collection bin. It does weigh under 8 pounds and can be easily maneuvered. The V-shape cleaning head does take some getting used to.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable vacuum | No HEPA filtration |
| Powerful suction | Hard flooring only |
| Low maintenance | |
| Collects pet hair quickly |
3. VonHaus 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum
If you are looking for more of an entire house cleaning machine, then VonHaus has the answer. This 2-in-1 comes with a lot of extras and easily converts from an upright to a handheld.
The lightweight vacuum is powerful enough to clean pet hair and get in between your couch cushions. It also comes with an extension hose, a mini brush, crevice tool and a shoulder strap.
For those that want above head cleaning, the VonHaus makes it simple. To clean your floors, the powerful suction will clean top layers of carpeting or your entire hard flooring surface with ease.
It isn’t without some issues, though. The affordable vacuum does have some small issues with the handle. Some reports claim the handle is difficult to remove and becomes loose after a few uses. Most of these claims also come from using the locking mechanism wrong, according to VonHaus.
It does have a HEPA filter, but it is a two part filter. There is a HEPA sleeve that attaches to the main filter for fine particle collection. The filters do not have a long life and should be replaced every 60 days. Though you can remove and clean them (do not use water) to extend the life a few weeks.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable vacuum | Handle may cause some issues |
| Comes with multiple attachments | Filters don’t have a long life span |
| Low maintenance | |
| Above-head cleaning capable |
4. Bissell Featherweight Corded Vacuum
For a lightweight, simple cleaning stick vacuum, there isn’t much better than the Bissell Featherweight. As the name implies, this lightweight vacuum comes in at under 3.5 pounds.
The handle can be removed to transform it into a handheld, and the suction head also removes to use as a stair cleaner or a furniture vacuum.
The cord is only 15-feet, which a lot of people find too small, though it does wrap nicely on the cord holder. This model also comes with a single attachment, the crevice tool. Used to get in hard to reach areas or even some moderate overhead cleaning.
It does come with a washable cone filter, though replacements are difficult to come by. Until you find a couple to purchase, it isn’t recommended that you wash the filter. A light brushing will keep the airflow going in the meantime.
Unlike the PowerEdge model listed above, the Featherweight has a straight cleaning head and doesn’t clean as well around furniture legs. However, the head is low profile and gets in tighter spaces more easily. You can also use it to clean the stairs, under your bed or above head.
| Pros | Cons |
| Extremely lightweight | Short power cord |
| Cost effective solution | Replacement filters are hard to find |
| Cleans stairs and furniture |
5. Shark Rocket Stick Vacuum Cleaner
If you are looking for a corded stick vacuum that can replace your standard upright, Shark offers you the Rocket. This powerful cleaning machine converts from an upright to a hand held for an entire home clean.
The motorized brush roll is excellent at agitating carpet and will get a deep clean on low and medium-pile carpeting. The powered cleaning head can be turned off when cleaning hard flooring as well, thus preventing damage or scratching.
The Shark Rocket also boasts a swivel head so you can easily maneuver around table legs, between chairs and under couches or beds.
You can remove the motorized cleaning head to use the extension wand for above head cleaning. You will also find that removing the wand and converting to a handheld model is ideal for furniture and quick messes.
The entire unit also has multiple storage options. Leaving everything attached, you can hang the vacuum from the storage hook. If you don’t have space to hang the vacuum, you can also remove the handheld unit and store it on the wand and cleaning head, which acts as a shelf.
The Shark Rocket also comes with a pet hair tool, crevice tool and precision duster. Combined, you can use these attachments, the wand and the cleaning head for floors, ceilings, fans, upholstery, automobiles, and much more. A total clean no matter how you look at it.
| Pros | Cons |
| Versatile and maneuverable | No HEPA filtration |
| Converts and stores easily | |
| High power suction for all floor types |
6. Hoover Linx Corded Stick Vacuum
The Hoover Linx is a powerful cleaning vacuum that uses cyclonic technology to increase suction and lift debris without clogging. It doesn’t use HEPA filtration, but the washable filters keep larger particles contained.
The cleaning head uses a motorized brush roller that can be switched off, so it is capable of cleaning hard flooring surfaces without damage. When on, it will clean carpeting with agitation and increased suction. It is ideal for low-pile and tight-woven carpet, as well as hard flooring.
If you want to clean your stairs, the cleaning head is small enough to do so while the unit itself is lightweight for easy lifting. The cyclonic wind tunnel suction technology helps the vacuum from getting clogged.
When blockages do happen it is simple to empty and maintain. The collection bin is a moderate size and won’t need to be emptied after every use. However, the filter does need to be cleaned and rinsed on a regular basis.
The cleaning head is low profile but the body is a bit thicker than some other models on this list. It will clean under your bed and some furniture, though probably not very far. You also won’t find any attachments included, which prevent it from cleaning above head.
Aside from that, though, it is a great alternative to a standard upright, especially in smaller spaces like apartments or condos.
| Pros | Cons |
| Affordable for most budgets | No HEPA filtration |
| Great for all floor types | Doesn’t clean over head |
| Power motor cleaning head shuts off when not needed | |
| Cyclonic suction for less clogging |
7. MOOSOO 2-in-1
For cleaning your entire home the MOOSOO 2-in-1 makes it simple. The biggest draw here is the extending wand. You can go from 18 to 32 inches without adding weight. In handheld mode, this means you are free to clean overhead without fatigue.
In upright mode, the power motor brush roll will clean thin carpeting and some area rugs (though maneuverability may be limited). This model is designed for hard flooring and above ground cleaning.
Furniture, mattresses and overhead cleaning are a breeze. It even cleans fans, curtains, blinds and baseboards without you having to bend, stretch or stoop. It does produce a lot of suction and comes with two types of filters.
The HEPA filter collects fine particles including in-home allergens like dust mites and pollen. The larger, cylinder filter collects larger particles. Both filters are washable and have a decent life span before replacement is needed.
If you have a lot of carpet, you may not enjoy using this model. It doesn’t like to turn or push on carpet very well and this can lead to fatigue, soreness and frustration. However, for homes with primarily hard flooring the MOOSOO is a dream come true.
| Pros | Cons |
| Wand extends up to 30 inches | Not suitable for most carpeting |
| Washable HEPA filtratrion | Doesn’t move well on carpeting |
| Ideal for overhead and hard surface cleaning |
8. Shark Rocket DuoClean Corded Stick Vacuum
The Shark Rocket DuoClean is the next model up from the previous listed Shark Rocket. There are a few major differences here and those exceptional features make this the most expensive vacuum on this list.
The motorized power head has a unique brush roller that uses a soft, almost sponge-like roller to agitate carpet and sweep hard floors. When used correctly it won’t scratch any surface and can power through carpeting as well as put a shine on your vinyl.
The swivel mount also allows you to get far under furniture, around legs and in between chairs. You will find that the LED lights help find those stubborn dust bunnies in these areas.
The roller also has an open front construction so larger debris is actually collected instead of pushed around. Smaller particles are collected with the high suction power and the entire floor is left clean and refreshed.
There are more tools included with the vacuum as well. You get the crevice tool as well as the multi-function pet tool. However there is also the storage clip, wall mount hook, motor head, and extension wand.
The Rocket DuoClean does not convert to a hand held, so overhead cleaning isn’t viable. However, for hard surfaces, carpeted floors, area rugs and any other flooring type, there isn’t anything more powerful or easy to use.
| Pros | Cons |
| Power motor cleaning head is designed for all surfaces | No overhead cleaning |
| Multiple tools included | |
| Powerful suction | |
| Low maintenance |
How to Clean With a Corded Stick Vacuum
Cleaning with a vacuum is one of those things we just end up knowing. Perhaps it is osmosis or just childhood chore trauma. Whatever the case, there is actually a right way and a wrong way to clean your entire home with a stick vacuum.
- Always clean high to low.
- Use the proper tool for the job.
- Assuming your vacuum has a wand or hose extension, start with the ceiling. Get the cobwebs out of the corners and clean the blades on the ceiling fans.
- Using the duster or brush tool you can clean off bookshelves, table tops, entertainment centers, etc.
- Clean the upholstery, in between the cushions and the folds in your chairs.
- Run along the baseboards sweeping up the debris and dust that collects there.
- Clean any throw or area rugs and then move them out of the way if possible.
- Vacuum the carpeting using the brush roller (if equipped).
- Finish by sweeping the hard floor surfaces without the brush roller (if able to remove or turn it off).
Stick Vacuum Proper Care and Maintenance
To make sure your new stick vacuum performs well and has a long life, you will need to perform routine cleaning and maintenance. For most machines this is a simple process.
Make sure you check with your owner’s manual for specific intervals or cleaning details not listed below. Certain maintenance items may need to be followed to keep your warranty valid. The following is only a guide of the basic elements.
- Empty the collection bin regularly. Ensure you clean it out (or wash it if able).
- Clean or replace the filters as instructed. Clean filters mean more airflow and better suction.
- Remove the tools and clean them separately.
- Check the wheels for damage or tangles around the axles.
- Clean out the brush roller from hair and string or carpet fibers that may become wrapped.
- Wipe off the entire machine clearing any dust or dirt build up, especially around the vents and exhaust.
- Check the cord for damage, kinks or frays. Repair or send in for a warranty claim if needed.
FAQ for Corded Stick Vacuums
Here I answer the more common questions about corded stick vacuums. If you have other questions or concerns, please use the comment section below the article.
Q. Are corded vacuums better than battery operated ones?
- In most cases a corded vacuum does produce more suction power than a battery powered model. Some brands like Dyson have high powered battery vacuums. However, batteries lose power and need to be recharged. With a corded model you can clean until the job is done.
Q. How long does a corded stick vacuum last?
- On average a corded stick vacuum should last you about 7 years. With proper maintenance and cleaning, you can easily reach a decade or more before a replacement becomes necessary.
Q. Will a stick vacuum replace a regular upright vacuum?
- For most homes a corded stick vacuum will be enough. It depends a lot on the size of your home and the type of flooring you have. If you have a lot of high-pile carpeting or specialty flooring, a stick vacuum may not be the best option. However, bare floors, hardwood and low-pile carpeted homes will see huge benefits with a stick vacuum versus a standard upright model.
Q. Can I use a corded stick vacuum to clean my car?
- If the vacuum is a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 model it is most certainly capable of cleaning your car. Just like cleaning the rest of your house, you can use the included tools in hand-held mode tro clean the floors, seats and between the consoles with ease.
Q. Are stick vacuums worth it?
- Stick vacuums can be an investment. However, with the right planning on choosing the best corded stick vacuum you can shave time off of your chore list and have a clean home more often with just a stick vacuum than a closet full of specialty cleaners.
Final Words on Corded Stick Vacuums
Choosing a great corded stick vacuum for you and your specific needs can be challenging. Knowing what to look for and how it will perform is crucial to finding the perfect model.
This article focused on corded stick vacuums and gave you factors worth considering before you purchase. If you still have doubts, I invite you to take another look at the Eureka Blaze 3-in-1. It is versatile, affordable and will fit the needs of most homes.
