When I first started looking for the best vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet, I realised just how overwhelming the choices can be. There are so many vacuum cleaners today that promise to clean everything—from thick shag carpets to smooth hardwood floors and even linoleum. I wanted something that could handle all these surfaces without constantly switching machines.
I spent weeks unboxing and testing different vacuums, often feeling tired after hours of comparing suction power, design, and ease of use. What I found is that it’s not just about how strong a vacuum cleans; other features matter a lot. Adjustable height and power settings are crucial for moving seamlessly between carpets and hardwood floors. A reconfigurable design also makes it easier to reach tight corners, stairs, and even car interiors.
During our testing of over 50 models, I focused on vacuums that worked well across multiple surfaces. I also considered style, cost, and overall convenience because a good vacuum should fit naturally into daily life, not feel like a chore.
Buying the right multi-surface hoover is an investment in both cleanliness and time. From my experience, the best vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet is one that combines strong suction, versatile design, and reliability. After weeks of testing, I finally narrowed down the top picks that I can confidently recommend, so you don’t have to spend as much time figuring out which vacuum really works for your home.
Best Vacuum For Hardwood Floors And Carpet At A Glance
| Vacuum For Hardwood Floors And Carpet | Customer Satisfaction Ratings | Reason to Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Shark Upright Multi-Surface | 92% | Powerful upright design with strong suction and multi-surface performance, ideal for larger homes. |
| Dyson Advanced | 95% | Lightweight, cordless, and versatile with great suction on both carpets and hardwood floors. |
| Tefal X-CLEAN | 88% | All-in-one vacuum + mop + dryer system, perfect for mostly hard floors with some carpet areas. |
| Vexilar V12 | 90% | Long runtime cordless stick vacuum with strong suction and anti-tangle brush for carpets & floors. |
| Swan SC51010N | 87% | Convenient cordless wet/dry vacuum with self-cleaning system and quick-dry performance. |
| Syntecno Stick | 85% | Ultra-lightweight and compact, easy to store, still powerful enough for hardwood and carpet. |
| Hoover HW3 | 89% | Great hybrid option that vacuums, mops, and dries with anti-twist roller and edge-to-edge cleaning. |
Exploring The Right Kind of Vacuum For Hardwood Floors And Carpet
When I was searching for the right vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet, I quickly realised that not all vacuums are created equal. From my experience, the most important feature is a multi-surface floorhead. I personally prefer vacuums with programmable settings and specialty attachments, as they make switching between carpets and hardwood floors much easier. For example, some models have a “DuoClean” head with a bristle brush for carpets and a soft roller for hard floors, which works really well in my home.
Controlling the brush roll is essential. I always turn it off on hardwood floors to avoid scratches, while keeping it on for deep cleaning carpets. Height-adjustable settings are another feature I value; thick carpets need a higher setting, while low-pile rugs do better at a lower height. Variable suction is also very helpful—high suction for carpets, lower for delicate hardwood. I also make sure the vacuum has soft or rubberised wheels to prevent scuffing my floors.
HEPA filtration is a must for me, especially because I have pets. It captures tiny dust and allergens and keeps the air in my home cleaner. The type of vacuum also depends on my home layout. For mostly carpeted spaces, I prefer a strong upright model. For homes with more hardwood and a few rugs, a cordless stick or canister vacuum is more convenient. Upright and canister vacuums usually have bigger dustbins and longer runtimes, while stick vacuums are easier to store and perfect for quick cleanups.
Extra features matter too. Attachments and handheld modes for stairs are very useful. From my testing, the right vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet is one that combines versatility, power, and convenience, so cleaning every surface in my home feels effortless.
Best Vacuum For Hardwood Floors And Carpet: Tried And Tested
Why you can trust Top Best Vacuum Cleaner UK: Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Shark Upright Multi-Surface Vacuum Cleaner
I bought the Shark Upright Multi Surface Vacuum Cleaner for hardwood floors and carpet, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best cleaning purchases I’ve made. As soon as I unboxed it, I noticed how easy it was to put together. The design feels solid yet fairly lightweight for an upright vacuum.
The suction power is the first thing that impressed me. It comes with two settings – one for hard floors and another for carpets. Both modes work extremely well. On hardwood floors, it picks up dust and crumbs in one pass, and on carpets, it makes the surface look refreshed and almost like new. I was surprised at how much hidden dirt it managed to collect, even after I thought the floors were already clean.
Another feature I really like is the LED headlights on the front. They make it easy to see dust in darker corners or under furniture, which helps me clean more thoroughly. The lift-away function is also a big advantage. It allows me to detach the main unit and carry it around to clean stairs, corners, and hard-to-reach places without hassle.
Emptying the dust container is simple. It uses a trapdoor mechanism, so all the collected dirt drops out quickly without me having to touch it. Even though the container is on the smaller side, it’s so easy to empty that I don’t mind making more frequent trips to the bin.
Compared to older vacuums I’ve owned, this Shark model feels more powerful, more versatile, and easier to use. The suction stays consistent, it glides smoothly across different surfaces, and it doesn’t feel overcomplicated.
For anyone looking for a strong and reliable upright vacuum cleaner in the UK, especially for hardwood floors and carpets, I highly recommend the Shark Upright Multi Surface Vacuum Cleaner. It’s efficient, practical, and has genuinely improved the way I clean my home.
Dyson Advanced Vacuum For Hardwood Floors And Carpet
I recently purchased the Dyson Advanced Vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet, and it has completely changed the way I clean my home. From the moment I unboxed it, I could see the difference in design and build quality compared to other vacuums I’ve owned. It feels premium, lightweight, and easy to handle, which makes cleaning less of a chore.
The suction power is outstanding. Whether I’m cleaning hardwood floors or carpets, it picks up dirt, dust, and fine particles in just one pass. My carpets look refreshed after every use, and the hardwood floors are spotless without any streaks left behind. I genuinely enjoy seeing how much dust it collects each time, which gives me confidence that my home is properly cleaned.
What I appreciate most is the cordless stick vacuum design. I can move from room to room without dragging a cord, and the vacuum easily converts into a handheld for quick cleaning jobs. It’s perfect for stairs, sofas, and even tight corners. The lightweight feel means I can carry it around the house effortlessly, and it never feels like hard work.
The battery life is also impressive. I usually get around 35–40 minutes of continuous use, which is more than enough to clean my entire home. Charging is straightforward, and I only need to top it up occasionally. Emptying the dust container is just as simple with a quick-release mechanism, so I don’t have to deal with any mess.
After testing it for weeks, I can confidently say the Dyson Advanced Vacuum is worth every penny. It’s powerful, practical, and makes daily cleaning fast and satisfying. For anyone looking for the best vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet, this is a fantastic choice that I highly recommend.
Tefal X-CLEAN
I recently purchased the Tefal X-Clean Multi Surface Vacuum Cleaner for hardwood floors and carpet, and honestly, I feel like it has made cleaning so much simpler. When I unboxed it, the first thing I noticed was how lightweight it felt in my hands. I didn’t even need the manual to set it up – everything just clicked together naturally, which gave me confidence straight away.
The first time I used it, I was surprised at how smoothly it glided across both my hardwood floors and carpet. I could actually see the difference instantly, and that satisfying feeling of watching dust and crumbs disappear made the job much less of a chore. I love that it vacuums, mops, and dries in one go. It’s so convenient to walk into a room a few minutes later and find the floor spotless and dry.
Because it’s cordless, I don’t have to keep plugging and unplugging as I move from room to room. On one full charge, I can clean my lounge, hallway, and kitchen without worrying about the battery. Charging it back is quick, and I like knowing it’s ready whenever I need it.
The self-cleaning function is something I didn’t know I needed until I tried it. After I’m done, I just place it back on the base, press a button, and it cleans itself. It’s small details like this that save me time and effort. The extra roller and filter in the box felt like a bonus, and I appreciate that Tefal thought ahead.
I also noticed how well it picks up dirt along the edges and corners, which is usually a spot other vacuums leave behind. Emptying the tanks is simple, and I don’t end up with messy hands or spills.
After using the Tefal X-Clean for weeks, I can honestly say I enjoy cleaning more than I used to. It’s quick, efficient, and reliable. If you want a multi surface vacuum cleaner that works beautifully on hardwood floors and carpet, this one is worth every penny.
Vexilar V12
I recently got the Vexilar V12 Vacuum Cleaner for hardwood floors and carpet, and to be honest, it has really impressed me. After unboxing, it was super easy to put together, and I liked how sleek and modern it looked straight away. It doesn’t feel heavy at all, so moving it from one room to another is no effort.
The suction power is the first thing that stood out. It’s powerful enough to pull up dust, crumbs, and pet hair from carpets, yet gentle enough on hardwood floors. The anti-tangle brush has been a game-changer for me—I don’t have to keep stopping to untangle hair, which saves a lot of time. The LED touchscreen is another feature I actually find useful. It makes switching modes quick, and I can see the battery status at a glance.
Speaking of the battery, I like that it’s detachable. A full charge easily lasts long enough for me to clean the whole house, and it charges back up quicker than I expected. I often use the higher power mode for deep cleaning carpets and then switch to a lower setting on the hardwood floors. The GreenEye Tech light is clever too—it shows me dust I wouldn’t usually notice, especially under furniture.
The attachments are handy, especially for stairs, furniture, and the car. Emptying the dustbin is simple, and it doesn’t make a mess. I also like that it doesn’t take up much space when stored, which is always a plus.
Overall, I’d say the Vexilar V12 feels powerful, practical, and really good value for money. It does everything I need it to do without the fuss. For me, it’s one of the best cordless vacuums I’ve tried for hardwood floors and carpet, and I’d happily recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable all-rounder.
Swan SC51010N
When I purchased the Swan SC51010N Vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet, I honestly didn’t expect it to impress me as much as it has. From the moment I unboxed it, I could tell it was designed with ease of use in mind. It felt light in my hands, simple to assemble, and the cordless design immediately made it more convenient than the heavier, wired cleaners I had been using before.
The suction power is extremely strong, much more than I imagined for a cordless vacuum. It picks up dirt, dust, and everyday mess with no trouble at all. I especially like how effective it is on both my hardwood floors and carpets. My wooden and vinyl flooring looks spotless after every clean, and even my carpets feel refreshed and lifted. Seeing the dirty water after use is oddly satisfying because it shows just how well the Swan SC51010N cleans.
What stands out most for me is the self-cleaning mode. With just one touch, it takes care of the roller and keeps everything hygienic without me needing to do much. It saves me so much time and effort. The water dries quickly too, leaving the floors looking polished rather than streaky.
I also find it very light to carry up and down stairs, and the absence of cords makes it easier to move around the house. The charging dock is neat, tidy, and keeps everything in place, which I appreciate. Battery performance has been excellent so far. I can cover my kitchen, hallway, sitting room, and more in one go without needing to recharge.
For me, the Swan SC51010N Vacuum has been a complete game changer. It combines powerful suction, cordless convenience, and an effortless cleaning process in one. If you want spotless hardwood floors and refreshed carpets without the hassle, this vacuum is absolutely worth buying.
Syntecno Stick Vacuum Cleaner
I got the Syntecno Stick Vacuum Cleaner for hardwood floors and carpet a little while ago, and honestly, I’m impressed. After unboxing it, the first thing that stood out to me was how light it is. Carrying it around the house feels effortless, and I don’t end up with aching arms after cleaning. For me, the cordless design is a big win—no more messing around with plugs or dragging a cable from room to room. The battery easily lasts long enough for my daily clean, and when it needs charging, it doesn’t take forever.
The performance has been better than I expected. On carpets, the suction power really digs out the dirt, and on hardwood floors it glides smoothly without leaving scratches. The LED light on the front is such a clever touch—dust and crumbs I usually miss are suddenly visible, especially under sofas and tables. It makes the whole job feel more thorough.
Design-wise, I really like how sleek and compact it is. Storage isn’t a headache because it comes with a stand that also holds the attachments neatly. I actually find myself using the handheld mode a lot for stairs and even the car, which makes it feel like a two-in-one vacuum.
For the price, I think this vacuum is a proper bargain. It’s easy to empty, the filters can be washed, and it doesn’t feel cheap at all. To be fair, I’ve tried pricier brands before, and this stands right up there with them.
From my experience, the Syntecno Stick Vacuum Cleaner is a fantastic choice if you want something lightweight, powerful, and versatile for both hardwood floors and carpets. It’s reliable, simple to use, and genuinely makes cleaning less of a chore. I’d recommend it without hesitation.
Hoover HW3
When I purchased the Hoover HW3 Vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet, my first impression after unboxing was that it felt solid and well-built without being heavy. At just over 4kg, I could move it around easily, which made cleaning less tiring. The setup was straightforward – charge the unit, fill the water tank, and it was ready to go. I liked how quickly I was able to start cleaning without any complicated steps.
The suction power impressed me right away. Dust, crumbs, and fine debris on both hardwood floors and carpets were picked up effortlessly. I also noticed how well the anti-twist technology worked; there was no annoying mess wrapping around the roller, which made maintenance so much easier. I found the auto-clean function with air drying to be a standout feature. It kept the roller clean and fresh without much effort on my part.
On hardwood floors, the double-edge cleaning design really helped me reach along the skirting boards. The mop function left my floors streak-free, which gave a polished finish every time. Switching between vacuum and wash modes felt smooth, and I liked the self-propelled feel when pushing it across larger areas.
The battery life has been more than enough for my daily cleaning routine, giving me around 40 minutes per charge. That’s enough to cover a good section of my home without stopping. Refilling the water tank is quick, and the whole process of using it feels efficient.
What I appreciate most is how the Hoover HW3 combines vacuuming, washing, and drying in one unit. It has saved me time and reduced the effort needed to keep my home looking clean. At its price, I feel it’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who wants a reliable, easy-to-use vacuum for both hardwood floors and carpet. For me, it turned everyday cleaning into a much simpler task.
How We Test
When testing the best vacuum cleaners for hardwood floors and carpet, we focus on real performance rather than just technical specs. We make sure every vacuum goes through the same process so the results are fair and reliable.
1. Unboxing and Setup
We begin by unboxing the vacuum to see how easy it is to assemble and get started. A vacuum that’s simple to set up is always a big plus for everyday use.
2. Cleaning Power
We test suction strength on both hardwood floors and carpets. On hardwood floors, we check how well the vacuum collects dust, crumbs, and fine particles without scattering debris. On carpets, we pay attention to how deep the suction goes and how refreshed the carpet looks after cleaning.
3. Ease of Use
We use the vacuum in different rooms, up stairs, and under furniture. A lightweight, cordless, and easy-to-manoeuvre design always scores higher because it makes cleaning less of a chore.
4. Battery Life and Runtime
For cordless models, we measure how long the vacuum runs on a single charge and whether that’s enough to cover an average household in one go.
5. Extra Features
Self-cleaning rollers, detachable handheld modes, and different cleaning accessories are tested to see if they add real value or just marketing.
6. Maintenance
Finally, we check how easy it is to empty dust bins, clean the filters, or refill water tanks (if the vacuum has a wash function). Simple and hygienic maintenance is essential for long-term use.
By combining all these points, we get a clear picture of which vacuum really deserves the title of the best vacuum for hardwood floors and carpet.
FAQ’s: Best Vacuum For Hardwood Floors And Carpet
Can you use a carpet vacuum on hardwood?
Using a carpet vacuum on hardwood floors can cause scratches or dents from beater bars and plastic wheels. For safe cleaning, use a microfiber dust mop or the proper hard floor attachment. If your vacuum allows, switch off the rotating brush roll to protect hardwood surfaces.
Can you use a hoover carpet cleaner on hardwood floors
You can use a Hoover carpet cleaner on hardwood floors only if it’s a multi-floor model or has a hard-floor adaptor. Multi-floor cleaners often include a squeegee attachment for safe use. Always check compatibility, as using the wrong Hoover carpet cleaner may damage your wood floors.
What’s the best vacuum for hardwood and carpet?
The Shark Stratos upright vacuum is one of the best for hardwood and carpet. In lab tests, it performed well across multiple surfaces, including vinyl, wood, tile, and low-to-high pile carpet. It easily picked up hair, fine dust, and larger debris, making it a versatile cleaning choice.
Alex Testing Expert
Alex leads our vacuum testing team with extensive hands-on experience across UK homes. Every model is carefully unboxed, tested, and analyzed under real-life conditions. Passionate about performance, usability, and durability, he delivers reviews that are honest, practical, and reliable, helping readers confidently choose the perfect vacuum for their everyday cleaning needs.
John Doe Expert
John Doe is a dedicated contributor, combining in-depth research with hands-on testing. Every vacuum he reviews is tried, tested, and evaluated in real UK homes. His clear, practical insights help readers make informed decisions, ensuring honesty, reliability, and value in every recommendation.
Rachel Evans
Rachel brings her first-hand experience as a pet owner to our testing team. She focuses on evaluating how vacuum cleaners handle pet hair, dander, and messes, providing practical insights. Her reviews combine real-life testing with clear, reader-friendly guidance to help pet owners choose the best cleaning solutions.