A commercial vacuum is your all-in-one solution if you are looking for a beast that operates for hours and flawlessly cleans your commercial space. The best commercial vacuums will provide that but with the same convenience as a household vacuum cleaner. For heavy cleaning of large surface areas such as your store, garage, hotel, restaurant, or office space, your regular household vacuum will not suffice.
These can operate for not more than 30 minutes and cannot provide enough dust bin capacity. If you employ these household vacuum cleaners for such a heavy-duty cleaning job, you will only reduce the longevity and efficiency of the vacuum and end up cleaning the dust cap every other hour.
For that purpose, you need a commercial vacuum with a dependable runtime, long and high-quality power cord, and high-end suction power. Here’s your guide to buying the perfect commercial vacuum and cleaning your huge commercial space a little more efficiently.
10 Best Commercial Vacuums
- Best Overall: Shark VM252
“Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, Ideal Weight, High-Quality Features, and Construction” - Best Lightweight Handheld Vacuum: Shark ICZ362H
“Minimum Maintenance Costs, Long Operation Time, Two Efficient Cleaning Modes” - Best Vacuum for Commercial Carpet: Sanitaire SC679K
“500 Hours of Cleaning Performance, a Long Power Cord, Durable Polycarbonate Hood” - Best Maneuverable Commercial Vacuum: Oreck Commercial U2000R-1
“Lightweight and Maneuverable, Compact Brush Roll System, Saniseal Technology” - Best Handheld Commercial Vacuum: BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L
“Energy-Efficient, Cyclonic Action for the Longevity, Large Capacity Transparent Dirt Cup” - Best Commercial Wet/Dry Vacuum: Vacmaster Professional VFB511B0201
“Ideal Weight and Compact Body, High-Efficiency Motor, 5-Gallon Polypropylene Tank” - Best Compact Commercial Vacuum: Stanley SL18115P
“Integrated Strong Blower, Crevice Nozzle and Extension Wand, Efficient and Compact” - Best Convenient Commercial Vacuum: Hoover Commercial CH53010
“Commercial-Grade HEPA Filters, Easy Belt and Brush Replacement, Five Height Adjustment” - Best Detachable Commercial Vacuum: Shark ZU782
“Exceptional Suction Power, Pod lift-Away Technology, Shark Duo Clean Technology” - Best Durable Commercial Vacuum: Hoover MAXLife Pro UH74220PC
“Swivel Steering Mechanism, Sturdy Construction, Perfect for Pet Hair Cleaning”
Best Commercial Vacuums
We experimented with almost a hundred commercial vacuums on various floor surfaces. After extensive research through customer reviews and personal experience, the following ten commercial vacuums should contain the best-chosen one for your particular preference.
We have brought you our verdicts for different floor types among the handheld, upright, and then bagless or bagged vacuum cleaners. With the prime selection below, all you have to do is sort out your budget and specific requirement and go for the best-suiting vacuum cleaner for your shop, office, or hotel.
1) Shark VM252
Shark VM252
Shark VM252 is a two-in-one vacuum mop that provides multi-surface cleaning without the hassle of a cord. It is battery-powered but provides better suction and versatile performance than its competitors.
Shark VM252 is a ”Complete Clean’Clean’ package since it can vacuum and also mop the place using its water spray feature. The package comes complete with a lot of accessories. And given the efficiency and versatility of the VACMOP, we have to call it the best overall commercial vacuum on this list.
Features and Benefits
Shark VM252 is a cordless, rechargeable VACMOP that uses a durable Lithium-ion battery to provide a quick and efficient cleanup of the space. It effortlessly switches between different types of floors. The indicator keeps you well-informed of the battery status.
The used, dirty pad removes at the touch of a single button. This vacuum is meant to provide the convenience of a handheld vacuum, along with the mopping feature and strong suction. With only 3.5 pounds, it is portable and maneuverable enough to support its cause.
Shark VM252 provides a runtime of 13 minutes. So, we know that it can provide quick solutions to messy situations but not all the time. The VACMOP comes with a bottle of cleaning solution and four disposable pads. But after exhausting these, you will be buying for yourself.
Pros
- Suction and mopping in one package
- Lightweight; easy to move
- Bright LED for vacuuming in the dark
- One-button pad disposal
- Sturdy and rugged
Cons
- The runtime could have been better
- Maintenance costs of the cleaner and pads
2) Shark ICZ362H
Shark ICZ362H
Shark ICZ362H is a lightweight, handheld vacuum with a reliable runtime and efficient filtration system. The dual brush roll system removes 99 % of pet hair and debris.
Shark ICZ362H came as an upgrade to the last Shark upright vacuum and featured a 25 percent lighter weight. It is a handheld vacuum with a Shark quality body and a comfortable grip finish.
Features and Benefits
The Shark ICZ362H features a safe, strong battery that provides a runtime of almost an hour and recharges in 3 hours. However, in the ”Boost” mode, it cannot operate for more than 10 minutes with a single charge.
This handheld vacuum uses a pre-motor filter and a post-motor HEPA filtration assembly. Both of them do not need replacing and are easily washable. The dirt compartment has a capacity of 0.7 Liters which is enough to go for days without emptying.
The dual brush roll system called the Duo Clean Power Fins sucks an exceptional amount of dirt, hair, and debris both from the carpeted and hard floors, making it the best commercial vacuums for pet hair. You can easily switch to a hand vacuum with an extension wand and LED headlights as well.
Pros
- A reliable runtime of an hour
- Anti-allergen HEPA filtration system
- Minimum filter replacement costs
- Duo Clean Power Fins provide spotless cleaning
- Multi-mode cleaning capabilities
Cons
- There is no on/off switch for the brush rolls
- The boost mode cannot operate for more than 10 minutes
3) Sanitaire SC679K
Sanitaire SC679K
Sanitaire SC679K is perfect for quick and easy cleanups for commercial carpets. The long power cord and the strong motor make it both efficient and convenient to use.
Sanitaire SC679K is the best vacuum for commercial carpets not just because of the right features and performance but also its perfect value for money. There is hardly anything wrong with this vacuum when we spread out its features and quality.
Features and Benefits
The selling point for this commercial vacuum by Sanitaire has to be a whopping 500 hours of cleaning time. This claim clearly speaks for the heavy-duty motor and build of the vacuum for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
The hood uses durable polycarbonate, so it is completely safe and easy to use and keeps this vacuum in the storage places of offices and hospitals. The power cord is commercial-level, suitable for the heavy-duty motor, and 30 feet long. You won’t be changing plugs after small cleaning sessions.
The Sanitaire SC679K dirtbag capacity completely aligns with its applications: it can store up to 18 quarts of vacuumed dirt, debris, and hair, which equals almost 17 liters. It is maneuverable enough to provide a range of 4680 sq. ft. without changing plugs.
Though the vacuum is meant for commercial use, it is quite convenient to use. The bag release system makes cleaning super easy. In the same way, the belt and brush roll replacement can be readily done without any tool or extra effort.
Pros
- Lightweight; portable, and easy to move
- More than 500 hours of cleaning performance
- Shake out bag goes for weeks without emptying
- Long power cord with a reliable 30-foot reach
- The polycarbonate hood provides durability
Cons
- Does not come with cleaning tools
- Does not have a working light
4) Oreck Commercial U2000R-1
Oreck Commercial U2000R-1
Oreck Commercial U2000R-1 has the best suction power and maneuverability for commercial carpet and floor cleaning. The price and performance also suffice perfectly for tough household cleaning jobs.
Oreck Commercial U2000R-1 makes a perfect lightweight, compact vacuum cleaner for commercial carpet cleaning. And that is why experts like to call it the best backpack vacuum for commercial use.
Features and Benefits
The most amazing feature of this commercial-level cleaner is its awesome weight. This commercial-grade vacuum cleaner provides ultimate convenience and portability for cleaning large spaces as it weighs only around eight pounds.
The power cord is 40-feet long and thick enough to provide safe and reliable reach around the space. The vacuum head is compact and small but a hundred times more efficient than an average vacuum cleaner. In addition, the Saniseal technology locks in the dirt permanently, and the compact brush roll prevents the spreading of the dust.
The comfortable grip, compact, and lightweight design offer ultimate ease of operation. The bumpers on the front and sides protect your walls and furniture and the vacuum when you are cleaning in a hurry.
Oreck Commercial U2000R-1 has to be the perfect choice for all types of carpets and hard floors for its large bag capacity and low maintenance costs. Besides, due to the microsleep feature, you do not need any change of settings when switching between different floor types.
Pros
- The microsleep feature offers automaticity for switching floors
- Small weight and long cord for better maneuverability
- Saniseal technology prevents leakage of bag contents
- Convenient handle and on/off switch
- Strong suction power for efficient cleaning
Cons
- Does not come with cleaning attachments
- Maintaining the bag and belt is expensive
5) BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L
BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L
BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L is a powerful yet affordable, portable commercial vacuum cleaner that won't let you down. The multi-surface compatibility and ergonomic design make it hard to miss.9
If you are looking for the best commercial handheld vacuum cleaner with a dependable suction that performs well and does not cost much, BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L will be a great purchase. The most impressive feature is its rotating slim nozzle that can fit into any space.
Features and Benefits
BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L derives its power from an 18 V Lithium-ion battery that lasts longer than an average handheld vacuum battery. It uses smart charge technology that allows the vacuum to fully charge in two to four hours and spends almost 50 percent less energy than other vacuum models.
The bagless dirt cup is easy to empty and clean. Besides, the cyclonic action feature keeps the filters clean for a long time and also improves the suction power of the vacuum when the dirt cup is full.
The handheld vacuum cleaner has been designed as a lightweight, portable vacuum that easily reaches the nooks and corners. It also brings the attachment tools such as the crevice tool and the brush tool to facilitate thorough cleaning.
Read Full Review: BLACK+DECKER CHV1410L Review
Pros
- The nozzle can rotate 180 degrees and fit anywhere
- Reliable performance for your home, office, or vehicle
- Cyclonic action keeps the filter in optimum condition
- The dirt cup is transparent
- Smart charge technology enables a short charging time
Cons
- Small dirt cup capacity
- A bit noisy
6) Vacmaster Professional VFB511B0201
Vacmaster Professional VFB511B0201
Vacmaster Professional VFB511B0201 is a powerful vacuum cleaner option; heavier than handheld ones but compact and equally portable. The blower switch feature is ideal for vacuuming inside vehicles.
With a 5.5 Peak HP high-efficiency motor, you can expect a powerful performance at your workplace or garage. Vacmaster is trusted for the build and feature quality of their vacuum cleaners, and the Vacmaster Professional VFB511B0201 is no different. Experts like to call it the best commercial wet dry vacuum.
Features and Benefits
Vacmaster Professional VFB511B0201 features a weight of 13.5 pounds when fully assembled, and its size is not the smallest either. For the powerful motor and performance it offers, both are justified. Another pro here is its compact design.
The vacuum features storage compartments for the power cord and the accompanying accessories to ensure minimum hassle. Without changing the plug, the vacuum can provide a range of up to 25 feet by combining the 18 ft. power cord and 7 ft. long hose.
The polypropylene tank has a capacity of 5 gallons which is just sufficient for commercial-grade cleaning jobs. Besides, it is corrosion and impact-resistant, ensuring durability and longevity. The superior suction power and the wet foam filter are able to vacuum both wet and dry surfaces.
The integrated hose makes it quite portable and handy for use in vehicles. The on/off switch is pretty straightforward. The vacuum converts to a blower quite easily, which is quite convenient for those who use their Vacmaster for garage tasks.
Pros
- Durable polypropylene tank
- Converts to a blower super easy
- Compact design; least hassle
- Vacuums both dry and wet surfaces
- Tank capacity of 5 liters
Cons
- Wet floor vacuuming requires more maintenance
- We expected a better suction power compared to its price
7) Stanley SL18115P
Stanley SL18115P
Stanley SL18115P is a wet/dry vacuum with a 5-gallon self-draining tank and powerful motor. Count on the extension wands, cleaning brushes, and the crevice tool for cleaning nooks and crannies.
Stanley SL18115P is one of the high-quality shop vacuums that provide easy maneuverability, the versatility of cleaning surfaces, and strong suction power.
Features and Benefits
Stanley SL18115P is a wet/dry vacuum manufactured for heavy-duty dry and wet pickups in your home, office, or vehicle. It is shaped like a tank. At the same time, it is quite easy to carry around. It has swivel casters on the bottom in addition to a strong handle for easy carrying.
The extension wands and the crevice nozzle that accompanies the wet/dry vacuum considerably help clean inaccessible or tight spaces. The canister is made of plastic and metal, with a durable polypropylene finish, so you can rest assured that the investment will be safe for many years.
You can easily switch to the blower, making it handy for dusty furniture and vehicles. The tank has a capacity of five gallons, and it has a built-in drain. So, you are spared the hassle of tank drainage as well.
Pros
- Four horsepower; strong suction power
- Wheels provide maneuverability
- The 5-gallon tank drains itself
- Quickly switch to a strong blower
- Industry-level overall performance
Cons
- Short power cord; use extension
- The blower is not powerful enough
8) Hoover Commercial CH53010
Hoover Commercial CH53010
Hoover Commercial CH53010 is a corded, bagless commercial vacuum cleaner with a high-quality canister and attachments. It features a furniture guard at the front for carefree cleaning around the space.
If you are looking for an all-in-one package, Hoover Commercial CH53010 will be a great option. It provides the convenience of operation, maneuverability, and strong suction power all under one roof.
Features and Benefits
The vacuum uses professional-grade HEPA filters for an allergen-free work or vehicle environment. If you are ready for the investment, Hoover Commercial CH53010 comes with a 35 feet long power cord so that once you start vacuuming, you go all around the place without having to switch plugs.
This commercial vacuum weighs 15 pounds, which may seem like a bit more than the previous shop vacs we reviewed. But the five-position height adjustment, the high-quality two-stage filter system, and a long, high-visibility power cord make up for it.
The belt and brush have been placed so that the user can just pull the lever and change any of them without the need for any other tool. The vacuum features a convenient 8-foot-long stretch hose and is accompanied by an 11-inch crevice tool and an upholstery tool for dusting.
Pros
- Five height adjustment options
- High-quality attachment tools
- Long hose and power cord for maximum reach
- Easy belt and brush change system
- The primary washable filter with a HEPA filtration system
Cons
- Weighs 15 pounds; could have been lighter
- 12 amps motor; could have been better
9) Shark ZU782
Shark ZU782
Shark ZU782 combines exceptional suction power with features of convenience such as the detachable pod and one-button operation. Besides, it provides easy assembly and dependable maneuverability.
Shark ZU782 is a commercial vacuum cleaner for all your deep cleaning tasks. It features powerful LED headlights, a transparent dirt cup, and lift-away pod technology in addition to the convenient and efficient vacuum operation.
Features and Benefits
The best feature with the Shark ZU782 has to be the reach of cleaning it provides with a single wall socket. The 8.4 ft. long hose and the 30 ft. long power cord combine with the cleaning path of 12 inches and provide enough reach for a large office or garage.
The Shark Duo Clean technology features two types of brushes: one brush roll picks up deeply embedded debris from carpeted surfaces, while the softer one works to brush clean hard floors without spreading dust and debris.
The swivel steering mechanism allows the vacuum head to ensure optimum efficiency. The pre-motor air filters are washable, reducing maintenance costs. The rest of the filters are anti-allergen HEPA filters.
The brush rolls are not just efficient. They have been engineered to keep themselves sorted by preventing the wrapping of hair. With the crevice and upholstery tools, this vacuum proves handy for cleaning all types of surfaces and spaces.
Pros
- Anti-allergen complete seal technology
- Dual brush roll system
- Washable air filters
- A reliable cleaning reach with a single wall socket
- Two cleaning modes for carpets and hard floors
Cons
- The dirt canister could be bigger
- The washable filter is a bit difficult to access
10) Hoover MAXLife Pro UH74220PC
Hoover MAXLife Pro UH74220PC
Hoover MAXLIFE Pro UH74220PC is a bagless, upright vacuum designed for spaces with pet shedding and multiple floor types. The accessories also well-suit a pet home.
Hoover MAX LIFE Pro UH74220PC has a solid, sturdy construction that uses automatic height adjustment to perform its best on every floor type. It has been specially manufactured with a small and compact bottom, a swivel head, and LED lighting to access tight spaces around furniture.
Features and Benefits
Hoover MAXLife Pro UH74220PC features exceptional suction power for long and short pet hair embedded deep in the carpets. It uses the allergen sealed HEPA media filtration system to remove 99 percent of the fine particles and allergens from the air.
The dust cup has a capacity of 1.5 Liters and comes out effortlessly. The 13-foot suction hose and 30-foot-long power cord together provide optimum surface area coverage with each socket. Hoover MAXLife Pro UH74220PC comes with an effective dusting brush, a crevice tool, and a pet upholstery tool.
The most efficient is the pet upholstery tool which performs well on pet bedding, cushions, and tight spaces of your furniture. The brush rolls prevent hair wrap and also have a switch on/off feature so that you can turn these off on hard floors.
Pros
- Switch on/off Brush rolls
- Spacious dirt cup
- Long hose and power cord for a convenient reach
- Efficient suction power for all kinds of carpets
- Solid, sturdy construction
Cons
- The vacuum compartment for the power cord is absent
- There is no efficient hook for the long hose either
If you would like to get reviews of other popular vacuum cleaners, kindly visit our Guide page.
Best Commercial Vacuum Cleaner Buying Guide
A residential vacuum will not help you with the heavy-duty requirements of a large space such as your office, industry, garage, restaurant, or hotel. These cleaning jobs require an operating time of many hours in a day, and a residential vacuum will die out in just a few days.
Commercial vacuums, hence come with better build quality and a larger and more powerful motor and suction power combination. Even for a commercial vacuum cleaner, you need to choose wisely, keeping in view your particular requirements. Here is a comprehensive guide based on our research and experience to help you make the right decision:
Type of Vacuum cleaner
The type of commercial vacuum cleaner is important and should be decided according to the requirement. You will encounter four types of commercial vacuum cleaners:
- Upright
- Canister
- Backpack
- Wet/Dry
Upright vacuums are suitable for large spaces that are clear of obstructions. They provide a comfortable grip and handling and provide reliable suction power. But canister vacuums will do better for areas such as a restaurant setting where maneuverability is a priority.
Note that canister vacuums allow you to access tight spaces, but they are difficult to move around. For a quick and convenient clean, backpack vacuums can be an option too. Wear it on your back and maneuver the wand as you like.
The recent wet/dry vacuums are more suitable for mechanic garages and construction sites where vacuuming water is a frequent requirement. So, before buying a commercial vacuum, decide what type will suit you best.
Bagged or Bagless
Bagged vacuums use filter bags that fill the dirt and debris inside until they are full, and then you replace them. You see, they come with the maintenance cost of filter bags. But the bagged ones also offer an extra layer of protection and do not expose you to the accumulated debris.
The bagless vacuums do a thorough performance at suction and collecting the debris too. Most of them also use the sealed HEPA filtration system, designed to keep the allergens away. Some filters are washable, but others need to be replaced after a certain duration. Besides, the dustbins have to be emptied and cleaned too.
Also, if the filtration system is not completely sealed, some of it may leak and affect the total suction of the vacuum. So, here as well, each type has its pros and cons, and the decision lies with your preference.
Capacity
The capacity of the dustbin for bagless vacuums and the canister tank affects the choice of a vacuum. Since you will require a heavy cleaning pickup job from your commercial vacuum, the last thing you want is emptying the dustbin or draining the tank every day.
The capacity of the bin or the canister is one major decisive factor for a commercial vacuum cleaner. Also, a self-draining wet-dry vacuum should be preferred since it reduces the hassle.
Filtration System
When going for a bagless commercial vacuum, the filtration system plays an important role. Commercial vacuums with a two- or three-stage filtration system work better at confining the vacuumed dirt, debris, and allergens.
The HEPA filters are rated best for their anti-allergen sealing technology that keeps the space clear from any particle or debris that could escape the filter.
Cord length
Commercial vacuums are meant for larger surface areas and longer operating hours. So, the power cord should be of commercial grade that can tolerate a high voltage. Also, it should be long enough to provide a considerable reach of the area without having to switch plugs.
Weight
The lighter the vacuum, the better it is to handle, operate, and store. An average commercial vacuum weighs around 11-15 pounds. A 15-lbs. A commercial vacuum is worth overlooking the weight if it offers exceptional motor power, canister size, and suction power.
Ease of Use
The purpose of a vacuum cleaner is to save your time and energy and make your life easier. A vacuum with a tricky operation will never be worth buying. Luckily the recent ones with a one-button operation that is straightforward and accessible.
If there is a height adjustment setting in your commercial vacuum model, it should be easy to understand and straightforward. The vacuums that feature a power cord compartment offer hassle-free handling and storage.
Additional Attachments
Some commercial vacuums also come with attachments that can replace the wand and help you vacuum furniture, tight spaces, and surfaces at a height.
These tools commonly include extension wands, upholstery tools, floor brushes, and crevice tools. If you have furniture around and you need a thorough cleaning, for example, for a hotel, a commercial vacuum that comes with these tools should be more useful.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) How Long should a Commercial Vacuum Last?
A commercial vacuum operates for two to three hours each day on average. A commercial vacuum lasts for two to three years, given the long working hours.
2) Are Our Industrial Vacuums Better?
Industrial vacuum cleaners are manufactured for tough settings such as construction sites. For that purpose, they are better engineered and are of high quality. In addition to the exceptional motor power and performance, their safety standards are also way out of the league of a standard commercial vacuum.
3) Why are Commercial Vacuums so Expensive?
Commercial vacuums use a larger motor and hence a heavy-duty power cord to provide commercial-grade performance. Besides, they use a longer hose, a long and durable power cord to cover larger surface areas. These extra features make commercial vacuums more expensive than regular ones.
4) How do You Use a Commercial Vacuum?
A commercial vacuum is used outside a residential place, such as a hotel, office, or garage. Before getting to the vacuuming job, clear the area of the obstacles. Read the instruction manual for the switch on/off. And you are ready to vacuum!
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