Kirby Sentria Upright Vacuum

Users report very strong suction that picks up dirt, debris, and pet hair from both carpets and hard floors.

The Sentria cleans carpets, hardwood, tile, and upholstery thanks to adjustable settings and included attachments.

The swivel head makes it relatively easy to maneuver around furniture and in tight spaces, though the 22-pound weight means it requires more effort than lightweight models.

For pet hair, look for strong suction (roughly 20,000 Pa or more on a robot vacuum, 150 AW or more on a cordless), a tangle-resistant brush roll, a dedicated pet tool, and HEPA filtration, which by definition captures 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. Dyson, Shark and Bissell all make well-reviewed pet models. Use the Pet Hair Specialist filter on our comparison table to see which ones are in stock and what they cost right now.

Most manufacturers suggest replacing filters every 3 to 6 months, depending on how often you vacuum and whether you have pets. HEPA filters usually last 12 to 18 months if you clean them regularly. Washable foam filters on bagless models should be rinsed every 1 to 2 weeks and dried fully before going back in. Replacements typically run $15 to $50. A clogged filter chokes airflow, so suction drops noticeably well before the filter looks dirty.