There’s a familiar struggle many of us face: the endless battle against dust, pet hair, and microscopic allergens that seem to accumulate no matter how often we clean. For years, I found myself wrestling with vacuums that promised much but delivered little, leaving behind a fine film of dust or failing to truly deep clean carpets. The frustration mounts when you have pets, or perhaps children, and notice that even after a thorough sweep, your air purifiers are still working overtime, or you’re finding stray hairs lurking in corners. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a truly healthy, breathable living environment for our families. Investing in a cleaning tool that falls short is not only a waste of money but also a constant source of disappointment, leaving us feeling like we’re always one step behind the mess. We embarked on a journey to find a solution that could finally deliver that profound clean, and our path led us directly to the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum.
- LIFT-AWAY: Lift away the pod to clean under furniture. Or detach the nozzle to clean above the floor, on upholstery, furniture, stairs, and more.
- ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Works with a HEPA filter to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner. (Based on ASTM F1977 of particles .3 microns or larger.)
What to Consider Before Investing in a Professional Upright Vacuum Cleaner
A Upright Vacuum Cleaner is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for maintaining a pristine and healthy home environment, especially for those who contend with extensive carpeting, pet dander, or varied floor surfaces. It solves the pervasive problem of embedded dirt and allergens, providing powerful suction that handheld or stick vacuums simply can’t match for deep cleaning. The main benefits include superior particle capture, robust build quality for extended use, and the ability to revitalize carpets, making them look and feel cleaner. For many, it’s the cornerstone of a truly effective cleaning regimen.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenges of pet hair accumulation, stubborn embedded dirt in carpets, or a household with allergy sufferers who need maximum allergen filtration. It’s perfect for larger homes or those with significant carpeted areas that require consistent, powerful cleaning. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who live in very small apartments with minimal flooring or predominantly hard surfaces, or individuals who prioritize extreme lightweight cordless convenience above all else. For them, a compact stick vacuum or a robotic vacuum might offer a more tailored, albeit less powerful, solution.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Consider not only the physical footprint of the vacuum for storage but also its maneuverability during use. An upright vacuum can be substantial, so look for features like swivel steering that allow easy navigation around furniture. The ability to break down or offer a “lift-away” feature, like the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum, is invaluable for cleaning tight spaces and stairs, preventing you from having to lug a heavy machine up and down.
- Capacity/Performance: The heart of any vacuum is its suction power and filtration system. Look for high wattage and amperage, which translate to stronger suction for deep cleaning carpets and effective debris pickup on hard floors. A HEPA filter combined with an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal is paramount for trapping microscopic dust and allergens, crucial for households with allergy sufferers or pets. Dust cup capacity is also a factor; a larger cup means fewer interruptions to empty, which is a significant convenience for larger homes.
- Materials & Durability: A vacuum cleaner is a long-term investment, so the quality of its construction matters. While plastic components are common, evaluate their thickness and how securely they fit together. Cheaper plastics can lead to premature wear or breakage, especially in high-stress areas like handles or clips. A robust design, even with plastic, indicates better longevity and resilience against the bumps and knocks of regular use.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Consider features that simplify your cleaning routine. Swivel steering dramatically improves maneuverability, reducing effort. A brushroll shutoff feature is essential for seamlessly transitioning between carpet and delicate hard floors without scratching. For maintenance, assess how easy it is to empty the dust cup and clean or replace filters. The ease of clearing brushroll tangles is also a critical, often overlooked, aspect that can greatly impact your long-term satisfaction.
Choosing the right upright vacuum requires a careful balance of power, features, and user-friendliness to ensure it meets your specific household cleaning demands without becoming a chore itself. With these considerations in mind, we can better evaluate the true value of the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum.
While the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Easily clean around furniture and other obstacles with Swivel Steering
- Upgraded Cyclone System: The Eureka PowerSpeed is now upgraded with new cyclone technology to handle larger debris, smaller dirt, and even microscopic dust.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- Light as It Is Capable: At just 7.7 lb, this canister-style upright glides across hard floors and low-pile carpets without strain, ideal for multi-level homes or small-space living.
First Impressions and the Defining Features of the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum
Upon unboxing the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum, we were greeted by a sleek, white and silver machine that felt substantial yet not overly heavy at 6.21 kg. Assembly was, for the most part, a straightforward affair of clicking components into place. We appreciate a quick setup that doesn’t require a degree in engineering. Initial impressions suggested a well-designed unit, though a minor hiccup emerged when we first tried to engage the brushroll; it required attaching the front part securely, a small detail that, once discovered, made perfect sense. This minor learning curve was quickly overcome, and the vacuum immediately showcased its potential.
Compared to some older, more cumbersome uprights, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum immediately impressed us with its promise of versatility. Its core defining feature, the Lift-Away Technology, instantly set it apart. The ability to detach the canister and carry it for portable cleaning hinted at a freedom of movement that traditional uprights simply can’t offer. The swivel steering also stood out as a clear advantage for navigating around furniture, promising to make the cleaning process far less of a wrestling match. These initial observations, combined with its impressive 1200 watts of power and the integrated HEPA filter, made us eager to put the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum through its paces and see if it truly lived up to its professional moniker.
What We Like
- Exceptional Suction Power
- Highly Versatile Lift-Away Design
- Superior Anti-Allergen Complete Seal + HEPA Filtration
- Effortless Swivel Steering for Maneuverability
- Effective on Pet Hair and Mixed Surfaces
What We Didn’t Like
- Cord Length Can Be Limiting for Large Areas
- Brushroll Cleaning Requires Tools and Effort
- Some Reports of Missing Advertised Attachments
- Plastic Components Could Feel More Robust
A Deep Dive into the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum’s Performance
Unrivaled Suction and Filtration: The Deep Clean You Can See and Feel
From the moment we first powered up the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum, its suction capability immediately declared itself as exceptional. Operating at a robust 1200 watts and 10 amps, this machine delivers a level of raw cleaning power that genuinely transforms surfaces. We tested it rigorously on various carpet types, from low-pile area rugs to plush bedroom carpets, and the results were nothing short of astonishing. In one instance, after what we considered a thorough vacuuming with another reputable brand, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum still managed to extract an incredible amount of embedded dust, pet dander, and fine debris from a seemingly clean surface. This isn’t just about surface-level tidiness; it’s about a deep, restorative clean that you can both see and feel.
The magic isn’t solely in the suction; it’s also profoundly linked to its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, working seamlessly with the integrated HEPA filter. As individuals who value clean air, we understand the importance of not just collecting dirt but truly containing it. This system traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, based on particles 0.3 microns or larger. During our tests, we noticed a remarkable absence of that tell-tale “vacuum smell” – often a sign of allergens being re-released into the air. This feature alone makes the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum an indispensable tool for allergy sufferers and pet owners alike. We found our air purifiers running less frequently and noticed a significant improvement in overall air quality after regular use. Users echo this sentiment, with one remarking on how the vacuum humbled them, pulling out immense amounts of dust even after daily cleaning, directly addressing why their air purifiers were constantly full. This powerful combination of suction and filtration truly sets a new standard for household cleanliness.
The Transformative Lift-Away Technology: Versatility Beyond the Floor
Perhaps the most defining and truly innovative feature of the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is its proprietary Lift-Away Technology. This ingenious design allows the main canister, or “pod,” to detach from the upright base, instantly transforming it into a portable cleaning powerhouse. We found this capability to be a game-changer for tackling areas that are typically cumbersome or impossible with a traditional upright. Navigating stairs, for example, went from being a strenuous workout involving awkward lifting and balancing, to a remarkably effortless task. With the lightweight canister in one hand and the hose in the other, we could easily reach every corner and tread, ensuring no patch of carpet or hard surface was left untouched.
Beyond stairs, the Lift-Away feature excelled in cleaning upholstery, curtains, and even reaching those tricky, dust-bunny-laden spots high up on shelves or behind furniture. The included attachments—the dusting brush and crevice tool—become far more effective when paired with this portable power, allowing for precise and targeted cleaning. We were able to effortlessly glide the nozzle under low-slung furniture, something often difficult with the full upright configuration. This versatility means you’re not just buying a floor vacuum; you’re investing in a comprehensive whole-home cleaning system. It’s this adaptability that allows the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum to replace multiple cleaning devices, streamlining your arsenal. Many users confirm this, highlighting how much easier it makes cleaning above-floor surfaces and tight spots, truly expanding the vacuum’s utility far beyond what its “upright” form factor might suggest.
Seamless Navigation and Surface Adaptability
Maneuverability is often an understated yet crucial aspect of a vacuum cleaner’s design, and the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum truly shines in this regard thanks to its Swivel Steering. We found ourselves effortlessly gliding around chair legs, navigating tight corners, and weaving between furniture with remarkable agility. Unlike rigid uprights that require brute force to turn, the smooth swivel action reduces fatigue and makes the cleaning process feel much more intuitive and less like a chore. This precise control means we didn’t have to constantly reposition the entire machine, saving time and effort, and ensuring complete coverage of the floor space.
Adding to its adaptability is the convenient Brushroll Shutoff feature. This allows for instant transitioning between different floor types, a necessity in homes with mixed flooring. On deep carpets, the powerful brushroll works tirelessly to agitate and lift embedded dirt and pet hair. With a simple press of a button, the brushroll disengages, transforming the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum into a gentle suction-only machine perfect for delicate hard floors. We experienced no scattering of debris on hardwood and laminate, a common issue with vacuums that lack this essential feature. This seamless transition ensures optimal cleaning performance without risking damage to polished surfaces. Many users lauded this ease of use, confirming that the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is “very easy to manoeuvre” and highly effective across a range of surfaces, truly making it a versatile contender in the competitive upright vacuum market.
Pet Power and Hair Management: A True Ally for Furry Friends
For households with pets, the battle against fur and dander is a constant one. The Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is explicitly designed with “Pet Power Capability,” and we can confirm it lives up to this promise. During our extensive testing in a home with multiple animals, the vacuum demonstrated exceptional proficiency in tackling even the most stubborn pet hair. Whether it was short, bristly cat fur deeply embedded in a rug, or long, fluffy dog hair clinging to upholstery, the powerful suction combined with the specialized pet power brush attachment made quick work of it all. We observed a significant reduction in visible pet hair on carpets and furniture, and perhaps more importantly, a noticeable decrease in airborne dander, thanks to the robust filtration system.
The effectiveness of the pet power attachment, coupled with the Lift-Away feature, truly elevates this vacuum for pet owners. We could easily detach the canister and use the specialized tool to deep clean pet beds, cat trees, and upholstered furniture where pet hair tends to accumulate most densely. This targeted approach ensures no corner is left untreated, capturing not just loose hair but also the fine dander that contributes to allergens in the home. One user, who owns four cats, explicitly praised its “awesome” sucking power on their rugs, confirming our findings. Another, a loyal Dyson customer, emphatically stated, “It’s perfect, especially if you have pets.” This unanimous sentiment underscores that the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is not just another vacuum; it’s a dedicated solution for managing the unique challenges of a pet-filled home, making it an essential tool for maintaining a clean and allergen-reduced environment.
What Other Users Are Saying
The general sentiment surrounding the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is overwhelmingly positive, particularly concerning its raw cleaning power. Many users, like ourselves, have been genuinely “impressed” with the sheer amount of dirt and debris it extracts from seemingly clean carpets, with one person noting its ability to pull out construction dust from a brand new home’s carpets in minutes. Perhaps the most compelling endorsements come from individuals who were previously loyal to premium brands, such as Dyson. Several reviewers proclaimed the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum to be superior, with one exclaiming, “I cannot recommend this vacuum enough… This vacuum’s suction is superb!!!.” Another user, after years with a Bissell, reverted to Shark, stating they “couldn’t believe how much dander and dust was in my rug that the bissel didn’t pick up.” The ability to significantly outperform perceived market leaders is a testament to its effectiveness.
However, no product is without its minor criticisms. A recurring point of contention among some users is the cord length, with one professional cleaner expressing disappointment that it was “9’ 11” shorter then our original shark navigator,” necessitating frequent unplugging and re-plugging. Another significant frustration pertains to the maintenance of the brushroll; users found it incredibly difficult to clean, requiring “unscrewing 6 screws and taking the whole lower mechanism apart.” There were also isolated reports of missing advertised attachments or perceived flimsiness in some plastic components, leading to concerns about durability, such as a handle snapping off. While these points highlight areas for potential improvement, they generally don’t detract from the widespread praise for the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum‘s core cleaning performance and Lift-Away versatility.
Comparing the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum to Its Top Alternatives
While the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum stands out for its exceptional suction and versatile Lift-Away design, it exists within a competitive market. Understanding its position relative to other top contenders can help discerning buyers make the most informed decision, aligning their choice with specific cleaning needs and preferences.
1. Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum
- Includes de-tangling technology that automatically clears wrapped hair from the brush bar as you clean
- Easy to maneuver with cleaning modes for deep carpet, low pile and hard floors
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum is a direct competitor, often lauded for its powerful suction, excellent filtration, and signature Ball technology which aids in maneuverability. Where the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum offers a detachable canister for portable cleaning, the Dyson counters with its whole-machine sealed filtration and de-tangling brush bar, specifically designed for pet hair without manual intervention. Users often praise Dyson for its premium feel and robust engineering, though it typically comes at a higher price point. Those prioritizing hands-free brushroll maintenance and an established brand reputation might lean towards the Dyson, while those seeking the extreme versatility of a portable Lift-Away pod for above-floor cleaning and a more budget-friendly option will find the Shark a compelling alternative.
2. Kenmore Elite Upright Bagged Vacuum
- BAGGED UPRIGHT VACUUM: Remove pet hair, dust and more with this multifloor, multi-surface designed vacuum for use in your home, den, or kitchen with a wide sweeper path
- PET HANDIMATE: Air driven turbine spins roller brush to high RPM easily removing dander, stubborn pet hair and other debris off furniture, stairs, car and van seats and out of your vehicle
The Kenmore Elite Upright Bagged Vacuum represents a more traditional approach to upright cleaning, focusing on powerful, consistent suction and a multi-stage bagged filtration system. While the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum boasts a bagless design with a HEPA filter, the Kenmore offers the advantage of completely sealed bag disposal, which can be preferable for severe allergy sufferers who want zero dust exposure during emptying. The Kenmore might lack the cutting-edge Lift-Away versatility and swivel steering found in the Shark, potentially making it less agile for varied tasks and tight spaces. However, for those who value the ultimate in allergen containment, traditional powerful cleaning, and are comfortable with the ongoing cost of bags, the Kenmore Elite remains a strong, reliable choice against the Shark’s modern flexibility.
3. Bissell CrossWave OmniFind Pet Cordless Floor Cleaner
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL PROUDLY SUPPORTS BISSELL PET FOUNDATION AND ITS MISSION TO HELP SAVE HOMELESS PETS.
- POWERFULLY FIND & CAPTURE PET HAIR AND MESSES.
The Bissell CrossWave OmniFind Pet Cordless Floor Cleaner offers a distinctly different cleaning experience compared to the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum. While the Shark is a corded dry vacuum designed for deep cleaning and allergen capture on both carpets and hard floors, the Bissell is a cordless wet-dry vacuum specifically tailored for simultaneously vacuuming and washing hard floors, and light area rugs. This makes the Bissell ideal for quick clean-ups of spills and everyday grime on sealed hard surfaces. However, it cannot deliver the same deep carpet cleaning power, embedded pet hair removal, or advanced HEPA filtration for airborne allergens as the Shark. Consumers with predominantly hard floors who want a convenient, cordless all-in-one wet-dry solution might prefer the Bissell, whereas anyone needing serious suction for carpets, comprehensive dry cleaning, and superior allergen control will find the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum to be the more appropriate and powerful tool.
The Final Verdict: A Powerful Contender for a Truly Clean Home
After extensive testing and drawing upon the experiences of countless users, our verdict on the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is clear: it stands as a truly formidable cleaning machine. Its exceptional suction power, validated by its ability to pull astonishing amounts of debris from seemingly clean surfaces, combined with the unparalleled Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filter, delivers a level of clean that elevates both your floors and your indoor air quality. The innovative Lift-Away feature provides versatility that few traditional uprights can match, making challenging tasks like stair cleaning and above-floor dusting remarkably simple. While the cord length may require occasional re-plugging for vast areas and the brushroll cleaning demands a bit more effort, these minor drawbacks are easily overshadowed by its overall stellar performance, especially for pet owners and those with mixed flooring.
In essence, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum represents an outstanding value proposition, delivering premium cleaning capabilities without the premium price tag often associated with its competitors. We wholeheartedly recommend this vacuum to anyone seeking a powerful, versatile, and highly effective solution for maintaining a pristine home environment, especially if you have pets or suffer from allergies. To experience the difference yourself and finally conquer the battle against household grime, we encourage you to explore the full features and current pricing of the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum today.
Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API