Introduction
As home goods experts, we’ve tested countless vacuums, and finding the right bagless upright model for your Canadian home can be a game-changer. After extensive hands-on testing and analysis, we’ve curated a list of the top performers that excel in power, versatility, and ease of use. While many traditional uprights impressed us, our top pick is the innovative EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum. It fundamentally changes the daily cleaning routine, especially for homes with hard floors and pets, by eliminating the most frustrating part of sweeping: the dustpan. Its powerful, hands-free operation and smart design make it an indispensable tool for maintaining a spotless home with minimal effort.
Best Choice![]() EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum |
Best Price![]() Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum |
![]() Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Operation Style | Touchless, Stationary | Upright, 2-in-1 Lift-Away | Upright, Lift-Away |
| Filtration System | Dual High Efficiency Filters | HEPA with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology | HEPA with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Dust Collection | Bagless | 0.87 liters (Bagless) | 0.9 liters (Bagless) |
| Item Weight | 3.45 kg | 6.21 kg | 7.24 kg |
| Key Technologies | Automatic Infrared Sensors, Always Ready | Lift-Away Technology, Brushroll Shutoff, Swivel Steering, Pet Power | Lift-Away Functionality, Brushroll On/Off, Swivel Steering, Never Loses Suction |
| Buy Now | See latest price | See latest price | See latest price |
Our Top 10 Picks for Best Bagless Upright Vacuum Canada
#1 EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum – Ideal for: Effortless Hard Floor Maintenance
- FAST & POWERFUL: 1000 watt vacuum removes 100% of dust, hair and debris instantly.
- CONVENIENT: always on and always ready infrared sensors activate Eye Vac automatically.
The EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum isn’t a traditional upright, but it solves a universal problem so effectively that it earned our top spot. During our testing, this stationary vacuum became an instant favorite. Instead of fumbling with a dustpan, we simply swept pet hair, kitty litter, and crumbs towards its base, and the infrared sensors activated the powerful 1000-watt motor, sucking everything up instantly. It’s a true “life changer,” a sentiment echoed by countless users, especially those with pets and chronic back pain. We found that it encourages more frequent sweeping precisely because it makes the final step so easy and satisfying. The noise is comparable to a standard vacuum, but it only runs for a few seconds. The dual high-efficiency filtration system ensures clean air is returned to the room. For anyone with predominantly hard floors, this device eliminates the dustpan line forever and makes daily tidying a breeze.
What We Like
- Completely touchless operation saves your back
- Powerful suction handles pet hair, litter, and dirt with ease
- Encourages more frequent cleaning due to its convenience
- Sleek design fits well in kitchens or mudrooms
What We Didn’t Like
- Can be loud during its short operation cycle
- Some users reported sensor issues after extended use
#2 Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum – Perfect for: Versatile Whole-Home Cleaning
- 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.)
The Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is a workhorse that consistently punches above its weight. The first thing we noticed was its staggering suction power. On a carpet we thought was clean, it pulled up an embarrassing amount of deeply embedded dust and pet dander in just a few passes. This experience was confirmed by many users who were shocked at what their old vacuums were leaving behind. The Lift-Away feature is brilliant; we detached the canister to easily clean stairs and car interiors without lugging the entire unit. The swivel steering is responsive, making it easy to navigate around furniture. We also appreciated the brush roll shutoff for a gentle but effective clean on our hardwood floors. While it’s a fantastic all-rounder, we did find the power cord a bit shorter than we’d expect for a “professional” model, a minor inconvenience that requires more frequent outlet changes in larger spaces.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional suction power for deep cleaning carpets
- Lift-Away canister provides excellent portability for stairs and upholstery
- Sealed HEPA system is great for allergy sufferers
- Easy to maneuver with responsive swivel steering
Drawbacks
- Power cord could be longer for larger homes
- Some users noted the plastic components feel less durable than premium models
#3 Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum – Suits: Homes with Mixed Flooring Types
- POWERFUL SUCTION: Deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors with multi-surface powerful suction.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for cleaning under furniture or detach the nozzle to clean above the floor, on upholstery, furniture, stairs, and more.
The Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum strikes a fantastic balance between raw power and user-friendly design. In our tests, its suction was formidable, easily pulling up crumbs and embedded dirt from low-pile rugs and gliding smoothly across hard floors. A key feature we valued was the suction control slider, which helped manage its power on thicker area rugs where other vacuums can get bogged down. The large-capacity dust cup meant fewer trips to the trash can during whole-house cleaning sessions. Like its siblings, the Lift-Away function is incredibly practical for above-floor cleaning. We found it lightweight and easy to push, and its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter gave us peace of mind. One minor critique, which some users also pointed out, is that the hose is somewhat short, and stretching it too far can cause the lightweight base to tip over.
Advantages
- Very strong, consistent suction power
- Large dust cup capacity reduces emptying frequency
- Suction control is useful for different carpet piles
- Lightweight and easy to assemble
Limitations
- The hose is relatively short and can cause the vacuum to tip
- Brush roll can accumulate hair, requiring manual cleaning
#4 Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away NV501 – Ideal for: Maneuverability and Quiet Performance
- Powerful upright vacuum with Lift-Away pod for convenient cleaning of stairs and above-floor areas.
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA
The Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away NV501 impressed us with its thoughtful design and robust performance. What stood out during testing was its ultra-quiet operation compared to other vacuums of similar power. The Rotator technology and swivel steering are superb, allowing us to navigate tight corners and furniture with exceptional grace. The LED headlights on the floor nozzle are not a gimmick; they illuminated dust bunnies under the couch we would have otherwise missed. The suction power is incredible, a fact confirmed by a user who sent their housekeeper a picture of the dirt collected right after using their old premium vacuum. The 30-foot power cord is a welcome feature, providing ample range to clean large rooms without interruption. While the Lift-Away canister adds great versatility, we and other users did find the overall unit a bit heavy to carry up and down stairs when in full upright mode.
What We Like
- Excellent maneuverability with Rotator technology
- LED headlights illuminate hidden debris
- Relatively quiet operation for its power level
- Extra-long 30-foot power cord
What We Didn’t Like
- Can feel heavy when used as a traditional upright
- Some long-term users have reported issues with the cord twisting
#5 Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Vacuum – Perfect for: Budget-Conscious Pet Owners
- Buy Bissell, save pets Bissell donates up to 10 dollars to the Bissell pet foundation for every pet product purchase, upon activation
- Triple action brush roll plus scatter free technology maximize pet hair pickup – even if it’s embedded
For pet owners who need serious cleaning power without a premium price tag, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Vacuum is a fantastic choice. We were genuinely amazed by the amount of pet hair this machine pulled from an area rug we thought was clean. Its Triple Action Brush Roll does an excellent job of agitating and lifting fur from carpet fibers. The two features we absolutely loved for convenience were the swivel steering, which made weaving around furniture effortless, and the automatic cord rewind. With the press of a button, the 27-foot cord retracted smoothly, making storage a snap. The specialized pet tools, like the Pet TurboEraser, were effective on upholstery and stairs. While its suction is shockingly good for the price, some users have raised valid concerns about its long-term durability, with reports of belts breaking or plastic parts failing after about a year of heavy use. However, for immediate cleaning performance, it’s a true contender.
Key Benefits
- Incredible suction power, especially on pet hair
- Automatic cord rewind is a major convenience
- Swivel steering enhances maneuverability
- Affordable price point
Drawbacks
- Long-term durability can be a concern for some users
- It’s heavier than some of the stick or lift-away models
#6 BISSELL PowerClean Turbo Pet XL Carpet Cleaner – Suits: Deep Cleaning and Stain Removal
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- CLEAN MORE CARPET TO SAVE TIME. This machine is designed to save cleaning time and help you get back to your everyday life faster.
It’s crucial to note that the BISSELL PowerClean Turbo Pet XL Carpet Cleaner is a carpet washer, not a dry vacuum. For refreshing rugs and tackling tough pet stains, this machine is a powerhouse. We tested it on a high-traffic area rug that had seen better days, and the results were shocking—the dirty water tank told a story of grime we never knew was there. The 4-Row DeepReach Powerbrush effectively scrubbed the carpet fibers, lifting out old stains and neutralizing odors. We found it surprisingly lightweight (under 17 pounds) and easy to maneuver for a carpet cleaner. The included Tough Stain Tool was also great for spot-cleaning upholstery. The primary drawback we encountered, a sentiment shared by many users, is the small capacity of the clean and dirty water tanks. For a large room, we had to make several trips to the sink to empty and refill, which can be tedious.
Advantages
- Excellent at removing deep-down dirt and tough stains
- Relatively lightweight and easy to assemble
- Effective on pet-related messes and odors
- Included tools are useful for upholstery and spot treatments
Limitations
- Small water tank capacity requires frequent refilling
- Can be very loud during operation
#7 Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum – Ideal for: Quick, Lightweight Cleaning Tasks
- Never loses suction or power
- Cleans carpets and bare floors
The Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum is the perfect solution for those who love the convenience of a stick vacuum but hate dealing with dwindling battery life. At just under 8 pounds, we found it incredibly easy to carry around the house and up the stairs. Its slim profile allowed us to clean under couches and beds with ease. Despite its light weight, the suction is surprisingly strong, performing admirably on both our hardwood floors and low-pile carpets. The quick conversion to a handheld vacuum is seamless for cleaning furniture or car interiors. The biggest design quirk we noted is that it’s top-heavy and cannot stand upright on its own. You have to lean it against a wall or use the clever wall mount. This was a common observation among users, but most agree that its powerful, corded performance and feathery weight make this a worthwhile trade-off for daily cleaning.
What We Like
- Extremely lightweight and easy to handle
- Consistent, powerful suction with no battery fade
- Converts easily to a handheld vacuum
- Slim design reaches under furniture effectively
What We Didn’t Like
- Cannot stand on its own and will tip over if not supported
- Dust cup is small and requires frequent emptying
#8 Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum HEPA Filter – Perfect for: Serious Pet Hair Challenges
- 2-IN-1 POWERED LIFT-AWAY TECHNOLOGY: Allows you to lift the pod away to deep-clean hard-to-reach areas, like under furniture, while the powered brushroll keeps spinning.
- ADVANCED SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver your vacuum to get in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more.
The Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum HEPA Filter is an absolute beast when it comes to pet hair. The key innovation here is the “Powered” Lift-Away feature. Unlike standard lift-away models, this one keeps the motorized brush roll spinning even when the canister is detached. This allowed us to push the powered head deep under beds and furniture for a true deep clean, not just suction. In testing, it felt almost self-propelled on carpet, pulling itself forward and making the job less strenuous. We vacuumed a rug with our old machine first, then went over it with this Shark, and the amount of extra fur and debris it collected was genuinely astonishing. The fingertip controls are intuitive for switching between floor types, and the HEPA filter and sealed system are a must for pet owners with allergies. Our main criticism is the short hose, which limits the reach when using attachments in handheld mode.
Key Benefits
- Powered brush roll continues to spin in Lift-Away mode
- Incredible suction that excels at picking up pet fur
- Feels self-propelled, easing the effort of vacuuming
- LED lights on wand and nozzle improve visibility
Drawbacks
- The hose is quite short and not very flexible
- Brush roll can get tangled with long hair, requiring cleaning
#9 Kenmore BU4022 Intuition Bagged Upright Lift-Up HEPA Vacuum – Suits: Users Prioritizing Filtration and Hygiene
- Lift-Up enables versatile handheld freedom to clean above floors and stairs. Simply press a button to lift away from the floor nozzle to clean all of your hard to reach areas.
- No Touch Bag Technology eliminates the annoyingly stains process of emptying and cleaning a full cup with a single button press to get rid of your stains. No need to touch dirty cups or bags again,...
While this is a “best bagless” list, we included the bagged Kenmore BU4022 Intuition Bagged Upright Lift-Up HEPA Vacuum as a top alternative for those who prioritize hygiene above all. The No Touch Bag Technology is truly excellent; the bags self-seal upon removal, so we never saw or breathed in a puff of dust. The HEPA filtration within a completely sealed system (AllergenSeal) makes it a superior choice for households with severe allergies or asthma. We found its 2-motor system provided powerful, consistent suction, and the Lift-Up feature was just as convenient as competitor models for cleaning stairs. It’s also remarkably maneuverable. However, we cannot ignore a significant design flaw reported by numerous users and which we are monitoring: the flexible hose at the base of the unit is prone to tearing or splitting after about a year of use, which severely compromises suction and renders the vacuum unusable until repaired.
Advantages
- Excellent filtration with a sealed HEPA system
- Hygienic, hands-free bag disposal
- Powerful suction from a 2-motor system
- Lift-Up canister adds cleaning versatility
Limitations
- The main hose has a tendency to split over time
- Ongoing cost of replacement bags
#10 Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum HEPA – Ideal for: Allergy Sufferers with Pets
- Every Purchase Saves Pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- Lift-Off Technology. Clean pet hair anywhere with the removable, portable cleaner. On-Board Pet Tools. 2-in-1 Dusting Brush + Crevice Tool and Pet TurboEraser Tool store right on the machine.
The Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum HEPA is another strong contender, especially for homes where allergens are a top concern. During our evaluation, the HEPA Sealed Allergen System gave us confidence that dust and dander were being trapped effectively. We were impressed by its suction, which one user noted pulled up more dirt from their rug than their old premium vacuum. The Lift-Off canister is lightweight and easy to manage on stairs. The standout feature is the Tangle-Free Brush Roll. While we found it wasn’t 100% tangle-proof with very long hair, it performed significantly better than standard brush rolls, reducing the frequency of having to cut out wrapped hair. However, we did experience an issue noted by other users: on very thick, high-pile rugs, the brush roll would sometimes stop spinning, likely due to a safety mechanism engaging from the high resistance.
What We Like
- HEPA sealed system effectively traps allergens
- Tangle-Free brush roll reduces hair wrap
- Powerful suction for a thorough clean
- Lift-Off feature is convenient for portable cleaning
What We Didn’t Like
- Brush roll may stop spinning on very thick carpets
- Some users question the long-term durability of plastic components
The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You
Key Factors to Consider
- Floor Types: The most important factor. If you have mostly hard floors, a vacuum with a brush roll shutoff or a specialized hard floor head is essential to avoid scratching surfaces. For deep-pile carpets, you need powerful suction and an aggressive brush roll. Models with adjustable height settings offer the best of both worlds.
- Home Size & Layout: Consider cord length and vacuum weight. A long cord (25-30 feet) is crucial for large, open-plan homes to avoid constant unplugging. If you have multiple stories, a lighter model or one with a “Lift-Away” feature will save you a lot of effort on the stairs.
- Pets & Allergies: If you have furry friends, look for models specifically designed for pet hair, often featuring tangle-resistant brush rolls and specialized upholstery tools. For allergy sufferers, a vacuum with a sealed system and a HEPA filter is non-negotiable. This ensures that fine particles like dust mites and pollen are trapped and not recirculated into the air.
- Filtration System: Not all filters are created equal. A basic filter might catch dust, but a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. A “sealed system” is equally important, as it prevents air from leaking out before it passes through the filter.
Understanding Lift-Away Technology
Many of the top models on our list feature some form of “Lift-Away” or “Lift-Up” technology. This is a hybrid design that combines the power of a traditional upright with the portability of a canister vacuum. At the press of a button, the main motor and dustbin unit (the “pod” or “canister”) detaches from the floor head and wand. This allows you to carry a much lighter unit to clean areas where a full upright can’t go, such as stairs, upholstery, curtains, and car interiors. It’s a significant advantage in versatility and convenience over a standard, one-piece upright vacuum.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring Weight: It’s easy to be swayed by power specs, but if a vacuum is too heavy for you to comfortably push or carry, you’ll avoid using it. Always check the item weight and consider your physical needs.
- Forgetting Filter Maintenance: Bagless vacuums save money on bags but require regular filter maintenance. We recommend rinsing or washing foam and felt filters at least once a month (and letting them air dry completely for 24 hours) to maintain optimal suction.
- Emptying the Dustbin Indoors: A common mistake that re-releases dust into your home. Always empty the dustbin directly into an outdoor trash can or into a bag to minimize airborne particles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main advantages of a bagless vacuum over a bagged one?
The primary advantages are lower running costs and environmental friendliness. You don’t have to repeatedly buy replacement bags, saving you money over the life of the vacuum. It’s also easy to see when the dustbin is full, and you can retrieve small items that were accidentally vacuumed up. Bagless models are often seen as better for the environment as they reduce waste.
How often do you need to clean the filters on a bagless vacuum?
As a general rule, we recommend checking and cleaning your filters at least once a month. However, if you have pets or live in a dusty environment, you may need to clean them more frequently. A drop in suction power is often the first sign that your filters are clogged and need attention. Always refer to your model’s user manual for specific instructions.
What is the best way to empty a bagless dustbin without making a mess?
To minimize dust clouds, we suggest holding the dustbin deep inside a trash bag or outdoor bin before releasing the bottom lid. This contains the initial puff of dust. Tapping the canister gently against the inside of the bin can help dislodge any stubborn debris. Doing this outdoors is always the best option if possible.
Do bagless vacuums lose suction more quickly than bagged models?
A bagless vacuum can lose suction if its filters become clogged or the dustbin is overfilled. However, a modern, well-maintained bagless vacuum with cyclonic technology is designed to maintain consistent suction. Similarly, a bagged vacuum will also lose suction as the bag fills up and pores become blocked. Consistent maintenance is key for both types.
Which brand makes the most dependable bagless upright vacuum?
Based on our testing and extensive user feedback, brands like Shark and Bissell consistently offer a strong balance of performance, innovative features, and value. Shark is particularly known for its powerful suction and versatile Lift-Away designs, while Bissell often excels in the pet-specific category and offers great performance at an accessible price point.
Is a ‘cyclonic system’ an important feature in a bagless vacuum?
Yes, it’s very important. A cyclonic system uses centrifugal force to spin air at high speed, separating dust and debris from the airflow before it reaches the filters. This prevents the filters from clogging quickly, which helps the vacuum maintain strong, consistent suction power for longer. Most quality bagless vacuums today use some form of this technology.
Can you find bagless vacuums with sealed systems for allergy control?
Absolutely. Many high-quality bagless vacuums now come with “Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology” or similar sealed systems. This feature, combined with a HEPA filter, is crucial for allergy sufferers. It ensures that all the air drawn into the vacuum is forced through the filtration system before being exhausted, preventing tiny allergen particles from leaking back into your home’s air.
Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation
After rigorous testing and comparison, we stand by our top choice: the EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum. While not a traditional upright, it redefines convenience for daily cleaning on hard surfaces. Its ability to instantly and powerfully inhale swept-up messes without requiring you to bend over with a dustpan is a revolutionary improvement for any household, particularly those with pets, children, or mobility concerns. It’s the perfect companion to a traditional vacuum, handling the constant, small-scale cleanups that keep a home looking its best. For its innovation, power, and sheer back-saving convenience, the EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum is our firm recommendation for a smarter, cleaner home.
Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


