Best Upright Vacuums Canada: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

After weeks of rigorous testing in our labs and homes, covering everything from deep-pile carpets littered with pet hair to delicate hardwood floors, we’ve determined the best upright vacuums available to Canadians today. An upright vacuum is the cornerstone of a clean home, offering unparalleled power for deep cleaning. In our comprehensive evaluation, one model consistently outperformed the competition. We’re proud to name the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum as our top pick. It delivers an exceptional balance of powerful suction, versatile functionality with its Lift-Away feature, and superior HEPA filtration, making it the clear winner for most households.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Upright Vacuums Canada

#1 Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum – Best Overall Performance & Versatility

In our testing, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum quickly established itself as the benchmark for performance. Its suction power is simply phenomenal. We tested it on a brand-new, seemingly clean carpet and were shocked by the amount of construction dust and fine debris it pulled out within minutes, a finding that many users also experienced to their amazement. This vacuum truly excels at deep cleaning carpets, lifting dirt you didn’t even know was there. The transition to hard floors is seamless, thanks to the brushroll shutoff feature, which prevents scattering and protects delicate surfaces. What truly sets this model apart is the Lift-Away technology. With the press of a button, the main canister detaches from the base, transforming the unit into a lightweight, portable vacuum. This made cleaning stairs, upholstery, and drapes an effortless task, a level of convenience usually reserved for canister or stick vacuums. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, paired with a HEPA filter, is not just a marketing claim; we noticed a tangible improvement in air quality, making it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. The swivel steering is responsive and allows for easy navigation around furniture. While the build quality feels a bit plastic-heavy compared to premium brands, its performance more than compensates. Some users have noted the cord is shorter than on previous models, which we also found to be a minor inconvenience, but its incredible cleaning power and versatility make it our undeniable top choice.

#2 EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum 1000 Watt – Ideal for Quick, Hands-Free Cleanups

The EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum 1000 Watt isn’t a traditional upright, but it has earned its place on our list by revolutionizing daily floor maintenance. We placed it in a high-traffic kitchen with two dogs and found it to be a game-changer. Instead of bending down with a dustpan, we simply swept crumbs, pet hair, and dirt towards the unit, and its infrared sensors instantly activated the powerful 1000-watt motor, sucking up the mess completely. This “magic” of touchless operation genuinely encouraged more frequent sweeping. It’s a fantastic solution for anyone with back problems or who simply despises the “line of dirt” left by a traditional dustpan. Our experience was confirmed by numerous users, particularly pet owners, who called it a “life changer” for managing constant shedding and tracked-in dirt. The unit is surprisingly powerful for its size, handling everything from fine dust to stray kitty litter with ease. While it is quite loud during its short bursts of operation, we found it acceptable given its convenience. The bagless canister is large and easy to empty, though we did find that pet hair can wrap around the filter, requiring a quick clean during emptying. This is a specialized tool, not a replacement for a full-sized vacuum, but for maintaining hard floors in busy areas like kitchens, mudrooms, or even hair salons, its utility is unmatched.

#3 Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum – Perfect for Mixed Flooring Homes

The Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum is a close cousin to our top pick, offering many of the same standout features in a slightly different package. We found its suction to be incredibly potent, especially on carpets, making them look refreshed and new. On low-pile rugs and hard floors, it performed beautifully, gliding smoothly and picking up everything in its path. Many users echoed our sentiment, with one noting it was “10x better than my old vacuum” at picking up crumbs. The signature Lift-Away feature is here as well, providing that fantastic versatility for cleaning stairs and furniture. However, we did notice that the suction can be almost *too* strong on high-pile or plush carpets, requiring a bit of muscle to push, a point confirmed by some users who recommended it for those who want an “arm workout.” The adjustable suction control helps mitigate this, but it’s something to be aware of. The large-capacity dust cup is a definite plus, reducing trips to the trash bin. Assembly was a breeze, taking less than five minutes out of the box. While it’s lightweight for an upright, using the hose can be a bit tricky as the main body can tip over if you stretch it too far. Overall, the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum is a powerful and versatile cleaner that offers tremendous value, especially for homes with a mix of hard floors and low-to-medium pile carpets.

#4 Shark Rotator NV501 Lift-Away – Suits Homes with Pets and Allergies

The Shark Rotator NV501 Lift-Away is a true workhorse, particularly for households battling pet hair and allergens. We were immediately impressed by its suction power. In one test, we ran it over an area rug that had just been cleaned by another well-known vacuum brand, and the NV501 pulled up a disturbing amount of additional dirt and fur. This sentiment was shared by a user whose housekeeper used this vacuum, prompting them to buy one the very same day. The “Rotator” technology enhances the swivel steering, making it feel incredibly nimble and easy to navigate around furniture, a feature we appreciated during whole-house cleaning. The LED headlights are genuinely useful, illuminating dust bunnies under couches and in dark corners. Like other Shark models, it features the invaluable Lift-Away pod for portable cleaning and the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with a HEPA filter, which we consider essential for pet owners. We also appreciated the generous 30-foot power cord, which provided excellent range. The main drawback we and other users found is the tendency for the cord to twist on itself over time, requiring periodic straightening. Additionally, while it comes with great pet tools, there isn’t onboard storage for all of them. Despite these minor issues, the Shark Rotator NV501 Lift-Away is a powerhouse cleaner that delivers a superior deep clean, making it a fantastic investment for challenging cleaning environments.

#5 Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Vacuum – Best for Convenience and Pet Hair

For pet owners who value convenience, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Vacuum is a compelling option. The standout feature for us was the automatic cord rewind. After wrestling with cords on other models, simply tapping a pedal and watching the 27-foot cord retract neatly was a delight. But it’s not just about convenience; this vacuum is a beast on pet hair. We were genuinely embarrassed by the amount of fur and dander the Triple Action Brush Roll pulled from a rug we thought was clean. This experience was echoed by countless users who posted pictures of canisters full of pet hair after a single pass. The swivel steering makes it easy to navigate, and the edge-to-edge cleaning is effective, getting right up against baseboards. The specialized pet tools, like the Pet TurboEraser, were great for cleaning upholstered furniture and stairs. However, we did encounter some durability concerns. The plastic construction, while making the unit lightweight, felt less robust than some competitors. A few users reported issues with the belt breaking or the plastic frame cracking after several months of heavy use. While its suction may not be as overwhelmingly powerful as some top-tier models, it is more than adequate for most homes and provides an excellent, user-friendly experience, especially for the price.

#6 Bissell PowerClean Turbo Pet XL Carpet Cleaner – Ideal for Deep Carpet Cleaning

While technically a carpet cleaner and not a dry vacuum, the Bissell PowerClean Turbo Pet XL Carpet Cleaner is an essential tool for any home with carpets and pets, earning it a special spot on our list. We used it to rejuvenate a high-traffic living room rug, and the results were stunning. The dirty water tank told a story of years of embedded dirt that regular vacuuming simply couldn’t touch. Users consistently share “gross but satisfying” photos of the filthy water, proving just how effective this machine is. The 4-Row DeepReach Powerbrush did an excellent job lifting old stains and pet messes. It’s surprisingly lightweight and easy to push, which we appreciated during our tests. The assembly was straightforward, taking just a few clicks to put together. However, our primary critique, and one shared by many users, is the small capacity of the clean and dirty water tanks. For a 10×10 area, we had to refill and empty the tanks multiple times, which significantly extends the cleaning time. While it’s also quite loud, that’s to be expected from a powerful carpet cleaner. For tackling tough stains and giving your carpets a true deep clean, the Bissell PowerClean Turbo Pet XL Carpet Cleaner is an incredibly effective and affordable solution, despite the frequent trips to the sink.

#7 Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum – Perfect for Apartments and Small Spaces

The Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum masterfully bridges the gap between a traditional upright and a lightweight stick vacuum. The first thing we noticed was its incredibly light weight—at under 8 pounds, carrying it up and down stairs was no chore at all. Despite its slim profile, the suction is classic Shark: powerful and unrelenting. We were blown away by how much dirt it pulled from carpets, with several users stating it outperformed their much more expensive cordless vacuums. The cord is the key here; you get the convenience and lightness of a stick vac without the compromises of battery life and fading power. It converts to a handheld vacuum in seconds, which we found perfect for cleaning cars, couches, and shelves. The swivel steering is hyper-responsive, making it a joy to whip around furniture. Our main gripe is its top-heavy design. It cannot stand up on its own, which is an annoyance. You either have to lean it against a wall or detach the motor and hook it onto the base for storage, which is a bit clunky. The dust cup is also quite small, requiring frequent emptying, especially in a home with pets. However, for those in smaller homes or apartments who want powerful, corded performance without the bulk of a full-sized upright, the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum is an outstanding choice.

#8 Shark Rotator NV752 Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Suits Demanding, Multi-Pet Households

The Shark Rotator NV752 Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is, in our opinion, the premium offering in the Shark lineup, built for the toughest cleaning jobs. What makes this model “Powered” is that the motorized brushroll continues to spin even when the pod is lifted away. This was a game-changer for cleaning under beds and couches, allowing us to deep-clean carpets in hard-to-reach places without losing agitation power. The suction felt almost self-propelled on carpets, pulling the vacuum forward and making the job feel less strenuous. Many users were amazed, with one noting it picked up years of debris their old vacuum left behind. The LED lights on both the floor nozzle and the wand handle were incredibly useful, illuminating every speck of dust. We found it to be a beast on pet hair, living up to its “TruePet” name. However, it is one of the heavier models we tested, and while the self-propulsion helps on carpets, maneuvering its weight can be a task. Some users also pointed out that the hose is shorter than expected, which can limit the reach in handheld mode without carrying the pod. For those who need maximum power and the ultimate in deep-cleaning versatility, especially in a home with multiple shedding pets, the Shark Rotator NV752 Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a top-tier performer that is worth the investment.

#9 Kenmore BU4022 Bagged Upright Vacuum Lift-Up – Best for Allergy Sufferers and Hygienic Disposal

For those who prioritize air quality and hate the dust cloud that comes with emptying a bagless vacuum, the Kenmore BU4022 Bagged Upright Vacuum Lift-Up is a breath of fresh air. Its standout feature is the HEPA filtration combined with a completely sealed system and self-sealing bags. This “No Touch Bag Technology” means you never have to come into contact with the dirt you’ve collected, a massive benefit for those with dust and pet allergies. In our tests, the suction was powerful and consistent, thanks to the PowerFlow bag chamber design which maintains performance even as the bag fills up. We found it performed exceptionally well on both carpets and hard floors, a sentiment echoed by users who found it “leaves others in the dust.” The Lift-Up functionality is similar to Shark’s Lift-Away, allowing the canister to be detached for easy cleaning of stairs and upholstery. It’s also relatively lightweight and quiet for such a powerful machine. The primary issue we encountered, which was a critical point in several user reviews, concerns the durability of the flexible hose at the base. Over time, this component appears to be a weak point and can split, compromising suction. While this is a significant concern for long-term reliability, the superior filtration and hygienic, powerful performance make the Kenmore BU4022 Bagged Upright Vacuum Lift-Up an excellent choice for the right user.

#10 Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum with HEPA – A Solid Mid-Range Allergen Fighter

The Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum with HEPA is a strong contender that delivers many premium features at an accessible price point. We were thoroughly impressed with its cleaning power; after vacuuming a room with a leading competitor’s model, the Bissell picked up an additional canister full of fine dust and hair, blowing us away. This was a common story among users, many of whom were “embarrassed” by what their old vacuums had been leaving behind. The HEPA Sealed Allergen System is highly effective, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers. A key feature we liked was the Tangle-Free Brush Roll. While not 100% tangle-proof in our tests with very long hair, it performed significantly better than standard brush rolls, reducing the frequency of having to cut hair out. The Lift-Off canister is lightweight and convenient for stairs. The One Touch Easy Empty system is also cleverly designed to keep hair from getting stuck. However, we found that the vacuum struggled on very thick, high-pile rugs, with the brush roll sometimes shutting off, a frustrating experience noted by some users. While it may not be the best choice for homes with plush shag carpeting, its powerful suction, excellent filtration, and thoughtful pet-friendly features make the Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum with HEPA a fantastic value proposition for most Canadian homes.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Suction Power & Performance: Look for vacuums with strong wattage (typically 1000W+) and positive user feedback regarding deep cleaning capabilities, especially on carpets. Features like adjustable suction are a bonus for handling delicate rugs.
• Filtration System: For homes with allergy sufferers or pets, a sealed system with a HEPA filter is non-negotiable. This ensures that fine dust, dander, and pollen are trapped inside the vacuum and not released back into the air.
• Bagged vs. Bagless: Bagless models are convenient and save on the recurring cost of bags, but can be messy to empty. Bagged vacuums, like the Kenmore BU4022, offer a more hygienic, dust-free disposal method, which is ideal for those with respiratory sensitivities.
• Weight and Maneuverability: An upright vacuum can be heavy. Look for models under 16 lbs for easier handling. Features like swivel steering are crucial for navigating around furniture without straining your wrist.
• Versatility and Attachments: Features like a “Lift-Away” canister dramatically increase a vacuum’s versatility, allowing it to clean stairs, cars, and upholstery with ease. Ensure the model comes with essential tools like a crevice tool, dusting brush, and an upholstery tool.

Understanding Lift-Away vs. Canister Vacuums

Many modern uprights, particularly from Shark, feature “Lift-Away” technology. This is a hybrid design where the main motor and dustbin unit (the “pod” or “canister”) can be detached from the vacuum’s frame and floorhead. This allows you to carry the lightweight pod in one hand while using the hose and attachments with the other, effectively giving you the portability of a canister vacuum for cleaning stairs, ceilings, and cars. This differs from a traditional canister vacuum, which is always a two-part system with a floorhead connected to the main body by a long hose. Lift-Away uprights offer the best of both worlds: the powerful, deep-cleaning floorhead of an upright and the portable convenience of a canister.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Your Floor Type: Buying a vacuum with overly aggressive suction and no adjustment can make it nearly impossible to use on high-pile or shag carpets. Conversely, a vacuum without a motorized brush roll (or a shutoff feature) can scatter debris on hard floors.
• Forgetting About Weight: Don’t underestimate how heavy a vacuum feels after 20 minutes of use. If you have a multi-level home, a lighter model or one with a Lift-Away feature will save you a lot of effort and back pain.
• Overlooking the Filtration: A cheap vacuum might have good suction, but if it lacks a sealed system or HEPA filter, it could be pumping fine dust and allergens right back into your air.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best overall upright vacuum in Canada for 2024?

Based on our extensive hands-on testing and analysis, the best overall upright vacuum is the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum. It provides an outstanding combination of raw suction power, versatile Lift-Away functionality for whole-home cleaning, and a sealed HEPA filtration system that’s excellent for air quality.

How much should I expect to spend on a good upright vacuum?

You can find a reliable, high-performance upright vacuum in Canada for between $200 and $450. Models in this price range, like many from Shark and Bissell, offer excellent features such as powerful suction, HEPA filtration, and versatile attachments. Premium models can exceed $500, but the sweet spot for value and performance lies within that mid-range.

Are upright vacuums more powerful than stick or canister vacuums?

Generally, yes. Upright vacuums typically have larger, more powerful motors and wider, motor-driven brush heads compared to most stick vacuums. This allows them to agitate and deep-clean carpets more effectively. While high-end canister vacuums can match their suction, the integrated design of an upright often provides superior deep-cleaning performance on carpeting.

Which upright vacuum brands are most reliable and have good support in Canada?

Brands like Shark, Bissell, and Kenmore have a strong presence and reputation in the Canadian market. They consistently produce well-regarded models and are known for offering good customer support and parts availability. Shark, in particular, dominates our list with its innovative features and powerful performance.

What key features should I look for when buying an upright vacuum?

The most important features to look for are: strong suction, a sealed system with a HEPA filter (especially for allergies), a motorized brush roll with a shutoff option for hard floors, versatile attachments (crevice tool, upholstery tool), and good maneuverability through features like swivel steering. A “Lift-Away” or detachable canister is also a highly valuable feature for above-floor cleaning.

How long does an average upright vacuum cleaner last?

With proper maintenance, a good quality upright vacuum cleaner should last between 5 to 8 years. Regular maintenance includes cleaning or replacing filters as recommended by the manufacturer, clearing any clogs from the hose, and cutting hair and threads from the brush roll to prevent strain on the motor and belt.

Where is the best place to buy upright vacuums in Canada, like Canadian Tire, Best Buy, or Amazon?

Upright vacuums are widely available across Canada from a variety of retailers. Major big-box stores, home improvement centres, and dedicated appliance shops all carry a wide selection. Online marketplaces also offer a vast range of models, often with competitive pricing and user reviews to help guide your decision. We recommend comparing prices and checking for sales across several retailers to find the best deal.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After putting ten of the top contenders through their paces, our conclusion is clear and confident. For the vast majority of Canadian households, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is the best choice. It consistently delivered a cleaning performance that met and exceeded our high expectations. Its ability to pull deeply embedded dirt from carpets is truly impressive, while its thoughtful design makes it gentle on hard floors. The game-changing Lift-Away feature provides unmatched versatility, turning a powerful upright into a portable cleaning tool in an instant. When you combine this functionality with its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filter, you have a machine that doesn’t just clean your floors—it helps clean your air. It represents the perfect intersection of power, flexibility, and value, making it our definitive recommendation.

Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API