When choosing a vacuum for vinyl plank floors, it’s essential to find one that combines strong suction with a gentle touch to avoid damaging the surface. Look for models with soft brush rolls or specialized floor attachments to pick up fine dust and larger debris without scratching. In our extensive review process, we evaluated over 100 vacuum cleaners and analyzed 152,026 customer reviews.
Six vacuums earned their place in our buying guide after this rigorous process. Our unique approach uses our scientific True Score certification, verifying products as tested and filtering out fake and low-quality reviews. These top-performing vacuums excelled, offering reliable and safe cleaning for vinyl plank floors.
How Did We Rank the Best Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors?
Our team delved into over 200 websites to find the best vacuums for vinyl plank floors. We meticulously analyzed testing methods, customer feedback, and expert reviews. The criteria we focused on include 1 required test result and 1 must-have specification. This comprehensive approach allowed us to create a buying guide that highlights the most efficient and effective vacuums for your flooring needs.
Our commitment to unbiased reviews is powered by our ‘True Score’ system, targeting low quality and fake reviews. When you shop through our links, you’re backing our mission. Dive deeper to see how.
?️ Minimum Specifications
- Must work on all floors or hardwood floors
? Test Criteria
- Bare Floor Performance: The vacuum sucks up 95% of debris when cleaning bare surfaces such as tile, vinyl planks, and hardwood floors.
Latest Updates
- 06/21/2024: Republished the list to include the best vacuum cleaners for vinyl plank floors based on our True Score system.
Top Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors For 2024
Prices accurate at the time of publishing
Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Dyson V15 Detect
Best Cordless For Pet Hair
The Dyson V15 Detect excels on vinyl plank, hardwood, and tiling, offering superior cleaning and a HEPA filter in a lightweight, cordless design, though it’s as loud as a washing machine.
True Score
919119Experts
932kCustomers
Cosmic Wonder
SAVE $200$799.99$599.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Laser illumination technology
- Incredible performance on both carpets and hard floors
- Lightweight design
- Decent battery life
- Anti-allergenic HEPA filter
Reasons to Avoid
- Complicated maneuvrability on deep carpets
- Relatively low-capacity 0.45L dust cup
- Plastic construction
Specifications
Bagless Yes 
Bin Capacity 0.2 gal 
Brush Roll Shut-Off No 
Carpet Height Adjustments Yes 
Cleaning Path Width 10″ 
Compatible Floor Type All floors 
Cord Length Cordless 
Corded/Cordless Cordless 
Filter Type Other 
Hypoallergenic Yes 
Pet Yes 
Product Weight 6.7 lbs 
Vacuum Type Handheld vacuums 
Wet And Dry Usage No All Specs
Test Results
Bare Floor Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 99 Carpet Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 92 Pet Hair Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 100 Noise Level (dB) 73 All Retailers
$599.99$800Save $200
$631.95$750Save $118
$631.95$750Save $118
Our Verdict
The Dyson V15 Detect provides exceptional cleaning power for vinyl plank floors in a convenient, cordless package. With an impressive 98.59% of debris cleaned from hard surfaces, it’s perfectly suited for vinyl, hardwood, and tiling. Moreover, it handles carpets and pet hair effectively, removing a best-in-class 91.77% and 100% debris, respectively. The included HEPA filter ensures that allergens and dirt are trapped instead of being recirculated into your home.
It’s important to note that the V15’s noise level is about as loud as a washing machine or air conditioner, at 72.54 dB. If noise is a concern, the Samsung Bespoke Jet offers a quieter, cheaper, albeit slightly less powerful alternative.
Weighing just 6.7 lbs, the V15 is lightweight and easy to maneuver. However, its bin capacity is relatively small at 0.2 gal, necessitating more frequent emptying during extensive cleaning sessions. With a cleaning path width of 10 inches, it’s more suited for smaller homes and apartments, though it may be narrow for larger spaces.
Despite its premium price tag, the Dyson V15 Detect is worthwhile if you’re looking for a versatile, lightweight vacuum that transitions seamlessly across different floor types, including vinyl plank, without sacrificing performance.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Samsung Bespoke Jet
Best Cordless Stick
The Samsung Bespoke Jet combines lightweight design, quiet operation, and robust cleaning power. It excels on vinyl plank floors and carpets and offers near-perfect pet hair removal. Despite its mid-range price, it is an excellent choice.
True Score
88877Experts
91560Customers
Absolutely Fresh
$524.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- The cleaning station simplifies emptying the dust cup
- Two battery packs
- Lightweight design
- Turbo brush accessory
- Excellent performance on carpets and hard floors
Reasons to Avoid
- Doesn’t support wet cleaning
- Bulk two-in-one floor head
Specifications
Bagless Yes Bin Capacity 0.2 gal Brush Roll Shut-Off No Carpet Height Adjustments No Cleaning Path Width 9.8″ Compatible Floor Type All floors Cord Length Cordless Corded/Cordless Cordless Filter Type 5-stage, Cyclonic, HEPA Hypoallergenic Unknown Pet Yes Product Weight 6 lbs Vacuum Type Stick Vacuums Wet And Dry Usage No All Specs
Test Results
Bare Floor Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 98 Carpet Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 92 Pet Hair Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 100 Noise Level (dB) 71 All Retailers
- $524.99
- $699.99
- $699.00$899Save $200
Our Verdict
If you’re searching for a vacuum cleaner that is both lightweight and quiet without compromising on cleaning power for your vinyl plank floors, consider the Samsung Bespoke Jet. It boasts a best-in-class noise level of just 70.525 dB—about as loud as a washing machine—and weighs a mere 6 lbs, making it effortless to maneuver around your home. Additionally, it excels in removing 97.71% of debris from bare floors, including vinyl plank. Pet owners will appreciate its near-perfect pet hair performance, with 99.5% of debris picked up, and it also performs admirably on carpets, capturing 91.7% of debris.
If you’re willing to trade bin size for enhanced floor cleaning capabilities, the Shark Stratos Cordless is an alternative that picks up slightly more debris on bare floors and costs less than the Jet. However, it falls short on carpet performance and is notably louder.
Nonetheless, the Samsung Bespoke Jet remains an outstanding option if you’re looking for an effective, quiet, lightweight vacuum cleaner for your vinyl plank floors. Its stellar performance on bare floors, carpets, and pet hair, coupled with its low noise level and ease of use, ensure it provides great value despite being in the upper mid-range price bracket.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Shark Cordless Vertex Pro Powered Lift-Away
Best Carpets
The Shark Cordless Vertex Pro offers exceptional cleaning on vinyl plank floors and pet hair, with a large bin and hypoallergenic features, making it a great choice despite its weight and noise.
True Score
84842Experts
87340Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $1$399.99$399.00Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent performance on all floor types
- Good battery life
- Outstanding pet hair pick-up rate
- Low on-going costs
- LED headlights
Reasons to Avoid
- The brush roll is not removable
- Poor stain-removal performance
- Lacks a turbo brush
Specifications
Bagless Yes Bin Capacity 0.34 gal Brush Roll Shut-Off No Carpet Height Adjustments No Cleaning Path Width 10″ Compatible Floor Type Carpet, Hardwoods Cord Length Cordless Corded/Cordless Cordless Filter Type HEPA Hypoallergenic Yes Pet Yes Product Weight 12.4 lbs Vacuum Type Stick Vacuums Wet And Dry Usage No All Specs
Test Results
Bare Floor Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 99 Carpet Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 89 Pet Hair Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 100 Noise Level (dB) 77 All Retailers
- $399.00$400Save $1
- $399.99
- $599.00
Our Verdict
Shark’s Cordless Vertex Pro Powered Lift-Away excels at cleaning vinyl plank floors, clearing a best-in-class 98.565% of debris easily, making it an exceptional choice for homes with such flooring. It also achieves perfect pet hair removal, scoring 100% in debris cleaning, which is ideal for pet owners.
While its performance on carpets is solid at 89.36%, better options are available for those prioritizing carpet cleanings, such as the Samsung Bespoke Jet, which offers superior performance but at a higher price and slightly less effectiveness on vinyl plank floors.
The Vertex Pro operates at a noise level of 77 dB, comparable to a washing machine, which might be a consideration for noise-sensitive pets or neighbors. However, it features a large bin capacity of 0.34 gal, minimizing the need for frequent emptying—ideal for larger homes or heavy shedding pets. Weighing 12.4 lbs, it is the heaviest model on our list, but its lift-away design alleviates some of the weight, making it easier to handle.
Despite its weight and noise level, the Shark Cordless Vertex Pro offers hypoallergenic features and a HEPA filter, enhancing its appeal to those with allergies or sensitivities. Its outstanding performance on vinyl plank floors, excellent pet hair removal capability, and large bin capacity ensure that the Lift-Away provides great value and is a top choice for effectively maintaining clean floors.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Shark Stratos Cordless
Best Hardwood Floors
The Shark Stratos Cordless offers outstanding cleaning for vinyl plank floors, with 98.825% of debris removed and perfect pet hair performance. Though louder and heavier, its effectiveness and mid-range price make it a valuable choice for homes with pets.
True Score
84866Experts
85776Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $200$499.99$299.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Impressive suction power
- Great bare floor performance
- Great Carpet cleaning performance
- Excellent pet hair cleaning performance
Reasons to Avoid
- Attachments are very limited
Specifications
Bagless Yes Bin Capacity 0.18 gal Brush Roll Shut-Off Unknown Carpet Height Adjustments Yes Cleaning Path Width 10″ Compatible Floor Type All floors Cord Length Cordless Corded/Cordless Cordless Filter Type HEPA Hypoallergenic Yes Pet Yes Product Weight 8.9 lbs Vacuum Type Stick Vacuums Wet And Dry Usage No All Specs
Test Results
Bare Floor Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 99 Carpet Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 89 Pet Hair Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 100 Noise Level (dB) 77 All Retailers
- $299.99$500Save $200
- $319.95$400Save $80
Our Verdict
The Shark Stratos Cordless vacuum cleaner delivers exceptional cleaning performance on vinyl plank floors, removing an impressive 98.825% of debris and leaving your floors virtually spotless. It also excels in pet hair removal, achieving a perfect 100% debris-cleaned score. Combined with a HEPA filter, this makes it an ideal choice for pet owners and those with allergies. However, its bin capacity is slightly smaller at 0.18 gal, which may necessitate more frequent emptying, particularly in homes with pets.
While it performs adequately on carpets, cleaning 89.28% of debris, better options are available, such as the Samsung Bespoke Jet, which, although more expensive, offers superior carpet cleaning but slightly less effectiveness on vinyl plank floors.
The Shark Stratos Cordless is heavier and louder, weighing 8.9 lbs and operating at a noise level of 76.65 dB. It might not be ideal if you’re sensitive to noise or live in a space where quiet is essential. This vacuum’s sound level is comparable to a washing machine and can overpower normal conversation.
Priced within the mid-range category, the Shark Stratos Cordless offers excellent value for the money despite its higher noise level and weight. Its superb performance in cleaning vinyl plank floors and removing pet hair makes it an excellent choice for maintaining pristine floors in your home and managing the mess from shedding pets.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Shark Stratos Ultralight
Best Lightweight
This budget-friendly vacuum excels on vinyl plank floors and pet hair. Despite its moderate noise and weight, it offers robust performance with a HEPA filter for allergy sufferers.
True Score
83831Experts
861kCustomers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $181$399.99$219.00Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Good bare floor cleaning performance
- Decent carpet cleaning performance
- Great pet hair performance
Reasons to Avoid
- Below average suction power rating
Specifications
Bagless Yes Bin Capacity 0.2 gal Brush Roll Shut-Off No Carpet Height Adjustments No Cleaning Path Width 8.25″ Compatible Floor Type All floors Cord Length 30 ft Corded/Cordless Corded Filter Type HEPA Hypoallergenic Yes Pet Yes Product Weight 8.6 lbs Vacuum Type Stick Vacuums Wet And Dry Usage No All Specs
Test Results
Bare Floor Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 98 Carpet Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 82 Pet Hair Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 99 Noise Level (dB) 77 All Retailers
- $219.00$400Save $181
- $229.99$300Save $70
- $244.99$300Save $55
Our Verdict
If you’re on a budget but need a vacuum that excels on vinyl plank floors, the Shark Stratos Ultralight is an excellent option. It clears 97.5% of debris from such floors, ensuring they remain immaculate. The Ultralight also impresses with its pet hair removal, capturing 99.33% of debris, making it ideal for pet owners. However, its carpet cleaning efficiency is 82.25%, making it somewhat less effective on carpets and rugs but still quite serviceable.
Despite its name, the vacuum weighs 8.6 lbs. While not the lightest option—such as the Samsung Bespoke Jet, which is lighter at 6 lbs but pricier—the Ultralight remains a viable, more affordable alternative. It operates at a noise level of 76.8 dB, comparable to a washing machine, and has a bin capacity of 0.2 gal, which may necessitate frequent emptying if you’re dealing with a lot of pet hair or dust.
Additionally, it includes a HEPA filter and hypoallergenic features, enhancing its appeal to those with allergies. Despite some compromises, the Shark Stratos Ultralight provides exceptional value, particularly its strong performance on vinyl plank floors and pet hair removal. It’s a smart choice for anyone seeking a vacuum that balances performance, usability, and value, especially suited for homes with vinyl plank floors and pets.
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Best Overall
Runner Up
Best Value
Best Budget
Best Mid-Range
Premium Pick
Shark Vertex Pro
Best Pet Hair
The Shark Vertex Pro offers exceptional cleaning on vinyl plank floors and pet hair with a 98.5% debris removal rate, though its moderate carpet performance and loud operation may limit its suitability for some homes.
True Score
80813Experts
82351Customers
Absolutely Fresh
SAVE $150$449.99$299.99Read More
Snapshot
Reasons to Buy
- Has an anti-allergen HEPA filter
- Low noise output
- LED screen for status display
- Large dirt canister
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Reasons to Avoid
- High maintenance requirements
- Struggles with fine debris on low pile carpet
- Long charge time
Specifications
Bagless Yes Bin Capacity 0.25 gal Brush Roll Shut-Off Unknown Carpet Height Adjustments Unknown Cleaning Path Width 10″ Compatible Floor Type Carpet, Hardwoods Cord Length Unknown Corded/Cordless Cordless Filter Type HEPA Hypoallergenic Yes Pet Yes Product Weight 8.82 lbs Vacuum Type Stick Vacuums Wet And Dry Usage No All Specs
Test Results
Bare Floor Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 99 Carpet Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 83 Pet Hair Performance (% of Debris Cleaned) 100 Noise Level (dB) 82 All Retailers
- $299.99$450Save $150
- $429.00$480Save $51
- $449.99
Our Verdict
The Shark Vertex Pro vacuum cleaner excels at removing vinyl plank floors and removing pet hair. It efficiently cleans 98.5% of debris from such surfaces, closely matching some of the top performers. Its pet hair cleaning efficacy is also outstanding, with 99.66% debris removal, making it an excellent choice for pet owners. However, its performance on carpets is moderate, cleaning 82.61% of debris, which may not be sufficient for homes with extensive carpeting.
The Vertex Pro might not be suitable for noise-sensitive environments, as it operates at a noise level of 82.35 dB, comparable to some lawnmowers. This could be problematic in homes with thin walls or easily frightened pets.
With a bin capacity of 0.25 gal, the Vertex Pro is adequate for most homes but may need more frequent emptying in larger spaces or in homes with pets that shed significantly. Weighing 8.82 lbs, it maintains maneuverability despite its robust capabilities.
Despite some noise and carpet cleaning limitations, the Shark Vertex Pro is a solid mid-range option. It delivers exceptional cleaning on vinyl plank floors and pet hair, making it suitable for most homes, especially those prioritizing these features. Just be aware that its operation will be noticeable.
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Which Criteria Matters for Testing Best Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors?
By focusing on these criteria (1 required), anyone can quickly and easily compare these vacuum cleaners and how they’ll perform. This helps you make an informed decision and purchase a vacuum cleaner that will meet your needs.
| CRITERIA | RANGE | REQUIRED | DEFINITION |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bare Floor Performance | > 95% | Yes | How much debris the vacuum sucks up when cleaning bare surfaces like tile, vinyl planks, and hardwood floors. |
Our Trusted Data Sources
We looked at 120+ vacuum cleaner reviewers and found that 27 are trustworthy (60%+ Trust Rating). The three we have listed below are our most trusted for vacuum cleaner.
- Dagobiet Morales Alfaro – RTings, LinkedIn
- Derek Hales – Modern Castle, LinkedIn
- Sabine Heinlein – Wirecutter, LinkedIn
Interested in a comprehensive analysis of our data sources? We’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of every vacuum cleaner review website we’ve identified, organized by their respective Trust Ratings from highest to lowest. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve meticulously reviewed each publication and verified the data by checking whether the authors have bio links to MuckRack or LinkedIn. We’re committed to not only checking the facts but ensuring their veracity.
Vacuum Cleaner Test Data & Results
1. Bare Floor Performance Test Results
As the name suggests, bare floor performance references how well a vacuum does when it’s cleaning up tiles, vinyl planks, or hardwood flooring. Debris comes in a variety of sizes of course, and much of the testing revolves around picking up debris that ranges in size from cereal to bits of dirt to sand to a mix of everything above and more.
We recommend that a vacuum be able to pick up at least 95% of debris from a bare floor to ensure you end up with clean floors. Hitting a perfect score is obviously ideal, but the worse a vacuum performs here, the more work you need to do sweeping up or re-vacuuming. Missing debris is frustrating, and can invite pests if you miss bits of food, or annoyance if you step on something barefoot and hurt yourself.
Bare Floor Performance
> 95%
Acceptable range of performance
Definition: How much debris the vacuum sucks up when cleaning bare surfaces like tile, vinyl planks, and hardwood floors.
Units of Measurement: % (percentage)
Tools to Measure: Scale
Why It’s Important:
A vacuum is supposed to clean, so if it can’t pick up most of the debris on a floor, it’s not doing its job.
Bare Floor Performance in % (higher is better; 0 = No Data)
Best Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors: Mistakes To Avoid
- Noise Level: Ignoring noise levels. Always check the noise level specifications. A vacuum might be efficient but could produce more noise than you’d prefer. Aim for quieter models that operate under 60-65 dB for a quieter experience.
- Battery Life: Overlooking battery life. A vacuum is only useful if it can clean your space effectively. If using a cordless vacuum, ensure the model you choose balances sufficient battery life with its performance needs.
- Suction Power: Disregarding suction power. Some vacuums might compromise on suction power to reduce noise. Make sure the model you select provides adequate suction to clean your vinyl plank floors thoroughly. When deciding between a canister and an upright vacuum, consider that canister vacuums often offer better suction and versatility, while upright vacuums can be more convenient for larger areas.
- Maintenance Needs: Forgetting maintenance needs. Consider the ease of maintenance. Vacuums with complex maintenance requirements can become a hassle in the long run. Look for models with easy-to-clean dustbins and filters.
The Best Vacuums for Vinyl Plank Floors Tests Compared
Product |
True Score
|
Bare Floor Performance
|
Carpet Performance
|
Pet Hair Performance
|
Noise Level
| |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 91 |
|
|
|
|  $599.99 $800 $200 |
| 88 |
|
|
|
|  $524.99 |
Shark Cordless Vertex Pro Powered Lift-Away
| 84 |
|
|
|
|  $399.00 $400 $1 |
| 84 |
|
|
|
| $299.99 $500 $200 |
| 83 |
|
|
|
| $219.00 $400 $181 |
| 80 |
|
|
|
| $299.99 $450 $150 |
