The Best Handheld Vacuums

HOW TO CHOOSE = Are you trying to find one of the best handheld vacuums? Don’t get rid of your full-size vacuum.

Handheld units are good for small messes and tight corners, but they won’t replace your present vacuum. Given the limited uses, your primary decision should be to select between plug-in and battery operated. Your choice.

A short hose comes with some models. This lets you extend the reach of the vacuum under furniture or car seats. Most users don’t appear to use these – they simply carry the vacuum to where they need it.

A quick summary is that these vacuums are a convenience, allowing you to clean up a car interior or small mess without having to pull the larger vacuum out of the closet.

THE REVIEW = The Best Cordless Handheld Vacuum is the Black & Decker PHV1800 Pivot Vac. This is the top cordless vacuum in testing. Reviewers say it works well at picking up all kinds of debris.

Owners say it’s powerful and easy to use, with enough battery runtime to do the required cleaning. This model sells for about $70.

Other top performers include:

Best Cored Hand Vacuum = Bissell 33A1 Pet Hair Eraser @ $35.

I can’t believe they rated the Shark Cordless Hand Vac SV736 as the Best Budget Cordless Vacuum. I’ve had experience with 3 different Shark products and all 3 needed repair within the first 3 months. I won’t buy anything made by Shark, and I wouldn’t recommend the brand to anyone else. But if you're interested, it sells for $40.

Best price found in Dec., ’09 and again in Apr., '10 = Amazon.com Marketplace is the best place to buy.

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