The 10 Best Commercial Vacuum Cleaners

If you run a local cleaning business, you know that owning at least one superb vacuum cleaner is essential. 

But if you are just starting out, you may want recommendations. Or perhaps you’re a small operation. You may be realizing a residential vacuum isn’t cutting it.

Switching to a commercial vacuum cleaner can radically improve the quality of your work and productivity. And increased productivity boosts your bottom line.

Here’s a detailed look at how commercial vacuum cleaners are vital for professional cleaners of all kinds. You’ll also learn what makes them different from residential-grade vacuums.

Want to know what to look for in a commercial vacuum cleaner? Look over our handy checklist. Once you understand what you need, review our recommendations for the six best commercial vacuum cleaners. Use these selections to find the best model for your cleaning business.

The Top 10 Commercial Vacuum Cleaners 

When you begin shopping for commercial vacuum cleaners, you’ll see how many are on the market. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the options, we’ve got you covered.  

Here are 10 commercial vacuum cleaner models we recommend: 

Sanitaire TRANSPORT Commercial Cordless Vacuum 

A commercial backpack vacuum adds portability to your cleaning routine. The cordless Sanitaire TRANSPORT increases flexibility with battery power and an ergonomic design for extra comfort. 

Weight 

Weight is especially important for the best commercial backpack vacuums. The Sanitaire comes in at 14.6 pounds. It’s light enough for long-term use, and shoulder and waist straps help distribute the weight evenly. 

Features 

The TRANSPORT has a 4-quart capacity. It’s powered by two 24V 8.0Ah batteries, providing power for 70 minutes. There’s also a dual power setting that can maximize runtime. It has an adjustable wand and HEPA air filtration system, which uses a disposable two-layer paper bag.  

The cleaning tools for this commercial backpack vacuum include:  

• Curved aluminum wands 

• Dusting brush 

• Crevice tool 

• Carpet tool 

• Bare floor tools 

Price 

At around $800, this vacuum is on the pricey side. As with all cordless electric machinery, the battery accounts for much of the cost.  

Consider the flexibility and time savings of the TRANSPORT to decide if it’s a good investment. Is it worth it to be able to clean hard-to-reach places quickly? If you answer “yes,” this Sanitaire model is a good value.  

ProForce 1500XP Commercial Upright Vacuum Cleaner  

If you need one of the best commercial upright vacuum cleaners, the ProForce 1500XP delivers with a two-motor setup. This vacuum provides a deep clean. The suction system and brush roller motor work separately to handle difficult cleaning challenges.  

Weight 

The 1500XP weighs 18 pounds. Most of the weight is in the body and dual motors. Given its cleaning power and 3.25-quart capacity, that’s relatively lightweight. The handle is only 4.7 pounds. 

Features 

This ProForce model has a 15-inch path and a 50-foot cord, so it can cover larger areas relatively quickly. An attached hose lets you clean corners and crevices without pausing. The ProLevel Filter system with HEPA media removes up to 98.73% of particles. The 1500XP is ideal for businesses concerned about air quality.  

Other features include:  

• 7-foot hose with wand 

• HEPA air filter 

• crevice tool  

• Additional available attachments 

Price 

The best heavy-duty commercial vacuums require an investment. At more than $700, the ProForce 1500XP is certainly not cheap. However, the dual-motor design and air filtration system could bring value to many businesses.  

If you value deep cleaning and clean air, the ProForce 1500XP may be worth the investment.  

Shark POWERDETECT Upright Bagless Vacuum 

The Shark POWERDETECT is one of the best commercial vacuums in terms of advanced technology.  

It has a dual roller system that always keeps in contact with the floor and uses sensors to detect dirt. You don’t have to stare at the floor to see if you’re getting all the dust—the sensors will tell you. 

Weight 

The Shark weighs 17 pounds. However, the dual rollers and pivoting handle make it easy to control. You won’t have to strain when making turns or backing out of corners.  

Features  

This Shark model has a 30-foot cord and a 1.89-foot hose. The cleaning path is 12 inches, and the allergen-sealed bagless container can hold 2.02 quarts of dust. There’s also plenty of tech.  

For instance, floor sensors can detect floor type and adjust suction and roller speed accordingly. Edge detection increases power near walls and baseboards to get dust on the edge of the cleaning path.  

The POWERDETECT is available with lots of add-ons:  

• Anti-allergen dust brush 

• Odor-neutralizing cartridge 

• HEPA filter 

• Pet tools 

• Multi-angle extension brush  

Price 

The POWERDETECT comes with several different add-on packages. On its own, the price is just over $400. Given all the onboard tech, this is a pretty good value. Various extensions and filters can add $100 or more to the cost.  

If you think the best commercial vacuum should rely on technology, the Shark POWERDETECT is a good value.  

Prolux 6000 Upright Commercial Vacuum  

This Prolux model has all the design elements for convenient, extended use. Designed for commercial customers, it has deep cleaning power and a sizeable 4.5-liter capacity.  

If you want an upright commercial vacuum with longevity, this model will impress. Features like a steel bottom plate are specifically for heavy-duty work.  

Weight  

It weighs a reasonable 19 pounds for a vacuum made of steel components. Despite its heft, the ergonomic handle and rubber wheels make it easy to handle.  

Features 

This Prolux model lets you clean without stopping. The 6-foot hose and crevice tool are in a holster right on the side of the vacuum. The cord is 40 feet long, and the pivot lock feature lets you set the vacuum for easy steering or straight-line cleaning.  

You get plenty of extras with this model, including:  

• Sealed filtration system with a 5-stage, N59 filter 

• 3-piece extension set 

• Rubber bumpers  

• Extendable wand 

• Auto-adjusting power head 

Price 

Under $350 is reasonable for an upright commercial vacuum cleaner with a 3-year motor warranty.  

If you need a heavy-duty upright vacuum, the Prolux 6000 is a good option for long-term performance.  

Oreck Commercial XL Upright Vacuum 

Uprights are always popular for their agility and ease of use. This Oreck model is on virtually everyone’s list of top commercial vacuum cleaners. 

Weight 

At 9 pounds, this Oreck vacuum is very lightweight. Fortunately, it sacrifices nothing in suction power. 

Features 

Users love how easy it is to navigate around furniture with this vacuum. Height adjustment is automatic when moving from floors to carpeting. Plus, the cord is 35 feet long, which makes it even easier to use. 

It uses a bag but offers a large capacity for collecting dust and dirt. 

Some extras: 

• Ultra-fast roller brush 

• Side brushes 

• Non-marring bumpers 

• Handle that eliminates strain 

Price 

This Oreck model retails between $170 and $220, depending on when and where you buy it. 

The Oreck Commercial XL Upright is ideal for cleaning homes, hotel rooms, retail outlets, and crowded office spaces. 

Bissell Commercial ProCup Upright Vacuum 

This durable yet lightweight Bissell is another model often chosen by professional cleaners. 

Weight 

This model comes in at just over 11 pounds. 

Features 

Rather than using a bag that must be replaced, this vacuum collects dirt in a dustbin that holds four quarts of debris. The dustbin can be washed as needed. And as a huge bonus, it has a 30-foot cord that can be replaced without rewiring. 

Height adjustment for the Bissell Commercial ProCup Upright Vacuum is manual and has five settings. 

Unlike the Oreck above, this vacuum provides attachments: 

• Crevice tool 

• Dusting brush 

• Extension wand 

Price 

This Bissell is affordable at under $200. 

Bissell BigGreen Commercial Stick Vacuum 

If your commercial cleaning duties don’t involve a ton of vacuuming, the Bissell BigGreen Stick Vacuum might be right for you. 

Weight 

Excellent for small, quick jobs, this vac weighs only 5 pounds. 

Features 

It’s a cordless 2-in-1 device that gives you both a stick vac and a handheld. 

A 22.2-volt removable lithium battery provides the Bissell BigGreen 45 minutes of cleaning on a full charge. There’s also no bag to empty—the handheld vac functions as a receptacle. 

Users get two-speed options with LED light indicators. Remove the handheld when you want to pick up a spill quickly or give furniture a once-over. 

Price 

Typically found for under $250, it won’t break the bank. 

This model isn’t powerful or long-lasting enough for a day of vacuuming. However, it’s ideal for supplementing other services or even cleaning your own business vehicle. 

Hoover Commercial PortaPOWER Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner 

Looking for a lightweight canister vacuum? The Hoover PortaPOWER might be right up your alley. 

Weight 

At only 8.3 pounds, this model can be carried in your hand or used with the included shoulder strap. It does not have wheels, however. 

Features 

Users appreciate the cord, which reaches 35.5 feet and has a bundling strap. Debris can be collected in disposable paper bags or reusable cloth bags. 

What many professional cleaners like most about this model is the variety of attachments, including: 

• Rug and floor nozzle 

• Furniture nozzle 

• Crevice tool 

• Dusting brush 

• Two metal wands 

• Stretch hose 

Price 

You can usually find it for less than $200. 

The versatility of this model makes it perfect for many types of cleaning jobs. 

Hoover Commercial Shoulder Vac Pro Backpack Vacuum 

If you want a portable vacuum but seek an alternative to canister styles, how about a backpack vacuum? This Hoover model is a great option. 

Weight 

With this model, you get the best of both worlds—great suction and a light weight of 9.2 pounds. 

Features 

It’s easy to maneuver. The backpack canister is carried over the shoulders with a chiropractor-designed harness. 

Users also rave about its HEPA filter and extra-long, quick-change cord. This model also excels on hard floors. 

Price 

At over $400, the Hoover Commercial Shoulder Vac Pro Backpack Vacuum is a bit of an investment. 

This Hoover is ideal for use in schools, healthcare settings, and other locations without carpet. 

Vacmaster Professional Beast Series 14-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum 

The Vacmaster Pro can easily handle the messiest—and wettest—jobs. An extra-large capacity tank makes even the biggest jobs a breeze. 

Weight 

The stainless steel construction that makes this vacuum so durable also makes it pretty hefty at 31 pounds. However, the padded push handle and large rear wheels make moving it easy. 

Features 

The 14-gallon capacity holds a lot of wet or dry debris, and the 6.5-peak HP motor ensures great suction. 

The blower function is also terrific for cleaning gutters and outdoor spaces. 

It also includes: 

• 20-foot power cord 

• Onboard hose, cord, and accessory storage 

• Two extension wands 

• Utility nozzle 

• Crevice tool 

• Floor brush and squeegee nozzle 

• Air/noise diffuser 

• Fine dust and foam wet filters 

• Non-marring wheels and locking casters 

Price 

In addition to being super durable and versatile, the Vacmaster Professional Beast is surprisingly affordable. It rings in at just $230. 

If you clean up construction sites or outdoor/wet environments, this may be your solution. 

The Difference Between a Commercial-Grade Vacuum Cleaner and Home Vacuum Cleaner

You might wonder how commercial vacuum cleaners differ from home models. Why not just save money and buy a regular home version, right? 

Not so fast.  

Commercial-grade vacuums are a different product. It’s like comparing a dishwasher you might run every few days in your home kitchen to one for a restaurant. The restaurant dishwasher is going to take a lot more abuse. 

If you run a cleaning business, the difference a commercial vacuum cleaner makes can be substantial.  

Here are a few beneficial qualities to consider: 

Durability

When you operate a vacuum cleaner for your livelihood, you need it to withstand daily wear and tear. That’s why commercial vacuum cleaners are made for heavy-duty use.

Commercial vacuums feature more durable exteriors. They are also built with industrial parts to withstand daily use.

The heavy-duty intention is vital when your income depends on your vacuum working properly. You can’t afford to have your vacuum cleaner conk out in the middle of a job. That could cost you a client or earn you a bad online review.

Capacity

Commercial vacuums hold more debris, so you don’t have to empty them as often. They also have a much larger interface with the floor. 

More contact allows professional cleaners to cover larger areas with fewer passes, allowing you to fit more appointments into every day. 

Design

Commercial-grade vacuum cleaners are designed with pros in mind. 

The cords are longer for larger rooms. And since you’ll spend less time unplugging and re-plugging your vacuum, you’ll gain extra efficiency here, too. 

The handles are more ergonomic, and some are designed as backpacks. That’s important if you’re holding a vacuum for hours at a time. You don’t want you or your employees to be unable to work because of repetitive use injuries. 

You can read about more features in detail below. But rest assured that commercial vacuums are constructed for maximum use, comfort, and convenience. 

What to Look for in a Commercial Vacuum Cleaner

Now you know a little more about commercial vacuum cleaners. Ready to purchase one? Here’s what to think about when you’re shopping:

Portability and Maneuverability

When purchasing a commercial vacuum, you need to know who will use it and where. That answer determines other factors, like size and weight. 

Maybe a small person will use the vacuum, or you must climb many stairs. You probably want something that’s not too heavy. And maneuverability is key if you need to go around a lot of furniture. 

Other features, like angle adjustment and handle controls, are also important. What makes sense for your business when you walk through a typical workday? 

Vacuum Style

Commercial-level vacuums come in various styles. Which one is best suited to your cleaning needs? Let’s review the most common options: 

Upright: This is a more heavy-duty version of the classic home vacuum. It’s fairly self-contained and fits easily in a closet or vehicle. 

Stick: A subcategory of uprights, this vacuum is slim and lightweight. Stick vacuums are cordless and must be charged between uses, which has pros and cons. But they’re ideal for tight spaces and limiting weight. 

Canister: Similar to a shop vacuum, this style of vacuum has a canister on wheels with a long hose that provides suction. 

Backpack: This type of vacuum is like a canister vac, but you wear the collection receptacle on your back for ultra-portability. If you ever have to climb a ladder to clean, it might be for you. 

Wet/dry: These vacuums can handle both wet and dry material. This type overlaps with other vacuum styles, like canister vacuums. 

Floor sweepers: Picture quasi-vacuums similar to lawnmowers for picking up dirt and crumbs. They come in push and self-propelled versions. 

Handheld: Sometimes called “dust busters,” these are tiny vacuums for small spills. They are also popular for cleaning drapes, upholstery, and high spaces. 

Depending on your business, you might find that owning several styles of commercial vacuum cleaners is best. 

For example, an upright is great for homes and small offices. But a floor sweeper is what you need to cover a hotel ballroom or apartment lobby. 

A wet/dry vac might be perfect for indoor and outdoor use. This is a popular option when combined with a backpack style for cleaning gutters. 

Intended Uses and Surfaces

Of course, how you intend to use your commercial vacuum cleaner will also be a factor in choosing the right model.  

Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you start shopping: 

• Will I be vacuuming both hard floors and carpets? If so, do I need to think about varying carpet heights?
• Do I vacuum drapery, upholstery, or ceilings and moldings?
• What kind of attachments and what length hose will I need?
• What volume capacity do I need for dirt and debris collection?
• What about outside surfaces?
• Do I need a vacuum that can handle wet material?
• What is my biggest challenge when vacuuming at present?

Suction Power

Not having enough suction power in a vacuum can mean missing dirty spots. You may also have to make extra passes when vacuuming. This reduces the quality and efficiency of your work. 

Look for a vacuum that offers powerful suction even when working on deep pile carpets and corners or crevices. 

Suction usually falls between 250 and 450 watts. Look for something on the upper end of that spectrum. If shopping in person, ask for a demo to see the machine’s suction in action. 

Think about the type of debris you most often pick up. For instance, if you clean a motel by the beach, you want something that can handle sand. Restaurant debris is chunkier, like bits of food. Make sure your chosen vacuum can get it all. 

Type and Level of Filtration

Today’s commercial vacuums typically have a variety of filtration methods. Some even have multiple filtration systems for extra protection. 

Many professional cleaners opt for a HEPA (high-efficiency particulate absorbing/arresting) filter. This helps catch smaller particles rather than move them around in the air. HEPA filters are also ideal for reducing allergies and asthma. 

Noise Volume

A noisy vacuum is an issue for both operators and customers. Ideally, you don’t want to wear earplugs when vacuuming. And you don’t want clients complaining about the noise you make when cleaning. 

Try to balance efficiency with noise. If you work in an office building after hours, it’s probably not a big deal. But if you clean hotels or apartments, look for quieter models that still provide superior suction. 

Extras

Commercial vacuums have many features that might make one model more or less attractive to you. As you research your options, think about which features would be helpful for your business and which ones you could do without.  

Here are some examples of features a commercial vacuum might include: 

• Extra long cords with holders/retractors
• Cordless power
• Power usage and outlet requirements
• Extra long or telescoping hoses
• Special attachments
• Washable filters
• Easy-open or bagless canisters
• UV (ultraviolet) cleaning for germs
• Built-in magnet for metal items

Price

Extra vacuum features may come with a price, but you might make up for it with a few cleaning jobs. The added efficiency of the right commercial vacuum cleaner pays for itself quickly. 

Some tips for getting the best price: 

• Shop online and in person.
• Wait for vacuum sales.
• Consider last year’s models.
• Buy multiple vacs at once.

Durability and Warranty

A good commercial vacuum should last you at least five years. You may get 10 or more years from the best models. When shopping for a commercial vacuum, read reviews carefully regarding durability. 

Think about users. Will it just be you? A small team? Or multiple cleaners, many of whom might be rough on your equipment? 

Additionally, having a solid warranty is critical. Understand what’s covered and what’s not in case you need repairs or a replacement.