The EU Standards ratings label also provides a wealth of information, including an overall efficiency and energy rating. This can range from A to G, and we recommend looking for a vacuum that falls within the A to C range. You also get information on energy usage (measured in kWh per year) and noise level (measured in decibels).

Also included is Pick Up Ratings for both Carpets and Hard Floors – which usually raises the question of ‘what on earth does carpet pick up rating C mean?’ This is a measurement of how effectively the vacuum cleaner will remove dirt and debris from the different flooring types, as determined by laboratory testing. Finally, you also get a Filtration rating (again between A to G), which indicates how well the vacuum retains the fine dust it picks up without blowing it out again.

What type of surfaces will you be cleaning the most?

If you have mostly carpets, you'll want a vacuum cleaner with strong suction power and specialised attachments for deep cleaning. If you have hardwood or tiled floors, you might prioritise a vacuum with specific cleaning heads, nozzles or settings for these surfaces. Perhaps a model that splits down into a handheld vacuum for when you hoover the stairs?

Small children are an endless source of delight and joy, as well as crumbs and mess! A good crevice nozzle is essential for getting crumbs out of the deepest recesses of your sofa and their car seat, while an upholstery nozzle can be highly effective on fabrics such as furniture and bedding. You may also want to consider a wet/dry vacuum that will make easy work of picking up any spilt liquids, as well as the usual dry dirt.

What is the size of your living space?

For larger spaces, you might want powerful performance so you can get the job done quicker and a larger dustbin capacity so you don’t have to stop too often for emptying. For smaller spaces, a compact, lightweight and possibly cordless vacuum might be more practical. If you’ve got something very specific in mind to suit the features of your home, such as the best suction hoover or the best handheld vacuum for stairs, then you can focus your search around those features to make the vast range of choice in the vacuum cleaner market more manageable.

Do you have pets or allergies?

If you have pets, you'll want a vacuum cleaner with specialised pet hair attachments and brush rolls designed to effectively remove pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Some models also use odour-neutralising cartridges to keep your carpets smelling fresh. If you suffer from allergies, a vacuum with HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration can help improve indoor air quality by trapping allergens, dust and pet dander right down to 0.3 microns in size.

Upright Vacuum Cleaner

Upright vacuum cleaners are popular for their powerful suction and large dust capacity. They are well-suited for deep cleaning carpets and offer convenient push-and-pull manoeuvrability that’s also kind on your back. An upright model is usually your best bet for looking after four-legged friends, with pet models available many including accessories for dealing with stubborn pet hair.

Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Cordless vacuums offer the convenience of portability while removing the need to worry about plugging in as you move about. Ideal for quick clean-ups – make sure you consider the battery life and charging time when picking your model. Stick cordless vacuum cleaners are particularly light and easy to manoeuvre, ensuring you can easily clean round furniture. A charging dock that also provides storage can be a handy space-saver.

Canister Vacuum Cleaner

The canister refers to the dustbin, which is removed for easy emptying. Canister vacuum cleaners are versatile and often come with a range of attachments for different cleaning tasks. They are particularly effective for above-floor cleaning and reaching under furniture. Look for models with adjustable suction power and HEPA filtration for allergy sufferers.

Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

If your primary concern is finding a compact and portable vacuum, then a cordless handheld model is perfect for spot cleaning and reaching tight spaces. They are great for cleaning upholstery, car interiors, and stairs. Look for models with strong suction and attachments for versatile use. Some full size vacuum cleaners and be switched to handheld mode, offering maximum versatility.

Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Perhaps the time has come to outsource the job? Robot vacuum cleaners can be programmed to automatically do the cleaning on a schedule, which is perfect for those who are out at work all day and want to come back to fresh, clean floors. Advanced features such as edge detection and multi-surface capability ensure all areas of your home are clean and dust-free. A robot vacuum automatically returns to its dock for recharging and many also empty the dust and debris they’ve collected into a larger stationary bin that only needs you to clean it out every few weeks. Some robot vacuums even have a mop function for hard floors!