Best vacuums for vinyl plank floors

Let me guess. Your home has vinyl plank flooring. And you are concerned that they stay in perfect condition for as long as possible. Therefore, you will need the best vacuum for vinyl plank floors. In this review, we will help you make the right choice.

In fact, manufacturers do not produce vacuum cleaners specifically for vinyl flooring. But according to certain characteristics, you can choose the most suitable model. As you have already seen, our pick is the Shark AZ2002 Vertex. This vacuum cleaner contains floor-safe and efficient brushrolls, Powered Lift-Away, Active Glide, and other innovative technologies. It is also durable and equipped with a HEPA filter to ensure that the environment is free of allergens. However, before choosing a vacuum cleaner, you need to consider other models as they all have their own benefits.

Best vacuum cleaners for vinyl plank floors in 2022

1. Shark AZ2002 Vertex – Best overall

Shark AZ2002 Vertex is one of the latest models of upright vacuum cleaners today, which combines a number of innovative technologies of this brand.

The design of the vacuum cleaner is based on the Powered Lift-Away technology, which allows you to detach the canister. This turns this model into a stick vacuum cleaner and allows it to reach hard-to-reach places, such as under furniture or above the floor. I’m sure other bulky upright vacuums would like to have similar technology.

One of the main advantages of this model, which makes it suitable for luxury vinyl plank floors, is the brushroll with rubber PowerFins. Shark began to include such brushrolls in their latest models and as practice shows, it captures debris more efficiently than standard bristled brushes. Another benefit of rubber PowerFins is that they won’t scratch hardwood as well as vinyl plank floors.

The second brushroll has soft bristles, which are also safe on delicate floors, giving the floor a polished look. Thus, the Dual brushroll system allows almost 100% of the debris to be lifted in one pass even on the dirtiest floors.

Another important component of this vacuum cleaner’s brushroll system is Self-Cleaning Technology. If you have long hair that tends to fall out, or you are a pet owner, then you will definitely appreciate it.

Shark AZ2002 Vertex is equipped with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal filtration with a true HEPA filter. This filter system is one of the highest quality among vacuum cleaners today. Similar filtration is used in Miele vacuums.

Shark AZ2002 Vertex is a powerful vacuum cleaner. This is good news, of course, but keep in mind that you may have difficulty cleaning lightweight rugs and mats as this model does not have adjustable power. In view of the strong power of the Shark AZ2002, the manufacturer has added Active Glide Technology to this model, which significantly reduces the necessary efforts to push the vacuum cleaner.

We consider the Shark AZ2002 Vertex to be the best vacuum for vinyl plank floors, but it’s also great for carpets, rugs, and other hard floor types.

2. Dyson V11 Torque Drive – Best stick vacuum for vinyl plank floors

Dyson V11 Torque Drive is the best cordless vacuum for vinyl floors. It weighs just under seven pounds. The Dynamic Load Sensor adjusts the pressure according to the resistance for the most efficient cleaning.

Dyson V11 includes five extra cleaning tools that can be replaced with the torque head.

This vacuum cleaner can last up to an hour and the cleaner head is composed of nylon bristles and anti-static carbon fiber threads that are useful in disposing of dirt from rugs and dust from small spaces.

The Dyson V11 Torque Drive also has an LCD screen at the top of its shaft which enables the user to shift between the different modes available. It also informs you of the current battery life of the device, spot any debris, and demonstrate how to get rid of it, as well as reminds you to clean the filter. This vacuum also notices the varying floor surfaces and adjusts the intake strength to whatever is appropriate.

The Dyson V11 is easy to operate as it is light, making it convenient and portable, therefore, enhancing the cleaning results. It will also cause less damage to vinyl flooring as stick vacuums are much smaller and require less pressure when cleaning.

3. Miele Blizzard CX1 Turbo Team

The Miele Blizzard CX1 Turbo Team is a powerful, yet silent vacuum cleaner that incorporates Vortex Technology, and lifetime HEPA filter, and a ComfortClean system.

The powerful Vortex Technology in the vacuum will assist in producing an impressive airflow, as well as break apart rough dirt and light dust into their own containers with the help of its monocyclic technology.

The container can be conveniently emptied through a push of a button, and its dust separation makes the emptying process hygienic.

Its floorhead is made airtight and aerodynamic giving it the ability to successfully gather soot.

The Miele CX1’s major container also has a lifelong pre-filter in a detachable mount that can be washed, dried, and then reused. The vacuum also includes DynamicDrive that will allow your vinyl floors to remain scratch-free, while still providing balance.

The greatest surprise about the Miele Blizzard CX1 Turbo Team is its capability to produce low sounds, while still possessing a strong suction.

It is suitable for pet fur and has created an innovative method in order to minimize exposure to dust when cleaning the container. It also contains other considerable attributes such as an auto-rewind power string and attachments that are basic, yet effective.

4. Hoover FH41000 Hard Floor Cleaner

The Hoover FH41000 has proven to eliminate all filth that simply scrubbing does not do. It includes a Dual Tank technology, as well as a Patented SpinScrub technology. This will allow you to hold clear and murky water separately, as well as safely swab your floors from every perspective. It also has revolving brushes that are useful if you are looking for an immense wash.

Because this vacuum cleaner makes use of water – I will answer your question now and say, yes, wet cleaning is safe for vinyl floors, however, it should not be cleaned with water on a daily basis. It uses a liquid solution that cleans your floors and suctions that can engulf the murky water straight away, giving you dry and sparkling floors.

This vacuum cleaner is also much lighter than other upright vacuums, making it the most suitable for vinyl floors. In addition, the containers, brush, and spout of the Hoover FH41000 can be washed and detached effortlessly and is safe to use on every surface.

The greatest thing about the Hoover FH41000 is the fact that it does an exceptional job in making sure that your floors are clean. The containers and brushes of the vacuum do not use up much solution while cleaning and the surfaces instantly dry right after. It is also convenient and requires very minimal physical effort.

5. iRobot Roomba i7+

The iRobot Roomba i7+ is an innovative invention that cleans any mess with the guidance of personal Smart Maps that can be set up via an application on your smartphone. It can clean for around 45 minutes on one charge, and whenever it does run out of battery, it would automatically go back to its charging port. It will resume cleaning right after charging.

Although it may not be the standard vacuum that you may be looking for, a robot vacuum cleaner would still be helpful as an additional household appliance. This Roomba can be used for vinyl plank flooring without any fear of damage due to the rubberized wheels and rubber brush that would not leave any scratches.

The i7+ gives a powerful performance with just one word that enables it to clean messes for you at any time. It is also very smart as it is issued with modern equipment giving it the ability to memorize your schedule, therefore, making the cleaning automatic.

This Roomba also has a high-efficiency filter that captures 99% of cat & dog allergens and the bin attached to the vacuum has also been upgraded, making the emptying process more unchallenging. Automatic emptying can also be done through an advanced vacuum port.

With the Roomba i7+, cleaning can be done at any time with no efforts wasted. The use of an application makes it easier to control and also gives alerts whenever the disposal bag needs to be replaced or if it is running low on battery. It would really make a busy person’s life much easier as it can be managed through a smartphone whilst providing convenience, comfort, as well as cleanliness.

Features to consider when choosing a vacuum cleaner for vinyl plank floors

Vinyl flooring is a sort of artificial flooring that is at a lower price point than hardwood flooring. These can be used anywhere in your homes, however, places that are constantly wet such as bathrooms or laundry rooms are much preferred. Vinyl floors are water-resistant and long-lasting – but they do need appropriate attention and recurring preservation as they can be harmed easily when subject to maximum heat or cold.

They are also susceptible to tearing and losing their shine which is why an important law for vinyl plank floors is to be gentle when cleaning so as to steer clear of any scratching or stretching of the floor.

Vinyl floors are very sensitive and can be harmed by simply placing chairs or tables on them. Similarly, the constant back and forth of an unfitting vacuum cleaner could cause damage as well.

Fixing vinyl plank floors can be quite hard as the damaged space is usually not an ideal equal, however, damaged smaller areas may be fixed with a vinyl repair kit determined to match the shade of your flooring. Because it is such a process to repair vinyl flooring, it is much simpler to purchase a high-powered vacuum cleaner that would help make your floors look brand new.

However, choosing the best vinyl flooring vacuum cleaner can be seen as an obstacle in itself due to the large number of vacuum cleaners available in our markets today. And so, to make this easier for you, we have come up with specific characteristics that should be taken into consideration when purchasing a vacuum cleaner for vinyl floors:

Purchase a vacuum cleaner that does not have a beater bar or a power rotary brush head

The vacuum cleaner that you select must be suitable for vinyl plank floors. Vacuum cleaners with a beater bar or a power rotary brush head can become a source of harm to vinyl flooring, which is why we are proposing that the vacuum cleaner you purchase not have these features.

Select a vacuum cleaner that has a powerful, yet steady suction

You must also keep in mind that if you are looking for a vacuum cleaner that does not have a rotating bush, it would be more beneficial to choose one that has a strong suction force so that it can remove any debris, dust, and dirt that may be on the floors.

A suitable filter system

There are many different types of filtration systems available such as washable filters, Advanced Complete Seal filters, etc. However, the top vacuum cleaners come with a HEPA filtration system as these do the best jobs in filtering even the smallest particles. HEPA stands for high-efficiency particulate air. This filtration system works by drawing air through a fine netting, therefore catching dangerous flecks such as allergens. A high-quality filtration system is required, especially for people who are constantly affected by allergies. The filtration system of a vacuum cleaner also determines the power of the suction on the vacuum cleaner as a clogged filter could delay its performance.

A lightweight and portable vacuum cleaner

Having a vacuum cleaner that is light and portable is more appropriate as they are a lot easier to control and they do not require you to put much pressure into cleaning.

A longer power cord (or no cord at all) can also be taken into consideration as this will allow cleaning in more spaces.

Rubberized wheels and brush.

Rubber wheels and rubber brushes are generally better as they would not scratch the flooring, unlike those with stiff bristles. Vacuum wheels and stiff brushes can indeed damage your flooring, which is why rubber wheels and brushes are preferred for they will not scratch or permanently damage your floors in any way.

FAQ

1. Can you use a vacuum on vinyl plank flooring?

Yes. A vacuum cleaner is actually recommended if you have vinyl plank floors as this can help maintain and improve the quality of your floors, as well as guarantees proper cleaning. A vacuum cleaner with a beater bar or a power rotary brush head should be avoided as these can harm vinyl floors. The type of vacuum cleaner also matters; as stick vacuums would be most suitable because these types of vacuum cleaners would not harm or scratch the floor, unlike an upright vacuum that could be too heavy and may cause some harm.

2. Can I use a steam mop on vinyl plank floors?

Steam cleaning has a lot of advantages, however, using a steam mop should be avoided on vinyl plank floors at all costs. The luxury vinyl plank (LVP) floors are assembled durable, and even though the PVC substance is water-resistant – it cannot withstand steam. The significant issue in steam cleaning vinyl floors is that the plastic material would be harmed by the maximum heat produced by a steam mop. This steam could puncture the floor through the indentations and cause harm. Extreme heat and pressure may also drive the planks to curve and twist towards the sides. Therefore, using a steam mop on vinyl plank floors could cause further harm and it would be better to stick with a mop when cleaning your vinyl plank floors.

3. Is wet cleaning suitable for vinyl floors?

It is important to note that vinyl floors are water-resistant, and not waterproof. There is a significant difference between these two whereby ‘water-resistant’­ means it can withstand the effects of water to a certain point, but not fully, while ‘waterproof’ means it is completely unaffected by water. Therefore, wet cleaning should only be done when suitable for vinyl floors. Mopping too often, for example, can diminish the quality of the vinyl and may even weaken the adhesive. Sometimes, tiny drops of water could even force themselves through the edges which could create mold or mildew. This is why wet cleaning should only be done once a week or monthly so as to ensure the quality of your vinyl plank floors.

4. How does one care for vinyl plank floors?

The best way to care for vinyl plank floors is to make sure that they are given the proper amount of care and maintenance. The floors should either be vacuumed or cleaned using a dry mop, and wet cleaned at least once a week, or monthly. The person cleaning must also be very gentle so as to avoid any scratching or harm on the floors.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, there are many vacuum cleaners that would be a suitable choice for vinyl floor planks. Vinyl floors have superiority as they are affordable and water-resistant, as well as comes with a variety of design options. The vinyl floor market is beginning to attract a larger population, and now that there are more options for vacuum cleaners solely focused on vinyl flooring, it would be easier to maintain their quality and luster.

We have provided you with information on the many different types of vacuum cleaners in the market today that would guarantee the quality and shine of your vinyl plank floors. Our top pick for the best vacuum for vinyl plank floors would be the Shark AZ2002 Vertex due to its many benefits such as the powered lift away technology and its overall compatibility with vinyl plank floors. However, any of the vacuum cleaners listed in this article would still serve you well.