Yes, You Actually Do Need a Good Vacuum — Here's Why

Robot vacs have been around for two decades, but the new generation is smarter than ever. Take this Neato D8 Intelligent Robot Vacuum Wi-Fi Connected with LiDAR Navigation ($350), for example. It uses laser technology to scan your space, which helps the vacuum navigate your home precisely. Like a Tesla, it receives software updates wirelessly; and with the MyNeato app, you can decide exactly where it does (and doesn't) go. Clever indeed.

Robots don't just vacuum these days; they mop, too. Currently on sale, this Bissell SpinWave Plus 2-in-1 Robotic Mop and Vac ($330) does both tasks efficiently. (And yes, it's smart enough to tell the difference between soft and hard surfaces — so your carpet will most definitely not be mopped.)

If your pet is prone to making messes, a regular vacuum may not be enough. Bolster your cleaning tools by adding a pet-specific solution such as this Bissell Pet Stain Eraser PowerBrush Deluxe ($120, originally $134). Its rotating brush (along with a special wet cleaning solution) make dirt and accidents disappear from carpets and rugs almost instantly. It's cordless, too, so you can grab it and go.

This Shark VacMop Pro Cordless Hard Floor Vacuum Mop ($80, originally $100) is a combination stick vacuum and mop that easily goes upstairs, downstairs, on stairs — and anywhere else that messes multiply. Its pads help suck up debris while simultaneously absorbing liquid — so if you or someone you love is prone to spilling cereal, consider this an essential device.

It's not always convenient to haul out a full-size vacuum for small messes. That's where a handheld model like Shark WandVac Cord-Free Handheld Vacuum ($130) comes into play. Use it for quick pickups, car cleaning, and any other time you need high-performance suction in a portable package.

If you want to buy a vacuum that will last forever, look to this Miele Compact C1 Pure Suction Vacuum ($399). (Miele is famous for its reliability and efficacy, which is why some Miele owners, including this writer, are fiercely loyal.) Ideal for hard surfaces and low-pile carpet, this lightweight model also has settings for vacuuming curtains, upholstery, and rugs — so you can suck up dust and grime everywhere for the years to come.

A vacuum meant to stay in one place? Well, now you've seen everything! This Eye-Vac Home Stationary Touchless Vacuum ($117) is equipped with infrared sensors to detect when you're about to sweep crumbs, dirt, and other messes into its path. Then — whoosh! — it gobbles them up, stores them in its canister, and clears the air with its HEPA filter. Your dustpan will soon be very lonely.

If dust and dander trigger your allergies, look for a vacuum with a built-in HEPA filter, which clears 99.97 percent of dust particles for cleaner surfaces and air. This Hoover WindTunnel 3 High Performance Pet Upright Vacuum ($250) has that and more; it's a serious machine with very powerful suction and useful tools (such as a pivoting dusting tool to help you clean ceiling fan blades). It's the ideal choice for anyone who's been underwhelmed by their current vacuum or who needs to get rid of every last speck of dirt.

Is a Dyson vacuum a status symbol? Well, sure. But it's also an undeniably effective, efficient cleaning machine that lives up to the hype. The Dyson Ball Multifloor 2 Upright Vacuum ($400) is ideal for hardwood floors, tile, and low-pile carpeting; it turns on a time, has powerful suction, and has useful tools that extend to reach awkward spots. Plus, it's so satisfying to look into its canister and see all of the dirt and dust it sucks up.

Surprisingly powerful for a compact machine, this Eufy HomeVac S11 Reach Cordless Stick Vacuum ($250) is useful for quick sessions. Since it's battery-powered, you don't have to be limited by cords; it also converts to a handheld vac, eliminating the need for a separate device.