The Ultimate Guide to Broom Vacuums: Functionality and Performance Unveiled

Broom vacuums, also known as stick vacuums, are a popular type of vacuum cleaner known for their lightweight and versatile design.

This comprehensive guide will explore everything you need to know about broom vacuums including how they work, key features, factors to consider when purchasing, and how they compare to other vacuum types.

What are Broom Vacuums?

Broom vacuums are a type of vacuum cleaner with a long handle and jointed stick-like design that allows them to lie flat on the floor. This enables access to hard-to-reach areas under furniture and their lightweight, cordless design provides excellent maneuverability for cleaning.

Broom vacuums are powered by an electric motor that creates suction to pull in dirt and debris. The debris is collected in either a bag or a removable dust cup. Without bulky motors or cords, broom vacuums weigh under 5 pounds on average, making them easy to carry and store.

Broom vacuums are known by several other names, including stick vacuums, cordless vacuums, handheld vacuums, and lightweight vacuums. However, broom vacuum is the most common term used to describe their signature stick design.

How Do Broom Vacuums Work?

Broom vacuums operate very similarly to conventional vacuum cleaners but in a more portable, compact design. Here’s an overview of how the main components work together to provide strong cleaning performance:

Suction Motor

The suction motor is the power unit of a broom vacuum. Electric motors ranging from about 100-150 watts generate the airflow and suction required to lift and collect debris. More powerful motors produce higher suction for deeper cleaning.

Batteries

Cordless broom vacuums operate on rechargeable lithium-ion battery packs. Run times range from 15 minutes up to over an hour per charge depending on the battery capacity. Removable batteries can be swapped out for continuous cleaning. Batteries take 2-4 hours to fully recharge depending on capacity.

Dust Cup

The dust cup or bin collects all debris picked up by the broom vacuum. Dust cups range in capacity from 0.3 liters up to 0.7 liters or more. Larger dust cups need less frequent emptying. Many broom vacuums have easy, mess-free dust cup emptying mechanisms.

Filters

Filters are vital for retaining dust and allergens while allowing filtered air to pass through. Most broom vacuums have multi-level filtration with a preliminary filter to separate large particles, followed by a HEPA filter to trap small particles. HEPA filters capture 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns in size.

Brushrolls

The motorized brush roll loosens and lifts debris from floors. Softer bristles help clean bare floors while stiffer bristles deep clean carpets. Brushrolls can be turned off to safely clean hard floors.

Attachments

Attachments like crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery tools help broom vacuums clean more areas. Some have LED lights to see into dark corners. Flexible hoses provide extended reach.

Key Features and Benefits

Broom vacuums provide excellent functionality, convenience, and versatility for whole-home cleaning. Here are some of their top features and advantages:

Cordless Convenience

The cordless operation allows broom vacuums to move freely anywhere without cords getting in the way or having to stop and unplug. This makes cleaning large areas fast and uncomplicated.

Extreme Lightweight Design

Weighing under 5 pounds, broom vacuums are highly portable and easy to maneuver compared to bulky upright vacuums. Even children can comfortably carry and use them. Their compact size takes up little storage space.

Powerful Suction

Advanced broom vacuums generate up to 150 watts of suction power equaling air speeds over 55 miles per hour to lift and remove dust and debris. Power modes can be adjusted as needed.

Versatility to Clean Any Surface

Broom vacuums excel at cleaning bare floors, carpets, furniture, ceilings, drapes, counters, and more. Brushrolls loosen embedded dirt while suction removes it.

Removable/Swappable Batteries

Higher-end broom vacuums have removable batteries that can be easily swapped out for continuous cleaning. Spare battery packs allow you to clean longer without having to stop and recharge.

Large-capacity Dust Bins

Dust bins up to 0.7 liters or more in capacity allow you to clean larger areas without having to frequently stop and empty them. Larger dust bins are very convenient.

Advanced Filtration Systems

HEPA filtration is common in newer broom vacuums to remove 99.97% of fine particles and allergens from vacuumed air. This helps improve indoor air quality.

Handheld Capabilities

Broom vacuums easily convert to handheld mode. This allows you to use them to clean furniture, ceilings, shelves, curtains and more.

Versatile Cleaning Attachments

From crevice tools to pet hair attachments, broom vacuums come with useful accessories that allow you to clean more areas and surfaces throughout your home.

Easy Maintenance

With no belts or bulky parts to maintain, broom vacuums are easy to keep clean. Their filters and dust bins are quick to access and wash when needed.

Choosing the Right Broom Vacuum

With a wide range of models available, it’s important to consider your cleaning needs and priorities when selecting a broom vacuum. Key factors to evaluate include:

Suction Power

Look for motors with at least 100 air watts of power but ideally 150 watts or higher. This ensures strong enough airflow and suction to thoroughly clean carpets and lift debris.

Battery Life

Longer battery life directly translates into more cleaning time. Look for lithium-ion batteries that provide up to 40 minutes or more of continuous cleaning per charge. Quick charging times are also beneficial.

Dust Bin Capacity

Larger dust bins up to around 0.7 liters mean fewer stops to empty. Look for easy, mess-free emptying systems. Removable dust bins are convenient.

Filtration System

Advanced filtration improves air quality by capturing dust and allergens. HEPA filtration is ideal for removing tiny particles. Look for multi-level filtration.

Weight

Lighter broom vacuums are easier to use without tiring your arms. Look for models less than 5 pounds for optimal maneuverability and portability.

Attachments

Versatile attachments like crevice tools, brushes and pet hair removers allow you to clean more surfaces. Removable hand vacuums help clean furniture and cars.

Warranty

Look for at least a 2 to 5-year warranty. This ensures the vacuum is built to last. Carefully check what parts are covered.

Brand Reputation

Stick with reputable vacuum brands known for quality and performance like Dyson, Shark, Bissell, Hoover and others. Read consumer reviews as well.

Ease of Use

Look for intuitive controls and easy maneuverability. Handheld modes, swivel steering, LED headlights and lift-away components add convenience.

Cost

Broom vacuums range from about $50 for basic models up to $500 or more for high-end options with more power and features. Set a budget and look for sales.

Broom Vacuum vs. Upright Vacuum

Upright vacuums have been a mainstay for decades, so how do broom vacuums compare? Here’s an overview of their differences:

Size and Maneuverability

Uprights are bulky, making it difficult to move between rooms and requiring large storage space. Broom vacuums are compact, very lightweight and highly maneuverable.

Suction Power

Traditional uprights often have stronger suction from larger motors and air channels optimized for floor cleaning. Broom vacuums compensate with concentrated power from smaller, efficient motors.

Cordless Freedom

Broom vacuums provide cordless portability to clean anywhere without outlets or cords getting in the way. Uprights must be repeatedly plugged and unplugged to move far.

Capacity

Uprights have very large-capacity bags and bins for longer cleaning sessions. Broom vacuums have much smaller capacities requiring more frequent emptying.

Filtration

Both usually provide multiple filters culminating in HEPA filtration for excellent particle removal. Some uprights have full-bag sensors.

Attachments

Broom vacuums come with versatile attachments for cleaning more surfaces. Uprights typically only include basic floor attachments.

Durability

Uprights are made of metal for extreme durability over decades. Broom vacuums have plastic bodies with shorter lifespans around 5 years or less.

Cleaning Surfaces

Broom vacuums excel at above-floor cleaning like furniture and ceilings. Uprights focuses solely on floor cleaning and lacks versatility.

Price

Uprights range from $150 on the low end up to $500 or more. Broom vacuums usually cost less, with prices spanning $50 to $400.

For quick, versatile whole-home cleaning, broom vacuums are an excellent choice. But for large homes primarily needing heavy-duty floor cleaning, uprights are tougher to beat.

Types of Broom Vacuums

There are several specialized types of broom vacuums to suit different cleaning needs:

Pet Broom Vacuums

Perfect for homes with pets, these feature mini turbo brushes, upholstery tools, and filters to remove pet hair and dander. Higher suction and larger dust bins tackle pet messes.

Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuums

Wet/dry versions allow you to vacuum up spills and liquids. Their washable filters and stainless steel wands handle wet messes.

Handheld Broom Vacuums

Compact handhelds provide extreme portability for cleaning furniture, cars, cobwebs and more. However, continuous use can be tiring.

Car Broom Vacuums

Designed for cleaning vehicles, car broom vacuums have detail brushes, crevice tools, and attachments for upholstery and vents. Cords are lengthy.

Commercial Broom Vacuums

Commercial broom vacs have higher power and durability for intense cleaning jobs. Large dust bins and filters maximize runtime.

Battery-powered Smart Broom Vacuums

Smart technology adds WiFi connectivity for controlling and monitoring cleaning from your smartphone. Automatic dirt detection adjusts power.

Best Broom Vacuum Brands

Popular vacuum brands provide high-performing and durable broom vacuum options. Here are some top brands to consider:

  • VacBroom Vacuum: The fusion of broom convenience and vacuum power, designed for the modern home enthusiast.
  • Dyson: The pioneering cordless vacuum brand, Dyson sticks features patented cyclone technology for constant powerful suction. Higher-end Dyson brooms have up to 60 minutes of fade-free power.
  • Shark: Known for affordable and innovative floor care products, Shark’s broom vac line includes anti-allergen complete seal technology and self-cleaning brush rolls.
  • Bissell: Offering a wide range of floor care products, Bissell stick vacuums feature multi-level filtration, lightweight designs and attachments for cleaning diverse surfaces.
  • Hoover: Providing good performance at reasonable prices, Hoover broom vacuums include OnePwr models with removable batteries and floor-to-ceiling versatility.
  • Eufy: Anker’s vacuum brand, Eufy stick vacs emphasizes simple operation, lengthy battery life up to an hour, and several models at under $200.
  • Tineco: Tineco specializes in smart technology vacuums with digital motors and advanced sensors. The PWRHERO broom vac detects hidden dirt and automatically increases suction.

Caring for Your Broom Vacuum

With minimal maintenance, your broom vacuum will provide many years of reliable service. Here are some tips for proper care and upkeep:

  • Frequently empty the dust bin before it becomes overloaded.
  • Wash filters monthly by rinsing under water until water runs clear. Allow you to fully air dry.
  • Use new filters after 3-6 months for peak filtration. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Keep brush rolls tangle-free by carefully cutting away wrapped hair, strings, etc.
  • Only use manufacturer-recommended replacement batteries to avoid damage.
  • Wipe down the broom, wand, and attachments with a dry cloth to remove dust buildup.
  • Avoid cheap off-brand replacement filters that allow more dust through.
  • Store upright and allow lithium-ion batteries to fully drain once a month for a long life.
  • Check for blockages and clear debris from air channels as needed.

Following these tips will increase the cleaning performance and lifespan of your broom vacuum.

Final Thoughts

Broom vacuums provide a lightweight, versatile cleaning solution perfect for hard floors, carpets, and above-floor surfaces in your home. Models from leading brands offer high-power suction, extended battery life, large dust bins, advanced filtration and useful attachments.

Look for key features like fade-free lithium-ion batteries, HEPA filtration, lightweight design under 5 pounds, and the capability to clean all surfaces throughout your home. Compare upright vacuums versus broom vacuums to decide which design best fits your cleaning style and needs.

This comprehensive guide provides the information you need to select an exceptional broom vacuum that will make whole-home cleaning easier.

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