Read our full review of the Shark Stratos IZ862H, which we wrote in the UK. The only difference between these models is that in the US it comes with different tools. For up to six months with regular monthly check-ins, each tester was required to document and capture the performance of the vacuum in their home. We evaluated our findings across multiple categories, including effectiveness, maneuverability, ease of emptying, portability, shark dustbuster noise level, ease of setup, and overall value. A bag will eliminate the risk of spilling the contents you’ve collected, but they need to be regularly replaced (monthly for most) to keep the vacuum functioning properly. The replacement bags are often specific to the manufacturer and model you select so finding the correct replacement can be burdensome and it also adds to the overall cost of maintenance and is an ongoing need.
We ran this test at least two times for each vacuum to ensure that our results were consistent, on medium-pile and high-pile carpeting. The vacuum comes with several attachments to clean both floors and furniture, and it’s pretty easy to switch between the different add-ons. Good to know
It can take several cycles for the robot to “map” your home, according to many reviewers, though it only took two run-throughs for us to get a relatively accurate reading. Even if you don’t use the no-go strips, you can add boundaries in the app for future cycles, it avoids that area. Due to the mapping technology, if you move the base, the robot vacuum will have to recreate the map of your space from scratch.
Our tests showed the ZU62 was good at cleaning up tight against edges/walls, that it had good pickup on our tile flooring, and that it was good at tackling small-to-medium sized debris on carpet. We should point out that it did struggle a bit on larger debris (like fruit loops) on our low pile carpet. We also performed a noise level test and were pleasantly surprised that the vacuum was not too loud. We wouldn’t classify it as quiet but many other Shark uprights were louder. Some Shark vacuums are equipped with a detachable canister that adds “lift-away” functionality to the machine.
It works as a stick vacuum, but she wouldn’t recommend it as a main vacuum cleaner for busy homes or homes with pets. She didn’t notice a huge difference between the normal and boost modes but the easy storage element made this vacuum a real winner. It comes with a stand where the stick frame lives, which can be placed in a corner or closet.
In most cases, we buy all these products ourselves, though occasionally, we get samples provided to us directly by companies. No matter how we procure products, they all go through the same tests and must meet the same strict criteria to make the best-of cut. With the additional light, it’s easier to see where you need to focus your vacuum shark dustbuster efforts and feel confident that you captured every last speck of dirt. This model from shark includes plenty of bells and whistles to justify its price tag. We also have another guide to help you figure out which type of vacuum is the best fit for your home. The lift-away feature transforms a Shark upright into a canister with no wheels.
Just don’t expect it to be as light or nimble as a stick vacuum, but know you’ll be pleased with its maneuverability and effectiveness. This model impressed us during testing with how easy it was to push across hardwood floors and carpets of all pile heights. We only docked it for its bulkier design, which made it difficult to reach under lower furniture. In terms of effectiveness, it captured all the hair and debris in our testing area in fewer than five passes. This ensures sufficient power to continually turn the brushroll at speed and deep clean into carpets, digging out all manner of dust, debris, and yes, pet hair. Some less expensive vacuums, especially canister vacuums, may have a brushroll driven by suction.
And the internal bin where the contents of dust and pet hair are collected must be handled with care to prevent unintentional spilling. The Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro+ Handheld Vacuum excelled in all of our lab tests, but it really stood out when it came to sucking up pet hair. If you constantly find yourself reaching for a vacuum to zap pet hair off of your couches or rugs, this is the vacuum for you. In addition to brush and crevice tools, this handheld vacuum comes with a pet power brush tool that’s specifically designed to loosen and suck up pet hair.
With powerful suction and a self-cleaning brush roll, it whisks away dust, debris and even pet hair and keeps them out of the air with its HEPA filter. This smart vac can clean for up to two hours on a single charge, then it self-empties into its docking station once the job is complete. If your house is large and it needs more time, the vac will go back to the dock for a battery top-up before picking up where it left off. We found this Moosoo vacuum to be equally effective on hardwood floors and carpets, and were surprised when vacuuming stairs that we didn’t even have to use the attachments (the suction got all the debris). The vacuum grabbed all the pet hair without issue, and considering how small it is, we were really impressed.