A lightweight vacuum cleaner can be the solution if you are tired of pulling the same massive cleaning machine pulling around to get a dust-free house.
A quality lightweight hoover is as powerful as the heavy cleaners but lacks the punch of extra weight – precisely what your old back is looking.
In this post, we are listing the 10 best lightweight vacuum cleaners in the UK, including a brief review about each one of them.
All the models provide excellent value for money, weighs less than 5 Kg, easy to drag for the elderly and are available on Amazon.
What Makes a Vacuum Lightweight?
Before we start, let us talk about the standard of a vacuum cleaner to be lightweight? Any vacuum machine that weighs less than 5 kg is considered a low weight upright vacuum cleaner.
There are even lighter vacuum cleaners that weigh 2 or 3 kg. Upright cleaners from both the weight ranges are comfortable to drag around for seniors.
You may think, is 5 kg is really ‘light’ for a vacuum cleaner?
Yes, it is as there are hoovers available in the market weighing more than 10kgs. Such weight is far from comfortable for the elderly, especially for People Living with Arthritis or those who are already dealing with a bad back.
Best Lightweight Vacuums for Seniors 2024
The vacuum cleaners to be considered below are not just suitable for the elderly but for people with bad backs and people living with arthritis, seems like an all in one package right.
Below are the recommended top 10 lightweight hoovers for the elderly in 2024
1. Gtech AirRam MK2 Cordless Vacuum
Our favourite Gtech AirRam MK2 is right on the top not only because of its low weight of 3.3 kg but also because it is perfectly capable of cleaning carpeted and any other hard floor.
Also, it can run for 40 minutes after a full charge. Low profile design, powerful engine to match corded vacuums and lithium-ion battery add to its value. It lacks any other tools, even a hose as it is only meant to use for floor cleaning.
Comparatively attractive design from the previous versions and modern AirLOC system for better suction are the other considerable features. It also has an improved dust compression system, so that you can clean more without repeatedly emptying its dust canister.
If you are looking for a sturdy upright bagless vacuum, mainly built for floor cleaning, Gtech AirRam Mk2 can be an ideal choice. It lacks the versatility as it does not have a hose, but due to the strong suction power and extended run time, it is one of the most popular batteries operated models.
2. Dyson V7 Motorhead Cordless hoover for the Elderly
Our second favourite is Dyson V7 Motorhead Cordless, which is one of the lightest and powerful vacuums. It is a stick vacuum that can quickly transform into a handheld for cleaning car interiors, sofa and stairs.
V7 Motorhead has a trigger system that only keeps it running while you are cleaning, once you stop even for a second, its engine also stops. This feature conserves power and gives it extended run time. Despite its stylish appearance and powerful suction, it weighs only 2.3 kg.
Apart from its lightweight design, another enticing feature of the cleaner is its direct-drive cleaner head, which is designed to pick all kind of dust particle, even the smallest ones from the floor or carpets. V7 also comes with a crevice tool, combination tool and dock.
Because of its lightweight an easy to use design, the elderly can easily manoeuvre it around the house. The only drawback of V7 is its high price, but the useful features and stylish appearance justifies the cost.
If you want a cordless and lightweight vacuum with more than 30 minutes run time, V7 is one of the great choices, which can prove to be a cleaning all-rounder.
3. Miele Complete C2 Cat & Dog PowerLine
The Miele Compact C2 comes with Turbobrush floorhead, which is primarily designed to pick pet hair, threads and other minute particles from the floor. Apart from pet hair, it also does an excellent job while removing other kinds of dust and dirt.
This lightweight cylinder hoover has a powerful suction ability and weighs 9.28 kg, which may look heavier if compared to other cleaners in this list. However, if we compare the efficiency at difficult cleaning jobs, C2 excels, and that is why it can be considered as one of the best lightweight vacuums in the UK.
This Miele hoover includes a powerful motor and an Active AirClean filter that also removes pet odour from carpets. For efficient cleaning, it has a large ten metres cleaning radius.
If you are looking for a lightweight vacuum that can easily remove all the pet hair and odour from your house, C2 Cat and Dog is a great choice. A function to change the suction power quickly also makes it easy to use, especially on the carpets.
4. Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Stick Vacuum
Power, extended run time and easy bin emptying, Dyson V8 Absolute has all of it. The vacuum cleaner from Dyson comes with all the tools you can imagine, including Soft Roller hard-floor head, a pair of powered brush heads and many other attachments for detailed cleaning. If you are getting everything with V8, then why bother to look for any other option?
The chunky battery pack of V8 has a run time of 40 minutes that seems to be enough to clean the whole house. For that 40-minute runtime, it needs a five-hour full charge. To remove its bin, you have to pull a top clip and central cyclone.
The result – any dust at the basement is immediately ejected in no time without any issues. And yes the tools, you can either attach them directly to the cleaner or use the provided tube.
The rear exhaust filter of the new V8 features a large body and side vents. Exhaust air is also directed in two jets to the left and right, which means it is less likely to blow anything towards your face. Even if it does, it is only fair because of the high-efficiency filtration that can capture particles as small as 0.3 microns.
5. Shark Cordless Lightweight Stick Vacuum[IF200UK]
Shark IF200UK is a lightweight stick vacuum cleaner that can transform into a handheld. It comes with an enticing Flexology Flexi Wand feature that gives a reflexology lock release to lower the wand angle.
With a lowered wand, you can conveniently clean the space under the beds or other challenging to reach places. Due to the same technology, IF200UL folds from the top, so that you can easily store or carry it around.
However, this is not the only features that give UK200UL third position in our list. Another component of the vacuum is a DuoCleaan head that quickly picks up all kind of dust particles, including the smallest ones. The head has a pair of brush rolls – one with very stiff bristles and another with soft ones. It also gives a smooth transition from hard floors to carpet.
You can remove the head for easy ceiling cleaning, but you can also wholly detach the wand and use only the central unit as a handheld. You can use the handheld vacuum to clean car interiors, stairs and many other hard-to-reach areas.
Featuring a 25.2V lithium-ion battery, the vacuum runs for 22 minutes that may not look impressive if you compare with the top two entries. However, as the suction power of this shark vacuum is excellent, it works surprisingly well for those 22 minutes and helps you to clean most of the surface and materials.
6. Shark Corded Stick Hoover [HV390UKT] Lightweight
Excellent cleaning performance is the reason why Shark HV390UKT deserves a position on our list. HV390UKT might look like a cordless vacuum, but it is not, but yes it converts into the handheld mode.
Powered by the 450W motor and a long 10m power cable, it is one of the best vacuums for versatile cleaning. This lightweight vacuum is perfect to shine any surface while you can easily use its handheld vacuums for stairs or car interiors. Flexology” technology is also included with HV390UKT that helps you to bend it to clear space under the bed or other furniture.
Another compelling feature of the vacuum cleaner is the DuoClean technology, which is applied in the pair of brush rolls for the effective cleaning of both small and large dust particles. With a decent suction ability and DuoClean technology, the vacuum is sure to leave a clean surface, we are confident that you will be a big fan of its performance.
None of the vacuums is perfect, and the same goes for HV390UKT. If you want the pet turbo tool, you will have to pay extra as the basic version does not have it. Being a stick vacuum, HV390UKT may also create problems while cleaning the above headwalls. As it lacks the hose, you have to lift the whole unit.
Even after some minor issues, Shark HV390UKT competes and exceeds most of the expensive vacuums in cleaning performance. If you want a lightweight, versatile corded stick vacuum that is effective on all surfaces, it is a great option.
7. Kärcher FC5 Hard Floor Cleaner
Let us talk about the unique vacuum in this list, Kärcher FC5 Hard Floor Cleaner. It comes with a unique roller design that helps you to wash your floors and vacuum up light debris simultaneously. At 5.2 kg, it is also one of the lightest vacuums in the list.
Maybe you think, if it is lightweight, it cannot be powerful enough for all type of cleaning. You might be wrong because this is not the case with FC5. It may be not the strongest of all but still is capable of cleaning most surface, even the toughest ones. Also, it has the tube that can be adjusted as per requirement, which adds to its versatility.
Talking about the disadvantages of this cleaner, it may not be right on carpeted surfaces, so we recommend this product to the users with hard floors. If you are living in a house with laminated flooring, it works for you as well.
Its filter needs cleaning at regular intervals, that may be another work to deal. But yes, as an elderly you may have some time for such small tasks. Even after a few minor negatives, FC5 is a useful lightweight hoover, especially if you are looking for cordless hoover.
8. Vax U90-MA-Re Air Reach Upright hoover
One of the inexpensive upright vacuums, The Vax U90, comes with a powerful motor, long hose and a stylish appearance. Also, it also a low weight to deal with, which is 4.9 kg. The weight may be comparatively high as compared to the other cordless cleaners on this list, but remember it is a corded hoover, so it is supposed to be that heavy.
Similar to other Vax vacuum cleaners, it also comes with multi-cyclonic technology for improved suction power and captures even the smallest of the dust particles. Several attachments including a dusting brush and an upholstery tool, add to its versatility. Long power cable and easy functionality make it convenient to use.
Talking about performance, do not expect it to be the best in terms of suction, but still gives decent cleaning results. If we look at its relatively low weight and price, it surpasses those small flaws and looks like a good buying vacuum. Being easy to drag around, it will also be easy to use for seniors in your house.
If you are looking for an inexpensive vacuum that comes with all the essential features, Vax U90-MA-Re Air Reach can be a good option. Another bonus is its six-year warranty.
While the U90 cannot surpass the expensive vacuums, it still gives decent cleaning performance that is equivalent to its price. Overall, an excellent bagless vacuum cleaner that offers a dust-free house in no time.
9. Morphy Richards 732000
Morphy Richards 73200 is a compact package that gives you maximum cleaning performance whether you use it as an upright or handheld cleaner. At just 4 kg, it also easy to carry around for seniors or individuals dealing with a bad back.
Apart from that, it also has a runtime of 20 minutes, which is excellent for a cleaner with a low price tag.
Even with decent cleaning performance and suction ability, it cannot beat the other Sharks and Dysons on this list, but you cannot expect much at this price. To add another small trouble, you have to be ready to clean the dust canister at regular intervals, as it is comparatively tiny.
Mostly available only in grey, but is stylish and looks compact enough for easy storage. Most of the users praised its performance and cleaning ability, especially for small areas. They were able to clean almost any part of the house.
If you are looking for a versatile and lightweight cordless vacuum, Morphy richards vacuum can be an ideal option. The handheld model gives you the ability to clean tight areas while the regular upright mode works excellent for floor cleaning. We agree that the dust capacity is small, but that is a common trait of cordless vacuums. Overall, a perfect upright cleaner for small clean up tasks.
10. VonHaus 700W Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
Compact yet powerful bagless vacuum cleaner from VonHaus 700W gives you desired cleaning results. The low weight of 4.7 kg and a carrying handle makes it easy to use.
Adjustable speed and power settings, efficient brush and upholstery attachments add to its value and versatility. It also has a flexible telescopic tube for convenient cleaning of stirs and cars.
It can clean any floor by picking the smallest of the particles. A 6-metre long cable of the cleaner allows you to cover more area without changing the power socket frequently.
There is also a crevice tool to clean hard to reach areas. Length of the tube is also capable enough to reach over the head areas without the need of overstretching.
On top of that, it comes with a two year extended warranty. To get the warranty, you have to register the product once it is delivered by Amazon.
Why is Weight Important for Elderly?
Weight is an ignored feature while purchasing vacuum cleaners, which is not a good practice. Similar to suction power, dust capacity, cleaning radius and engine power, weight should also be equally considered.
Weight decides how easy or difficult it will be to use the upright cleaner. Light cleaners are easy to move around your home, easy to carry through stairs, or to your car.
There are strong vacuums that weigh more than 10 KG, but they are not easy to drag around the house, especially during extended cleaning hours. The real trouble starts when you need to carry it up or down the stairs, where sometimes you may need another individual to help.
So, if you are elderly, you should choose a light upright cleaner. We are listing some the lightweight hoovers that are no less than any heavyweight machine in terms of performance and suction power. Some of these can surpass the suction ability of heavier counterparts.
The Buyers Guide- How to Choose the Best Elderly Vacuum
Now, you know why you should choose a lightweight vacuum cleaner, but you cannot browse through Amazon and buy the first one you see.
You have to do proper research to figure out which one will suit your requirements as easy to push vacuum cleaners comes in various shapes, with different feature. So, we will talk about the types that you need to check before you purchase a new vacuum. Let us start.
Generally, there are two types of vacuum cleaners.
Upright Vacuums: One of the popular choices is upright vacuums as they are easy to control and store. Such cleaners come with a brush bar that cleans the dirt even from harder places to reach, especially carpeted areas.
Cylinder vacuums: Traditional vacuum cleaners that are generally less expensive than the upright variants. Being comparatively lightweight, cylinder vacuums are ideal for vacuuming stairs, small places and upholstery. They also take less space and are easy to store.
With a bag or without it?
Whether you choose uprights or cylinder ones, you have to decide whether you want the bag with the main unit or not? Let us mentioned the advantages and disadvantages of both the types and depending upon the same, you can decide which one you need.
Bagged Vacuum cleaners: Such vacuums have a dust bag with the main compartment to store dust and everything else that it picks up while you clean. You can either empty the bag and put it back or dispose of it, depending upon the model.
Advantages
- Easy to dispose of dust. In such vacuums, you just have to remove the bag, empty it into a dustbin and attach it back with the vacuum. Easy and simple.
- Hygienic. If you have a respiratory concern like Asthma, then also you can use it easily as all the dust particles are stored inside an airtight bag.
Disadvantages
- Poor in performance. As the dust bag fills, the vacuum cleaner tends to degrade in terms of suction ability. So, you have to repeatedly drain the dust bag to get optimum suction performance.
- Expensive. If you choose to purchase a vacuum with a disposable dust bag, you are required to replace the dust bag once the current one is full. Over time, it may prove expensive to use.
Bagless Vacuum Cleaners: These vacuums store the dirt inside its dust canister using a filter such as HEPA filter that needs to be periodically cleaned.
Advantages
- Inexpensive. You will not be spending anything on replacing the dust bags, so vacuums without bags will prove to be cost-effective.
- Visible Dust. Most of the bagless vacuums have clear dust canister so that you can see what exactly it is picking while you clean. If it accidentally picks up any valuable small objects, you can easily take it out while emptying the canister.
- Easy to use. Due to the visibility of the dust canister, you can easily see when there is a need to drain it.
Disadvantages
- Can be allergic. While emptying the dust canister, there is nothing that can stop dust particles from entering your respiratory system, which can accidentally trigger an asthma attack or similar troubles. However, you can avoid any such problem by using a face mask, but again this is an added precaution you have to take which is not necessary in case of a bagged vacuum.
- Can create a mess. If you accidentally drop the dust canister while emptying, it will be a mess and has to be cleaned by you again.
- Expensive. If the brush breaks while cleaning, it can be costly to fix or replace it.
In short, you have to judge a vacuum cleaner depending upon its type and dust storing feature. Now, let us have a look at the ten best vacuum cleaners that are easy to push and can keep your house dust-free.
Bottom Line
While bulky vacuum cleaners give you excellent cleaning results, it has hard for the elderly to use them. That is why we have given you the best lightweight vacuums from established and reliable brands that are capable of providing desired results without any extra weight.
Weight should be one of the deciding factors, but you should also consider suction strength, motor power and dust capacity while purchasing an all-rounder vacuum cleaner.
We have selected only those products that can offer all such features. Hope you find this post useful and get the right lightweight hoover for your house.
