Best vacuums

Start with the Dyson V12 Detect Slim — it's the best all-rounder: light enough to carry up stairs, strong on both carpet and hard floors, and it turns into a handheld for sofas and cars. It's the one most people should buy.

Who the others suit:

• Shark PowerDetect Cordless — if you want Dyson-level cleaning with a longer warranty and a lower price.
• Dyson V11 Origin — big suction and a HEPA filter; the value pick if you mostly have carpet.
• Shark Navigator Lift-Away ADV — a corded upright for deep whole-house cleaning and pet hair.
• Eureka ReactiSense 440 — a solid cordless for a first vacuum or a second one upstairs.
• Levoit LVAC-200 / PrettyCare W200 — tight budgets and light apartments.

Skip the no-name sticks if you have pets or thick carpet.