Best RV Vacuums: Compact And Powerful Options That Do Suck

Keep your RV pristine with these space-saving and efficient RV vacuums.

byLisa Conant|
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BYLisa Conant/ LAST UPDATED ON May 18, 2022

When it comes to keeping your RV clean, it can seem like a job that’s never been done. With people constantly going in and out and tracking dirt, mud, gravel, and other debris all over the place, you might feel like you’re constantly cleaning. And, with so many nooks and crannies and oddly shaped spaces, it can be difficult to reach certain spots in your rig in order to get a thorough cleaning. 


Regular household vacuums are often too big and bulky to make sense for use in your RV. So, if you’re in the market for a compact yet powerful vacuum that will get into all the places you need without taking up a ton of space, check out our top picks for the best RV vacuums. We’ve even included a handy buying guide to help you figure out what to look for in a high-quality vacuum that will provide you with meticulous cleaning for years to come.

Best Overall
Eureka RapidClean Pro Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Eureka RapidClean Pro Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Summary
A lightweight cordless vacuum that’s powerful enough to clean your entire RV and is offered at a price point that won’t make you want to cry.
Pros
  • Super lightweight
  • Slim and compact design
  • Long cordless runtime
Cons
  • Top-heavy design makes using it awkward
  • Motor may not last as long as some higher-end models
Best Value

Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum

Summary
Weighing less than four pounds, it’s a super slim and easy-to-use choice that’s offered at a surprisingly low price point.
Pros
  • Super affordable
  • Uber compact and lightweight
  • Functions as a 3-in-1 machine
Cons
  • Not as strong suction as some competing models
  • Less holding capacity than some other models
Honorable Mention

Shark ION F80 Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum

Summary
This is a powerful cordless vacuum that can run for up to 80 minutes before needing a recharge.
Pros
  • Up to 80 minutes of cordless runtime
  • Includes two removable lithium-ion batteries
  • Vacuum can be run at different angles to get into tight spots easily
Cons
  • Not as strong suction as some competing models
  • Less holding capacity than some other models

Our Methodology

When it comes to choosing the best RV vacuums available, we wanted to provide you with a well-rounded list that features a good variety of reputable manufacturers with solid track records of providing high-quality, long-lasting products. We wanted to include a wide range of price points to suit any budget. Lastly, we wanted to feature RV vacuums that use the latest in design technology and feature innovative, space-saving designs that are suitable for a wide variety of RV makes and models. There’s literally something for everyone. For more info on our selection criteria, click this link to The Drive’s Gear About page, which explains our methodology further.

Best RV Vacuum Reviews & Recommendations

Specs

  • Brand: Eureka
  • Model: NEC180
  • Weight: 5.26 pounds
  • Pros

  • Super lightweight
  • Slim and compact design
  • Long cordless runtime
  • Cons

  • Top-heavy design makes using it awkward
  • Motor may not last as long as some higher-end models

  • The Eureka RapidClean Pro Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner gets high marks for being a great overall cordless vacuum that’s powerful enough to clean your entire RV and is offered at a price point that won’t make you want to cry. With 40 minutes of cordless run-time, you should be able to thoroughly clean every square inch of your RV, regardless of its size. This space-saving model has a cleaning path of 9.8 inches, so it’s also a great option for smaller RVs. It’s suitable for use on hardwood, laminate, and low pile carpets, making it a versatile choice for any RV goer.

    A super bright LED headlight lets you see in darker nooks of your rig, so you’ll be sure not to miss anything. This model is also equipped with a handy max power switch that quickly increases suction for hard to get dirt and debris. The drawback of this model would be that due to its top-heavy design, it cannot stand on its own. It can be awkward to steer around your RV because of this also.

    Specs

  • Brand: Bissell
  • Model: 2033M
  • Weight: 3.78 pounds
  • Pros

  • Super affordable
  • Uber compact and lightweight
  • Functions as a 3-in-1 machine
  • Cons

  • Not as strong suction as some competing models
  • Less holding capacity than some other models

  • If storage space and budget are big concerns for you, check out the Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum. Weighing less than four pounds, it’s a super slim and easy-to-use choice that’s offered at a surprisingly low price point. It’s also cleverly designed to be used as either a stick vacuum, stair vacuum, or handheld vacuum. It comes equipped with a crevice tool for hard-to-reach spots and a floor nozzle for stairs. This vacuum is suitable for use on hard floors, area rugs, and low-pile carpeting.

    This model lacks a rolling brush option, so it may not get as deep down into carpet fibers as some other choices. It also has a smaller dirt cup capacity than some other choices and a shorter cord. That said, this is a great choice for smaller RVs with space constraints.

    Specs

  • Brand: Shark
  • Model: IF281
  • Weight: 8.51 pounds
  • Pros

  • Up to 80 minutes of cordless runtime
  • Includes two removable lithium-ion batteries
  • Vacuum can be run at different angles to get into tight spots easily
  • Cons

  • Pricey
  • Heavier than some other options

  • The Shark Ion F80 Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum deserves some attention for being a powerful cordless vacuum that can run for a long time before needing a recharge. In fact, thanks to the dual lithium-ion battery packs, you can get up to 80 minutes of continuous runtime, which smokes most of the other cordless vacuum competition. It features Duoclean technology, which offers one powerhead with two different brush rolls that are meant to pick up either large debris or finer particulates.

    The MultiFlex reach design lets you bend the want to easily access hard-to-reach areas, like under tables, sofas, beds, and seats. This model also transforms into a convenient handheld vacuum which is great for seat cushions, beds, countertops, and more. A couple of things to note: this model is pretty pricey compared to some others. Its dirt cup capacity is also pretty pathetic compared to competing options. Lastly, the handheld portion is somewhat bulky and awkwardly designed. It does fold down for very compact storage when not in use, though.

    Specs

  • Brand: Tineco
  • Model: VS100100US
  • Weight: 11.24 pounds
  • Pros

  • Smart technology senses dirt and debris
  • Safe to use on a variety of surfaces
  • Automatic suction adjustment
  • Cons

  • Heavier than many other models
  • Requires a wall-mounted charger

  • For those who love their high-tech tools, you have to put the Tineco Pure One X Smart Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum on your list of possible RV vacuum options. This is an ultra-quiet, sleek cordless vacuum that gives you up to 70 minutes of uninterrupted runtime. It’s equipped with an industry-leading iLoop smart sensor that actually detects hidden dirt and debris and automatically adjusts the suction strength to account for that. A clever LED light ring on the display changes from red to blue when the area is appropriately cleaned.

    This model features a full-size multi-surface power brush and a super bright LED headlight to see clearly into dimly lit spaces. It also converts to a handheld vacuum for added convenience. One drawback to this unit is that it does require a wall-mounted charger, which is a deal breaker for some RV owners. It’s also quite a bit heavier than some other choices and may not be appropriate for all RV makes and models.

    Specs

  • Brand: SharkNinja
  • Model: CH900WM
  • Weight: 1.98 pounds
  • Pros

  • Ultra light and compact
  • Surprisingly large dust cup
  • Powerful suction for a handheld vacuum
  • Cons

  • Short battery life
  • Not as powerful as a larger floor vacuum

  • If you’re in the market for an RV vacuum that takes up as little space as possible, it’s tough to look past the Shark Ultra Cyclone Pro Cordless Handheld Vacuum. This compact little vacuum is surprisingly strong for a handheld vacuum and can easily clean small to midsize RVs in a snap. It’s easily stored in inconspicuous areas, making it a great choice for those with space limitations. At around two pounds, this vacuum is also super lightweight and easy to use.

    It comes with a handy crevice tool and a small scrubbing brush that are great for getting into tight spaces. The CleanTouch dirt ejector allows you to easily empty the dirt cup for clean, hands-free disposal. The dirt cup itself is surprisingly large for a handheld vacuum. One downside is that this model has a notoriously short battery life before needing a recharge.

    Specs

  • Brand: Oreck
  • Model: BB900-DGR
  • Weight: 5 pounds
  • Pros

  • Lots of accessory attachments
  • Long power cord
  • Lightweight canister model
  • Cons

  • Requires bags that need to be replaced
  • Not the most durable option on the market

  • If bagless vacuums just aren’t your thing, you might like the cleanliness and ease of the Oreck Commercial XL Pro 5 Super Compact Canister Bagged Vacuum. It holds all debris and dirt in an easy-to-remove bag that doesn’t let dust and dirt scatter all over the place when you need to dispose of it as some bagless vacuums will. Weighing a mere five pounds and with its handy shoulder strap, this canister vacuum is easy to cart around your RV. It’s equipped with a plethora of accessory tools that are ideal for cleaning multiple surfaces, like ceiling fans, counters, shelves, curtains, light fixtures, floors, seats, and more.

    The 30-foot power cord is plenty long enough to clean most RVs without needing to move the plug. Also, this unit comes with a fairly long cleaning hose that gives you even more cleaning reach. The drawback is that you have to purchase replacement bags. It also loses some love for being less durable than some other options.

    Specs

  • Brand: HP
  • Model: ‎1228.1029
  • Weight: 21 pounds
  • Pros

  • Permanently built into your RV for the ultimate in space-saving
  • Stores up to one gallon of dirt and debris
  • Expandable hose can go from 7-35 feet in length
  • Cons

  • Requires a lot of effort to permanently install
  • Pricey

  • This RV and boat-specific vacuum saves you the most amount of space in your rig by being permanently built-in. This also helps to add to your RV’s resale value, unlike other RV vacuums on our list. This vacuum features a sizable one-gallon dirt reservoir, easily the largest capacity on this list, as well. Backed by an impressive five-year warranty, you’ll have lots of peace of mind with this choice.

    This versatile vacuum can be mounted in an upright or side-lying position. The HEPA filter bags capture up to 99.97 percent of particles that measure 0.3 microns or smaller, making this a great option for allergy sufferers or people with respiratory issues. The durable suction hose can expand from 7 to 35 feet, easily covering most RV makes and models. Along with the telescoping wand, you get a crevice tool, dusting brush, rug and floor tool, upholstery tool, and a three-pack of HEPA replacement bags. The drawback to this unit is that installation can be a bit time consuming. It’s also a little on the pricey side.

    Specs

  • Brand: Black+Decker
  • Model: ‎BDH1200FVAV
  • Weight: 3.3 pounds
  • Pros

  • Can plug into any RV 12-volt power source
  • Also a great option for automobiles
  • Long extended hose lets you reach places other 12-volt vacuums can’t
  • Cons

  • Power cord is less convenient than cordless models
  • Suction power is less than many other options

  • The Black+Decker Flex 12V Vacuum is a great option for any RVer that likes to use their 12-volt DC power source versus the standard AC power outlets when it comes time to vacuum their rig. Weighing only 3.3 pounds, this is a compact, yet versatile option that is far superior to most handheld 12-volt models. The integrated hose and crevice tool are extra long, allowing you to reach into tight spaces and tiny areas that other vacuums can’t. It also comes backed by a decent two-year limited warranty.

    The soft brush attachment is great for floors, countertops, and shelves. A 16-foot power cord gives you a respectable reach, although not nearly as convenient as a cordless option. The plus side is that the battery will never die in the middle of cleaning. This model offers good suction for a 12-volt handheld, but can’t really compare to larger AC stick vacuums in terms of power and cleaning area. The carrying handle is super ergonomic and comfortable and the dust cup is also a respectable size.

    Our Verdict on RV Vacuums

    When it comes to the best overall RV vacuum, the Eureka RapidClean Pro Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is our pick to click in terms of combining lightweight, compact sizing, suction power, reliability, and price point. 

    If you’re in the market for a super budget-friendly choice that doesn’t sacrifice functionality for cost, check out the Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum

    Consider Secondhand

    When we start shopping for tools and products, we never overlook the secondhand market. In fact, it’s usually the first place we look. Whether you’re scrolling through Amazon’s Renewed section, eBay for car parts or tools, or flipping through the pages of Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist, you have hundreds of thousands of used tools, parts, and gear ready to be shipped to your doorstep. Refurbished to like-new status, they’ll be willing to give you many more years of faithful service all while saving you money. It also has the benefit of you not having to cut open an Amazon box inside an Amazon box with bubble wrapped around the part.

    If those options above don’t have what you need, your local salvage yard is great for car parts, while swap meets are a great resource you should absolutely tap. Just Google either and head on down.  

    Secondhand Tips

    To make your secondhand search easier, here are two tips to finding the best deals and making sure your new-to-you stuff wasn’t destroyed by the previous owner. 

    • When going with an online seller, make sure they have a high user rating and a great reputation among other consumers. 
    • When buying secondhand, do your homework. Shop around and compare pricing between sellers to make sure you’re not getting taken to the cleaners.

    What to Consider When Buying RV Vacuums

    Buying an RV vacuum is considerably different from purchasing a vacuum that you use at home. Major considerations like size, weight, and where you will store the vacuum when not in use can be a game changer, depending on the make and model of your RV. Let’s face it — if you’re in a tiny pop-up tent trailer, you’re probably not going to choose a large canister vacuum to get the job done. We’ve got some great tips and tricks for you when it comes to ensuring you get the RV vacuum that is just right for you.

    RV Vacuum Key Features

    Size and Weight

    This might be the most important feature when choosing an appropriate RV vacuum. Obviously if you have a tiny tow-behind teardrop or pop-up tent, you might want to look at ultra compact and lightweight handheld options. These are easier to store and they’ll still do a quick and thorough job on the few surfaces you need to vacuum in such a small space. 

    For larger RVs and those McMansions on wheels, you’re going to have less constraints, and so you could opt for a larger stick vacuum or even a built-in canister vacuum if you prefer. Weight-wise, whatever option you choose should be something that you can easily and comfortably maneuver without too much strain. 

    Power Source 

    Some RVers want to go with an RV vacuum that draws directly from their rig’s 12-volt DC power supply. Others may want a corded model that plugs into their AC outlets, while still others may opt for a cordless version that they can keep charged at home and just bring along with them when they go camping. Whatever your preference, just be sure the power draw of the vacuum you choose won’t overload your system and draw too much power, thus killing your RV batteries.

    Accessories

    If you have an RV with lots of different surfaces, such as carpeting, area rugs, hardwood, laminate, vinyl, curtains, etc., you’re going to want to look for a variety of attachments and accessories that will allow you to quickly and meticulously clean those surfaces. Attachments like crevice tools, dust brushes, upholstery brushes, and more can make a huge difference in the time it takes to clean your RV and in the quality of the cleaning you get. 

    RV Vacuum Pricing 

    Smaller, more compact handheld RV vacuums can be super budget-friendly, costing anywhere between $30 and $90, depending on the motor size and power source you go with. Upright and stick vacuums will run you from $45 to $500, depending on what bells and whistles and high-tech options you just can’t live without. And lastly, canister vacuums can usually be gotten for between $100 and $350, again, depending on the features and accessories you choose. 

    FAQs 

    You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.

    Q: Are bagless vacuums better than bagged vacuums?

    A: This is all based on personal preference. Bagless vacuums have the advantage of being convenient and easy to empty without struggling with removing and replacing a bag. The downside is that often, during emptying, debris and dust from bagless vacuums will escape back into the air and thus, your RV. Severe allergy sufferers usually prefer bagged vacuums for that exact reason.

    Q: Should I buy a cordless vacuum?

    A: If you spend a lot of time in your RV, a cordless vacuum can be great in terms of allowing you to charge the vacuum at home first, thus drawing less power from your RV battery. That said, if you have a lot of cleaning to do, cordless vacuum batteries tend to die relatively quickly and need to be recharged frequently. If you do a lot of vacuuming, either go for a cordless vacuum that comes with a super long runtime, or stick with the reliability of a corded model.

    Q: What attachments do I need for my RV vacuum?

    A: If you have just straight carpet and hard floors, you can probably get away with just a regular brushroll and a crevice tool. If you want to clean upholstery, shelves, curtains, and more, then look for tools that handle those specific tasks when purchasing your RV vacuum.

    Why Trust Us

    Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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