10 Best Upright Vacuums 2025 in the UK

The Shark Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner, model IZ202UKT, stands out in the category of upright vacuums with its cordless convenience and versatile features. It boasts a notable Anti Hair Wrap Technology, which efficiently removes hair from the brush-roll, making it particularly effective for households with pets or long hair. The vacuum offers a run-time of up to 40 minutes, providing adequate cleaning time for most home environments, although this duration is based on using the least power-intensive settings.

With a weight of 2.2kg, it is lightweight and maneuverable, ideal for quick clean-ups and easy handling. Its Flexology wand enhances accessibility by bending to reach under furniture, which is a thoughtful design for those who wish to avoid excessive bending. The vacuum can also transform into a handheld model, making it versatile for cleaning various surfaces, including stairs, ceilings, and upholstery.

The included HEPA filtration system is a strength, capturing dust and allergens, which is a bonus for allergy sufferers. Being bagless, it eliminates the need to purchase replacement bags, though it requires regular emptying of the 1-liter dust capacity. While the cordless feature offers flexibility, the need to charge the removable battery could be a consideration, especially for larger spaces requiring more extensive cleaning sessions. However, the vacuum compensates with a portable battery charger and a five-year warranty, adding reliability.

Attachments such as the Pet Tool, Crevice Tool, and Upholstery Tool increase its functionality across different cleaning tasks. The LED headlights are a helpful addition for visibility in low-light areas. The Shark Cordless Stick Vacuum is a solid choice for those seeking a balance of power, flexibility, and convenience, particularly in mid-sized homes or apartments.

The Vax Mach Air Upright Vacuum Cleaner is designed for those seeking a high-performance cleaning tool with some notable strengths. Its multi-cyclonic technology ensures consistent suction power, which is crucial for effectively picking up dust and debris. Being bagless and equipped with a large 1.5-liter capacity, it allows for longer cleaning sessions without frequent stops to empty the canister, making it convenient for larger areas. Weighing under 5 kg, this vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver, which is a plus for anyone who needs to carry it up and down stairs regularly. The inclusion of a 2-in-1 dusting brush and crevice tool adds versatility, enabling users to clean various surfaces and tight spaces effectively.

In terms of filtration, the Vax Mach Air features a washable HEPA filter, which is excellent for allergy sufferers as it captures fine particles and allergens, improving indoor air quality. However, it's important to note that this model is corded, which may limit mobility compared to cordless options. Although it performs well on carpets (Class A performance), it's less effective on hard floors (Class C performance), which might be something to consider based on your flooring type.

The vacuum operates at a noise level of 80 dB, which is relatively standard but might be a bit loud for some users. Despite these points, the vacuum has been well-received, indicating satisfaction with its performance and usability.