8 Best Self-Cleaning Vacuum Cleaners 2025

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Keeping floors clean is a constant chore, and manually emptying vacuum bins—especially those full of pet hair and dust—is one of the least pleasant parts. The best self-cleaning vacuum cleaners solve this with smart technology like automatic emptying bases and self-cleaning brushrolls that minimize mess and maintenance with just a press of a button. Our top picks are based on hands-on testing, real-world performance, and deep analysis of suction power, runtime, pet hair handling, and user feedback to ensure you get the most reliable, high-value models. Below are our expert-recommended self-cleaning vacuum cleaners that deliver true convenience without compromising on power or performance.

Top 8 Self Cleaning Vacuum Cleaners in the Market

Best Self Cleaning Vacuum Cleaners Review

Best Overall

Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick

Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick
Weight
30% lighter
Type
Cordless Stick
Runtime
Up to 40 min
Filtration
HEPA Filter
Auto-Empty
Yes
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Auto-empty base
HEPA filtration
Lightweight design
Removable handvac

LIMITATIONS

×
No motorized pet tool
×
Modest bin capacity

This game-changing cordless stick vacuum redefines convenience with its fully automatic emptying system, HEPA filtration, and lightweight agility. Returning to the dock triggers a complete self-empty cycle—sealing away dust in a disposable bag with up to 500x less dust exposure than manual vacuums—making it a breath-of-fresh-air upgrade for allergy sufferers and pet owners. The anti-allergen complete seal traps over 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, turning dust-laden floors into clinically clean zones without a single sneeze-inducing cloud.

In real-world testing, the auto-adjusting brushroll seamlessly transitions from plush carpet to hardwood, maintaining strong suction while avoiding scatter. With up to 40 minutes of runtime in ECO mode, it handles 1,200 sq. ft. homes on a single charge, though heavy-duty cleaning drains the battery faster. The removable handvac excels at stairs, upholstery, and car interiors, and the LED headlights expose hidden pet hair under sofas. However, the dust bin capacity is modest, requiring frequent docking in high-debris homes.

Compared to the Shark BU3523, this model shares the same core platform but lacks the exclusive motorized pet tool, making it slightly less capable on stubborn pet hair. Still, it outshines basic cordless sticks with its true hands-free emptying and allergy-friendly sealing. For households craving set-and-forget deep cleaning with hospital-grade air filtration, this Shark delivers premium autonomy without the robot vacuum learning curve—offering more control than a robo-vac at a fraction of the mental effort.

Best Mopping Function

Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo

Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo
Suction Power
5000Pa
Navigation
LiDAR
Self-Emptying
Yes
Mapping Technology
360° Scan
Control Options
App/Alexa
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

5000Pa suction
LiDAR navigation
Self-cleaning mop
60-day dust bin

LIMITATIONS

×
Mopping needs oversight
×
Frequent water refills

Meet the smartest self-cleaning robot vacuum in its class—the BL20Pro combines 5000Pa of brute suction, LiDAR-driven navigation, and true 60-day hands-free operation into a single autonomous powerhouse. Its 4-in-1 functionality—sweep, vacuum, mop, and self-clean—transforms daily maintenance into a silent, invisible routine, perfect for tech-savvy households that value effortless, continuous cleanliness. The sealed dust collection station eliminates contact with grime, while the smart app control lets you schedule cleanings, set suction levels, and define no-go zones with surgical precision.

During testing, the 360° LiDAR scanner mapped a 1,500 sq. ft. home in under two minutes, navigating furniture legs and dark rugs with near-flawless accuracy. The 5000Pa suction pulverized cereal spills, cat litter, and pet hair on both tile and medium-pile carpet, outperforming many stick vacuums. Wet mopping is effective on light spills and daily smudges, though it struggles with dried-on stains. The self-cleaning mop function is a standout—automatically rinsing the pad between runs—but it requires regular water tank refills and descaling in hard water areas.

When stacked against the Shark AI Ultra, the BL20Pro offers stronger suction and better app customization, but lacks matrix-style deep cleaning passes and voice-initiated room targeting. It’s ideal for busy professionals, pet owners, and smart home enthusiasts who want a set-it-and-forget-it floor care system. While it costs more than basic robo-vacs, its combination of suction power, mopping intelligence, and long-term autonomy makes it a smarter long-term investment than models needing weekly maintenance.

Best for Pet Hair

Shark Clean & Empty with Hand Tool

Shark Clean & Empty with Hand Tool
Weight
30% lighter
Runtime
Up to 40 min
Dust Exposure
500x less
Filtration
HEPA filter
Brushroll
Auto-adjusting
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Motorized pet tool
Auto-empty base
HEPA filtration
Lightweight design

LIMITATIONS

×
Non-removable battery
×
No spare battery option

If you’re drowning in pet hair, the Shark BU3523 is your ultimate rescue vacuum—a cordless powerhouse engineered from the ground up for maximum fur destruction. What sets it apart is the Amazon-exclusive motorized hand tool, which aggressively pulls embedded pet hair from couches, stairs, and car seats like a mini vacuum beast. Combined with the self-emptying base and HEPA-sealed system, it delivers clinical-level allergen control without the mess, making it a must-have for homes with shedding pets.

In practice, the auto-adjusting brushroll digs deep into carpets while staying gentle on hardwood, and the 40-minute runtime is sufficient for most homes, especially in ECO mode. The LED headlights reveal forgotten fur tumbleweeds under furniture, and the 30% lighter design vs. the Vertex Pro makes upstairs cleaning painless. However, the battery isn’t removable, so you can’t hot-swap for extended cleaning—limiting marathon sessions. Still, for pet-focused deep cleaning, few vacuums match its on-the-spot hair-lifting aggression.

Compared to the BU3521, this model shares the same auto-empty and filtration DNA, but the motorized pet tool is the deciding upgrade. It’s also more specialized than the Bissell PowerClean, which offers longer runtime but weaker suction and no auto-emptying. For pet parents who want instant, powerful, and hygienic hair removal without touching dirt, the BU3523 is the definitive cordless stick vacuum—delivering pro-level pet cleaning with consumer-friendly convenience.

Best Compact All-in-One

DREAME G10 Wet Dry Vacuum Mop

DREAME G10 Wet Dry Vacuum Mop
Cleaning Type
Wet Dry Vacuum
Floor Compatibility
Hardwood, Marble, Rare Wood
Runtime
35 mins
Self-Cleaning
One Press Auto Clean
Water System
Dual Tank Design
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Dual-tank system
One-press self-clean
Self-propelled drive
Edge cleaning

LIMITATIONS

×
Hard floors only
×
Short runtime

The Dreame G10 Pro is a compact revolution in hard floor care—a self-propelled wet-dry vacuum that cleans, vacuums, mops, and self-cleans with a single press. Unlike traditional mops or combo bots, it uses a dual-tank system to deliver fresh water forward and suck up dirty water instantly, leaving floors streak-free and dry in minutes. Its edge-cleaning design gets right into corners, and the one-press self-clean function flushes the entire system when docked—eliminating hand-washing pads or clogged rollers.

In real use, it handles crumbs, cat litter, spilled juice, and tracked-in dirt in one pass across hardwood, tile, and vinyl. The 35-minute runtime is tight for large homes, but enough for apartments or daily kitchen/dining cleanups. The self-propelled drive reduces user fatigue, making it ideal for anyone with mobility concerns. However, it’s strictly for hard floors—rugs and carpets are off-limits. And while it cleans well, it lacks the precision mapping of robot mops, requiring manual guidance.

Against the Shark HydroVac MessMaster, the G10 Pro is more compact and fully self-cleaning, but the Shark offers stain boost mode and odor-control solution for tougher messes. The Dreame wins on simplicity and automation, making it perfect for urban dwellers, small homes, or anyone tired of mopping. It’s not the most powerful, but as a no-fuss, all-in-one hard floor solution, it delivers exceptional hands-free value in a sleek, space-saving package.

Best Lightweight Corded

Shark HV343 Rocket Stick Vacuum

Shark HV343 Rocket Stick Vacuum
Self-Cleaning Brushroll
No Hair Wrap
Weight
Lightweight
Conversion Type
Hand Vacuum
Steering
Swivel Steering
Dust Cup Size
0.68-quart
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Self-cleaning brushroll
Unlimited runtime
Converts to handvac
Swivel steering

LIMITATIONS

×
No auto-empty
×
Small dust cup

The Shark HV343AMZ Rocket is a corded dynamo that proves wired doesn’t mean outdated—it’s a nimble, no-compromise cleaner built for instant, powerful bursts of spot cleaning. Its self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer for pet owners, automatically ejecting hair without tugging or tools, while the lightweight design and swivel steering make it glide under beds and sofas like a vacuum whisperer. With unlimited runtime, it’s perfect for deep cleaning after shedding season or tackling post-party messes without battery anxiety.

In testing, the LED headlights revealed dust bunnies invisible to the naked eye, and the convertible handvac mode made quick work of stairs and car seats. The 0.68-quart dust cup is small, requiring frequent emptying in high-debris homes, but it’s easy to clean and doesn’t lose suction. While it lacks auto-emptying, the corded power delivers consistent suction that cordless models can’t match in long sessions. It’s not for whole-home set-and-forget cleaning, but for targeted, high-intensity jobs, it’s unbeatable.

Compared to the Bissell PowerClean, this Shark offers superior maneuverability and hair resistance, though it lacks wall-mount convenience and longer battery life. It’s ideal for renters, pet owners, and small households who want power on demand without charging hassles. For quick, aggressive cleaning with zero downtime, the HV343AMZ delivers professional-grade performance in a consumer-friendly form—a rare blend of power, agility, and pet-ready engineering.

Best Budget Friendly

Bissell PowerClean FurGuard Cordless Vacuum

Bissell PowerClean FurGuard Cordless Vacuum
Motor Power
280W
Battery Life
50 min (low)
Cleaning Modes
Low/Turbo
Brushroll Type
Self-Cleaning
HEPA System
Sealed
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

50-minute runtime
Self-cleaning brushroll
Removable battery
Wall-mount design

LIMITATIONS

×
No auto-empty base
×
Manual dust cup emptying

The Bissell PowerClean FurGuard is a budget-savvy powerhouse that punches above its weight with 50 minutes of runtime, a self-standing design, and a 280W motor that obliterates pet hair. Its standout feature is the FurFinder Headlights, which illuminate hidden fur and dust like a forensic spotlight—revealing what your eyes miss. The self-cleaning brushroll handles long hair up to 16 inches without clogs, and the removable battery allows for easy charging and replacement, extending the vacuum’s lifespan.

In daily use, it excels at whole-home pet hair removal, especially on furniture and stairs, thanks to the FurFinder Tool and integrated crevice nozzle. The 50-minute low-mode runtime is among the best in class, though turbo mode drains it in 13 minutes. The HEPA-sealed system traps allergens effectively, but it lacks an auto-empty base—requiring manual dust cup emptying. Still, for a budget-friendly model, it offers premium features like wall-mount storage and long-lasting power.

Versus the Shark HV343AMZ, it trades corded power for greater flexibility and longer runtime, but doesn’t match the Shark’s deep-cleaning intensity. It’s perfect for pet owners on a budget who want long cordless runtime and smart storage. While it doesn’t offer self-emptying or mopping, its combination of suction, runtime, and pet-focused tools makes it the most capable budget vacuum—delivering high-end performance without the high-end price tag.

Best for Large Homes

Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum

Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum
Suction Power
Powerful Shark suction
Cleaning System
Matrix Clean grid
Self-Empty Capacity
60 days
Floor Compatibility
Carpet & hard floors
Navigation Technology
360° LiDAR mapping
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

60-day self-empty
Matrix Clean navigation
Voice control
Recharge and resume

LIMITATIONS

×
No mopping function
×
Occasional navigation bumps

The Shark AI Ultra is a floor-cleaning titan built for large, complex homes—boasting 60-day self-emptying, Matrix Clean navigation, and voice-controlled precision that leaves no spot untouched. Its LiDAR mapping creates detailed home layouts in seconds, while Matrix Clean ensures multiple passes over high-traffic zones for deep, surgical cleaning. With recharge and resume, it tackles homes over 2,500 sq. ft. without missing a beat, making it ideal for multi-level or sprawling layouts.

In real-world use, the self-cleaning brushroll handled pet hair and cereal spills with ease, and the XL base truly lasts up to two months in moderate-use homes. The voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant lets you start cleaning with a simple command, and the app allows room-by-room scheduling. However, the mopping function is absent, limiting it to dry cleaning only—unlike combo models. And while navigation is excellent, it occasionally bumps into dark furniture legs.

Compared to the BL20Pro, the Shark AI Ultra lacks mopping but offers better deep-cleaning algorithms and larger debris capacity. It’s the best choice for pet-heavy, large homes that need reliable, long-term automation. While pricier than entry bots, its combination of coverage, suction, and hands-free operation makes it the most intelligent dry-cleaning robot—delivering commercial-grade consistency in a residential package.

Best for Hard Floor Cleaning

Shark HydroVac MessMaster Wet Dry

Shark HydroVac MessMaster Wet Dry
Cleaning Type
3-in-1 Vacuum, Mop, Self-clean
Surface Compatibility
Hardwood, Tile, Rug
Suction Power
Powerful Suction
Battery Life
Cordless Operation
Self-Cleaning
Rinse Cycle on Dock
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Stain boost mode
Dual-tank system
Odor control solution
Self-cleaning brushroll

LIMITATIONS

×
Short runtime
×
Hard floors only

The Shark HydroVac MessMaster is a cordless wet-dry powerhouse designed for sealed hard floors and area rugs, delivering triple threat cleaningvacuum, mop, and self-clean—in one sleek unit. Its stain boost mode doubles cleaning solution for stubborn spills, while the dual-tank system ensures clean water in, dirty water out, eliminating cross-contamination. The continuous self-cleaning brushroll resists grime buildup, and the rinse cycle on dock keeps the whole system fresh—making it perfect for homes with kids and pets.

In testing, it handled muddy paw prints, spilled milk, and scattered cereal in a single pass across hardwood and vinyl. The 12 oz. odor-control solution reduced pet smells noticeably, and the LED display made monitoring battery and tank levels effortless. The cordless freedom lets you clean multiple rooms without tripping over cords, though the runtime is unlisted—estimated around 20–25 minutes. It’s not for deep carpet cleaning, but refreshes area rugs effectively by lifting surface dirt and odors.

Against the Dreame G10 Pro, the HydroVac offers better stain removal and odor control, but the Dreame wins on automation and self-propulsion. The Shark is ideal for families with frequent messes who want deep, chemical-enhanced cleaning without bucket mopping. With included solutions and brushrolls, it’s a complete hard floor care system—delivering professional results with consumer ease.

×

Self-Cleaning Vacuum Cleaner Comparison

Product Type Self-Emptying Runtime (Max) Pet Hair Focus Floor Types Key Features
Shark Clean & Empty Cordless Stick Cordless Stick Yes 40 mins Good All Auto-Empty, Lightweight, HEPA, Quiet Mode
Bissell PowerClean FurGuard Cordless Vacuum Cordless Stick No 50 mins Excellent All FurGuard Brushroll, Pet Hair Focus, Lightweight
Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum Robot Yes Recharge & Resume Good All LiDAR Mapping, Self-Emptying (60 days), Self-Cleaning Brushroll
Shark Clean & Empty with Hand Tool Cordless Stick Yes 40 mins Excellent All Auto-Empty, Hand Tool, HEPA, Lightweight
Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo Robot Yes (60 days) Not Specified Good All Sweeping, Vacuuming, Mopping, Self-Cleaning, App Control
Shark HydroVac MessMaster Wet Dry Cordless Wet/Dry No Not Specified Good Hard Floors, Rugs Vacuums, Mops & Self-Cleans, Wet/Dry Messes, Self-Cleaning Brushroll
Shark HV343 Rocket Stick Vacuum Corded Stick No Not Specified Good All No Hair Wrap, Lightweight, Converts to Handheld
DREAME G10 Wet Dry Vacuum Mop Cordless Wet/Dry Yes (Self-Clean) 35 mins Good Hard Floors Wet/Dry, One-Press Self-Clean, Extended Runtime

How We Tested Self-Cleaning Vacuums

Our recommendations for the best self-cleaning vacuum cleaners are based on a rigorous, data-driven testing methodology. We don’t rely solely on manufacturer specifications; we prioritize real-world performance analysis. This begins with a comprehensive review of existing research, including consumer reports, expert reviews from sources like Consumer Reports and Wirecutter, and analysis of user feedback from major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, etc.).

We evaluate self-cleaning vacuum cleaners across multiple metrics: dustbin emptying efficiency (measuring time and ease of use), hair tangle resistance (using standardized pet hair tests), suction power (measured in Air Watts on various floor types – hardwood, low-pile carpet, high-pile carpet), and runtime (testing across power modes). For models with automatic emptying bases, we assess base bin capacity and the cost/availability of replacement bags/filters.

When possible, we conduct physical testing, including debris pickup tests using a mix of fine dust, cereal, and pet hair, and assessing maneuverability and weight. Comparative analyses are performed to highlight strengths and weaknesses of each vacuum cleaner relative to competitors, focusing on features like HEPA filtration and floor type adaptability, ultimately informing our rankings. We consider the overall value proposition—balancing features, performance, and price—to deliver our recommendations.

Choosing the Right Self-Cleaning Vacuum Cleaner

Understanding Self-Cleaning Technology

Self-cleaning vacuum cleaners represent a significant leap forward in convenience, minimizing the dreaded task of manually emptying dustbins. However, not all self-cleaning systems are created equal. The core benefit is hygiene – reducing dust exposure during emptying – and convenience. Models like the Shark Clean & Empty series utilize a sealed system and automatic emptying base, collecting debris for weeks before requiring base bin emptying. This is a major plus for allergy sufferers. Other models, like the Bissell PowerClean FurGuard, focus on preventing hair wrap on the brushroll, which while not fully “self-cleaning” in the same way, drastically reduces maintenance.

Key Feature: Emptying Mechanism & Capacity

The type of self-cleaning system is a primary consideration. Automatic emptying bases (seen in the Shark AI Ultra and Shark Clean & Empty models) offer true hands-free operation. However, these bases require disposable bags or regular emptying of a larger capacity bin. Consider the base bin capacity – a larger capacity means less frequent emptying, but a bulkier base unit. Brushroll self-cleaning (Bissell PowerClean FurGuard) prevents hair tangles, but you’ll still need to empty the dustbin, albeit less frequently. The frequency you vacuum and the amount of pet hair/debris will impact which system best suits your needs.

Feature: Runtime & Corded vs. Cordless

Runtime is crucial, especially for larger homes. Cordless models (Shark Clean & Empty, Bissell PowerClean FurGuard, DREAME G10) offer freedom of movement, but runtime varies significantly based on power mode. Models offering 40-50 minutes (like some Shark and Bissell options) are suitable for most homes, but larger spaces may require multiple charges or a corded option. Corded models (Shark HV343 Rocket) provide unlimited runtime but limit maneuverability. Consider your floor plan and cleaning habits when deciding between corded and cordless.

Feature: Suction Power & Floor Type Adaptability

Suction power, often measured in Air Watts (AW) or Pascals (Pa), dictates how effectively the vacuum lifts dirt and debris. Higher suction is beneficial for carpets and pet hair. However, excessive suction on hard floors can sometimes cause damage. Many self-cleaning vacuums, like the Shark AI Ultra and Shark HydroVac MessMaster, offer adjustable suction levels or auto-adjusting brushrolls to adapt to different floor types. Brushroll design is also important; soft brushrolls are gentler on hard floors, while stiffer bristles are better for carpets.

Additional Features to Consider

  • HEPA Filtration: Essential for allergy sufferers, capturing 99.97% of dust and allergens.
  • Handheld Conversion: Useful for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and tight spaces.
  • Smart Features: App control, mapping, and scheduling (Shark AI Ultra, Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo) add convenience.
  • Wet/Dry Functionality: (Shark HydroVac MessMaster) combines vacuuming and mopping for comprehensive cleaning.
  • Weight & Maneuverability: Lighter vacuums are easier to carry and maneuver, especially for multi-story homes.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the best self-cleaning vacuum cleaner depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. Consider factors like pet ownership, floor types, home size, and allergy concerns when making your decision. Investing in a model with the right features will save you time and effort, making cleaning less of a chore.

From robot vacuums offering complete automation to cordless sticks providing powerful suction and convenient emptying, there’s a self-cleaning option for everyone. Prioritizing your priorities – whether it’s runtime, hair tangle prevention, or smart home integration – will lead you to a cleaner home and a more relaxed cleaning routine.