Are you tired of seeing dust and dirt build-up in hard-to-reach spaces that you can’t get to? Are you low on storage space? Sometimes regular vacuums can be a hassle to store. Plus, they aren’t always flexible enough to clean tight spaces that need vacuuming.
Dustbusters offer an easy solution for cleaning up messes in any area of your home. They are compact and lightweight handheld vacuums that can clean dust and dry spills on almost any surface.
Whether you have carpet, hard floors, or rugs, dustbusters have a lot of features to make cleaning efficient and easy.
In this article, we’ll look at the best dust-busters on the market. So you can find the right tool for your cleaning needs.
Our Top Picks
The HouseWire earns a commission through the following independently chosen links at no additional cost to you.What to Look For in a Dustbuster?
These are the features you should look out for to find a handheld vacuum dustbuster that’s right for you.

Corded or Cordless
Corded models have the benefit of never running out of power. So they’re great if you have a large home to clean. However, it can be a struggle to find a power outlet to reach when you’re cleaning. Plus, a power cord trailing behind you can be an inconvenience.
But, corded models are more powerful than cordless models. Dust-busters with powerful motors require more electricity than batteries can provide. Therefore a corded vacuum tends to provide stronger suction power when you’re cleaning.
So, a corded option is a good choice for homes with pets. This is because their large motors can effectively suction up large quantities when removing pet hair without any extra hassle. For example, see this RAYCOP corded dustbuster.
Cordless models also have their benefits. For example, they are more convenient. They’re lightweight and compact. And you can carry a cordless dustbuster around your home without worrying about needing to reach a power outlet.
So if you want to clean furniture, upholstery, or various areas throughout your home, a cordless model may be more suitable.
But, they do have limited battery life. So they may run out of power in the middle of a cleaning session. However, some models have a battery indicator that shows you how much charge your dustbuster has.

Battery
For example, this VacLife handheld vacuum cleaner can last for up to 20 minutes of vacuuming. This means you can clean a large area without any interruption to charge your battery.
Some models also have an extra battery that you can charge separately. This can provide a lot of extended running time when you’re vacuuming big rooms.
Some models, like this VacLife, come with a replaceable battery and battery charger. Plus, they can also have a wall mount charger that makes charging and storage more convenient. For example, see this Black + Decker dustbuster.

Power Cord Length
In most cases, a long cord between 15 and 20 feet in length will be ideal for providing the best mobility. This way you can reach multiple tight corners without needing to unplug the cord while you’re cleaning.
However, a long cord can have some drawbacks too. For example, it can be a hassle to store and rewind a long cord. If there’s no hook on the vacuum cleaner, the cord can create a mess on the floor.
Plus, long cords can be more susceptible to wear and damage because they have thinner wires. Shorter cords are thicker and are therefore less likely to be damaged.
But, a shorter cord means you may have to keep unplugging your vacuum to reach your closest power outlet. And this can add a lot of time to your cleaning.

Filters
However, the best filter to look for is a certified HEPA filtration system. These high efficiency particulate air filters trap 99.97% of airborne particles and allergens (1). Which is a much higher percentage than other types of filtration systems.
However, make sure it’s a true HEPA filter and not a HEPA-type or media filter. True HEPA filters are tested and will have a certification number.
True HEPA filters can reduce health risks from particles and allergens in the air. For example, dust, mold, mists, pet dander, and pollen. And this can be especially helpful if someone in your household has allergies or asthma.
For example, this Hoover ONEPWR Dust Chaser has a media HEPA filter.

Capacity
A dustbuster with a larger capacity will require less emptying while you are cleaning. And this can save you a lot of time. You won’t have to stop in the middle of your cleaning to empty the dust.
However, because dust-busters are small, handheld vacuum cleaners, their capacity size is relatively limited to small messes. This is because the dust cup is designed to fit into the overall compact handheld body. But it’s still important to consider when you’re choosing a model that’s right for your needs.

Flexible Hose & Extension Wand
For example, this Bissell vacuum has a flexible hose attachment. So it’s suitable for above floor cleaning as well as carpets, nooks, and edges.
An extension wand is also a great tool for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. For example, see this SOWTECH dustbuster vacuum.
However, keep in mind that the suction power on less powerful vacuum cleaners will be reduced with an extension wand or hose. This is due to the longer airflow pathway on an extended hose.

Weight
Cleaning with a heavy handheld vacuum cleaner can put a lot of strain on your wrist. And considering the main benefit of a dustbuster is the portability and convenience, this can counter the benefits of using one.
However, most handheld vacuums are lightweight and easy to move around. They tend to weigh between 3 or 4 pounds. But some smaller models can weigh as little as 2 pounds or less.

Design
However, other vacuum cleaners can have even better design options. For example, the Black & Decker Pivoting Nozzle handheld vacuum cleaner has a rotatable head. You can rotate the pivoting nozzle to your preferred angle to clean awkward and hard-to-reach areas with ease.
Plus, if your vacuum has an extended hose, the shape and size of the body won’t be as important. The long hose will reach into corners and narrow spaces for you.
So consider your needs and the design of your dustbuster to find the perfect match for your cleaning.

Attachments
But, remember to consider only what your requirements are. Otherwise, you may end up paying for unnecessary attachments.
So it’s important to consider what attachments come with your hand vacuum. For example, crevice tools, a dust-brush tool, wide-mouth tool, pet hair brushes, or a mini motorized tool are popular attachments.
Crevice tools can provide a lot of versatility for reaching narrow spaces as well as cleaning upholstery and furniture. Plus, a motorized brush tool can help to agitate and lift stubborn dirt and debris from your carpets or hard floors.
Lastly, if you have hard floors, you should consider a soft brush tool. This will ensure you don’t scratch or damage your floor while you’re vacuuming pet hairs or debris with your dustbuster.
Before choosing your vacuum, consider your floor type and cleaning needs to find the right attachments for you.
The Best Dustbusters of 2023
After hours of researching honest reviews, expert advice, and technical specs, we’ve found the best dustbusters on the market.
We also compared the different features and drawbacks of each pick, so you can find the option that’s right for you. Here are the top 7 dustbusters of 2023.
1. BLACK+DECKER 16V dustbuster Handheld Vacuum

With long battery life, a lightweight build, and strong suction power, there’s not a lot this little vacuum can’t do. It has all the best features of a handheld vacuum cleaner to help you keep your house spotless without any hassle.
This Black + Decker dustbuster vacuum has 15.2 air watts of powerful suction featuring cyclonic action. So it can effortlessly clean pet hair and other stubborn debris on your floors. And the cyclonic action keeps the filter clean for efficient suctioning.
It also has a 20.6-ounce dust cup capacity that’s easy to empty and reattach. This provides a lot of convenience for cleaning. You can easily empty and reattach it while you’re cleaning with little interruption to your vacuuming.
The long-lasting lithium-ion battery can also hold a charge for up to 18 months. So you’ll always be ready to go with this handy dustbuster. It also features smart charge lithium technology that uses 50% less energy while you clean. So you can enjoy more suction power from each charge.
Lastly, the compact and lightweight build make it a versatile tool for more than just small messes around the house. You can also use this dustbuster to clean your furniture, mattresses, and window sills.
- High power motor for cleaning pet hair
- Easy to clean
- Fast-charging base
- Includes a 360-degree rotating nozzle for cleaning multiple surfaces
- Washable filter
- Lithium ion battery is irreplaceable
- Loud motor
Technical Specs
Weight | 2.6 lbs |
Battery life | 20 minutes |
Air Watts | 15.2 Watts |
Bin volume | 20.6 oz |
Surface type | Carpet, Upholstery, Car Seats, Window sills, Fabrics, Hard floor |
Included Accessories | pull-out crevice tool, flip-up dust brush tool |
2. BLACK+DECKER Cordless Handheld Vacuum

This Black + Decker cordless dustbuster handheld vacuum boasts all the best features of an efficient dustbuster with an affordable price tag.
The simple design of this dustbuster is built for quick and easy cleaning on the go. It comes with a 2AH lithium-ion battery kit for powerful suction and long-lasting battery life.
Both lightweight and cordless, this handheld vacuum provides a lot of portability when you’re cleaning. It’s also designed for multi-surface vacuuming. So you can use it on hardwood floors as well as carpets and cleaning upholstery.
Many reviewers rave about the versatile brush attachment on this Black + Decker handheld vacuum cleaner. The high-quality brush attachment is small and provides powerful cleaning on carpets and soft surfaces. It works especially well to lift dust from couches and area rugs.
The transparent dust bowl makes it easy to see all the dirt so you can tell when the vacuum is full. The dirt bowl is also detachable for easy emptying. You can unclip it and dispose of the dust straight into your trash. Then, you can easily reattach it and get straight back to cleaning.
Plus, according to reviewers, this Black + Decker hand vacuum has a long battery life of up to 30-minutes of run time. This is a lot more than most dust busters on the market. So it’s great if you have large areas to clean.
- 1-step wall mount charging system
- Suitable for different surfaces
- Powerful suction power at an affordable price
- Easy-grip long handle for comfortable cleaning
- Extended lithium ion battery life
- Exhaust is below the handle and can blow air in the direction that you’re vacuuming
- You have to constantly hold a switch to keep the vacuum running
Technical Specs
Weight | 1.43 lbs |
Battery life | 12 – 30 minutes |
Air Watts | N/A |
Bin volume | 12.5 ounces |
Surface type | Carpet, Upholstery, Hard floors, Furniture |
Included Accessories | brush cleaning tool, crevice tool |
3. Eufy by Anker HomeVac H11 Cordless Handheld Vacuum

This mini Eufy HomeVac is a great solution if you’re low on storage space. It’s one of the most compact dust-buster designs on the market.
Weighing 1.2 pounds, this dust-buster is almost the same size as a wine bottle. So you won’t have any trouble finding a space to store it. It will fit inside of a drawer or in your kitchen cabinet.
And to add to the compact convenience, this vacuum charges with a micro USB cable. That means there’s no extra charging base or dock to store either.
But, if you’re thinking its small size compromises on suction power, it doesn’t. This ultralight vacuum still holds powerful suction for efficient dusting and vacuuming. The strong suction power means you can clean quickly and get back to your other tasks.
Plus, it eliminates the need to go back and forth when you’re cleaning. The one-pass suction power vacuums it all in one movement. This can save you a lot of time and effort when you’re cleaning on the go.
The thin design makes it easy to clean narrow and tight spaces in your home as well as sharp corners and edges. This is especially helpful if you have a lot of furniture or obstacles to vacuum around in your room. You can cover every nook and corner so you don’t miss a single speck of dust.
- Ultralight design
- Dockless cable charging
- Includes 2-in-1 cleaning tool extension nozzle and crevice tool for extra reach
- Ergonomic, non-slip handgrip design for easy control and comfort
- Short run time
- The downward fan blows dust around
Technical Specs
Weight | 1.2 lbs |
Battery life | 13 minutes |
Air Watts | N/A |
Bin volume | 90 ml |
Surface type | Carpet, Upholstery, Auto, Hard floor |
Included Accessories | 2-in-1 crevice tool |
4. Shark WV201 WANDVAC Handheld Vacuum

Cleaning your car can feel like a big challenge. But, this Shark WandVac can take a lot of the hassle out of doing it.
We all know that crumbs and dirt can build up in the nooks in between the car seat and interiors. But the high-speed brushless motor on this vacuum provides powerful suction for cleaning in and around the seats of your car.
It boasts hyper-velocity suction power with a streamlined airflow for advanced cleaning power. So you won’t have to worry about leaving any crumbs behind.
Not only is it light and compact, but it’s also easy to maneuver. And this is essential if you want to efficiently clean the inside of your car. The wand shape design provides a lot of control to reach into narrow spaces and underneath seats without any effort.
Plus, it has a tapered nozzle to capture both fine dust and large debris. And the one-touch emptying feature makes it easy to dispose of the debris when it’s full.
The soft duster crevice tool is suitable for cleaning delicate surfaces such as the buttons and controls in your car. And it also comes with a multi-surface pet tool to effortlessly remove pet hair from your car interior.
Lastly, the ion charging dock provides fast charging and onboard accessory storage. The charging base also has a stylish design so you can leave it out without it looking messy.
- Accessory storage on the charging dock for quick access
- Easy-to-use touch controls
- Ultra-lightweight
- Hand-washable filtration system
- Suctions fine dust and tiny particles
- Short battery life of only 10 minutes of run-time
- Makes a loud high-pitched noise when in use
Technical Specs
Weight | 1.4 lbs |
Battery life | 10 minutes |
Air Watts | 32 Watts |
Bin volume | 4 oz |
Surface type | Carpet, Upholstery, Hard Floor,Car seats |
Included Accessories | crevice tool, soft dusting brush, multi-surface combination tool |
5. BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser Deluxe

This powerful Bissell Pet Hair Eraser was built for tough carpet cleanups.
More than just a regular dust-buster, it has a 3-stage cleaning process for removing any marks from your carpet. It sprays, scrubs, and suctions for thorough cleaning of stains from your carpet fibers without the need to use any elbow grease. This vacuum does all the hard work for you.
It comes with a ready-to-use formula that can be stored in the vacuum itself. So it’s always ready to go when you need it. And you don’t need to mix it with water. You can pour into the vacuum container and begin cleaning straight away.
Plus, it’s a cordless machine. So you can use it anywhere in your home. Without a cord, you have a lot of freedom to grab and go wherever your carpets are.
But, this Bissell Pet Hair Eraser is also perfect for cleaning messes on hard surfaces too. With multiple attachments, this handheld vacuum combines multiple tools in one. You can use it to clean your upholstery, furniture, and walls.
It also comes with a detachable window tool to remove dirt and grime from any hard surface or floor. So you can clean your windows too.
- Versatile vacuum for multi-surface cleaning
- Suitable for all kinds of stains including wet and dry messes
- Sturdy handle for easy control
- Window cleaning attachment for cleaning mirrors and glass
- Some users reported leaking from the water chamber
- Heavy to hold while cleaning
Technical Specs
Weight | 7.24 lbs |
Battery life | 15 minutes |
Air Watts | N/A |
Bin volume | 8 oz |
Surface type | Carpet, Upholstery, Glass/Windows, Furniture,Hard floor |
Included Accessories | detachable window tool |
6. BLACK+DECKER dustbuster Wet/Dry Handheld Vacuum

For wet messes and spills, this Black + Decker vacuum is the one for the job. You’ll be prepared for any cleaning situation with this versatile handheld vacuum dust-buster.
This efficient Black + Decker vacuum cleaner has high-power suction and long lithium ion battery life. So it’s built to tackle big messes including both wet and dry spills.
It can suction up to 8oz of liquids. Therefore you won’t have to worry about mopping before you vacuum with this cleaner. You can grab it and tackle the mess straight away.
It has several combination tools that make it an efficient cleaner for almost any spill. The extra attachments include a push-in squeegee, brush, and crevice tool.
If you have a big spill, you can use the vacuum with the crevice tool to suction any loose debris. Or, you can use the squeegee attachment to wipe away liquids. And the brush is designed for agitating stubborn dust and debris on your floors.
Lastly, this Black & Decker vacuum comes with a washable filter that can last up to 9 months. So you won’t have to replace it with a new filter any time soon.
- Quick and easy to empty after each clean
- Easy-to-clean dirt bowl
- Includes a wall mount for convenient storage
- Lithium technology provides powerful suction
- Cordless vacuum
- Confusing instructions for setup
- Loud
Technical Specs
Weight | 2.01 lbs |
Battery life | N/A |
Air Watts | N/A |
Bin volume | 8 oz |
Surface type | Carpet, Upholstery, Auto, Hard floor |
Included Accessories | push-in squeegee, push-in brush, and crevice tool |
7. Dirt Devil Scorpion Corded Handheld Vacuum

This corded Dirt Devil Scorpion handheld vacuum boasts all the best features of an efficient dust-buster. Because it’s corded, the Dirt Devil Scorpion provides the same amount of suction power as an upright vacuum cleaner. But, it has the convenience of a handheld vacuum body.
So it can deliver deep cleaning in small areas with little effort. And, you’ll never run out of power. As long as you have a power outlet close by, you can keep vacuuming for as long as you need.
This simple unit is designed for easy-to-use convenience. It comes with a 16-foot cord length and weighs less than 4 pounds. So you can carry it around without any effort.
It also has a built-in quick-flip crevice tool that’s perfect for cleaning your car interior or underneath furniture. And you don’t have to worry about needing to attach it when you need it. It flips down with the push of a button so it’s always ready to use.
But, what stands out with this Dirt Devil Scorpion handheld vacuum dust-buster is the detachable 2.5-foot hose. The extra hose length provides a lot of versatility for cleaning different areas and narrow spaces. Plus, it provides extra reach for above-floor cleaning too.
From under couch cushions to carpet corners and cabinet tops, you can tackle all the dust in any area with this convenient hose.
- Washable filters
- Hose attachment provides a lot of extra reach
- Low maintenance
- Affordable upright vacuum quality
- Small dust cup capacity
- Some found that the body was fragile and can break during use
Technical Specs
Weight | 3.75 lbs |
Battery life | corded |
Air Watts | N/A |
Bin volume | 0.45 liter |
Surface type | Carpet, Upholstery, Hard floor |
Included Accessories | crevice tool, attachable hose, sliding brush, upholstery tool |
Dustbusters Comparison Chart
Product | Weight | Battery life | Air Watts | Bin Volume |
---|---|---|---|---|
BLACK+DECKER 16V dustbuster Handheld Vacuum | 2.6 lbs | 20 minutes | 15.2 Watts | 20.6 oz |
BLACK+DECKER Cordless Handheld Vacuum | 1.43 lbs | 12 - 30 minutes | None | 12.5 ounces |
Eufy by Anker HomeVac H11 Handheld Vacuum | 1.2 lbs | 13 minutes | None | 90 ml |
Shark WANDVAC Handheld Vacuum | 1.4 lbs | 10 minutes | 32 Watts | 4 oz |
BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser Deluxe | 7.24 lbs | 15 minutes | None | 8 oz |
BLACK+DECKER dustbuster Wet/Dry Handheld Vacuum | 2.01 lbs | N/A | None | 8 oz |
Dirt Devil Scorpion Corded Handheld Vacuum | 3.75 lbs | Corded | None | 0.45 liter |
FAQs About Dustbusters
Keep these details in mind before buying your handheld vacuum dust-buster.

How to Care for Your Dustbuster?
- Firstly, you should always empty the dust bowl on your handheld vacuum after every clean. Or, if it has a dust bag, make sure you change it before it gets too full. We recommend changing the bag when it’s between half and two-thirds of its full capacity.
- If your dust-buster begins to lose suction power, thoroughly clean the inside of the dust container. Use warm soapy water to wash and rinse. Then, allow it to dry completely before using your handheld vacuum again.
- Lastly, make sure you regularly wash the filter on your dust cup if it’s washable. Some filters are non-washable. If your dustbuster has non-washable filters, you should vacuum them regularly to clean them.
But, always remember to check the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper care instructions for your model.

How Often Do The Dustbuster’s Filters Need To Be Changed?
However, replacing it at least once a year is good practice. But keep in mind that if your filter begins to show wear and tear or damage you should change it straight away.

How to Replace Dustbuster Battery?
- First, make sure you completely discharge your battery before disassembling it. You can do this by turning it on and leaving it running until the motor completely stops.
- Then, slide the battery away from the body. Or, depending on the model, you may need to use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the battery from the housing cover.
- Next, detach the lead connections from the battery pack. Remove the battery and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to dispose of it.
- Then, replace the new battery into the housing and reattach the cover. Make sure the vacuum is reassembled securely before switching it back on.
As we mentioned before, you should always check your manufacturer’s instructions to find the correct replacement method for your model.
Busting The Dust
Cleaning hard-to-reach areas can be a big hassle. Especially with a full-sized canister vacuum cleaner.
But, with a handheld vacuum dust-buster, the task is easy. A dust-buster is a lightweight and compact solution for cleaning dust and dry spills from any surface in your home.
Remember to consider the different factors to find the best handheld vacuums for your needs. Consider the power cord length or battery life on your model. Also, consider the best type of filter for your home as well as the dust-cup capacity size.
Finally, think about the weight, design, and attachments that are most suitable for your cleaning needs. With these in mind, you can find a handheld vacuum dust-buster to suit all of your cleaning challenges.
Are you ready to bust the dust in your home? Leave us a comment down below and let us know. Or, share this article with a friend so they can bust their dust too.