GoKawiilWe test all sizes and shapes of vacuums here at CNET. From lightweight cordless alternatives to increasingly advanced robot vacuums, we've put hundreds of models across every category through their paces. Our cordless vacuum testing takes place at the CNET test lab in Louisville, Kentucky. Each cordless vacuum goes through a gamut of tests across different flooring types, along with evaluations of features, battery life and overall usability. Here’s how we do it.
How we test cordless vacuum cleaners at CNET
All the vacuums on CNET's best lists are tested and evaluated in our state-of-the-art test labs. CNET Testing Labs go beyond product specifications to test in real-world conditions with real-life messes. Over the years, our experts have tested 50 cordless vacuums and counting.
Here's a breakdown of how we measure cordless stick vacuum performance.
We test the vacuums on both hardwood and two diffrent types of carpet. Getty Images/Amy Kim/CNET
Cordless vacuum scoring methodology
The main test we use on all vacuums is a straight-line test across different flooring types (hardwood floors, low-pile carpet and midpile carpet). The test involves vacuuming at a standard suction level, along with calculations to ensure it’s fair for all the models that pass through our lab.
Our process is closely aligned with the standard established by the International Electrotechnical Commission. The goal of a straight-line test is to measure what percentage of dirt the vacuum is capable of picking up. We use play sand and pet hair as our primary test materials, along with our dust area adjuster to measure how much we disperse on the floor.
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