Your Guide to Choosing the Right Commercial Vacuum for Your Business

As a small business owner, it's important to make wise decisions when purchasing equipment for your business. One crucial piece of equipment that is often overlooked is a commercial vacuum cleaner. Choosing a proper commercial vacuum cleaner that's suited to your business can make a significant difference in cleanliness, productivity, and even the satisfaction of your customers. 

In this guide, we'll explore the most important factors to consider before purchasing a commercial vacuum cleaner, from the type of flooring in your space to the size of your business. Read on to find out which commercial vacuum cleaner is the right choice for you.

Although a commercial vacuum cleaner will generally outperform the type of cleaner you use at home, it's still important to ensure that you're purchasing an appliance that meets your business's needs. Take into consideration the following important factors before making a purchase, including the size of your space, the type of floors that you'll be cleaning, and the noise level of the machine.

Consider the Size of Your Space

The size of the space that you're cleaning will have a significant impact on the type of vacuum cleaner you'll need. For example, if you have a small office or retail space by square footage, then a lightweight, portable vacuum may be sufficient. However, if your business operates a large warehouse or manufacturing facility, you will definitely need a heavy-duty vacuum with a larger capacity and possibly a longer cord, too.

The Types of Floors Matter

Different types of flooring require different types of vacuum cleaners (or in some cases, a cleaner that is designed to handle more than one type of surface). If your business has mostly carpeted floors, you'll need a vacuum with strong suction and a beater brush to remove dirt and debris from deep within the fibers. On the other hand, if you have hard floors, such as tile or hardwood, you'll want to look for a vacuum with an attachment for hard floors that is designed to avoid scratching your surfaces.

Check the Noise Level

Vacuum cleaners can be particularly noisy appliances, and you may need to balance the power level of your vacuum with the desired noise level inside your space. If you have employees or customers in your business while you are vacuuming, for example, you'll probably want to choose a vacuum that is relatively quiet. Look for models with a low decibel rating to avoid disturbing others.

Keeping a small business clean can be a daunting task, especially considering the type of work your business may conduct and the amount of foot traffic you receive every day. Thankfully, there are many types of commercial vacuum cleaners available on the market designed to meet the needs of different businesses and spaces. Knowing which vacuum cleaner is right for your business can save you time, money, and effort in the long run. 

Upright Vacuums

These classic vacuum cleaners combine the motor, suction, and bag or canister into a single, self-contained unit. Their compact design offers unparalleled convenience, making it easier to maneuver the vacuum around your business and store it in smaller spaces when not in use.

Canister Vacuums

Canister vacuums have some of the same advantages as the upright style. They're easy to store, lightweight, and offer reduced noise levels, ensuring ease of use and minimal disruption in the workplace.

Cordless Vacuums

Cordless vacuums are much more portable than canister or upright alternatives because they use battery power instead of cords. They're perfect for businesses that require quick cleaning jobs, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The convenience of not having to carry a power cord makes cordless vacuums the ideal tool for janitorial businesses, hotels, and restaurants. However, they are generally not as powerful as corded vacuums and will require charging when not in use.

Backpack Vacuums

Backpack vacuums are designed to increase the user's comfort and productivity while providing portable and efficient cleaning. Their lightweight and ergonomic design allows operators to move freely and cover more area quickly. They may also offer easier access to accessories and attachments, speeding up your overall cleaning time.

Not sure which commercial vacuum cleaner is right for your small business? Our convenient, side-by-side comparison guide can help you make the right choice. Compare and contrast the features, advantages, and disadvantages of each type of cleaner in the handy guide below.

	Hand-Held	Upright	Canister	Backpack	Wet/Dry
Brand	Hoover	Sanitaire	Bissell	Hoover	Nilfisk
Weight	8.3 lb.	12.2 lb.	18.9 lb.	9.9 lb.	23 lb.
Use on These Surfaces	Upholstery, Carpet, Hard Floor	Carpet	Carpet, Hard Floor, Upholstery	Carpet, Hard Floor	Carpet, Hard Floor
Vacuum Power Source	Corded	Corded	Corded	Cordless	Corded
Vacuum Bag Type	Disposable Bag	Bagged	Paper	Disposable Bag	Disposable Bag
Vacuum Capacity	1/2 gal.	4-1/2 gal.	2 gal.	1-1/2 gal.	8 gal.
Power Cord Length	33.5'	30'	50'	N/A	24'
Air Flow	79 cfm	106 cfm	106 cfm	81 cfm	127 cfm
Sound Level	66 dB	60 dB	60 dB	71 dB	64 dB

Choosing the right commercial vacuum cleaner for your small business doesn't have to be a daunting task. In fact, your new vacuum can be an indispensable tool that helps you keep your business clean, boosting employee and customer satisfaction without making a big impact on your bottom line. Simply use our comparison guide to choose a commercial cleaner that fits your needs, budget, and space.

Looking for commercial vacuum cleaners, accessories, and other essentials for keeping your small business clean? Find everything you need to get the job done at Zoro.com!

Product Compliance and Suitability

The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.