I’ve tested dozens of vacuums over the years, from self-emptying robot vacuums to do-it-all upright vacuums, like my favorite, the Shark AZ2002 Vertex. And in the endless debate between corded vs. cordless models, I tend to prefer the former because of their (typically) superior power output and unlimited runtime.

That said, I can’t deny a good cordless vacuum’s place in the average cleaning routine. They’re lightweight and versatile, and newer models offer suction power that comes surprisingly close to a traditional corded upright.

They’ve also come a long way since I first started testing them. The Dyson V15 Detect, our Best Overall cordless stick vacuum, converts to a handheld device and comes with two different vacuum heads designed to help you clean up with great efficiency. And the Bissell PowerClean FurGuard Cordless Stick Vacuum has one of the best collections of features of any vacuum I’ve tested.

Bissell PowerClean FurGuard Tested and Reviewed

I used this vacuum all over my apartment. With it, I cleaned tile, laminate, carpet, and upholstery. There are three power options that I was able to change with a button on the handle, and I found the second level to be sufficient for all surface types. The FurGuard lies completely flat, making it convenient for getting under furniture, and the swivel steering is easy to maneuver. The brush-roll has a tangle-free design and collected both cat fur and my own long hair with ease.

It was impressive seeing how much dirt and dust got collected in the dustbin. Pet dander and hair collected around the filter, rather than clogging it or wrapping around the cylinder. The dustbin has a smaller capacity, so I did need to empty it before I moved on to using the handheld vacuum, but this is pretty typical for a cordless stick model.

One of the best features on the main vacuum is the headlights. They were incredibly bright and brought attention to plenty of left-behind hair and debris that I couldn’t see at first glance. The same goes for the FurGuard pet attachment. I love that this tool also has headlights because they helped me efficiently clean couch cushions, a cat tree, and dining chair cushions without leaving any debris behind.

Another element of the FurGuard that appealed to me was its self-standing design, which meant I didn’t have to bother putting it back on its mount when I was pausing in between cleans or setting the vacuum aside to charge.

As with most cordless stick vacuums, there isn’t anywhere to store the additional attachments (one of the things I dislike the most about this style). But even so, they’re so useful that I don’t mind making an additional trip to my storage closet to grab the attachment I need.

Final Thoughts

I honestly didn’t expect features like self-standing capability and headlights to matter to me, but they made a big difference during my cleaning sessions. The LED headlights on both the vacuum’s floor head and pet hair tool illuminate dirt that I would normally miss, and they shine plenty of light into hidden spaces like corners and under furniture.

I love that I don’t have to set the vacuum down or mount it when I need it out of the way while moving pillows and cords. Suction power is strong on all surface types, picking up plenty of hair and debris along the way. It’s not going to necessarily replace my upright vacuum, but the FurGuard may have just earned a permanent spot in my cleaning collection.