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The 6 Best Vacuums For Allergies To Get Rid Of Dust, Pollen And Dander
Anyone with allergies knows that vacuuming isn't just about keeping floors clean. The wrong model can send dust and dander right back into the air, making symptoms worse instead of better. The best vacuums for allergies are designed to prevent that, and we've found the Sebo Felix Premium does it best. With a hospital-grade HEPA filter, a fully sealed system and a bagged design, it captures allergens at every stage instead of letting them escape. If you prefer a cordless model, the Dyson V15 Detect makes it easy to spot dust you'd otherwise miss, while the iRobot Roomba j7+ cleans automatically and empties on its own to minimize allergens.
The best vacuums for allergies trap dust, dander, pet hair and other allergy-inducing debris.
Illustration: Forbes / Image: RetailersNo matter what type of vacuum you choose, there are a few main features that make the biggest difference when it comes to allergens. "Filtration should be the top priority," says mold and air quality expert Michael Rubino. "The goal is to reduce as many particles from the home as possible so that allergy sufferers don't continually breathe them in." A closed system is also "key," he adds: "You want to ensure all the particles remain in the vacuum instead of blowing right back into the home." To help you find the right one, we've rounded up the best vacuums for allergies based on extensive research, expert recommendations and our own first-hand experience.
Style: UprightWeight: 15.4 lbsBag capacity: 0.92 galCord length: 31 ftFiltration: S-Class (HEPA Equivalent), AeraPure bagAttachments: Crevice tool, dusting brush, parquet brush
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When you're dealing with allergies, Rubino typically recommends bagged vacuums because they "ensure that no particles are released back into the home when the canister is emptied." The Sebo Felix Premium is designed with that in mind, using a three-layer AeraPure bag that locks in dust and a hygiene cap that seals it off when you toss it. It also has an S-Class exhaust microfilter, which meets HEPA standards by capturing 99.9% of fine particles down to 0.3 microns. Since the vacuum is fully sealed, allergens don't leak back into the air through gaps in the machine—something that tends to be a common issue with lower-end models.
The swivel head makes it easy to steer, so you're not constantly adjusting your angle to get around furniture. You also don't have to swap attachments when moving between carpets and hard floors, as the main brush head works on both, and you can turn off the spinning brush roll when needed. The detachable hose and adjustable handle height give it more reach, making it easier to clean stairs and other tight spaces without dragging the whole vacuum with you.
One thing to note: The Felix runs warmer than some other vacuums, which is common for high-powered bagged models. But it's built to last and comes with a 10-year extended warranty, so it's an investment you can rely on. Happy reviewers also say that Sebo's customer service is among the best in the industry and reasonably priced replacement parts are readily available if needed. And unlike most high-performance vacuums, this model actually looks good. It's available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it one of the few models you won't mind leaving out in the open.
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Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe
Style: Bagless uprightWeight: 15.9 lbsBin volume: 0.9 quartsCord length: 25 ftFiltration: HEPA plus Anti-Allergen Complete SealAccessories: Upholstery tool, crevice tool
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For an allergy-friendly vacuum at a lower price, we regularly recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe. Unlike many budget models, it doesn't just rely on a HEPA filter—it has a fully sealed system to keep fine dust and dander from escaping.
It's also easier to handle than a typical upright. The lift-away canister detaches from the base, eliminating the need to maneuver the entire vacuum when cleaning furniture or other hard-to-reach places. (That said, it's worth noting that this model's swivel steering already helps it move more like a stick vacuum.) "I also appreciate that it's easy to open and dump out the canister without spilling," says Forbes Vetted's baby & kids gear editor Margaret Badore, who loves how effectively the Shark rids her home of cat hair.
While you can't adjust the height for different carpets, its strong suction makes up for it. It easily gets fine dust and pet hair out of rugs, and there's an option to switch off the brush roll to clean hard floors without scattering debris. The washable filters also help capture lingering allergens, so you're not reintroducing them every time you vacuum.
Style: Cordless stickWeight: 6.8 lbsRun time: Up to 60 minutesBin volume: 0.2 gallonsFiltration: Fully sealed HEPA systemAccessories: Anti-tangle laser brush heads, hair screw tool, crevice tool, charging dock
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Cordless vacuums aren't usually the best choice for allergy sufferers because many lack the suction and filtration needed to contain fine dust and dander. The Dyson V15 Detect is an exception. It has a fully sealed filtration system that traps 99.99% of microscopic particles, so allergens don't escape back into the air while you clean. The vacuum also adjusts its suction power automatically based on the amount of debris, making deep cleaning easier without requiring extra effort. And it even shows you the results in real time: "The digital display on the vacuum shows the volume of particulate matter that has been sucked up from your environment after you use it," says Brinda Ayer, editorial director of Forbes Vetted, who uses her Dyson weekly.
Beyond filtration, one of its most useful features is the laser-equipped hardwood cleaning head, which Ayer calls a "game-changer." It shines a green laser light in the vacuum's path that illuminates the floor and makes it easy to see grime you might otherwise miss. And because the vacuum weighs under seven pounds, it's easy to steer into corners and under furniture where allergens tend to accumulate.
The V15 Detect also comes with a second brush head for carpets, plus attachments for upholstery, pet hair and fine dust. Since it converts into a handheld vacuum, you can also use it to suck up dust and other allergens along bookshelves, baseboards and even car interiors without dragging out a heavier machine.
Style: Bagged canisterWeight: 16.1 lbsBag capacity: 0.92 gallonsCord Length: 36 ftFiltration: HEPA Lifetime FilterAccessories: Turbo Brush floorhead, Parquet Twister floorhead, dusting brush, upholstery nozzle, crevice tool
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Canister vacuums can be bulkier than uprights, but they also offer strong suction and better reach—features that make them a great choice for allergy sufferers who need to clean multiple surfaces. The Miele Complete C3 Calima is consistently one of our top-recommended canister vacuums because of its powerful filtration and easy maneuverability. This model's bagged design, combined with a self-sealing system, adds another layer of protection by keeping dust contained, so you're not exposed to particles when swapping it out. And unlike some canister models that feel clunky to pull around, this one glides around smoothly on rubber wheels.
Since allergens settle on more than just carpets, the C3 Calima includes two floorheads to tackle different surfaces. The Turbo Brush gets deep into rugs and low-pile carpets to lift dust and pet hair, while the Parquet Twister cleans hard floors without scratching wood or tile. This vacuum's HEPA Lifetime Filter captures 99.999% of fine dust and allergens, and it's designed to last; you can typically go up to two months before replacing the bag. Notably, suction strength is adjustable on this model: It can be lowered for delicate rugs or turned up for deep cleaning. Foot-pedal controls let you switch settings without bending over, while the extra-long cord and flexible hose give you more reach without having to stop and find a new outlet.
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iRobot Roomba j7+
Style: Robot vacuumWeight: 7.5 lbsBin capacity: 0.3 liters (robot), 2.4 liters (base)Filtration: High-efficiency filterFeatures: Self-emptying base, smart mapping, obstacle detection, dirt and cliff sensors
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Robot vacuums aren't a replacement for deep cleaning, but they can help allergy sufferers keep dust and dander under control on a daily basis. "If they have a HEPA filter, these can be a good strategy to implement in between regular vacuuming," says Rubino. While the iRobot Roomba j7+ doesn't have a HEPA filter, its high-efficiency filtration system still captures 99% of pet dander, pollen and dust mites. (The j7+ was chosen as Vetted's best robot vacuum for pet hair for that very reason.)
Unlike basic robot vacuums that move randomly, the j7+ maps your home and learns high-traffic areas where dust and allergens tend to build up. This model can be programmed to target specific rooms or run more frequently in spaces that need extra attention. It also has dual multi-surface brush rolls that prevent hair from tangling and keep debris moving efficiently into the bin without clogging. And because this device detects and avoids obstacles like pet waste, cords and other small objects, it's less likely to get stuck mid-cycle.
If you pair the j7+ with an affordable standard vacuum like the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, it can help cut down on daily dust and dander while reserving the deeper cleanings for when they're really needed. And with a self-emptying, sealed base that holds up to 60 days' worth of debris, you'll have even fewer interactions with allergens. We found during testing that the base can be on the louder side when emptying, but since the vacuum can be scheduled to run when you're out, it's easy to work around.
Style: Bagged canisterWeight: 19.4 lbsBag capacity: 4.8 quartsCord length: 24 feetFiltration: HEPA AirClean systemAttachments: Electrobrush, Parquet Twister floorhead, dusting brush, upholstery nozzle, crevice tool
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If you're looking for the absolute best canister vacuum for allergies—and price isn't a concern—the Miele Complete C3 Marin is in a league of its own. At over $1,300, it's a serious investment, but it offers the highest level of filtration, suction and convenience of any vacuum on this list. Its HEPA AirClean filtration system is designed to trap microscopic allergens rather than releasing them back into the air, and because dust and debris go straight into a self-sealing bag, you don't have to worry about exposure when it's time to replace it.
Unlike basic canister vacuums, the Marin automatically adjusts suction power as it moves across different surfaces, so you don't have to stop and tweak settings while you clean. Its Electrobrush digs deep into carpet fibers to remove ground-in dust and pet hair, while the Parquet Twister head makes it easier to maneuver on wood and tile. It also has foot pedal controls to adjust settings without bending over and an ergonomic handle for easier maneuvering—small conveniences that make a noticeable difference when cleaning an entire home.
The biggest consideration is price, but for those with severe allergies, the Marin is designed to minimize exposure at every step. If you like the sealed filtration system but don't need quite as much power, the Miele Complete C3 Calima is a more affordable alternative.
Why Trust Forbes VettedWe've spent years testing and reviewing cleaning products to help readers find the best options for their homes. Our team has vetted dozens of vacuums and other devices to make dealing with allergies easier, covering everything from the best vacuums for pet hair to the best air purifiers for allergies.
To identify the best vacuums for allergies, we researched and compared a range of models, looking at filtration systems, suction power and real-world usability. Some vacuums have been rigorously tested by our editors, while others come highly recommended by trusted experts.
No matter what style of vacuum you prefer, certain features make a bigger difference when it comes to reducing allergens in your home. Here's what to keep in mind as you shop.
HEPA FiltersA strong filtration system is key to trapping allergens instead of releasing them back into the air. A true HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filter captures at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust mites, pollen and pet dander. "Opt for HEPA, because lackluster filters will allow particles to recirculate back into the environment and continue triggering allergies," says Rubino. Some vacuums also feature multi-stage filtration, which adds additional layers to trap even finer particles.
Sealed SystemsFiltration only works if the vacuum is designed to keep particles contained. A sealed system prevents allergens from leaking through gaps in the machine's body, so that dust and debris stay trapped inside. "You want to ensure all the particles remain in the vacuum instead of blowing right back into the home," Rubino explains. Some brands have their own terminology for this—Shark calls it an "anti-allergen complete seal," while Dyson refers to "whole-machine HEPA filtration"—but the concept remains the same.
Bagged Vs. BaglessBagged vacuums are often the best choice for allergy sufferers because they minimize exposure to dust. "They ensure that no particles are released back into the home when the canister is emptied," says Rubino. The tradeoff is the added cost of replacement bags, but for many, the cleaner and easier disposal is worth it.
Bagless models, on the other hand, don't require bags but can be messier to empty. If you go this route, consider emptying the bin outside and directly into a trash bag to avoid kicking allergens back into the air. Some models also feature self-sealing dust bins or self-emptying bases, which help reduce direct contact with allergy-causing debris.
MaintenanceRegular maintenance helps a vacuum perform at its best, especially for allergy sufferers. A full bag or clogged filter can weaken suction and let dust escape. HEPA filters, in particular, need to be replaced or cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions; some are washable, while others need to be replaced every few months. "If it's full, it won't be able to clean surfaces as well," Rubino says. Staying on top of maintenance ensures the vacuum continues to trap allergens rather than spreading them around.
Spring Cleaning 101: Expert Tips To Breathe Easier, Keep Allergies At Bay
While it may not feel like spring right now with the snow, freezing rain and cold, rest assured — the warmth is coming.
After a long, hard winter that included bouts of illness for many, spring is a great time to reset. One of the best things a person can do is deep clean, which can kick-start the season on the right foot.
Just ask allergy and asthma specialist Dr. Martin Dubravec.
With the return of a more typical winter, Dubravec said many people were hit hard with seasonal ailments, including the flu. But spring is a good time to get your home — and yourself — healthier.
When it comes to cleaning, Dubravec said spring is the perfect time to shore up areas of your home where moisture gets in. While flooding in low-lying areas is common, there isn't much that can be done to prevent it.
However, using dehumidifiers can help stop dust mite and mold growth.
"Humidity over 40% favors dust mite growth, and above 60% favors mold growth. The ideal humidity is between 30 and 40%," he said.
In addition to using dehumidifiers, Dubravec said checking for leaks in walls, floors and ceilings is also advisable. During winter, those issues may subside, but once things warm up, they can worsen.
For those who suffer from seasonal allergies, Dubravec said cleaning up the outside of your home can also make a big difference.
Clearing fallen leaves from last fall before it gets warm can help prevent mold growth. He also noted that wind-pollinated plants, like pine trees, produce more pollen than insect-pollinated plants. In spring, trees are the primary source of pollen, followed by grasses in summer and weeds in fall. While there are exceptions, that is the typical pollen cycle.
Finally, Dubravec said that if medication doesn't control allergy symptoms, it may be time to see a doctor — especially if you experience difficulty breathing. If symptoms are accompanied by a fever, he said it's likely an infection, not just seasonal allergies.
"If you are prone to allergy symptoms, start your medication now so it's in your system before pollen exposure," he said.
Expert Tips for Spring Cleaning
Servpro Restoration Manager David Ragsdale also shared professional spring cleaning tips.
Like Dubravec, Ragsdale said a dry home is a healthy home, so controlling humidity and eliminating water intrusions should be priority No. 1.
Most homes in the U.S. Have thermostatically controlled forced air heating and cooling systems, and many thermostats include a humidistat. If the system can't maintain proper humidity levels, Ragsdale said homeowners should contact an HVAC professional for evaluation and servicing.
"For homes without built-in humidity control, a hygrometer and a standalone dehumidifier can help," he said. "Both can be purchased from most home improvement retailers."
Ragsdale also advised maintaining gutters and downspouts to keep indoor air clean.
Gutters should be free of leaves and sticks, and downspouts should drain water away from the home to prevent pooling near the foundation. For homes with crawl spaces, he recommended installing a vapor barrier — typically 6-mil polyethylene — to cover all exposed soil.
Additionally, HVAC system drain pans should be kept clear of debris, and drain lines can be blown out with compressed air to prevent blockages.
A thorough home inspection is also essential, Ragsdale said. Homeowners should check for bubbled or blistered paint, displaced or broken roof coverings, staining around eaves and leaking plumbing fixtures
Dust and Deep Cleaning
According to Ragsdale, dust and dust mites are the No. 1 allergens in homes, with pet dander coming in a close second.
Spring is a great time to deep clean often-overlooked areas, he said. Vacuuming is key, but dirty vacuums can make things worse. He recommended cleaning or replacing vacuum filters, emptying and cleaning vacuum collection containers, and installing a new vacuum bag, if applicable.
Other spring cleaning tasks include cleaning kitchen exhaust fans/hoods and replacing filters; dusting light fixtures and ceiling fans; removing and cleaning recessed light bulbs and fixtures; and vacuuming and wiping down window tracks, trim, and hidden areas behind furniture
For HVAC maintenance, Ragsdale said to replace all HVAC return filters; vacuum the return filter cavity and clean the return grill; remove and clean supply registers; and vacuum accessible areas of supply ducts.
Many plastic and metal air registers can even be washed in the dishwasher, he added.
• Experts emphasize spring cleaning as a key step to reducing allergens and improving home air quality, including using dehumidifiers, checking for leaks, and deep cleaning dust-prone areas. • Proper home maintenance — such as clearing gutters, monitoring humidity, and servicing HVAC systems — can help prevent mold growth and seasonal allergy flare-ups.
Rainy Days On The Way: See St. Joseph County's Weekend Forecast Here
St. Joseph County can expect a chance of rain this weekend, with temperatures forecast at a range of 32 to 73 degrees, according to data from AccuWeather.
You can search for more information on hourly, daily, monthly weather forecasts and current air quality conditions for your location at here.
Need help deciding whether to cozy up inside or plan a trip out of the house this weekend?
Here's a breakdown of the weekend forecast for St. Joseph County.
Friday weather in St. Joseph County: Rain showers possibleFriday is forecast to have a high of 72 degrees with a low of 56 degrees and clear, breezy and mild at night. Expect the daytime temperature to feel three degrees cooler at 69 degrees.
There will be moderate rain during the day, with about less than an inch of rain expected.
Throughout the day, wind will be blowing south southwest at 15 miles per hour.
Is Friday's forecast typical for this time of year?Friday's forecast high is above average for this time of year. The 30-year average maximum temperature for March 28 is 52 degrees. This internationally agreed-upon average represents climate data from 1991-2020 and is recalculated every 10 years.
The forecast low is 26 degrees hotter than the established normal of 30 degrees for this time of year. Historically, this day is usually a bit wet, with an average 0.08 inches of precipitation.
What if you have sensitivities to dust and hair frizziness?Dust and dander: Indoor dust and dander levels will be high. Actions to control indoor dust and dander are recommended.
Hair frizz: Some frizz is possible, especially for people with naturally curly or wavy hair.
Saturday is forecast to have a high of 68 degrees with a low of 54 degrees and cloudy with a few showers. Expect the daytime temperature to feel two degrees cooler at 66 degrees.
There will be light rain during the day, with about less than an inch of rain expected.
Throughout the day, wind will be blowing southwest at 15 miles per hour.
Is Saturday's forecast typical for this time of year?Saturday's forecast high is above average for this time of year. The 30-year average maximum temperature for March 29 is 52 degrees.
The forecast low is 24 degrees hotter than the established normal of 30 degrees for this time of year. Historically, this day is usually a bit wet, with an average 0.08 inches of precipitation.
What if you have sensitivities to dust and hair frizziness?Dust and dander: Indoor dust and dander levels will be low.
Hair frizz: Light frizz and flyaway hair are possible for frizz-prone hair.
Sunday is forecast to have a high of 65 degrees with a low of 40 degrees, with heavy rain and a thunderstorm at night. Expect the daytime temperature to feel two degrees cooler at 63 degrees.
There will be heavy rain during the day, with about less than an inch of rain and zero inches of snow expected.
Throughout the day, wind will be blowing south southwest at 9.2 miles per hour.
Is Sunday's forecast typical for this time of year?Sunday's forecast high is above average for this time of year. The 30-year average maximum temperature for March 30 is 52 degrees.
The forecast low is nine degrees hotter than the established normal of 31 degrees for this time of year. Historically, this day is usually a bit wet, with an average 0.08 inches of precipitation.
What if you have sensitivities to dust and hair frizziness?Dust and dander: Indoor dust and dander levels will be low.
Hair frizz: Some frizz is possible, especially for people with naturally curly or wavy hair.
Monday is forecast to have a high of 44 degrees with a low of 27 degrees and clearing at night. Expect the daytime temperature to feel seven degrees cooler at 37 degrees.
There will be light rain during the day, with about less than an inch of rain expected.
Throughout the day, wind will be blowing northwest at 11.5 miles per hour.
Is Monday's forecast typical for this time of year?Monday's forecast high is below average for this time of year. The 30-year average maximum temperature for March 31 is 53 degrees.
The forecast low is four degrees cooler than the established normal of 31 degrees for this time of year. Historically, this day is usually a bit wet, with an average 0.09 inches of precipitation.
What if you have sensitivities to dust and hair frizziness?Dust and dander: Indoor dust and dander levels will be low.
Hair frizz: Some frizz is possible, especially for people with naturally curly or wavy hair.
In Michigan, daily weather forecasts can be unreliable at times due to the volatile nature of Lake Effect—cold air passing over warm water that causes extreme low or high temperatures—and lack of weather-measuring coverage in the state, according to Dr. Jeffrey Andresen, the State Climatologist for Michigan.
The USA TODAY Network is publishing localized versions of this story on its news sites across Michigan, generated with data from AccuWeather. Please leave any feedback or corrections for this story here. This story was written by Ozge Terzioglu. Our News Automation and AI team would like to hear from you. Take this survey and share your thoughts with us.
This article originally appeared on Sturgis Journal: Rainy days on the way: See St. Joseph County forecast for March 28-31
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