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Expert Rating

96

If the back and forth of a heavy vacuum is hard on your back, then the best vacuum for elderly users is quite possibly the Shark Rocket HV301. Not only does it have a long power cord, but this best stick vacuum corded model also has swivel steering that moves the vacuum head with just an incredibly light flick of your wrist. For more great product recommendations, visit our best vacuum cleaner list.

Why We Like It – Shark Rocket HV301

While a bit weightier than its competitors, the Shark Rocket HV301 has swivel steering to make your job of vacuuming that much easier, in addition to a long power cord to reduce looking for nearby AC outlets.

Pros
  • Swivel steering is a breeze
  • Long power cord
  • Wall mount for easy storage
Cons
  • Lightweight, but pushing its limits

Power, Speed & Efficiency

You can do a lot with 500 watts of powerful suction, and that’s exactly what you get from the Shark Rocket HV301. That’s leagues more than what you get from a small vacuum, like the iRobot Roomba 675, so picking up pet hair and dirt is a cinch on carpet and bare floors. But power isn’t everything—the swivel steering makes said cleaning that much easier by quickly turning with a slight flick of your wrist, unlike the bulky Oreck Commercial Upright XL2100. Then go above ground with both the crevice tool and dusting brush. The best cordless vacuum for pet hair is similar in performance to this great model, but the only difference is that the HV301 uses a power cord.

Related: Visit our Shark Rocket Corded Ultra-Light review for another great household cleaner

Bin Capacity

Bin capacity is a bit small at just 0.42 quarts, but that’s to be expected from stick vacuums. For example, the Dyson Cyclone V10 Motorhead Cordless Vacuum is just 0.56 quarts, and that’s arguably the superior stick vacuum.

Maintenance & Durability

To maintain the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Stick Vacuum, all you have to do is clean the dirt cup now and again. It doesn’t use a bag, so no worries about disposal. And storage is easy with its bundled wall mounting. Durability is average; it’s made mostly of plastic. It’s still lightweight at 7.6 lbs, but for an elderly individual that’s pushing the boundaries. Since this isn’t the most durable vacuum, consider getting coverage for it through the best insurance for homeowners.

Related: Check out our Shark Rocket Stick vacuum review

Value

The Shark Rocket HV301 is worth picking up for one main reason: convenience. It hits most of the notes you’d want out of a lightweight vacuum cleaner, such as slim design and wall mounting for easy storage, top to bottom cleaning, and it’s affordable! Buying one only sets you back $100, and you save forgoing bags.

Shark Rocket HV301 Wrap Up

If you can handle 8 lbs, then the Shark Rocket HV301 is for you. Its swivel steering is so hard to pass on otherwise. It makes vacuuming such a breeze simply because you don’t have to put in a lot of work to get it moving. That’s invaluable to an elderly individual, for sure. And it’s mountable for easy storage.