01 May
Blog

Shark Vacmop Review: A Swiffer Sweeper on Steroids

Shark Vacmop Lights

"The Shark Vacmop takes everything I love about the popular Swiffer Sweeper and adds suction to better collect debris on the floor."

  • Sweep and wipe lightly at the same time

  • No uncomplicated disposal with pads

  • Decent intake performance

Shark's robotic vacuum cleaners are characterized by a balanced relationship between performance and price. While the cordless vacuum line is available from a variety of options, only one is particularly suitable for both picking up dirt from hard floors and cleaning up spilled material.

The Shark Vacmop uses the Swiffer Sweeper approach by acting as a dry sweeper and mop at the same time, saving you the hassle of needing two separate cleaners. You may be wondering if there are any compromises with a 2-in-1 device like this one. So I went through some good cleaning scenarios to find out.

From the sweeper to the mop

Arguably the most compelling feature of the Shark Vacmop is its ability to sweep and then mop with minimal effort. With your traditional Swiffer Sweeper, you need to discard the dry pad and then replace it with a wet one to make the transition possible. There's none of this with the Vacmop that makes it particularly versatile when it comes to cleaning up different types of dirt.

Shark Vacmop on the wallJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The disposable pillow is effectively used for both sweeping and mopping as there is a small corner that soaks up dirt on the floor and stows everything in the pillow itself. The suction is adequate for most tasks, but I was surprised how it can still suck up dirt if the pad gets wet while wiping. I really appreciate the convenience of sweeping and mopping at the same time because it saves time.

There is a bit of resistance when pushing and pulling the 5 pound shark vacuum cleaner, however. It doesn't have the same level of effortless movement as a Swiffer Sweeper. Sure, the head can be hinged the same way a Swiffer can pivot to collect dirt and debris, but the drag makes it a little more difficult to maneuver.

Additional costs for disposable pads

Much like a Swiffer sweeper, the Shark Vacmop requires you to purchase disposable pads that need to be replaced as soon as they become dirty or filled with dirt. Removing the pad is a breeze, accomplished by pressing a button on the side of the head. The device unlocks the disposable pillow. All you really have to do is place it over a garbage can that it can be dropped into.

Shark Vacmop PadJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

While this makes it very convenient, you have to keep in mind that the Shark Vacmop will not work without the disposable pad. You also need to keep in mind that there is an ongoing cost to owning the Vacmop: about $ 24 for a 30-point refill of disposable pads. For comparison, a 40-pack of Swiffer Sweeper dry-sweeping wipes costs around $ 13 – so you pay significantly more for the Vacmop.

I really appreciate the convenience of sweeping and mopping at the same time.

There's also the multi-surface liquid cleaner that you need to buy if you want to mop your hard floors. It's $ 10 for a two-liter bottle that is then poured into the vacmop. Since the device is battery-operated, the liquid multi-surface cleaner is dispensed by pressing the button on the handle. I actually like how it dries out quickly on my wooden floors without leaving streaks. It is worth noting, however, that it is not a disinfectant solution. If you choose any other solution, all you need to know is that there is a risk of damage to the device.

You can cut your expenses by limiting the frequency of cleaning. However, don't be fooled by focusing solely on the $ 100 initial cost.

Short battery life

If you have a lot of space to sweep and mop, you should look for another solution as the Shark Vacmop has a 13 minute battery life. This is really short, which means it's best reserved for the clutter on site. While it is still possible to clean larger rooms, you will need to take breaks so that you can charge the Vacmop with the included magnetic charger.

Shark Vacmop magnetic connectorJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

I've mainly used the Shark Vacmop after dinner to remove any crumbs that are collecting on the floor. Since I don't sweep and mop the kitchen area for more than five minutes, the short battery life isn't an issue for me, but I can see how it can be a limiting factor for others.

Finally, I just want to point out that the package does not contain any other attachments. So don't expect to find a crevice or a brush tool.

Our opinion

Shark's take on the Swiffer Sweeper is interesting. There's no denying the fact that steroids are a Swiffer as it takes everything I love about the popular street sweeper and adds suction to better collect dirt on the floor – while also being able to switch to a mopper without having to remove the pad.

The $ 100 startup cost isn't bad, but consider the added cost of purchasing the disposable pads and the multi-surface cleaner.

How long it will take?

The Vacmop is made of robust plastic materials and offers a robust quality. In fact, it fell over several times with no signs of damage. There is a one-year limited warranty in case something goes wrong internally due to a defect.

Is there a better alternative?

The Dyson Omni-Glide is characterized by its lightweight construction, effortless movement and stronger suction power as a superior sweeper. Sure, it's significantly more expensive at $ 400, but that's the only money you'll need for it.

Should you buy it?

Yes. It's inexpensive and there are few models that can sweep and mop at the same time.

Editor's recommendations




25 Apr
Blog

Dyson Omni-Glide Review: You May Want to Ditch Your Swiffer

Dyson Omni-Glide cordless vacuum test articulation brush

"The most fun you will have since the Swiffer was invented scooping up debris on hard floors."

  • Compact design

  • The swivel head ensures effortless sweeping

  • Can get under most furniture

  • Good suction for its size

  • Shorter battery life

  • Comes with few accessories

Dyson is back with another new cordless vacuum cleaner. While it may seem like a never-ending cycle, this latest one is actually something else. Yes, it's an upright cordless vacuum, but it's specially designed for hard floors. That makes it more of a specialty cleaner than the all-purpose models the company is known for.

The Dyson Omni-Glide is one of three new models the company is introducing this year. As it stands, the Omni-Glide is positioned as a permanent replacement for the tried and tested Swiffer. At a whopping $ 400, however, it takes really serious substance to convince people to let go of their beloved sweeper.

Iconic Dyson design

Dyson's designs are iconic and as instantly recognizable as Apple and its iPhones. The Omni-Glide does not differ from other newer offerings like the mighty Dyson V11 series by the turbine-like shape, which makes Dyson's vacuum cleaner so naturally distinguishable. It also helps that it has the same bright purple and red accents that give its look a more approachable look.

Most notable here is how light and compact it is over previous Dysons. When you tip the scales to 4.18 pounds, the 6.68 pound weight of the V11 Torque Drive feels heavy in the hand – trust me, it'll catch your eye! This makes pushing the Omni-Glide around a breeze, while vacuuming up dirt from high spots with the splitting tool is also an almost effortless process.

Dyson Omni-Glide Cordless Vacuum Review at high tideJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

If there is one persistent complaint I have about Dyson's cordless vacuum cleaners, it must be that you have to wall mount all of the included chargers. Again, with the Omni-Glide, it is no exception, and it is only a pain that it takes to do so. I'd rather have a standalone, free-standing base, similar to the LG CordZero A9 or Samsung Jet 90, both of which come with charging stations in the box that house some of the included accessories. Unfortunately, the splitting tool with the Omni-Glide requires a home of its own because there is no built-in storage space when it is not in use.

A swiffer with a permanent pad

With its omnidirectional Soft Roller Cleaner head, the Omni-Glide acts effectively like your traditional Swiffer sweeper without the need to purchase replacement pads. Instead, the soft roller gently combs hard floors while the vacuum is used. And since it sits on a poseable neck, there is no wrong way to move it around floors, furniture, edges and corners. The Omni-Glide is actually a lot of fun vacuuming because the articulation is so smooth – you can even move it back and forth without affecting the speed of the soft brush.

Dyson Omni-Glide cordless vacuum test articulation brushJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The advantage over a traditional Swiffer is, of course, that you don't have to constantly buy replacement pads. The soft roller cleaner head neatly collects small bits of dirt and debris, but I've found that large clumps of material or pet hair can be a challenge to pick up. Although there are few tangles visible on the rollers, I have found that hair can still collect on the ends. Fortunately, there is a latch on the roller head that makes it easy to remove the rollers, making it easier to access the ends where hair is piling up. I also appreciate how it can get into tight spaces, including under furniture.

The suction power of the eight radial cone system is not quite as high as that of the V11 torque driveThat's what I expected, as nothing has yet to outperform this model, but the Omni-Glide is still a sufficient cleaner for quick on-site mess.

Only for light daily cleaning

Because of its size and lightweight feel, the Omni-Glide doesn't have nearly as long battery life as some of the more complete, all-purpose cordless vacuums. In fact, the battery is designed to last up to 20 minutes before discharging and must be returned to the charging station. You can swap out the lithium-ion battery for another for continuous use, but a replacement costs a staggering $ 150.

The Omni-Glide is actually a lot of fun vacuuming.

Another reason it's not intended for heavy-duty cleaning is because of the 0.05 gallon dust bin, which is far smaller than other cordless vacuums. This small volume requires frequent emptying. Speaking of which, I'm happy to say that you don't have to worry too much about blowing dust back when emptying the container, as pressing the latch will safely eject the container's contents.

For the cost, it would have been really nice to get more specialized accessories with the Omni-Glide. The included splitting tool is cleverly designed – the brush attachment can be easily attached over the splitting tool – but you don't get anything else. I would have liked additional attachments that could help mop floors, or even some other type of roller to clean furniture, but you only get the combined splitting tool in the box.

Dyson Omni-Glide Battery Vacuum ReviewJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Considering the short battery life, small dust bin, and few accessories that are most effective for daily cleaning. It's the kind of thing best for everyday after-dinner use just because it's not intended for heavy, once-a-month chores.

Our opinion

In true Dyson fashion, the cost of the Omni-Glide will probably be the most challenging quality. The $ 400 price tag will surely make anyone hesitate to buy it, especially given the fact that you can get a Swiffer road sweeper kit for less than $ 20. That's a big gap, but the Omni-Glide's advantage is that it can collect larger and heavier debris than a Swiffer. It also functions as a handy handheld due to its compact design.

How long it will take?

Like all Dysons, the Omni-Glide is characterized by a robust build quality, although it is mainly made of robust plastic. I dropped it a couple of times and there is no indication of a performance compromise. It comes with a two year limited warranty that covers defects.

Is there a better alternative?

Absolutely! The Dyson V11 series performs much better and comes with more accessories. This makes them a far more versatile package – if you're willing to spend a few hundred more. If cost is a primary concern, that is Samsung Jet 90 and LG CordZero A9 are both wonderful solutions.

Should you buy it?

Yes, only if you live in a place that's mostly filled with hard floors and don't want the hassle of buying disposable pads.

Editor's recommendations