The 8 Top Backpack Vacuum Cleaners for Commercial Cleaning 

Efficiency is essential for cleaning businesses. Equipment like backpack vacuum cleaners can be valuable for commercial cleaning companies, because they can offer quality results quickly. 

The International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA) is a professional organization for cleaning services. ISSA highlights three areas that can impact commercial cleaning businesses: ergonomics, efficiency, and productivity. 

Ergonomics focuses on equipment that allows cleaners to work comfortably and quickly. Productivity is about getting the most quality for the time and effort spent on the task. And efficiency involves getting high-quality results in the least amount of time. 

Backpack vacuum cleaners can offer all of these traits. They are portable, comfortable, and flexible. They don’t have the limitations of wheeled vacuums; they’re lighter and easier to maneuver. 

In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of backpack vacuums for commercial cleaning. Then, we’ll explain the different factors that might affect your choice of vacuum. You’ll learn about the top models for commercial cleaning. And finally, we’ll end with tips to help you start your research right now. 

Do You Need a Backpack Vacuum Cleaner for Your Commercial Cleaning Business? 

Commercial cleaning businesses need a variety of tools. The right equipment can make a big difference in efficiency and quality. For instance, a backpack vacuum will clean stairs much faster than a wheeled vacuum. The portable model will also clean in tight spaces and corners. You can reach every corner and crevice and do a more thorough job. 

Of course, other vacuum types might be better for certain types of cleaning jobs. Here is a look at the different models you might want in your equipment inventory. 

• Upright vacuum cleaners contain a motor and bag in a single unit. They ride on wheels and can cover flat, open areas quickly. 
• Canister vacuums have a separate hose and a body with a motor and bag. The hose makes it easy to reach into corners and crevices. 
• Backpack vacuum cleaners have a motor and dust container. These are worn on the cleaner’s back. A handheld hose performs the suction. 
• Riding vacuums are meant to cover large areas quickly. The user drives them like a tractor. They are typically more expensive because they also have a motor for driving as well as vacuum components. 
• Wet/dry cleaners can vacuum liquids as well as dry material. They work well in industrial environments. 

A backpack vacuum cleaner will be the best choice for certain jobs. And the different attachments and mobility make it versatile enough to handle different tasks with ease. 

Benefits of Backpack Vacuum Cleaners 

Here are the benefits you can enjoy with a commercial backpack vacuum. 

• Mobility: Users can move freely without having to steer a wheeled vacuum. You can also use this vacuum to reach walls and ceilings. And you can use them to clean vents and fixtures above the ground. 
• Safety: Cleaners can have a free hand to hold railings. They can balance more easily while cleaning. 
• Flexibility: These vacuums often have different attachments. These options can handle specialized jobs. For instance, one attachment might work well for carpets. Another could be ideal for hardwood floors. Some hoses can even work for vents or ceilings. 
• User comfort: Backpack vacuums are often lightweight. They have features like padded straps. You can also adjust the harness for a comfortable fit. 
• Productivity: You can cover different areas quickly. And the vacuum can handle different surfaces and environments. You only have to pause briefly to change attachments before moving to the next job. 

These advantages make backpack vacuums an excellent addition to your cleaning arsenal. But you need to choose a model with features you and your cleaning team need. 

Key Considerations When Selecting a Backpack Vacuum Cleaner 

Backpack vacuum cleaners are effective in many environments. However, the models can be very different from one another. You need to compare features and components to select the right vacuum. 

• Suction power: Consider the cleaning tasks you’ll tackle most often. Heavier carpets or deep cleaning require strong suction. Also, you can look for vacuums with adjustable suction power. This can offer more versatility and help you achieve efficient electricity or battery usage. 
• Filtration systems: Look at the vacuum’s filtration system. Do you need to capture small dust particles and allergens? If you do, look for models with HEPA filters or multi-stage filtration. These features will improve indoor air quality. Some clients may require cleaners to use these filters. 
• Weight and comfort: Find models that are comfortable for users. Adjustable harnesses are almost always a good option. Padded shoulder straps are likewise important for long-term use. Also, look at the weight of each model. Will your workers be able to carry it throughout the day? Verify the weight of “lightweight” vacuums to be sure they live up to that description. 
• Battery life: Cordless vacuums may have lithium-ion batteries. You will need to know how long these batteries last on a single charge. Also, you should consider how easy it is to replace a battery. You can potentially replace a spent battery with a charged one. Then, you can charge the used battery as you continue working. 
• Attachments: Look at the available attachments and assess their cost. Do they come with a vacuum? Or do you have to purchase them separately? Also, you should avoid spending money on attachments that you won’t ever use. Find a vacuum package that includes the attachments you use without too many extras. 
• Maintenance requirements: Assess how easy it is to maintain the vacuum. How easy is it to empty the bag or dustbin? Can you wash or change the filters quickly? Can you access the motor or roller to remove something that gets jammed inside? These features can reduce downtime. And they can keep you from losing time delivering replacement vacuums. 
• Cost and value: You should consider the cost of the vacuum. Obviously, it needs to be within your budget. But you should also consider the overall value. Will it allow you to complete jobs faster? Will it help you bid for jobs you would not be able to do otherwise? If the vacuum reduces employee hours and helps you get more work, it might be worth a bigger investment. 

You will find vacuums that meet most of your needs, but you may have to make minor compromises on some features. Consider which traits are most important to you and make them non-negotiable requirements for your chosen vacuum. 

The 8 Top Commercial Backpack Vacuum Cleaners 

We looked at commercial vacuum cleaners from different brands. We chose the best ones based on brand reputation and performance specifications. We also assessed reliability and versatility. The number of features and user comfort were also factored into our research. 

Of the dozens of vacuums we considered, these 8 stood out. 

Sanitaire TRANSPORT® Commercial Cordless Backpack Vacuum 

This battery-powered vacuum brings the flexibility of cordless operation. It comes with a 24-volt battery. There is also a backup battery, so you can switch when one runs out. Then, you can continue working as the other battery recharges. 

The vacuum can run for 70 minutes. That’s enough time for most moderate-sized jobs. 

The Sanitaire features an ergonomic design. It also comes with an adjustable handheld wand and three attachments. And it weighs in at a reasonable 14.6 pounds. 

Pros 

• A built-in HEPA filter ensures air quality. 
• Cordless operation offers flexibility for challenging jobs in tight spaces. 
• The 4-quart dust capacity allows you to finish the job before emptying. 

Cons 

• The battery makes the vacuum heavier than some lightweight corded models. 
• The 14-inch cleaning width isn’t ideal for large open spaces. 

The TRANSPORT® comes with a two-year warranty, providing some peace of mind for those who want to try a battery-powered vacuum. 

ProTeam Super Coach Pro® 10 

This high-capacity backpack vacuum can hold 10 quarts of dust. This allows you to work for extended periods without stopping to empty the bag. 

The harness is also built for comfort. It has articulating straps that fit the user’s body, offering a personalized fit regardless of body type. The woven straps allow airflow, keeping the body cool during long cleaning jobs. 

This ProTeam model has several attachments. These include a 14-inch floor and a telescoping wand. 

Pros 

• At 12.5 pounds, the vacuum is lightweight despite its capacity. 
• It comes with a three-year warranty. 
• The vacuum comes with state-of-the-art HEPA filters. 

Cons 

• The 50-foot cord limits movement in large rooms. 
• Additional attachments cost extra. 

The Super Coach Pro® is ideal for cleaning large rooms without stopping to empty the vacuum bag repeatedly. 

Makita XGT® Brushless Cordless 6 Quart Backpack Vacuum 

This powerful vacuum relies on lithium-ion batteries. It provides lengthy run times, and the dual-bay battery system allows easy switching between batteries. You also get a two-port charger to power up both batteries at once. 

This vacuum is excellent for jobs requiring air quality measures. It has a multi-stage HEPA filtration system. 

The XGT® comes with four power modes. These allow you to extend the runtime if you do not need full suction power. 

Pros 

• The vacuum’s filtration system captures 99.97% of particles. 
• A built-in LED light helps you see in dark corners. 
• The suction is powerful at 85 cubic feet of air per minute (CFM). 

Cons 

• The one-hour runtime may not be sufficient for larger jobs. 
• The vacuum weighs over 16 pounds with both batteries. 

Makita sells kits that include a charger, batteries, and attachments. 

Bissell BG1001 

This corded vacuum has plenty of suction power and comes from one of the most well-known brands in the industry. 

The 120 CFM of suction power can handle most commercial jobs. Despite its power, it is extremely lightweight, at 10.5 pounds. That makes it one of the lighter vacuums on our list. 

You also get a crush-proof vacuum hose. And the proprietary strap system keeps the vacuum body from resting against your back. 

Pros 

• The vacuum is compatible with a wide range of Bissell add-ons. 
• The motor comes with a built-in heat sensor to avoid burnouts. 
• A quiet motor is ideal for use in areas frequented by customers or guests. 

Cons 

• The one-year limited warranty is not as long as other vacuums on our list. 
• You may have to purchase additional attachments to get the functions you want. 

The BG1001 was designed with hotels, casinos, and hospitals in mind. 

Prolux 2.0 Commercial Bagless Backpack Vacuum 

This lightweight vacuum empties dust into a bagless 1.9-liter compartment. 

Weighing in at only 9 pounds, it is the lightest vacuum on our list. However, its 125 CFM suction power can perform deep cleaning jobs with ease. 

Users can also switch between a swivel head and a wide hard floor tool. Upholstery and crevice attachments are also included. 

Pros 

• The lightweight design and padded straps make this a comfortable vacuum to wear. 
• You get more attachments with this vacuum than with most other products in the category. 
• Prolux uses a three-stage HEPA air filtration system. 

Cons 

• Capacity may not be large enough for big cleaning jobs. 
• The additional power head for deep cleaning costs extra. 

This is a corded vacuum. It comes with a 50-foot electrical cord. 

Hoover Commercial Shoulder Vac Pro 

This vacuum comes from another respected brand. It brings a few unique traits some cleaners may appreciate. 

First, the 9.2-pound weight will appeal to those seeking a lightweight option. Also, the design includes a transparent top. You can inspect the debris you suck up. The HEPA filters catch 99.97% of particles. However, the cone shape allows for consistent airflow to maintain power throughout the job. 

Pros 

• Chiropractors designed the shape and straps to limit strain on the back. 
• The motor produces 120 CFM of suction power. This is enough for most commercial jobs. 
• The Hoover has unique attachments, including a squeegee and floor brush. 

Cons 

• The unique replaceable filters will cost extra. 
• Additional attachments will cost extra. 

Hoover provides a two-year warranty on the vacuum motor. 

Powr-Flite Premium Comfort Pro Backpack Vacuum 10-Quart 

This high-capacity cleaner is designed specifically for pros. It features 130 CFM suction power. You also get a built-in waist belt that holds attachments. 

Powr-Flite includes three 14-inch tools for different surfaces. The vacuum also boasts a 50-inch telescoping wand. And you can attach a 72-inch stretch hose for maximum reach. 

The Premium Comfort Pro has a “Gold” rating from the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI). 

Pros 

• The vacuum is lightweight. It weighs in at just under 10 pounds. 
• It is one of the quieter backpack vacuums on our list. Its noise level is 62 decibels, which is extremely quiet. 
• The 10-quart dust capacity is ideal for large commercial jobs. 

Cons 

• The warranty only covers one year of labor and two years for parts. 
• The backpack may be too tall for some users. 

The vacuum is corded and comes with a 50-foot extension cord. 

Tornado Pac-Vac 6 Roam 

This cordless model is built for efficiency. It relies on Samsung lithium-ion batteries for extended performance. You also get ultra-quiet performance at 65 decibels. 

A four-stage HEPA system ensures clean air. And the 6-quart bags are large enough for standard cleaning jobs. 

Pros 

• You can see battery status via a color-coded display on the vacuum. 
• The vacuum can run for one hour on a single charge. 
• The backpack has full padding for added comfort. 

Cons 

• The vacuum is heavy. It weighs in at almost 19 pounds. 
• There is only a one-year warranty on parts and labor. 

Tornado has additional accessories and filters available for purchase.