Are bagless vacuum cleaners better than bagged?

Bagged vs bagless vacuum – what are the main differences? If you're in the market for a new vacuum, you might be weighing the pros and cons of bagged and bagless vacuum cleaners. Here we tackle some common queries, and shed light on what type comes out ahead.

1. Which is more convenient: a bagged or bagless vacuum cleaner?

Inside of a bagged Bosch vacuum cleaner showing the dust bag and filter

Like their name suggests, for bagged vacuums you'll need to change the vacuum bag from time to time and remember to keep a supply of bags in stock. Bagless models are fitted with a reusable dust box that's emptied in the rubbish bin after a vacuuming session. Beyond finding this low hassle and convenient, many people appreciate that there are no follow-up costs.

2. Which is more hygienic: a bagged or bagless vacuum cleaner?

Woman with closed eyes and slightly tipped back head breathing air peacefully

This is a common question. Bagged Bosch ProHygienic model is equipped with a first-class filtration system with an UltraAllergy filter. Bagged ProHygienic vacuums also come with an AirFresh dust bag. If you want the best vacuum for allergies that will limit your exposure to dust, choose a ProHygienic vacuum cleaner with a bag. We do not carry a Baggless Bosch ProHygienic model in New Zealand.

3. What's best for pet hair, power, peace and quiet: a bagged or bagless vacuum cleaner?

Fluffy cat walking on beige carpet next to a sea green sofa.
Lower part of woman's face, she's holding a finger to her lips to be quiet
Fallen plant spilled dirt on wood floor and beige carpet, Bosch vacuum cleaning up the mess

Sometimes bag or no bag isn't your only concern. If vacuuming makes your mind go to pet hair, allergies, high-pile carpet, or loud motor noise, don't worry. We've got vacuum cleaners to solve every vacuuming challenge – in bagged and bagless models. Those looking for ultimate vacuuming flexibility should also explore our cordless vacuum cleaners.

4. Which holds more: a bagged or bagless vacuum cleaner?

Hand removing a dust bin from a bagless vacuum cleaner
Lineup of Bosch five vacuum dust bags

Our bagless vacuums can hold up to 2.4L in capacity where as the bagged vacuums can hold up to 4.0L in capacity. The rule of thumb: opt for a bagged vacuum cleaner if you want to change the bag/empty the dust bin less frequently.

5. Which is easier to use: a bagged or bagless vacuum cleaner?

Person using different attachments to vacuum on the floor, sideboard and wall

When considering whether to choose a bagged or bagless vacuum, ease of use should also be on your mind. Changing a bag is easy and makes bagged models a high-comfort option. But if you ever need to retrieve small toys, jewellery or other tiny treasures from your vacuum, you'll appreciate the transparency of bagless.

For easy bag changes: choose bagged.
For easy retrieval: go bagless.

6. Which is best for cleaning my car or mattress: a bagged or bagless vacuum cleaner?

Special vacuum attachment for the mattress used to clean a bed
Front seat of a car being vacuumed with a special crevice nozzle

In this case, it's less about bagged vs bagless and more about having the right attachment. A special crevice nozzle, for example, slides in between the car seat and centre console. In the bedroom, a mattress brush is perfect for, no surprise here, cleaning your mattress. Another option to consider: a cordless vacuum cleaner. With nothing to tie you down, you can flexibly vacuum many different surfaces, from garage and shed to the attic and bed.

Which vacuum cleaner fits best to my needs?

So, which vacuum cleaner is better, bagged or bagless?

It ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, your lifestyle and your priorities since each type has its own advantages. If you don't have a clear favourite, we invite you to browse an overview of our bagged vacuums and bagless vacuums to get a better idea of the benefits of each.

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