What is a good hand-held vacuum for quick cleanups around the house?

I have a Shark handheld vacuum that is similar to this one, and I really like it. No bags, and it does the job for not a ton of money.

I did some research on these things because I wanted one for the same reasons you suggest but everything I read said they tend to have really poor battery life. I would love to hear about how long the batteries last on these things.

The Dyson root 6 has my heart! I love that thing. It’s super powerful just like the uprights made by Dyson only it’s a battery powered handheld. I use it for everything ESP my car. I think the battery life could be a bit longer but I often forget to charge it up fully so it’s hard to tell. It was pricey but worth it in my opinion – also if in the states use a 20% off bed bath and beyond coupon to get it (they take expired coupons nationwide – I’m told) and that is a deal in my opinion :)

The tail of my dog works very well and is a wet vac to boot that leaves a sparkling spit shine.

Another vote for Dyson, they simply make a better product than the rest. I don’t own a small hand held one but do a big one.

…and that’s how we smuggle “hand held big one” in to the general section.

I’ve had a couple of battery operated hand held vacuums, and nothing compares to one that runs on electricity. Both Mom and I are elated with our Dirt Devils. They have a really long cord, so it’s easy to get around the the whole car without unplugging it. My fairly large bathroom is partially carpeted, so I clean it with the handheld vac in order to get into the crevices. It is also fantastic on stairs, especially if carpeted.

If you have the money, get the Dyson. I have the handheld and got rid of my vacuum cleaner. My friend Tristan has cleaned his entire boat with it. I’ve never had a battery problem (I store it in the charger).