With its lift-away functionality, anti-allergen seal, and pet power features, this vacuum seems like a promising choice for pet owners and those with allergies. In this review, we will dive into the details of this vacuum and share our personal experience with it.
As a long-time owner of Dyson vacuums, I was skeptical about trying a different brand. However, after using the Shark NV356E, I must say that it has surprised me in many ways. The construction of the vacuum is not as heavy-duty as the Dyson, but it is still fairly well-built. The lift-away feature is a game-changer, allowing me to easily clean above-floor areas like stairs and furniture. The swivel steering also makes maneuvering the vacuum effortless, even in tight spaces.
One of the standout features of this vacuum is its excellent filtration system. The combination of a HEPA filter and the anti-allergen seal ensures that 99.9% of dust and allergens are trapped inside the vacuum, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers. In comparison to my Dyson, the Shark’s filter system is far more effective, leaving the air smelling clean and fresh after each use.
When it comes to cleaning performance, the Shark NV356E does not disappoint. It effortlessly picks up pet hair and loose debris, leaving my carpets and upholstery looking spotless. The included pet power brush is a handy attachment that works wonders on removing pet dander from upholstery and other surfaces. The dusting brush and crevice tool are also useful for tackling hard-to-reach areas and delicate surfaces.
However, there are a few design flaws that I’ve noticed. The dustbin door release is located at the bottom of the canister, which can be inconvenient and potentially messy when emptying the contents. Additionally, the interior design of the canister has some bracing that tends to trap pet fur, requiring extra effort to dislodge it.
Shark NV356E Navigator: Design and Construction
Despite not being as heavy-duty as other models on the market, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is well-constructed and durable. The clips may be a bit flimsier and smaller compared to other vacuums, but the overall build quality is satisfactory. One notable feature is the metal extension tube, which adds to the vacuum’s sturdiness. The design is functional rather than aesthetically pleasing, with an industrial-looking tank and a slightly cluttered appearance. However, the vacuum’s size and weight make it an excellent choice for those with petite builds or senior citizens.Ergonomically, the Shark Navigator offers a mixed bag of features. While it may not have the streamlined and compact design of some other models, it does offer some unique advantages. The “Lift-Away” canister is a brilliant addition, allowing for easy cleaning of stairs, blinds, and other hard-to-reach areas. The swivel steering feature, although less visually appealing than a ball vacuum, works just as effectively in maneuvering the vacuum around tight spaces. Overall, the vacuum combines the benefits of a canister and an upright vacuum in one unit. Some aspects, such as the cord holder and tool holder, may feel a bit tacked on, but assembly is simple and straightforward. The handle is well-placed and comfortable to use, and the main roller head is easy to tilt. The standout feature, however, is the ability to remove the tank easily, making emptying the dust cup a breeze.
Shark NV356E Navigator: Advanced Filtration System
The advanced filtration system of the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is one of its highlights. Unlike some other vacuums that only have a basic HEPA filter, the Shark offers a multi-step filter system in two different locations. This filtration system is highly effective in trapping dust and allergens, making it an excellent option for allergy sufferers. The base filter, consisting of a felt filter and a foam filter, can be easily accessed when removing the canister. The “post motor” air return filter, a HEPA filter inside an egg crate-style frame, is conveniently located at the front of the vacuum. With this filtration system, the vacuum ensures that no dust or allergens are released back into the air. Additionally, the filters are designed to be easily cleaned, maintaining the vacuum’s performance over time.
Shark NV356E Navigator: Powerful Carpet Cleaning
In terms of cleaning carpets, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum truly shines. Despite its surprisingly quiet operation, this vacuum outperforms larger and more expensive models. It effortlessly removes dirt and debris from medium-pile carpets and effectively deep-cleans pet hair and dander. The motorized brush head, with its indicator light, ensures that the brush is working properly and alerts you to any blockages or jams. The vacuum’s suction power can be adjusted using a convenient suction control ring. However, it’s worth noting that on cut pile carpets, the Shark may leave brush marks, which may or may not be bothersome depending on personal preference and the type of carpet. Overall, the vacuum’s cleaning performance on carpets is highly impressive.
Versatile Hardwood Floor Cleaning
Not only is the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum effective on carpets, but it also excels in cleaning hardwood floors. The included Dust Away attachment, with its detachable pad, acts like a powerful Swiffer, picking up dust and grit that often gets missed by regular vacuum cleaners. It easily maneuvers along walls and effectively cleans gaps between plank-style hardwood floors. While regular wet mopping may still be necessary for sticky messes, the Dust Away attachment provides a convenient option for regular cleaning. This versatile feature is a welcome addition for those with hardwood floors in their homes.
Shark NV356E Navigator: Pet Hair Removal
For pet owners, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is a boon. The pet attachment, powered by suction, effectively removes pet hair from upholstery and stairs. Unlike larger and less practical attachments
Pros:
- Lift-Away functionality allows for easy cleaning of above-floor areas like stairs and furniture.
- Anti-allergen complete seal with HEPA filter traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- Swivel steering makes maneuvering the vacuum in tight spaces and around furniture a breeze.
Cons:
- Questionable aesthetics and ergonomics compared to other vacuum cleaners.
- Some materials may be flimsy and not as heavy-duty as other brands.
- No soft brush attachment included, limiting versatility for delicate surfaces.
Conclusion
Overall, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is a worthy contender in the world of vacuum cleaners. It may not have the same level of aesthetics and ergonomics as the Dyson, but it makes up for it with its powerful suction, versatile features, and excellent filtration system. For its affordable price, it offers great value and performance. If you’re in the market for a reliable vacuum that can handle pet hair and allergies, give the Shark NV356E a try.
Questions & Answers:
Question: How does the Shark NV356E Navigator compare to Dyson vacuum cleaners?
Answer: The Shark NV356E Navigator outperforms Dyson vacuums in many ways, despite its lower price. It has a lift-away canister for easy cleaning of above-floor areas, a powerful suction, and a fantastic filter system. However, it may lack some of the aesthetics and ergonomics of Dyson vacuums.
Question: Is the Shark NV356E Navigator suitable for pet owners?
Answer: Yes, the Shark NV356E Navigator is perfect for pet owners. It effectively picks up pet hair and loose debris, and the pet upholstery attachment is great for cleaning upholstery and stairs. It also deep-cleans dander out of upholstery and other surfaces.
Question: How long is the cord of the Shark NV356E Navigator?
Answer: The cord length of the Shark NV356E Navigator is 300 inches, providing ample reach for cleaning large areas without having to constantly change outlets.
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