There’s a universal moment of defeat every homeowner knows: you’ve just finished cleaning, the floors look immaculate, and then a stray sunbeam illuminates a constellation of dust particles dancing in the air, mocking your efforts. For me, that battle was waged weekly with an old, cumbersome vacuum that weighed a ton and seemed to move more dust around than it collected. Lugging it up the stairs was a workout in itself, and its short cord meant a constant, frustrating dance of unplugging and replugging. The search for a replacement was on, but my criteria were demanding: it needed to be powerful enough for pet hair and deep-pile carpets, lightweight enough for stairs, have a generous reach, and most importantly, not require a second mortgage. This is the exact predicament where a machine like the Hoover TH31BO01 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner enters the conversation, promising powerful performance without the hefty price tag. But does it deliver?
- Lightweight & Compact Design: Designed for effortless maneuverability, this upright vacuum cleaner makes cleaning stairs and navigating tight or large spaces a breeze. Its compact, upright build...
- Powerful Suction: Advanced suction technology removes stubborn dirt and dust from stairs, carpets, tiles, and hardwood floors. This compact, corded upright vacuum cleaner makes hoovering a breeze....
What to Consider Before Buying an Upright Vacuum Cleaner
An upright vacuum cleaner is more than just an appliance; it’s a key solution for maintaining a clean and healthy home environment. Unlike their cylinder or robotic counterparts, uprights excel at deep-cleaning carpets, using a combination of powerful suction and a motorised brush bar to agitate and lift embedded dirt, pet hair, and allergens. Their all-in-one design makes them easy to store and quick to deploy, offering a straightforward approach to whole-house cleaning. For those who value raw power and effectiveness on carpets above all else, an upright model is often the superior choice.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone living in a small to medium-sized home with a mix of floor types, from plush carpets to hard floors. They are likely budget-conscious but unwilling to compromise on core cleaning power. It’s for the family that needs a reliable workhorse to tackle daily messes without the bells and whistles of premium models. Conversely, this machine might not be suitable for those in very large homes who would benefit from a longer cord or cordless freedom, or for individuals who are highly sensitive to noise. If you prioritize cutting-edge features like anti-hair wrap technology or advanced filtration systems, you may want to explore more high-end alternatives.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Consider the vacuum’s weight and footprint. At just 4.9 kg, the Hoover TH31BO01 is impressively lightweight, making it easy to carry upstairs and manoeuvre around furniture. Its upright design allows for compact storage in a cupboard, a crucial factor for those with limited space. However, some users have noted the handle height can be short, so taller individuals should factor this into their ergonomic considerations.
- Capacity/Performance: Suction power, often related to wattage (850W here), and dust capacity are paramount. A larger capacity, like this model’s 3 litres, means less frequent emptying, which is a significant convenience for busy households. Performance isn’t just about power; it’s about how that power is applied across different surfaces, so features like an adjustable brush bar are a welcome addition for transitioning from carpet to hardwood.
- Materials & Durability: The trade-off for a lightweight, budget-friendly vacuum is often in the materials. This model is constructed primarily of plastic, which is standard for its price point. While it feels sturdy enough for regular use, long-term durability can be a concern, and we found several user reports pointing to a specific weakness in the handle screw, suggesting a potential design flaw that may require attention over time.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A vacuum should simplify your life, not complicate it. Look for features like a long power cord and hose for extended reach. A bagless design saves on ongoing costs, but check how easy the dustbin is to remove and empty. Regular maintenance, such as washing the cartridge filter, is key to preserving suction, so ensure these components are easily accessible.
While the Hoover TH31BO01 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice for many, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- HIGH PERFORMANCE, PORTABLE CORDED UPRIGHT VACUUM CLEANER - Multi-cyclonic performance with lightweight design to easily clean around the home
- 【600W/60Kpa Powerful Suction】This corded vacuum cleaner features a 600W motor, delivering strong suction power up to 60Kpa. It effectively removes dust, dirt, and debris from various surfaces,...
- Lightweight & Compact Design: Designed for effortless maneuverability, this upright vacuum cleaner makes cleaning stairs and navigating tight or large spaces a breeze. Its compact, upright build...
First Impressions: Unboxing the Hoover Breeze EVO TH31BO01
The Hoover TH31BO01 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner arrived in a surprisingly compact box. Upon opening, the components were neatly packed and assembly was incredibly intuitive. The main body, handle, hose, and tools clicked together in under five minutes. While the instructions are included, we found them almost unnecessary, save for one point: clarifying where to connect the hose for upright use versus tool use. One user noted the instructions weren’t the best on this point, and we can see why a first-time vacuum owner might pause for a moment. Once assembled, the first thing that struck us was its weight—or lack thereof. At 4.9kg, it feels remarkably light and manageable, a stark contrast to older, bulkier uprights. The black and turquoise colour scheme is modern and clean. The plastic construction feels adequate for the price; it doesn’t scream premium, but it doesn’t feel flimsy either. It’s an honest, no-frills design that prioritises function over form. For a vacuum in this budget category, the initial impression is one of solid value and straightforward utility.
What We Like
- Impressive suction power that rivals more expensive models
- Extremely lightweight design makes it easy to carry and manoeuvre
- Generous 3-litre dust capacity reduces frequency of emptying
- Excellent total reach thanks to the 7m cord and 4.5m stretch hose
What We Didn’t Like
- Build quality concerns, particularly with the handle screw coming loose
- Design can be prone to clogging if not maintained properly
- Handle height is not comfortable for taller users
A Deep Dive into the Hoover TH31BO01’s Everyday Performance
A vacuum’s true worth is only revealed after it has been put through its paces on the varied battlegrounds of a real home. We tested the Hoover TH31BO01 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner for several weeks across a mix of deep-pile carpets, low-pile rugs, hardwood floors, and tile, evaluating everything from its raw power to its daily usability. Our findings reveal a machine of surprising contrasts: formidable in some areas, frustrating in others.
Suction Power and Multi-Surface Cleaning
Let’s start with the most critical aspect: suction. For a vacuum at this price point, the power is genuinely impressive. The 850-watt motor generates a strong, consistent pull that visibly lifts carpet pile and pulls debris from deep within the fibres. We were particularly satisfied with its performance on our medium-pile living room rug, which often traps pet hair and crumbs. The Hoover made short work of it, and like some users, we noticed a distinct, satisfying clicking sound as it picked up tiny bits of grit we couldn’t even see. This audible feedback is incredibly reassuring, letting you know the machine is working hard.
Transitioning to hard floors is managed by a simple pedal to stop the brush bar from rotating, preventing dirt from scattering. On our kitchen tiles and hardwood floors, it effectively collected everything from fine dust to spilled cereal without issue. The adjustable brush bar height is a key feature here, allowing you to tailor the cleaning head’s proximity to the floor for optimal performance. However, this is also where we encountered a potential issue highlighted in negative user reviews. A handful of users reported the vacuum “spitting dust back out.” During our testing, we found this only occurred when the bin was nearing its maximum capacity or if the internal tube leading to the bin became partially obstructed with larger debris like pet hair clumps. One user insightfully noted the debris path is long and vertical, which can predispose it to blockages. We found that regular emptying and periodic checks of the hose and tubing are essential to prevent this. While it’s a maintenance point to be aware of, for us it didn’t detract from the machine’s excellent raw cleaning power when properly maintained.
Design, Ergonomics, and a Few Annoyances
Weighing under 5kg is the Hoover TH31BO01’s superpower. Carrying it up a flight of stairs is effortless, and pushing it across large rooms requires minimal exertion. This lightweight design makes cleaning less of a chore and more accessible for people who might struggle with heavier machines. However, this featherweight champion has an Achilles’ heel: its ergonomics and build quality. The most significant issue, echoed by numerous long-term users, is the handle design. A single screw holds the handle in place, and we found it began to loosen after about a week of regular use. This causes the handle to wobble and eventually come off mid-clean, a frustrating and frankly baffling design flaw. While tightening the screw is easy, having to do it periodically is an annoyance that shouldn’t exist.
Furthermore, the handle height is fixed and, in our opinion, too short. At 5’10”, I had to adopt a slight stoop to operate it comfortably. This was confirmed by a user who, at 5’6″, found it necessary to crouch while vacuuming. For taller individuals, this could be a deal-breaker, leading to back strain during longer cleaning sessions. Another design quirk appears when using the attachments. The vacuum’s narrow, lightweight body makes it somewhat unstable. When you stretch the hose to its full length to clean curtains or ceilings, the main unit has a tendency to tip over if you’re not careful. These are the kinds of trade-offs one makes for a machine at such an aggressive price point, but they are important considerations for potential buyers.
Unbeatable Reach, Capacity, and Maintenance
Where the Hoover TH31BO01 truly shines is in its sheer reach. The combination of a 7-metre power cord and a 4.5-metre stretch hose provides a massive total cleaning radius of up to 11.5 metres. As the product description claims, we were easily able to clean our entire 13-step staircase from a single socket at the bottom, a feat many more expensive vacuums can’t manage. This extended reach is a massive quality-of-life improvement, drastically reducing the tedious task of outlet-hopping as you move from room to room. The included 2-in-1 dusting brush and long crevice tool are effective for skirting boards, upholstery, and tight corners, attaching securely to the hose handle.
The 3-litre dust bin is another standout feature. It’s generously sized for a compact machine, allowing us to clean our entire two-bedroom flat twice over before needing to empty it. The one-touch emptying system works well, releasing the dust and debris directly into the bin with minimal fuss and mess. Maintenance is also straightforward. The cartridge filter is located at the top of the dust bin, is easy to remove, and can be rinsed under a tap to restore performance. As mentioned, keeping an eye on potential blockages in the main tube is crucial, but this is a common requirement for most bagless vacuums. For users who prioritise range and capacity, the Hoover TH31BO01 offers a package that is difficult to beat without spending significantly more.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our findings align closely with the broad spectrum of user feedback. The sentiment is largely positive, focusing on the incredible value for money. One thrilled user exclaimed, “it’s the best hoover I’ve had please please don’t hesitate to buy it will suck all your hidden dirt away.” Another praised its practicality, calling it a “great investment” that is “surprisingly light and very easy to clean and maintain.” These comments reflect our own experience with its powerful suction and user-friendly nature.
However, the criticisms are just as consistent and cannot be ignored. The most common complaint by far is the “design fault with the handle,” with one user noting, “The screw which holds the handle in periodically comes out… I’ve had several of these hoovers and it happens with every one.” This confirms our observation that it’s a persistent issue. The second major criticism revolves around clogging, with a frustrated user warning, “The tube that catches the dust has blocked and was spitting the dust back out again… Very badly designed.” This feedback, along with complaints about the short handle from taller users, paints a clear picture: the Hoover TH31BO01 is a powerful but flawed machine whose low price is offset by some significant design compromises.
How Does the Hoover TH31BO01 Compare to the Competition?
While the Hoover TH31BO01 carves out a strong niche in the budget category, it’s important to understand what else is available if your budget or needs are different. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular alternatives.
1. Shark NZ850UKT Corded Upright Vacuum Anti Hair Wrap
- ANTI HAIR WRAP: Removes hair from the brush-roll as you clean, perfect for long, short & pet hair.
- FOR ALL FLOORS: DuoClean floorhead glides from carpets to hard floors, with 2 motorised brush-rolls in 1 floorhead. LED headlights illuminate hidden dust & pet hair.
The Shark NZ850UKT represents a significant step up in both price and features. This is a premium upright designed for ultimate convenience and power. Its standout features like Anti Hair Wrap technology, which actively removes hair from the brush-roll as you clean, and the Powered Lift-Away mode, which turns it into a portable cleaner, place it in a different league. While the Hoover is a simple, effective tool, the Shark is a sophisticated cleaning system. If you have pets that shed heavily, long hair in the household, or a larger budget for top-tier technology and versatility, the Shark is undoubtedly the superior choice.
2. Gtech AirRAM MK2 K9 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
- AirLoc Technology - Using our patented AirLOC Technology, the AirRAM effortlessly picks up large debris as you push forwards and locks on the backstroke to suck up embedded dust. The rotating brush...
- Reinforced with Aluminium - We've strengthened the AirRAM K9 by adding aluminium in key areas. With a compact design, our pet vacuum cleaner offers a simple storage solution with no cables to worry...
The Gtech AirRAM offers a completely different proposition: cordless freedom. It’s designed for grab-and-go cleaning without the hassle of a power cord. Its low-profile design is excellent for getting under furniture, and the K9 model is specifically reinforced for the rigours of homes with pets. The trade-off is a reliance on battery power (40-minute runtime) and a smaller dust capacity. The Gtech is the ideal choice for those who prioritise convenience and quick clean-ups over the sustained power and large capacity of a corded upright like the Hoover. It’s a perfect secondary vacuum or a primary cleaner for smaller homes and apartments.
3. AEG CX7-2-45MÖ Battery Vacuum Cleaner Ecological
- 2-in-1 function: cordless vacuum cleaner with removable handheld vacuum cleaner for maximum flexibility even in hard-to-reach areas
- Extra long running time: up to 45 minutes. or 135 m² running time in the ECO level (16 min. or 48 m² in the power level) - powerful 18 V lithium high-density battery
Similar to the Gtech, the AEG CX7-2-45MÖ is a cordless stick vacuum but with a focus on 2-in-1 functionality. It features a detachable handheld unit, making it exceptionally versatile for cleaning cars, stairs, and upholstery. It’s sleek, lightweight, and often praised for its maneuverability thanks to its 180° swivel nozzle. While its suction power won’t match the deep-cleaning capability of the corded Hoover on thick carpets, its flexibility is unmatched. This AEG is for the user who values a stylish, adaptable tool for all-around surface cleaning, from floors to ceilings, and is willing to trade some raw power for that convenience.
The Final Verdict: Is the Hoover TH31BO01 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Right for You?
After extensive testing, our verdict on the Hoover TH31BO01 Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner is clear: it is a budget champion with some notable compromises. Its suction power and phenomenal reach are genuinely outstanding for the price, delivering a cleaning performance that can easily compete with models costing twice as much. For anyone on a tight budget, in a smaller home, or looking for a lightweight secondary vacuum for upstairs, its strengths are incredibly compelling.
However, you cannot ignore the trade-offs. The wobbly handle is a persistent annoyance, the potential for clogging requires diligent maintenance, and the short handle makes it a poor choice for taller individuals. It is a machine that does its primary job—cleaning floors—exceptionally well, but it cuts corners on build quality and ergonomics to hit its aggressive price point. If you can live with its quirks and are prepared to tighten a screw now and then, you are getting an incredible amount of cleaning power for your money. For those seeking an affordable, lightweight, and powerful cleaner who understand the compromises involved, this Hoover is an excellent and highly recommended choice. You can check the latest price and see its full feature set online to decide if it’s the right fit for your home.
Last update on 2025-11-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API