Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner Review: The Budget Pet Hair Contender Put to the Test

In our home, the war against pet fur is waged daily. It’s a silent, fluffy invasion that settles on every surface, weaves itself into rugs, and forms tumbleweeds in every corner. For years, we relied on a bulky, traditional canister vacuum that, while powerful, was a chore to haul out, plug in, and manoeuvre around furniture. Every quick cleanup felt like a major operation. This constant frustration led us on a quest for something different: a lightweight, agile, and effective cleaning tool that could handle the daily onslaught from our furry companions without breaking our backs or the bank. The challenge is finding a machine that promises deep cleaning power in a nimble stick format, especially one that claims to be a specialist in pet hair removal. This is the exact niche the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner aims to fill, but does it live up to its ambitious claims?

What to Consider Before Buying a Corded Stick Vacuum

A corded stick vacuum is more than just a cleaning appliance; it’s a key solution for fast, convenient, and powerful cleaning in modern homes. It bridges the gap between underpowered cordless models and cumbersome traditional vacuums. The primary benefit is the promise of consistent, uninterrupted power. There are no batteries to fade mid-clean, ensuring you get full suction from the moment you start to the moment you finish. This makes them ideal for tackling everything from daily dust and crumbs on hard floors to more stubborn dirt and, crucially for many of us, embedded pet hair in carpets and upholstery.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone living in a small to medium-sized home, apartment, or flat, who values convenience and lightweight design but doesn’t want to compromise on suction power for their primary cleaning tasks. Pet owners, allergy sufferers who need reliable HEPA filtration, and anyone tired of lugging a heavy vacuum up and down stairs will find a corded stick vacuum particularly appealing. However, it might not be the best fit for those with very large, sprawling homes where the cord length could become a significant hindrance, requiring frequent unplugging and replugging. For those users, a high-end cordless model or a robot vacuum for maintenance might be better alternatives.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: The beauty of a stick vacuum is its slim profile. Look at the product’s dimensions (height, width) to ensure it can be stored easily in a utility cupboard or mounted on a wall. At 2.6 kg, the weight is also a critical factor. Consider how this will feel when cleaning for extended periods or lifting it to tackle ceilings and curtains.
• Capacity/Performance: Power, measured in watts (like the 400W motor here), gives an indication of suction potential. Equally important is the dustbin capacity; a 1L bin is quite generous for a stick vacuum and means fewer trips to the bin. Also, consider the filtration system. A HEPA filter is non-negotiable for allergy sufferers and pet owners as it traps microscopic particles that other vacuums might recirculate into the air.
• Materials & Durability: The trade-off for a lightweight design is often the use of plastics. Examine the quality of these materials. Does the main wand feel sturdy? Are the connection points secure? User feedback on longevity is invaluable here, as a weak point in the plastic construction can render the entire unit useless.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good stick vacuum should be intuitive. How easily does it convert from a stick to a handheld? Is emptying the dustbin a simple, one-click process, or is it messy? Consider the long-term care: are the filters washable and easy to access? This will save you money on replacements and keep the vacuum running at peak performance.

Keeping these factors in mind, the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner stands out in several areas, particularly its capacity and filtration for the price point. You can explore its detailed specifications here.

While the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice for a certain type of user, 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:

First Impressions: Unboxing the Peri Purple Powerhouse

Upon its arrival, the first thing that struck us about the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner was its vibrant “Peri Purple” colour. It’s a bold choice that stands out from the sea of grey and silver appliances. The packaging was straightforward, and assembly was a breeze; the components clicked together intuitively in under two minutes with no need for tools, which is always a welcome feature. In hand, the main motor unit has a noticeable but manageable heft. While the overall weight is a respectable 2.6 kg, most of that weight is concentrated at the top, which can lead to some wrist fatigue during longer cleaning sessions, a point echoed by one user who found it heavier than their previous Dyson. The plastics feel adequate for a budget-friendly model, though not as premium or robust as those found on pricier competitors like Shark. The included tools—a crevice tool, a standard brush tool, and the all-important Pet Brush—feel solid and fit securely onto the handheld unit. Our initial impression was of a well-designed, accessible vacuum that makes a strong visual statement, but one whose long-term durability would be the ultimate test.

A Deep Dive into the Tower VL20’s Real-World Performance

A vacuum’s true worth is only revealed when it’s faced with the daily grind of a real home. We put the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner through its paces for several weeks, testing it on a variety of surfaces, from laminate flooring and vinyl to low-pile rugs, and against an army of pet hair, dust, and scattered cat litter. Our findings were a mix of pleasant surprises and notable disappointments that paint a very specific picture of who this vacuum is for.

Suction Power and Multi-Surface Cleaning

The heart of this vacuum is its 400W motor, which powers a cyclonic suction system. Tower claims this ensures consistent airflow, and on hard surfaces, we found this to be absolutely true. On our kitchen vinyl and living room laminate, the VL20 was a star performer. It effortlessly lifted dust, crumbs, and stray cat kibble in a single pass. The suction felt strong and direct, pulling dirt from grout lines and along skirting boards with impressive tenacity. One user noted it was “Really good suction for a small hoover,” and we wholeheartedly agree in this context. It leaves hard floors looking spotless.

However, the story changes when moving to carpeted surfaces. On our low-pile area rug, the standard floor head struggled. While it did pick up surface-level debris and created those satisfying “nice lines in carpet” another user mentioned, it had difficulty with deeply embedded pet hair. We had to make multiple slow passes to get the rug clean, and even then, some stubborn hairs remained woven into the fibres. This aligns with the experience of a cat owner who found it “struggled to suck up the little bits of fur from my 4 cats.” The machine is loud, as noted by a reviewer who presumed it was due to the good suction, and we can confirm it operates at a high pitch that you wouldn’t want to run late at night. The included Pet Brush attachment is essential for carpets and upholstery, but using it requires converting to handheld mode, which isn’t practical for cleaning an entire carpeted room.

Design, Ergonomics, and Usability Challenges

Weighing in at 2.6 kg, the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner is objectively lightweight. Several users praised this, calling it “extremely lightweight” and “easy to push around.” For quick cleanups and whizzing around a small flat, this is a massive advantage. The 3-in-1 design is executed well; detaching the main tube to create a handheld vacuum is simple and allows for easy cleaning of stairs, car interiors, and furniture. This versatility is one of its strongest selling points.

Despite its low overall weight, the ergonomics present a mixed bag. As mentioned, the weight is concentrated in the handle, which can cause arm ache during prolonged use. The biggest usability issue, however, is the power cord. It is frustratingly short. We found ourselves constantly searching for the next available socket when moving between rooms, and just as one user reported, we ended up resorting to an extension cable for a seamless whole-floor clean. This tethered experience is the fundamental trade-off for the consistent power a corded model provides, but a longer cord would have dramatically improved the user experience. The 1-litre dustbin, on the other hand, is a design highlight. It holds a surprising amount of debris, and emptying it is a clean, simple process. The way it clumps hair and dust together, as one happy customer noted, means “no mess when emptying it.”

The Pet Owner’s Perspective: Filtration and Specialised Tools

For homes with pets and allergy sufferers, effective filtration is paramount. The inclusion of a HEPA filter in a vacuum at this price point is a major win. Throughout our testing, we noticed a tangible improvement in air quality post-cleaning. The filter does an excellent job of trapping the fine dander and dust that can trigger allergies. One user with asthma, a Persian cat, and two dogs called it “fantastic,” noting the shocking amount of fine particles collected in the filter after just a week of use. This is where the VL20 truly shines for health-conscious users.

The dedicated Pet Brush attachment is the other key feature for animal lovers. When used in handheld mode on upholstery, pet beds, and stairs, it performed reasonably well. The stiff bristles agitate the fabric to loosen embedded fur, allowing the suction to pull it away. It’s a useful tool for targeted cleaning. However, it doesn’t fully compensate for the main floor head’s mediocre performance on carpeted areas. The vacuum is marketed heavily towards pet owners, but its effectiveness is highly dependent on your home’s flooring. If you have mostly hard floors with a few rugs, it’s a great tool. If your home is primarily carpeted, its pet hair capabilities may fall short of your expectations.

A Critical Look at Durability and Build Quality

This is where our review must take a serious turn. While our test unit performed without mechanical failure during our evaluation period, the volume of user feedback highlighting significant durability issues is impossible to ignore. Several users reported catastrophic failures after just a few months of light use. One review stated, “The main tube plastic has completely snapped off,” while another detailed how the “hose bit has snapped off the waste part.” These are not minor cosmetic issues; they are critical failures that render the product useless.

Perhaps most alarming is the report of the motor overheating to the point that it “burns your hand and I’ve noticed the plastic has melted a bit.” This is a major safety and design concern. Another user pinpointed a potential “design fault,” suggesting a crucial part was held together by only two screws before it broke. This pattern of feedback suggests a potential weakness in the materials or construction at key stress points. While the initial price is attractive, the prospect of the vacuum breaking within six months, as reported by multiple users, severely undermines its value proposition. It turns a budget-friendly purchase into a potential false economy.

What Other Users Are Saying

Looking at the broader user experience, a clear and divided picture of the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner emerges. On the positive side, many users are thrilled with its performance relative to its price. Comments like “Love this hoover. Very easy to push around as it’s extremely lightweight. Picks up everything,” and “Fantastic vacuum cleaner, light, sucks up all the dust, easy to use,” showcase its appeal for those with smaller homes and primarily hard floors. These users value its simplicity, powerful suction on smooth surfaces, and easy maintenance.

However, a significant and worrying counter-narrative exists. The negative reviews focus almost exclusively on critical durability failures. The sentiment is summed up perfectly by a user who was initially happy but found it “broke after 6 months,” calling it a “design fault.” Another user’s experience with the motor overheating and melting the plastic casing is a severe indictment of the product’s build quality and safety. This stark contrast in experiences suggests that while a functioning unit performs well for its intended purpose, there is a tangible risk of receiving a unit with inherent structural weaknesses.

How Does the Tower VL20 Compare to the Alternatives?

The Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner operates in a fiercely competitive market. While its corded design offers consistent power, many buyers are drawn to the freedom of cordless models. Here’s how it stacks up against three popular alternatives.

1. UNINELL HOME Cordless Stick Vacuum 45KPA Self-Standing

The UNINELL HOME model immediately highlights the primary advantage of going cordless: complete freedom of movement. With a claimed 45KPa of suction power, it is significantly more powerful on paper than the Tower’s 400W motor. Key features like its self-standing function and anti-tangle brush head address common stick vacuum annoyances. A user who is frustrated by the Tower’s short cord and its average performance on carpeted floors would find this UNINELL model a compelling upgrade. The trade-off is the reliance on battery life (up to 60 minutes) and likely a higher price point, but for ultimate convenience and power, it’s a strong contender.

2. MONSGA MV3 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner 45KPa

Similar to the UNINELL, the MONSGA MV3 offers powerful cordless performance with a 550W motor and 45KPa suction. It differentiates itself with an LED display, providing real-time information on battery life and suction mode, which is a premium feature the Tower lacks. The anti-tangle technology is again a major draw for pet owners who are tired of cutting hair from brush rolls. For someone who likes the lightweight concept of the Tower but is concerned about its pet hair performance on rugs and its questionable durability, the MONSGA MV3 presents a more robust and feature-rich, albeit more expensive, alternative.

3. Shark Stratos IZ420UKT Cordless Stick Vacuum Pet Pro

The Shark Stratos represents the premium end of the spectrum and is a direct competitor to high-end brands. Its feature set is extensive: a massive 120-minute run-time (thanks to two included batteries), Anti Hair Wrap Plus technology, Clean Sense IQ that automatically adjusts suction power, and Anti-Odour technology. This is a machine for someone who wants the absolute best in cordless cleaning without compromise. Compared to the Tower VL20, it’s in a different league entirely. A user who bought the Tower as a cheaper alternative to a Dyson and was disappointed would find the Shark Stratos delivers the performance and build quality they were originally seeking.

The Final Verdict: A Capable Cleaner with a Serious Catch

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner is one of cautious, conditional recommendation. On one hand, it offers genuinely impressive suction for its class on hard floors, fantastic HEPA filtration for allergy sufferers, and a lightweight, versatile design that makes daily cleanups less of a chore. For a student, a couple in a small flat with laminate flooring, or as a secondary “upstairs” vacuum, its performance is hard to beat for the very low entry price.

However, the significant and repeated reports of catastrophic durability failures cannot be overlooked. The risk of the plastic wand snapping or the motor overheating represents a major gamble. Its performance on carpets with embedded pet hair is lacklustre, and the short power cord is a constant inconvenience. Therefore, we can only recommend this vacuum to buyers on a very strict budget who have mostly hard floors and are willing to accept the potential risk to its longevity. For anyone with more carpets, a larger home, or a desire for long-term peace of mind, investing more in a better-built model from a more reputable brand would be a wiser decision.

If you’ve decided the Tower T513006PETS VL20 3-in-1 Corded Vacuum Cleaner is the right fit for your specific needs and budget, you can check its current price and purchase it here.