Your questions about handheld vacuum cleaners answered What is the best handheld vacuum cleaner? My overall top pick, the Dyson car+boat, proves itself worthy of the premium price tag, with exceptional suction and an impressive 50-minute battery life. For pet owners, the Gtech multi K9 delivers outstanding performance on stubborn fur and dander, with its headlight proving surprisingly useful for spotting hidden pet hair on furniture.The Gtech prolite, meanwhile, offers solid all-round performance with the convenience of a bagged system, making it ideal for those who prefer cleaner disposal. If money is a little tight, the Beldray wet and dry model brings welcome versatility to the category, handling both crumbs and small liquid spills with equal aplomb, though its limited capacity means it's best suited to quick clean-ups rather than substantial messes.How I tested handheld vacuum cleaners I tested every handheld vacuum cleaner in my own home over the course of several weeks. During testing, I looked for several different criteria, including:Suction: I looked at how well each handheld vacuum picked up crumbs, pet hair and general debris from different surfaces, including furniture and flooring. I considered how effective the strength of suction was and whether it was able to deal with liquid spills, too. Battery life: I timed the battery life and whether this remained consistent during testing. Ease of use: I wanted vacuums you can whip out of a cupboard for a quick clean-up. I evaluated ergonomics during extended use, considering how comfortable each model was when tackling larger cleaning jobs. Weight distribution, handle design, and button placement all factor into my assessment. Accessories: I also rated handy extras such as crevice tools, pet-hair attachments and charging docks. How often should you vacuum your car?Roughly every two weeks should be enough for most people. Ultimately, though, this will depend on how you use your car and how dirty it tends to get. For instance, if you drive everyday, own a pet, or live somewhere with a lot of dust, dirt and debris, you’ll want to vacuum more frequently. Similarly, if you’re trying to reduce allergies, you’ll want to clean more regularly. Additionally, it might be worth wiping down surfaces between vacuuming sessions. How long do handheld vacuum batteries last?Generally, most handheld vacuums will run for 10-30 minutes. Some last longer, such as Dyson’s, for instance, which runs for 50 minutes in standard mode. Why you can trust IndyBest reviewsThe Independent’s dedicated shopping section, IndyBest is committed to providing unbiased reviews and expert advice. Our team of editors and writers have years of experience in testing products and trialling them within their own homes. Caroline Preece is a journalist who focuses on home and lifestyle topics. She has years of experience testing vacuums and can use her knowledge and expertise to gest products and bring you her pick of the best.Want more recommendations? Check out our other vacuum cleaner guides