Kenmore DS1020 Review: Lightweight 2‑in‑1 Cordless Vacuum
Overview:The Cordless Stick Vacuum is a lightweight, 16V cleaner built for quick pet-hair and everyday mess removal. Ideal for busy households nationwide, it cleans carpets and hard floors with up to 30 minutes runtime on Low.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Enjoy up to 30 minutes continuous suction for longer cleaning sessions.
- Remove pet hair easily with a motorized brushroll for carpets and floors.
- Illuminate dark corners with the built-in LED headlight for thorough cleaning.
- Detach the lightweight hand vac (under 3 lbs) for stairs and upholstery.
- Charge fully in less than 5 hours using the included portable adapter.
- Select Low or High speed to adjust suction for delicate or deep cleaning.
Original price was: $99.99.$84.99Current price is: $84.99.
Intro
This cordless stick vacuum is a lightweight, 16V cleaning tool designed for quick pickups on carpets and hard floors. It combines a detachable hand vacuum with a slim stick body, two speed settings, and an LED-equipped cleaning head so you can tackle everyday messes and pet-related debris without hauling out a bulky upright.
Who it’s for: apartment dwellers, pet owners who need fast spot cleaning, and anyone looking for a carry-friendly vacuum for stairs, upholstery, and cars. Quick verdict: a practical, no-frills cordless stick that prioritizes portability and convenience over heavy-duty suction.
What’s in the Box
- Cordless stick vacuum (main unit) — Not specified if separate models or exact configuration
- Detachable hand vacuum (integrated convertible unit) — specified
- Rechargeable 16V battery with portable adapter/charger — specified
- User manual — Not specified
- Additional tools (crevice/tool brush) — Not specified
If you need an accessory set (extra nozzles, filters, or wall mount), the listing does not specify those items.
Design & Build
This model is built around a lightweight, minimalist stick form. The hand-vac component detaches from the main stick, and the manufacturer states the detachable hand vacuum portion weighs under 3 lbs — making it easy to carry up and down stairs or hold for above-floor cleaning (source: listing, checked 2025). The overall design emphasizes portability: slim profile, small footprint for storage, and a rechargeable battery pack that clips or connects to the vacuum body.
Materials are not fully specified by the listing. From the typical market segment, expect a plastic housing for the body and tools, with a clear dust bin or collection chamber that likely snaps open for emptying. There’s an LED in the cleaning head to illuminate dark corners and under furniture, helping you spot embedded dirt and pet hair.
Ergonomics: the low weight and convertible hand vac make short cleaning sessions less tiring than using a full-size upright. The two-speed control gives a simple way to balance runtime and suction; however, there’s no detailed information about handle padding, trigger type, or balance point — those specifics are not listed.
Key Features
16V Rechargeable Battery
Benefit: The 16V battery provides the portable power source that frees you from cords and outlets. It supports both the stick and the detachable hand vac, so you can switch from floor to furniture without swapping components.
Where it helps: Quick cleanups in living rooms, kitchens, and cars where dragging an outlet is inconvenient. The battery charges in less than 5 hours (source: listing, checked 2025), so it can be ready for next-day use after a single cleaning session.
Up to 30 Minutes Run Time (Low Mode)
Benefit: Up to 30 minutes of continuous suction on Low Mode allows longer cleaning sessions compared with shorter-run cordless models.
Where it helps: Good for single-room or short whole-apartment sessions—vacuuming a kitchen, living room, and touching up bedrooms on a single charge. Note that this runtime is for Low Mode; High Mode will reduce that figure (source: listing, checked 2025).
Super Lightweight Detachable Hand Vacuum (<3 lbs)
Benefit: The hand vac detaches into a compact unit weighing less than 3 lbs, reducing arm strain and making it practical for overhead or stair cleaning.
Where it helps: Excellent for vacuuming curtains, upholstery, stairs, car interiors, and tight spots where a stick or upright would be unwieldy. Being easy to carry also makes multi-level homes less of a hassle.
Two-Speed Settings (Low & High)
Benefit: Simple two-speed control lets you conserve battery on lighter debris or switch to high for more demanding spots.
Where it helps: Use Low for everyday dirt on hardwood, linoleum, and tile to extend runtime; switch to High on carpets, rugs, and areas with embedded dirt or denser debris.
LED Headlight
Benefit: The built-in LED at the cleaning head illuminates dark corners and beneath furniture so you can see what you’re picking up.
Where it helps: Especially useful when cleaning under sofas, beds, or in dimly lit rooms where dust and small debris hide. The LED headlight highlights hair, crumbs, and fine dust that are easy to miss (LED headlight used here).
Where to buy
Performance & Use
Setup
- Charge the included 16V battery using the portable adapter. The listing states the battery charges in less than 5 hours (source: listing, checked 2025). There’s no mention of a charging indicator light, so expect to rely on time or the adapter’s indicator if present.
- Attach the floor head for sweeping bare floors and low-pile carpet. Remove the hand unit for spot cleaning or above-floor tasks.
Daily use tips
- Start on Low Mode for general dust and debris: it conserves battery and is suitable for tile, hardwood, and linoleum.
- Switch to High Mode for carpets, rugs, or when you encounter pet hair that is sticking to fabrics.
- Use the detachable hand vac for furniture crevices and stairs. The sub-3 lb hand unit is easy to maneuver and reduces fatigue during extended above-floor cleaning.
Maintenance
- Empty the dust bin after each significant session to maintain suction and prevent odors; the listing does not specify dust bin capacity or filter type. If you have pets, more frequent emptying will help maintain performance.
- Filters: The listing does not confirm filter type or replaceability. If your model uses washable filters, rinse and dry fully before reinstalling. If it uses replaceable filters, follow the manufacturer’s guidance (not specified).
- Battery care: Avoid storing the battery completely discharged. Recharging after deep discharge will preserve battery life. The listing specifies a full charge takes less than 5 hours (source: listing, checked 2025), but it does not indicate battery lifespan or replacement policy.
Real-world performance expectations
- On Low Mode, the listing promises up to 30 minutes of runtime (source: listing, checked 2025). Real-world runtime will depend on the surfaces you clean and frequency of High Mode use.
- Suction strength is designed for light- to medium-duty cleaning—spot cleanups, pet hair on surfaces, and general debris removal. If you need deep-cleaning for dense carpeting or frequent heavy-duty jobs, a higher-powered model may be a better fit.
Practical scenarios
- Small apartment: You can often clean a living room and one or two bedrooms in a single charge if you stick mostly to Low Mode.
- Pet owners: Use the hand vac and High Mode for concentrated pet hair removal on couches and pet beds. For heavy shedding, expect to empty the bin more frequently.
- Cars and stairs: The detachable hand vac is ideal for these spaces because of its weight and portability.
Pros vs Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight design; detachable hand vacuum weighs under 3 lbs for easy above-floor cleaning (source: listing, checked 2025). | Not designed for heavy-duty, deep cleaning of high-pile carpets—suction and brush power are modest. |
| Cordless convenience with a rechargeable 16V battery and a portable adapter for simple charging (source: listing, checked 2025). | Battery runtime is up to 30 minutes only on Low Mode; High Mode will reduce run time. |
| Two-speed control allows balancing runtime and power for different surfaces. | Limited details on filters, dust bin capacity, and included accessories—some items are Not specified. |
| LED headlight on the floor head helps reveal hidden dust and debris. | Charging and battery details (lifespan, replaceability) are not listed. |
| Good for quick pickup tasks, stairs, upholstery, cars, and small living spaces. | Not specified whether a wall mount or storage dock is included—might require separate storage solution. |
Who Should Buy
- Small-home or apartment dwellers who need a compact, portable vacuum for regular spot cleaning.
- People who prioritize weight and portability—especially those who frequently clean stairs or vehicles.
- Buyers who want a simple, easy-to-use cordless option with quick charging and convertible hand-vac functionality.
Who Shouldn’t Buy
- Households that require deep-cleaning on high-pile carpets or large homes where extended runtime and very strong suction are necessary.
- Shoppers who need a fully specified accessory kit (multiple tool heads, replacement filters included) — the listing lacks clarity on included attachments.
- People who prefer models with fully-documented filters, bin capacity, and battery lifecycle information.
Specs
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 16V (source: listing, checked 2025) |
| Runtime | Up to 30 minutes on Low Mode (source: listing, checked 2025) |
| Speed Settings | 2 (Low and High) (source: listing, checked 2025) |
| Detachable Hand Vac Weight | Less than 3 lbs (source: listing, checked 2025) |
| LED Light | LED headlight in the cleaning head (source: listing, checked 2025) |
| Charge Time | Charges in less than 5 hours (source: listing, checked 2025) |
| Dust Bin Capacity | Not listed |
| Filter Type | Not listed |
| Accessories Included | Not listed (rechargeable battery with portable adapter specified) |
Final Thoughts & CTA
If you want a lightweight, easy-to-store vacuum for fast pickups, stair and car work, and occasional pet-hair touchups, this 16V cordless stick vacuum is a sensible, budget-friendly choice. It won’t replace a full-size deep-cleaning system for heavy carpet work, but it excels at portability and convenience. Consider it when your priorities are low weight, a convertible hand unit, and simple two-speed operation.
If you’re ready to simplify quick cleanups and need a compact cordless option, check availability and included accessories before buying to ensure it matches your expectations.
Specification: Kenmore DS1020 Review: Lightweight 2‑in‑1 Cordless Vacuum
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4933 reviews for Kenmore DS1020 Review: Lightweight 2‑in‑1 Cordless Vacuum
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Kazianely –
A very stylish and effective vacuum cleaner. Suction is great and the 3 attachments enable you to clean various surfaces.
yogini_53 –
I have an 832 sq ft condo, and this stick vacuum more than has enough charge to vacuum the whole area. It has alot of suction, and I find the handheld vacuum is good as well. I think it is worth what I paid, cord length seems adequate.
Placeholder –
After spending 4+ hours online looking for a very lightweight but well-reviewed vacuum when my Shark bit the dust, (literally and figuratively,) I purchased this Kenmore vacuum. I had HIGH hopes for it. Cordless, which is great since I have a 3 story house and have to lug it up and down stairs, changing the plugs to nearest the stairs. I put it together almost instantly (loud clicks as it went into place) — and put it on the charging stand for 5 hours. The light blinked as it should when charging, and then stopped when it was finished. I removed it from the charging stand, turned it on and NOTHING. NOTHING. NOTHING. It did not work, period. Then I decided to unsnap the liftaway part of the vacuum, turned it on and it blazed into action. Very loud and powerful. But as soon as I clicked it back onto the larger vacuum, it did not work. DEAD. I spent almost 45 minutes on the phone with Kenmore (after waiting on hold for 22 minutes) — they had no solution. Could not send a new charging base (would take weeks), and said, “Send it back to Amazon.” HA HA. Did you ever try to get the many parts of any machine back in the original packaging (all the little dents/holes/compartments in the packing material where all the “things” go?) I spent an hour trying to get all parts reassembled in the original packing material (and I am good with jig saw puzzles, but I failed at this). Oh — and I forgot to also say it took me 30 minutes with a screwdriver trying to push down the round “release button” so I could get the top part of the vacuum handle detached from the body. It would not release. I now have to get a new manicure as my nails were destroyed in the attempt. I finally had to stand on the handle with a screwdriver pushed into the “release” button and do the splits to get the part to detach. I was covered in sweat by this time. Finally I got it all smashed into the original box without all the packing material, held the box together with my chest (husband out of town) — and taped it over and over again so as to take it to Kohl’s for Amazon return. — On the way to Kohl’s, it started to buzz LOUDLY inside the box. Yes, the top part of the “breakaway” vacuum had happily turned on from the on/off switch inside the box somehow. That was the part that had charged completely. I had to return to the house to unpack it all, take off the 30 feet or more of packing tape I had used to secure the box, and then build a little cardboard cup to put over the on/off so it would not somehow turn on again in the box. Spent another 15 minutes trying to close the box with my body and both arms and hands, and then took it in for exchange. All in all, it was a total waste of my entire day. The only good part — I probably lost about 1000 calories in the attempt. For less than $100, you would think Kenmore could send another vacuum, but no, even telling them I was 76 years old and was not able to easily re-pack it, they were not helpful, I am sorry to say. No compassion whatsoever. I should have read the one star reviews before I wrote this one. Someone mentioned they CALLED Amazon to explain they could not detach the top part of the handle, and thus could not fit it into the original box for a return (it was also defective). And Amazon just sent them a new one without their having to send the defective vacuum back. But on the other hand, I have NO desire to own this vacuum anymore as it seems to have serious problems charging after the first few months. AVOID this product!! I just bought a Eureka (with cord) for $80 at WalMart and it is FABULOUS!
Debra a. Obed –
This vacuum is magically perfect. It picks up the kitty litter that my cat tracks on the floor, as well as every little annoying dust bunny. It is lightweight, powerful, swivels everywhere you want it to go and can get underneath any piece of furniture. I love this vacuum and highly recommend it. Don’t hesitate to buy it. Worth every penny!
Daniel Shew –
Easy to use, works great. Be sure to order the one with the stand, it makes it easy to store and ready to grab. It can be tricky to enjoy and reassemble. But, the battery seems to hold a great charge. It’s flexible, stands on it’s own, and cleans like a larger unit.
lisa long –
Best light weight vacuum I’ve ever owned! Absolutely perfect for hard wood floors or tile. Strong suction to pick up everything. We have 2 German shepherds who shed a lot and this vacuum has been a life saver. It’s light weight, easy to empty the canister, has detachable part where you can use for upholstery too! Do yourself and your back a favor! Kenmore has always been known as a good brand and they came through once again! 5 ⭐️ Battery stays charged too! Also it’s sleek and good for small or large house. And for $100 you simply can not go
Wrong! Better than shark we have!
Daniel Shew –
I absolutely love this product! It works exceptionally well. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, allowing me to effortlessly pull it out whenever I need it. It picks up all the crumbs and debris from my hardwood floors without any issues. I highly recommend it! Surprisingly powerful for such a small rechargeable model, it even cleans up well on my rugs. It was definitely worth the purchase.
Andi –
UPDATE: I think I failed to mention how great having a bright light on this vacuum is! I can see the hair/dirt and make sure I’m not missing anything. I’ve had this about 2 months now and use it almost daily. The hair DOES tend to wrap around the filter, but because I clean/rinse out the filter every other day it’s all good. (I’m sure it wouldn’t work as well if I wasn’t doing that.) But I really like the vacuum and even bought a back up one during the Prime Sale just in case this one dies down the road. This has actually become the main vacuum in my house now. Keep in mind cordless vacuums will NOT work very well on thick carpet, but are excellent for hardwood as long as you clean the filter often and empty the canister. This is a great purchase.
ORIGINAL: I know I know, get a life already! BUT we live in the middle of DIRT on 12 acres AND have a dog that sheds short wirey white hair nonstop on our pine-colored laminate floor- I see dirt & hair EVERYWHERE & it drives me crazy. I started exclusively using a cordless, battery operated vacuum that makes my life so much easier & works well- it’s an older (6-7 years old?) Hoover with two batteries I alternate charging so I never have to wait in case the battery that’s being used dies. I never used it in our old house because it just wasn’t strong enough to use on carpet- so it was “new” when I began using it in our carpet-less house when we moved 2 years ago. Lately both batteries act a little sluggish & before I buy the new upgraded cordless model from Hoover I decided to find something less expensive I can use in the meantime (I need a SALE from Hoover ASAP!). After comparing a ton of makes/models I decided to go with this little white Kenmore mainly because it has the highest volts (24), stands on its own & the price was reasonable. When I first opened the box I’ll admit I thought I’d return it immediately- it’s so small it looks like a toy. But after using it almost 2 weeks every other day I can tell you it’s definitely a pretty serious little vacuum. The head is small which REALLY helps getting into tight corners & underneath tables & beds- I’ve been able to capture more dustbunnies easily. The flip side is the fact that YES, it does take more passes to vacuum a room, but our house is fairly small & I’m willing to deal with the trade off. It is also a pretty short vacuum- it would be nicer if it was 6 inches longer/taller but that isn’t a deal-breaker either. I do love that I’ve easily vacuumed the entire house without the battery dying or even losing power, & the fact that I can take it apart to use as a dustbuster is super convenient- I use it to clean window sills, furniture, etc. The dustbin is small & I have to empty it every other time I use it, but I don’t mind- it’s easy to do standing over the trashcan & it doesn’t have the chance to hold a ton of dusty dirt that blows everywhere when emptying. The accordian style paper filter is easy to clean- I didn’t soak it with water but I did knock off the dirt using the sprayer head in my kitchen sink which made it like new again. I let the filter air dry for a day- while it was drying out I just popped in the extra filter that the vacuum came with (thankfully!). I did buy two additional filters to use in the future just in case they are needed. This vacuum doesn’t take up a lot of space either- I keep it in the docking station that’s plugged into our bedroom. It’s out of the way & I typically start vacuuming our bedroom/bathroom first anyway. I’m glad I went with this one- I fell down the bunny hole of looking at a million other ones on Amazon comparing descriptions, specs, reviews, etc. I do think this one has plenty of power- all the hair & dirt comes up mostly just using the LOW setting, but it’s great having that HIGH setting to go over mats & the few very small area rugs I have. The brush roller runs constantly but it doesn’t spit dirt out of the back so that’s fine too. For as much time I put in cleaning my floor & for as important it is to me to have clean floors, this was definitely money well spent- I’ll run this vacuum a lot & enjoy the results.
Starshine Bright Lifestyle Ideas –
Love this unit – so far. Had a problem with the first one I bought and customer service was excellent. Problem solved – so far.
It’s light and flexible, holds enough charge to do my whole one bedroom apartment. The detachable hand vac is great for quick clean-ups and the attachments make dusting and hard to reach spots a breeze.
Recommend. Excellent customer service.
Mike –
Muy buen producto hace muy bien su función me llegó en perfecto estado mi piso tiene junta separada y me agrada que esté producto solo aspira en seco no usa agua para limpiar el suelo
Texas mom –
I have had Major Brand name vacuums Like Dyson, Electrolux, Meil and Brussels! I recently purchased This Kenmore cordless vacuum. I definitely made one of the best purchases here on Amazon! Great Unit!!
Great suction! Light weight and so easy to maintain and Low noise operating system w/Tray that comes with all the accessories on a stand up tray where it sits for charging! Overall performance is a 5 ☆
The cost of this vacuum is a fraction of the cost that I have spent on the other vacuums I’ve had!
I highly recommend this vacuum for anyone who is looking for a versatile and reliable well built vacuum at a great price range that gives you the performance of Big Buck competitors!!
Great Find, Great Product. 👍
Mike