Sebo BS360 Upright Vacuum: Buyers Guide & Review

• Twin Motor System: Unlike most domestic vacuums, the BS360 has two separate motors: one for vacuum suction and another specifically for the brush roller. This design provides powerful suction and effective mechanical brush action, which is particularly good for deep cleaning carpets and removing pet hair.

• Durability and Build Quality: Built for intensive use in commercial environments, the vacuum features robust construction from high-grade ABS plastic and components designed to last for years, minimising repair needs.

• High Productivity: The 36 cm (14 inch) cleaning width combined with its low weight makes it easy to clean large areas quickly and efficiently without user fatigue.

• Easy Maintenance: The design allows for simple maintenance, including tool-free, replaceable brush strips, filters and a convenient trap door for easy blockage clearing.

• Effective Filtration: It uses a three-step filtration system, including a 5-litre, 3-layer filter bag, an S-class pre motor micro-filter and HEPA exhaust filter, which effectively captures allergens and fine particles, making it suitable for hotels and offices.

• Versatile Cleaning: The L-shaped 36cm wide cleaning head and lay-flat operation allow it to reach under furniture and radiators with ease. An integrated hose and wand tube further enhance its versatility for cleaning corners and tight spaces.

• Electronic Guidance: The vacuum features an advanced electronic system equipped with indicator lights that notify you when the dust bag is full and requires replacement. Additionally, it alerts you to any blockages within the vacuum and informs you when the brush is not effectively engaging with the floor surface or when the brush needs to be replaced due to wear.

• Protection Systems: A non-slip timing belt is protected by electronic overload detection, which safeguards the motor and belt from damage.

• Stage 1: The Filter Bag (UltraBag) The process begins with a large, 5-liter, 3-layer dust bag. This bag functions like a primary filter, trapping most of the dirt and debris. The bag is designed with a hygiene lid for clean and easy disposal, ensuring the user is not re-exposed to the collected dust.

• Stage 2: Pre-Motor Microfilter: Before the air reaches the motor, it passes through a pre-motor protection filter. This filter not only captures remaining fine particles but also protects the motor from dust ingestion, which extends the machine's lifespan. Hospital-grade versions of this filter are also available as an upgrade.

• Stage 3: Exhaust HEPA Filter: The final stage is the exhaust filter. A full HEPA exhaust filter cartridge is fitted as standard on the BS360 and BS460 models to further enhance air quality, making the system ideal for individuals with asthma and severe allergies.

• Offices and Corporate Buildings: Highly effective for maintaining high-traffic carpeted areas and ensuring clean floors in professional environments.

• Hotels and Hospitality: Used in guest rooms, hallways, and conference spaces due to its reliability and ability to clean a variety of floor types efficiently.

• Healthcare and Medical Facilities: The high-level filtration system makes it suitable for hospitals, clinics, and care homes where hygiene and air quality are paramount.

• Schools and Universities: The robust construction and ease of maintenance make it ideal for the demanding cleaning schedules of educational institutions, from classrooms to large common areas.

• Government and Prestigious Facilities: Due to its proven reliability and performance, the BS 360 is trusted in iconic and sensitive locations such as Buckingham Palace, the Whitehouse, and various government departments.

• Large Retail Spaces: The 36 cm cleaning width is efficient for medium to large-sized areas like high-end retail stores and shopping centres. It is very effective on entrance barrier matting.

• Cruise Ships and Public Transport: Favored in the transport industry for its durability and performance in busy, confined spaces.

Suitable Floor Types

The BS360 excels on short-pile carpets, carpet tiles, and most commercial-grade flooring due to its powerful twin-motor brush agitation. It can also be used effectively on hard floors with its four-level height adjustment.

• 1986: Sebo launched the Sebo 360 series, which served as the precursor to the BS 36. In terms of appearance, the 360 and 460 closely resemble the contemporary BS360, as they share numerous features. However, instead of the shades of grey found in modern models, these earlier versions were styled in Brown and Cream, embodying a very 1980s aesthetic.

• 1991: The Sebo BS 36/46 models were introduced, building upon the 360 series design. These models became a popular choice for commercial use in various facilities like offices, hospitals, and hotels due to their durability and powerful two-motor system.

• 2012: The established twin-motored uprights were redesigned, with the Sebo BS 36/46 Comfort models receiving a new and improved power head, making them more convenient and easier to service.

• 2017: The BS 36 Comfort was replaced with a facelifted model called the Sebo BS360 and BS460 (for the wider version). This update was made in response to new EU regulations affecting vacuum cleaner power consumption, which required a redesigned floor head to improve performance with lower wattage.

Despite the model changes and updates over the decades, the core design and usability of the BS range have remained remarkably similar, a testament to the original design's effectiveness and longevity. The BS360 remains a best-selling commercial upright vacuum cleaner globally. 

Sebo BS360 Technical Specifications

Wattage	890W total (Suction motor ~700W, Brush motor ~175W)
Construction	High Grade ABS
Cable	10-metre
Filterbag Volume in Machine	5-litre
Brush Width	36 Width
Body Weight	7.9kg
Noise Level	79dB
Hose with integrated wand	Yes
Height Adjustment	Yes - 4 level - manual
Non-slip Belt with Overload Protection	Yes
Supplied Tool and Attachments	None - Separate Purchase

Expert and User Consensus

• Reliability: The most frequently praised aspect is its robust, high-grade ABS plastic construction, which is built to withstand heavy commercial use. Experts and users report machines lasting 10, 15, or even 20 years with proper maintenance, which justifies a higher initial cost compared to flimsier domestic vacuums.

• Superior Cleaning Performance: The twin-motor design (separate motors for suction and the brush roll) is universally seen as a major advantage, providing excellent agitation and deep cleaning, especially on various carpet types. Users often comment that it picks up dirt and pet hair that other vacuums miss, leaving carpets looking visibly cleaner.

• Ease and Economy of Maintenance: Both professionals and domestic users appreciate the simple, effective maintenance features. The brush strips are easily and economically replaceable without tools, and a "trap door" allows for quick clearing of blockages, minimising downtime and repair costs.

• Simple Operation: Users appreciate the straightforward, no-frills design, with reviewers noting "no fancy gadgets, no crazy touch button controls" but excellent performance and a long cord, and large 5-litre filter bags reduce the frequency of stopping to change sockets or empty the machine, enhancing cleaning productivity

• Value for Money: Although the initial cost may be higher than domestic models, its long life and performance mean it pays for itself over many years.

• Weight: Some users note that it can be slightly heavier than typical domestic vacuum cleaners. Take a look at the Sebo Dart vacuum cleaner model for a more lightweight commercial option.

• Included Accessories: While the machine is impressively functional, tools and extension hoses often need to be purchased separately, as they do not come standard with the base unit.

Sebo BS460 Upright Vacuum Cleaner

What is the life expectancy of a Sebo BS360 vacuum cleaner?