Black and Decker Platinum 20v Flex Hand Vac Review

If you need a very versatile handheld vacuum that has the capability of doing a variety of jobs from house to car to boat and more, take a look at the new Black and Decker Platinum Lithium Ion Flex BDH2020FLFH. While the name is a mouthful, it really is one of the best handheld vacuums on the market today and is a great value because it does so much.

Black and Decker Platinum 20v Flex Hand Vac Review

Last update on 2024-09-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Black and Decker Hand vac Power

This Black and Decker Flex Platinum Edition is not only more powerful than the regular FHV1200 Flex model (which has only 12v), the battery lasts much longer as well. The regular Flex lasts about 10-12 minutes on a full charge, whereas the Platinum version can last twice as long.

Some vacuum brands recommend not leaving the unit charging at all times when it is not in use, but that’s not the case with this model. Black and Decker claims there is no battery memory effect with this model, so the integrated battery will last just as long if you run the charge down all the way, or if you just use it a little bit, then put it back on the charger or leave it off. In other words, the smart charge technology means it can’t be “overcharged”. Overall, the Platinum Flex should hold a charge up to 18 months if not used.

Last update on 2024-08-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This little handheld vac also holds its power. Many of its competitors start off strong but fade quickly. With this one, you’ll find the suction is just as strong even after it’s been running for a while. In user reviews, one of the main comments is that battery power is amazing.

Black and Decker Hand vac 20v Pet Hair

This highly rated Black and Decker hand vac works great on pet hair, especially when you use the included rubberized pet hair tool that is specifically designed for getting that sticky dog and cat hair off upholstery. In fact, one review says the user bought the Flex because she has a long haired cat, and she says it works wonderful for that purpose.

Also, since it has a HEPA filter, small particles like those from pet dander, dust, pollen and mold end up in the dust bin instead of back in the air for you to breathe. This is so important if anyone in your household suffers from allergies.

Daily Use

In user reviews, buyers are really happy with the versatility of the BDH2020FLFH (the model number for the Black & Decker Platinum Lithium Ion Flex). Since it comes with several attachments that conveniently store on the base, it can be used for a wide variety of jobs around the house. With the rubberized pet tool, you can easily get hair up from fabrics and upholstery.

The combination nozzle/brush tool works great for getting into corners and cleaning things like ceiling fans, exhaust fans and cleaning blinds and getting the dust off them. Of course, you can also use the dusting brush for dusting instead of using a rag, which usually just spreads the dirt around or makes it fly back up in the air.

The crevice tool is great for getting into tight spaces (like between the cushions in your car and under the seats) as well as going over the top of baseboards.

Also, at less than 4 pounds, this lightweight vac is a great choice for anyone who has trouble maneuvering a heavier vacuum cleaner. Because of the expandable hose, you can even leave the unit sitting on the floor while you use the hose (which extends to 4’ long) with the tools, making it great for small jobs of all kinds, including either hardwood floors or carpets. It works exceptionally well for cleaning stairs (even carpeted ones) without the hassle of lugging out the big machine.

Tools & Accessories Included

• 4’ flexible hose
• Pet hair tool with rubberized bristles
• Combination nozzle/dusting brush
• Crevice tool
• Charging base

Specs

• Dimensions: 10.25″ x 11.94″ x 7.69″
• Weight: 3.8 pounds
• Filter: Washable with HEPA filter
• Battery: Rechargeable 20v Lithium Ion
• Voltage: 110
• Battery Level Indicator: Blue Light
• Warranty: 2 years
• Owner’s Manual

Storage

The Black & Decker Platinum Lithium Ion Flex comes with a charging base that not only charges the vacuum cleaner but also stores all the tools. The charger plugs directly into the base, and the handheld vac sits on the base.

The base cannot be mounted, so you do need to have a place to set it. This is only a concern if you are really cramped for storage space and need something that you can hang on the wall. If this is the case, the Dyson DC59 Motorhead and the Shark Rocket Ultralight are really great options.

Pros

• Great on-board tools with long hose for a variety of uses
• Good run time
• Easy storage with everything in one place

Cons

In user reviews, one of the few concerns is the charge time. If the battery is completely drained, it takes 3-4 hours to completely recharge it. For this reason, it’s a good idea to keep it on the charging base when not in use so you don’t have to wait for it to get charged enough for use. For most people, this won’t be an issue, since they will store it on the base and only use it for small jobs, so the battery will likely never die mid-cleaning.

Final Thoughts

Of course, this little handheld black and decker 20v vacuum are not a Dyson. In fact, you cannot even fairly compare the two brands due to the superior performance of Dyson vacuum cleaners. However, if a Dyson busts your budget, this Black and Decker cordless vacuum 20v is a great inexpensive alternative. At less than a third of the price, it still has the power you need to get the job done from vacuuming up pet hair from upholstery to kitty litter from hardwood floors to picking up breakfast cereal if the kids make a mess.

Overall, vs other cordless bagless handhelds, this one blows most of them out of the water. You can do so much with it, it has a nice long run time without the hassle of a cord, and you can count on the battery to last a good long time, which is why users rate it so high.

If you need an affordable option for quick cleanup or getting into areas your big vacuum won’t go, the Platinum Flex will be a good investment for you. It’s a good choice versus its competitors and gets really high ratings. Overall, it’s money well spent to get one.