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Shark IONFlex 2x DuoClean Review

Derek Hales

Written By: Derek Hales

Updated on:

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Shark IONFlex 2x DuoClean

The Shark IONFlex 2x DuoClean is a powerful cordless stick vacuum with multiple brushrolls, a few cleaning modes, and a great degree of maneuverability. This vacuum is able to bend 90°, giving it the ability to slide under furniture with ease. The IONFlex DuoClean does a great job of vacuuming on carpeted / hard surfaces. In addition, it can be converted to a handheld vacuum. One of the premiere cordless stick vacuums on the market.Check Price

Pros

  • The Shark IONFlex 2x has a tremendous level of flexibility for maneuvering
  • Multiple cleaning modes make this vacuum a versatile unit all around

Cons

  • The Shark struggles with finer debris types on hardwood surfaces
  • The soft brushroll on this vacuum tends to fling debris on top of the vacuum

Prefer to watch rather than read? We’ve got the full Shark IONFlex DuoClean video review here:

YouTube video

Shark IONFlex 2X DuoClean Design

The Shark IONFlex 2X DuoClean has a basic stick vacuum design with a few extra design points.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum

What’s the main breakdown?

The Shark IONFlex vacuum includes the following components

  • Handheld body
  • Wand
  • Cleaning head
  • Removable battery

While the design of this vacuum may seem more complex, it is actually quite simple:

As a stick vacuum, the Shark IONFlex simply snaps together. As a result, it has a standard stick vacuum configuration.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum Usability
The Shark IONFlex is a 2-in-1.
Shark IONFlex in handheld mode
Shark IONFlex in handheld mode

For example, you can remove the wand and main cleaning head, converting the Shark vacuum into a handheld. Once in handheld mode there are a variety of different attachments (see below).

IONFlex Aesthetics

The IONFlex is one of the coolest looking vacuums we have seen to date. The blue color scheme is sharp and gives this vacuum quite the sleek appeal when combined with the gray pops of color that Shark dropped into the vacuum.

How does the Shark IONFlex DuoClean vacuum work?

The Shark IONFlex vacuum works through a simple process. Two brushrolls are located within the main cleaning head and are used to agitate, lift, and remove dirt and debris from your floors.

Shark IONFlex 2x Duoclean brushroll

Depending on the cleaning mode selected by the user, the IONFlex will change its suction power and brushroll speed. For example, on hardwoods the suction power is not as strong as on a carpeted surface, but the softer brushroll plays a large role.

That said, when placed in carpet cleaning mode, the multi-surface brushroll is the more important of the two brushrolls, as it works to dig deeper with a stronger level of agitation.

Size & Dimensions

The Shark IONFlex DuoClean vacuum is a bit taller than most other stick vacuums we have tested.

How big is the vacuum?

  • 46” tall
  • 13.4” wide
  • 8.7 lbs.
Size and dimensions of the Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum

Accessories and Parts

The Shark IONFlex DuoClean includes a few extra parts and accessories:

Crevice tool included with the Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum

CREVICE TOOL | The Shark IONFlex includes a crevice tool which allows users to dig into the deeper corners and crevices of the home.

Dusting brush included with the Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum

DUSTING BRUSH | A small dusting brush is also included, giving users the opportunity to dust and vacuum more delicate surfaces.

Dusting wand included with the Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum

DUSTING WAND | Similar to the dusting brush, the dusting wand is good for capturing dust around your home. This tool is actually slimmer than the dusting brush, allowing users to dust harder to reach places.

Charger included with the Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum

CHARGER | A charging base is also included with the Shark. Remove the battery from the vacuum and attach it to the charging base as needed.

Combo upholstery tool included with the Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum

UPHOLSTERY TOOL | The upholstery tool is a combo tool that comes with firmer bristles and a removable face for a more versatile cleaning tool.

Shark IONFlex Features

The Shark IONFlex 2x Duoclean stick vacuum has a slightly different set of features than most stick vacuums.

Cleaning Modes

Although a stick vacuum, this Shark does have the ability to switch into bare floor (hardwoods, tile, etc.) and carpet cleaning modes. By doing so, this vacuum is able to adjust its cleaning power and brushroll spin automatically when placed on the surface.

Shark IONFlex 2x DuoClean cleaning modes

Additionally, the Shark IONFlex has two power modes, standard and MAX suction mode. As the name suggests, the MAX suction mode adds power to the degree of suction, offering a deeper level of cleaning.

RELATED – Want to see more from Shark? Give our Best Shark vacuums guide a read.

Multiple Battery Packs

The Shark 2X IONFlex DuoClean vacuum includes not one, but two battery packs.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum Battery

Therefore, users can be charging one of the battery packs while the other is being used. This is a major bonus as you shouldn’t have to worry about not having a fully charged battery during a clean. 

That said, you should note that not all models include 2 batteries. The IF251 includes 2 battery packs. If you don’t want to pay extra for the 2nd battery you can get the IF205 model, which is the same vacuum, but only 1 battery.

Handheld Mode

While this vacuum is primarily used as a stick vacuum, it does have the ability to be turned into a handheld as well. Users can remove the main cleaning wand and cleaning head and attach a smaller cleaning tool, making it a handheld.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum Handheld Mode

This is great for those users who are in need of a vacuum that can clean well on the floor, as well as spot clean around the home. With quite a few extra cleaning tools, the variety of cleaning styles is a really nice extra.

Cleaning Performance

The cleaning performance of the Shark IONFlex DuoClean vacuum was incredibly strong on all cleaning surfaces. 

Overall

98%

Hardwood

98%

Low Carpet

97%

High Carpet

99%

Hardwood Floor Cleaning

The Shark IONFlex DuoClean performed well on the hardwood floor tests, but we did see a slight struggle with the sugar test.

Results:

Rice, kitty litter, and cereal were simply no match for the Shark IONFlex on our hardwood floor tests.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum Hardwood Floor Cleaning Test

That said, the sugar test was a bit of a surprise. As we pushed the vacuum over the sugar the softer brushroll had a tendency to fling the sugar up on top of the vacuum’s cleaning head. This resulted in less of the sugar being cleaned up, but it was not a dramatic difference from the rest of the field.

RELATED – What’s the best vacuum for hardwood floors?

Rice

100%

Cereal

100%

Kitty Litter

100%

Sugar

93%

Low Pile Carpet Cleaning

The low pile carpet test was similar to the hardwood, with similar issues for the sugar test.

How much of a change was this test?

Once again, rice and cereal were no match for the IONFlex vacuum.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum Low Pile Carpet Cleaning Test

Sugar dropped off a bit as compared to the hardwood floor test, going from 93% cleaned up to 90% removed. The difference was not huge, but it does mean 10% of the total sugar placed on the carpet did remain within the pile.

Rice

100%

Cereal

100%

Kitty Litter

99%

Sugar

90%

High Pile Carpet Cleaning

As we moved onto the high pile carpet, we saw the best cleaning performance yet.

What was the final outcome?

The Shark IONFlex was nearly perfect on the high pile carpet test. Rice, kitty litter, and cereal all hit 100% and sugar reached a level of 98% cleaned up.

This was a bit of a surprise after the hardwood floor and low pile carpet test.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum High Pile Carpet Cleaning Test

That said, as we were working through the high pile carpet test, we noticed that this Shark vacuum increased its suction power on its own. Therefore, as we were pushing the vacuum across the carpet, the four debris types were not able to beat the Shark IONFlex as it increased its power and sucked up nearly every piece of debris sprinkled across the lane.

In the end, these were all results of the Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x being used in stick mode. We did test this vacuum in handheld mode as well and found that as a handheld, the Shark was able to dominate our cleaning tests and pick up the remaining debris from the testing lane.

Rice

100%

Cereal

100%

Kitty Litter

100%

Sugar

98%

Usability & Maneuverability

Usability and maneuverability on the Shark IONFlex stick vacuum are fantastic.

Using this stick vacuum is fairly straightforward:

  1. Charge the vacuum’s battery packs
  2. Choose stick or handheld cleaning modes
  3. Insert the battery
  4. Turn on and select cleaning mode at the back of the vacuum’s main body

The setup is quick and painless. Once everything is removed from the box you will need to snap in the cleaning head and wand into the handheld portion of the vacuum.

After completing these steps, you can jump into 1-4 listed above and begin using the vacuum.

Shark IONFlex 2x Duoclean maneuverability
The Shark IONFlex can flex in the middle, allowing it to reach under furniture and other obstacles.

How’s the IONFlex maneuverability?

The Shark IONFlex vacuum is one of the most impressive stick vacuums we have tested to date, with regard to maneuverability.

As stated in the name, this Shark vacuum is flexible. At the middle of the main wand, there is a release button that allows the vacuum to bend at 90°, making it much easier to clean under and around furniture and other obstacles.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum Flexibility

This is the first vacuum we have seen that contains the ability to do this, so it was neat to see the ways in which this vacuum can move around.

RELATED – What is the best vacuum for carpet?

Handheld Mode

Lastly, the Shark IONFlex is a 2-in-1 vacuum. The vacuum can be convereted to handheld mode, making it perfect for spot cleaning, cleaning cars, or cleaning anywhere else that a stick vacuum doesn’t quite go.

Shark IONFlex 2x in handheld mode
Shark IONFlex 2x in handheld mode

Shark IONFlex Maintenance

There are a few tasks required by the user in order to maintain this Shark stick vacuum.

The following tasks need to be completed in order to properly maintain this vacuum:

  • Replace the filter
  • Clear both brushrolls from tangles
  • Empty dustbin
Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x Vacuum Filter

RELATED – Shark vs. Dyson, the Ultimate Comparision.

Is the Shark IONFlex a good value?

The value of the Shark IONFlex 2x is excellent. It is a bit more spendy than some other stick vacuums we have tested, but it is also versatile, a strong performer, and includes two batteries.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x

With regard to cleaning performance, the overall score was great. There were some issues with our sugar test, but these issues were fairly minor and easily resolved by the handheld mode.

Maneuverability is certainly a strong suit of the IONFlex.

With the ability to bend 90° in the middle of the main wand (while in stick mode) and turn into a handheld vacuum is nothing shy of impressive.

This gives users tons of options when cleaning around their home.

In the end, this Shark stick vacuum is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a versatile stick vacuum with multiple battery packs, a strong cleaning performance, and a well rounded level of versatility, the IONFlex DuoClean 2x could be a nice addition to your home.

Shark IONFlex DuoClean Specifications

Below you’ll find a complete table listing the important facts and features about the Shark IONFLex 2x DuoClean vacuum cleaner:

Specifications
TypeStick
ManufacturerShark
ModelIONFlex DuoClean 2x
Width (inches)13.4"
Height46"
Weight8.7 pounds
Floor TypeAll (indoor)
FilterWashable
Dust Bin0.3L
CordlessYes
Battery Size2450 mAh
BaglessYes
ReturnsVaries by retailer
Warranty1-Year limited
PriceCheck Price

Who Should Buy the Shark IONFlex 2X DuoClean Vacuum?

The Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x vacuum could be a great fit for a wide variety of users. This vacuum can be used as both a handheld and stick vacuum and has a strong cleaning performance.

Shark IONFlex is best for:

  • Want a 2-in-1 stick vacuum: Although considered a stick vacuum, the IONFlex  has the ability to be broken down into a handheld as well. This gives users the opportunity to maneuver around their home and clean in many different scenarios.
  • Want multiple battery packs: Probably the biggest benefit of this vacuum is the second battery included. Instead of having a single battery and having to wait for it to charge, users can charge the second battery while using the first one and continue to swap back and forth. This virtually doubles the overall run time of the Shark IONFlex DuoClean vacuum.
  • Want a strong performer: Overall, this Shark vacuum offers a strong cleaning performance on all indoor floor types. Throughout our cleaning tests we saw a total average score of 98%, which is among the best we have seen to date.

For more information on the Shark IONFlex DuoClean vacuum, see here.

Why did the Shark IONFlex stick vacuum score the way it did?

  • Design – 2-in-1 design, flexible pivot of the handle, lots of accessories. The IONFlex does a lot right. One notably complaint is the way the cleaning head flings sugar.
  • Performance – Not flawless, but pretty close.
  • Quality – Easily the best Shark vacuum we’ve tested to date in terms of quality. Compares similarly to the feel of Dyson.
  • Usability – again, 2-in-1 design and pivot handle are really nice. Lots of accessories and attachements also.
  • Value – at about half the price of the Dyson V10, but only a little worse in terms of performance, the Shark IONFlex is an exceptionally good value.
  • Design - 96%
    96%
  • Performance - 98%
    98%
  • Quality - 95%
    95%
  • Usability - 95%
    95%
  • Value - 96%
    96%
96%

Summary

The Shark IONFlex 2x DuoClean vacuum is a powerful, versatile, and impressive stick vacuum. This stick vacuum includes a spare battery, essentially doubling the run time of the unit. Additionally, the IONFlex can be used as a handheld vacuum and includes a variety of cleaning tools and accessories. If you’re looking for a new 2-in-1 vacuum cleaner, the Shark IONFlex DuoClean 2x may be the right choice for you.

About Derek Hales

Derek HalesDerek Hales is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ModernCastle.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, She Knows, and other major publications. Derek has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Kansas State University. Hales has been testing and reviewing products for the home since 2014.