Best Vacuums for Pet Hair: 2024 Top Choices Reviewed
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Are you constantly battling against pet hair in your home?
As a professional dog trainer, I’ve seen it all – from fur-covered sofas to hair-laden carpets.
But what if I told you there’s a way to turn this endless battle into a victory?
With my professional experience and personal insights, you’ll find the ideal solution to keep your home clean and your pets happy with the best vacuums for pet hair.
Let’s hop into a cleaner, more comfortable living space!
At a Glance:
 | Overall: Dyson v15 Review | $522 Buy It |
 | Handheld: Shark CH701 Review | $59 Buy It |
 | Upright: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Review | $219 Buy It |
 | Cordless: Dyson v8 Review | $349 Buy It |
 | Robot: Roomba j5+ Review | $659 Buy It |
 | Value: Bissell CleanView Review | $106 Buy It |
 | Bagged: Kenmore Intuition Review | $179 Buy It |
 | Canister: Kenmore Elite Review | $399 Buy It |
 | Deep-Cleaning: Bissell Pro Heat Review | $258 Buy It |
Best Vacuums for Pet Hair
Best Overall Vacuum: Dyson V15 Detect
The Dyson V12 Detect Slim is a versatile and lightweight cordless vacuum cleaner designed to effectively tackle pet hair and hidden dust. It’s equipped with a range of features, including a Hair screw tool, a Fluffy Optic cleaner head, and a Motorbar cleaner head, all engineered for efficiency and ease of use.
This model is known for its intelligent adaptability to different debris types. It is enhanced by an LCD screen that provides real-time data on particle pickup, power mode, and maintenance alerts.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Battery Life: While it offers 60 minutes of run time, heavy usage, especially in higher power modes, may reduce this significantly.
- Cost: As with many Dyson products, the price point may be higher than other brands.
- Bin Size: The bin might require frequent emptying for homes with multiple pets or larger areas due to its size.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Dyson V12 Detect Slim is an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a high-quality, versatile vacuum cleaner. Its specialized tools for pet hair and its lightweight, ergonomic design make it a standout for maintaining a pet-friendly home.
The advanced filtration system is a bonus for those concerned about allergens. While the cost may be on the higher side, this cordless stick vacuum boasts features and efficiency that make it a worthwhile investment for those dealing with the challenges of dog hair on a daily basis and an overall best vacuum on the market.
Best Handheld Vacuum: Shark CH701 Cyclone PET Handheld Vacuum
The Shark CH701 Cyclone PET Handheld Vacuum is a compact, lightweight device designed to tackle pet hair and deep cleaning.
Its standout feature is the HyperVelocity suction, which promises effective cleaning in a handheld format.
The vacuum weighs only 1.6 lbs and is enhanced by a USB charging feature, making it highly portable and convenient for on-the-go cleaning tasks.
It comes with a PetExtract Hair Tool and an 8″ Crevice Tool, tailored to address pet hair challenges.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Battery Life: Depending on the intensity of use, the battery may need frequent recharging.
- Limited Reach: As a handheld vacuum, it might not be suitable for larger floor areas or full-home cleaning.
- Suction Power vs. Size: While powerful for its size, it may not match the suction of larger, full-sized vacuums.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Shark CH701 Cyclone PET Vacuum is an excellent choice for those needing a lightweight, portable solution for pet hair removal. Its HyperVelocity suction and specialized PetExtract Hair Tool make it highly effective for quick cleanups on furniture, car interiors, and small spaces.
The convenience of USB charging and a large dust cup add to its appeal. While it may not replace a full-sized vacuum for extensive home cleaning, it’s an excellent supplemental tool for pet owners who need to tackle pet hair in hard-to-reach areas or on the go.
Best Upright Vacuum: BISSELL 24613 Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus
The BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is a lightweight and agile vacuum cleaner designed for pet owners.
It combines powerful suction and pet-specific features to effectively tackle pet hair and allergens.
The vacuum includes a Tangle-Free Brush Roll, a SmartSeal Allergen System with an optional Febreze filter, and specialized pet tools.
Additionally, every Bissell purchase contributes to the Bissell Pet Foundation, supporting its mission to help save homeless pets.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Dirt Cup Capacity: At 0.75 liters, it may require frequent emptying in homes with multiple pets or larger areas.
- Suction Control: While powerful, users may need to adjust the suction control for different surfaces.
- Optional Febreze Filter: While beneficial for odor control, the need for replacement filters can be an additional ongoing cost.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The BISSELL 24613 Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a versatile, lightweight vacuum cleaner. Its pet-specific features, such as the Tangle-Free Brush Roll and the SmartSeal Allergen System, make it highly effective against pet hair and associated allergens.
The hands-free emptying system is particularly beneficial for those who want a hygienic cleaning experience.
While the dirt cup capacity might be a limitation for some, its overall performance and ease of use make it a strong contender for keeping pet-friendly homes clean. Additionally, the support of animal welfare through each purchase adds a meaningful value to this product.
Best Cordless Vacuum: Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
The Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a versatile and powerful cleaning tool explicitly engineered for homes with pets.
This model is known for its powerful suction, lightweight design, and ability to easily convert to a handheld device. It features a de-tangling Motorbar cleaner head, making it efficient on carpets and hard floors.
The V8 also comes with a range of accessories, including a Hair screw tool designed for pet hair removal from various surfaces.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Charge Time: Requires a 5-hour charge time, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Run Time Limitation: While 40 minutes is adequate for many, more is needed for larger homes or more extensive cleaning tasks.
- Price Point: As with most Dyson products, the cost may be higher than other brands.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Dyson V8 is an excellent choice for pet owners looking for a powerful yet lightweight vacuum cleaner.
Its ability to tackle pet hair effectively, combined with user-friendly features like the no-touch bin emptying and whole-machine filtration, makes it a strong contender in the market.
While the run time and charge time may be a consideration for some, the overall performance and versatility of the V8 make it a worthwhile investment, especially for those with pets and the need for frequent, thorough cleaning.
Best Robot Vacuum: iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum & Mop
The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ is a sophisticated combination of a robot vacuum and mop designed to provide a comprehensive cleaning solution for homes, especially those with pets.
This model builds on the popular Roomba j7+ vacuum technology, offering the convenience of vacuuming and mopping with a simple bin switch.
It features advanced navigation and a 4-stage cleaning system to effectively pick up dirt and debris, as well as pet hair.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Complexity: The technology and features may require a learning curve for optimal use.
- Mopping Limitations: As with most robot mops, it may not be as effective as manual mopping for stubborn stains or corners.
- Dependence on App: Requires use of the iRobot Home App for full functionality, which may only be ideal for some users.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ is a cutting-edge solution for those seeking a hands-off approach to vacuuming and mopping, which benefits pet owners. Its self-emptying feature, advanced navigation, and dirt detection make it highly efficient for maintaining clean floors with minimal effort.
Avoiding pet waste and other common household obstacles adds to its appeal as a pet-friendly option.
While it might not completely replace traditional mopping for tough stains, its convenience and effectiveness make it a compelling choice for those looking to automate their home cleaning routine.
Best Value Vacuum: BISSELL 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum
The BISSELL 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum is tailored for efficient pet hair pickup with features designed to make pet mess cleaning easier.
It has swivel steering for maneuverability, a Triple Action Brush Roll for pet hair, and Scatter-Free Technology for hard surfaces and bare floors.
This model is particularly noted for its edge-to-edge cleaning ability and includes specialized pet tools, making it a comprehensive solution for pet owners.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Filter Replacement: Requires filter replacement every 6 months, which may be a recurring cost.
- Size and Weight: As an upright vacuum, it may be bulkier and heavier compared to smaller stick or handheld models.
- Noise Level: Upright vacuums can sometimes be louder, which might be a consideration for noise-sensitive pets or households.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The BISSELL 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum is a solid choice for pet owners seeking a reliable, practical tool for pet hair removal. Its swivel steering, triple-action brush roll, and specialized pet tools make it adept at handling various pet messes.
The Scatter-Free Technology and edge-to-edge cleaning ensure that no area is left unattended.
While it may require regular filter replacements and might be bulkier than other vacuums, its overall performance and ease of use make it a valuable asset for maintaining a clean, pet-friendly home.
Best Bagged Vacuum: Kenmore Intuition BU4022
The Kenmore Intuition BU4022 is a versatile, bagged upright vacuum with pet-friendly features and efficient cleaning technology.
Its standout feature is the Lift-Up technology, which allows easy conversion to a handheld vacuum for above-floor and stair cleaning.
The vacuum boasts No Touch Bag Technology, strong PowerFlow suction, and a high-grade HEPA filtration system, making it a comprehensive cleaning solution.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Bagged System: Requires regular purchase and replacement of bags, which can be an additional ongoing cost.
- Weight: While lightweight for an upright vacuum, it may still be heavier than stick or handheld models.
- Filtration Maintenance: To ensure optimal performance, the HEPA filter system may require regular checks and maintenance.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Kenmore Intuition BU4022 Bagged Upright Vacuum is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile, pet-friendly cleaning solution.
Its Lift-Up technology, powerful suction, and HEPA filtration make it well-suited for homes with pets and various cleaning needs.
The ease of bag disposal and comprehensive toolset further enhance its appeal.
While the bagged system and maintenance requirements are considerations, its overall performance and pet hair-cleaning capabilities make it a strong contender for maintaining a clean, healthy home environment.
Best Canister Vacuum: Kenmore Elite 81714 Pet-Friendly Lightweight Bagged Canister Vacuum
The Kenmore Elite 81714 is a versatile bagged canister vacuum designed with pet owners in mind.
It features a Pet PowerMate motorized attachment for effective pet hair removal and a HEPA filtration system to trap allergens.
The vacuum is suitable for cleaning surfaces, including carpets, floors, furniture, and car interiors. It is enhanced by its ultra-plush nozzle and telescoping aluminum wand.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Manual Pile Height Adjustment: Requires manual adjustment, which may not be as convenient as automatic systems.
- Weight: While lightweight for a canister vacuum, it may still be heavier than stick models.
- Bagged System: Involves ongoing costs for replacement bags and may not be as eco-friendly as bagless models.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Kenmore Elite 81714 is an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a versatile and effective cleaning solution.
Its pet-specific features, such as the Pet PowerMate attachment and HEPA filtration, make it highly effective for homes with pets.
The vacuum’s ability to clean various surfaces and user-friendly features, like a telescoping wand and variable power control, add to its appeal.
While the need for bag replacement and manual adjustments is a minor drawback, its overall performance and convenience make it a strong contender for maintaining a clean, allergen-reduced environment in pet-friendly homes.
Best Deep-Cleaning Vacuum: BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is an upright deep cleaner designed to tackle pet messes and to clean pet hair up that the vacuum may have missed.
It features a robust cleaning system with Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes and pet-specific tools.
This model is noted for its effectiveness in removing tough pet stains and odors. It is equipped with Heatwave Technology to maintain water temperature during cleaning.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Weight and Maneuverability: As an upright deep cleaner, it may be heavier and less maneuverable than lightweight models.
- Preparation Time: Requires filling with water and formula, which might be less convenient than traditional vacuums.
- Specific Use: Primarily designed for deep cleaning, there might be other options for quick daily cleanups.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is an excellent choice for pet owners who need a thorough cleaning solution for pet stains and odors.
Its powerful brushing action, heat technology, and specialized pet tools make it highly effective for deep cleaning.
The fast dry time and easy cleanup features add to its convenience.
While it may be more involved to set up and use than a regular vacuum, its deep cleaning capabilities make it a valuable tool for keeping homes with pets clean and fresh.
Best Manual Hair Remover: Deep Cleaner Pro Pet Hair Remover
The Deep Cleaner Pro Pet Hair Remover from LINTPLUS is a specialized tool designed to remove pet fur from various surfaces, including rugs, couches, cat towers, cars, and clothes.
It features a unique design with a pure copper blade processed through CNC (Computer Numerical Control) for precision and effectiveness.
This pet hair remover is touted for its durability, reusability, and ease of use.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Limited to Non-Knitted Fabrics: May only be suitable for some fabric types, especially knitted ones.
- Manual Operation: Requires physical effort, which might not be ideal for large areas or users with mobility issues.
- Maintenance: The copper blade may need regular cleaning to maintain its effectiveness.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
The Deep Cleaner Pro Pet Hair Remover is a practical and eco-friendly solution for owners looking to manage pet hair efficiently.
Its high-quality construction and design make it a durable and effective tool for various surfaces.
While it may require manual effort and is limited to certain fabric types, its portability, reusability, and cost-effectiveness make it a valuable addition to any pet owner’s cleaning arsenal.
Best Carpet Deodorizer: Arm & Hammer Carpet Pet Fresh Odor Eliminator
Arm & Hammer’s Carpet Pet Fresh Odor Eliminator is designed to tackle carpets and rooms’ odors.
Utilizing the odor-neutralizing power of baking soda, this product is specifically formulated to eliminate pet smells, freshen the air, and leave a pleasant scent.
Key Benefits
Potential Drawbacks
- Temporary Solution: While effective at neutralizing odors, it may not address the underlying cause of pet smells.
- Allergen Consideration: The scent or the product itself might irritate individuals with allergies or sensitivities.
- Residue: Depending on the carpet type, it may leave a residue that requires vacuuming or additional cleaning.
Meraki Dogs’ Final Thoughts
Arm & Hammer Carpet Pet Fresh Odor Eliminator is a convenient and effective solution for pet owners looking to manage pet odors in their homes.
Its baking soda-based formula makes it a safe and straightforward option for regular use.
While it offers immediate odor control, pairing it with regular cleaning and pet hygiene practices for long-term odor management is important.
This product is ideal for those seeking a quick, simple, and affordable way to keep their home smelling fresh despite the challenges of pet odors.
What to look for in a Pet Vacuum
I’ve seen my fair share of pet hair challenges as a seasoned dog trainer.
And let me tell you, not all vacuums are created equal when managing this furry dilemma.
Here are key factors to consider when selecting a vacuum that can stand up to the demands of pet ownership.
Pet Tools and Features
Including pet-specific attachments is not just a bonus; it’s essential for efficient pet hair cleanup.
For instance, a turbo brush or a mini motorized tool can dig deep into carpets and upholstery to remove pet hair entwined in the fibers.
Some models even come with grooming tools that can be used directly on your pet, collecting hair before it hits the floor.
It’s all about finding those features that transform a standard vacuum into a pet owner’s best friend.
Corded vs Cordless
The corded vs cordless debate is more than just about convenience; it’s about matching the vacuum to your lifestyle.
Cordless vacuums are a boon for quick cleanups and homes with many stairs or hard-to-reach places. Their lightweight design makes them easy to carry, reducing the physical strain of vacuuming.
However, cordless models rely on battery life, which can vary significantly between models.
On the other hand, corded vacuums offer uninterrupted power, which can be crucial for thorough cleaning sessions, especially in larger homes.
Filters
Delving deeper into filtration, a HEPA filter is not just about trapping pet hair; it’s about capturing up to 99.97% of all airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns.
This includes pet dander, pollen, and dust mites, making it an invaluable feature for maintaining air quality.
Some vacuums also feature charcoal filters to neutralize odors, which can be particularly beneficial in homes with pets.
Size and Weight
The ergonomics of a vacuum are essential in homes with complex layouts.
A bulky vacuum can be cumbersome to navigate through tight spaces or up and down stairs.
Lightweight and agile models can significantly ease this burden. Additionally, consider the available storage space – a compact design can be a big plus if storage is limited.
Flooring
It’s crucial to match the vacuum to your floor type.
For example, vacuums with a brush roll are great for carpets, as they can agitate the fibers to release pet hair.
However, a brush roll on hardwood floors can scatter debris and even cause scratches.
Some vacuums offer adjustable settings or brush heads for different floor types, providing the versatility needed for homes with multiple types of flooring.
Consider Your Pet
When shopping for a vacuum to manage pet hair and dirt in your home, it’s crucial to consider the specific needs arising from your pet type. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
- Type of Pet and Hair Type: Different pets have varying hair types, affecting the kind of vacuum you’ll need. For instance, a German Shepherd sheds more and has a different type of hair than a small breed with a hypoallergenic coat. You’ll need a vacuum that can handle your pet’s specific hair type, length, and shedding level.
- Shedding Level: Assess how much your pet sheds. Some breeds shed more than others, influencing the frequency and intensity of cleaning required. More shedding means a need for a vacuum with strong suction and a good filtration system.
- Grooming Frequency: Regular grooming can reduce the amount of pet hair and dander in your home. Consider how often you groom your pet, as this will impact the amount of pet hair your vacuum will need to handle.
- Dirt Tracking: Consider how much dirt your pet tracks into the house. A Labrador who enjoys outdoor play might bring in more mud and dirt than a Chihuahua. In such cases, look for a vacuum that can handle heavy-duty cleaning and possibly wet messes.
- Pet Size and Dander: Larger dogs tend to produce more hair and dander than smaller dogs or cats. However, cats, particularly long-haired breeds, can also shed a significant amount of hair and dander. Ensure the vacuum has a filtration system capable of trapping pet dander to maintain air quality.
In summary, the right vacuum for pet hair and dirt in your home should align with the specific characteristics of your pet and your living environment.
By considering these factors, you can choose a vacuum that efficiently manages pet hair, dander, and dirt, making your home cleaning process more effective and less strenuous.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bottom Line
In summary, managing pet hair and odors in your home effectively requires selecting the right tools.
From the Dyson V12 Detect Slim for powerful suction to the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution for deep cleaning, each vacuum caters to specific pet needs.
Additionally, the LINTPLUS Pet Hair Remover offers an eco-friendly approach to surface hair removal.
At the same time, the Arm & Hammer Carpet Pet Fresh Odor Eliminator efficiently tackles odors.
Choose the best fit for your needs and enjoy a cleaner, fresher home with your furry companions.
