Pet hair can be a persistent problem in homes with furry friends.
While our pets bring us joy and companionship, their fur can create a challenging mess of clingy particles that settle on floors, furniture, and clothing.
The key to maintaining a pet-friendly home is finding the right vacuum cleaner designed to tackle pet hair effectively.
This guide will share our thorough testing and help you find the most optimal vacuum cleaner for your needs.
Best Vacuum for Pet Hair
Best Overall Vacuum Cleaner For Pet Hair: Dyson V15 Detect
Best Vacuum System with Debris Disposal: Shark WS642AE WANDVAC System
Best Cordless Pet Hair Vacuum: Dyson V10 Cordless
Best Lightweight Cordless Pet Hair Vacuum: Hoover ONEPWR Evolve
Best Bagless Canister Vacuum For Pet Hair: Miele Blizzard CX1
Best Upright Pet Hair Vacuum: Dyson Ball Animal 3
Best Bagged Pet Hair Vacuum: Kenmore 600 Series
Best Robot Pet Hair Vacuum: iRobot Roomba j7+ (7550)
Best Handheld Pet Hair Vacuum: Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus
Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
The Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner shines in its performance, especially for pet owners seeking a powerful and intelligent cleaning solution.
Pros
- Powerful and intelligent cordless vacuum
- Laser reveals microscopic dust
- Up to 60 minutes of run-time
Cons
- High price point
- Takes a while to charge (270 minutes)
- Slightly heavy for a cordless vacuum (6.8 pounds)
We recently had the chance to use the Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, and as pet owners, we were delighted with its performance. Its powerful suction pulled up an impressive amount of pet hair from various floor types, making our home noticeably cleaner.
One standout feature of this vacuum is the laser illumination, revealing hidden dust on hard floors. We were astonished by the amount of microscopic dust particles we had unknowingly left behind with our previous vacuum cleaner. The LCD screen also displays real-time data, such as the picked-up particles and remaining run-time, which added a sense of accomplishment to our cleaning routine.
Although the Dyson V15 Detect is cordless, it still managed to deliver up to 60 minutes of run-time. We appreciated the power-saving trigger, maximizing battery life and only using power when needed. However, we noticed the charging time was quite long (270 minutes), requiring some planning for extended cleaning sessions.
Weighing in at 6.8 pounds, the Dyson V15 Detect is slightly heavier compared to other cordless vacuums. But its performance, advanced features, and versatility more than made up for the extra weight. Converting to a handheld vacuum for cleaning cars, stairs, and upholstery was a game-changer for us.
- The most powerful intelligent cordless vacuum.¹ With laser illumination.
- Engineered for whole home, deep cleans. Suction power, run time and tools designed to deep clean your whole home. Engineered for homes with pets.
- Up to 60 minutes of run time.³ Power saving trigger helps maximize battery life, only using power when you need it. Actual run time will vary based on power mode and/or attachments used.
- Laser reveals microscopic dust. A precisely angled laser makes invisible dust visible on hard floors, so you don’t miss anything.
- Intelligently optimizes suction and run time based on dust level and floor type. A Piezo sensor and Dyson DLS technology automatically sense debris level and floor type to adapt suction for the right balance of power and run time when you need it.²
Shark WS642AE WANDVAC System
This powerful and lightweight vacuum is perfect for pet owners who want hands-free debris disposal and efficient cleaning performance.
Pros
- Powerful suction in a lightweight design
- Self-emptying base with HEPA filtration
- Effective cleaning on various surfaces
Cons
- May require multiple emptying during heavy cleaning sessions
- Occasional clogs in the tube section
- Some users reported it stopped working prematurely
We recently tried the Shark WS642AE WANDVAC System, and it has quickly become a favorite among pet owners like us. This cordless stick vacuum offers exceptional cleaning, especially on pet hair, thanks to its HyperVelocity suction power and PowerFins brushroll. The self-emptying HEPA-sealed base ensures an easier and more hygienic debris disposal process, significantly reducing dust exposure.
The vacuum’s lightweight design, at just 2.1 pounds, makes it incredibly easy to maneuver while cleaning various surfaces. With a single touch, we could easily switch between cleaning modes from floor to above-floor cleaning. The PowerFins technology enables deep-cleaning performance on carpets and efficient agitation on hard floors, while the self-cleaning brushroll effectively handles pet hair without causing any hair wraps.
One of the downsides we encountered is that the vacuum needs to be emptied two or three times during heavier cleaning sessions. However, the self-emptying base still holds up to 30 days’ worth of dust and debris, which minimizes frequent manual emptying. Additionally, a few of us experienced occasional clogs in the tube section, although they were easy to address. Lastly, some users mentioned that the vacuum stopped working after a short period of use, which could potentially be a durability issue.
- POWERFUL and LIGHTWEIGHT: Hypervelocity accelerated suction packs incredible power into an ultra light 2.1 lb. hand vac.
- QUICK CLEAN ANYWHERE: Versatility for on the floor and above floor cleaning easily switch between cleaning modes with only one touch.
- DITCH THE DIRTY WORK: Wandvac automatically empties itself into a HEPA sealed base after every clean for hands free debris disposal. No more daily trips to the trash bin – the base holds up to 30 days of dust and debris.
- UP TO 100x LESS DUST EXPOSURE VS. TRADITIONAL EMPTY: Fine dust and debris go straight to the self empty base and are completely sealed keeping irritants from being released back into the air you breathe.
- DEEP CLEANING TECHNOLOGY: PowerFins technology for continuous cleaning contact to dig deep into carpets and directly engage hard floors.
Dyson V10
The Dyson V10 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner is a must-have for pet owners who need deep cleaning and cord-free convenience.
Pros
- Powerful suction, 55% more than the Dyson V7
- Up to 60 minutes of runtime
- Advanced whole-machine filtration
Cons
- Pricey compared to other cordless vacuums
- Longer charging time (210 minutes)
- Can be a bit noisy at 78 dB
The Dyson V10 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner has made our cleaning routine so much easier, especially when it comes to tackling pet hair. With its powerful suction and torque drive cleaner head, we noticed it removed 25% more dust from carpets compared to our previous Dyson V8 vacuum. The 14-cyclone concentric array ensures that the vacuum never loses suction, trapping even the finest particles for a cleaner home.
One of the standout features of the V10 is its ability to quickly transform into a handheld vacuum for quick cleanups, spot cleaning, and those hard-to-reach places. The mini-motorized tool comes in handy for removing pet hair and dirt from upholstery and tight spaces. The vacuum also comes with three cleaning modes for optimal performance on any floor type.
We were impressed with the runtime of up to 60 minutes, allowing us to deep clean our entire home without needing to recharge. However, the 210-minute charging time could be a drawback for some users who would prefer a quicker charge. While using the vacuum, we did find it to be a bit noisy at 78 dB, which might be a concern for users who are sensitive to noise.
- Powerful suction to deep clean everywhere. 55% more suction than the Dyson V7.
- Dyson technology helps create a cleaner, healthier home - Our vacuums and purifiers are scientifically proven to capture particles as small as and .
- Engineered for whole-home, deep cleaning. Suction power, run time and tools designed to deep clean your whole home.
- 3 Cleaning modes. For the right power where you need it.
- Up to 60 minutes of run time. Actual run time will vary based on power mode and/or attachments used..Torque drive cleaner head. Drives bristles deep into the carpet to remove ground-in ..Advanced whole-machine filtration. Traps 99.99% of particles, and as small as 0.3 microns..4 Dyson engineered tools for versatile whole-home and car cleaning. Including the mini-motorized tool for removing pet hair from upholstery and tight spaces..Converts to a handheld for cleaning cars, stairs and upholstery.14-cyclone concentric array. Cyclones generate centrifugal forces up to 79,000 grams trapping fine and in the bin, so your vacuum never loses suction.
Hoover ONEPWR Evolve
The Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet Cordless Vacuum is a solid choice for pet owners seeking an efficient and lightweight cleaning solution.
Pros
- Cordless and lightweight design
- Effective at removing pet hair
- Suitable for both carpet and hard floors
Cons
- Battery life could be longer
- On/off button placement may be inconvenient
- Slightly awkward when cleaning stairs
We were pleasantly surprised at how effective the Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet Cordless Vacuum was at tackling stubborn pet hair and dirt throughout our homes. With its lightweight design (less than 9 lbs when lifted and feeling like 2 lbs when in use), we could easily maneuver around furniture and transition between rooms without the hassle of a cord.
This vacuum not only targets pet hair but also works seamlessly on different surfaces. With the touch of a button, we could turn the brushroll on or off, making it perfect for both carpets and hard floors. The larger dirt cup capacity, three times that of a stick vacuum, allowed us to clean for longer periods before needing to empty it.
The only drawback we found was the battery life, which didn’t last as long as we would have liked. However, the powerful suction and convenient rubber brush compensated for this issue. Additionally, the vacuum’s on/off button placement was slightly inconvenient, causing accidental turn-offs mid-cleaning.
- CORDLESS: Delivers cord-free convenience with the removable and rechargeable ONEPWR 4.0 Ah MAX battery.Charge Time 3-4 hours. Yes Battery Amp Hours 4.0
- PERFECT FOR PETS: Tackle stubborn pet hair and dirt through out the home
- ULTRA LIGHTWEIGHT : Weighs less than 9 lbs when you lift it, feels like 2 lbs when you recline it and start vacuuming(1)
- HOLDS 3X MORE DIRT AND PET HAIR: Larger dirt cup capacity than a stick vacuum for less trips to the trash can (2)
- PERFECT FOR CARPET AND HARDFLOOR: On/Off brushroll helps effortlessly transition from carpets to hard floors with the touch of a button
Miele Blizzard CX1
This Miele vacuum is a top choice for pet owners looking for powerful suction and a bagless design that makes maintenance a breeze.
Pros
- Strong suction power with 4 adjustable settings
- Vortex technology ensures thorough dust capture
- HEPA lifetime filter and self-cleaning function
Cons
- A bit heavy at 19 pounds
- Dust container capacity is limited
- The noise level can be high at 72 dB
Using the Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog Bagless Canister Vacuum has made a noticeable difference in our experience dealing with pet hair. It handles various surfaces with ease, from carpets to hard floors, thanks to the different suction power settings it offers. The vacuum also comes with a handheld turbo brush, specifically designed for removing pet hair from upholstery.
The vortex technology in this vacuum has been impressive in terms of cleaning performance. Both coarse and fine dust are effectively captured, and the emptying process is much easier compared to other bagless vacuums we’ve tried. One feature we particularly appreciated was the maintenance-free HEPA Lifetime Filter and Gore CleanStream Fine Dust Filter, which ensured excellent filtration and sustained suction power.
While the Miele vacuum is a reliable and powerful cleaning tool, some aspects could be improved. The vacuum is on the heavier side, weighing 19 pounds, which may be an issue for those needing a portable or easily maneuverable vacuum. Additionally, the dust container could be larger to avoid the need for frequent emptying. Finally, the vacuum can be relatively noisy, registering 72 dB, which could be bothersome in certain situations.
- PET VACUUM: Bagless canister vacuum with strong suction power. Ideal for pet owners and all flooring types. Switch between 4 suction power settings for different surfaces
- VORTEX TECHNOLOGY: Innovative cleaning performance, ensuring all coarse and fine dust is captured while cleaning
- HEPA LIFETIME FILTER: Maintenance-free HEPA Lifetime Filter and Gore CleanStream Fine Dust Filter ensure top-notch filtration
- ELIMINATE PET HAIR: Handheld Turbo Brush designed with pet owners in mind. Perfect for removing pet hair from upholstery
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: SEB 228 Electro Plus Floorhead, SBB 300-3 Parquet Twister Floorhead, Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool and Handheld Turbo Brush
Dyson Ball Animal 3
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra is an excellent choice for pet owners seeking a high-performance vacuum with cutting-edge hair de-tangling technology.
Pros
- Exceptional cleaning performance for an upright de-tangling vacuum
- Convenient hair de-tangling technology
- Smooth navigation with Ball technology
Cons
- Not suitable for short hair types
- Slightly heavier than other models
- Pricey compared to other vacuums
After using the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra for some time, we can confidently say that it lives up to its reputation. Its ability to effortlessly pick up pet hair from various surfaces is truly astonishing. The hair de-tangling technology works like a charm, automatically clearing wrapped hair from the brush bar as we cleaned.
Navigating around furniture and obstacles in our home was a breeze thanks to the Ball technology. With a simple turn of the wrist, we could easily maneuver the vacuum for precise cleaning. The three cleaning modes were also a huge plus, as they allowed us to optimize our cleaning routine depending on the floor type.
However, we did notice that this vacuum isn’t the best option for short hair types, as the pet grooming tool seems to be designed for medium to long hair only. Additionally, the vacuum is slightly heavier than other models we’ve tried, which may be a concern for some users. Lastly, it’s worth mentioning that the price tag is on the higher side when compared to other vacuums in the market.
- The best cleaning performance of any upright de-tangling vacuum.¹
- Engineered for larger homes with pets. Removes dirt and pet hair around your home. Easily tackles big messes. With two additional specialized pet tools.
- De-tangling technology. Automatically clears wrapped hair from the brush bar as you clean.
- Specialized pet tools. Pet groom tool for medium and long-haired pets.² Tangle-free turbine tool removes pet hair from upholstery and cars.
- Ball technology. Navigate around obstacles with a simple turn of the wrist. For easy, precise maneuvering around your home.
Kenmore 600 Series
We recommend this vacuum for pet owners seeking a lightweight, powerful, and versatile cleaning solution.
Pros
- Strong suction with 2-motor system
- Pet PowerMate attachment for efficient pet hair removal
- Triple HEPA filter system
Cons
- Requires bags for canister
- More plastic components compared to older models
- Hose handle could be more comfortable
This Kenmore 600 Series vacuum has amazed us with its powerful 2-motor system that excels in suction strength. The versatile attachments, including an exclusive Pop-N-Go floor brush, make it easy to clean various surfaces, from carpets to hard floors. The Pet PowerMate motorized attachment lifts stubborn pet hair and dirt efficiently, eliminating the issue of tangled hair around the brush.
We appreciate the vacuum’s enhanced triple HEPA filter system, which traps 99.97% of dirt, ensuring a clean and allergen-free environment. The lightweight aluminum telescoping wand can extend up to 10 feet, allowing for easy access to challenging areas.
However, we noticed a few drawbacks. The canister requires bags, which might not be ideal for everyone. Additionally, the vacuum is more lightweight due to the increased use of plastic components compared to older models, which may raise concerns about durability. Lastly, the hose handle could be more comfortable for an improved user experience.
Nonetheless, we think the Kenmore 600 Series Bagged Canister Vacuum with Pet PowerMate is an excellent option for pet owners in search of a powerful, lightweight, and versatile cleaning solution.
- BAGGED CANISTER VACUUM: Multipurpose design w/swivel head cleans all areas and surfaces in your home, den, kitchen, car and garage.Suction power(hose end) ≥183W. Number of Amps 12.Cleaning Width (in.) : 14, Features : Multi Surface.
- POWERFUL CLEANING: 2-motor system excels in suction strength and includes 2 floor nozzles with exclusive Pop-N-Go floor brush. 3 additional attachments are included: crevice tool, dirt brush and bare floor tool
- TRIPLE HEPA FILTER SYSTEM: Enhanced HEPA filter traps 99. 97% of dirt, trapping dirt inside the vacuum
- PET POWERMATE & POP-N-GO BRUSH: Motorized attachment lifts stubborn pet hair, and dirt quickly from surfaces. Eliminates hair from tangling around the brush.Stores inside vacuum, attaches to handle and wand in a snap for bare floor cleaning
- ALUMINUM TELESCOPING WAND: Adjustable lightweight wand lengthens to an extended reach of 10. ' to access difficult areas. Lightweight at 22. 6 lbs, 28' cord is retractable, accessories and attachments fit within vac
iRobot Roomba j7+ (7550)
The iRobot Roomba j7+ makes pet hair cleanup a breeze with its powerful suction and smart navigation while emptying itself for up to 60 days.
Pros
- Efficiently avoids pet hair and waste
- Smart mapping for customized cleaning
- Self-emptying feature for less maintenance
Cons
- Price point might be high for some budgets
- May require occasional manual intervention
- Limited to one-hour battery life
We recently tried the iRobot Roomba j7+ and found it to be a fantastic solution for pet owners dealing with constant hair buildup. The smart navigation system ensures it avoids obstacles such as pet waste and wires, while the powerful suction easily lifts pet hair from various surfaces.
The vacuum’s smart mapping technology lets you schedule multiple cleanings and designate specific rooms for added convenience. This feature also allows the Roomba j7+ to store maps of different levels in your home, making it easier to clean each floor.
One of the most significant selling points of the Roomba j7+ is its self-emptying feature. It empties itself for up to 60 days, saving you time and energy on vacuum maintenance. The enclosed bag system in the Clean Base keeps dust out of sight and your hands clean.
Although the Roomba j7+ can be quite an investment, we believe its performance and features outweigh the cost for pet owners. The only minor drawbacks we experienced were occasionally needing to intervene if it got stuck and a one-hour battery life that may require recharging during larger cleaning tasks.
- CLEANS THE WAY YOU WOULD, BUT INSTEAD OF YOU DOING THE WORK, IT DOES IT ALL FOR YOU - Based on your preferences, habits, home and even the seasons, it combines insights and technology to learn how you clean and create a personalized cleaning experience - like cleaning more frequently during pet-shedding or allergy seasons. Now that's Genius.
- Box Content: 1 Roomba j7+ Robot Vacuum, 1 Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal, 4 Dirt Disposal Bags, 1 North American Line Cord, 1 Extra High-Efficiency Filter, 1 Extra Side Brush
Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus
Efficiently handle pet hair and clean hard-to-reach spaces with Shark’s powerful cordless handheld vacuum.
Pros
- Powerful suction and long-lasting motor life
- Self-cleaning Pet Power Brush prevents hair wrap
- Lightweight and portable (2.8 lbs)
Cons
- Limited battery runtime (10 minutes)
- Charging time is 4 hours
- Dock is not included in the box
The Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus is an excellent choice for pet owners who need a portable solution for tackling pet hair all around the house. Its powerful cyclonic air streams provide robust suction, which is essential for keeping your home clean.
We were particularly impressed with the detachable self-cleaning Pet Power Brush, as it effectively eliminates hair without causing it to wrap around the brushroll. This vacuum also features a washable filter and an easy, hands-free CleanTouch dirt ejector that simplifies the emptying process.
However, one drawback to this Shark handheld vacuum is its limited battery runtime of 10 minutes. This may not be enough for larger cleaning tasks, and you’ll need to plan for the four-hour charging period. Additionally, the dock is not included in the package, which might be an inconvenience for some users.
- Two ultra-powerful cyclonic air streams for incredible suction and long-lasting filter and motor life.
- Detachable self-cleaning Pet Power Brush eliminates hair wrap from the floor, upholstery, and the brushroll.
- Features an XL dust cup to tackle big jobs.
- Lightweight and portable at only 2.8 lbs.
- Contains a washable filter for easy cleanup.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best vacuum for pet hair, there are several factors to consider in selecting the ideal product. In this buying guide, we aim to provide you with the essential features to look for in making the perfect choice.
Suction Power
A vacuum’s suction power is crucial in effectively picking up pet hair. Look for models with adjustable suction settings, particularly those designed to handle pet hair on various surfaces. The higher the suction power, the better the vacuum will be at removing pet hair from carpets and upholstery.
Filtration System
A good filtration system is essential to ensure that pet hair and allergens are trapped inside the vacuum and not released back into the air. Look for vacuums with HEPA filters, as these are the most effective in capturing small particles such as pet dander and allergens.
Brush Types
Different brush types can be more effective in dealing with pet hair. When choosing a vacuum, consider the following types of brushes:
- Motorized brushes: These brushes actively spin to assist in lifting pet hair from carpets and upholstery. They can be more effective than non-motorized brushes for deep cleaning.
- Rubberized brushes: These brushes are designed to attract and capture pet hair, making them an excellent choice for dealing with stubborn pet hair problems.
Size and Weight
It’s important to choose a vacuum that is both easy to maneuver and lightweight. This is especially true if you’ll be carrying it up and down stairs or cleaning multiple floors. A vacuum that is heavy or cumbersome will often make it more challenging to clean every corner of your home.
Capacity
Choosing a vacuum with a large dustbin or bag capacity can save you time, as you won’t have to empty it as frequently. Additionally, bagless models can be more attractive for pet owners, as they are often easier to empty and clean.
By following this buying guide and considering these important features, selecting the best vacuum for pet hair can be a much easier process. Keep these points in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect vacuum to handle pet hair and keep your home clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most affordable vacuum for pet hair?
We believe that the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Handheld Vacuum is a fantastic affordable option for pet hair removal. It’s lightweight and portable yet powerful enough to clean pet hair from various surfaces.
Which vacuum works best on tile floors and pet hair?
The Shark Navigator Freestyle Upright Stick Cordless Bagless Vacuum (SV1106) stands out as a great option for tile floors and pet hair. Its powerful suction and easy maneuverability make it efficient on hard surface floors.
Which vacuum is ideal for multi surfaces and pet hair?
Our top pick for a multi-surface vacuum for pet hair is the Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum Cleaner. It can seamlessly transition between hard floors and carpets, and the powerful suction easily removes pet hair.
What is the top vacuum for pet hair on hardwood floors and carpets?
The Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog Vacuum Cleaner is a top contender for pet hair on both hardwood floors and carpets. With its adjustable suction, it can effortlessly switch between different floor types for optimal cleaning.
Which upright vacuum is most effective for pet hair?
For upright vacuums, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional (NV356E) is highly effective at removing pet hair. Its lift-away feature and advanced brush roll technology make it a versatile and efficient vacuum.
What is the best vacuum for pet hair and allergies under $300?
We recommend the Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance Pet Upright Vacuum (UH72630) for those with allergies and a budget under $300. Its HEPA filtration system efficiently captures allergens, making it a solid choice for pet owners with allergy concerns.