Pets are a source of joy and companionship, but they also come with a less pleasant side effect: hair, and lots of it! For pet owners, keeping a clean home is often a constant battle against shedding. A good vacuum designed specifically for pet hair can be a game-changer, making it easier to maintain a tidy space. This article will guide you through the best vacuums for pet hair available in 2024, highlighting key features, pros and cons, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
Why You Need a Special Vacuum for Pet Hair
Pet hair can be particularly challenging to clean due to its fine texture and the tendency to get embedded into carpets and upholstery. Regular vacuums may not have the suction power or the specialized attachments necessary to effectively remove pet hair. Here’s why investing in a vacuum designed for pet hair is worth it:
- Powerful Suction: Pet hair vacuums typically offer stronger suction to lift hair from deep within carpets.
- Specialized Attachments: Many pet hair vacuums come with tools like motorized brushes, pet hair rollers, and upholstery tools that make cleaning easier.
- HEPA Filtration: These vacuums often include HEPA filters, which capture allergens and prevent them from recirculating into the air.
- Durability: Pet hair can clog up regular vacuums, but those designed for pets are built to handle the extra strain.
Top 7 Best Vacuums for Pet Hair in 2024
Dyson V11 Animal
The Dyson V11 Animal is a top contender for the best vacuum for pet hair. This cordless vacuum offers powerful suction and a range of features that make it ideal for pet owners.
Key Features:
- Suction Power: 185 AW (Air Watts)
- Battery Life: Up to 60 minutes
- Filtration: Advanced whole-machine filtration
- Weight: 6.68 lbs
Pros:
- Powerful suction for deep cleaning
- Cord-free convenience
- High-efficiency filtration system
- LCD screen displays real-time information
Cons:
- Expensive
- Battery life may not be sufficient for large homes
Best For: Pet owners looking for a high-performance, cordless vacuum that can handle a variety of surfaces.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional offers a combination of powerful suction and versatility, making it a great choice for homes with multiple types of flooring.
Key Features:
- Suction Power: Strong suction with adjustable power settings
- Weight: 13.7 lbs
- Filtration: HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
- Attachments: Pet Power Brush, Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush
Pros:
- Excellent pet hair removal on carpets and hard floors
- Detachable canister for portable cleaning
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to maneuver
Cons:
- Heavier than some other models
- Can be noisy
Best For: Pet owners seeking a versatile, budget-friendly vacuum with strong suction and HEPA filtration.
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is specifically designed to tackle pet hair and other stubborn debris, making it a favorite among pet owners.
Key Features:
- Suction Power: Powerful pet hair pick-up
- Weight: 13.75 lbs
- Filtration: SmartSeal Allergen System with optional Febreze filter
- Attachments: Tangle-Free Brush Roll, Pet TurboEraser Tool, Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush
Pros:
- Tangle-free brush roll
- Specialized pet tools
- Easy to empty dirt bin
- Includes a built-in Febreze filter to eliminate odors
Cons:
- Slightly heavier and bulkier
- Shorter cord length
Best For: Pet owners who need specialized tools to deal with hair on carpets and upholstery.
Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog
The Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog is a high-end canister vacuum that delivers superior performance on pet hair and allergens.
Key Features:
- Suction Power: Adjustable with six settings
- Weight: 23 lbs
- Filtration: Active AirClean filter with HEPA option
- Attachments: Mini Turbo Brush, Parquet Twister, Dusting Brush, Upholstery Tool
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality
- Strong suction with multiple settings
- Comes with a specialized pet hair tool
- Excellent filtration system
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavier and less portable
Best For: Pet owners looking for a premium vacuum that can handle heavy-duty cleaning and offers advanced filtration.
iRobot Roomba i7+
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is a smart robotic vacuum that takes the hassle out of cleaning pet hair by doing the job for you.
Key Features:
- Suction Power: Powerful suction with automatic adjustments
- Battery Life: 75 minutes
- Filtration: High-Efficiency Filter
- Special Features: Automatic dirt disposal, Smart Mapping, Voice Control
Pros:
- Hands-free cleaning
- Automatically empties its own bin
- Customizable cleaning schedules
- Learns and maps your home for efficient cleaning
Cons:
- Expensive
- May struggle with thick carpets
Best For: Tech-savvy pet owners who prefer a hands-off approach to vacuuming.
Hoover WindTunnel 3 High Performance Pet
The Hoover WindTunnel 3 is a powerful upright vacuum with strong suction and specialized pet tools to tackle hair on various surfaces.
Key Features:
- Suction Power: WindTunnel 3 Technology with three channels of suction
- Weight: 18.1 lbs
- Filtration: Carbon and HEPA media
- Attachments: Pet Turbo Tool, Pivoting Dusting Tool, Crevice Tool
Pros:
- Powerful suction with WindTunnel 3 technology
- Large dirt cup capacity
- Carbon HEPA filtration for odor reduction
- Long power cord
Cons:
- Heavy and less maneuverable
- Can be noisy
Best For: Pet owners who need strong suction power for deep cleaning large areas.
Eureka PowerSpeed Turbo Spotlight
The Eureka PowerSpeed Turbo Spotlight offers an affordable solution for pet owners, combining strong performance with a lightweight design.
Key Features:
- Suction Power: Powerful motor for effective cleaning
- Weight: 10 lbs
- Filtration: Washable filter
- Attachments: Pet Turbo Brush, Upholstery Tool, Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to use
- Budget-friendly
- Powerful suction for its price range
- LED headlights to spot hidden debris
Cons:
- Lacks advanced filtration
- May require more frequent maintenance
Best For: Pet owners on a budget who need a lightweight and effective vacuum.
Comparison Table: Best Vacuums for Pet Hair
Model | Type | Weight | Suction Power | Filtration | Special Features | Price Range |
Dyson V11 Animal | Cordless Stick | 6.68 lbs | 185 AW | Advanced Whole-Machine | LCD screen, cord-free | $$$$ |
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro | Upright | 13.7 lbs | Adjustable | HEPA, Anti-Allergen Seal | Detachable canister | $$ |
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo | Upright | 13.75 lbs | Powerful | SmartSeal Allergen System | Tangle-free brush roll, Febreze | $$ |
Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog | Canister | 23 lbs | Adjustable (6 settings) | Active AirClean | Mini Turbo Brush, premium build | $$$$ |
iRobot Roomba i7+ | Robot | 7.44 lbs | Powerful, Auto-adjust | High-Efficiency | Auto dirt disposal, smart map | $$$$ |
Hoover WindTunnel 3 High Perf. | Upright | 18.1 lbs | WindTunnel 3 Technology | Carbon & HEPA Media | Large dirt cup, long cord | $$ |
Eureka PowerSpeed Turbo Spot. | Upright | 10 lbs | Powerful motor | Washable filter | LED headlights, lightweight | $ |
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Vacuum for Pet Hair
Choosing the right vacuum for pet hair involves more than just picking the most expensive model. Here are some key factors to consider:
Type of Vacuum
- Upright Vacuums: Great for powerful suction and deep cleaning carpets.
- Canister Vacuums: Offer versatility and are easier to maneuver, especially on stairs.
- Cordless Stick Vacuums: Provide convenience and are ideal for quick clean-ups.
- Robot Vacuums: Perfect for hands-free cleaning, but may not have the deep-cleaning power of other types.
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In the quest for the best vacuum for pet hair, it’s essential to consider factors such as suction power, brush design, filtration system, and ease of maintenance. The right vacuum can make a significant difference in maintaining a clean and allergen-free home, especially for pet owners who deal with constant shedding. Models equipped with specialized pet hair attachments, strong suction capabilities, and advanced filtration systems are particularly effective at capturing and retaining pet hair and dander.
Ultimately, the best vacuum for pet hair will depend on your specific needs, including the size of your home, the type of flooring you have, and your budget. By selecting a vacuum that aligns with these criteria, you can ensure a cleaner, healthier environment for both you and your furry friends. Investing in a high-quality vacuum not only enhances your cleaning routine but also contributes to a more comfortable living space, free from the persistent challenge of pet hair.