Choosing the Best Vacuums for Pet Hair

Owners of pets like dogs and cats know the constant struggle with pet hair. It accumulates in corners, covers floors, furniture, and even your clothes. To combat this persistent challenge, having the right vacuum is essential. Experts suggest investing in a high-quality vacuum to easily tackle pet hair.

Finding the Best Vacuums for Pet Hair

Guided by expert recommendations, we have curated a list of vacuums perfect for handling pet hair. This list includes upright, cordless, and handheld models suitable for various floor types. Brands like Dyson, Bissell, and Tineco consistently come highly recommended by both experts and pet-owning NBC Select staff.

Features to Look for in a Vacuum

When evaluating vacuums, there are key factors to consider to effectively combat pet hair:

• Filter Type: A filter’s efficiency in trapping microscopic particles like pet dander, pollen, and allergens is crucial. Most top choices use HEPA filters or proprietary systems.
• Anti-Tangle Brush: A brush head that prevents pet hair from tangling ensures smooth operation and prolongs the vacuum’s life.
• Automated Brush Rolls: These rolls spin automatically to pick up pet hair and deep-clean carpets efficiently. However, ensure these can be turned off for delicate hard floors.
• Attachments: Multiple attachments, like upholstery cleaners and crevice tools, are essential for reaching tight spaces.
• Battery Life and Cord Length: Look for a cord length of at least 25 feet or battery life ensuring at least 40 minutes for full-size models.
• Multi-Floor Compatibility: Choose models that perform well on various surfaces like carpet, wood, and tile.
• Bagless Design: A dustbin system is more convenient for frequent cleaning compared to bag replacements.
• Bin Capacity: Larger bins require less frequent emptying, ideal for multi-pet homes.
• Size: Whether upright, cordless, or handheld, opt for a size that fits your storage space and weight preference for portability.

Top Vacuum Recommendations

Here are some of the best-rated vacuums for tackling pet hair:

Best Overall Vacuum for Pet Hair

The Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Lift-Off excels with a HEPA filter to trap dust and pet fur effectively. It includes a self-cleaning brushroll, LED headlights, and necessary attachments for versatility beyond floor cleaning.

Best Vacuum Under $200

The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is lightweight yet powerful, with an anti-tangle brush roll for dealing with embedded pet hair in various fabrics. Its ease of use features include a one-button dustbin emptying system and a crevice tool.

Best Shark Upright Vacuum

Popular with NBC Select readers, this powerful corded model excels at sucking up pet hair, dirt, and debris. It’s great for larger areas due to its size but requires strategic storage in smaller spaces.

Best Dyson Upright Vacuum

The Dyson Ball Animal 3 features a rolling brush to manage hair efficiently. It’s equipped with a dog grooming tool, a 35-foot cord, and offers various suction modes suitable for different floor types.

Best Canister Vacuum

Kenmore’s canister model boasts a two-motor system for robust suction and includes a telescoping wand and swivel head for cleaning elevated and hard-to-reach spots.

Best Stick Vacuum for Pet Hair

For households with multiple pets, Tineco’s model stands out with its lightweight build and convertibility to a handheld device. Its automatic dirt sensor and adjustable suction power offer efficient hair and debris removal.

Best Self-Emptying Vacuum

Shark’s lightweight cordless vacuum features odor-neutralizing technology and automatic emptying, making it especially convenient for frequent use in small spaces.

Best Handheld Vacuum Options

Bissell’s handheld vacuums, including lightweight models recommended by experts, offer quick and efficient removal of pet hair from various surfaces, storage areas, and cars.

Buying Tips for Pet Hair Vacuums

While many vacuums advertise specifically for pet hair, choosing a high-quality model with the necessary features can be equally effective. Features like HEPA filters, anti-tangle brush heads, and essential attachments ensure your vacuum can handle extra pet hair, dust, and dirt with ease.

“The advantage of pet vacuums is they generally come with extra tools that make cleaning easier and more efficient.” – Carl Prouty, Product Specialist at Abt

Proper Vacuum Maintenance

Regular cleaning of your vacuum’s parts is vital for optimal performance, especially when fighting pet hair. Regular maintenance, such as washing filters and brush rolls, prevents clogs and maintains suction power.