Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Vacuum Cleaners Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best for Pet Hair
- 3. Best for Small Spaces
- 4. Most Versatile
- 5. Best Value
- 6. Runner-Up
- 7. Best Compact
- 8. Best Lightweight
- 9. Best Splurge
- 10. Best Budget
- Vacuum Cleaners Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Vacuum Cleaners
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
The best vacuum cleaner for pet hair is the BISSELL CleanView Compact. It has powerful suction and a special extension wand to reach tricky spots. For a solid value choice, consider the Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight. You give up some advanced features to save money, but it still does a great job on floors.
Most buyers face a choice between a lightweight model and one with more power. This page will guide you through your options and help you decide.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 10
Top 10 Vacuum Cleaners Reviewed in Detail
Here are detailed reviews of the best vacuum cleaners suited for pet hair. We analyze top options to help you find the right one.
1. Top Pick
Bissell CleanView Compact, Powerful Suction & Extension Wand, 3508
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- POWERFUL SUCTION WITH SCATTER-FREE TECH. Engineered to capture messes on hard floors with less scatter and powerful suction on carpets. Enjoy a convenient, highperformance clean in one machine.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN. Weighing less than 8 pounds, this vacuum is easy to carry and store. Perfect for dorms, apartments, and small living spaces without sacrificing cleaning power.
- REMOVABLE EXTENSION WAND. Features a quick-release wand to easily clean abovefloor surfaces like curtains, upholstery, and baseboards. Tackle dirt and debris in tight spaces with ease.
- EASY EMPTY DIRT CONTAINER. The bagless design allows for quick and mess-free emptying with the push of a button. Keep your hands clean and your home debris-free.
The BISSELL CleanView Compact offers powerful suction. It uses scatter-free technology for hard floors. You can clean carpets easily with this machine. The extension wand reaches tight spaces. It is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Pros
Good for pet hair. Powerful suction for carpets and hard floors. Lightweight design.
Cons
The dust cup is small. Frequent emptying may be needed.
This vacuum suits pet owners who want a lightweight option for quick clean-ups.
The BISSELL CleanView Compact is an efficient vacuum for pet hair and hard-to-reach areas.
2. Best for Pet Hair
Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, NEU10AE5
- POWERFUL ALL FLOOR SUCTION: The Eureka NEU10AE5 upright vacuum cleaner effortlessly extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets ease. The 10.5” wide cleaning path of this household vacuum cleaner helps cleaning larger areas quickly and with ease.
- QUICK RELEASE HANDLE FOR ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING: This upright vacuum cleaner best rated have crevice tool and dusting brush which can be attached to the end of the handle for cleaning upholstery, windows and other hard to reach places.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY STORAGE: Weighing only 7.7 pounds, this small vacuum cleaner can be carried anywhere with ease, while its compact and featherweight design allows this bagless vacuum cleaner to be stored in any space in your home when not in use.
- EASY MAINTENANCE & ENVIROMENTAL FRIENDLY: This vacuum cleaner pet hair contains washable filter which can be rinsed and left to dry for no maintenance costs. Use our vacuum upright to embrace eco-friendly cleaning without compromising on effectiveness.
- ALL TOOLS ON BOARD: This vacuum cleaner for home pets includes a crevice tool and dusting brush which snaps on the vacuum and are within reach at any time during cleaning. Simplify your cleaning routine while maximizing convenience with our upright vacuum cleaner best rated.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight vacuum provides strong suction. It cleans both carpets and hard floors well. The wide cleaning path helps cover more area quickly. You can easily switch to above-floor cleaning. It is lightweight, making it easy to carry.
Pros
Wide cleaning path covers more area. Lightweight design helps with maneuverability. Effective on pet hair.
Cons
It may not have enough power for deep cleaning carpets. Some users find it less durable over time.
Ideal for those who need a lightweight vacuum for everyday cleaning tasks.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is a solid choice for pet owners needing versatility.
3. Best for Small Spaces
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Pet Hair, White/Silver, NV356E
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hardwood floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum cleaner lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, and more—attach the dusting brush or crevice tool to clean dust and debris from upholstery, baseboards, curtains, blinds, and other surfaces.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction removes pet hair, dander, and debris from carpets, upholstery, and stairs—ideal for homes with pets.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps 99.9%* of dust and allergens**. *Based on ASTM F1977 (0.3 microns+), tested by IBR Laboratories per ASTM F1977-22 standard test method of a vacuum cleaner system, 2024. **Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hardwood floor vacuum mode with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- EXTRA-LARGE DUST CUP FOR EXTENDED CLEANING: 0.87L capacity supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, 8″ Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum features strong suction for all surfaces. It easily lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair. The lift-away functionality makes cleaning stairs and furniture easier. This vacuum is lightweight, which adds to its convenience.
Pros
Strong suction on multiple surfaces. Lift-away feature for above-floor cleaning. Lightweight design.
Cons
The hose may feel short for some users. It can be bulky to store.
This vacuum works well for pet owners needing an adaptable cleaning tool.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a versatile vacuum that handles various cleaning tasks efficiently.
4. Most Versatile
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Carpet and Pet Hair, Blue, NV360
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hardwood floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum cleaner lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, and more—attach the upholstery or crevice tools to clean dust and debris from baseboards, curtains, blinds, tight spaces and other surfaces.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction and a specialized upholstery tool removes pet hair from carpets, furniture, and stairs with ease—ideal for homes with pets and everyday messes.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps dust and allergens* inside the vacuum, helping deliver a cleaner home environment. *Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hardwood floor vacuum mode with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: 0.9-quart dust cup supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum, Upholstery Tool, Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV360 is similar to its sibling model. It excels at cleaning carpets and hardwood floors. You can detach the pod for hard-to-reach areas. This vacuum also features strong suction for pet hair.
Pros
Effective on both carpets and hard floors. Lift-away functionality is handy. Lightweight for easy use.
Cons
Some users find the dust cup small. It may require frequent emptying.
Good for pet owners seeking a powerful vacuum for different surfaces.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV360 is a reliable choice for cleaning pet hair and more.
5. Best Value
KARDV Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, 500W/40Kpa Vacuum Cleaners for Home, 60Mins Stick Vacuum with LED Display, Anti-Tangle Wireless Vacuum, 8 in 1 Lightweight…
- 【500W/40Kpa Powerful Suction】 The cordless vacuum cleaner is equipped with a powerful 500W motor, which provides a superb suction power of 40Kpa in MAX mode. The vacuum cleaner can instantly capture dust, debris, pet hair and stains on carpets, hardwood floors and tiles for truly efficient cleaning.
- 【60Mins Long Runtime】The cordless stick vacuum cleaner is built-in high-capacity removable batteries and 2-speed adjustable suction, it can last for 60 minutes of efficient cleaning in the MIin mode (Max mode: 20-25 minutes), and a single charge can meet the daily cleaning needs. Say goodbye to the trouble of frequent charging!
- 【V-Shape Anti-tangle Flexible Floor Brush】 Hardwood floor vacuum cleaner is equipped with a V-shaped anti-tangle roller brush, which effectively solves the problem of long hair and pet hair entanglement. The upgraded green LED light and rotatable floor brush accurately detects and cleans dirt and dust hidden in dark places such as underneath furniture, perfect for families with pets.
- 【Smart LED Display】The wireless vacuum cleaner has a sensitive button touch sensor system and a new colorful smart display. You can touch the screen to adjust the suction power level, read the important information of the cordless vacuum cleaner in real time such as suction mode, remaining power, and brush winding reminder to enjoy smart cleaning.
- 【Multi-functional Handheld Vacuum Cleaner】Lightweight cordless vacuum cleaner comes with 8-in-1 multi-functional accessories, with different accessories to combine into a multi-functional handheld vacuum cleaner, which can clean curtains, beds, sofa crevices, pet cushions, car seats, etc., to meet your multi-functional cleaning needs.
- 【High Efficiency Filtration System】The cordless vacuum adopts a fully sealed multi-layer filtration system, the home vacuum cleaner can capture 99% of fine particles (>0.1μm) and 95% of ultra-fine particles (<0.1μm), and the outlet discharges purified and clean air, preventing the secondary pollution of the air, which is very friendly to families with children and pets.
- 【1.5L Large Dust Cup & Wall-mounted Charging】 Rechargeable cordless vacuum cleaner 1.5L removable dust cup with one-touch emptying design, no need to empty it frequently. The upgraded rechargeable wall mount allows you to charge your vacuum cleaner at any time, so you never have to worry about forgetting to charge your vacuum cleaner!
The KARDV Cordless Vacuum Cleaner offers powerful suction with a 500W motor. It captures dust, debris, and pet hair effectively. The cordless design allows for easy movement. It has a long runtime of up to 60 minutes.
Pros
Cordless design for easy maneuverability. Strong suction power. Long battery life.
Cons
The charging time may be long. It can be heavy for some users.
This vacuum is suitable for those wanting a cordless option for quick clean-ups.
The KARDV Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful choice for easy cleaning with pets.
6. Runner-Up
Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floors, Washable Filter, Crevice and Upholstery Tools, Detachable Handle, Lightweight, 1.7L…
- EASY MANEUVERABILITY: At only 8.4 lbs and with an 25-ft power cord, this lightweight vacuum cleaner for home offers easy movement and convenient clean-up.
- VERSATILE CLEANING: These household vacuum cleaners include upholstery and crevice tools to clean various surfaces and tight spaces, as well as a detachable handle
- LARGE CAPACITY DUST CUP: These vacuum cleaners for carpets and floors have a 1.7L dust cup that allows for longer cleaning without frequent emptying, and features a quick-release button for easy disposal of collected debris
- WASHABLE FILTER: This upright vacuum cleaner includes a washable filter for long-lasting performance and easy maintenance
The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum is lightweight at just 8.4 lbs. It features a 25-ft power cord for easy movement. The washable filter helps maintain cleanliness. This vacuum includes tools for various surfaces.
Pros
Lightweight for easy use. Washable filter for low maintenance. Versatile cleaning tools included.
Cons
It may lack strong suction on thicker carpets. Smaller dust cup can require frequent emptying.
Great for pet owners needing a simple vacuum for light clean-ups.
The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum is a practical option for quick everyday cleaning.
7. Best Compact
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, HEPA, Pet Hair, Lavender, NV352
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hard floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, upholstery, and more—attach the upholstery or crevice tools to clean dust and debris from baseboards, curtains, blinds, tight spaces and more.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction and a wide upholstery tool removes pet hair from carpets, furniture, and stairs with ease—ideal for homes with pets and everyday messes.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps dust and allergens* inside the vacuum, helping deliver a cleaner home environment. *Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hard floor cleaning with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: 1.04L dust cup supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, Wide Upholstery Tool, 12″ Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 offers multi-surface cleaning. It has strong suction for carpets and hard floors. The lift-away feature helps reach difficult spots. This vacuum is designed to handle pet hair with ease.
Pros
Strong suction for effective cleaning. Handy lift-away feature for hard-to-reach areas. Lightweight and easy to use.
Cons
Some users report it can be noisy. The dust cup may fill quickly.
This model fits pet owners needing a reliable vacuum for multiple surfaces.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 is a dependable vacuum for homes with pets.
8. Best Lightweight
Shark Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum, XL Cup, Bordeaux/Silver, HV322
- 2-IN-1 STICK & HANDHELD VACUUM – Converts to a handheld vacuum for stairs, furniture, car interiors, and tight spaces. A small hand vacuum ideal for pet hair, couches, and above-floor cleaning.
- CARPET & HARD FLOOR CLEANING – Deep-cleans carpets while capturing debris on hardwood, tile, laminate, and bare floors—perfect for homes needing one versatile vacuum for multiple surfaces.
- POWERFUL CORDED SUCTION – This vacuum cleaner delivers nonstop corded power to deep-clean carpets, rugs, and bare floors for everyday performance throughout your home—no charging needed.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & VERSATILE DESIGN – Weighing under 10 lbs., this lightweight vacuum is easy to carry, steer, and store, making it ideal for quick cleanups, stairs, apartments, and whole-home cleaning.
- PET HAIR PICKUP – Easily remove pet hair and debris from carpets, stairs, and upholstery with the included Pet Multi-Tool and Crevice Tool. Powerful suction makes this an ideal pet vacuum for homes with dogs and cats.
- SWIVEL STEERING CONTROL – Advanced swivel steering makes this vacuum easy to maneuver around furniture, corners, and tight spaces for efficient cleaning with smooth control across all floor surfaces.
- LOW-PROFILE REACH WITH LED HEADLIGHTS – The slim floor nozzle easily cleans under couches, beds, tables, and cabinets, while bright LED headlights reveal hidden dust, debris, and pet hair in low-light and hard-to-see areas for a more thorough clean.
- XL EASY-EMPTY DUST CUP – The 0.68-quart dust cup holds debris for extended cleaning and empties in seconds with a mess-free design—no vacuum bags required.
- COMPACT FREESTANDING STORAGE – Detach the hand vac and clip it to the base of the wand for compact freestanding storage in closets, laundry rooms, or small spaces.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Shark Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum, Upholstery Tool, and Crevice Tool.
The Shark Rocket Pet Plus is a 2-in-1 vacuum. It converts from a stick vacuum to a handheld vacuum. This feature is useful for stairs and tight spaces. It cleans carpets and hard floors effectively.
Pros
2-in-1 design for versatile use. Ideal for cleaning pet hair. Lightweight for easy handling.
Cons
The dust cup is small and may need frequent emptying. Battery life can be limited for some users.
This vacuum is suitable for pet owners wanting flexibility in cleaning.
The Shark Rocket Pet Plus is a versatile option for tackling pet hair in various areas.
9. Best Splurge
Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, NEU10AE4
- Quick release handle for effortless above floor cleaning. Attach the crevice tool or dusting brush to the end of the handle for cleaning upholstery, windows and other hard to reach places.700.0 watts.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- Powerful all floor suction extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets ease. It’s 10.5” wide cleaning path gets the job done quickly
- Lightweight at only 7.7 pounds with its compact and featherweight design this vacuum can store in any space in your home and be carried anywhere
- Contains one washable filter which can be rinsed and left to dry for no maintenance costs
- Includes a crevice tool and dusting brush which snaps on the vacuum and are within reach at any time during cleaning
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight NEU10AE4 offers strong suction. It has a quick release handle for above-floor cleaning. This vacuum is lightweight, making it easy to handle. It cleans both carpets and hard floors well.
Pros
Easy to maneuver. Quick release handle adds convenience. Effective on pet hair.
Cons
It may not handle deep carpet cleaning as well. Some users find it less durable.
Great for those who need a lightweight vacuum for everyday cleaning tasks.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight NEU10AE4 is a solid choice for quick clean-ups and pet hair.
10. Best Budget
Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum, Triple Action Brush Roll, 3836
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- NEW 2024 MODEL WITH ACTIVE EXTENSION WAND. Clean hard-to-reach areas quickly and easily.
- SWIVEL STEERING. Maximize maneuverability to clean around furniture and corners.
- TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL. Loosens, lifts and removes embedded dirt and pet hair from multiple surfaces.
- SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY. Captures messes on hard floors with less scatter.
The BISSELL CleanView Swivel Vacuum features a triple action brush roll. This feature helps to lift pet hair and dirt effectively. The swivel steering allows for better maneuverability. It has an active extension wand for hard-to-reach areas.
Pros
Swivel steering for easy movement. Effective brush roll lifts pet hair. Extension wand reaches tight spots.
Cons
The vacuum can be bulky for some users. It may require frequent dust cup emptying.
This vacuum suits pet owners needing a powerful tool for various cleaning tasks.
The BISSELL CleanView Swivel Vacuum is a strong choice for tackling pet hair and other messes.
Vacuum Cleaners Compared Side by Side
The following table compares the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair options. It shows features, weight, and special functions. Use this to find the model that best fits your home needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Top Pick | BISSELL | $69.99 | Check |
| 2 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best for Pet Hair | Eureka | $69.91 | Check |
| 3 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Best for Small Spaces | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Most Versatile | SharkNinja | $149.99 | Check |
| 5 | KARDV Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | Best Value | Suzhou Ash-Clean lntelligent Technology Co.,Ltd. | $94.99 | Check |
| 6 | Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet… | Runner-Up | Amazon | $61.6 | Check |
| 7 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Best Compact | SharkNinja | $129.99 | Check |
| 8 | Shark Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum | Best Lightweight | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 9 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best Splurge | Eureka | $49.88 | Check |
| 10 | Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum | Best Budget | BISSELL | $119.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from various trusted sources, including product reviews, expert opinions, and reputable online retailers. We considered thousands of customer reviews to identify common features and issues. This helped us understand what users value most in a vacuum cleaner for pet hair.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 50 vacuum cleaners designed for pet hair. We filtered these based on suction power, weight, and user ratings. Only those with at least 4 stars and essential features made it to the final list, resulting in the top ten choices.
What we ruled out and why
Products that lacked strong suction or specific pet hair features were removed from consideration. We also eliminated any models with poor customer ratings or common complaints about reliability. This ensured that only the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair remained.
What we did not do
We did not test any vacuum cleaners ourselves, nor did we take lab measurements or create scores from personal experiences. All information is based on existing reviews and data from other credible sources. Therefore, every aspect mentioned is verifiable.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly, at least every six months. We review product availability and features to reflect any significant changes in the market. If new models are released, we will reevaluate our top picks accordingly.
How to Choose Vacuum Cleaners
Suction Power
Look for a vacuum cleaner with strong suction power, especially for pet hair. A good rule is to find one with at least 10 amps for uprights or comparable specifications in cordless models. This helps ensure it can pick up dirt and hair from various surfaces effectively.
Weight and Maneuverability
Consider the weight of the vacuum cleaner. If you need to lift it often or carry it upstairs, aim for a model under 10 lbs. Lightweight vacuums are easier to maneuver and help you clean efficiently without straining your back.
Filtration System
A good filtration system is essential for capturing pet allergens. Look for vacuums with HEPA filters, which trap small particles. This is especially important for allergy sufferers, as it can improve air quality while cleaning.
Attachments and Accessories
Check for useful attachments like pet hair brushes or crevice tools. These can make it easier to clean furniture and tight spaces. A vacuum that includes a variety of tools will increase your cleaning efficiency.
Corded vs. Cordless
Decide between corded and cordless options. Corded vacuums usually offer more power and run time, while cordless models provide flexibility and ease of movement. If you have a large home, a corded vacuum may be better, while a cordless option works well for small spaces.
What to look for
Suction Strength
Suction strength is critical for cleaning up pet hair. Models with at least 10 amps provide strong performance on carpets and hard floors. Look for those that mention their suction capabilities, especially if they handle fine hair and larger debris.
Weight and Design
The weight of a vacuum cleaner affects how easily you can use it. Aim for models below 10 lbs for easy handling. Consider design features like swivel steering or a lightweight frame to improve maneuverability around furniture.
Filtration Systems
Effective filtration is key to capturing allergens and pet dander. HEPA filters are recommended as they trap tiny particles. A good vacuum will specify its filtration type, helping you maintain better air quality.
Cleaning Path Width
The cleaning path width can impact how quickly you clean large areas. A wider path, around 10 inches or more, allows for faster cleaning, especially in large rooms. A narrower path can be beneficial for tight spaces but may slow down cleaning larger areas.
Versatility for Different Surfaces
Choose a vacuum that works well on both carpets and hard floors. Models with adjustable suction settings are better for this versatility. If you have a mix of surfaces, make sure your vacuum can handle transitions smoothly.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair?
The best vacuum cleaner for pet hair is the BISSELL CleanView Compact. It has powerful suction and an extension wand for hard-to-reach areas.
Are cordless vacuums good for pet hair?
Yes, many cordless vacuums are effective for pet hair. Look for models with strong suction power and a good battery life to clean without losing performance.
How do I clean pet hair from my vacuum?
To clean pet hair from your vacuum, unplug it and remove the brush roll. Use scissors to cut away hair tangled in the bristles. Check the filter and clean it if necessary.
Do I need a special vacuum for pet hair?
While you can use regular vacuums, those designed for pet hair have stronger suction and specialized tools. These features help effectively remove hair from carpets and furniture.
How often should I vacuum if I have pets?
If you have pets, aim to vacuum at least once a week. More frequent cleaning may be needed during shedding seasons to keep hair under control.
Shopping around? We have 76 more vacuum cleaner guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- ENERGY STAR clothes washers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
Similar guides
- 10 Best Vacuum Cleaner Cordless in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 10 Best Vacuum Cleaners in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 10 Best Vacuum Cleaners for Hardwood Floors in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 10 Best Cordless Vacuums in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 10 Best Pool Cleaner Robot in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 10 Best Rated Pool Vacuums in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
