The 5 Best Vacuum Cleaners for Pet Hair, According to Expert Testing

Today’s top pet hair vacuums pack serious fur-fighting power, with the Kenmore Elite 81714 leading the pack thanks to its specialized PowerMate attachment and HEPA filtration. You’ll love the BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser’s portable design, while the Shark ZU102 Rotator impresses with self-cleaning technology. The Bissell CleanView Swivel offers excellent value, and the budget-friendly Eureka PowerSpeed delivers surprising performance. Let’s explore what makes these machines the ultimate weapons against pet hair.

Kenmore Elite 81714 Pet Friendly Canister Vacuum

Pet parents struggling with furry tumbleweeds rolling across their floors will find their match in the Kenmore Elite 81714 Pet Friendly Canister Vacuum. You’ll love how this powerhouse tackles pet hair with its specialized Pet PowerMate attachment, which lifts even the most stubborn fur from carpets and furniture.

The vacuum’s HEPA filtration system captures 99.97% of allergens, so you won’t have to worry about those pesky pet dander particles floating around. With 20% more air power than typical uprights and handy LED sensors that show when you’re catching dirt, you’ll know exactly when your cleaning session is hitting the mark. Plus, it’s lightweight at 22 pounds and includes three attachments for those hard-to-reach spots where your furry friends love to hide.

Best For: Pet owners seeking a powerful, versatile vacuum with superior pet hair removal capabilities and advanced filtration for allergy sufferers.

Pros:

• Exceptional pet hair removal with specialized Pet PowerMate attachment
• Advanced HEPA filtration system captures 99.97% of allergens
• Versatile cleaning with three attachments and variable power settings for different surfaces

Cons:

• Relatively heavy at 22 pounds compared to some competing models
• Higher price point than basic canister vacuums
• Regular maintenance required, including bag changes and filter cleaning

BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum (2390A)

Dog and cat owners who’ve battled persistent fur on furniture will find their match in the BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum. With its powerful 14V lithium-ion battery and motorized brush tool, you’ll easily tackle those stubborn pet hairs that seem to weave themselves into your upholstery.

You’ll love how this 3-pound powerhouse comes with specialized tools for every furry situation. The triple-level filtration system catches all that pesky dander, while the easy-empty dirt bin means no messy cleanup. Though you’ll need to plan your cleaning sessions around its 17-minute battery life, the impressive 4.6-star rating from over 37,000 pet parents shows it’s worth every penny.

Best For: Pet owners looking for a lightweight, portable vacuum to tackle pet hair on furniture, stairs, and car interiors who don’t mind frequent recharging for shorter cleaning tasks.

Pros:

• Excellent pet hair removal with specialized motorized brush tool and triple-level filtration
• Lightweight and ergonomic design at just 3 pounds makes it easy to maneuver
• High customer satisfaction with 4.6/5 stars from over 37,000 reviews

Cons:

• Short 17-minute battery life limits cleaning time
• Long 8-hour charging time requires planning ahead
• Small dirt bin capacity of 0.18 gallons needs frequent emptying during bigger cleaning jobs

Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum

Living with furry friends who shed constantly can feel like a never-ending battle against hair, but the Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum tackles this challenge head-on. You’ll love how its PowerFins HairPro technology grabs even the most stubborn pet hair, while the self-cleaning brushroll prevents those annoying hair tangles that plague other vacuums.

What really sets this vacuum apart is its odor-neutralizing technology and HEPA filtration system. You’ll breathe easier knowing it’s trapping 99.99% of allergens, and the extra-large capacity means you won’t have to empty it constantly. With its 12-foot extendable hose and swivel steering, you’ll reach those pesky fur balls hiding behind furniture or lurking on your stairs.

Best For: Pet owners seeking a powerful, versatile vacuum that effectively tackles stubborn pet hair while managing allergens and odors in homes with multiple floor types.

Pros:

• Outstanding pet hair removal with PowerFins HairPro and self-cleaning brushroll that prevents hair wrap
• Excellent filtration system with HEPA filter and complete seal technology, trapping 99.99% of allergens
• Convenient features like 3XL capacity, 12-foot extendable hose, and built-in odor neutralizer

Cons:

• May be bulkier and heavier than some competing models
• Premium features come with a higher price point
• Limited to one odor neutralizer cartridge included, requiring future replacements

Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum (2024 Model)

Families struggling with stubborn pet hair will find their match in the Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum’s Triple Action Brush Roll technology. You’ll love how it expertly loosens, lifts, and removes embedded fur from every surface in your home, while the swivel steering helps you glide around furniture like a pro.

What’s really impressive is the vacuum’s reach – with a 12-foot extension wand, you won’t have to perform any circus acts to clean those pesky cobwebs. The HEPA filter traps allergens, and the XL dirt tank means fewer trips to the trash. Plus, every purchase helps save homeless pets, so you’re cleaning your home and making a difference at the same time.

Best For: Pet owners and families needing a powerful, versatile vacuum that can handle stubborn pet hair while maintaining good air quality through HEPA filtration.

Pros:

• Excellent pet hair removal with Triple Action Brush Roll technology
• Extended reach with 12-foot wand and swivel steering for hard-to-reach areas
• HEPA filtration system captures allergens while supporting pet welfare through purchases

Cons:

• Relatively heavy at nearly 17 pounds, which might be challenging for some users
• Single speed setting limits cleaning customization options
• 1-liter capacity may require frequent emptying for larger homes

Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner (NEU181A)

Pet owners seeking an affordable yet powerful vacuum solution will find their match in the Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright. At just 10 pounds, you’ll breeze through your cleaning routine without breaking a sweat, and the robust 960-watt motor tackles everything from stubborn pet hair to everyday dirt.

You’ll love the convenience of the large 2.6-liter dust cup, which means fewer trips to the trash bin during your cleaning sessions. The included Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, and dusting brush are right at your fingertips, stored onboard for those moments when you need to switch from floor cleaning to tackling pet hair on furniture and hard-to-reach corners.

Best For: Pet owners on a budget who need a lightweight yet powerful vacuum for multiple floor types and pet hair cleanup.

Pros:

• Exceptionally lightweight at 10 pounds, making it easy to move between rooms and floors
• Large 2.6L dust cup capacity reduces the frequency of emptying
• Complete set of onboard tools including specialized pet attachments

Cons:

• May not be as durable as more premium vacuum models
• Limited reach with standard cord compared to cordless options
• Basic design may lack advanced features found in higher-end vacuums

Factors to Consider When Choosing Vacuum Cleaners for Pet Hair

When you’re shopping for a vacuum to tackle your furry friend’s endless shedding, you’ll want to focus on five key factors that make all the difference. Your vacuum should have strong suction power to lift embedded pet hair, a reliable filter system to trap dander, and specialized pet tools like a motorized brush roll for thorough cleaning. You’ll also need to weigh the convenience of cordless models against corded ones’ consistent power, while considering how easily you can move the vacuum around your furniture without straining your back.

Suction Power and Capacity

Choosing a vacuum with robust suction power and adequate capacity stands as the cornerstone of effective pet hair removal. You’ll want to look for models featuring multi-cyclonic systems, which help maintain consistent suction while preventing those pesky clogs that always seem to happen mid-cleaning session.

When you’re dealing with furry friends, motor power is your best ally. The stronger the motor (measured in watts or horsepower), the better it’ll lift stubborn pet hair from your surfaces. Don’t forget about bin capacity – nobody wants to empty their vacuum every five minutes! Look for larger dust bins that’ll let you tackle the whole house without interruption. And here’s a pro tip: opt for a vacuum with variable power settings, so you can adjust the suction as you move from your plush carpets to delicate hardwood floors.

Filter System Quality

Since dealing with pet dander and allergens can greatly impact your home’s air quality, a vacuum’s filtration system plays a crucial role in keeping your space truly clean. You’ll want to look for models with HEPA filters, which can capture an impressive 99.97% of those pesky allergens and debris that your furry friends leave behind.

When shopping for your perfect pet vacuum, pay attention to those featuring triple-level filtration systems – they’re particularly effective at trapping both fine dust and stubborn pet hair. Don’t forget that maintaining your filter system is just as important as choosing the right one. You’ll need to clean or replace filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations to keep your vacuum working at its best. After all, a vacuum that can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns will be your best ally in the battle against pet mess!

Pet-Specific Cleaning Tools

What’s the secret to conquering stubborn pet hair? It’s all about having the right tools for the job. Today’s pet-specific vacuum attachments are game-changers, featuring motorized brushes that’ll dig deep into your carpets and furniture to extract even the most stubborn fur.

You’ll love how modern vacuum accessories tackle every pet-hair challenge. The crevice tools reach those tricky corners where fur loves to hide, while self-cleaning brush rolls mean you won’t spend hours untangling hair from your vacuum. Plus, you’re getting triple-level filtration that catches pesky allergens, so you can breathe easier. And here’s a bonus: many models now come with odor-fighting technology, so your home won’t just look clean – it’ll smell fresh too, even with your furry friends around.

Weight and Maneuverability

Beyond having the right attachments, you’ll want to think about how easily you can move your vacuum around while tackling those pet hair battles. Look for models weighing between 10-22 pounds – anything heavier might make you dread those cleaning sessions, especially when you’re lugging it up and down stairs.

The best pet hair vacuums combine lightweight design with smart features like swivel steering, which helps you glide around furniture legs and into tight corners without breaking a sweat. You’ll also love having adjustable height settings that let you seamlessly shift from hardwood to carpet. And don’t overlook the importance of a compact design with onboard storage – it’s a game-changer when you need to quickly switch attachments while chasing those tumbling fur balls around your home.

Cord Vs Cordless

When choosing between corded and cordless vacuums for pet hair cleanup, you’ll need to contemplate your specific cleaning habits and home layout. If you’ve got a larger home with multiple furry friends, a corded vacuum might be your best bet. These powerhouses deliver consistent suction and won’t leave you hanging mid-cleanup when the battery dies.

While cordless models are fantastic for quick touch-ups and hard-to-reach spots (like those pesky pet hair tumbleweeds under the furniture), their 15-30 minute battery life might not cut it for a thorough whole-house cleaning. Plus, waiting up to 8 hours for a recharge isn’t ideal when your pet’s shedding season is in full swing. Consider how much time you typically spend vacuuming – if it’s more than 30 minutes, a corded model’s reliable performance might be worth sacrificing a bit of mobility.

Surface Type Compatibility

Choosing the perfect vacuum for pet hair means taking a close look at all the surfaces in your home where your furry friend likes to hang out. You’ll want a versatile cleaner that can tackle everything from your plush carpets to your hardwood floors without missing a beat.

Look for models with motorized brushes and specialized pet attachments that’ll dig deep into carpet fibers where pet hair loves to hide. If you’re dealing with multiple surface types, you’ll appreciate vacuums with scatter-free technology that won’t send debris flying when you move from carpet to hard floors. Don’t forget about maneuverability – a vacuum with swivel steering and a lightweight design will help you reach those tricky spots under furniture where pet hair tumbleweeds tend to gather.

Hair Wrap Prevention

Since tangled hair can quickly turn your vacuum into an ineffective mess, investing in a model with robust hair wrap prevention features is absolutely essential. You’ll want to look for vacuums equipped with self-cleaning brush rolls that automatically remove hair while you’re cleaning, saving you from the dreaded task of manual detangling.

Consider models that feature specialized pet hair gripping technology and multiple height adjustments – they’re real game-changers when it comes to preventing those frustrating tangles. Don’t forget to check the dust cup capacity; a larger bin means you won’t have to stop mid-cleaning when hair starts piling up. For an extra touch of freshness, look for models with built-in odor neutralizers. Trust us, your nose (and your sanity) will thank you later!

Dust Bin Design

Three crucial features of a vacuum’s dust bin design can make or break your pet hair cleaning experience. First, you’ll want a bin that’s easy to empty – look for models with flip-to-empty designs that’ll keep your hands clean and prevent those dreaded dust clouds. Second, don’t underestimate the importance of bin capacity; when you’re dealing with pet hair, you’ll appreciate a larger bin that won’t need constant emptying during your cleaning sessions.

The third must-have feature is transparency – you’ll love being able to see exactly when it’s time to empty the bin. Plus, many of today’s best pet hair vacuums come with secure locking mechanisms and specialized filtration systems built right into the bin design, so you won’t have to worry about accidental spills or pesky allergens escaping.

Final Thoughts

You’ll find the perfect vacuum for tackling pet hair among these top picks, each offering unique features to match your needs and budget. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn fur on carpets or scattered kibble on hardwood floors, these trusted models won’t let you down. Don’t forget to take into account your home’s layout, flooring types, and your furry friend’s shedding patterns when making your choice. Happy cleaning – your pets may not notice, but your floors surely will!