Living with furry friends brings immense joy, but let’s be honest – pet hair can be a real challenge! Whether it’s shedding season or your beloved pet simply leaves a trail of fur wherever they go, finding the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair is essential for a clean and comfortable home. Nobody wants to constantly deal with allergens or tangled hair in their brush rolls. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide, testing and reviewing the top contenders to help you choose a powerful pet vacuum that truly makes a difference. Say goodbye to pesky pet hair and hello to a sparkling clean living space!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Vacuum Cleaner For Pet Hair Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum: Swivel Steering, HEPA Filter, for Pet Hair on Carpets & Hard Floors.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a fantastic option for households with pets, offering robust suction and versatile cleaning. Its innovative lift-away feature transforms it from an upright to a portable canister, making it incredibly easy to tackle stairs, furniture, and tight spaces where pet hair often accumulates. With its swivel steering, maneuvering around obstacles is a breeze, ensuring no patch of fur is left behind.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Easily detach the canister for portable cleaning on stairs and upholstery.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, crucial for pet owners with sensitivities.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control and easy navigation around furniture.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Seamlessly switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor operation.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this Shark Navigator for its versatility and powerful performance against pet hair. The ability to lift away the canister is a game-changer for above-floor cleaning, while the HEPA filter system ensures that allergens from pet dander are effectively captured, not recirculated. It’s truly a comprehensive solution for maintaining a clean, pet-friendly home.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for pet owners who need a versatile cleaner capable of handling both extensive floor cleaning and detailed spot cleaning on various surfaces, including carpets, hard floors, and upholstery.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power for embedded pet hair.
- Lift-Away feature makes cleaning stairs and furniture effortless.
- HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Seal are great for allergy sufferers.
- Swivel steering enhances maneuverability around obstacles.
Cons:
- Can be a bit top-heavy when using the lift-away pod.
- Power cord length might require frequent outlet changes in large homes.
- The dust cup, while large, may still need frequent emptying in extremely pet-hairy homes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
2. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum: HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Large Dust Cup for Pet Hair.
Another excellent entry from Shark, this Navigator Lift-Away model is specifically designed with pet owners in mind. Its powerful suction handles deep-seated fur on carpets and effortlessly cleans bare floors. The Lift-Away functionality, combined with its large dust cup, means you can tackle extensive cleaning tasks without constant interruptions, making it a reliable choice for larger homes with multiple pets.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Delivers strong suction across multiple surfaces, from deep carpets to hard floors.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: The detachable pod allows for easy cleaning under furniture and above-floor areas.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with HEPA Filter: Captures 99.9% of dust and allergens, keeping your air cleaner.
- ✓ Large Dust Cup: Reduces the frequency of emptying, perfect for homes with significant pet hair.
Why We Recommend It
This vacuum stands out due to its combination of sheer suction power and practical features. The large dust cup is a blessing for pet owners, as it significantly extends cleaning sessions before needing to empty. Its specialized design for pet hair, along with the HEPA filtration, ensures a thorough clean and a healthier home environment.
Best For
This is a great fit for homes with heavy pet shedding and various floor types, particularly those needing a vacuum that can handle a lot of pet hair without constantly stopping to empty the bin.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional powerful suction for all types of pet hair.
- Generous dust cup capacity is convenient for pet-heavy homes.
- Effective in trapping allergens, improving air quality.
- Versatile with its Lift-Away feature for diverse cleaning needs.
Cons:
- Can be somewhat bulky for storage in smaller spaces.
- Attachments might require extra storage space.
- Corded design limits reach compared to cordless models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
3. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off Vacuum with Powerful Suction, HEPA, Tangle-Free Brush Roll.
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off Vacuum is a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on pet hair removal. Designed specifically for pet owners, it combines powerful suction with a unique lift-off detachable pod for versatile cleaning. The tangle-free brush roll is a godsend, preventing frustrating hair wraps, while the HEPA sealed allergen system keeps your home cleaner and healthier.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Effectively picks up dirt, fur, and dust from various surfaces.
- ✓ Lift-Off Detachable Pod: Transforms into a portable canister for easy above-floor and detailed cleaning.
- ✓ HEPA Sealed Allergen System: Captures allergens, preventing them from recirculating into the air.
- ✓ Tangle-Free Brush Roll: Minimizes hair wrap, ensuring consistent performance and less maintenance.
Why We Recommend It
This Bissell vacuum is highly recommended for its exceptional value. It delivers powerful pet hair removal and allergen filtration typically found in more expensive models. The tangle-free brush roll is a stand-out feature that saves time and hassle for any pet owner, making daily cleanups much more efficient and enjoyable.
Best For
Ideal for pet owners on a budget who need a powerful, versatile vacuum with excellent allergen filtration and a specialized design to combat pet hair on both floors and upholstery.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money with robust features.
- Tangle-free brush roll significantly reduces maintenance.
- HEPA filtration system is effective against pet allergens.
- Lift-off pod offers great flexibility for various cleaning tasks.
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavy for some users when used as an upright.
- Maneuverability under low furniture might be limited.
- Some users might find the noise level a bit high.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Wow! Just after our first use I can say this is the best vacuum we have owned while having a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Golden Retriever. It picked up an unbelievable amount of hair, left our floors looking brand new, and was so easy to use. The suction is powerful so picks up quickly. The design is”
Customer Review: “I’ve had this vacuum for a several weeks now and I love it! It has great suction power and moves around easily. I have 4 dogs, so I vacuum almost every day to keep up with the hair. I use this on my hard floors as well as various rugs. I use the hose with the upholstery attachment on my couches and “
4. Shark Rotator Pet Vacuum: PowerFins HairPro, Odor Neutralizer Technology for Pet Hair.
The Shark Rotator Pet Vacuum with PowerFins HairPro is engineered specifically for homes with pets, tackling persistent hair with ease. Its innovative PowerFins brushroll actively grips and captures embedded pet hair on both carpets and hard floors, while the self-cleaning feature ensures you spend less time untangling and more time cleaning. Plus, the integrated Odor Neutralizer Technology helps keep your home smelling fresh, a huge bonus for pet owners.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ PowerFins HairPro: Actively grips and captures long, short, and pet hair on all surfaces.
- ✓ Self-Cleaning Brushroll: Prevents hair wrap, maintaining consistent suction and performance.
- ✓ Odor Neutralizer Technology: Guards against unpleasant pet odors inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Deep cleans carpets and hard floors effectively.
Why We Recommend It
This Shark Rotator is a powerhouse for pet hair, especially with its PowerFins HairPro and self-cleaning brushroll that truly prevent hair tangles. The Odor Neutralizer Technology is a thoughtful addition that makes a noticeable difference in keeping your home smelling fresh, making it one of the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair choices.
Best For
Perfect for pet owners who deal with a lot of pet hair and want to prevent hair wrap, while also combating pet odors in their home.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for all types of pet hair with PowerFins technology.
- Self-cleaning brushroll is a major time-saver.
- Odor Neutralizer Technology effectively eliminates pet smells.
- Strong suction on both carpets and hard floors.
Cons:
- Can be heavier than some other upright models.
- Some users might find it less agile in very tight spaces.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I just purchased this vacuum and am really impressed with it after the first use. It was really easy to put together. The instructions included are detailed with pictures. It’s easy to transition to handheld. There’s no extra hose you have to lug around or store. It’s lightweight so moving it up and”
Customer Review: “I am where vacuums go to die. With 4 dogs and 5 cats, living on a mountain farm, I kill vacuums on a regular basis. I’ve managed to take out everything from an old Kirby to a new Dyson & everything in between. Even the ones designed for pet hair didn’t last long. Then I got a shark navigator. It wa”
5. Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum for Powerful Pet Hair Pickup with Specialized Tools.
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum is designed to make pet hair cleanup straightforward and effective. With its powerful suction and specialized tools, it easily tackles embedded pet hair on carpets and hard floors. The swivel steering feature significantly improves maneuverability, allowing you to clean around furniture and obstacles with minimal effort, making it a solid contender for the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Offers maximum maneuverability to navigate around furniture and tight spots.
- ✓ Triple Action Brush Roll: Designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair from carpets.
- ✓ Specialized Pet Tools: Includes tools like a Pet TurboEraser Tool for upholstery and stairs.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Ensures thorough cleaning for various surfaces.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: A portion of every purchase helps save homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Bissell CleanView Swivel for its dedicated pet features and ease of use. The swivel steering is particularly helpful for navigating busy homes, and the triple-action brush roll proves highly effective at pulling out stubborn pet hair. Plus, supporting a great cause like the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds an extra layer of appeal.
Best For
This vacuum is perfect for pet owners looking for a powerful and maneuverable upright vacuum with specialized tools for targeted pet hair removal, especially in homes with mixed flooring and numerous obstacles.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent swivel steering for enhanced maneuverability.
- Triple Action Brush Roll effectively tackles embedded pet hair.
- Comes with specialized pet tools for versatile cleaning.
- Good suction power on both hard floors and carpets.
Cons:
- Can be challenging to use under very low-clearance furniture.
- May feel a bit heavy during extended cleaning sessions.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This vacuum cleaner is really good — the suction power is excellent. It picks up hair, pet fur, dust, and even crumbs very well. The only downside is that it’s a bit inconvenient to use under the bed or couch, and it’s slightly heavy. Overall, though, it works great!😍”
Customer Review: “I believe this is the best vacuum I’ve ever owned. We recently moved and purchased a home, our previous home was all hardwood floors and since I have back issues I had a great lightweight floor vac, our new home has wall to wall carpeting upstairs and I needed to purchase a better vacuum, I had an o”
6. Shark Navigator Lift Away Vacuum: HEPA Filter, Anti-Allergen, Swivel Steering for Pet Hair and Floors.
The Shark Navigator Lift Away Vacuum is a reliable choice for pet owners seeking powerful and versatile cleaning. Featuring the convenient lift-away functionality, it easily transitions from a traditional upright to a portable canister for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Its anti-allergen complete seal technology with a HEPA filter ensures that dust and pet dander are trapped, making your home healthier for everyone, especially those with allergies.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for effortless above-floor cleaning, like stairs and upholstery.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of allergens and dust inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Offers superior control and easy navigation around furniture and obstacles.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Effectively picks up pet hair and debris from both carpets and hard floors.
Why We Recommend It
This Shark Navigator model is a consistently strong performer, especially for pet hair and allergen control. The combination of its lift-away feature, potent suction, and advanced filtration system makes it incredibly effective for maintaining a pristine environment. It’s a workhorse that many pet owners will appreciate for its deep cleaning capabilities.
Best For
This vacuum is an excellent option for households with pets and allergy sufferers, needing a flexible vacuum that can clean all floor types as well as elevated surfaces with strong allergen retention.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly effective at trapping allergens with HEPA filtration.
- Versatile Lift-Away mode for comprehensive cleaning.
- Strong suction power tackles stubborn pet hair.
- Easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
Cons:
- Can feel a bit bulky when operating as an upright.
- Corded design may limit range in larger homes without unplugging.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
7. Shark Rotator Lift-Away Vacuum with No Hair Wrap, HEPA Filter, LED Headlights for Pet Hair.
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away Vacuum with No Hair Wrap is a premium choice engineered to conquer pet hair and dander. Its DuoClean PowerFins technology ensures continuous contact on both carpets and hard floors for superior cleaning. The self-cleaning brushroll is a standout feature, virtually eliminating hair wrap, which is a common headache for pet owners. Combined with a HEPA filter and LED headlights, this vacuum is truly designed for deep and detailed pet hair removal.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ DuoClean PowerFins Technology: Two brushrolls for nonstop contact on carpets and hard floors, picking up more dirt and hair.
- ✓ Self-Cleaning Brushroll: Offers powerful pet hair pickup with zero hair wrap, a major convenience.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for easy cleaning of stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach areas.
- ✓ HEPA Filter + Anti-Allergen Complete Seal: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens for a cleaner home environment.
- ✓ LED Headlights: Illuminate hidden debris and pet hair under furniture and in dark corners.
Why We Recommend It
This Shark Rotator model is a fantastic investment for serious pet owners. The DuoClean PowerFins and self-cleaning brushroll work in tandem to provide unmatched pet hair pickup without the hassle of constantly clearing tangled hair. The addition of a HEPA filter and LED headlights makes this vacuum incredibly thorough and efficient, justifying its place as a top pet vacuum cleaner.
Best For
Ideal for homes with multiple pets and extensive shedding, particularly those who appreciate advanced cleaning technologies like anti-hair wrap and enhanced visibility, alongside strong allergen control.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior pet hair pickup with DuoClean PowerFins and self-cleaning brushroll.
- No hair wrap means less maintenance and consistent performance.
- HEPA filtration and Anti-Allergen Seal are excellent for allergy sufferers.
- LED headlights reveal hidden dirt and pet hair.
Cons:
- Can be heavier and bulkier than stick vacuums.
- The price point is higher compared to basic models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We have our house professionally cleaned, so I wasn’t expecting that when I tried this on our carpets that it would pull anything up. Holy smokes – there was a lot of lint and dust that this vacuum picks up that gets left behind with other vacuums. Very easy to push and feels sturdy. We’ve had other”
Customer Review: “Powerful yet light. It’s all about hair and It’s all about the double brush. I “sold” the Kirby vacs as a teenager waiting to get in the military. We were trained on various vacuums and I was in a lot of homes showing people how junk their other vacuums were. Never sold one because even though they”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Vacuum Cleaner for Pet Hair
Choosing the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. But don’t worry, I’m here to walk you through what truly matters. From battling daily shedding to tackling embedded fur, the right pet vacuum can make all the difference in keeping your home pristine. Let’s look at the key considerations that guided our expert selections.
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for a vacuum cleaner for pet hair, a few features really stand out:
- Suction Power: This is non-negotiable. Pet hair, especially from breeds with dense undercoats, can cling stubbornly to carpets and upholstery. You need a vacuum with strong, consistent suction to lift it effectively. Look for models explicitly advertised for “powerful suction” or “pet hair pickup.”
- Brushroll Design: This is where many vacuums fail. Traditional brushrolls can quickly get tangled with long pet hair, reducing their effectiveness and requiring frequent, messy maintenance. The best vacuum cleaner for pet hair often features tangle-free brushrolls, self-cleaning brushrolls, or specialized rubberized bristles (like Shark’s PowerFins) that prevent hair wrap.
- Filtration System (HEPA & Sealed System): Pet dander is a major allergen. A sealed system combined with a HEPA filter ensures that microscopic allergens and dust are trapped inside the vacuum and not released back into your home’s air. This is vital for allergy sufferers and overall air quality.
- Versatility for Different Surfaces: Do you have carpets, hardwood, tiles, or a mix? Your vacuum should handle all your floor types seamlessly. Many pet vacuums offer brushroll shutoff for gentle bare floor cleaning and aggressive carpet modes.
- Attachments and Accessories: Specialized tools are a game-changer for pet owners. Look for motorized pet tools for upholstery, crevice tools for tight spots where fur accumulates, and extension wands for ceiling corners. “Lift-Away” designs are also incredibly handy for portable, above-floor cleaning.
- Dust Cup Capacity and Ease of Emptying: Pets mean more debris. A larger dust cup means less frequent emptying. Also, consider how easy and mess-free it is to empty the canister—no one wants a cloud of pet hair exploding back into the room!
Budget Planning
Finding the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair doesn’t always mean breaking the bank. There’s a wide range of options to fit different budgets, from premium models with all the bells and whistles to more affordable workhorses that still get the job done efficiently. Think about how often you’ll be vacuuming and the amount of pet hair you deal with. Investing a little more upfront in a durable model with advanced features like tangle-free brushrolls or HEPA filtration can save you time and frustration (and potentially even money on replacement bags or filters) in the long run. Our “Best Budget” pick offers fantastic performance without the hefty price tag, proving that effective pet hair removal can be accessible.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair is one that fits your lifestyle, your home’s unique needs, and your budget. Consider the type of pets you have, your flooring, and any allergy concerns. Investing in a vacuum specifically designed to tackle pet hair will not only keep your home cleaner but also contribute to a healthier and more comfortable living environment for both you and your beloved furry companions. A clean home means more quality snuggle time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a vacuum cleaner “good for pet hair”?
A: A vacuum good for pet hair typically features strong suction, a specialized brushroll (often tangle-free or with rubberized bristles) designed to pick up hair without clogging, a robust filtration system (like HEPA) to trap dander, and versatile attachments for cleaning upholstery and stairs.
Q: Do I need a HEPA filter if I have pets?
A: Yes, especially if anyone in your household has allergies. Pet dander is a common allergen, and a HEPA filter combined with a sealed system ensures that these microscopic particles are captured and not recirculated into the air, significantly improving indoor air quality.
Q: Are cordless vacuums good for pet hair?
A: Many modern cordless vacuums are excellent for pet hair, offering convenience and powerful suction. However, battery life and dust cup capacity might be more limited compared to corded uprights, making them more suitable for quick cleanups or smaller homes. Always check the specific model’s features for pet hair performance.
Q: How often should I vacuum if I have pets?
A: For optimal cleanliness and allergen reduction, it’s recommended to vacuum daily or every other day, especially in high-traffic areas or during shedding seasons. Areas where pets frequently sleep should also be cleaned regularly with appropriate attachments.
Q: What is a “tangle-free brushroll” and why is it important for pet owners?
A: A tangle-free brushroll is designed with innovative bristles or fins that actively prevent pet hair from wrapping around the brush, a common problem with traditional vacuums. This feature is crucial for pet owners as it maintains consistent cleaning performance and significantly reduces the time and effort spent on maintenance.
Choosing the right vacuum cleaner for pet hair can truly transform your home environment, making it cleaner, fresher, and more comfortable for everyone. We’ve explored some of the best pet hair vacuum cleaners on the market, each bringing unique strengths to the battle against fur and dander. Whether you prioritize powerful suction, advanced allergen filtration, versatile lift-away designs, or tangle-free brushrolls, there’s a perfect match for your needs.
Don’t let pet hair take over your living space any longer. By investing in one of these highly-rated models, you’ll not only enjoy a cleaner home but also more quality time with your beloved pets, without the constant worry of shedding. Ready to make a difference? Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” button for your favorite pick and say goodbye to pet hair for good!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
