If you share your home with furry friends, you know the struggle of keeping carpets free from pet hair, dander, and those occasional muddy paw prints. Finding the best vacuum for carpet and pet hair isn’t just about suction power; it’s about smart design, effective filtration, and features that make your life easier. We understand the unique challenges pet owners face, which is why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you find a vacuum that truly stands up to the task.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Vacuum For Carpet And Pet Hair Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum for Pet Hair and Carpets with Swivel Steering, HEPA Filter
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a fantastic solution for homes with both carpets and pets. Its innovative Lift-Away feature makes cleaning versatile, allowing you to tackle above-floor messes with ease. With powerful suction and a HEPA filter, this vacuum ensures a truly deep clean, trapping allergens and leaving your air fresher.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for easy cleaning of stairs, furniture, and other above-floor areas.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Seamlessly switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor care.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Offers excellent maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this Shark Navigator model because it combines powerful suction with incredible versatility. The Lift-Away feature is a game-changer for pet owners, making it simple to get all that pet hair off upholstery and hard-to-reach spots. Plus, the HEPA filtration system is a blessing for anyone dealing with pet dander allergies.
Best For
This vacuum is best for pet owners with mixed flooring (carpets and hard floors) who need deep cleaning and advanced allergen filtration.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power for stubborn pet hair on carpets.
- Lift-Away feature provides convenient portable cleaning.
- HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Seal are ideal for allergy sufferers.
- Swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver around furniture.
Cons:
- Can be a bit top-heavy when using the lift-away pod.
- Some users find the dust cup capacity could be larger for very hairy homes.
- The hose might feel a little stiff for extensive above-floor cleaning.
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 Deluxe Upright Vacuum for Pet Hair, Carpets, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe offers exceptional deep cleaning for both carpets and bare floors, making it a stellar choice for pet owners. Its Lift-Away feature provides convenient portability for tackling those tricky, above-floor areas. Paired with a HEPA filter, this vacuum is designed to capture dust and allergens, creating a cleaner, healthier home environment.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Effectively cleans deep carpets and hard floors.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for easy cleaning under furniture, on upholstery, and stairs.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter: Traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Enhances maneuverability for effortless cleaning around obstacles.
Why We Recommend It
This vacuum is an excellent all-rounder for homes with pets. The powerful suction combined with the Lift-Away design means no pet hair or dander stands a chance, whether it’s on your carpets or hiding on your sofa. The HEPA filter also makes it a great choice for keeping your home’s air quality high.
Best For
Ideal for pet owners seeking strong multi-surface suction and versatile cleaning options, particularly for homes with a combination of carpets, bare floors, and upholstery.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong suction power for effective pet hair removal on all floor types.
- Versatile Lift-Away mode simplifies cleaning stairs and furniture.
- Advanced HEPA filtration system is beneficial for allergy sufferers.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
Cons:
- Dust cup can fill quickly in homes with multiple shedding pets.
- The hose length might be slightly restrictive for very high or distant cleaning tasks.
- Noise level can be a bit high during operation.
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. Shark Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum with PowerFins HairPro and Odor Neutralizer for Carpets
The Shark Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum is specifically engineered for homes with pets, tackling persistent pet hair on carpets and hard floors with advanced features. Its innovative PowerFins HairPro system and self-cleaning brushroll work together to prevent hair wrap, ensuring consistent cleaning performance. Plus, the integrated Odor Neutralizer Technology keeps your home smelling fresh.
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 for powerful and consistent pet hair pickup.
- ✓ Odor Neutralizer Technology: Guards against pet odors inside the vacuum for a fresher home.
- ✓ Lift-Away Pod: Detachable canister for portable cleaning of stairs, furniture, and tight spaces.
Why We Recommend It
For pet owners, this vacuum addresses the top concerns: hair removal and odor control. The PowerFins and self-cleaning brushroll are incredibly effective at preventing annoying hair tangles, which is a huge time-saver. The added odor neutralizer is a thoughtful touch that genuinely helps maintain a clean-smelling home.
Best For
An excellent choice for pet owners who need maximum hair removal with tangle-free operation and effective odor control on both carpets and hard floors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional at picking up pet hair without tangling, thanks to PowerFins HairPro.
- Odor Neutralizer Technology effectively eliminates pet smells from the vacuum.
- Versatile Lift-Away feature for handheld cleaning.
- Strong suction suitable for various floor types, especially carpets.
Cons:
- Can be heavier than some other upright models.
- The dust bin might require frequent emptying in homes with heavy pet shedding.
- Some users find the maneuverability a bit clunky compared to lighter models.
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”
4. Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum for Powerful Pet Hair Pickup and Carpets
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum is engineered with pet owners in mind, providing powerful suction specifically for tackling embedded pet hair on carpets and hard floors. Its swivel steering allows for effortless navigation around furniture, making your cleaning routine much smoother. Every purchase also supports BISSELL Pet Foundation, which is a lovely bonus for animal lovers!
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Maximizes maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.
- ✓ Triple Action Brush Roll: Loosens, lifts, and removes embedded pet hair from carpets.
- ✓ Multi-Cyclonic Suction System: Provides powerful, long-lasting suction.
- ✓ Easy Empty Dirt Tank: Simple and mess-free disposal of collected debris.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: A portion of every purchase helps homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
This Bissell CleanView model truly excels at picking up pet hair from carpets, thanks to its specialized brush roll. The swivel steering is a real blessing, making it easy to glide around your home without constant heavy lifting. Knowing that your purchase helps pets in need is also a wonderful reason to choose this vacuum.
Best For
An ideal option for pet owners primarily concerned with thorough pet hair removal from carpets and who appreciate easy maneuverability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent at picking up pet hair from various carpet depths.
- Swivel steering makes it very agile and easy to navigate.
- Easy-to-empty dirt tank simplifies maintenance.
- Supports a good cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation).
Cons:
- Can be a bit loud during operation.
- Hose accessories might feel less robust than the main unit.
- Not as effective on large debris compared to fine dust and hair.
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”
5. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off Vacuum with HEPA and Tangle-Free Brush Roll for Carpets
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off Vacuum is a robust solution for homes battling pet hair and allergens. Its powerful suction, combined with a Tangle-Free Brush Roll, ensures that pet hair is captured without frustrating wraps. The Lift-Off detachable pod adds versatility, while the HEPA Sealed Allergen System keeps your home’s air cleaner by trapping dust and allergens.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Easily handles dirt, fur, and dust on carpets and hard floors.
- ✓ Lift-Off Detachable Pod: Transforms into a portable canister for above-floor and hard-to-reach cleaning.
- ✓ HEPA Sealed Allergen System: Captures dust and allergens within the vacuum, preventing them from re-entering the air.
- ✓ Tangle-Free Brush Roll: Designed to prevent hair from wrapping around the brush, ensuring consistent performance.
- ✓ LED Headlights: Illuminates hidden pet hair and debris.
Why We Recommend It
This vacuum is a powerhouse for pet owners, especially those with allergy concerns. The tangle-free brush roll is a fantastic feature, saving you from tedious maintenance. Plus, the lift-off pod and HEPA sealing system work together to deliver a truly deep and allergy-friendly clean across your entire home.
Best For
An excellent choice for pet owners with allergies who need powerful suction, tangle-free operation, and versatile cleaning across multiple surfaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Remarkable suction power for pet hair and debris on carpets.
- Tangle-Free Brush Roll significantly reduces hair wrap.
- HEPA Sealed Allergen System is highly effective for allergy sufferers.
- Versatile Lift-Off canister allows for easy above-floor cleaning.
Cons:
- Can be heavier than some other upright vacuums.
- The cord length might feel short for larger rooms, requiring re-plugging.
- Attachments are effective but some users might want more variety.
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 “
6. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Bagless Vacuum for Pet Hair, Carpets, and Hard Floors
The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Bagless Vacuum provides robust cleaning power without the heavy lifting. Weighing just 10 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to maneuver and carry, yet it doesn’t compromise on suction. Designed to handle pet hair across multiple surfaces, from deep carpets to hard floors, and featuring an extra-large dust cup, this vacuum is built for convenience and efficiency.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight Design: Weighs only 10 pounds, making it easy to carry and maneuver.
- ✓ Strong Suction Across Surfaces: 960-watt motor provides consistent power for carpets, hardwoods, and tiles.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup (2.6 liters): Reduces the frequency of emptying.
- ✓ Five Height Adjustment Settings: Optimized cleaning for different carpet pile heights.
- ✓ Wide Cleaning Path: Covers more area with each pass, speeding up cleaning time.
Why We Recommend It
For those who hate lugging a heavy vacuum around, the Eureka PowerSpeed is a breath of fresh air. Its lightweight design combined with powerful suction makes daily cleaning much less of a chore, especially when dealing with persistent pet hair. The large dust cup is a practical feature, meaning fewer interruptions during your cleaning sessions.
Best For
This vacuum is best for pet owners seeking a lightweight yet powerful vacuum for everyday quick clean-ups on both carpets and hard floors, especially if you have multi-level homes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight, making it easy to carry and push.
- Powerful suction effectively picks up pet hair from carpets and hard floors.
- Large dust cup minimizes interruptions for emptying.
- Affordable price point for its performance.
Cons:
- Construction might feel less premium compared to higher-end models.
- Noise level can be quite high.
- Brush roll might tangle with very long human hair, though less so with pet hair.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My previous vacuum was by a very popular brand, and it was expensive. It had every feature that you could imagine and worked as an upright, canister, and handheld unit. I had it for years and hated it. Why? Because it was very heavy, unwieldy, and bulky. None of the accessories were mounted on the”
Customer Review: “The Eureka Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice for anyone looking for strong suction, versatility, and ease of use at an affordable price. It performs well on multiple floor types, including carpets, hardwood, and tile. The vacuum is lightweight enough to maneuver comfortably, yet”
7. Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Bagless Vacuum for Powerful Pet Hair Pickup, Carpets
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Bagless Vacuum is designed to make cleaning up after your pets as effortless as possible. It combines powerful suction with a Triple Action Brush Roll and Scatter-Free Technology to ensure no pet hair is left behind on your carpets. The standout feature, an automatic cord rewind, makes storing this vacuum a breeze, eliminating frustrating tangles.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Triple Action Brush Roll + Scatter-Free Technology: Maximizes pet hair pickup, even embedded hair, without scattering debris.
- ✓ Automatic Cord Rewind: Retracts the 27-foot power cord with the touch of a button for easy storage.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent maneuverability to clean around furniture and obstacles.
- ✓ Multi-Cyclonic Suction System: Offers powerful, consistent suction.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: A portion of every purchase helps save homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
If you’re tired of wrestling with tangled cords, the automatic rewind on this Bissell is a game-changer! Beyond that convenience, its powerful brush roll system is incredibly effective at lifting stubborn pet hair from carpets, giving you a truly clean look. It’s a thoughtful design for busy pet owners.
Best For
Perfect for pet owners who prioritize ease of use, strong carpet cleaning performance, and hate manually winding cords.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Automatic cord rewind is incredibly convenient for quick storage.
- Triple Action Brush Roll effectively removes embedded pet hair from carpets.
- Swivel steering enhances maneuverability around furniture.
- Supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, helping homeless animals.
Cons:
- Can be somewhat noisy during operation.
- The weight might be a concern for some users when carrying upstairs.
- Attachments are effective but might not be as specialized as other pet-specific vacuums.
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”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Vacuum For Carpet And Pet Hair
Choosing the best vacuum for carpet and pet hair can feel overwhelming with so many options available. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the choices. Think of your new vacuum as an investment in a cleaner, happier home. Understanding what truly matters will ensure you pick a machine that makes a real difference.
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the ideal pet vacuum for your carpets, several key features make all the difference. First, suction power is paramount; you need a vacuum that can truly lift embedded pet hair and dander from deep within carpet fibers. Look for models with strong motors and efficient airflow. Next, the brush roll design is critical. Specialized brush rolls, often labeled as “tangle-free” or with “pet hair” specific technology, are designed to aggressively pick up hair without getting clogged. Finally, a robust filtration system, especially a HEPA filter combined with a sealed system, is a must-have for trapping allergens and keeping the air in your home fresh. Features like swivel steering and a lightweight design also greatly improve ease of use and maneuverability around furniture and obstacles, which is vital for daily cleaning in busy pet households.
Budget Planning
A common concern is how much to spend on a vacuum cleaner for pet hair on carpets. The good news is that you don’t always need to break the bank to find an effective solution. While premium models offer advanced features and enhanced durability, many mid-range vacuums provide excellent performance for pet owners. Consider your specific needs: Do you have a small apartment or a large house? One shedding pet or several? Your answers will guide your budget. Generally, expect to invest anywhere from $150 to $400 for a quality pet vacuum that offers a good balance of power, features, and durability. Remember, a slightly higher upfront cost can often save you money and frustration in the long run by providing a more efficient and reliable cleaning experience.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best vacuum for carpet and pet hair is one that fits your home, your lifestyle, and your specific pet-related challenges. Pay close attention to suction strength, brush roll design, and filtration. Don’t forget about features that enhance usability, like maneuverability and ease of emptying. With these considerations in mind, you’ll be well-equipped to choose a vacuum that transforms your carpets from pet hair magnets into clean, fresh surfaces, allowing you and your furry companions to enjoy your home to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes a vacuum good for pet hair on carpets?
A: The best vacuums for pet hair on carpets typically feature strong, consistent suction, a powerful brush roll (often with specialized bristles or anti-tangle technology), and excellent filtration, like a HEPA filter, to trap dander and allergens. They often include specialized pet tools for upholstery and tight spaces as well.
Q: Should I get a bagless or bagged vacuum for pet hair?
A: Both can be effective. Bagless vacuums are convenient as they save money on bags, but emptying the bin can sometimes release dust and allergens back into the air. Bagged vacuums contain dust and allergens better, making them a good choice for allergy sufferers, but require ongoing bag purchases.
Q: How often should I vacuum my carpets if I have pets?
A: For homes with pets, especially those with high-shedding breeds, it’s recommended to vacuum carpets daily or at least every other day. This routine helps to keep pet hair, dander, and dirt from building up and becoming embedded deep within the carpet fibers.
Q: Are cordless vacuums effective for pet hair on carpets?
A: Many modern cordless vacuums offer impressive suction and specialized brush rolls that can be quite effective for pet hair on carpets, especially for quick clean-ups or smaller areas. However, for deep cleaning large, heavily soiled carpets, a corded upright or canister vacuum might still offer more consistent and powerful performance over a longer run time.
Q: What is a HEPA filter and why is it important for pet owners?
A: HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are designed to capture 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns, including pet dander, pollen, and dust mites. For pet owners, especially those with allergies or asthma, a HEPA filter is crucial for removing these tiny irritants from the air and preventing them from recirculating in your home.
There you have it – our top picks and expert advice on finding the best vacuum for carpet and pet hair. We know how much joy pets bring to our lives, and keeping your home clean shouldn’t add to your stress. With the right vacuum, you can easily tackle pet messes and enjoy a fresher, cleaner living space. Ready to make your carpets look new again? Click on the links above to explore these highly recommended models and find the perfect match for your home today!
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.
