Are you tired of watching your pet suffer from flea attacks? You may worry that fleas will spread throughout your home and bother you and your family. What’s the best way to ensure your home is protected from them?
Flea infestations range from mildly frustrating to nightmarish. How you manage it can make a difference in the severity of your struggle. Vacuuming is an effective way to deal with fleas without introducing chemicals or expensive treatments.
But not every vacuum is equipped to handle the drama of fleas. That’s where we come in. We’ve rounded up the three best vacuums for fleas, so that they’re no longer an issue in your lovely abode.
- Extra-effective filtration
- Triple XL dust cup
- Extension hose
- Handheld convertible
- Extended run time
- No-touch dust bin
- Ergonomic design
- Washable HEPA filter
- Motorized brush
The Best Vacuums For Fleas of 2024
Here are three excellent vacuum cleaners for getting rid of fleas rated by their filtration, suction, and capactiy.
Shark Navigator Zero-M Upright
Best Upright Vacuum for Fleas
This model comes with all the features needed for a happy, flea-free home. It’s an upright vacuum, so powerful suction is a given, but it’s also designed for ease of use and greater maneuverability. The swivel steering and lightweight design speak for themselves.
A sophisticated feature is the Zero-M self-cleaning brush roll. Tangles aren’t going to be a problem if you pick this model, which is fantastic if your pets shed a lot. It also includes an extension hose that reaches an extra 12 feet.
Not only does it include a HEPA filter, but it incorporates Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology for more effective cleaning. The triple XL dust cup is a bonus.
What We Like
Extra-Effective HEPA Filtration
The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology works well with the HEPA filter. It’s better for your vacuum and will improve your suction and air quality. There aren’t many manufacturers that double-down on the filtration, so we appreciate that Shark has with this model.
Triple XL Dust Cup
If you’re battling fleas, you’ll want all the dust capacity you can get. This product has more than enough room to contain all of the dust, debris, fleas and larvae you will collect. If you have an extreme infestation, you’ll be surprised at how many fleas you pick up.
12-Foot Extension Hose
Most uprights are limited to the range of their brush roll. They’re rigid and are typically only used on flat surfaces. We like that this model comes with an extension hose that gives you an extra 12 feet of reach.
You can use it for vertical cleaning too, making this upright vacuum one of the most versatile on the market.
What We Don't Like
Odd Button Placement
Some customers expected the controls of this vacuum to be somewhat simpler, compared to its predecessors. However, the button to switch from hard floors to carpets is placed on the canister and not the handle. If you haven’t used Shark vacuums before, this may take some getting used to.
Awkward Maneuvering
Though this upright comes with swivel steering, some users note that it doesn’t work as smoothly as they hoped it would. A few customers note that it’s cumbersome to move around, but we feel it’s standard for an upright.
Product Specs
| Filtration | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, HEPA filter |
| Brush | Zero-M self-cleaning brush roll |
| Features | Swivel steering |
| Accessories | Extension hose, duster crevice tool, upholstery brush, dusting brush |
| Capacity | 26-liter reusable dust cup |
Our Ratings
Dyson V8 Animal Cordless
Best Stick Vacuum for Fleas
Dyson is a firm favorite, and its Animal series has met much success. The V8 is a powerful and versatile vacuum for use all over your home. On its Powerful setting, you can get up to 40 minutes of run time.
This model uses whole machine filtration and comes with a lifetime, reusable and washable filter. It converts into a handheld for effective cleaning in out-of-reach or tight spots. There’s also a no-touch dust bin with a release button, saving you hassle when it comes to emptying.
A motorized brush works against stubborn dirt, debris and pet hair. If you need a boost, combine this with the vacuum’s MAX mode for more power.
What We Like
Handheld Convertible for Deep Cleaning
This stick vacuum is multi-purpose. You can use it on types of flooring, and it converts into a handheld vacuum for extra convenience and versatility. This is handy if you need to clean tight corners or small areas, like your upholstery or a pet’s bed.
Extended Run Time
If you operate this machine in its standard mode, it could last you up to 40 minutes. This is impressive for a stick vacuum and is sufficient time to fight those fleas.
No-Touch Dust Bin
We think the release button for the dust bin is a great addition. You don’t have to get your hands dirty, and it saves time in maintenance. So, once you’ve vacuumed up the fleas, disposing of them will be a breeze.
What We Don't Like
Weak Batteries
A few customers note that while the suction and efficiency of this model are great, its battery deteriorates faster than they expected. It’s worth mentioning, though, that this may not be Dyson’s fault. Stick vacuums, in general, are criticized for fading over time.
MAX Mode Drains Quickly
You should know that MAX mode will drain all of the vacuum’s juice. While it lasts a long time in Power mode, MAX is different. It will only run for 10 or so minutes before you’ll have to recharge. So, use it wisely.
Product Specs
| Filtration | Whole machine filtration, lifetime washable filter |
| Brush | Direct drive cleaner head |
| Features | Handheld convertible |
| Accessories | Mini motorized brush, mini soft dusting brush, crevice tool, combination tool, docking station |
| Capacity | 0.5-liter reusable dust bin |
Our Ratings
Ovente Bagless Canister
Best Canister Vacuum for Fleas
Fighting fleas can be hard work, so we recommend this compact canister to lessen the load. It’s an ergonomic vacuum that won’t strain your back or shoulders. You can operate it, or control the brush height, with a convenient foot switch.
It’s easy to find your way around this machine. Suction control is made possible by a simple slider, and a pedal retracts its cord.
This product includes a great selection of accessories too. You’ll get a motorized brush, multi-angle tool and brush-crevice tool. It also includes a washable HEPA filter for purer air.
What We Like
Ergonomic Design Reduces Strain
Each component of this vacuum makes operating it so easy. This is an excellent choice of vacuum if you struggle with back pain or strain. Though it’s a canister, you won’t have to bend too much to use this one, and its controls are simple and seamless.
Washable HEPA Filter
For the greatest effect, you should maintain or replace your filters every so often. This washable HEPA filter will save you money, effort and time. The result of this feature is fresher air inside your home with no extra fuss.
Motorized Brush Removes Stubborn Dirt
This canister works well on stubborn dirt, hair and of course, fleas too. The motorized brush will remove embedded dirt with ease. It’s a great addition to an already powerful vacuum.
What We Don't Like
Awkward Maneuverability
A flaw of the canister vacuums is that they trail behind you and might get in their own way. This seems prominent with this model, as customers say it’s as though it has a mind of its own. Keep an eye on it, though, and you won’t run into this problem.
Better for Hard Floors
This is a multi-floor vacuum. However, a few customers think it’s more effective on hard floors than it is on carpets and rugs. Experiment with its suction control to see what works for you.
Product Specs
| Filtration | Washable HEPA filter |
| Brush | Motorized |
| Features | Foot pedals for power, suction control, cord retraction, ergonomic design |
| Accessories | Multi-angle tool, brush-crevice tool |
| Capacity | Approx. 1 liter |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Filtration | Brush | Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Navigator Zero-M Upright | Upright Vacuum | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, HEPA filter | Zero-M self-cleaning brush roll | 26-liter reusable dust cup |
| Dyson V8 Animal Cordless | Stick Vacuum | Whole machine filtration, lifetime washable filter | Direct drive cleaner head | 0.5-liter reusable dust bin |
| Ovente Bagless Canister | Canister Vacuum | Washable HEPA filter | Motorized | Approx. 1 liter |
How to Choose the Best Vacuum for Fleas
Any domestic vacuum cleaner will do, but there are some specs to look out for if you want to get the best out of your machine.
Pet-friendly
Although any standard vacuum will combat fleas, not every model is suitable for pet hair. It’s safe to assume that you won’t have one without the other. So, make sure that the vacuum you choose is pet-approved.
Carpet Capacity
Fleas are likely to breed in carpets, or even your upholstery or mattress. Go for a carpet-specific vacuum or a multi-floor machine. If possible, a vacuum with upholstery and crevice attachments will work well.
Reusable Dust Container
Once you’ve vacuumed up the fleas and their larvae, you’ll want to dispose of them. A reusable bin isn’t a necessity, but it will make your vacuum maintenance so much easier. You’ll save money on replacements too.
HEPA Filter
Many pet vacuums will include a HEPA filter but double-check, just in case. They’re an excellent addition to any vacuum and will give you a deep cleaning experience. The air in your home will be healthier for you and your pets too.
Empty Dust Bags Safely
FAQs
How Do I Get Rid of Fleas In My House Fast?
The best way to get rid of fleas in your house fast is to use a fast-acting flea powder like this PetArmor Flea Powder. It kills fleas and ticks, starts working within one hour, and is easy to use. Simply sprinkle it on, wait 24 hours, and vacuum to remove the powder.
How Often Should I Vacuum If I Have Fleas?
The frequency you should vacuum if you have fleas is every other day. You should try and remove the flea eggs before they hatch, which takes two to three days.
How Long Can Fleas Live In a Vacuum?
Fleas cannot live inside a vacuum cleaner because they need to feed, and there is no nutrition in your dust canister or vacuum bag. Once inside, they die almost instantly.
Can Fleas Live In a Bagless Vacuum?
Fleas cannot live inside a bagless vacuum cleaner. They need food to survive, and there is zero sustenance inside a vacuum canister to keep them alive.
How Do You Get Fleas Out of Your Couch?
You must use a flea comb to get fleas out of your couch. Ensure that you focus on seams, crevices, and hard-to-reach corners because fleas like to hide in less obvious spots.
