If your furry friend is shedding everywhere, a regular vacuum might not be cutting it.
With an abundance of choices available, how do you know which are the best vacuums for pet hair? We’ve outlined the key elements that make a vacuum good for handling pet hair and found the seven best models currently available.
These super vacuums can clear the pet hair from your clothes, furniture, and car, so that your home feels sparkling clean.
- Large capacity
- HEPA filter
- Convertible
- Five speeds available
- Easy to move
- Four useful attachments
- Smart head
- Automatic and manual modes
- Easy to store
- Extra large dust cup
- Wide and strong suction
- Convenient design
- Remotely controlled
- High-tech gear
- Highly independent device
- Easy to clean
- Picks up dirt, liquids, and smells
- Two-tank system
- Quick water warm-up
- Kills germs and fleas
- Disposable pads
Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we understand the importance of a thorough analysis and assessment when it comes to finding the best vacuums for pet hair. Our team of professionals has hands-on experience with various models, allowing us to compare their performance and rank them based on criteria such as suction power, ease of use, and effectiveness on different surfaces. We evaluate each vacuum from a user’s perspective, taking into account key decision-making factors like design, features, and value for money. Through our extensive research and testing process, we provide first-hand evidence supporting our recommendations, ensuring you can trust our evaluations and make an informed decision when choosing the ideal vacuum to tackle pet hair in your home.
The Best Vacuums For Pet Hair of 2024
Here are seven fantastic vacuums for sucking up lingering pet hair.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
Best Pet Hair Vacuum for Large Surfaces
This popular upright device has a lot to offer. The wide floor head is ideal for covering large flooring, so it’s a good option if you have a big house.
The swivel steering feature permits circular motions meaning you don’t have to lift the device to change direction. The easy-to-grab handle also provides good maneuverability.
Relatively lightweight at 14 pounds, you can easily move this around the house. Plus, the 30-foot power cord lets you cover a lot of ground without having to unplug the device.
It’s made of durable ABS and polypropylene plastic, so it should last a while (1).
What We Like
4.4 Quarts Dust Bin Capacity
Featuring a dust bin capacity of 4.4 quarts, many users can clean their floors in one go without trips to the garbage can.
To increase the machine’s lifespan, it’s recommended to empty the dust bin when it reaches 2.2 quarts. This prevents the filters from getting clogged with excess dirt.
HEPA Filter
Reviewers with allergies or asthma will like this feature. In addition to a HEPA filter, this device also comes with the “complete seal technology.” So, it can catch allergens and fine dust particles inside the vacuum.
It traps 99.99 percent of these allergens, keeping them out of the air you breathe.
Four Included Tools
This vacuum comes with the necessary tools for versatile cleaning. The main floor head is excellent for cleaning larger floors. Use the small brush attachment to remove hair from your couch, cushions, and other upholstery.
This device also includes a crevice tool and an extension wand. Combine both attachments to reach higher and narrow spaces in your home or car.
You can also attach the “dust away” tool to the extension wand to clean delicate fabric.
Convertible
This device easily converts from an upright to a canister vacuum. The upright position makes it a breeze to clean hardwood floors and carpets.
In a click, the upright vacuum transforms into a canister type. The canister itself only weighs eight pounds. Users seem to love using this setup to remove pet hair from stairs and car interior.
What We Don't Like
Doesn’t Have Wheels
Most canister vacuums come with wheels for easy transportation. They make it easy on your back and minimize excess lifting.
Once transformed into a canister type, the device isn’t supported by wheels. This means that you’ll have to carry the vacuum as you move around.
Product Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Upright and canister |
| Number of Included Attachments | Four |
| HEPA Filter | Yes |
| Weight | 14 pounds |
| Power | 10 amps |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Miele Electro+ Canister Vacuum
Best Energy-Saver Pet Hair Vacuum
Are you looking to save on energy and lower your electricity bill? This vacuum includes five different speed levels, plus a noise reduction mode. Depending on the surface and dirt you’re tackling, you can manually select more or less power.
The stainless-steel handle is light and easy to grip, making maneuverability a breeze. It’s also telescopic so that you can choose your desired height.
Featuring a 3.7-quart dust bin, you can cover quite a lot of ground before it needs emptying. The convenient indicator will inform you when the bag is full and must be replaced.
The HEPA filter comes with 16 bags and four pre-motor protection filters. You shouldn’t have to purchase replacements for a while.
Thankfully, this reputable brand boasts an average lifespan of 20 years. So, you shouldn’t have to worry about the durability of your device.
What We Like
Five Speeds Available
From strong to lighter suction power, you can choose between the five available speed levels. This allows you to adjust the device to the surface you’re cleaning.
Users mainly use “speed five” to clean carpets and “speed one” on hardwood floors. If you want to reduce your noise level, choose the quiet mode.
Easy to Move
The small wheels are ideal for strolling the device around. As you clean, your vacuum will gently follow your path.
Reviewers particularly appreciate the easy-to-grab handle, which makes it a breeze for you to carry up and down stairs.
Four Attachments
Hardwood floors are delicate areas. They can easily get damaged using an inappropriate tool.
While still using the main floor head, you can turn on the hard floor mode to activate the revolving brush. For a more delicate parquet, you can attach a separate nozzle. Users appreciate the genuine bristles which keep their floors in pristine condition.
Use the dusting brush for cleaning cushions and couches. The natural bristles are gentle on the fabric.
The small rectangular upholstery attachment is awesome for cleaning car seats or less delicate fabric. Users often attach the crevice tool for baseboards, corners, and narrow gaps.
What We Don't Like
Durability May Not Meet Price Point
From shutting down for no reason to a broken button soon after purchasing, a few users have complained about the durability.
Given the machine is at a higher price point, it may be worth investigating further before committing.
Product Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Canister |
| Number of Included Attachments | Four |
| HEPA Filter | Yes |
| Weight | 9.39 pounds |
| Power | 1200 watts |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Dyson V11 Torque Drive Cordless Vacuum
Best Pet Hair Vacuum for Digital Assistance
If you get annoyed with cords getting in your way, this vacuum might be worth considering.
We use a Dyson V11 in our home and only have good things to say about it!
Featuring a powerful motor spinning at 125,000 rpm, it represents about twice the power of other cord-free devices. The mini-motorized head produces extra suction, ideal for removing stubborn pet hair.
The stiff nylon bristles are safe and efficient to use on all surfaces. Even better, the device comes with an advanced fully-sealed filtration system. It captures 99.97 percent of dust particles and allergens, catching particles as small as 0.3 microns.
This Dyson vacuum is also easy to manoeuver. The slim design should reach under the lowest furniture. It comes with five versatile attachments and a strong battery allowing 60 minutes of running time.
What We Like
Smart Head
The vacuum head has an LCD screen for displaying important information. It shows the run-time countdown, so you’ll know ahead of time before the battery runs out.
It also displays any maintenance alerts. That way, you’ll know when it’s time to replace the filter or when your vacuum encounters an issue or blockage. It even tells you how to clear potential blockages, which reviewers are grateful for.
Automatic and Manual Modes
Users appreciate having the option to choose between automated and manual modes. This vacuum comes with a “Dynamic Load Sensor.” When using this automatic setup, the sensor detects the surface and changes the mode accordingly.
Do you prefer to control the device manually? Change to the “Eco” or “Boost” modes to adapt the suction power.
Easy to Store
Is there anything more annoying than a vacuum constantly falling or tipping over when stored away?
The convenient docking system can be attached to the wall. It doesn’t only store your device but also all the included attachments.
Transforms Into a Handheld Device
In a click, this stick vacuum transforms into a handheld device. Customers welcome the versatility of this vacuum. They can catch pet hair between car seats or remove them from the car door pocket.
What We Don't Like
Not Suited for Large Homes
This vacuum provides about 60 minutes of running time in regular mode. Users record a much shorter running time when used on carpets or set in the “boost” mode.
This device is ideal for small spaces, such as condos or apartments. It might, however, be too small for larger homes.
Product Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Stick and handheld |
| Number of Included Attachments | Five |
| HEPA Filter | Yes |
| Weight | 6.7 pounds |
| Power | 30.5 volts |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Eureka PowerSpeed Pet Turbo Vacuum
Best Height Adjustable Pet Hair Vacuum
If you have various floor types throughout your home, consider this vacuum. Eureka made it to be multi-surface compatible due to the five height-adjustable settings. So you can raise the brush roller inside to suit hard floors or deep carpets and anything in between.
No matter where the mess is in your house, this can handle it.
Pet owners: you’ll also love the different attachments that come with this vacuum. It comes with a pet turbo tool that sucks up pet hair on every surface, including upholstery.
In addition, it comes with a crevice tool for those tight corners, a dusting brush, and a secondary upholstery tool. You can store everything on the vacuum, making it easy to access any attachment at any time!
What We Like
Extra Large Dust Cup
With over a six-liter capacity, this extra-large dust cup can hold a lot of dirt between emptying. When you need to empty it, the bagless container is easy to empty into the trash without the enormous dust cloud that comes with other vacuums.
Wide Head and Strong Suction
With a 12.6-inch wide cleaning path, you can clean your floors quicker than before. As a result, it collects more dust per pass across your floors. It also ensures super strong suction, so you’ll be wowed by how clean your floors are in no time.
Convenient Design
Customers love how well-designed this vacuum is. While it’s not super compact or lightweight, it’s great in many other ways. Firstly, it has onboard storage for all the handy tools so that you won’t lose them.
Secondly, it is easy to assemble. It comes in two parts that are easy to put together, so you don’t have to struggle with a challenging construction experience.
What We Don't Like
Sometimes Suction Is Too Strong
Who would have thought this could be a problem? But it is. Some customers found that the suction was too much to vacuum over their rugs smoothly. Others found that the vacuum sucked up the cord, which caused damage.
10 Pounds Heavy
This is one heavy vacuum. It weighs 10 pounds and is quite challenging to maneuver compared to other options on the market. Some people even experienced arm and back pain while using this. If you struggle with heavy power tools, you may want something lighter.
Product Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Upright and bagless |
| Number of Included Attachments | Four |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Power | 960 watts |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
iRobot Roomba Vacuum
Best High-Tech Pet Hair Vacuum Option
Have you ever dreamt of having a little assistant vacuum for you? Your dreams might well come to reality.
Whether you’re home or out for the day, this robot vacuum will wander around your house. It’ll pick up your pet hair and other dirt along the way.
Featuring a quality lithium-ion battery, the charge lasts for 90 minutes. It will even detect and pass over thresholds and low obstacles. Once the task is over, your robot will return to its base to charge until its next use.
Compatible with both Google Assistant and Amazon’s Alexa, your robot might become an extension to the family.
It even delivers cleaning reports after the task is over. Plus, the robot comes with one extra filter and a flat cleaning tool.
What We Like
Control it Remotelly
You don’t even need to be home to use your robot. You can download the Roomba application on both iOS and Android phones.
From your smartphone, schedule when and which room to clean. If you tend to forget about Roomba, set a weekly cleaning schedule while you’re at work. This gives you more time you can spend with your family or do things you love.
High-Tech Gear
The robot uses the latest technology to ensure your floors get all the care they deserve.
The “Dirt Detect” technology will automatically detect the areas of your home that need the most work. It will then work harder on these high-traffic areas.
It also comes with a “Smart Mapping” mode which lets you create virtual walls around the house. Users often use these walls to avoid stairs and any areas they judge unfit for the robot.
Highly Independent Device
Whether you’re at home or away, your robot will proceed with its required tasks. It will make up to 60 decisions per second to ensure your floors are cleaned throughout.
It will sweep corners and edges. At just 3.7-inches tall, it will even clean under your furniture or around any clutter. Users appreciate that they don’t need to intervene during the cleaning.
Cleans All Surfaces
Customers love that the Roomba is designed to clean all types of floors, hard grounds, and carpet.
The robot uses a three-stage cleaning system. This allows the device to loosen, lift and suction debris. It will detect larger dirt particles as well as tiny particles and dust.
The head auto-adjusts to the surface it needs to clean. This enables it to keep the brush as close to the surface as possible.
What We Don't Like
Uneven Coverage
A few customers have reported uneven coverage. The robot will cover certain areas a few times while “forgetting” about other surfaces.
Small Bin
While it might be ideal for smaller condos and apartments, it might be too small for larger homes. Emptying the bin in the middle of a cleaning task might seem counter-intuitive.
Some users have purchased two devices for larger homes, setting them up to clean separate areas of their homes. This, however, doubles the initial investment.
Product Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Robot |
| Number of Included Attachments | None |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 7.8 pounds |
| Power | Not indicated |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Bissell CrossWave Wet-Dry Vacuum
Best Pet Hair Vacuum for All Floors
Are you looking for a vacuum able to accomplish different tasks at once? A vacuum to remove your pet hair but also other messes?
This device will go beyond catching your pet’s hair. Acting like a vacuum mop combo, it cleans all types of messes. From dog pee to the juice or food your kid has just dropped.
It’s also a great multi-surface option. It cleans carpets, sealed and pressed wood floors, laminate floors, linoleum, and rubber floor mats. The swivel head makes the vacuum a breeze to steer and maneuver on all grounds.
The 25-foot power cord should give you enough length to clean large areas of your home at a time. With two devices in one, it also saves storage space.
What We Like
Easy to Clean
Even vacuums need to be washed. Reviewers report that this is a smooth and easy process.
The device comes with a storage tray. For a quick cleanup, place the vacuum in the tray, and pour some water on the brush window.
Run the machine a few seconds to clean the window, brush, and the air path.
Picks Up Dirt, Liquids, and Smells
While vacuuming pet hair, why not use this opportunity to also remove paw prints, mud, and other dirt?
This device uses a nylon brush with microfibers. It features a power of 4.4 amps and a spinning speed of 3,000 rpm. The included liquid pet formula removes odors. Users love the fresh scent it leaves behind.
Two-Tank System
Unlike regular mop buckets, this vacuum separates the clean water from the dirty water.
Place the cleaning liquid in the top tank. The dirty water will be poured into a separate transparent lower tank. This second tank conveniently detaches to be emptied when needed.
Smart-Touch Controls
This device is also simple to use. The handle features a smart-touch control system. With the touch of a button, switch from the carpet to the hard floor cleaning mode.
A simple click will also dispense the right amount of cleaning liquid. This gives users more control when they’re cleaning delicate surfaces.
What We Don't Like
Cleans Floors Only
This device is primarily designed to clean large surface areas. The 28-ounce clean water tank should clean up to 700 square feet at a time.
It, however, doesn’t transform into a canister or handheld type of vacuum. Users regret that it doesn’t come with smaller attachments. If you’re looking for a vacuum to clean upholstery or your car, this device might not fit your needs.
Product Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Wet/dry vacuum |
| Number of Included Attachments | None |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 11 pounds |
| Power | 4.4 amps |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Bissell Pet Steam Mop and Steam Vacuum
Best Sanitizing Pet Hair Vacuum
Pets can carry germs and fleas, which becomes a more significant issue. If you’re looking for a device to both vacuum and sanitize your flooring, this option is worth considering.
This versatile vacuum from Bissell uses steam to kill these undesirables. Although this device uses high heat, it can safely be used on ceramic, marble, granite, linoleum, and sealed hardwood surfaces.
Choose between three different modes: vacuum only, steam only, or both functionalities at once.
The steam doesn’t leave moisture behind, so it should keep your floors and dust bin dry.
Featuring a water tank capacity of 12.8 ounces, you’ll be able to vacuum and steam large surfaces at once. The 11-inch cleaning path and the 25-foot power cord will make this task even easier.
What We Like
30 Seconds Water Warm-Up
This warming process is necessary before its initial use and if you need to replace the water while cleaning. Some steam cleaners can take more than 10 minutes to warm up the water.
This steam vacuum heats up in an impressively quick 30 seconds. Consumers are thrilled to start steam vacuuming in no time.
Kills Germs, Bacteria, and Fleas
Steam is a natural and chemical-free solution killing 99.9 percent of bacteria. It’s efficient on flat floors and densely carpeted flooring. It kills not only germs but also potential flea larvae.
From the handle, choose between high, low, or no steam. Users enjoy the control they have over the steam flow.
The steam leaves little-to-no moisture on your floor and carpets, which prevents mold and mildew from developing.
Disposable Pads
This device comes with two microfiber pads for mopping: one scrubby and one soft.
It also comes with four Swiffer Steamboost pads.
You should be ready to go upon delivery without having to run out and purchase extras too soon.
What We Don't Like
Difficult to Maneuver
Users report that the device isn’t easy to use and maneuver. It doesn’t come with a swivel head, making its general use more challenging.
It also doesn’t transform into a canister or handheld vacuum, making it more cumbersome to lift.
Product Specs
| Vacuum Type(s) | Steam |
| Number of Included Attachments | None |
| HEPA Filter | No |
| Weight | 9.74 pounds |
| Power | 400 watts vacuum, 1100 watts steam |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Type(s) | Attachments | HEPA Filter | Weight | Power |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Navigator | For Large Surfaces | Upright & canister | 4 | Yes | 14 lbs | 1200 W |
| Miele Electro+ | To Save Energy | Canister | 4 | Yes | 9.39 lbs | 1200 W |
| Dyson V11 | For Digital Assistance | Stick & handheld | 5 | Yes | 6.7 lbs | 500 W |
| Eureka PowerSpeed Pet Turbo | Height Adjustable | Upright and bagless | 4 | No | 10 lbs | 960 W |
| iRobot Roomba | High-Tech Option | Robot | None | No | 7.8 lbs | — |
| Bissell CrossWave | For All Floors | Wet/dry vacuum | None | No | 11 lbs | 560 W |
| Bissell Pet Steam | Sanitizing Vacuum | Steam | None | No | 9.74 lbs | 400 W vacuum, 1100 W steam |
How to Choose a Vacuum for Pet Hair
There are many types of vacuums available for removing pet hair. Heading to your department store without understanding what to look for will be overwhelming. To avoid a frustrating experience, here are the key elements to consider.
Your Space
Your vacuum’s usage will determine what type and features you’ll need. What and where will you be cleaning? Make sure to choose a vacuum that works on your floor types and is the right size for your floor size.
Home Type
If you’re looking to remove pet hair from a large home, you might want to consider an upright vacuum. They have larger bins, stronger power, and a wider floor head.
If you live in an apartment or small condo, choosing a more compact option might be wise. A stick vacuum, for example, would be preferable as it’s easier to store.
In addition, if you need to remove pet hair from furniture, make sure the vacuum has the extra attachments and features you may need.
Finally, consider what type of floor you have. If you’re mainly cleaning a hardwood floor, you’ll need to ensure the vacuum doesn’t scratch it.
Car
Removing pet hair from inside your car requires a different set of features. You’ll likely need a handheld or canister vacuum. Crevice tools and brushes will also be necessary here.
Power
Power is another critical component to consider while selecting your vacuum. The more power there is, the more efficient your vacuum will be.
This feature is crucial when it comes to carpet cleaning. If you mainly clean hard floors, a low power device may still bring the needed efficiency.
So, to remove pet hair properly, we recommend a minimum power of 10 amps.
Powerful devices, however, consume more electricity and might increase your monthly bill.
Power Cord Length
If you opt for a powered vacuum, we recommend a minimum length of 25 to 30 feet.
Plugging and unplugging your device will lengthen your cleaning time and rapidly become frustrating. Cordless options are great. We use one in our home and love it. Just remember the extra time it takes to charge the battery, usually between one and four hours, depending on the brand.
Noise
A noisy vacuum can make this task even more annoying for you, but also the rest of the family and potentially your neighbors.
Selecting a device emitting a maximum of 65 decibels is recommended. The most powerful devices are often the noisiest ones, so it’s important to find the right balance.
Useful Attachments
Your vacuum may come with accessories, or you may need to purchase them separately. Either way, they add functionality, versatility, and maneuverability.
Upholstery Tool
This tool has a similar design to a floor head — narrow, with a soft brush. It’s ideal for capturing your pet’s hair in your car, on your couch, or on other materials. Some of them also come with strips or rubber heads which increase their efficiency.
Crevice Tool
A crevice tool is a long, narrow accessory made of plastic. This tool is mainly used to clean hard-to-reach places, such as corners, baseboards, and under furniture. They also make great spider catchers.
This is a handy one for cleaning your car.
Extension Wand
This attachment is exclusively used in canister and stick vacuums. Attach the wand to extend your reach. The crevice tool can be attached at the end of the extension wand.
Mattress Tool
If your pet spends a great deal of time on your couch or bed, a mattress tool might be necessary. These are quite wide in order to cover large areas at once.
However, the end of the attachment is narrow to catch pet hair inside the curbs or lines. A few models also come with their own engine. Most feature a textured end to capture unwanted pet hair.
Brushes
A dusting brush is composed of soft bristles for cleaning delicate surfaces or objects, such as a keyboard.
A motorized brush roll offers extra power and is often used on carpets. Its main purpose is to shake up and detach the pet hair for better cleaning.
We recommend having a close look at the brush bristles. Ensure that they’re stiff since soft bristles will only push the hair around.
Also, be sure that the engine is powerful enough to capture the hair and send it off to the vacuum bin. Hair will get stuck in the brush if the power is too weak.
A hard floor brush is mainly found on canister and upright devices. The short and condensed bristles will catch hair and tiny dust particles.
A power brush or power nozzle is for cleaning stairs and upholstery. The best ones come with their own motors, while others use the air generated by the vacuum to spin the brush.
HEPA Filter
A HEPA filter is a feature to consider for anyone suffering from asthma or allergies (2).
The filters are made of small holes which trap tiny dust particles and other allergens. Some models come with washable filters, which you can reuse.
Bag or Bagless
Bag vacuums are less messy to use. They’re convenient and can empty into your garbage in a one-step process. They are, however, an additional expense to account for.
Bagless vacuum devices gather the dirt in a dedicated dust bin. This bin has to be cleaned but doesn’t require any additional costs.
Hose Length
Canister types and the newest upright vacuum models have a flexible hose to reach higher places. If you plan on reaching high corners or above tall furniture, it might be something to consider.
Weight
If you’re looking to combine cleaning and a workout session, your vacuum weight might not be significant. But, looking for a smooth and easy process, with as little effort as possible? Your device’s weight will play a prominent role.
Some upright vacuums can weigh over 20 pounds. So, consider this if you’re planning to clean a staircase or carry it around the house.
Additionally, if you have limited mobility or a back injury, you might want to consider a robot vacuum. Your robot assistant will do all the work for you.
Durability
A vacuum to remove pet hair is often a significant investment. Yet, it can be difficult to determine the quality and durability of a device. Every brand claims to be selling the best device, and it’s easy to get caught up in marketing claims.
The first indication to consider might be customer reviews. We also recommend selecting vacuums from trusted brands.
The most common brands are Dyson, Miele, Hoover, Shark, and Bissell. These often back up their products with generous warranties if any issue arises.
FAQs
What Vacuum Cleaner is Best for Pet Hair?
In our opinion, the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair is the Shark Rotator TruePet Upright. It has a detachable canister, extra large capacity, and is great for allergies. The best cordless vacuum cleaner is the Dyson V11 Torque Drive.
Why is My Vacuum Not Picking Up Dog Hair?
Your vacuum cleaner is not picking up dog hair because you have a full dust canister. Empty it and remove any pet hair stuck inside the hose.
Are Canister Vacuums Better for Pets?
Canister vacuums are better for pets because they are powerful, flexible, and can reach tight spaces. They also have higher suction, which ideal for removing pet dander, bacteria, and ground-in dirt. You can even use them to de-hair drapes and soft furnishings.
How Can I Keep My Pet Hair Under Control?
Keep pet hair under control by brushing your pets regularly, lay down soft throws for them to sleep on, and buy rugs for wooden floors. Another method is to place throws on soft furnishings and invest in a dry mop, like this O-Cedar Microfiber Sweeper.
