The Best Type of Vacuums for Pet Hair

Upright vacuums are a popular choice for pet owners because of their strong suction and wide cleaning path. Models like the Dyson Animal series come with specialized brushes that can dig deep into carpets to remove embedded pet hair. They're easy to maneuver and often include HEPA filters to trap allergens. If you have wall-to-wall carpeting and multiple pets, an upright vacuum might be the best choice for you.

The upright design also allows for more substantial motor power, translating to more effective cleaning. Many models come with adjustable height settings, allowing you to transition seamlessly from carpets to hard floors. The attachments, such as crevice tools and upholstery brushes, further enhance their versatility.

Canister vacuums offer flexibility and power, making them great for homes with a mix of carpet and hard floors. They often come with a variety of attachments, including pet hair brushes. The Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog is a standout in this category, with adjustable suction and a sealed system to keep allergens at bay.

Canister vacuums are known for their maneuverability, allowing you to reach under furniture and tight corners. The separate canister unit can be heavy, but it usually comes with wheels for easy transportation. The long hoses and various attachments make it ideal for cleaning stairs, curtains, and even car interiors. If you need a vacuum that can handle various surfaces, a canister vacuum could be your go-to option.

For quick clean-ups and smaller spaces, stick vacuums like the Shark Rocket Pet Pro are a fantastic option. They're lightweight, cordless, and often convert into handheld vacuums for furniture and car cleaning. While they may not have the power of an upright or canister vacuum, they're perfect for daily maintenance and keeping pet hair under control. Stick vacuums are ideal for apartment living or homes with limited storage space.

The cordless design offers freedom of movement, and the slim profile allows you to reach tight spaces easily. Many models come with a wall-mountable charging dock, ensuring that your vacuum is always ready to go. If you're looking for a convenient, space-saving solution, a stick vacuum might be the perfect choice.

If you're looking for a hands-free solution, robot vacuums like the iRobot Roomba i7+ with Clean Base might be the answer. These smart vacuums can be scheduled to clean while you're away, and some even empty themselves. They're great for maintaining a pet hair-free home without lifting a finger. Just be sure to choose a model designed to handle pet hair, as not all robot vacuums are up to the task.

Robot vacuums are equipped with sensors to navigate around furniture and obstacles, ensuring thorough cleaning. Some models even map your home, allowing you to target specific rooms or areas. The convenience of scheduling cleaning sessions via a smartphone app adds to their appeal. If you lead a busy lifestyle, a robot vacuum could be a game-changer.

Handheld vacuums, such as the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser, are perfect for spot cleaning and reaching those hard-to-get areas like stairs and upholstery. They're compact, powerful, and often come with attachments specifically designed for pet hair. If you need a vacuum for quick clean-ups or to complement your main vacuum, a handheld model might be just what you need.

Because they're portable, they are great for cleaning car interiors, pet beds, and small messes that don't require a full-sized vacuum. Many models are battery-operated, offering the flexibility to clean anywhere without worrying about cords. If you're looking for a versatile and handy tool, a handheld vacuum is a must-have.

Wet/dry vacuums like the Shop-Vac are versatile tools that can handle both dry pet hair and wet messes like spills or pet accidents. They're rugged, powerful, and can be a lifesaver in a home with messy pets. If you need a vacuum that can handle anything your pet throws at it, a wet/dry vacuum could be the right choice. These vacuums are designed for heavy-duty cleaning, with large capacity tanks and durable construction. They can handle everything from spilled water bowls to muddy paw prints, making them an invaluable tool for pet owners.

The ability to switch between wet and dry cleaning modes adds to their versatility, and the range of attachments ensures that you can tackle any mess. If you're looking for a robust and reliable cleaning solution, a wet/dry vacuum is worth considering.

Central vacuum systems have outlets installed throughout the home to offer convenience and power. They're quiet, efficient, and perfect for homes with multiple pets. With specialized pet hair attachments and no need to lug around a heavy unit, central vacuum systems provide a top-tier cleaning solution for pet owners.

This design eliminates the need to carry a vacuum from room to room, making cleaning a breeze. The powerful suction ensures that pet hair and dander are effectively removed, while the centralized filtration system keeps allergens contained. If you're looking for a seamless and efficient cleaning experience, a central vacuum system might be the investment you need.

Cordless vacuums are gaining popularity among pet owners for their convenience and ease of use. Without the restriction of a cord, you can move freely around your home, cleaning pet hair from every nook and cranny. Models like the Hoover ONEPWR Blade Max offer strong suction and long battery life, suitable for both quick clean-ups and more extensive cleaning sessions.

Many cordless vacuums come with specialized pet tools and are designed to work on various surfaces, from carpets to hardwood floors. If you're looking for a flexible and user-friendly option in a home with pets, a cordless vacuum might be the perfect choice.

Bagged vacuums, such as the Kenmore Elite Pet-Friendly, provide a hygienic way to deal with pet hair. The vacuum bags are designed to trap dust, dander, and hair, ensuring that they don't escape back into the air when you empty the vacuum. This feature can be particularly beneficial for people with allergies.

Bagged vacuums typically offer strong suction and come with various attachments to handle pet hair on different surfaces. The downside is the ongoing cost of replacement bags, but many pet owners find the cleanliness and efficiency of bagged vacuums worth the investment.

Bagless vacuums, like the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional, offer the advantage of not having to buy replacement bags. Filters trap dirt and pet hair, and these can usually be washed and reused. The transparent dust containers let you see when it's time to empty the vacuum, and the process is often simple and mess-free.

Bagless vacuums are generally more eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run. If you prefer a low-maintenance option that still provides excellent pet hair cleaning performance, a bagless vacuum might be the right choice for you.