AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
Our furry friends bring endless joy into our lives, but unfortunately, pets can also leave behind a mess. Nothing sticks to furniture, clothing, carpets and other surfaces like fur, and cleaning up can get more than a little “hairy.” To restore your home to its sparkling condition, it’s necessary to purchase a vacuum that’s built for the job. I spoke to multiple cleaning experts, as well as a veterinarian, to find vacuums specifically designed to blast away pesky pet hair so you can get back to enjoying your fur baby’s company.
What to consider when buying vacuum cleaners for pet hair
I caught up with Angela Brown, host of the Ask a House Cleaner show. She says that when choosing a vacuum for pet hair, “It's essential to consider factors such as suction power, filtration system, brush type and overall durability, to make sure the vacuum meets your needs.”
I also spoke to Toby Schulz, CEO and founder of Maid2Match, who also offered a few additional considerations.
Corded vs. cordless
“Cordless vacuums are more convenient since they’re lighter and easier to carry around,” says Schulz. ���You don’t need to worry about tripping over a cord. However, they have short run times (usually 45 to 60 minutes maximum) and lower suction power. Corded vacuum cleaners are more powerful and aren’t limited by run time. But, they’ll be a bit heavier, and you’re restricted by the cord length and outlet placement in your home.
Suction power
Schulz agrees with Brown: It’s important to select a vacuum with the appropriate amount of suction power. “Suction power varies across vacuum models; corded vacuums generally have stronger suction than cordless ones,” he says. “Some high-end vacuums, such as the Dyson V15 Detect, have suction power up to 230 AW. A good range for suction power for pet vacuums is 150-200 AW.”
Filtration
Proper filtration is a must when cleaning up pet hair. “You need a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, which can capture particles down to 0.3 microns in size,” says Schulz. “They’re very effective at capturing and filtering pet dander and other allergens.”
Types of vacuum cleaners
According to Brown, “Vacuum cleaners come in various styles, each designed for specific needs and preferences.” She offers the following broad vacuum categories and descriptions to aid in your search.
Upright vacuums
Upright vacuums stand upright and are excellent for deep cleaning carpets. Their design allows for easy storage and straightforward use, making them popular in households.
Canister vacuums
Canister vacuums have a separate canister attached to a long wand and hose, offering flexibility and power. They excel in cleaning stairs, hard-to-reach areas and under furniture.
Stick vacuums
Stick vacuums are lightweight and often cordless, offering convenience for quick cleanups and smaller spaces. They're great for hardwood floors and light carpeting.
Handheld vacuums
Handheld vacuums are compact and easy to carry, making them perfect for spot-cleaning car interiors and furniture. They're designed for quick, on-the-go messes.
Robot vacuums
Robot vacuums operate autonomously, offering convenience and time savings. They are ideal for maintaining clean floors with minimal effort and navigating obstacles, and they can often be controlled via smartphones.
Wet/dry vacuums
Wet/dry vacuums are versatile and particularly useful in garages, workshops and outdoor use. They can pick up dry dust and liquid spills.
Central vacuum systems
Central vacuum systems are installed into buildings or homes as semi-permanent fixtures. They offer powerful suction and convenience. You only need to carry a hose and attachment from room to room, eliminating the need to lug around a heavy unit.
Drum vacuums
Drum vacuums are primarily used in commercial or industrial settings. They have a large capacity for heavy-duty cleaning and can handle debris that is both wet and dry.
Backpack vacuums
Backpack vacuums provide mobility and ease of use, particularly in commercial settings or for cleaning large areas quickly.
Our top picks for the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair
Best robotic vacuum for pet hair: iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum
iRobot® Roomba® s9+
I’ve long dreamed of owning a robot vacuum, and according to Schulz, many people share this dream. “Robot vacuums are a huge help for people who may not have time to vacuum regularly, or for pet owners who want help keeping on top of their pet’s shedding,” he says. “The iRobot Roomba s9 has a three-stage cleaning system that lifts, loosens and then sucks up pet hair on anything from hard floors to carpets. It also comes with dual rubber anti-tangle brushes that are great for pet hair.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Carpet, hardwood, hard surfaces.
- Power supply: Battery-powered.
- Weight: 20 pounds.
- Bin size: Holds 60 days of dirt.
- HEPA filter: Unspecified.
- Battery life: 120 minutes.
- Attachments included: None.
- Price on publish: $599.99.
What we like:
- Great suction power.
- Sleek appearance.
- Fits better in corners.
What we don’t like:
- Expensive.
- Occasional error codes.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Simply and elegantly designed, the iRobot Roomba s9+ is one of the finest robot vacuums on the market.
Get it here: iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum
Best vacuum for pet hair on hardwood floors: Pure ONE S15 Pet Smart Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Pure ONE S15 Pet Smart Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
If you’ve been using a carpet vacuum on a hardwood floor, you may not get the best results. “Tineco’s is designed specifically for pets and works on multiple surfaces, including hard floors,” says Schulz. “It features fully-sealed, five-layer HEPA filtration and an automatic iLoop Smart Sensor that adjusts suction power according to detected dirt and debris.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Hardwood, hard surfaces.
- Power supply: Cordless, battery chargeable.
- Weight: 6.8 pounds.
- Bin size: 0.47 liters.
- HEPA filter: Yes.
- Battery life: 40 minutes.
- Attachments included: Brush and crevice attachments.
- Price on publish: $379.99.
What we like:
- Very lightweight and easy to use.
- Quiet and doesn’t make much noise.
- Impressive accessories.
What we don’t like:
- 4 hours to fully charge the battery.
- The charge doesn’t last long on full strength.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Pure ONE S15 Pet Smart Cordless Vacuum is a terrific lightweight option for pet hair on hardwood floors and other surfaces.
Get it here: Pure ONE S15 Pet Smart Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Best vacuum for pet hair on carpet: Dyson Ball Animal 2 Upright Corded Vacuum
Dyson Ball Animal 2 Upright Corded Vacuum
Getting pet hair out of your carpet can be a huge hassle, so getting the right vacuum is a must. “Dyson’s Ball Animal 2 Upright Corded Vacuum is great for getting fur and dander out of carpets, whether low, mid or high pile,” says Schulz. “It has a 0.55-gallon dust bin, up to 270 AW suction power and the ball design lets you maneuver the vacuum with ease. Plus, you have a very long, 40-foot reach.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Carpet.
- Power supply: Corded plug-in.
- Weight: 17.4 pounds.
- Bin size: 1.7 liter.
- HEPA filter: Yes.
- Battery life: N/A.
- Attachments included: Combination tool, stair tool and HEPA filter.
- Price on publish: $388.60.
What we like:
- Incredible suction power.
- Wide head allows quick cleaning.
- Power cord is a decent length.
What we don’t like:
- Somewhat heavy.
- Stair tool is not easy to use.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Dyson’s Ball Animal 2 Upright is an amazing corded vacuum for eliminating pet hair on carpets.
Get it here: Dyson Ball Animal 2 Upright Corded Vacuum
Best rated vacuum cleaner for pet hair: Dyson V15 Detect
Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Schulz chose the Dyson V15 as the best vacuum for pet hair because “it’s hard to beat in almost any department. It has strong suction power at up to 230 AW and up to 60 minutes of run time (depending on the settings). The digital motorbar and hair screw tool can deep clean all floor types while detangling pet hair as you go.”
Specifications:
- Best for: All floors, hard floors, upholstery.
- Power supply: Cordless.
- Weight: 6.8 pounds.
- Bin size: 0.2 gallons.
- HEPA filter: Yes.
- Battery life: 34 minutes.
- Attachments included: Crevice tool, combination tool, hair screw tool and wall mount.
- Price on publish: $598.99.
What we like:
- Illumination reveals dust otherwise unseen.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Comes with wall mount.
What we don’t like:
- Price is steep.
- Battery life could be longer.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Dyson V15 Detect vacuum is a highly-rated vacuum that helps you maintain a better environment for yourself and your animals.
Get it here: Dyson V15 Detect
Best handheld vacuum for pet hair: The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser
I find a great handheld vacuum is sometimes preferable to a corded one, simply because it’s easier to use. “The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser is a staple for pet owners who want a handheld vacuum,” says Schulz. “The motorized brush tool removes embedded pet hair and dander from most surfaces. It even has an upholstery tool. Plus, for every purchase, Bissell will donate $5 towards rescuing and helping homeless pets!”
Specifications:
- Best for: Upholstery.
- Power supply: Cordless.
- Weight: 3 pounds.
- Bin size: 0.18-gallon capacity.
- HEPA filter: Unspecified.
- Battery life: 17 minutes.
- Attachments included: Crevice tool, upholstery tool and brush tool.
- Price on publish: $79.99.
What we like:
- Suction power is impressive.
- Sturdy construction.
- Attachments are helpful.
What we don’t like:
- No LED light.
- Short battery life.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Our animals require constant care, but the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser provides an easy clean on any surface, from carpets and couches to dog beds and cat carriers.
Get it here: The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser
Best upright vacuum cleaner for pet hair: Dyson Ball Animal 3
Dyson Ball Animal 3 vacuum
Brown chose the Dyson Ball Animal 3 as the best upright vacuum for pet hair because, she says, “it stands out for its strong suction power and maneuverability on different types of floors. It has a de-tangling motorbar™ cleaner head, it’s corded, has whole-machine filtration and it’s bagless.”
Specifications:
- Best for: All floors.
- Power supply: Corded electrical.
- Weight: 17.3 pounds.
- Bin size: 0.55 gallons.
- HEPA filter: N/A.
- Battery life: N/A.
- Attachments included: Combination tool, stair tool and tool holder.
- Price on publish: $399.99.
What we like:
- Unparalleled suction power.
- Fairly long cord.
- Canister is easy to dump.
What we don’t like:
- Attachments can fall off at times.
- Some plastic pieces on the vacuum feel less durable.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Pet hair often provides a challenge that only an upright can handle, and the Dyson Ball Animal 3 is powerful and easy to maneuver.
Get it here: Dyson Ball Animal 3
Best canister vacuum for pet hair: Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog
Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog
When nothing but the best will suffice, Miele is a top-quality brand. “The Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog offers excellent filtration and is specifically designed to tackle pet hair,” says Brown. “It is a bagless canister vacuum with strong suction power and is ideal for pet owners and all flooring types. This vacuum can switch between four suction power settings for various surfaces.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Upholstery.
- Power supply: Corded electric.
- Weight: 19 pounds.
- Bin size: Unspecified.
- HEPA filter: HEPA AirClean lifetime filter.
- Battery life: N/A.
- Attachments included: Dusting brush, parquet twister floorhead, electro plus floorhead, crevice tool and handheld turbo brush.
- Price on publish: $999.95.
What we like:
- Great suction power.
- Multiple power settings for motor.
- Cord windup is convenient.
What we don’t like:
- Price is prohibitive.
- A little bulky for using on stairs.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog is a terrific canister vacuum for pet hair.
Get it here: Miele Blizzard CX1 Cat & Dog
Best stick vacuum for pet hair: Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Cordless
Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Cordless
When it comes to stick vacuums, “The Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal is a great choice,” says Brown. “It provides powerful suction in a lightweight, versatile design, making it great for quick cleanups. It removes pet hair from upholstery and tight spaces with an anti-tangle conical brush bar.”
Specifications:
- Best for: All floors.
- Power supply: Cordless.
- Weight: 5.7 pounds.
- Bin size: 0.2 gallons.
- HEPA filter: N/A.
- Battery life: 60 minutes.
- Attachments included: Combination tool, mini soft dusting brush, docking station, hair screw tool, charger and crevice tool.
- Price on publish: $485.
What we like:
- Very lightweight.
- Good suction for a small vacuum.
- Battery stays charged for a long time.
What we don’t like:
- Must hold the “On” button to use.
- No light for seeing in dim areas.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Both light and effective, the Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Cordless is an excellent stick vacuum for pet hair.
Get it here: Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Cordless
Best budget vacuum for pet hair: Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum
Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum
Although a quality vacuum can often be pricey, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get something that cleans well. “The Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright vacuum cleaner is often recommended for its affordability and effectiveness,” says Brown. “It is a powerful, multi-surface vacuum with five height adjustment settings. This versatile vacuum can quickly adapt between hard floors and deep carpets.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Multi-surface.
- Power supply: Corded electric.
- Weight: 10 pounds.
- Bin size: 2.6 liters.
- HEPA filter: Unspecified.
- Battery life: N/A.
- Attachments included: Crevice tool, dusting brush and upholstery tool.
- Price on publish: $89.99.
What we like:
- Price is reasonable.
- Fairly lightweight.
- Suction power is good.
What we don’t like:
- No retractable cord.
- Loud for a small vacuum.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum is a beast for battling pet hair on a budget.
Get it here: Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum
Best vacuum cleaner for pet hair for large spaces: Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet-Friendly Upright Vacuum
Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet-Friendly Upright Vacuum
A large home can be a joy, but cleaning it is anything but. If you want a vacuum designed for large spaces, Brown recommends the Kenmore Elite 31150 because “it’s known for its wide cleaning path and powerful suction, which makes it ideal for large areas. The Pet Handimate hose attachment is an air-driven, turbine roller brush, which easily removes dander, stubborn pet hair and other debris from furniture, stairs and out of your vehicle.”
Specifications:
- Best for: Multi-surface.
- Power supply: Corded electric.
- Weight: 25.7 pounds.
- Bin size: Unspecified.
- HEPA filter: Yes.
- Battery life: N/A.
- Attachments included: Nozzle, HEPA Filter, crevice tool and brush.
- Price on publish: $489.99.
What we like:
- Very powerful motor.
- Headlights are useful for dim areas.
- Extended wand helps reach difficult places.
What we don’t like:
- Price is steep.
- Not lightweight.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For making pet cleanup a little less hairy, the Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet-Friendly Upright Vacuum is a stellar option for pet hair in large spaces.
Get it here: Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet-Friendly Upright Vacuum
How we selected the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair
To identify the best vacuum cleaners for pet hair, I sought the opinions of various experts, from cleaning experts to veterinarians. With their advice guiding me, I narrowed down other options by reading reviews and comparing product details. I found three main categories worth paying attention to: accessories and features, surfaces and price.
Accessories and features
The accessories and features of your vacuum are crucial components of how well it works. As Schulz says, “Make sure you get a vacuum that has attachments or accessories specifically for pet hair! Check for rotating brush rolls with anti-tangle features, which are better at picking up the finer pet hair that sticks to surfaces due to static electricity. Other accessories to look for include crevice tools, brush tools and upholstery attachments. Moreover, some vacuums have ‘self-cleaning’ brush rolls or removable vacuum heads that make it easier to maintain them.”
Surfaces
It’s important to select a vacuum designed to work on the surfaces where pet hair generally collects in your home. Schulz agrees, adding, “If you have rugs, for example, opt for a vacuum that has a carpet attachment or that automatically detects surfaces and changes settings accordingly. Those latter ones may be more expensive, but they’d be worth the convenience.” For this list, I selected a range of vacuums that work across a variety of surfaces; you’ll find something to love on this list no matter what surface needs cleaning.
Price
Price is always a critical factor in any purchase; to identify the vacuums on this list, I made sure to select vacuums across a range of different price points.
Maintenance and care tips for vacuum cleaners for pet hair
Since you can’t simply throw your vacuum cleaner into the washing machine, how do you keep it in sparkling condition? “Empty the vacuum after each use and check the roller bar or beater brush to make sure it is free of debris, pet hair, people's hair, rubber bands, strings or dental floss,” advises Brown. “Make sure the wheels are clean and free of gunk.”
Schulz also offers additional maintenance tips: “Frequently check the roller bars and vacuum head to untangle and remove any trapped pet hair (or human hair). Wash and/or replace the filters regularly to ensure you’re getting a thorough cleaning. And of course, empty the canister or bag when it hits 80% capacity.”
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the best vacuum to pick up dog hair on hardwood floors?
According to Brown, “The Dyson V15 Detect is highly praised for its powerful suction and ability to adapt to different floor types. This makes it excellent for hardwood floors. It's also cordless, so it's a favorite among seniors who need a lightweight vacuum.”
Is Bissell or Shark better?
Schulz believes there are pros and cons to both. “Both brands have excellent vacuum cleaner models specifically for pet hair: the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser and the Shark NV752 Lift-Away TruePet Upright,” he says. “Both are also affordable, but Shark vacuums tend to be a little lighter. It will mostly come down to availability and the features you need.”
Can vacuuming harm my pets?
According to Dr. Sara Ochoa, veterinarian and co-founder of How To Pets, “Vacuuming can pose some risks to pets, but with proper precautions and awareness, you can minimize potential harm and create a safe environment for your beloved companions.” Here's what Ochoa says you need to know:
- Loud noises: Vacuum cleaners can be noisy, which may startle or scare your pets, causing stress or anxiety. Ensure to acclimate your pets to the vacuum's sound gradually.
- Power cords: Pets may chew on the vacuum's power cords, leading to electric shocks, burns or other injuries. Always unplug and store cords securely after use.
- Allergens: Vacuuming stirs up dust, dander and allergens, which can affect pets with respiratory issues or allergies. Regular grooming and air purifiers can help reduce this risk.
- Startle reflex: The sudden movement and appearance of a vacuum cleaner can trigger a startle reflex in pets, potentially causing them to flee or act defensively. Always vacuum when your pets are in a safe and calm environment.
- Tail and paw hazards: Pets may accidentally get their tails or paws caught in the vacuum cleaner's brush roll, and this can lead to injuries. Be mindful of your pet's location while vacuuming and consider using a pet-safe attachment.
How often should I vacuum to control pet hair?
Schulz offers, “One good rule of thumb is to count seven days (or one week), and then subtract a day for every shedding pet you own. So, if you’re someone with two golden retrievers, you should be vacuuming every five days, at least. However, you can adjust this schedule based on their shedding (especially during shedding season) and how much dirt is tracked inside your home. Some pet owners vacuum as often as once daily.”
Brown adds, “The frequency of vacuuming to control pet hair depends on several factors, including the number of pets you have, their breed, the size of your living space and the type of flooring you have. To stay on top of it, vacuum every day or every other day as needed.”
Are bagless vacuums better for pet owners?
According to Schulz, “The decision between bagged and bagless vacuums for pet owners should consider personal lifestyle, the amount of pet hair managed regularly and sensitivity to allergens. Bagless vacuums offer convenience and savings and are great for frequent cleaning tasks, while bagged vacuums appeal to those prioritizing ease of disposal and reduced allergen exposure.”
Related article: Best cordless stick vacuums, according to cleaning experts
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.