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If you are a pet owner, there is little question that you have experienced the aggravation that comes with shedding of long hairs at some point. Although we all have a soft spot in our hearts for our animal companions, there’s no denying that pet hair can be a pain.
Because it has the annoying propensity of going everywhere, it is essential to have a vacuum that is able to remove this kind of dirt from a variety of different surfaces like hardwood floors or carpeted floors.
Advantages include the ability to remove pet hair from below and around many kinds of furniture, including sofas, tables, and more. Good mobility and portability are required for this.
Pet Owners Listen Up
You should prioritise purchasing the most effective vacuum for pet hair as soon as possible since it is one of the most important household products you can have right now to make it simpler to clean your house.
These vacuums are designed to pick up even the tiniest stray hairs, fight off pet dander, and get rid of allergies, all of which will result in your floors and the air you breathe being cleaner than they were before.
A good number of these vacuums for pets are also included in our rundown of the finest vacuum cleaners. Because of this, when a vacuum cleaner is effective enough to remove hair from a rug as well as from a cat or dog, there isn’t much else it will have trouble with.
During our testing, we used a variety of attachments that were created for the express purpose of removing fur from pet beds and upholstery.
Following the evaluation of more than 100 different models, the following are our top picks for the best vacuums to use for removing hair from pets. These suggestions are not only based on the effectiveness of the products in removing pet hair from a variety of surfaces, but also on their designs and the prices at which they are sold.
Look at our lists of the best vacuums for high-pile carpet, the best vacuums for apartments, the best portable vacuums for pet hair, and the best robot vacuums for pet hair for further purchase suggestions.
In addition, we put the vacuums through their paces by putting them through an obstacle course. This allowed us to see how successfully the vacuums navigated around furniture, under tables, and into tight corners.
Finally, after thoroughly studying each device to assess its quality and checking out all of the numerous features it provided, our testers scored each vacuum separately based on its performance, convenience of use, and overall value in comparison to the other models. These observations helped us compile a comprehensive list of the finest vacuums for removing hair from pets.
How Can a Pet’s Diet and Grooming Influence Shedding and Vacuuming Needs?
Managing your pet’s shedding involves more than just frequent vacuuming. A pet’s diet and grooming routine play a pivotal role in controlling how much hair they shed and, consequently, how often you’ll need to wield the vacuum cleaner.
Nutritional Balance
A nutritious diet is fundamental to maintaining a healthy coat. Foods rich in essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, contribute to healthier skin and fur. This reduces excessive shedding, ensuring your pet retains more hair on their body and less on your furniture. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary adjustments to ensure the new additions fit your pet’s nutritional needs.
Regular Grooming
Consistent grooming is key to managing shedding. Brushing your pet’s coat regularly, especially during seasons when shedding increases, helps to remove loose hairs before they can decorate your floors. Depending on your pet’s breed, you may need different grooming tools, such as deshedding brushes or combs for specific fur types.
Vacuuming Tips
Invest in a vacuum cleaner designed for pet hair if shedding is significant. These specialized tools typically feature strong suction and attachments that tackle pet hair more efficiently, reducing the overall effort required to keep your space clean.
By focusing on high-quality nutrition and regular grooming, you can significantly cut down on pet hair around the house, leading to less time spent vacuuming.
Testing Standards and Criteria for Evaluating Vacuums for Pet Hair
When it comes to testing vacuums for pet hair, a comprehensive and standardized approach is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of the criteria and testing methods used:
ASTM Standards for Consistency
All vacuum tests adhere to ASTM International standards, ensuring a consistent evaluation process across different models. This includes assessing various performance aspects such as suction power, ease of use, and durability.
Flooring Performance Tests
- Versatility Across Surfaces:
- Vacuums are tested on multiple flooring types, including carpets, hardwood, tile, and linoleum.
- This helps determine their effectiveness on surfaces commonly found in homes with pets.
Pet Hair Pickup Efficiency
- Simulated Pet Hair Test:
- Faux “pet hair,” composed of fine rayon fibers, is uniformly applied to test carpets.
- Vacuums undergo a set number of passes, and the percentage of collected hair is measured.
Ease of Use Factors
- User-Friendly Design:
- Evaluations include the vacuum’s weight, battery life, and maneuverability.
- Testing also covers how easy it is to empty the dustbin and operate controls.
Consumer Feedback and Real-World Testing
- Consumer Trials:
- Select models undergo trials by consumers, providing feedback on real-life use, focusing on maneuverability, ease, and handling of pet fur.
These rigorous testing standards ensure that vacuums aren’t just effective in a lab setting but also reliable for tackling pet hair in everyday use.
When it comes to tackling pet hair, handheld vacuums can surprisingly hold their own against full-size models. While they may not match the sheer power of larger vacuums, many handheld devices are designed specifically with pet owners in mind, delivering impressive suction to lift stubborn fur off furniture and carpets.
Here are some advantages:
- Portability: With their lightweight build, handheld vacuums are perfect for quick touch-ups in hard-to-reach areas where pet hair tends to accumulate.
- Specialized Attachments: Many models feature attachments like rubber nozzles and mini motorized tools tailored to pull hair from upholstery and tight spaces.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Generally more affordable than full-size vacuums, handheld devices offer a budget-friendly solution for pet hair cleanup.
In conclusion, while a handheld vacuum might not completely replace your full-size model, it’s a convenient and effective tool for managing pet hair on a day-to-day basis.
Before You Go Shopping, Here’s What You Need to Know About Vacuums Designed for Pet Hair
Comparison Between Corded and Cordless Stick Vacuums
If you are in the market for a new vacuum, one of the most essential choices you will need to make is whether you want one that is corded or cordless. Cordless vacuums are wonderful since you don’t have to worry about stumbling on or getting tangled up in cables.
However, cordless vacuums often have limited battery life, which may not be adequate for cleaning big houses all at once. On the other hand, some individuals choose corded vacuum cleaners since they are often more effective and there is no danger of the battery running out in the middle of a cleaning session with one of these models.
However, corded devices may not provide the same level of mobility since you may be limited in outlet location and chord length while using them. Because our research team put both corded and cordless models through their paces, we’ve included both types on the list of the best vacuums for pet hair, which can be seen above.
Suction
The majority of bagged vacuums provide an adjustable range of suction strengths. Although lower settings are typically sufficient for rapid cleanups on hard surfaces, We suggests using higher settings which are sometimes branded as “max” for carpets since carpets need more agitation to remove dirt.
Hard surfaces may be cleaned adequately with lower settings. You will find further information on how to maintain the suction power of your vacuum cleaner in the part titled “Your Questions, Answered,” which can be found further down this page.
Filter
A filter that traps allergens at the microscopic level should be included in vacuums designed for pet hair like pet dander. Because of this, the appliance will only release clean air, which is particularly beneficial for those who suffer from allergies.
When it comes to owning a pet, it is critical to have a filtration system that is of a high quality. Most people who buy vacuums don’t realise there’s a filter in their vacuum, much alone how well it functions.
Attachments
The majority of the finest vacuums for removing pet hair (particularly ones that can be converted to a handheld type) come with additional attachments that are intended to remove fur from certain regions of the home.
The attachments that are most effective for removing pet hair are those that create some agitation on the area being cleaned. You should also look for vacuums that come with crevice tools for cleaning in tight spaces.
Mini-motorized attachments with stiff nylon bristles are perfect for furniture and upholstery, including dog beds and cat trees. Not only will it pick up hair, dirt, and debris that are ground into the surface, but it will also help capture dander, pollen, and other microscopic bacteria that might have made its way in from outside.
Vacuum Size
The capacity of a vacuum is critical to consider for a variety of reasons. If you live in a house that has more than one level, the vacuum cleaner you choose should be one that isn’t too cumbersome or heavy for you to transport up and down the stairs. In addition to this, you will want to check that you have enough storage space for your vacuum cleaner.
If you don’t have any free closets but also don’t want to leave your vacuum out in the open, a big upright model would not be as good of an alternative as a stick or robot model would be in this situation.
Tips for Controlling Pet Hair in Your Home
Dealing with pet hair can be a daily chore, but with the right strategies, you can keep your home clean and your pet comfortable. Here are some effective tips to manage pet hair:
- Brush Regularly
Start by incorporating regular brushing sessions into your routine. Choose a brush suited for your pet’s fur type. Alternatively, consider using grooming gloves with built-in bristles, allowing you to remove loose hair by simply petting your furry friend. - Optimize Their Diet
What your pet eats significantly affects their coat health. A high-quality, well-balanced diet can reduce excess shedding. Consult your veterinarian before making any dietary changes to ensure you’re meeting all their nutritional needs. - Vacuum Efficiently
Regular vacuuming is crucial, especially if you have a particularly fluffy pet. For convenience, set a robot vacuum to run daily, helping keep floors hair-free without constant effort. Ensure your vacuum is equipped to handle pet hair to avoid frustration. - Control the Environment
Indoor temperatures encourage year-round shedding. Keep your home at a consistent, comfortable temperature to minimize shedding fluctuations.
By implementing these strategies, you can enjoy a cleaner home and a happier pet. Maintaining their grooming and nutrition not only helps with pet hair but enhances their overall well-being.
How Do Robot Vacuums Handle Pet Hair and What Are Their Limitations?
Robot vacuums are a popular choice for pet owners looking to keep their homes free of fur without the hassle of manual vacuuming. These compact devices are designed to manage pet hair effectively, but they come with some limitations you should be aware of.
Efficient Pet Hair Management
Pet fur tends to accumulate under furniture and other tight spaces that are often missed during routine cleaning. Robot vacuums excel here due to their compact size, generally standing less than 3 inches tall, allowing them to reach these hidden areas. Many models come equipped with high-powered suction specifically designed to lift pet hair from both hard floors and carpets. An auto-increase suction feature, present in brands like iRobot and Eufy, dynamically boosts power when more intense cleaning is needed, ensuring that pet hair is effectively captured.
Navigation and Obstacle Management
Navigating through rooms filled with obstacles is another strong point for robot vacuums. They are equipped with large wheels for smooth transitions over carpets and door thresholds. Advanced models feature built-in sensors that help prevent them from falling down stairs or crashing into furniture, which ensures a thorough and safe cleaning session.
Limitations to Consider
Despite their strengths, robot vacuums aren’t without shortcomings. A common issue, especially in households with multiple pets, is the rapid filling of the dust bin. These containers are relatively small, meaning they require frequent emptying—sometimes even during a single cleaning cycle. This can be inconvenient for users who prefer longer intervals between maintenance tasks.
Overall, while robot vacuums provide significant convenience by largely autonomizing the cleaning process, their small dust bins can be a downside. For pet owners, it’s essential to weigh the convenience of automated cleaning against the necessity for regular bin emptying.
What should I do if the brush becomes clogged with hair from the pet?
Even though many vacuums claim to feature self-cleaning or anti-tangle brushrolls, it is almost difficult to avoid having hair (particularly longer strands) entangled in the brushrolls of a vacuum.
Some types are equipped with brushes that are detachable, making it simple to clean them since they can be removed from the floor head. In most cases, you will be able to remove tiny clumps from the brushroll by pulling them out with your hands; however, larger projects will need the use of scissors.
How can I keep a vacuum from losing its suction strength after I’ve used it for a while?
If a vacuum’s suction power decreases, this usually indicates that the airflow through the vacuum is being restricted. “a clogged filter means your vacuum cleaner won’t work as effectively as it should,” said Dyson, who added that it is essential for a vacuum cleaner to have one strong, powerful airflow running continuously through the machine.
To keep your vacuum performing well, Dyson recommends regularly emptying the dustbin, washing the filter, and checking the brush bar once a month to ensure that no debris is stuck.
Notable Mentions
Bissell Clean View Swivel Pet:
The BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet is a bagless upright vacuum cleaner that is accessible in terms of cost and performs an excellent job of removing pet hair from a variety of surfaces. On the other hand, in contrast to the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra, it is cumbersome and does not contain a HEPA filter.
SEBO Airbelt D4:
The SEBO Airbelt D4 is an excellent alternative to the Miele Complete C3 Alize PowerLine. It has larger dirtbags and filters that last for a longer period of time, which results in cheaper ongoing expenditures. On the other hand, in comparison to the Miele, it is both more cumbersome and heavier.
The Shark Cordless Vertex Pro Powered Lift-Away
If you want the convenience of a cordless mode but still need the power of an upright vacuum, a decent option to the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra is the Shark Cordless Vertex Pro Powered Lift-Away, which is a cordless upright vacuum cleaner from Shark.
However, when used as an upright, it has a battery life that is only moderately long, and it does not have any kind of floorhead height adjustment, which means that it may get entangled on carpet flooring types.
HEPA Vacuum Cleaner from Airsign:
Because of its comparable overall performance as well as its somewhat more compact size, the Airsign HEPA Vacuum is a viable alternative to the Miele Classic C1 PowerLine Pure Suction, which is a canister vacuum cleaner that is priced in the middle of its price range. However, its range is far less, and its construction isn’t nearly as sturdy.
Here are the top three vacuums for removing hair from pets
We have combed through the results of our comprehensive testing to come up with three of the most terrifying vacuum cleaners on the market, one each from the highest, the middle, and the lowest price ranges.
They are not the only high-performance fur-busters that we’ve tested, but looking at them will give you an idea of what else is available on the market.
Also, keep in mind that not all vacuums are made equal, and even a model that performs well in one category, such as removing pet hair, may not perform as well in other categories. Before you make a purchase, make sure you’ve read through all of our in-depth evaluations of barrel and upright vacuums so that you don’t wind up with a subpar product.
Pleasant and economical
Bagless Vacuum Cleaner by Westinghouse, Model WHVC02SB
Price: $180
Score for hair removal from pets: 100 percent
This beautiful bargain earns a perfect score of 100% for removing pet hair from carpets, and a very reasonable score of 70% for quickly cleaning carpets.
When one considers the cost, it really comes with a respectable variety of functions and extras. The most important of these is variable power, which enables the user to adjust the level of suction according to the surface that is being cleaned.
For example, the power can be set to a lower level when vacuuming delicate items such as curtains or upholstery, while it can be set to a higher level when cleaning hard floors. In addition to that, it features a HEPA filter that is washable, which is beneficial if you suffer from allergies or asthma.
Because the cleaning head is difficult to manoeuvre over carpet, as our experts discovered, you should keep this in mind if you are searching for an affordable vacuum for your carpeted and pet-friendly house that has carpeting.
Mid-range marvel
Electrolux Pure C9 PC91ANIMAT
Price: $599
Score for hair removal from pets: 100 percent
In our test to determine whether or not a vacuum is effective at eliminating pet hair, the Electrolux barrel vacuum we tested received a perfect score of 100% and won. It has a washable HEPA filter, as well as variable power, a wide selection of tools, and storage space aboard for all of those items. The simplicity of use was deemed to be extremely excellent by the expert who tested it.
However, it is not without flaws; emptying the trash is a dirty process, and it is possible to knock the bin out of place when picking up the vacuum cleaner, which would render all of your efforts useless.
An expensive performer
Sebo Airbelt K3 Premium
Price: $1325
Score for hair removal from pets: 100 percent
When it comes to the removal of pet hair, the Sebo unquestionably lives up to the high standards that are associated with a product of this price point.
It is equipped with a wide variety of equipment, including as a crevice tool, upholstery tool, power head, and dusting brush, which will assist you in removing all of the hair that your pet inevitably leaves behind. Our team of highly trained examiners was unable to identify any areas that needed improvement
