Best Vacuum For Homes With Pets – Top 5 Picks & Review

Does your furry friend leave a trail of fur and dander wherever they go? You love your pets, but the constant battle against pet hair and odors can feel overwhelming. Finding a vacuum cleaner that can truly tackle these challenges is tough. Many vacuums promise a lot, but fall short when it comes to deep-cleaning pet messes.

If you’re tired of pet hair clinging to your carpets and furniture, and worried about lingering smells, you’re in the right place. We know the frustration of spending money on a vacuum that just doesn’t cut it. This blog post is here to help you navigate the world of pet-friendly vacuums. We’ll break down what makes a vacuum great for homes with pets, so you can finally enjoy a cleaner, fresher home.

By the end of this guide, you’ll understand the key features to look for, and we’ll even highlight some top-rated models that pet owners swear by. Get ready to say goodbye to pet hair struggles and hello to a sparkling clean living space. Let’s dive into finding the perfect vacuum for your beloved companions!

Our Top 5 Vacuum For Homes With Pets Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Vacuum For Homes With Pets Detailed Reviews

1. Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering

Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering, Powerful Pet Hair Pick Up, Specialized Pet Tools, Large Capacity Dirt Tank, Easy Empty

Rating: 9.1/10

The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum is a powerful cleaning companion designed to tackle tough messes, especially those left behind by our furry friends. Its swivel steering makes it super easy to zip around furniture and tight corners. Plus, every purchase helps save pets through the Bissell Pet Foundation!

What We Like:

  • Swivel steering offers amazing maneuverability, letting you clean around obstacles with ease.
  • The Triple Action Brush Roll is a pet hair magnet, loosening, lifting, and removing even stubborn embedded fur.
  • Multi-surface cleaning with scatter-free technology means no more chasing pet messes across hard floors.
  • Edge-to-edge cleaning gets into corners and along walls to pick up every last bit of dirt and hair.
  • The large capacity dirt tank means you can clean more before needing to empty it.
  • Easy Empty feature makes disposing of dirt a simple and mess-free task.
  • It comes with specialized pet tools for extra cleaning power on pet-related messes.
  • You’re supporting a great cause with every purchase, as Bissell helps homeless pets.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it’s great for pet hair, some users might find the suction power could be a bit stronger for very deep-pile carpets.
  • The cord length, while decent, could be longer for very large rooms to reduce plug-and-unplug interruptions.

Overall, the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Vacuum is a fantastic choice for pet owners looking for an effective and easy-to-use vacuum cleaner. It makes tackling pet hair and everyday messes a breeze.

2. Shark

Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | Swivel Steering | HEPA Filter | Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Dusting Brush Included | For Carpets & Hard Floors | White/Silver | NV356E

Rating: 8.8/10

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is a versatile upright vacuum cleaner designed to tackle messes on all surfaces. Its powerful suction and advanced filtration system make it a great choice for homes with pets and allergy sufferers. The lightweight design and swivel steering ensure easy maneuverability, while the Lift-Away feature lets you clean above-floor areas with ease.

What We Like:

  • The Lift-Away functionality lets you take the pod off to clean stairs and furniture easily.
  • The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA filter traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, which is great for people with allergies.
  • Brushroll shutoff makes it easy to switch between carpets and hard floors.
  • It’s perfect for pet owners, picking up pet hair and dander from carpets and upholstery.
  • Swivel steering helps you get into tight spots and around furniture without a struggle.
  • The extra-large dust cup means you can clean for longer without stopping to empty it.
  • Included crevice tool and dusting brush allow for detailed cleaning of hard-to-reach areas and delicate surfaces.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While the dust cup is large, some users might find it needs emptying more often for very large homes or heavy messes.
  • The cord length, while decent, could be longer for some users needing to cover more ground without switching outlets.

This vacuum cleaner offers excellent cleaning power and convenience for everyday messes. It’s a solid option for keeping your home clean and fresh, especially if you have pets or allergies.

3. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor

Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor, Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Home Pets, NEU181A, Blue

Rating: 9.2/10

Tired of lugging around a heavy vacuum? The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner NEU181A in blue is here to make cleaning easier. This vacuum is designed for homes with pets and tackles both carpet and hard floors with its powerful motor. It’s a great option for keeping your home clean without the struggle.

What We Like:

  • It’s super lightweight at only 10 pounds, so you can easily carry it up stairs or around furniture.
  • The vacuum has strong suction that works well on all kinds of floors, from wood to thick carpets.
  • The big dust cup holds a lot of dirt, meaning you don’t have to stop and empty it as often.
  • You can adjust the brush roll to five different heights, which is perfect for cleaning different types of carpets and bare floors.
  • It comes with special tools for pet hair, like a Pet Turbo Brush, and they store right on the vacuum.

What Could Be Improved:

  • Some users found the cord to be a bit short, which can limit where you can clean without switching outlets.
  • While it’s great for everyday messes, it might not be the best choice for very deep cleaning on extremely dirty carpets.

Overall, the Eureka PowerSpeed offers impressive power and convenience for its weight and price. It’s a solid choice for most homes, especially those with pets.

4. Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum with PowerFins HairPro & Odor Neutralizer Technology

Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum with PowerFins HairPro & Odor Neutralizer Technology, Charcoal, 2.9 L Dust Cup

Rating: 8.6/10

Tired of pet hair taking over your home? The Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum is here to help. This vacuum tackles stubborn pet hair with its special PowerFins HairPro technology. It also fights bad smells with its Odor Neutralizer Technology. The large dust cup means you can clean more without stopping.

What We Like:

  • The PowerFins HairPro actively grabs and cleans all types of pet hair from carpets and floors.
  • The self-cleaning brushroll means you won’t have to untangle hair from it.
  • Odor Neutralizer Technology keeps your vacuum and home smelling fresh.
  • Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology traps 99.99% of dust and allergens.
  • The 3XL capacity dust cup lets you clean for longer without emptying.
  • The extendable hose gives you 12 feet of reach for cleaning stairs and furniture.
  • Swivel Steering makes it easy to move around furniture and in tight spots.
  • It effectively cleans both carpets and hard floors.
  • Comes with a 5-year limited warranty for peace of mind.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While effective, the upright design might be less convenient for some users compared to a stick vacuum.
  • The odor neutralizer cartridge will need to be replaced over time, adding a small ongoing cost.

This Shark vacuum is a powerful ally against pet messes and allergens. It offers excellent cleaning performance and features designed for pet owners.

5. Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum Cleaner

Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum Cleaner, with Quick Release Wand, Swivel Steering and Automatic Cord Rewind, 3197A (Color May Vary)

Rating: 9.4/10

Tired of pet hair taking over your home? The Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum Cleaner is here to help! This vacuum is designed to tackle pet messes with ease, making cleaning less of a chore. Plus, every purchase supports the Bissell Pet Foundation in their mission to save homeless pets. It’s a win-win for you and furry friends!

What We Like:

  • It’s great at picking up pet hair, even from carpets and hard floors.
  • The Scatter-Free Technology helps prevent messes while you clean.
  • The Triple Action Brush Roll works hard to lift dirt and hair.
  • The Quick Release Extension Wand is always ready for cleaning above the floor, like on furniture or stairs.
  • It has swivel steering, which makes it easy to maneuver around furniture.
  • The design is lightweight, so you don’t have to do heavy lifting.
  • The automatic cord rewind is a nice feature that keeps the cord tidy.
  • It’s a powerful cleaner that works well for everyday messes.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The color of the vacuum might vary, so you might not get the exact one you see in pictures.
  • While it’s great for pet hair, some very deep or old stains might still need extra attention.

Overall, this vacuum makes cleaning up after pets much simpler. It’s a powerful tool that helps keep your home clean and supports a great cause.

The Ultimate Buying Guide: A Purrfect Choice for Pet Parents

Having pets brings so much joy, but it also means dealing with fur, dander, and occasional messes. Finding the right vacuum cleaner can make a huge difference in keeping your home clean and fresh. This guide will help you choose the best vacuum for your furry friends.

1. Key Features to Look For

Powerful Suction

This is the most important feature. Strong suction pulls up pet hair, dirt, and dust from carpets and hard floors effectively. Look for vacuums with high wattage or strong motor power.

Specialized Pet Attachments

Many pet-friendly vacuums come with special tools. These can include:

  • Upholstery Tools: Great for cleaning pet hair off furniture and stairs.
  • Crevice Tools: Perfect for reaching tight spots where fur hides.
  • Motorized Brush Rolls: These spin to agitate carpet fibers and lift embedded hair. Some can be turned on or off for different floor types.
Excellent Filtration System

Pets shed dander, which can be a problem for people with allergies. A good filtration system traps these tiny particles. Look for vacuums with HEPA filters. HEPA stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air. These filters capture 99.97% of dust and allergens.

Durability and Build Quality

Pet hair can be tough on vacuums. Choose a vacuum made with sturdy materials that can withstand frequent use.

Ease of Maintenance

You’ll be emptying the dustbin often. A vacuum with an easy-to-empty bin or a large capacity will save you time and hassle. Some vacuums have washable filters, which is a great money-saver.

2. Important Materials

The materials used in a vacuum affect its performance and lifespan.

  • Brush Roll Bristles: Stiffer bristles are better at grabbing pet hair from carpets.
  • Hose and Wand Material: Flexible but strong materials prevent cracks and breaks.
  • Dustbin Material: Clear plastic dustbins let you see when they need emptying.

3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Improving Quality:
  • Bagless Design: Modern bagless vacuums are convenient and reduce ongoing costs.
  • Swivel Steering: Makes it easy to maneuver around furniture.
  • Cordless Options: Offer freedom of movement, especially for quick cleanups.
  • Quiet Operation: Some pets are scared of loud noises. Quieter vacuums are a plus.
Reducing Quality:
  • Weak Suction: If the vacuum doesn’t pull up hair well, it’s not effective.
  • Clogging: Vacuums that easily get clogged with pet hair become frustrating to use.
  • Poor Filtration: If allergens aren’t trapped, your air quality won’t improve.
  • Flimsy Construction: Parts that break easily mean you’ll need a replacement sooner.

4. User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you’ll use the vacuum most. Do you have mostly carpet, or a mix of hard floors and rugs? Do you need to clean stairs frequently?

  • For homes with lots of carpet: Look for vacuums with strong beater bars and adjustable height settings for different carpet piles.
  • For homes with hard floors: Vacuums with soft roller brushes are ideal to avoid scratching. Many pet vacuums work well on both.
  • For small apartments: A compact, lightweight, or cordless vacuum might be best.
  • For large homes: A powerful upright or canister vacuum with a long cord will cover more ground.

A good pet vacuum makes cleaning less of a chore and more of a quick task. It helps create a cleaner, healthier environment for both you and your pets.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the main Key Features to look for in a pet vacuum?

A: The main key features are powerful suction, specialized pet attachments, an excellent filtration system (like HEPA), durability, and ease of maintenance.

Q: Are bagless vacuums better for pet owners?

A: Bagless vacuums are often preferred because they are convenient and you don’t have to buy replacement bags. You just empty the dustbin.

Q: How important is a HEPA filter for a pet vacuum?

A: A HEPA filter is very important. It traps pet dander and allergens, which helps improve air quality and is especially good for people with allergies.

Q: What kind of attachments are most useful for pet hair?

A: Useful attachments include upholstery tools for furniture, crevice tools for tight spots, and motorized brush rolls to lift embedded hair from carpets.

Q: Can a vacuum cleaner really get rid of all pet odors?

A: While a good vacuum with strong suction and filtration can remove the sources of odors (like dander and hair), it won’t completely eliminate all smells. Regular cleaning and other odor control methods are still needed.

Q: How often should I empty the dustbin of my pet vacuum?

A: You should empty the dustbin whenever it looks full, usually after each use, especially if you have multiple pets or a large home. This keeps the suction strong.

Q: Are cordless vacuums good for homes with pets?

A: Yes, cordless vacuums are great for quick cleanups of pet messes and for reaching areas without being limited by a cord. However, check their battery life and suction power.

Q: What’s the difference between an upright and a canister vacuum for pet hair?

A: Upright vacuums are good for deep cleaning carpets and are often easier to store. Canister vacuums are usually lighter, more maneuverable, and can be better for cleaning stairs and different surfaces.

Q: How do I maintain my pet vacuum to keep it working well?

A: Regularly clean the brush roll to remove tangled hair, empty the dustbin, and clean or replace filters as recommended by the manufacturer. Check the hose for blockages.

Q: My pet is scared of the vacuum cleaner. Are there quieter options?

A: Yes, some vacuums are designed to be quieter. Look for models that specifically mention low noise levels. Introducing the vacuum slowly and using treats can also help your pet get used to it.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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