The Top Pet Hair Vacuums We’ve Put to the Test

Best Canister Option

The Pop-N-Go Bagged Canister Vacuum features a user-friendly design perfect for tackling pet hair, with various cleaning tools neatly stored inside. It includes a bare floor brush, dusting brush, long crevice tool, and a motorized pet tool that’s particularly useful for lifting stubborn pet hairs from carpets and furniture, all making it easy to access and use for tight spots and deeper cleaning.

In our tests, we found the unit to be fairly lightweight, which made it easy to handle while cleaning stairs. Additionally, this canister vacuum was compact enough to leave upright on a stair step or landing. The Pop-N-Go is versatile, performing well on various floor types like carpet, laminate, and hardwood. However, we observed that it excelled on carpet, efficiently picking up pet hair in a single pass, even at low suction. On hard surfaces, we had to use the highest suction to prevent the vacuum from pushing the hair around.

On the positive side, the vacuum remained relatively quiet even at its highest suction setting. To maintain clean air, it uses a fully sealed HEPA filtration system, which captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. While it's simple to remove the vacuum bag, it does require occasional replacement.

Weight: 24 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.55 gallons | Cord Length: 26 feet | Run Time: N/A | Attachments: 4

Best Budget

Although it lacks extravagant features, the Kenmore Compact Bagless Canister Vacuum is a dependable, budget-friendly choice, especially for those dealing with pet hair. Weighing under 10 pounds, it’s simple to move around, with its wheeled base and low profile allowing easy transport. The hose swivels smoothly, providing extra maneuverability, while the two included attachments — a 2-in-1 dusting and crevice tool and a bare floor nozzle — help you clean those tight, tricky spaces.

During our testing, the canister vacuum was able to pick up most debris in a single pass, performing effectively on both carpets and hard floors. The crevice tool proved helpful in removing smaller bits of dirt. The only downside was that it was a bit tricky to remove hair from the brush, as the brush itself can’t be detached from the vacuum head.

On the other hand, maintenance tasks such as emptying the dustbin were straightforward. We appreciated not having to purchase additional bags, as the debris could be emptied with just the push of a button. The dustbin itself was also easy to detach and rinse out when necessary.

Weight: 9.5 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.6 pounds | Cord Length: 16 feet | Run Time: N/A | Attachments: 2

Best Choice for Splurge

The Dyson Gen5detect cordless vacuum is undeniably one of the top choices for pet hair removal, making it a worthy splurge if your budget allows. If you’ve been hesitant about cordless vacuums, the battery life might surprise you—it lasted 51 minutes and 28 seconds on low power in our test. With Dyson’s most advanced motor, it easily picked up most debris in one pass, whether on grout, hardwood, or carpet floors.

Thanks to its excellent maneuverability, the vacuum made it easy to reach debris in tight corners without the need for extra attachments. Still, we found the attachments, particularly the Digital Motorbar cleaner head and hair screw tool, to be highly effective for stubborn pet hair. However, there was some hair tangling in the Fluffy Optic cleaner head, but overall, the unit was easy to empty and maintain.

This vacuum is designed to provide a visual indication of how thoroughly you’re cleaning. The light in the Fluffy Optic cleaner head illuminates invisible dust, helping you clean with precision. Additionally, the advanced sealed HEPA filtration system captures 99.99% of particles as small as 0.1 microns, with real-time updates on the number of particles collected on the screen.

Weight: 7.72 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.2 gallon | Cord Length: N/A | Run Time: 51 minutes on the lowest power setting | Attachments: 5

Ideal for Hard Flooring

For a thorough clean that ensures your hard floors stay safe, the Levoit VortexIQ 40 Cordless Stick Vacuum excels. During testing, it performed well even around the edges of hardwood floors, swiftly picking up debris instead of just pushing it. The vacuum automatically adjusts suction to provide the perfect power. Auto mode was sufficient for most of our tests, as higher settings made it difficult to move across thick carpets. Despite its effectiveness, it ran quietly on auto mode, allowing us to have conversations without disruption.

Thanks to its impressive maneuverability, we were able to clean most edges and corners without needing the attachments, which include a telescopic crevice tool and a 2-in-1 dusting brush. The only challenge we encountered was the square-shaped vacuum head occasionally getting caught on furniture legs. While a tapered design would have been ideal, this minor issue didn’t detract from the vacuum's ease of movement on most surfaces.

Weight: 7.1 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.16 gallons | Cord Length: None | Run Time: 39 minutes on low battery | Attachments: 2

Best Upright

With outstanding suction power and anti-tangling features, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra effortlessly picks up pet hair thanks to its specialized cleaner head. We were particularly impressed by how thoroughly it removed debris in just a few sweeps, without leaving any hair tangled on the roller. This was achieved through the vacuum’s detangling hair removal vanes, which actively clear wrapped hair as it vacuums.

The vacuum is equipped with four versatile attachments: a tangle-free turbine tool, a stair tool, a combination tool, and a pet grooming tool. The pet grooming tool is especially handy for removing loose hair from pets, but keep in mind that some pets may not be fond of being groomed with a noisy vacuum attached. While not excessively loud, the vacuum produces a sound level comparable to that of a regular vacuum cleaner.

Regarding maneuverability, the ball design of the vacuum does improve steering, but there were a few challenges in this area. The instant-release wand and long-reach hose proved somewhat stiff to operate. Additionally, the vacuum's weight is on the heavier side, tipping the scales at 17 pounds, which is typical for upright vacuums.

Key Specifications: Weight: 17.3 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.45 gallons | Cord Length: 35 feet | Run Time: N/A | Attachments: 4

Top Self-Emptying Design

The Shark Wandvac stands out for its self-emptying feature, where it automatically empties itself onto the included charging base. Later, you can easily dispose of whatever gets collected into the dustbin. If you're concerned about dust or debris being released into the air, the charging base is equipped with a HEPA-sealed system that ensures irritants remain trapped inside.

Along with the self-emptying charging base, this vacuum includes a crevice tool and a pet multi-tool to help you clean hard-to-reach areas. Perfect for pet owners, the multi-tool features a stiff bristle brush to tackle stubborn debris, as well as an upholstery tool designed to remove hair from furniture. While the vacuum performed excellently in debris removal during the second test, it had difficulty picking up hair in our first experiment.

We also found that the vacuum is a bit noisy when in use. Its noise level is similar to that of a hair dryer, which can make it difficult to carry on conversations while using it. Despite this, the vacuum delivered consistent performance after the initial try, cleaning all debris in just a few passes. Its slim design and swivel head also made it easy to maneuver.

Weight: 13.85 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.03 gallons | Cord Length: N/A | Run Time: 14 minutes | Attachments: 2

Top Robot

The Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum offers the perfect blend of efficiency and ease. Its full-size brush bar covers more ground while the extending side duct redirects suction for better performance. The broad brush bar combines three cleaning methods: soft nylon, stiff bristles, and anti-static carbon fiber filaments, ensuring a deep and thorough clean.

During testing, this vacuum picked up cat hair from areas we assumed were clean, with strong suction on both vinyl and carpet floors. The lifetime HEPA filter captures particles as tiny as 0.1 microns, trapping pet dander and allergens. The setup is user-friendly; simply download Dyson’s app and program the vacuum to clean your designated areas with ease.

Equipped with a 360-degree panoramic camera to map its cleaning path, the vacuum lives up to its '360' name. However, without object avoidance, it sometimes gets caught on pet toys. The noise level is helpful, though somewhat loud, indicating when and where the vacuum is working, making it easier to troubleshoot.

Weight: 9.9 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.15 gallons | Cord Length: N/A | Run Time: 65 minutes | Attachments: N/A

Top Attachment

The Kenmore Elite UltraPlush Bagged Canister Vacuum is equipped with several useful attachments to help clean tight spaces and corners, including horsehair dusting and floor brushes, a crevice tool, and the standout feature — the motorized Pet PowerMate brush. During testing, this attachment made cleaning hair from couches and stairs effortless and kept clumps from tangling in the brush.

We were impressed with how easy it was to store the attachments within the vacuum itself for quick access. While not technically an attachment, the extendable telescopic wand, complete with an LED headlight for better visibility of debris, was a welcome feature. Additionally, light sensors indicate when the HEPA bag needs replacing.

The vacuum features a dual-motor system that delivers both brush rotation and strong suction power. While it did a fantastic job cleaning, we wish it had automatic pile adjustment, as the lever to adjust the pile height was a bit tricky to operate. That said, the vacuum’s retractable cord made it very maneuverable, so this is a minor complaint.

Weight: 22 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 22 pounds | Cord Length: 26 feet | Run Time: N/A | Attachments: 4

Top Handheld

The Black+Decker Furbuster is an updated version of the classic Dustbuster, specifically made for pet owners. It’s lightweight, cordless, and ideal for tackling fur in difficult-to-reach areas. The portable handheld vacuum also features an anti-tangle motorized pet brush with rubber bristles to lift embedded pet hair. An extendable crevice tool adds to its versatility, making it perfect for cleaning places like your car.

Setting it up is straightforward with its single snap-on attachment. During testing, it efficiently collected pet hair from carpets, hardwood floors, and furniture. Cleaning the vacuum is a breeze with a simple button press to empty the debris, and the pre-filter can be removed and washed. While the dustbin is on the smaller side, it’s not a major issue given the vacuum’s affordable price, but frequent emptying may be necessary for deep cleaning or if you have pets that shed a lot.

Weight: 4.3 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.18 gallons | Cord Length: N/A | Run Time: 20 minutes | Attachments: 1

Ideal for Carpet

The Kenmore Elite Pet-Friendly Bagged Upright Vacuum is a powerful tool for tackling pet hair on carpets. Its motor features three motors that work together to deliver 20 percent more suction power than typical vacuums. Despite its strength, it operates no louder than an average vacuum, and it avoids any annoying high-pitched noises.

In our tests, this vacuum performed excellently on both medium- and high-pile carpets, removing all pet hair in less than a minute and leaving minimal hair behind on the brush roll. However, we did encounter some hair wrapping on the brush when using the vacuum on hard floors. Still, we believe it’s an excellent choice if your main focus is cleaning carpet.

The Pet Handimate attachment stands out for its efficiency in removing pet hair and dander, utilizing an air-powered turbine that quickly spins the brush roll. For those tricky, hard-to-reach areas, the combination tool and extension wand come in handy. These attachments were especially appreciated, saving us from carrying the 26-pound vacuum around the entire area.

Weight: 26 pounds | Dustbin Capacity: 0.40 gallons | Cord Length: 35 feet | Run Time: N/A | Attachments: 3

Our Testing Process

We tested a variety of top-rated pet hair vacuums to determine their effectiveness at removing real pet hair. For each model, we assembled the unit, noting how easy the setup process was. To test their performance, we used each vacuum on different floor types, including both hard flooring and carpets, to assess how well they picked up pet hair.

We also vacuumed areas where pet hair commonly gathers, like furniture and staircases. During this process, we paid close attention to the suction power and the number of passes required to remove debris. Additionally, we evaluated the noise level of the vacuum, noting whether it was loud enough to interrupt a conversation, a TV show, or be heard from another room.

For maneuverability testing, we examined how easily each vacuum could navigate around edges and corners. We also assessed portability, evaluating the weight, ease of accessing attachments, and whether the cord design impacted the cleaning process. Afterward, we checked how easy it was to empty the dustbin and clean hair from the brush roll. Finally, we evaluated the overall value of each vacuum, considering whether its price was justified by its features and effectiveness.

Expert Guide to Shopping for Pet Hair Vacuums

Types of Vacuums

Pet hair vacuums come in various designs, giving you multiple options to consider when looking for the perfect fit for your cleaning needs. Below are some of the most common vacuum types to keep in mind while shopping.

• Upright: When thinking of traditional vacuum cleaners, upright models are likely what comes to mind. These vacuums stand upright and typically feature a connected handle, dustbin, and power head. With their powerful suction and wide cleaning heads, they are great for tackling pet hair. However, they can be heavy and a bit harder to maneuver. Despite these challenges, upright vacuums, especially those with strong suction and HEPA filters, are often preferred by Ciechorska for cleaning pet hair. "Upright vacuums are generally more powerful and have larger dustbin capacities, which makes them ideal for dealing with large amounts of pet hair," she says.
• Canister: Canister vacuums consist of a main body — or canister — that connects to a power head with a flexible hose. They tend to be lighter and come with wheels for easy portability, making them ideal for maneuvering on stairs. Just be cautious, as the canister may bump into furniture if it’s not kept close by while vacuuming.
• Handheld: These vacuums are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for spot cleaning. However, they have smaller dustbins and generally lack a full-size brush roll for deep cleaning.
• Cordless: As the name implies, cordless vacuums don’t have cords. According to Ciechorska, they are portable and convenient for quick cleaning — plus, they can often double as handheld vacuums. However, they usually come with small dustbins and require charging.
• Bagged: Bagged vacuum cleaners collect dust and debris into a disposable bag. These bags prevent dust and pet dander from being released back into the air, but they need to be thrown out once full. Ciechorska points out that one downside is the ongoing cost of replacement bags.
• Robot: Robot vacuums clean surfaces autonomously using smart navigation. You can schedule cleaning times and direct them to clean under furniture. However, they tend to be on the pricier side, and you’ll likely need to empty them frequently if you have a heavy shedder.

Maneuverability

As a pet owner, choosing a vacuum that’s easy to maneuver is essential, as pet hair and dander tend to accumulate in everything from wide-open spaces to tight corners. To assess how easy a vacuum is to steer, focus on its design. "I find that vacuums with swivel steering and lightweight builds are much easier to use," Ciechorska shares. "These features help you clean those hard-to-reach spots without needing to move too much furniture, which is a huge benefit."

Attachments

While having a powerful motor and an efficient brush roll are key to tackling pet hair, vacuum attachments are also worth considering. The right attachments allow you to clean non-floor surfaces with ease. Common attachments include a crevice tool for corners, an upholstery tool for cleaning furniture, and a dust brush for delicate areas.

One attachment that pet owners should consider is a motorized brush tool, which is equipped with specialized bristles designed for picking up pet hair. Ciechorska recommends it, saying it's excellent "for deep cleaning carpets and pulling out stubborn pet hair."

Filter Type

Many pet hair vacuums come with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter integrated into their filtration system. HEPA filters trap dust, pet dander, and other allergens to keep them from being released back into the air. Some vacuums with HEPA filtration use disposable bags, while others have filters that require occasional replacement. Certain models also include pre-filters that are removable and washable.

HEPA filters are perfect for pet hair vacuums as they trap microscopic particles like pet dander, which can alleviate allergy symptoms. "There are also other great filters available, such as charcoal filters that help eliminate odors," says Ciechorska. Regardless of the type of filtration system, she advises that you "clean or replace your filters regularly to keep your vacuum performing at its best and ensure good air quality."

More to Consider

Dyson Outsize+ Cordless Vacuum: With powerful suction, various attachments, and a laser feature for enhanced visibility of debris, this vacuum is highly effective and a great investment for pet owners. However, it may be challenging to maneuver due to its heavy head.

Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog PowerLin: A robust vacuum with an array of attachments and excellent build quality, the Miele Complete C3 is a solid option. That said, we found its setup and settings to be more complex than necessary.

Questions You Might Ask 

What makes vacuums for pet hair different from standard vacuums?

While many regular vacuums can manage pet hair and dander, vacuums designed specifically for pet hair come with features tailored to address it more effectively. "Pet hair vacuums typically offer stronger suction and specialized attachments to handle hair. Additionally, they tend to have enhanced filtration systems to capture pet dander," explains Ciechorska.

How frequently should pet owners vacuum?

The frequency at which a pet owner should vacuum largely depends on factors such as the number of pets, the amount of shedding, and the presence of additional debris like kibble or litter. According to Ciechorska, pet owners should aim to vacuum at least twice a week. While it’s important to clean high-traffic areas, she also advises paying attention to often-overlooked spots like under furniture and along baseboards.

How can you stop pet hair from clogging up the vacuum?

To prevent pet hair from tangling in your vacuum cleaner, do a bit of prep work beforehand. Ciechorska recommends using a pet hair remover brush or roller on areas with heavy shedding. It’s also important to check the brush roll for accumulated hair regularly to avoid clogs. In addition to regular maintenance, consider vacuum models with anti-tangle brushes designed to remove hair as you clean.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Stacey Nguyen, a contributing writer for Mytour, who has years of experience in writing about home and lifestyle topics. In selecting the best vacuums for pet hair, we tested over a dozen models, considering factors such as noise level, maneuverability, portability, effectiveness, and ease of maintenance. For expert advice on choosing and maintaining pet hair vacuums, Stacey consulted with Diana Ciechorska, general manager of Park Slope Cleaning.