For pet owners, dealing with pet hair can be a constant challenge. Pets shed their fur regularly, which can accumulate on carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces in the home. Finding the right vacuum cleaner to handle pet hair effectively is crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy living environment. This article explores what makes a vacuum cleaner suitable for pet hair, compares various options, and helps you choose the best vacuum cleaner for your needs.
Features to Look for in a Vacuum Cleaner for Pet Hair
Powerful Suction
When it comes to handling pet hair, powerful suction is essential. Pet hair can be deeply embedded in carpets and upholstery, and a vacuum with strong suction will ensure that it is effectively removed. Look for vacuums with high-wattage motors and adjustable suction settings to handle different types of surfaces and levels of pet hair.
Specialized Pet Hair Tools
Many vacuums come with specialized tools designed for pet hair removal. These tools include motorized brush heads, turbo brushes, and pet hair attachments. Motorized brush heads are particularly effective at lifting and removing pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Turbo brushes, on the other hand, help to agitate and dislodge hair from surfaces. Make sure the vacuum you choose includes these attachments or is compatible with them.
HEPA Filters
Pet hair and dander can contribute to indoor allergies. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are designed to trap small particles, including pet dander, dust, and allergens. A vacuum with a HEPA filter will help improve indoor air quality by capturing these particles and preventing them from being released back into the air. This feature is particularly important for households with allergy sufferers.
Bagless vs. Bagged Vacuums
Vacuum cleaners come in both bagless and bagged varieties. Bagless vacuums have a dust bin that can be emptied and cleaned, which may be more convenient for frequent use. However, they can sometimes release dust and allergens when emptied. Bagged vacuums, on the other hand, contain the dust and allergens in a sealed bag, which can be better for maintaining cleanliness. Consider which type of vacuum suits your preferences and needs.
Ease of Use and Maneuverability
A vacuum cleaner should be easy to use and maneuver, especially if you need to clean various areas of your home. Look for features such as swivel steering, lightweight design, and adjustable handles to make cleaning more comfortable. A vacuum with a flexible hose and extended reach will help you clean under furniture and other hard-to-reach areas effectively.
Types of Vacuum Cleaners for Pet Hair
Upright Vacuums
Upright vacuums are popular for their powerful suction and large dust capacity. They are ideal for deep-cleaning carpets and can handle significant amounts of pet hair. Many upright models come with specialized pet hair tools and HEPA filters. They are generally easy to maneuver on carpets but can be bulky and less convenient for cleaning stairs or tight spaces.
Canister Vacuums
Canister vacuums feature a separate canister and a long hose, making them versatile and suitable for various cleaning tasks. They are effective for both carpets and hard floors and are easier to maneuver around furniture. Canister vacuums often come with specialized pet hair attachments and HEPA filters, making them a good choice for homes with pets. They are generally more convenient for cleaning stairs and upholstery but may have smaller dust capacity compared to upright models.
Robotic Vacuums
Robotic vacuums are automated and can clean your floors with minimal effort on your part. They are convenient for regular maintenance and can handle pet hair on both carpets and hard floors. Many robotic vacuums come with features like scheduled cleaning, powerful suction, and brushes designed to pick up pet hair. However, they may not be as effective for deep cleaning as upright or canister vacuums and may need frequent emptying of their dust bins.
Handheld Vacuums
Handheld vacuums are compact and designed for quick clean-ups. They are particularly useful for cleaning pet hair from upholstery, stairs, and car interiors. Handheld vacuums often come with specialized pet hair attachments and can be a convenient supplement to a larger vacuum cleaner. However, they may have limited suction power and dust capacity compared to other types of vacuums.
see also: How to Use a Shop Vac for Water
Top Vacuum Cleaners for Pet Hair
Dyson Ball Animal 2
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is renowned for its powerful suction and effectiveness at picking up pet hair. It features a self-adjusting cleaner head that works on both carpets and hard floors. The vacuum comes with a tangle-free turbine tool, designed specifically for pet hair removal, and a HEPA filter to trap allergens. Its ball technology provides excellent maneuverability, making it easier to clean around furniture and obstacles.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is a versatile vacuum with strong suction power and a lift-away canister for portable cleaning. It includes a pet power brush and a HEPA filter, making it effective at removing pet hair and trapping allergens. The vacuum’s swivel steering and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver, and its large dust capacity reduces the need for frequent emptying.
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is designed with pet owners in mind. It features a powerful suction system, a tangle-free brush roll, and specialized pet hair tools. The vacuum also includes a SmartSeal Allergen System to capture allergens and improve air quality. Its lightweight design and swivel steering make it easy to use and maneuver around the home.
iRobot Roomba i7+
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is a high-end robotic vacuum with advanced features for handling pet hair. It includes a powerful suction system, dual rubber brushes designed to pick up pet hair, and a high-efficiency filter. The Roomba i7+ can be scheduled to clean automatically and returns to its charging base when needed. It also has a self-emptying dust bin, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
Conclusion
Choosing the best vacuum cleaner for pet hair involves considering several factors, including suction power, specialized pet hair tools, filter quality, and ease of use. Each type of vacuum cleaner offers unique advantages, from the powerful suction of upright models to the convenience of robotic vacuums. The Dyson Ball Animal 2, Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional, Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus, and iRobot Roomba i7+ are excellent options for effectively managing pet hair in your home. By selecting a vacuum cleaner that meets your specific needs and preferences, you can keep your home clean and free from pet hair, ensuring a more comfortable and healthy living environment for you and your pets.