Cleaning up cat hair around the house can be a challenging task for pet owners. This is where vacuum cleaners specifically designed for picking up pet hair come in handy.
These vacuums are built to handle the extra fluff and help keep your home neat. A good vacuum for cat hair needs to be powerful, efficient, and easy to use.
Over the years, I’ve observed how a well-designed vacuum can make all the difference, especially in homes with furry friends.
When looking for the best vacuum for cat hair, there are a few important things to consider.
Suction power is crucial—strong suction helps pick up even the most stubborn hair from carpets and upholstery. You should also look at the filter system to ensure it can trap allergens and dander.
Bagless models might be more convenient to empty, but those with bags tend to contain the dust better. Accessibility to parts like brushes and belts for easy maintenance is also something to keep in mind.
Having a pet shouldn’t mean giving up a clean home, and the right vacuum can make maintaining that balance much easier.
I tested a range of options to find those that efficiently pick up cat hair without causing extra hassle.
Best Vacuum Cleaners for Cat Hair
I’ve spent a lot of time testing several vacuum cleaners to see which ones handle cat hair the best. Below is a list of the top choices that excelled in tackling those stubborn fur balls.
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum
This vacuum is a great choice for pet owners looking for a budget-friendly option to tackle cat hair effectively.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Includes pet-specific tools
- Large dust cup for extended cleaning
Cons
- Requires regular maintenance to prevent clogs
- Hose usage can be awkward
- Slightly noisy operation
The Eureka PowerSpeed surprised me with its efficiency in keeping my floors clean. Handling it was a breeze, thanks to its lightweight design and smooth wheels.
The pet turbo tool attachment tackled the cat hair on upholstery with no problem, leaving my furniture free of fur.
I also appreciated the large dust cup, meaning fewer trips to the trash can. Switching between carpets and hardwood floors is seamless due to its adjustable height settings. After a full house cleaning, the vacuum continued to perform with consistent suction.
On the flip side, cleaning the roller brush every couple of weeks is necessary, especially when dealing with long-haired pets. While using the hose, it felt a bit stiff, which took some getting used to.
Its noise level is noticeable, but given the price range, the performance trade-off was completely worth it.
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser
If you’re dealing with stubborn pet hair, this vacuum makes cleanup a breeze.
Pros
- Handy motorized brush tool handles embedded pet hair.
- Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to use.
- Easy-to-empty dirt bin saves time and effort.
Cons
- Battery life could be longer.
- Takes a while to fully charge.
- Limited power for larger messes
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser is a true asset when it comes to quick cleanups. Using it for my furniture and car seats, I found the motorized brush tool effective at picking up those pesky cat hairs. It really does simplify the task of cleaning.
What’s great is how easy it is to use. The cordless design means I can move around freely without worrying about power outlets.
It’s lightweight, making it comfortable to hold for longer cleaning sessions. Emptying the dirt bin is simple, so maintenance is almost hassle-free.
Though the vacuum’s power is impressive, I did notice that the battery life is pretty short. After about 17 minutes, it needs recharging, which can take several hours.
Despite this, if you’re looking for a reliable tool to tackle pet hair quickly, this vacuum delivers.
BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum
The BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum is a smart choice for anyone dealing with pet hair and looking for an easy-to-use vacuum.
Pros
- Great at picking up pet hair
- Swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver
- Comes with handy pet cleaning tools
Cons
- Corded design can limit movement
- A bit noisy during operation
- Dust tank needs regular emptying
Having tried the BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum, I noticed right away how effectively it removed cat hair from both the carpet and the hardwood floor. The Triple Action Brush Roll does an amazing job of not just lifting but also loosening embedded hair, making cleaning feel less like a chore.
Swivel steering is one of my favorite features, allowing me to glide around furniture with ease. It’s much more flexible than vacuums I’ve used in the past.
Although the cord can sometimes be a hassle, the extended reach it offers means I don’t need to switch outlets as often.
One thing I also appreciate is the specialized pet tools that make cleaning upholstery and stairs straightforward.
The vacuum is slightly noisy, but considering the powerful suction, it’s a small price to pay. The dirt tank is easy enough to empty, though it’s important to do this regularly to maintain efficiency.
BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Vacuum
This vacuum is a top choice for pet owners looking to tackle cat hair with its strong suction and innovative features.
Pros
- Excellent at removing pet hair without tangling.
- Detachable canister makes cleaning hard-to-reach areas simple.
- Built-in lights help reveal hidden dust and hair.
Cons
- A bit heavier than some other vacuums.
- Canister capacity might require frequent emptying.
- Tends to tip over when using attachments
I tried the BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Vacuum, and its suction power impressed me right from the start. It easily pulled cat hair off my carpets, thanks to the effective self-cleaning brush roll.
The detachable canister option was a game-changer for reaching all those tricky spots.
While using it, I found the vacuum’s LED headlights quite useful. They made it easier to see dust and hair that I normally miss. The swivel steering was smooth, providing good control as I navigated around furniture. This thoughtful design really enhances how well it cleans.
On the downside, I did notice that the vacuum feels a bit heavier than others I’ve used before. Additionally, while cleaning with the detachable tools, the vacuum had a tendency to tip over, which can be annoying.
Despite that, it’s hard to argue with the results. This vacuum simply gets the job done efficiently.
LEVOIT Stick Vac
For pet lovers dealing with cat hair, this LEVOIT vacuum offers a perfect solution with its effective tangle-resistant design.
Pros
- Great for picking up cat hair with minimal effort.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver around furniture.
- Comes with a pet tool perfect for tricky spots.
Cons
- Battery life shortens in Turbo mode.
- Dustbin capacity may require frequent emptying.
- May struggle with thicker carpets
After trying out the LEVOIT Stick Vac, I found it reliable for quick clean-ups. It’s lightweight, making it easy to carry around the house.
The anti-hair wrap feature is a game changer, especially if you’re tired of dealing with tangled messes after vacuuming.
I appreciated the flexibility it offers. It feels great to use it comfortably in small spaces, reaching under furniture without breaking a sweat. The LED lights help spot hidden dirt, which is a handy feature for thorough cleaning.
While the vacuum is excellent for hard floors, it might face challenges on thicker carpets. The battery life holds up well in standard use but can deplete quickly in higher power modes.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the LEVOIT Stick Vac is a solid pick for everyday use.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best vacuum cleaner for cat hair, consider suction power. It makes all the difference.
You want a vacuum that can easily lift hair from carpets and upholstery. Models with adjustable suction settings are a plus for delicate surfaces.
Filtration is another key factor. HEPA filters are excellent for trapping allergens, which can be a big relief for allergy sufferers. It ensures hair and dander don’t return to the air.
The brush type is important. Tangle-free brush rolls help avoid clogs and make it easier to clean long hair. Some vacuums also have rubberized brushes that help in grabbing cat hair more effectively.
Weight and maneuverability matter a lot. A lightweight model is easier to carry around, especially if you have stairs.
Swivel steering can help you navigate around furniture with ease.
Features to Consider
Noise Level: If you or your pet are sensitive to noise, look for a quieter vacuum.
Bag vs. Bagless: Bagless models save money on bags, but you’ll need to clean the dustbin regularly.
Attachments: Check for attachments like upholstery tools and crevice tools specially designed for pet hair.
In my testing, models with adjustable heights worked well on different surfaces like rugs and bare floors. I also found cord length to be crucial for reaching across rooms without unplugging.
These factors should help you make an informed choice for tackling cat hair efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve tested various vacuum cleaners to find the best ones for removing cat hair. Here are some features and comparisons based on my experience.
What features should I look for in a vacuum cleaner to effectively remove cat hair?
When choosing a vacuum for cat hair, look for strong suction and a motorized brush. A HEPA filter is helpful for dealing with allergens.
Consider models that don’t clog easily and have attachments for tight spaces.
How do specific vacuum cleaner brands compare in managing pet hair removal?
Brands like Dyson and Shark typically have strong suction and effective pet hair tools. Hoover and Bissell also offer good budget-friendly options.
In my tests, Dyson tends to excel in filtration and overall performance, while Shark is great for maneuverability.
What type of vacuum cleaner works best for cat hair on hardwood floors?
For hardwood floors, I recommend a vacuum with a soft brush roll to avoid scratching. Stick vacuums or canister vacuums work well here.
Shark and Dyson stick vacs performed well during my tests, easily clearing hair without damaging flooring.
Are there vacuum cleaners that can handle both cat hair and dander efficiently?
Yes, vacuums with HEPA filters handle both hair and dander efficiently.
Dyson and Miele offer models with sealed filtration systems, capturing allergens and fine particles.
In my experience, these vacuums keep the air cleaner, benefitting those with allergies.
What are the pros and cons of handheld versus upright vacuums for pet hair?
Handheld vacuums are lightweight and great for quick clean-ups or hard-to-reach areas. They’re easy to store but have limited capacity.
Upright vacuums offer more power and larger dust bins. During my use, I found uprights better for larger areas, while handhelds are perfect for small messes and corners.
How can I compare suction power and filtration efficacy in vacuums designed for pet hair?
To compare suction, check the wattage and airwatts for corded models. If you’re looking at cordless vacuums, check the volts instead. Look for vacuums with multi-layer filters to gauge filtration effectiveness.
In testing, I noted that higher suction scores and HEPA filters resulted in better cat hair removal and cleaner air.
