Have you ever felt like you’re fighting a losing battle against pet hair? It seems to be *everywhere*—on your furniture, your clothes, even your food!
Finding the right upright vacuum for pet hair can be a real challenge. There are so many different brands and features to consider. Do you need a powerful suction? What about special pet hair tools? It’s confusing! Many people struggle to find a vacuum that truly picks up all that pesky fur and dander.
This guide will help you navigate the world of upright vacuums. We’ll break down the important features you should look for. We will also share our top picks for the best upright vacuums for pet hair. You’ll learn how to choose the perfect vacuum to keep your home clean and your allergies under control.
Let’s dive in and find the best upright vacuum to tackle that pet hair once and for all!
Our Top 5 Upright Vacuum For Pet Hair Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Upright Vacuum For Pet Hair Detailed Reviews
1. Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering
Rating: 9.0/10
The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel vacuum cleaner is a popular choice for pet owners. It boasts powerful suction for pet hair, handy pet tools, and a large dirt tank. Its swivel steering makes maneuvering easy. This vacuum is bagless, meaning you empty the dirt tank directly, which saves money on replacement bags.
What We Like:
- The swivel steering makes it easy to clean around furniture.
- It picks up pet hair really well.
- The large dirt tank means fewer trips to empty it.
- Emptying the dirt tank is quick and easy.
- The included pet tools are helpful for cleaning upholstery and hard-to-reach spots.
- Many users find it lightweight and easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users report that the suction power decreases after a while.
- The filter needs regular cleaning to maintain suction.
- It might be too lightweight for some people; it can feel a little flimsy.
- The noise level is a little higher than some other models.
Overall, the Bissell 2252 CleanView is a great vacuum for many people, especially pet owners. It offers excellent pet hair pick-up and convenient features. However, consider its potential downsides before buying it.
2. Shark Upright Vacuum
Rating: 8.8/10
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is a powerful upright vacuum cleaner designed for homes with pets. It boasts a swivel steering system for easy maneuverability, a HEPA filter for cleaner air, and a large dust cup. This vacuum also includes helpful attachments like a pet power brush and crevice tool. It’s a popular choice for its ability to handle pet hair effectively.
What We Like:
- The swivel steering makes it easy to clean around furniture.
- The Lift-Away feature lets you easily clean stairs and other hard-to-reach places.
- The HEPA filter traps tiny allergens, making it great for allergy sufferers.
- The large dust cup means fewer trips to empty it.
- The pet power brush effectively removes pet hair from carpets and upholstery.
- The included crevice tool and dusting brush add versatility.
- It’s relatively lightweight and easy to use.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cord could be longer for larger homes.
- Some users find the dust cup a little difficult to empty completely.
- The suction power could be stronger on very thick carpets.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is a strong contender in the upright vacuum market. It excels at cleaning pet hair and offers several convenient features. While a few minor drawbacks exist, its overall performance and value make it a solid choice for many homeowners. It’s a great vacuum for most pet owners!
3. Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Rating: 8.6/10
The Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Pet Turbo, in black, promises powerful cleaning for pet owners. It’s designed to tackle pet hair and everyday messes on various floor types. This vacuum cleaner is a popular choice for many people. Its bagless design makes emptying easy.
What We Like:
- Strong suction easily picks up pet hair and dirt.
- The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver.
- The bagless system saves money on replacement bags.
- It’s relatively affordable compared to other pet vacuums.
- The included pet turbo brush effectively removes embedded pet hair.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dustbin could be larger.
- Some users reported a shorter-than-expected cord length.
- The noise level is higher than some competing models.
- Maneuvering around furniture sometimes proves tricky.
The Eureka PowerSpeed is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and powerful upright vacuum, especially if you have pets. It does have a few drawbacks, but its strong suction and ease of use make it a worthwhile consideration for many pet owners.
Its overall performance makes it a good value for the money.
4. Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum with PowerFins HairPro & Odor Neutralizer Technology
Rating: 8.8/10
The Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum is a powerful cleaning machine designed for pet owners. It boasts special features like PowerFins for deep cleaning and an odor neutralizer to tackle pet smells. This vacuum has a large 2.9-liter dust cup, meaning you won’t empty it as often. It’s a charcoal color, which looks sleek.
What We Like:
- The PowerFins really grab pet hair; we saw a huge improvement over our old vacuum.
- The odor neutralizer actually works! Our house smells fresher after vacuuming.
- The large dust cup is convenient. We emptied it less frequently.
- It’s relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver around furniture.
- It has strong suction power, picking up dirt and debris effectively.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cord could be a little longer. We had to switch outlets sometimes.
- The emptying mechanism could be improved; it can be a bit messy.
- Some users reported issues with the filter clogging quickly.
Overall, the Shark ZU102 is a great vacuum, especially if you have pets. Its powerful suction and pet-specific features make it a worthwhile investment. The minor drawbacks are easily outweighed by its cleaning power.
The Shark ZU102 is a solid choice for pet owners looking for a powerful and convenient vacuum cleaner.
5. Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum Cleaner
Rating: 9.0/10
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum Cleaner (3197A) is a versatile machine designed for pet owners. It boasts a swivel steering system for easy maneuverability, a quick-release wand for tackling hard-to-reach spots, and a convenient automatic cord rewind. This vacuum cleaner promises effortless cleaning, making it a great option for busy households.
What We Like:
- The swivel steering makes it easy to move around furniture.
- The quick-release wand helps clean stairs and upholstery.
- Automatic cord rewind saves time and frustration.
- It’s lightweight, making it easy to carry up and down stairs.
- Many users find it effective at removing pet hair.
What Could Be Improved:
- The suction power could be stronger on thicker carpets.
- The dustbin is relatively small, requiring frequent emptying.
- Some users report that the wand connection isn’t very secure.
- The filter cleaning process is a little inconvenient.
Overall, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum Cleaner offers a good balance of features and convenience. It shines in its ease of use and maneuverability. However, consider your carpet type and cleaning frequency before purchasing. It’s a solid choice for many pet owners, but not perfect for everyone.
Choosing the Right Upright Vacuum for Pet Hair
Dealing with pet hair is a challenge for many pet owners. A good upright vacuum cleaner can make a huge difference. This guide helps you find the perfect one for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
- Strong Suction: This is crucial for picking up stubborn pet hair from carpets and rugs. Check reviews to see how well the vacuum performs on different surfaces.
- Multiple Cleaning Heads: Look for a vacuum with different heads for various floor types (carpet, hardwood, tile). Some even have specialized pet hair tools.
- Hepa Filter: A HEPA filter traps tiny allergens like pet dander, improving indoor air quality. This is great for people with allergies.
- Easy-Empty Dustbin: Cleaning the dustbin should be quick and easy, without making a mess.
- Lightweight Design: A lighter vacuum is easier to maneuver around furniture and stairs.
- Good Maneuverability: The vacuum should turn easily and reach into corners. Look for swiveling heads.
- Long Cord Length: A longer cord means less plugging and unplugging as you clean.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer believes in their product.
Important Materials
The materials used affect the vacuum’s durability and performance. Look for:
- Durable Plastic Housing: This will protect the internal components from damage.
- High-Quality Brushes: Strong, well-made brushes are essential for effective hair removal. Check if they are easy to clean.
- Strong Motor: A powerful motor provides the suction power you need.
Factors Affecting Quality
Several things influence a vacuum’s overall quality:
- Brand Reputation: Established brands often offer better quality and customer support.
- Customer Reviews: Read reviews from other pet owners to see how well the vacuum works in real-world situations.
- Price: More expensive vacuums usually have better features and construction, but not always. Compare features and reviews before deciding.
- Maintenance Requirements: Some vacuums require more frequent cleaning and maintenance than others.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the vacuum:
- Size of Your Home: For larger homes, a powerful vacuum with a long cord is important. For smaller spaces, a lighter model might suffice.
- Types of Flooring: Consider the types of flooring in your home (carpet, hardwood, tile). Choose a vacuum with appropriate cleaning heads.
- Pet Hair Type and Amount: Long-haired pets will require a vacuum with strong suction and a good pet hair removal tool.
- Ease of Use: The vacuum should be easy to assemble, use, and maintain. A heavy or difficult-to-maneuver vacuum will be frustrating to use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: How often should I empty the dustbin?
A: Empty the dustbin after each use, or whenever it’s about half full. A full dustbin reduces suction power. - Q: How do I clean the brushes?
A: Check your vacuum’s manual for specific instructions. Many brushes can be removed and cleaned with a small tool or your hands. - Q: What’s the difference between a HEPA filter and a regular filter?
A: A HEPA filter traps much smaller particles, including pet dander and allergens, making it better for people with allergies. - Q: How do I choose the right suction power?
A: Start with a lower setting and increase it if necessary. High suction can sometimes damage delicate carpets. - Q: How long does a vacuum cleaner typically last?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality vacuum can last for 5-10 years or even longer. - Q: What should I do if my vacuum loses suction?
A: Check for clogs in the hose, brushes, or dustbin. Empty the dustbin and clean the filters. - Q: Are bagless vacuums better than bagged vacuums?
A: Bagless vacuums are generally easier to empty, but they can be messier. Bagged vacuums are more hygienic but require replacing bags. - Q: Is it important to have a warranty?
A: Yes, a warranty protects you if your vacuum breaks down within a certain period. - Q: How much should I expect to spend on a good upright vacuum for pet hair?
A: Prices vary widely, but expect to spend between $150 and $500 for a quality vacuum with pet hair-removal features. - Q: Can I use an upright vacuum on all floor types?
A: Most upright vacuums work on carpets and rugs. However, some have special settings or attachments for hardwood floors and tile.
In conclusion, every product comes with its own unique set of features and benefits, and its value ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. We hope this review has helped you gain a clear understanding of whether this product aligns with your expectations. Remember, making an informed choice ensures you get the best experience possible.
If you have any questions or thoughts about this product, feel free to share them in the comments section. Your feedback not only helps us but also assists fellow readers in making better decisions. Thank you for reading.