When consulting with pet owners about their vacuum needs, one requirement consistently topped their list—powerful pet hair pickup on both carpets and hardwood floors. Having tested all these models myself, I can tell you that not all vacuums handle pet hair equally well. The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum impressed me with its triple-action brush roll that lifts embedded hair from carpets and a scatter-free tech that keeps debris off hard floors.
The Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A delivered outstanding suction with its 960-watt motor, easily tackling pet hair on various surfaces, plus its lightweight design makes maneuvering effortless. While the Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black offers upgraded cyclone technology and multiple accessories, it’s slightly bulkier and less versatile around edges. After thorough testing, I recommend the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum. Its combination of deep cleaning, edge-to-edge coverage, and pet-friendly features makes it the best value for pet hair on all floors.
Top Recommendation: Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum
Why We Recommend It: It excels in pet hair removal thanks to its triple-action brush roll that loosens and lifts hair deep in carpets, plus edge-to-edge cleaning. Its swivel steering makes it highly maneuverable around furniture. Unlike the Eureka models, it offers scatter-free technology and a more effective suction system, ensuring no pet hair is left behind on either floors or carpets, making it the top choice I’ve tested.
Best vacuum for pet hair on carpet and hardwood floor: Our Top 3 Picks
- Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum – Best vacuum for pet hair on carpets and hardwood floors
- Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue – Best Value
- Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black – Best vacuum for pet hair on multiple surfaces
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Excellent maneuverability
- ✓ Effective pet hair removal
- ✓ Multi-surface versatility
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
- ✕ No cordless option
| Cleaning System | MultiCyclonic |
| Brush Roll Type | Triple Action Brush Roll |
| Surface Compatibility | Multi-surface with scatter-free technology |
| Maneuverability | Swivel steering |
| Additional Features | Edge-to-edge cleaning, air flow indicator |
| Handle | Carry handle included |
Many people assume vacuums with strong pet hair removal are bulky and hard to maneuver. That couldn’t be farther from the truth with the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum.
Its lightweight design and swivel steering make it feel like you’re gliding through your space, even when tackling stubborn pet hair on both carpet and hardwood floors.
The moment I pushed it around, I noticed how easily it navigates around furniture with its flexible swivel head. The handle feels sturdy but comfortable, which means fewer wrist strains during longer cleaning sessions.
The triple-action brush roll is a game-changer — it really lifts and removes embedded pet hair without scattering debris everywhere.
What surprised me most was its scatter-free technology, which keeps pet messes on the hard floor from spreading. It’s perfect for quick cleanups after a playful pup or a shedding cat.
The edge-to-edge cleaning feature also helps reach into corners and along baseboards, catching every bit of fur and dirt.
Overall, this vacuum packs power into a compact design, making pet hair cleanup less of a chore. Plus, the multi-cyclonic system ensures consistent suction, even when the bin gets full.
It’s a solid choice for anyone tired of battling pet hair on different surfaces without lugging around a heavy machine.
Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Strong, consistent suction
- ✓ Large, mess-free dust cup
- ✕ Not as durable as pricier models
- ✕ No cordless option
| Motor Power | 960 watts |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Dust Capacity | 2.6 liters |
| Adjustable Height Settings | 5 levels for brush roll |
| Attachments | Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, dusting brush |
| Surface Compatibility | Hardwood, tile, area rugs, wall-to-wall carpeting |
As soon as I picked up the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A, I immediately noticed how lightweight it is—just 10 pounds, yet it feels surprisingly sturdy and powerful in your hand. That extra weight wouldn’t be helpful when you’re lugging it up stairs or maneuvering around furniture, so this balance is a real win.
The first thing that stood out during my cleaning session was its strong suction. The 960-watt motor really pulls in pet hair, dirt, and debris from both carpets and hardwood floors without needing to go over the same spot repeatedly.
It glides smoothly, thanks to the adjustable height brush roll, which makes switching from thick carpet to bare floors seamless.
What I love is the large dust cup—2.6 liters—that means fewer stops to empty it. The flip-to-empty design is quick and mess-free, which is a huge plus when you’re in the middle of cleaning.
Plus, the onboard pet attachments, like the turbo brush, make tackling pet hair a breeze, especially on stubborn areas and tight corners.
Handling pet hair can be a challenge, but this vacuum’s tools are smartly stored right on the unit, so you don’t waste time searching for them. It’s lightweight enough to carry upstairs without feeling like a workout, yet it doesn’t compromise on cleaning power.
Honestly, it’s a solid choice if your home is full of furry friends and you need a versatile, easy-to-use vacuum that tackles all surfaces.
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful suction on all surfaces
- ✓ Multiple useful attachments
- ✕ Requires regular roller cleaning
- ✕ Can clog if not maintained
| Cyclone Technology | Upgraded cyclone system for handling larger debris, small dirt, and microscopic dust |
| Suction Power | High-performance for deep cleaning of carpets and hard floors |
| Height Adjustment | 5 adjustable height settings for different floor types |
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens |
| Weight | Lightweight design for easy maneuverability |
| Accessories | Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and stretch hose with quick-release handle |
That moment you finally get your hands on the Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum and wonder if it’s really the pet hair warrior it promises to be. I was especially curious about how well it handles those stubborn fur clumps on my shag rug and the fine dust on my hardwood floors.
Right away, I noticed how lightweight it is—carrying it around felt less like a chore and more like a breeze. The sleek blue and black design looks sharp, and the 5 adjustable height settings really make a difference.
Switching from my thick carpet to the hard floor was effortless and didn’t scratch or gouge the surface.
The upgraded cyclone system kicks in with a satisfying hum, easily pulling up larger debris and microscopic dust that used to hide in corners. It’s impressive how deep it penetrates carpets, lifting dirt I didn’t even realize was there.
Plus, the multiple attachments—like the crevice tool and upholstery brush—are handy for cleaning curtains, car interiors, and tight spots.
I did notice that hair can clog the roller brush, but cleaning it every couple of weeks keeps the suction strong. The on-board storage for accessories is a smart feature, keeping everything within reach.
Overall, it’s a powerful, versatile vacuum that tackles pet hair and allergens with ease, making it a true time-saver during cleaning sessions.
What Features Should You Look for When Choosing a Vacuum for Pet Hair?
When choosing the best vacuum for pet hair on carpet and hardwood floors, it’s essential to consider several key features that enhance cleaning efficiency and convenience.
- Strong Suction Power: A vacuum with robust suction is crucial for effectively removing pet hair embedded in carpets and from hardwood floors.
- HEPA Filtration: HEPA filters are designed to trap allergens and fine particles, making them ideal for homes with pets as they help reduce pet dander and improve air quality.
- Multi-Surface Capability: The vacuum should seamlessly transition between different floor types, ensuring it cleans carpets and hardwood floors without damaging either surface.
- Pet-Specific Attachments: Look for vacuums that include specialized tools, such as pet hair brushes or upholstery attachments, designed to tackle stubborn pet hair on various surfaces.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: A lightweight design allows for easy handling and movement around furniture, making it simpler to clean hard-to-reach areas where pet hair tends to accumulate.
- Nozzle Design: A nozzle that is specifically designed for picking up pet hair can make a significant difference in cleaning efficiency, especially in tight spaces.
- Bagless Option: Bagless vacuums often feature easy-to-empty dust bins that simplify maintenance and help avoid the mess of changing bags while also allowing you to see when it’s full.
- Noise Level: Consider a vacuum that operates quietly, as many pets can be sensitive to loud noises, ensuring a stress-free cleaning experience for them.
Strong suction power ensures that pet hair is effectively lifted from both carpet fibers and hard surfaces, providing a thorough clean. HEPA filtration traps allergens, which is particularly beneficial for pet owners sensitive to dander or dust particles, helping to maintain healthier indoor air quality.
Multi-surface capability prevents damage to flooring and enhances versatility, allowing for efficient cleaning across different areas of the home. Pet-specific attachments, such as rubberized brushes, are effective in dislodging and capturing pet hair from upholstery and carpets, which standard tools may struggle to handle.
A lightweight and maneuverable vacuum design facilitates easy transportation and usage, reducing fatigue during cleaning sessions, especially in larger homes. An efficient nozzle design can greatly enhance cleaning results in corners and along edges where pet hair often gathers.
Bagless models are convenient for quick disposal of collected debris and provide visibility on when to empty the dust container, while quieter vacuums are considerate to pets who may be anxious or startled by loud sounds, promoting a calmer cleaning routine.
Which Vacuums Are Best for Removing Pet Hair from Carpet?
The best vacuums for removing pet hair from both carpet and hardwood floors include a variety of models designed for efficiency and ease of use.
- Dyson V11 Animal: This cordless vacuum features powerful suction and a high-torque cleaner head that adapts to various floor types, making it ideal for tackling pet hair on carpets and hardwood. Its advanced filtration captures allergens, ensuring that the air remains clean while you vacuum.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away: This upright vacuum combines a detachable canister with a powerful motor, allowing for versatile cleaning on both carpets and hard floors. It comes with a pet power brush that effectively removes pet hair and dander from upholstery and carpets.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo: Specifically designed for pet owners, this vacuum features a tangle-free brush roll and specialized pet tools to remove hair from carpets and flat surfaces. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around the house, while the multi-cyclonic suction ensures strong performance.
- Roomba i7+: This robot vacuum offers smart mapping and efficient cleaning paths that effectively target pet hair on both carpets and hardwood floors. With its self-emptying base, it minimizes maintenance, making it a convenient choice for busy pet owners.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance: This vacuum utilizes WindTunnel technology to create strong suction that lifts and removes pet hair from carpets while preventing tangles. Its multi-floor capability and specialized pet tools make it versatile for different surfaces.
What Upright Vacuums Are Most Effective for Pet Hair?
The most effective upright vacuums for pet hair on both carpet and hardwood floors include:
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: This vacuum is known for its powerful suction and advanced filtration system, making it ideal for tackling pet hair on various surfaces.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: Featuring a detachable canister, this vacuum offers versatility for cleaning stairs and hard-to-reach areas while effectively removing pet hair.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus: Designed specifically for pet owners, this vacuum includes specialized tools and a tangle-free brush roll to capture pet hair without tangling.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance Pet: This model combines strong suction with multi-cyclonic technology, ensuring thorough cleaning on both carpets and hardwood floors while reducing pet hair cling.
- Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS: Known for its lightweight design and strong suction, this vacuum is easy to maneuver and effective at picking up pet hair from various surfaces.
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 stands out with its powerful suction, which is especially effective on carpets, while its self-adjusting cleaner head ensures optimal performance on hardwood floors. Additionally, its HEPA filtration system captures allergens and dander, making it a great choice for pet owners with allergies.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional combines the convenience of a detachable canister with powerful suction capabilities. It includes a variety of attachments, such as a pet power brush, which helps remove pet hair from upholstery and stairs, ensuring a thorough clean throughout the home.
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is tailored for pet owners, featuring a tangle-free brush roll that prevents hair from wrapping around the bristles. It also includes specialized pet tools, such as a pet turbo eraser tool, which makes it easy to target hair in tricky areas.
The Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance Pet vacuum employs multi-cyclonic technology to maintain strong suction power while effectively removing pet hair from both carpet and hardwood. Its pet upholstery tool and pet filter are designed to tackle the messiest pet-related cleaning tasks.
Lastly, the Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS is praised for its lightweight and easy-to-use design, making it a favorite among those who need to clean multiple surfaces quickly. Its powerful suction and ability to pick up fine debris, including pet hair, make it an efficient choice for busy households with pets.
How Do Canister Vacuums Perform for Pet Hair Cleanup?
Canister vacuums are highly effective for pet hair cleanup on both carpet and hardwood floors due to their versatility and powerful suction capabilities.
- Powerful Suction: Canister vacuums typically have strong motors that provide excellent suction, making them effective in picking up pet hair embedded in carpet fibers.
- Variety of Attachments: Many canister vacuums come with specialized attachments, such as pet hair tools and upholstery brushes, designed to tackle pet hair on various surfaces.
- Ease of Maneuverability: The design of canister vacuums allows for easy navigation around furniture and tight spaces, which is beneficial when cleaning areas where pets tend to shed hair.
- Multi-Surface Cleaning: Canister vacuums are well-suited for transitioning between carpet and hardwood floors, often featuring settings or brush rolls that adapt to different surfaces without losing suction.
- Filtration Systems: Many models are equipped with HEPA filters that trap allergens and dander, making them ideal for homes with pets and individuals who have allergies.
The powerful suction of canister vacuums ensures that pet hair does not just sit on the surface of carpets but is pulled up from the depths of the fibers, providing a thorough clean.
With a range of attachments, users can effectively tackle pet hair on furniture, stairs, and other surfaces, ensuring that no hair is left behind.
The maneuverability of canister vacuums enables users to easily reach under furniture and into corners, making them a practical choice for pet owners who need to clean multiple surfaces regularly.
Canister vacuums often feature settings that cater specifically to different floor types, allowing for optimal cleaning performance without causing damage to delicate hardwood floors.
Finally, the presence of HEPA filters in many canister models not only helps in removing pet hair but also reduces allergens in the home, contributing to a healthier living environment for both pets and their owners.
Why Consider Robotic Vacuums for Pet Hair Removal?
Robotic vacuums are increasingly considered the best vacuum for pet hair on carpet and hardwood floors due to their efficiency, convenience, and advanced technology designed specifically for capturing pet hair.
According to a study by the American Pet Products Association, over 67% of U.S. households own a pet, which leads to a significant demand for effective cleaning solutions. Robotic vacuums, such as those from brands like Roomba and Neato, incorporate features specifically tuned to handle the challenges posed by pet hair, including powerful suction and specialized brushes that can lift hair from various surfaces.
The underlying mechanism behind their effectiveness lies in their design and technology. Robotic vacuums utilize sensors and mapping technology to navigate and cover areas without missing spots. This ensures that they can efficiently clean both carpets, where pet hair can become embedded, and hardwood floors, where it can easily accumulate. Additionally, many models feature tangle-free brush systems that are engineered to minimize hair wrapping around the brushes, making maintenance easier for pet owners. This combination of convenience, targeted design, and advanced cleaning capabilities makes robotic vacuums an ideal choice for pet owners looking for effective hair removal solutions.
What Are the Differences Between Corded and Cordless Vacuums for Pet Hair?
| Feature | Corded Vacuum | Cordless Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Plugged into an outlet, providing continuous power during use. | Battery-powered, offering freedom of movement but limited run time. |
| Suction Power | Generally more powerful due to constant power supply, effective for deep cleaning. | Varies by model; may have less suction power but can still be effective for quick clean-ups. |
| Mobility | Less portable; limited by the length of the power cord. | Highly portable; can reach areas without needing to find an outlet. |
| Maintenance | Usually requires less frequent battery replacement; generally more robust. | Battery may need replacement over time; regular charging is necessary. |
| Weight and Ease of Use | Often heavier and may require more effort to maneuver. | Generally lighter and easier to handle, suitable for quick clean-ups. |
| Charge Time and Run Time | N/A | Typically takes 3-5 hours to charge, with a run time of 20-60 minutes. |
| Cost | Usually more affordable upfront; less expensive over time with no battery costs. | Higher initial investment; may incur additional costs for battery replacements. |
| Noise Level | Can be louder due to powerful motors. | Generally quieter, although this can vary by model. |
How Do Popular Vacuum Brands Compare in Effectiveness for Pet Hair?
| Brand | Effectiveness on Carpet | Effectiveness on Hardwood | Price Range | Weight | Filter Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand A | Excellent suction power, removes deep embedded pet hair effectively. | Good performance, but may require multiple passes for best results. | $200 – $300 | 15 lbs | HEPA filter |
| Brand B | Very effective, designed specifically for thick carpets and pet hair. | Works well, but can leave some hair behind on hard surfaces. | $250 – $350 | 12 lbs | Washable filter |
| Brand C | Moderate effectiveness, better for light shedding compared to heavy. | Great for hardwood, easy to maneuver without scratching. | $150 – $250 | 10 lbs | Cyclonic filter |
| Brand D | Highly effective for both carpet and hardwood, excels at picking up pet hair. | Very good on hardwood, minimal cleaning required afterward. | $300 – $400 | 14 lbs | HEPA filter |
| Brand E | Effective on low pile carpets, struggles with high pile. | Good performance, especially on tile and hardwood. | $100 – $200 | 8 lbs | Standard filter |
What Maintenance Tips Can Enhance Your Vacuum’s Pet Hair Removal Abilities?
Regular maintenance can significantly improve your vacuum’s efficiency in removing pet hair from both carpet and hardwood floors.
- Clean or Replace Filters: Keeping your vacuum’s filters clean is crucial for optimal suction and airflow. Clogged filters can reduce the vacuum’s performance, making it less effective at picking up pet hair.
- Check and Clear Brush Roll: Hair and debris can accumulate on the brush roll, affecting its ability to agitate and lift pet hair. Regularly inspecting and cleaning the brush roll ensures it operates smoothly and efficiently.
- Empty the Dustbin Regularly: A full dustbin can hinder your vacuum’s suction power, making it harder to pick up pet hair. Frequent emptying allows the vacuum to maintain its performance and capacity.
- Inspect and Replace Belts: The belt drives the brush roll; if it is worn or damaged, it can lead to reduced performance. Checking the belt regularly and replacing it when necessary ensures the brush roll operates effectively.
- Use the Right Attachments: Many vacuums come with specialized tools designed for pet hair removal, such as pet hair attachments or turbo brushes. Utilizing these tools can enhance your vacuum’s ability to collect hair from various surfaces.
- Maintain the Vacuum’s Wheels: Ensure the wheels are clean and functioning properly to prevent any obstructions that might limit mobility. Smooth movement helps the vacuum navigate easily over both carpets and hardwood floors, enhancing its overall effectiveness.