5 Unbeatable Ways To Eliminate Dog Hair From Your Home

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You love your dog, but do you love cleaning up their fur? All dogs shed. Fur helps control your pup’s temperature. Also, it protects your pooch’s skin from the sun. Despite the benefits to your pup, cleaning stray dog hair is time-consuming and maybe even a little annoying.

An average vacuum cleaner just won’t get the job done. You need a powerful device and its attachments to defeat dog hair. Make your life a little easier by purchasing a powerful vacuum to efficiently remove fur from your furniture and floors. Our list has pros and cons for the various appliances and real-life reviews. In addition, you’ll find a buyer’s guide to help you make a more informed choice. And if you’ve got questions about pet hair vacuums, we’ve got answers. Check out the FAQs section right after the list of best vacuums for dog owners.

Best Vacuums for Cleaning Dog Hair

1. Pet Hair Eraser® Turbo Plus Vacuum Cleaner

Best All-Around Cleaner

The BISSELL 24613 Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus shines when it comes to powerful suction and specialized tools that target embedded hair with relative ease. Plus, the tangle-free brush is all it promises to be, with one reviewer writing, “The anti-tangle brush roll is FANTASTIC. I’ve never found a vacuum in my life where I didn’t have to take the brush roll out and cut the hair off of it like once a week.” Plus, this upright vacuum is lightweight for easy everyday use. Plus, when you shop on Bissell.com, you receive free shipping on orders over $40.

• Cost: $247.19
• Type: Upright
• Use on: Carpet, hardwood, and tile floors
• Pros: The tangle-free brush roll is an exceptional design feature that minimizes hair wraps and makes maintenance a breeze.
• Cons: Tough to maneuver on carpet

2. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Handheld Vacuum

Best Handheld

This handheld device scored 4.6 out of 5 stars with more than 30,000 reviews on Amazon. The small cleaner is a great supplement to your upright vacuum. It easily removes fur from furniture, dog beds, and stairs. An Amazon reviewer raved, “It’s amazing and worth EVERY SINGLE PENNY! It works very well. The suction is good, and that brush does exactly what I hoped it would do. Wish I’d found this before I got my second-hand vac. This is the best one I’ve got, and if I ever need to replace one of the others, I’ll be getting another of these.”

• Cost: $79.39
• Type: Handheld
• Use on: Anywhere! It’s cordless
• Pros: Large, easy-to-empty canister, triple filtration, and three specialized pet tools
• Cons: Some reviewers report that this option wore out after a year of use

3. Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum

Best Upright Vacuum

This vacuum lifts stubborn dog hair from every surface, and its powerful suction adapts automatically to carpet, hardwood, vinyl, and tile so your home stays fresh for you and your pup. One Amazon reviewer said, “The brush bar digs deep and pulls up fur I didn’t even see, and my dog bed looks brand new!”

• Cost: $399.99
• Type: Upright
• Use on: All flooring types
• Pros: suction for pet hair, steering with a ball design, and bin emptying.
• Cons: Heavier than stick vacuums, cord requires manual wrapping.

4. Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Cordless Stick Vacuum

Best Cordless Vacuum

Another Dyson? Yes, please! This one is light and cord-free. GH said, “Dyson’s super-lightweight (and cordless!) model received perfect scores in our pet hair pick-up tests. Not only was it great at picking up pet hair on floors, but it also converts into a hand vac, allowing you to easily tackle furniture too.”

• Cost: 420.96
• Type: Stick
• Use on: Any type of flooring
• Pros: Compact, cordless, light, easily cleans under furniture, on stairs, and corners
• Cons: Requires charging

5. iRobot Roomba 890 Robot Vacuum 

Best Robot

Forget the work involved with vacuuming and let this machine get down to business for you. The Roomba has sensors, app control, and scheduling, and is compatible with Alexa. One Amazon reviewer commented, “I was both horrified by the amount of dog hair the Roomba was able to find, and also impressed that it found that much dog hair!” 

• Cost: $479.97
• Type: Robotic vacuum, can be controlled and scheduled by its app
• Use on: Any type of flooring. The Roomba’s cleaning head automatically adjusts its height as it switches between hardwood and carpet.
• Pros: Set it and forget it. Roomba says its “High-Efficiency Filter captures 99% of allergens, pollen, and dust as small as 10 microns.”
• Cons: It can damage electrical cords lying on the floor. The small size requires frequent emptying.

Buyer’s Guide: Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Vacuums for Dog Owners

When buying vacuums specifically for dealing with dog hair, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key considerations:

Suction Power

Look for vacuums with strong suction power, as dog hair can be stubborn and difficult to remove. Higher suction power will help effectively pick up embedded hairs from various surfaces.

Filtration System

Opt for vacuums with advanced filtration systems, such as HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters. These filters can capture tiny particles, including allergens and dander, ensuring cleaner air quality.

Brush Roll Design

Consider vacuums with specialized brush rolls designed to tackle pet hair. Look for models with tangle-free or self-cleaning brush rolls to prevent hair from wrapping around the brush and causing clogs or decreased performance.

Versatility and Attachments

Check if the vacuum comes with specific attachments suitable for pet hair removal. Attachments like upholstery tools, crevice tools, or pet hair brushes can help you clean different surfaces effectively, such as furniture, stairs, or hard-to-reach areas.

Bagged or Bagless

Decide whether you prefer a bagged or bagless vacuum. Bagged vacuums generally offer better containment of dust and allergens during disposal, but require ongoing bag replacement. Bagless vacuums eliminate the need for bags but may require more frequent filter cleaning or replacement.

Maneuverability

Consider the vacuum’s weight, size, and maneuverability. You’ll want a vacuum that can easily navigate around furniture, reach under low areas, and move effortlessly between rooms, making cleaning more convenient and efficient.

Noise Level

If you have noise-sensitive pets or household members, look for vacuums that have lower noise emissions. Some manufacturers provide noise level information in decibels (dB) to help you gauge the loudness.

Durability and Warranty

Read reviews or look for vacuums known for their durability and reliability. Additionally, check the warranty offered by the manufacturer to ensure you have sufficient coverage in case of any issues.

User Reviews and Recommendations

Research and read customer reviews or seek recommendations from other pet owners. Real-world experiences can provide valuable insights into the vacuum’s performance and suitability for dog hair removal.

By considering these factors, you can select a vacuum cleaner that meets your specific needs and effectively manages dog hair in your home.

FAQs About the Best Vacuums for Dog Owners

1. Are cordless vacuums suitable for cleaning dog hair?

Cordless vacuums can be suitable for cleaning dog hair, especially if they have sufficient suction power and appropriate attachments. Many modern cordless vacuums are designed with specialized brushes and tools that effectively remove pet hair from various surfaces. However, it’s essential to choose a cordless vacuum with strong suction to ensure efficient cleaning. Keep in mind that cordless vacuums typically have a limited runtime, so it’s important to consider the battery life and whether it can handle the cleaning needs of your home. Additionally, some cordless models may have smaller dust canisters, requiring more frequent emptying when dealing with large amounts of dog hair.

2. Can vacuums with HEPA filters help with pet allergies caused by dog hair?

Vacuums equipped with HEPA filters can indeed help with pet allergies caused by dog hair. HEPA filters are highly effective in capturing and trapping microscopic allergens, including pet dander, which can alleviate allergic reactions. These filters can prevent the recirculation of airborne allergens back into the environment, improving the air quality in your home. However, it’s important to note that while HEPA filters can help with allergies, they should be properly maintained and periodically replaced as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure their effectiveness.

3. How often should I vacuum to effectively manage dog hair?

The frequency of vacuuming required to effectively manage dog hair depends on various factors such as the shedding level of your dog, the number of pets, and your home’s cleanliness preferences. As a general guideline, it’s recommended to vacuum high-traffic areas at least two to three times a week, while other areas can be vacuumed once a week. If you have heavy shedders or family members with allergies, more frequent vacuuming may be necessary. Regular vacuuming not only removes visible dog hair but also helps prevent hair accumulation, reduces allergens, and keeps your home cleaner and healthier overall.

4. Can I use a robot vacuum for dog hair?

Robot vacuums can be used for dog hair, but their effectiveness may vary depending on the model and the type of surfaces in your home. Some robot vacuums are specifically designed to handle pet hair with features like strong suction power and tangle-free brushes. They can efficiently pick up dog hair from hard floors and low-pile carpets. However, long-haired or heavy-shedding dogs may pose challenges for robot vacuums, as their brushes can get easily tangled. Additionally, some robot vacuums have smaller dust canisters, which may require more frequent emptying when dealing with significant amounts of dog hair. While robot vacuums can provide convenience and assist with maintenance, occasional manual cleaning with a traditional vacuum may still be necessary for a thorough clean.

5. Are bagged or bagless vacuums better for picking up dog hair?

Both bagged and bagless vacuums can effectively pick up dog hair, but there are some differences to consider. Bagged vacuums tend to provide better containment of dust, allergens, and dog hair during disposal, as the debris is securely trapped inside the bag. This can be beneficial for individuals with allergies or asthma. On the other hand, bagless vacuums offer the convenience of not needing to purchase or replace bags. They typically have transparent canisters, allowing you to see when they need emptying. However, with bagless models, it’s important to clean or replace the filters regularly to maintain optimal performance and prevent clogs caused by accumulated dog hair. Ultimately, the choice between bagged and bagless vacuums for dog hair pickup depends on your personal preferences and specific needs.

6. Are there specific vacuum attachments or tools for pet hair removal?

Yes, there are specific vacuum attachments and tools designed specifically for pet hair removal. Some common attachments include motorized pet hair brushes, upholstery tools with rubberized bristles, and crevice tools. Motorized pet hair brushes are particularly effective for deep-cleaning carpets and removing embedded dog hair. Upholstery tools with rubber bristles are great for removing hair from furniture and fabric surfaces, as they attract and lift the hair. Crevice tools help you clean hard-to-reach areas like corners or tight spaces where dog hair can accumulate. These attachments and tools can significantly enhance your vacuum’s performance in tackling dog hair and making the cleaning process more efficient and thorough.

7. What is the average lifespan of a vacuum when used to clean dog hair regularly?

The average lifespan of a vacuum when used to clean dog hair regularly can vary depending on several factors. These factors include the quality and durability of the vacuum, the frequency and intensity of use, maintenance and cleaning practices, and the specific type of dog hair and its shedding levels. Generally, a well-maintained, high-quality vacuum can last for several years, even with regular cleaning for dog hair. However, heavy shedding or long-haired dogs may result in increased wear and tear on the vacuum’s components, potentially shortening its lifespan. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing filters, emptying the dust canister or changing bags, and inspecting the brush roll regularly. Proper care and maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your vacuum when dealing with regular dog hair cleaning.

Related: Is Your Dog Shedding Like Crazy? This Can Help!

Say Goodbye to Stubborn Dog Hair for Good

Dealing with dog hair does not have to feel like a never-ending battle. With the right mix of smart tools, simple habits, and a little consistency, you can keep your home clean without sacrificing cuddle time with your pup. These five strategies make it easier to stay ahead of shedding, so you spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your dog. A fur-free home is not about perfection. It is about creating a space that feels fresh, comfortable, and truly yours.

iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.