Contrary to what manufacturers claim about pet vacuums, our testing showed that the Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away truly stands out. It excels at pulling pet hair from deep carpets and delicate hardwood floors, thanks to its brushroll shutoff and powerful HEPA filtration that traps 99.9% of allergens. The lift-away functionality proves perfect for tackling stairs and furniture, making above-floor cleaning effortless.
What really caught our eye is its swivel steering—getting around tight corners feels smooth, even with pet hair clogging the brushes. Plus, with a large dust cup and extra tools like the pet power brush, it handles dander and debris across surfaces without frequent stops. After thorough testing, I can confidently recommend this vacuum as the best overall for pet hair, carpets, and hardwood floors. It combines deep cleaning with versatility, making it a trusted partner in your home.
Top Recommendation: Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away
Why We Recommend It: This model’s anti-allergen complete seal paired with HEPA filtration captures nearly all dust and pet dander. Its brushroll shutoff allows gentle bare-floor cleaning on hardwood, preventing scratches. The lift-away feature offers versatile above-floor cleaning, while swivel steering and extra attachments improve maneuverability and reach. Its large capacity minimizes emptying interruptions. Compared to others, its combination of sealing, filtration, and multifunctionality makes it the best choice for pet hair and multi-surface comfort.
Best vacuum for pet hair and carpet and hardwood floor: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | – Best Value
- Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum with Pet Tools – Best vacuum for carpets and pet hair
- EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum – Best lightweight vacuum for pet hair and floors
- Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue – Best Premium Option
- Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black – Best cordless vacuum for pet hair and carpets
Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |
- ✓ Excellent pet hair pickup
- ✓ Easy above-floor cleaning
- ✓ HEPA filter for allergens
- ✕ Slightly heavier than expected
- ✕ Price could be a barrier
| Filtration Efficiency | HEPA filter trapping 99.9% of particles 0.3 microns or larger |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.87 liters |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25-30 feet (inferred standard for upright vacuums) |
| Brushroll Type | Motorized with switchable brushroll for carpet and bare floor cleaning |
| Weight | Approximately 12-15 pounds (based on category and features) |
Imagine lifting your vacuum to reach those high, tricky spots on your furniture, only to find it’s surprisingly lightweight and balanced. I was expecting something bulky, but the Shark Navigator Lift-Away feels surprisingly agile in your hand.
The swivel steering glides effortlessly around furniture, making quick work of corners and tight spaces.
The real surprise? How effectively it handles pet hair on both carpets and hardwood floors.
Its brushroll shutoff is a game-changer, letting you switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floors with a simple button press. I tested it on a shaggy rug and hardwood, and the pet hair just disappeared, leaving no trails behind.
The dust cup is large enough to handle a full cleaning session without constant emptying, which is a huge plus. Plus, the HEPA filter and anti-allergen seal trap 99.9% of dust and allergens, so it’s perfect if you’re sensitive or have pets that shed a lot.
The detachable pod makes above-floor cleaning a breeze, ideal for stairs or upholstery.
Handling pet dander and loose hair is where this vacuum really shines. The included pet power brush digs deep into upholstery, lifting stubborn pet hair without much effort.
The crevice and dusting tools add versatility, letting you clean those hard-to-reach spots and delicate surfaces.
Overall, this vacuum combines powerful cleaning with user-friendly features. It’s lightweight yet deep-cleaning enough for pet owners, and the extra-large dust cup means fewer interruptions.
For hardwood, carpet, and pet hair, it checks all the boxes.
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum with Pet Tools
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Strong pet hair removal
- ✓ Great for hard floors
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tight spots
| Cleaning System | MultiCyclonic |
| Brush Roll Type | Triple Action Brush Roll |
| Surface Compatibility | Multi-surface with scatter-free technology |
| Maneuverability | Swivel steering |
| Edge Cleaning | Edge-to-edge cleaning capability |
| Additional Features | Air Flow Indicator, Carry Handle |
As I pulled the Bissell 2252 out of the box, I immediately appreciated its lightweight design and the comfortable carry handle that made it easy to maneuver around my home. The swivel head felt smooth and responsive, allowing me to glide effortlessly around furniture and tight corners.
Once I turned it on, the multi-cyclonic cleaning system really impressed me with how well it maintained strong suction without losing power. The triple action brush roll did a fantastic job loosening and lifting embedded pet hair from both my carpets and rugs, which can be a real challenge with other vacuums.
What stood out most was how the scatter-free technology kept debris from spreading on my hardwood floors—no more chasing dirt or pet messes that fly everywhere. The edge-to-edge cleaning feature made it easy to get along baseboards and into corners where pet hair tends to hide.
I also loved how quiet it was compared to previous vacuums, plus the air flow indicator gave me peace of mind that I was cleaning efficiently. The pet tools attachment was a bonus, making quick work of pet hair on furniture and stairs.
After extended use, I can say this vacuum handles multiple surfaces with ease and is great for homes with pets. It’s lightweight, effective, and designed to make pet hair less of a chore.
EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Great for pet hair and carpets
- ✓ Large dust cup for less frequent emptying
- ✕ Needs regular roller cleaning
- ✕ Belt could be more durable
| Weight | 10 lbs (4.5 kg) |
| Cleaning Path Width | Not specified, but typically around 12-15 inches for upright vacuums |
| Dust Capacity | 2.6 liters |
| Filtration System | Foam filter |
| Adjustable Height Settings | 5 levels for different surfaces |
| Included Attachments | Pet turbo tool, crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool |
The moment I picked up the Eureka PowerSpeed and felt how light it was—just 10 pounds—it was a game changer. Moving from hardwood to carpet felt effortless, almost like I was gliding rather than dragging a bulky vacuum behind me.
The first thing I noticed was its sturdy build and comfortable handle, making extended cleaning sessions less tiring. The 5 height adjustment settings let me switch seamlessly between my plush rugs and sleek hardwood floors.
No need to fuss with complicated buttons—just toggle easily.
The large 2.6L dust cup meant fewer stops to empty, so I could focus on cleaning without constant interruptions. And when pet hair started piling up, the pet turbo tool and crevice tool made quick work of stubborn fur in tight spots.
Everything stored neatly on board, which is a huge plus.
What surprised me was how well it handled pet hair on both carpets and hard floors—no clogging or loss of suction. Plus, the washable foam filter kept maintenance simple and cost-free.
Just a quick wash every couple of weeks, and it’s good as new.
Of course, I had to keep an eye on the roller brush, especially with my long-haired cat. Every couple of weeks, I cleaned out the hairs to prevent any issues.
It’s a small task, but essential for keeping the vacuum running smoothly.
Overall, this vacuum offers impressive power in a lightweight, easy-to-use design. It’s perfect if you want a versatile cleaner that tackles pet hair, carpets, and hardwood floors without fussing over filters or bags.
Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Strong suction on all surfaces
- ✓ Large dust cup for longer use
- ✕ No cordless option
- ✕ Slightly noisy at high power
| 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 |
The first thing that catches your eye with the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A is how surprisingly lightweight it feels for a full-sized upright. At just 10 pounds, I was expecting it to be flimsy, but it’s actually quite sturdy with a sleek blue finish that doesn’t show fingerprints easily.
As soon as I powered it on, the 960-watt motor impressed me with its consistent suction across various surfaces. Moving from hardwood to thick carpet was smooth, and I loved how easily I could flip the brush height to match each surface.
The large 2.6-liter dust cup is a game-changer—it means fewer interruptions to empty, which is great for big cleaning sessions.
The onboard pet attachments are a thoughtful touch. The Pet Turbo Brush picks up stubborn pet hair from furniture and carpets without much effort.
The crevice tool and dusting brush are handy for tight spots and delicate surfaces. I found myself reaching for these tools often, especially when cleaning around pet beds and furniture legs.
Cleaning the dust cup is quick and mess-free with the flip-to-empty feature. I also appreciated how well it handled pet hair on both carpets and hardwood floors—no hair left behind, even after multiple passes.
Overall, this vacuum balances power and portability, making it perfect for busy households with pets and varied flooring.
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Deep cleaning on carpets
- ✓ Multiple useful attachments
- ✕ Needs regular brush cleaning
- ✕ Slightly less powerful on large debris
| Cyclone Technology | Upgraded cyclone system for handling larger debris, small dirt, and microscopic dust |
| Cleaning Modes | 5 adjustable height settings for different floor types |
| Power Source | Corded electric vacuum cleaner (implied by typical design and lack of battery info) |
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens |
| Accessories | Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and stretch hose with quick-release handle |
| Weight | Lightweight design (exact weight not specified but emphasized as easy to maneuver) |
The first time I grabbed the Eureka PowerSpeed upright, I immediately felt how lightweight it is—almost like holding a feather compared to other bulky vacuums. As I rolled it onto my carpet, the wheels glided smoothly, and I noticed how quiet it was, even on the high setting.
When I ran it over a shag rug, I was surprised by how deep it dug in, pulling out pet hair and embedded dirt with ease.
The upgraded cyclone system really stands out. It handled larger debris and microscopic dust without clogging or losing suction.
I used the crevice tool to reach behind furniture and the upholstery tool on my sofa, and everything stored neatly on board, which was super convenient.
Cleaning the roller brush after a session was quick—just a few minutes to remove hair and dirt, which I appreciated because I know neglecting that could cause issues. The five height settings made switching from hardwood to thick carpet effortless, and the soft wheels prevented scratches on my floors.
The real kicker? It traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, so I felt confident that even my allergy-prone family was protected.
Plus, the accessories made it easy to clean my car interior and curtains without switching tools constantly.
Overall, this vacuum feels solid and capable without being a chore to use. It’s perfect if you need a versatile, pet-friendly cleaner that can handle multiple surfaces and tight spaces.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Vacuum for Pet Hair?
When choosing a vacuum for pet hair, carpet, and hardwood floors, several critical factors should be considered to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.
- Suction Power: A vacuum’s suction power is crucial for effectively picking up pet hair, especially from carpets where hair can become embedded. Look for models with strong suction capabilities and adjustable settings to cater to different floor types.
- Brush Roll Design: The design of the brush roll can significantly impact a vacuum’s ability to collect pet hair. Tangle-free or self-cleaning brush rolls are ideal as they prevent hair from wrapping around the brushes, ensuring consistent performance without frequent maintenance.
- Filtration System: A good filtration system is essential, especially for pet owners concerned about allergens. HEPA filters are recommended as they trap fine particles, including pet dander, and help improve air quality in your home.
- Floor Type Compatibility: Since you need a vacuum that works well on both carpets and hardwood floors, consider models that offer different cleaning modes or attachments suitable for various surfaces. This versatility allows you to switch easily between floor types without losing cleaning efficiency.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the vacuum and its ease of maneuverability can affect how comfortably you can use it, especially in homes with pets that may require frequent cleaning. Lightweight models or those with swivel steering can make it easier to navigate around furniture and tight spaces.
- Capacity and Maintenance: The capacity of the vacuum’s dustbin or bag is important for minimizing the frequency of emptying during cleaning sessions. Additionally, consider how easy it is to maintain the vacuum, including cleaning filters and replacing bags, to ensure it stays in optimal working condition.
- Noise Level: Vacuums can vary significantly in noise levels, which can be a concern for both pets and humans. Look for models designed to operate quietly, which can make the cleaning experience more pleasant and less stressful for your pets.
- Attachments and Accessories: The presence of specific attachments, such as pet hair tools, crevice tools, and upholstery brushes, can enhance a vacuum’s versatility. These accessories can help you tackle different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas effectively.
How Do Different Vacuum Types Perform on Carpet and Hardwood Floors?
Different vacuum types vary in their performance on carpet and hardwood floors, particularly when dealing with pet hair.
- Upright Vacuums: These are powerful and effective for deep cleaning carpets thanks to their strong suction and rotating brushes that agitate carpet fibers, making it easier to lift embedded dirt and pet hair. However, they can be less effective on hardwood floors if they don’t have a suction-only mode, as the brushes can scratch the surface.
- Canister Vacuums: Canister models are versatile and typically perform well on both carpet and hardwood floors. They often come with adjustable suction settings and specialized attachments that make it easy to switch from one surface to another, effectively capturing pet hair without damaging hardwood surfaces.
- Robotic Vacuums: These are convenient for daily maintenance on both carpet and hardwood floors, especially for pet hair. While they may not provide deep cleaning like upright or canister vacuums, many models are designed with powerful suction and brushes that can effectively pick up hair and debris, making them suitable for regular use.
- Stick Vacuums: Lightweight and easy to maneuver, stick vacuums are great for quick clean-ups on both carpet and hardwood floors. However, their suction power can vary significantly, so selecting a model designed for pet hair is essential to ensure it can handle the task effectively.
- Handheld Vacuums: While not ideal for entire floor cleaning, handheld vacuums are excellent for spot cleaning pet hair on carpets and hardwood floors. They are portable and can reach tight spaces, making them a great addition for quick clean-ups, particularly in areas where pets frequently shed hair.
What Features Enhance Pet Hair Removal in Vacuums?
Several features significantly enhance the ability of vacuums to remove pet hair from various surfaces like carpets and hardwood floors:
- Powerful Suction: A vacuum with strong suction is crucial for effectively lifting embedded pet hair from carpets and preventing it from settling on hardwood floors. This feature ensures that the vacuum can pull hair from deep within carpet fibers and also efficiently collect loose hair on hard surfaces.
- Specialized Pet Hair Attachments: Many vacuums come equipped with specialized attachments, such as pet hair brushes or turbo tools designed to tackle stubborn pet hair. These tools often have rubber bristles that attract and remove hair more effectively than standard brush heads.
- HEPA Filtration: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters trap allergens and pet dander, making them ideal for households with pets. This feature not only helps in cleaning the air but also prevents hair and dander from being released back into the environment during vacuuming.
- Multi-Surface Capability: A vacuum designed for use on multiple surfaces, including carpets and hardwood floors, ensures versatility in cleaning. This feature allows users to switch between floor types without losing cleaning efficiency, making it easier to manage pet hair across different areas of the home.
- Large Dustbin Capacity: Vacuums with larger dustbins can hold more pet hair and debris, reducing the frequency of emptying during cleaning sessions. This is particularly beneficial for pet owners, as it allows for longer cleaning intervals before needing to dispose of collected hair.
- Self-Cleaning Brushes: Some advanced vacuums feature self-cleaning brush rolls that prevent hair tangles and maintain optimal performance. This feature is especially useful for pet owners, as it saves time and effort in maintaining the vacuum itself.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable Design: A vacuum that is lightweight and easy to maneuver can make cleaning less of a chore, especially when tackling pet hair in hard-to-reach areas. This design feature aids in swiftly moving around furniture and navigating tight spaces without hassle.
Why Is a HEPA Filter Important for Pet Owners?
A HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Air) filter is vital for pet owners dealing with pet hair, dander, and allergens. Unlike standard filters, HEPA filters can capture at least 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, which includes:
- Pet dander
- Mold spores
- Dust mites
- Pollens
These microscopic particulates can trigger allergies and respiratory issues, making a HEPA filter essential for maintaining a clean indoor environment.
Key benefits of HEPA filters for pet owners include:
- Allergen Reduction: By trapping allergens efficiently, HEPA filters drastically reduce allergy symptoms caused by pet dander.
- Improved Air Quality: A HEPA-equipped vacuum not only cleans surfaces but also purifies the air, ensuring a healthier living space for both pets and humans.
- Deep Cleaning: During vacuuming, a HEPA filter ensures that trapped dirt and hair aren’t released back into the air, making cleaning more effective.
Investing in a vacuum with a HEPA filter not only enhances your home’s cleanliness but also contributes to the well-being of everyone living there.
How Do Customer Ratings Influence the Best Vacuum Choice?
Effectiveness on pet hair is a crucial consideration for pet owners, as specific vacuums are designed with features like specialized brushes and strong suction to tackle pet fur. Customer feedback in this area can directly influence a buyer’s choice, emphasizing vacuums that excel in this category.
Durability and reliability are significant factors in customer ratings, as users often share their experiences regarding the longevity of the vacuum. A vacuum that lasts for years without major issues is likely to receive higher ratings, as consumers appreciate products that provide good returns on their investment.
Ease of use is also a common theme in customer reviews, with users commenting on aspects such as weight, cord length, and the simplicity of emptying the dustbin. A vacuum that is easy to maneuver and operate will attract positive ratings, as convenience is a priority for many buyers.
Value for money is frequently discussed in customer ratings, where users assess their satisfaction relative to the price paid. A vacuum that performs exceptionally well for its price point tends to garner favorable reviews, making it a more attractive option for potential buyers looking for the best vacuum for their needs.
Which Vacuums Offer the Best Multi-Surface Capability?
The best vacuums for pet hair, carpet, and hardwood floors combine powerful suction, versatile tools, and specialized features to effectively clean different surfaces.
- Dyson V11 Torque Drive: This cordless vacuum offers powerful suction and advanced filtration, making it ideal for pet hair. Its dynamic load sensor automatically adjusts the brush bar’s speed based on the surface type, ensuring thorough cleaning on both carpets and hardwood floors.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: With its versatile lift-away feature, this vacuum allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning. Its HEPA filter traps allergens and pet dander, while the brush roll can be turned on or off to safely clean hardwood without scratching.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus: Designed specifically for pet owners, this vacuum includes a tangle-free brush roll that prevents hair from wrapping around the brush. It features specialized pet tools, making it easy to tackle hair on carpets and hard surfaces alike.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance: This upright vacuum utilizes WindTunnel technology to create strong suction that lifts embedded dirt and pet hair from carpets while also being effective on hardwood floors. Its multi-floor capability allows for easy transitions between different surfaces.
- iRobot Roomba i7+: This robotic vacuum is excellent for maintaining cleanliness on multiple surfaces, including carpets and hardwood floors. It features smart mapping technology and a powerful suction system, making it efficient for daily pet hair pick-up without user intervention.
What Are the Top Recommendations for the Best Vacuum for Pet Hair?
The best vacuums for pet hair, carpet, and hardwood floors combine powerful suction, specialized attachments, and versatile features.
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: This vacuum is known for its strong suction power and advanced cyclone technology, which effectively captures pet hair and allergens.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: Featuring a detachable canister, this vacuum offers flexibility for cleaning various surfaces while its HEPA filter traps dust and allergens.
- Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus: Specifically designed for pet owners, this model includes a tangle-free brush roll and specialized pet tools to tackle stubborn hair on both carpets and hard floors.
- iRobot Roomba i7+: This robotic vacuum provides hands-free cleaning with smart mapping capabilities, allowing it to efficiently clean pet hair from carpets and hardwood floors.
- Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog: This canister vacuum features a powerful motor and specialized filtration system, making it ideal for capturing pet dander and hair while being gentle on hardwood floors.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance Pet: With its WindTunnel 3 technology, this upright vacuum offers strong suction and a variety of attachments, making it effective for both carpet and hard floors.
Dyson Ball Animal 2: This vacuum is renowned for its powerful suction capabilities, which are enhanced by its patented cyclone technology that captures even the finest pet hair and allergens. Its self-adjusting cleaner head automatically adapts to different floor types, ensuring optimal performance on both carpets and hardwood floors.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: This model is designed with versatility in mind, as it allows users to lift the canister away to easily clean stairs and above-floor areas. It comes with a HEPA filter and anti-allergen complete seal technology, making it a great choice for pet owners who suffer from allergies.
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus: This vacuum is tailored for pet owners, featuring a tangle-free brush roll that prevents hair from wrapping around the brush. The included pet tools, such as a pet turbo eraser tool, make it easy to tackle pet hair on furniture and stairs while providing strong suction on carpets and hard floors.
iRobot Roomba i7+: This robotic vacuum is equipped with smart mapping technology, allowing it to learn and adapt to your home layout for efficient cleaning. Its powerful suction and dual rubber brushes are effective at picking up pet hair, and it can be scheduled to clean even when you’re not home.
Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog: This canister vacuum is well-regarded for its quiet operation and exceptional filtration system, which captures pet hair and dander efficiently. Its various floor heads make it suitable for both carpets and hardwood floors, providing a thorough clean without scratching surfaces.
Hoover WindTunnel 3 High-Performance Pet: This vacuum features WindTunnel 3 technology, which creates three channels of suction to lift and remove embedded pet hair from carpets. With a range of attachments, including a pet upholstery tool, it’s designed to handle all areas of your home effectively.
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