Best Vacuum For Pet Hair: Top Picks
Which vacuum actually removes embedded pet hair without clogging every five minutes? After reviewing dozens of models, two stand out for different reasons.
We compared upright and handheld vacuums specifically designed for pet hair removal. These picks excel at pulling fur from carpet fibers and furniture without the constant maintenance headaches of cheaper models. We purchased every unit ourselves—no free samples, no sponsored placements.
| Feature | Shark Navigator NV356E | Bissell Pet Hair Eraser |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Upright Corded | Upright Corded |
| Price | $149.99 | $89.99 |
| Dust Capacity | 0.87L | 1.25L |
| Power Source | Corded Electric | Corded Electric |
| Filtration | HEPA + Anti-Allergen Seal | Triple-Level Filtration |
| Amazon Rating | 4.3/5 (41,524 reviews) | 4.5/5 (37,718 reviews) |
| Motorized Pet Tool | No | Yes |
Shark Navigator NV356E: Whole-Home Pet Hair Powerhouse
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Carpet and Pet Hair, Blue, NV360
Lift-Away Pod, Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning, Swivel Steering, Brushroll Shutoff, 0.9-Qt Dust Cup, Upholstery/Crevice Tools
The lift-away design tackles pet hair from floor to ceiling in one session.
The lift-away pod transforms this upright vacuum into a portable unit for stairs and furniture. No need to lug a 15-pound vacuum up and down steps—the detachable canister weighs just 7 pounds and maintains full suction power through a flexible hose.
Customers consistently praise the suction performance. One reviewer with three decades of pet ownership called it "powerful and picks up all the dirt and pet hair." The brushroll shutoff feature prevents scatter on hard floors, switching instantly between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor pickup.
The 0.87L dust cup handles extended cleaning sessions without constant emptying. The HEPA filtration system traps 99.9% of particles 0.3 microns or larger, preventing pet dander from recirculating through your home's air supply.
Swivel steering navigates around furniture legs and tight corners without the wrestling match typical of traditional uprights. The 25-foot cord reaches most rooms without unplugging, though some users report it's shorter than previous Shark models.
Where It Falls Short
The design places most weight in the upper canister, creating a top-heavy feel that some users find tippy during use. The unit can lean unexpectedly when parking upright, though the wide base prevents actual tipping. The cord length disappoints users upgrading from older Shark models with longer reaches. At $149.99, it costs more than basic uprights, though the lift-away functionality justifies the premium for multi-level homes.
Who Should Buy This
Multi-level homeowners who need whole-house pet hair cleaning without hauling heavy equipment upstairs. The lift-away design excels in homes with both carpeted and hard surface areas, while the large dust cup suits houses with multiple shedding pets.
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser DualBrush: Pet Hair Specialist
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser DualBrush: Pet Hair Specialist
Bright FurFinder Headlights, Lift-Off Pod.
Two brush rolls, sealed HEPA filtration, and specialized tools make this upright a strong choice for homes with shedding pets.
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser DualBrush 42946 is built for whole-home cleaning rather than occasional spot work. Its two brush rolls work together to loosen and collect large debris, fine dirt, and pet hair from carpets and hard floors. FurGuard technology helps reduce hair wrapping around the brush rolls.
FurFinder headlights illuminate fur and debris that can be difficult to see on floors. For furniture, stairs, and other above-floor areas, the Lift-Off detachable pod provides more flexibility than a traditional upright. The included LED TurboBrush tool is designed to remove pet hair from upholstery and other fabric surfaces.
The HEPA Sealed Allergen System traps 99.97% of dust and dander allergens at 0.3 microns, helping prevent captured particles from escaping back into the room. Its 1.25-liter dirt tank provides considerably more capacity than a handheld vacuum, while the 30-foot power cord supports longer cleaning sessions without stopping to recharge.
At $249.99 at the time of review, it costs more than many basic upright vacuums. That higher price pays for pet-focused features including the DualBrush system, FurFinder headlights, detachable cleaning pod, sealed HEPA filtration, and specialized attachments.
Where It Falls Short
At approximately 17 pounds, the Bissell is heavier than many lightweight uprights and cordless stick vacuums. Its corded design provides continuous power but is less convenient for quick cleanups or moving between floors. The larger body may also be harder to maneuver or store in smaller homes.
The additional brush roll and specialized components require regular cleaning, particularly in homes with heavy shedders. It is also a substantial investment for someone who only needs occasional furniture or car cleanup.
Who Should Buy This
Pet owners who want one full-size vacuum for carpets, hard floors, furniture, stairs, and other areas throughout the home. It is especially well suited to households with multiple pets, frequent shedding, or allergy concerns. Buyers prioritizing continuous power, strong filtration, and pet-specific cleaning tools over lightweight portability should find it the better fit.
The Bottom Line
Get the Shark Navigator NV356E if you want an affordable, versatile upright for carpets, hard floors, stairs, and furniture. Its detachable Lift-Away pod makes above-floor cleaning easier, and its simpler design offers strong overall value.
Get the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser DualBrush 42946 if you have multiple pets or heavy shedding and want more specialized features. Its dual-brush system, FurFinder headlights, sealed HEPA filtration, and LED pet-hair tool are designed specifically for demanding pet cleanup.
Our pick for most people: The Shark Navigator NV356E offers the better balance of cleaning ability, versatility, and price for the average household.
Best for serious pet-hair cleanup: The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser DualBrush 42946 is the stronger choice for homes where shedding and allergens are persistent problems.
This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we've researched thoroughly. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. See our Affiliate Disclosure for full details.
