The Best Handheld Vacuums For Pet Hair That Efficiently Tackle Everyday Messes

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Following Jul 31, 2023, 06:54pm EDT | Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin When you have pets, there are numerous everyday messes to clean up, from clumps of fur on the furniture to cat litter scattered across the floor. Pulling out your full-size vacuum for these small tasks might seem impractical, which is where the best handheld vacuums for pet hair prove to be invaluable. Our top choice is the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum , a handheld option that offers 17 minutes of cleaning timer per charge and a three-stage filtration system for an efficient and thorough cleaning experience.

The best handheld vacuums for pet hair are lightweight and portable, making them easy to maneuver in . . .

[+] difficult-to-reach areas such as furniture, stairs or car interiors where pets often leave behind hair. Illustration: Forbes / Photo: Retailers “Handheld vacuums are an excellent choice for pet owners due to their convenience and efficiency,” explains Toby Schulz, CEO and co-founder of Australian cleaning service Maid2Match . “They are lightweight and portable, making them easy to maneuver in difficult-to-reach areas such as furniture, stairs or car interiors where pets often leave behind hair.

” The best handheld vacuums come in both corded and cordless models. While corded options offer unlimited runtime, battery-powered ones can be used anywhere, even without a nearby plug outlet. As you shop for the ideal handheld vacuum, you’ll want to consider factors like suction power, special attachments and weight.

If you’re ready to stop lugging your full-size vacuum out for every little task, here are the best handheld vacuums for pet hair to add to your cleaning arsenal. Best Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair Overall: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum Best Handheld Cordless Vacuum For Pet Hair: Dyson Humdinger Best Handheld Corded Vacuum For Pet Hair: Dirt Devil Scorpion+ Corded Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Best Handheld Car Vacuum For Pet Hair: Black+Decker Furbuster AdvancedClean+ Handheld Vacuum Best Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair On Furniture: Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus Best Value Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair: Black+Decker Dustbuster Cordless Hand Vacuum Best Splurge Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair: Ryobi One+ 18V Cordless Hand Vacuum Best Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair On Amazon: VacLife Handheld Vacuum Best Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair With A Hose: Black+Decker 20V Max Flex Cordless Stick Vacuum Best Wet/Dry Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair: Dewalt 20V Max Wet/Dry Hand Vacuum Best Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair Overall A Lightweight Model That Tackles Hair On Any Surface Amazon Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum Buy From Amazon Dimensions: 16 x 4. 5 x 5 inches | Weight: 3 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Motorized brush tool, upholstery tool, crevice tool Bissell is known for its pet-focused cleaning products, and the Pet Hair Eraser stands out as one of the best handheld vacuums for pet owners.

Powered by a lithium-ion battery that offers up to 17 minutes of cleaning timer per charge. Its three-stage filtration system efficiently captures dust, pet dander and allergens, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment for both you and your pets. Plus, it comes with three attachments—a motorized brush tool to remove embedded pet hair from carpeting, an upholstery tool for furniture and a crevice tool for those hard-to-reach cracks.

The 0. 7-liter dust bin is easy to empty and holds more dirt than other vacuums, and the product is reasonably priced considering its versatility and power. Pros: Motorized brush tool helps remove embedded pet hair from carpeting and furniture Up to 17 minutes of cleaning time per charge The three-stage filtration system keeps allergens from re-entering your home Cons: No bag or docking station to store the attachments Best Handheld Cordless Vacuum For Pet Hair A Powerful Cordless Option That’s Worth The Splurge Dyson Dyson Humdinger Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Buy From Dyson Dimensions: 11.

46 x 3. 39 x 8. 66 inches | Weight: 2.

2 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Hair screw tool, combination crevice tool If suction power is your top priority, the Dyson Humdinger is an excellent choice. While it’s the brand’s only handheld vacuum, its design is similar to Dyson stick vacuums (minus the stick, of course). It features a motor-driven “hair screw” tool that pulls dirt and pet hair from furniture and carpeting, while de-tangling itself as you clean, preventing long pet hair from wrapping around the brushroll.

This battery-powered vacuum can run for up to 25 minutes per charge—one of the longest runtimes among handheld models—and its whole-machine filtration system captures 99. 99% of microscopic particles like dust and pet dander. The vacuum comes with a wall docking station for easy charging, but like most Dyson vacuums, it is on the higher end of the price spectrum.

However, it’s a worthwhile investment for multi-pet households that require regular touch-ups. Pros: Lasts for up to 25 minutes per charge The motorized brush head automatically de-tangles pet hair Whole-machine filtration captures fine particles like pet dander Cons: Notably more expensive than other handheld models Best Handheld Corded Vacuum For Pet Hair An Inexpensive Vacuum With Useful Attachments Chewy Dirt Devil Scorpion+ Corded Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Buy From Chewy Dimensions: 14 x 6 x 8 inches | Weight: 3 pounds | Style: Corded | Attachments: Stair/upholstery tool, crevice tool The Dirt Devil Scorpion+ is a corded model, allowing you to vacuum for as long as needed without worrying about running out of battery power. It features a 15-foot power cord and comes with a convenient pivoting stair and upholstery tool, making it effortless to remove pet hair from both horizontal and vertical surfaces.

This handheld vacuum for pet hair boasts a 0. 45-liter dust bin that is easy to remove and empty. Moreover, its crevice tool is built right into the machine, eliminating the need for separate storage; you simply flip it down when needed.

Pros: Plug-in design lets you clean for as long as needed Brush head rotates to make it easier to clean stairs and furniture More affordable than similarly sized models Cons: The motorized brush head may get tangled if your pets have long hair Best Handheld Car Vacuum For Pet Hair A Motorized Tool With Rubber Bristles To Clean Car Mats Amazon Black+Decker Furbuster AdvancedClean+ Handheld Vacuum Buy From Amazon Dimensions: 15. 8 x 6. 6 x 7.

9 inches | Weight: 2. 6 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Motorized pet brush and extra-long crevice tool If you regularly take your pets in the car, they are likely to track hair and dirt into your car. The Black+Decker Furbuster AdvancedClean+ is a top choice for cleaning floor mats and upholstery, as it features a motorized brush head with rubber bristles to help pull hair out from the fabric.

Additionally, the vacuum features an extra-long crevice tool that’s perfect for getting in between seats and into other nooks and crannies in your car. Although the brand doesn’t specify the exact duration of the vacuum’s battery life per charge, there is a battery indicator that lets you know when you’re running low on power. And when you’re tackling tough jobs, simply switch to the “power boost” setting for additional suction power.

Pros: Motorized brush head has rubber bristles to pull pet hair out of fabric On-board battery indicator lets you know how much power is left A power boost setting for additional suction Cons: The brand doesn’t specify how long this cordless vacuum lasts per charge Best Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair On Furniture A Small Vacuum With A Self-Cleaning Brush Head Amazon Shark Cordless UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus Handheld Vacuum Buy From Amazon Dimensions: 20. 8 x 3. 8 x 4.

3 inches | Weight: 2. 8 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Motorized pet brush, scrubbing tool, crevice tool Pet hair can be quite stubborn when it works its way into furniture upholstery, but the Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus is up to the task. This cordless vacuum is equipped with a motorized pet brush that automatically cleans itself, preventing hair from getting wrapped around the brushroll.

As a result, it effortlessly pulls out pet hair from furniture and other surfaces, and the 0. 45-liter dust cup allows for extended cleaning sessions before needing to be emptied. Apart from the motorized tool, the vacuum includes a crevice tool and scrubbing brush which comes in handy for stuck-on dirt.

The “dirt eject” button makes the emptying process a breeze. However, it’s worth noting that the battery only lasts for 10 minutes per charge, which means the Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus is best suited for quick clean-ups rather than extended cleaning sessions. Pros: Motorized brush head pulls pet hair and dirt out of upholstery Self-cleaning brush won’t get tangled with long pet hair “Dirt eject” button empties the dust cup quickly Cons: Run time of only 10 minutes Charging dock is sold separately Best Value Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair A Popular Lightweight Model For Small Pick-Ups Amazon Black+Decker Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum Buy From Amazon Dimensions: 16.

88 x 5. 24 x 4. 92 inches | Weight: 1.

4 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Upholstery brush and crevice tool The classic Black+Decker dustbuster offers the most bang for your buck, as long as you’re solely picking up light messes. The lightweight design features a small 12. 5-ounce dust cup that is easy to pop off for emptying.

It also includes a non-motorized upholstery brush and crevice tool, as well as a wall-mounted charging dock for easier storage. While it may not be the most effective choice for removing pet hair from furniture and upholstery, it effortlessly picks up dust bunnies or dirt left behind by your pets. Pros: Inexpensive design is useful for small cleaning tasks Lightweight and easy to handle Includes wall-mounted charging dock for storage Cons: The brand doesn’t specify the vacuum’s runtime per charge Best Splurge Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair A Powerful Cordless Vacuum From A Popular Tool Brand The Home Depot Ryobi One+ 18V Cordless Hand Vacuum with Powered Brush Kit Buy From The Home Depot Dimensions: 18.

7 x 4. 6 x 7. 3 inches | Weight: 2.

6 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Charger, mini motorized beater bar, crevice tool, dust brush If you don’t mind spending a little more, the Ryobi One+ 18V Cordless Hand Vacuum is an excellent choice thanks to its powerful 18-volt battery that delivers stronger suction than many other models. Its motorized brush head is particularly effective for removing pet hair from upholstery, and it’s designed to pivot while you clean, ensuring better contact with the surface. Moreover, if hair gets tangled around the brush roll, it can be easily removed for hassle-free de-tangling.

This vacuum also features an LED light, making it easier to clean under car seats or behind couch cushions. The dust bin can be emptied with the push of a button, adding to the convenience of use. It comes with a 2Ah battery and charger, which offers around 15 minutes of run time, but you can swap in any Ryobi One+ 18V battery if you have other tools from the brand.

Pros: Motorized brush head pivots to maintain contact with surfaces On-board LED light lets you tackle tight areas Brush roll can be removed for cleaning and de-tangling Cons: Fairly limited runtime of around 15 minutes per charge Best Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair On Amazon A Best-Selling Model With Rubber Bristles Amazon VacLife Handheld Vacuum Buy From Amazon Dimensions: 17. 4 x 4. 6 x 6.

6 inches | Weight: 3. 54 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Turbo brush, crevice tool, dusting brush This inexpensive model is equipped with a motorized turbo brush, which uses rubber paddles to pull hair out of fabric and upholstery. It also includes a crevice tool and a dusting brush for versatile cleaning, and an LED light lets you see into dark areas.

Plus, the battery can last for up to 18 minutes. Maintaining this vacuum is a breeze thanks to its removable brushroll, which can be easily cleaned in the sink, and its washable filter. Moreover, it is available in three different colors, allowing you to choose one that suits your preferences.

Pros: Inexpensive option that’s eligible for free shipping Motorized brush head has rubber paddles to handle pet hair LED light for cleaning in dark areas Cons: Suction isn’t as powerful as more expensive models Best Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair With A Hose A Unique Design With A Flexible Hose Amazon Black+Decker 20V MAX* Flex Cordless Stick Vacuum Buy From Amazon Dimensions: 14. 88 x 10. 68 x 6.

5 inches | Weight: 3. 2 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Charging Base, 2-in-1 nozzle/flip-up brush, crevice tool, pet hair brush If cleaning hard-to-reach areas is a priority, this Black+Decker model is a more versatile option. Equipped with a 4-foot rubber hose that allows you to clean almost anywhere, this handheld vacuum also comes with a pet hair brush that helps to pull fur off furniture and other fabrics.

Plus, a three-stage filtration system captures dust and allergens, and the dust bin and filter are washable to ensure peak performance. Although it’s powered by a 20-volt battery, the brand doesn’t specify how much run time you can expect per charge. Pros: Four-foot flexible hose lets you vacuum in hard-to-reach areas Includes a pet hair brush for cleaning fabrics Dust bin and filter are washable for easy maintenance Cons: Run time isn’t specified by the brand Best Wet/Dry Handheld Vacuum For Pet Hair A Heavy-Duty Model For All Sorts Of Messes Amazon Dewalt 20V Max Wet/Dry Hand Vacuum Buy From Amazon Dimensions: 17.

7 x 6. 38 x 8. 4 inches | Weight: 4.

5 pounds | Style: Cordless | Attachments: Utility nozzle If your pet often tracks water or mud into the house, the Dewalt Wet/Dry Portable Vacuum is an ideal solution to handle these wet messes. This compact handheld vacuum is capable of cleaning both wet and dry debris, and it features a large half-gallon tank to hold everything you suck up. Moreover, the vacuum is equipped with a wet/dry HEPA filter, ensuring that dust and allergens are effectively trapped inside the unit.

Though the vacuum doesn’t come with many attachments, it offers two options for cleaning up messes: a standard utility nozzle and an extendable rubber hose. The vacuum is designed to run on 20V Max Dewalt battery packs, but it’s important to note that you’ll need to purchase a compatible battery and charger separately to use this vacuum effectively. Pros: Can be used to clean up both dry and wet messes Equipped with a HEPA filter to trap allergens Cons: Battery and charger are sold separately Doesn’t include a specific attachment for pet hair MORE FROM FORBES VETTED The 8 Best Hotels In Milan By Dan Koday Contributor The 34 Best Amazon Deals To Shop Right Now By Jordan Thomas Forbes Staff What To Consider When Buying The Best Handheld Vacuums For Pet Hair Corded vs.

Cordless There are two main styles of handheld vacuums that you’ll see today: corded and cordless models. Both of these styles have benefits and drawbacks, so you’ll need to decide which type will work best in your home. “With a corded vacuum, you don’t have to worry about battery life,” explains Jade Piper, operations manager of Milwaukee-based cleaning service BetterCleans .

“You can clean as long as you need without interruption. Corded vacuums often provide more consistent and powerful suction, ensuring thorough cleaning. ” However, you’ll be limited by the length of the power cord, which can make it challenging to clean areas like cars.

On the other hand, battery-powered vacuums don’t have these limitations. “No cords mean greater freedom of movement, allowing you to reach tight spots or clean outdoor areas more conveniently,” says Piper. “Cordless vacuums are ready to go whenever you need them.

Just grab and clean without any hassle. ” The downside of cordless vacuums is that they have a limited run time and can generally only clean for 20 minutes or less. Type Of Pet Hair You’ll also want to take your pets into account when shopping for a vacuum.

If your animals have long hair, it can easily get wrapped around a standard vacuum brush roll, which means you’ll need to clean it frequently. You may want to look for a self-cleaning or tangle-free brush roll to prevent this from happening. Pets with short hair pose their own set of challenges.

Short hairs can get worked into carpets or upholstery more easily, so you may need a vacuum with a motorized attachment or rubber bristles to help remove fur from your home. Attachments Handheld vacuums often include multiple attachments that allow you to clean different surfaces. For instance, dusting brushes are ideal for window shades or baseboards, while crevice tools get into hard-to-reach areas, such as underneath car seats.

You’ll want to consider your pet’s habits and where you frequently clean to figure out what attachments will be most useful in your home: “If you have a cat who likes to sneak into tight spaces or underneath furniture, accessories like motorized brush rolls, crevice tools or upholstery brushes can help lift pet hair from various surfaces,” says Schulz. Ease Of Use Because handheld vacuums are generally used for quick touch ups around the house, it’s important that they’re convenient to operate. Some features you may want to look for include a docking station to ensure your vacuum is always charged, and washable components for easy maintenance.

Cordless handheld vacuums are often easier to use, as well. You can simply grab the vacuum and start cleaning—without worrying about climbing behind furniture to access an outlet. Do Handheld Vacuums For Pet Hair Get Clogged Easily? “Handheld vacuums do get clogged, more so if they’re frequently used to pick up pet hair,” says Schulz.

Pet hair can clog up vacuum filters, wrap around brush rolls, and even get suck inside the vacuum’s opening, and any of these issues will impact the overall performance of the vacuum. The good news is that you can prevent clogging by cleaning your vacuum often. “Regular maintenance can help prevent this problem,” says Schulz.

“Empty the dustbin frequently, and clean or replace the filters as per the manufacturer’s instructions. ” Which Is The Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaner For Pet Hair? For most households, our top recommendation is the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser , as this battery-powered model offers a great balance of features and value. It can run for up to 17 minutes per charge, and its motorized brush head is able to remove pet hair that’s embedded in upholstery or other surfaces.

However, there are several other models you may want to consider, as well. The Dyson Humdinger has a self-cleaning brush roll that’s ideal for pets with long hair, or the Dirt Devil Scorpion+ has a corded design that lets you clean for as long as needed without running out of battery power. Which Brand Makes The Best Handheld Vacuums For Pet Hair? There are several brands you may want to consider as you look for a handheld pet vacuum.

“Brands like Dyson, Shark, Bissell and Black+Decker are often praised for their efficient pet hair removal capabilities and durable designs,” explains Piper. “However, always read reviews and check user feedback to find the best fit for your specific needs and budget. ” Schulz echoed these recommendations, noting that “Dyson vacuums are known for powerful suction and advanced technology, and Bissell has a dedicated pet line which includes handheld vacuums specifically designed to tackle pet hair and messes.

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