Suction Power
Why it matters: Pets shed a significant amount of hair, and strong suction is essential to remove it from carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces effectively.
What to look for: A vacuum with high suction power (measured in air watts or pascals) ensures that pet hair is picked up efficiently, even from deep within carpet fibers. Many cordless vacuums offer adjustable suction settings, so you can increase power for heavier shedding or dense carpets.
Brush Roll Design
Why it matters: Pet hair can easily get tangled in traditional brush rolls, especially on carpeted surfaces, reducing cleaning efficiency.
What to look for: Look for vacuums with tangle-free or anti-wrap brush rolls, designed specifically to prevent pet hair from getting caught. Some vacuums come with a motorized brush that helps agitate and lift pet hair from different surfaces, making cleaning more effective.
Pet-Specific Attachments
Why it matters: Pet hair often accumulates on furniture, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas that standard vacuum heads might struggle to clean.
What to look for: Many cordless vacuums come with specialized pet attachments, such as a mini motorized tool, upholstery brush, or crevice tool, which are perfect for cleaning pet hair from furniture, cushions, and tight spaces.
Filtration System
Why it matters: Pet hair can trigger allergies, so a good filtration system is important to trap pet dander and dust.
What to look for: Look for vacuums with HEPA filters or high-efficiency filtration systems, which can capture tiny particles like pet dander, dust mites, and allergens. This is especially important for allergy sufferers in multi-pet households.
Battery Life
Why it matters: Multi-pet households may require longer cleaning sessions, especially if there’s a lot of hair to clean up across a larger area.
What to look for: Choose a cordless vacuum cleaner with a long battery life (typically between 20 to 60 minutes, depending on suction mode). If you have a large home or need to clean multiple rooms, a model with a removable, replaceable battery might be a good option, allowing you to extend cleaning time without waiting for the battery to recharge.
Dustbin Capacity
Why it matters: Pet hair can fill up the dustbin quickly, especially if you have multiple pets. A small dustbin might require frequent emptying during cleaning sessions.
What to look for: Look for a vacuum with a larger dustbin capacity or a bagless design that’s easy to empty without releasing dust or pet hair back into the air. Some vacuums have a one-click dustbin release for quick, hygienic disposal.
Weight and Maneuverability
Why it matters: A lighter vacuum will make it easier to maneuver around furniture, stairs, and other obstacles, especially during longer cleaning sessions.
What to look for: Opt for a vacuum that’s lightweight and ergonomically designed to reduce strain on your wrist and arm. Many cordless models are designed to be more flexible and allow you to reach low areas or corners where pet hair tends to accumulate.
Noise Level
Why it matters: Pets can be sensitive to loud noises, so a vacuum that’s too noisy might cause them to become stressed or anxious.
What to look for: Consider the noise level (measured in decibels, dB) of the vacuum. Many newer cordless vacuums are designed with quieter motors, which can be beneficial for homes with pets who might be frightened by loud, high-pitched sounds.
Multi-Surface Performance
Why it matters: Pet hair tends to accumulate on various surfaces, from carpets to hardwood floors and upholstery.
What to look for: Look for a vacuum that offers multi-surface cleaning capabilities. Models that can easily switch between carpet, hardwood, and tile without losing suction will give you greater flexibility in cleaning all areas of your home.
Maintenance and Ease of Cleaning
Why it matters: Pet hair can quickly clog filters and brush rolls, which can reduce the vacuum’s effectiveness over time.
What to look for: Choose a model that’s easy to maintain. This includes washable filters, easy-to-remove brush rolls, and simple dustbin emptying. A vacuum with a self-cleaning brush roll feature can also save time and effort in maintenance.
Price and Warranty
Why it matters: While some higher-end models come with more advanced features, you’ll need to balance cost with your cleaning needs.
What to look for: Choose a vacuum that fits your budget but also offers good performance for pet hair. Warranties are also important, particularly for cordless vacuums, as they are more likely to undergo wear and tear due to frequent use. Look for a warranty that covers motor and battery issues.