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Best Stick Vacuums for Pet Hair in 2023

Cats and dogs are wonderful companions, but let’s face it. Having a pet isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. There are some parts of pet ownership that are not-so-great, such as the never-ending hair these furry creatures leave behind on your carpet and hard floors.

Best Stick Vacuum For Pet Hair


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If you’re having an extra-busy day or need to do some last-minute cleaning before company arrives, you simply don’t have time to pull out your upright vacuum and mop to get rid of all that hair. Thankfully, there is a quicker and lighter alternative to the standard upright – a stick vacuum.

Our Recommended Stick Vacuums for Pet Hair in 2023

5. Shark APEX DuoClean Stick Vacuum (ZS362)

Generously warrantied for a period of 5 years, the 600-watt Shark APEX DuoClean Stick Vacuum boasts a strong 5-amp motor. A switch on top of the handle offers two vacuuming options. One is for carpets, and the other is for hard floors and area rugs.

Shark ZS362 APEX
Shark ZS362 APEX

The 10-pound stick vacuum features swivel steering that lets it make tight corners around obstacles. Its slim 8.5-inch-wide floor nozzle is equipped with a clear brushroll viewer and a pair of running LED headlights. Shark’s APEX DuoClean’s removable cup holds 0.75 quarts of debris. The stick vacuum’s runtime is limitless since it’s a corded model. The power cord is extra-long, measuring 30 feet.

Shark APEX DuoClean Stick Vacuum (ZS362) Review

Shark ZS360 APEX Corded Stick Vacuum with...
  • DUOCLEAN TECHNOLOGY: a dual-brushroll system designed to deep-clean carpets and directly...
  • SELF-CLEANING BRUSHROLL: powerful pet hair pickup and no more hair wrap.

4. Bissell PowerGlide Pet Slim Corded Vacuum 3070

If you’re searching for a stick vacuum that’s lightweight yet powerful, the Bissell PowerGlide 3070 is an excellent choice. It sports a 4.2-amp motor that delivers high-powered suction to remove ultrafine and large debris for nearly any surface.

With a press of a button, you can turn this corded stick vac into a handheld unit to vacuum dust out of hard-to-reach areas using one of the three tools—the Pet TurboEraser Tool being the best for pet hair. The floorhead is mostly self-cleaning, which is a major upside for pet owners, though long strands of hair may tangle on the brush roll. What’s fantastic about this stick vac is that users have the option to turn the brush roll on and off.

BISSELL PowerGlide Pet Slim Corded Vacuum,...
  • EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission...
  • LIGHTWEIGHT WITH POWERFUL SUCTION. Weighs less than 10 pounds, and picks up pet hair with...

3. Shark IZ163H Pet Plus Cordless Stick Vacuum

The IZ163H Pet Plus from Shark is an amazing cordless stick vacuum for hair and large debris. It packs a beefy battery that supplies up to 40 minutes of continuous cleaning, so you can clean multiple rooms or your entire home on a single charge.

It has a self-cleaning brush roll that reduces the risk of tangling, though long strands of hair may prove to be too much of a challenge. The IZ163H comes with a unique MultiFlex wand, which bends slightly to give users maximum control when vacuuming underneath furniture. Pet owners will also love how it comes with a HEPA filter and is completely allergen-sealed to prevent leakage.

Shark IZ163H Pet Plus Cordless Stick Vacuum...
  • POWERFUL SUCTION: For everyday messes and high-traffic areas.
  • UP TO 40 MINUTES OF RUNTIME: Removable battery with up to 40 minutes of runtime, measured...

2. Shark IZ363HT Anti-Allergen Pet Power Cordless Stick Vacuum

The Shark IZ363HT is an entirely unique cordless stick vac. Firstly, it comes with a massive battery that offers 50 minutes of cleaning on standard power per charge. In terms of cleaning power, you can rely on the HyperVelocity Accelerated Motor to draw in huge quantities of air, simplifying the task of loosening and lifting debris from high-pile carpeting.

Plus, the IZ363HT uses a Powerfins Brush Roll, which consists of silicone flaps that move hair tangles to the side of the brush for easier self-cleaning. Like any good cordless stick vac, this unit converts with a press of a button to remove the wand. The Pet Multi-Tool will become your go-to attachment for getting rid of pet hair from upholstery and carpeted steps.

Shark IZ363HT Anti-Allergen Pet Power...
  • HYPERVELOCITY ACCELERATED SUCTION: Provides incredible cleaning performance in an...
  • 50 MINUTES OF RUNTIME: Removable battery with up to 50 minutes of runtime measured at the...

1. Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum

Dyson’s high-tech V11 Animal is equipped with a digital motor that generates three types of suction – boost, eco and auto. On auto mode, an integrated sensor detects and adjusts the suction speed depending on the floor you’re vacuuming. A straight-line air path decreases the likelihood of clogs, and acoustic baffles dampen the motor’s sound output.

Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum

Thanks to the high-torque floor head’s slim size and low profile, it’s easy to vacuum in tight spots and underneath furniture. The 9.8-inch-wide head is affixed with a brushroll made to clean carpets with its nylon bristles and bare floors with its carbon-fiber filaments.

On the end of the 7-pound V11’s ergonomic handle, there is a helpful, sleek LED display screen. Via the screen, you can check the battery’s current charge level. To deliver maintenance messages such as air-path and filter checks to the screen, a pressure sensor detects clogs and media saturation. You can even change the message’s language.

Dyson has you covered for above-floor cleaning chores. When you take off the floor head to use the V11 Animal as a handheld vacuum, you can attack stuck-on dirt with the scrub-brush tool or reach into narrow spots with the crevice wand. To pull and remove pet hair, there is a brush with a motorized brushroll.

Two technologies stop allergens from becoming airborne. The 0.9-liter dirt cup’s ejector pushes debris out of the cup with more force than a push-button door opener. There’s also a rinsable HEPA filter that captures all but 0.03 percent of microscopic particles. Plus, 14 cyclones keep dust from clogging the V11 Animal.

A seven-cell lithium-ion battery lasts 30 minutes on auto mode, 60 minutes on eco mode and a total of 15 minutes on boost mode. Depending on the level of battery depletion, it can take up to 4.5 hours to recharge. The V11 Animal comes with a wall-mounted dock to help you keep the stick vacuum organized.

Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum Review

Dyson V11 Animal Cordless Vacuum Cleaner,...
  • Dyson's most intelligent, powerful cordless vacuum. Twice the suction of any cordless...
  • Dyson technology helps create a cleaner, healthier home - Our vacuums and purifiers are...

Stick Vacuum Buyer’s Guide

When it involves anything with pet care, you only want the best. To get the best stick vacuum that money can buy, you need to have a firm grasp of what features are available. From suction to accessories, this guide describes the most important features a stick vac, so you can choose the right vacuum cleaner for your home.

Stick Vacuum Suction

A stick vacuum’s suction strength can make or break its efficiency. Pay close attention to the stick vacuum’s specs. The vacuum’s air watts and pascals will give you an idea of how powerful it is. If you have different types of flooring throughout your house, consider getting a stick vac with adjustable suction.

Best CORDLESS Vacuum for Pet Hair

Brushroll

The brushroll configuration varies widely from one stick vac to the next. Some don’t have a brushroll while others come with more than one. The materials used to make the brush roll also differs and may include rubber, nylon and fiber filament. Many stick vacuums that have a brushroll allow you to turn the brush on and off. Regardless of the type of brushroll, it should be easily accessible for cleaning.

Maneuverability

From its handle to its weight, there are several factors that determine how easy it is to maneuver a stick vacuum. The handle should be ergonomically designed to give you a comfortable yet secure grip, and steer clear of stick vacuums that weigh over 10 pounds – They’re simply too heavy. Features such as headlights, adjustable nozzle height, and a swiveling head will also help you move the vacuum.

Best Cordless Vacuum for Pet Hair

Stick Vacuum Dual Purpose

If you want to vacuum more than just your floor, a stick-handheld combo vac is exactly what you need. However, make sure the handheld vacuum is quick and easy to remove. Some handhelds have a trigger button that you must hold down while others have a one-touch button. If you plan to use the handheld for extended cleaning sessions, a one-touch button is recommended. However, a trigger button cuts down on wasted battery power.

Power Source

There are two types of stick vacuums – corded and cordless. If you buy a corded model, you’ll need one with a power cord that measures at least 15 feet in length to save the time and aggravation that comes along with switching electrical outlets. If a cordless stick vac is what you want, opt for one that offers a run time of 20 minutes or more.

Best Stick Vacuum For Dog Hair

Stick Vacuum Filtration

Although we’ve already touched on the differences between a standard and a HEPA filter, there is more to consider when it comes to filtration. Some stick vacs contain a pre-filter, which prevents large particles from wearing out the main filter prematurely. A stick vacuum that generates cyclonic suction boosts a filter’s efficiency, and you can even find some vacuums that come with extras like a scented tablet that wipes out pet-related odors.

Dirt Containment

Whether you go the bag or bagless route, the name of the game is size. The larger the container, the fewer times you have to dump its contents. A dirt capacity of 0.5 liters or more should be sufficient. For bagless stick vacuums, look for ones with a container that opens from the bottom, which reduces dust emissions.

Best Stick Vacuum For Cat Hair

Stick Vacuum Accessories

The number of accessories included with a vacuum may range from one to five or more. Hoses and extension wands offer a long reach for above-floor cleaning. Brushes are great for cleaning hard surfaces like tables and mantles, and crevice tools are well-adept at getting in between couch cushions. Some stick vacs even come with a motorized tool for upholstery cleaning, and many models offer some sort of storage solution such as an on-board caddy or a wall mount.

Stick Vacuum FAQs

How Do Stick Vacuums Differ From Other Types of Vacuum Cleaners?

In a way, stick vacuums are a hybrid between a handheld vacuum and an upright vacuum They are maneuverable like handhelds, yet they are more powerful. However, they aren’t quite as powerful as uprights, making them better suited for light-duty chores. Compared to robotic vacuums, stick vacuums are entirely different as these automated vacuum cleaners do the work themselves. As far as canister vacuums go, stick vacuums are much lighter.

When stick vacuums were first made available to the public, they were limited to cleaning floors only. Today, stick vacs are versatile. Many of these vacuum cleaners come with attachments for detailed cleaning, and there are even some with a detachable handheld or canister that you can use for above-floor cleaning chores.

Best Cordless Stick Vacuums for Pet Hair

How Do Stick Vacuums Perform on Hard Floors?

If you’re tired of that old broomstick in your closet, you’re in luck. A stick vacuum can replace your broom and save your arms from becoming exhausted by that back-and-forth sweeping motion. Most stick vacs are equipped with non-scratching wheels that won’t leave marks on delicate hardwoods or tile.

A lot of stick vacuums also have a brush roll. Since a rolling brush tends to scatter lightweight debris, look for a stick vac with a brushroll that you can turn on and off. If you only have hard floors in your house, there are some stick vacuums that don’t have a brushroll at all.

However, if you choose to use a stick vac with a brushroll on your hard floors, make sure the bristles are soft enough as to not scratch them.

Best Cordless Vacuum for Pet Hair

Are Stick Vacuums Powerful Enough to Use on Carpets?

Although their suction isn’t as powerful as that of upright vacuums, stick vacuums are excellent at touching up carpets. Since stick vacs are lightweight, you don’t have to worry about wheel marks on your carpet, and their smaller size means that they fit easily under most low-sitting sofas.

If you have carpet in your home, a brush roll is a must. Otherwise, a lot of pet hair will get left behind. It also helps if the brushroll has non-tangling bristles. Ideally, you’ll want to get a stick vac that produces cyclonic suction to prevent the filter from clogging.

Will a HEPA Filter Help?

Along with pet hair comes dander. A high-efficiency particulate air, or HEPA, filter is designed to trap more allergens than a standard one. In comparison to the 80 to 90 percent capturing rate of standard filters, HEPA filters trap a whopping 99.97 percent of dander, pollen, dust and other allergens.

In addition, HEPA filters are able to trap smaller particles than standard ones. With a standard filter, particles that measure less than 1 micron can get through and be released into the air. However, a HEPA filter captures particles as small as 0.3 microns. If you suffer from allergies, you’ll appreciate the superior performance of a HEPA filter.

Best Pet Hair Vacuums

Do Stick Vacuums Have a Bag or a Bagless Container?

Manufacturers of stick vacuums understand that the people who purchase them do so to have a more convenient way to vacuum. When it comes to convenience, a bagless vacuum is the way to go. These stick vacuums are easier to empty, and you don’t have to spend money on replacement bags.

Even though most stick vacuums are bagless, there are some models that use a bag to collect dirt. The benefit to these stick vacuums is that less dirt is released into the air when you change the bag. To combat this issue in bagless models, many manufacturers design their vacuum cleaners’ bagless canister to empty from the bottom.

Best Vacuums for Pet Hair

Should I Buy a Stick Vacuum With a Cord or a Battery?

There are pros and cons to corded stick vacs as well as cordless ones. Since a corded stick vacuum gets power from your home’s electrical system, you can use it as long as you want. However, corded vacuums can only reach as far as their cord lets them, and the power cord can be a tripping hazard.

Cordless stick vacs can reach as far as you need them to, and you don’t have to deal with switching electrical outlets while you clean. However, you can only use them for a certain amount of time before you need to recharge the battery.

What Kind of Battery Does It Use?

Older cordless stick vacuums were often equipped with rechargeable lead-acid batteries. These batteries were preferred by manufacturers because of their low cost.

However, they came with a downside for consumers – their bulky weight. Now that lighter batteries with a higher watt-hour capacity have become commonplace in vacuums, people have options.

The three types of rechargeable batteries you’ll see in today’s stick vacs include nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride and lithium-ion. However, lithium-ion batteries are the gold-standard.

Nickel-Cadmium Batteries

Nickel-cadmium batteries are not as prevalent in the vacuum cleaner market compared to nickel-metal and lithium-ion because nickel-cadmium batteries contain wet cells. With time, the fluid depletes, and the battery ceases to work. Plus, cadmium is considered a toxin.

They also suffer from the dreaded lazy battery effect. This means that after numerous charges when the battery is partially discharged, the battery loses its energy capacity, which equates to less running time for the vacuum.

However, they do have a better discharge current than their nickel-metal counterparts.

Stick Vacuums Corded

Are Nickel-Metal Hydride Batteries Any Good?

As opposed to nickel-cadmium, manufacturers prefer to put nickel-metal hydride batteries in their stick vacuums. These batteries cost less than lithium-ion batteries, and they don’t have cadmium inside of them.

They also last longer between charges than the nickel-cadmium variety.

Plus, they are not as prone, but still not immune, to the battery memory effect. However, their discharge current is not as high as nickel-cadmium batteries.

Another downside is the lack of steady suction when used in vacuum cleaners. While the suction may start off strong, it will decrease right along with the battery’s charge. In turn, the working time gets shortchanged.

What about Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Finally, there are cordless stick vacs that run off lithium-ion batteries. In terms of working time and lifespan, lithium-ion batteries give you more operating minutes and longer use throughout their life than nickel-cadmium or nickel-metal hydride batteries.

Like nickel-cadmium batteries, lithium-ion batteries have a high discharge current, but they don’t suffer from the same memory effect.

In addition, these batteries weigh less. You also don’t have to worry about poor suction strength as the battery level drains. However, their efficiency and longevity come at a higher cost for manufacturers, and this cost is reflected in the price of stick vacuums that come with a lithium-ion battery.

Corded Vacuums Review


Our Recommended Stick Vacuums

Our Pick The Eureka NEC222 HyperClean is a versatile and rather useful convertible stick vacuum. It can be used as the main vacuum in smaller homes and apartments, or as a second vacuum cleaner in large homes and apartments.

Lightweight The Shark IZ362H is a lightweight stick vacuum. It's easy to maneuver, and has a bagless design that's easy to maintain and requires less maintenance costs.

Corded What sets this corded stick vacuum apart from so many others is the fact that it is, above all else, very powerful and very effective. The Eureka Flash offers more than enough vacuuming power for just about every vacuuming task..

Best of the Best The Dyson V11 Torque Drive is smarter and more efficient than its predecessors. The suction power automatically adjusts based on floor type—more power for carpets and less for smooth surfaces.

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Last Update: 2024-03-18 | Affiliate links/Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

About the author

Hi I’m Alex, founder of HouseholdMe.com and I’d like to say thank you for dropping by. Like most of you, the first thing I look at before buying something online is reviews or buying guides. By reading what other people say will help me gauge whether or not a product is good or not.  I am trying to help people find answers, solve problems, and get inspired.

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