7 Best Handheld Vacuums for Pet Hair – Fix the Problem Immediately

The review of the best handheld vacuums for pet hair with their key features, pros and cons.
By
Daniel
Daniel
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Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more
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Reviewed By
Tom
Tom
Tom
Expert Consultant
Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more
Last updated: August 11, 2023
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On average, a household dog can shed up to 500 hairs per day. 250 hairs per day, if you are a “happy” cat owner. Given most allergies are triggered by pet hair (not to mention your messy-looking carpets and furniture upholstery) – the best handheld vacuum for pet hair is a must.

We’ve done the research among 30 products and selected 7 best of the best. Our Editor’s Choice is BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser 2390A. We considered suction power as it determines the effectiveness of vacuuming and included the models that are powerful enough to cope with pet hair on upholstery. Dustbin capacity also matters as you don’t want to stop in the middle of vacuuming to empty it. Choose devices with at least 0.5 l capacity to avoid frequent emptying. Runtime is also crucial, as you don’t want your vacuum to die in the middle of cleaning. Finally, we thought about attachments, as they allow you to clean different surfaces and reach tight spaces.

Quick Summary

  • Editor’s Choice: BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser 2390A
    "Powerful suction, 3 levels of filtration in addition to 3 attachments make this handheld vacuum the best choice for those who struggle with pet hair in their house"
  • Best for Furniture and Couches: Shark CH951
    "This stylish handheld vacuum boasts 2 cyclonic air streams, 0.7 l dustbin, and a 2-year limited warranty"
  • Best Cordless: BLACK+DECKER HHVK515JP07
    "This is a cordless handheld vacuum that offers hands-free mess removal, a reusable filter, and excellent maneuverability"
  • Best for Stairs and Pet Hair: VacLife H-116
    "This handheld vacuum can tackle any surface you throw at: a strong 35000rpm motor, LED light, 2 attachments for crevices and carpets/upholstery, and a dual filtration system with HEPA filter"
  • Best Run Time: Belife BVC-V11
    "This cordless vacuum impresses with its up to 50 min run time, 25000Pa max suction, 6-level filtration, and a 180° adjustable brush head with LED light"
  • "This little fellow has a corded design and excellent performance: its rubber nozzle effectively works on different surfaces, while a cyclonic cleaning system and multi-layer filtration keep your house free of pet hair and dirt"
  • "Last but not least is the affordable yet capable handheld vacuum; it features up to 30 min run time, powerful 8000Pa suction, and reusable HEPA filter"

Top 7 Handheld Vacuums for Pet Hair Review 2024

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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 5502 people in the past 30 days
9.9
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.7
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.8
9.9
1
Editor’s Choice

BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser 2390A

Features
  • Dustbin capacity: 0.7 l
  • Suction power: not specified
  • Power: 14V
  • Battery life: up to 17 min
  • Charging time: not specified
  • Noise level: 70 dB
  • Dimensions: 16 x 4.5 x 5 inches
  • Weight: 3 lbs.

The Bissell 2390A is our Editor’s Choice because with this handheld vacuum you can easily and quickly get rid of pet hair. With powerful suction and three different attachments, it’s perfect for getting into tight spaces and cleaning up all the pet hair your lovable furry friend leaves on different surfaces. The cordless design and lightweight construction make it easy to maneuver around your home, while great suction means it can stand up to even the most stubborn pet hair. With three levels of filtration, this handheld vacuum cleaner will keep allergens out of the air with ease.

The Bissel Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Hand Vacuum is an upgrade from the standard Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum, also from Bissel. Both are equipped with 14.4 voltage, a motorized brush, crevice, and upholstery tool. However, the Bissell 2390A has a faster run time and is designed with triple level filtration, which helps you improve your cleaning performance.

    What are our favorite features?
  • Easy-to-use;
  • Great suction;
  • 3 levels of filtration for better cleaning performance;
  • 3 attachments for hard-to-reach areas: motorized brush, upholstery brush, and crevice tool;
  • 1-year limited warranty;
  • Lightweight;
  • Cordless design;
  • Durable construction.
    What could be better?
  • Some buyers note that charging takes too long;
  • The filter is not reusable.
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6461 people in the past 30 days
9.8
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.5
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.5
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.6
9.8
2
Best for Furniture and Couches

Shark CH951

Features
  • Dustbin capacity: 0.7 l
  • Suction power: not specified
  • Power: 10.8V
  • Battery life: not specified
  • Charging time: 6 hours
  • Noise level: 80 dB
  • Dimensions: 20.8 x 3.8 x 4.3 inches
  • Weight: 2.8 lbs.

The Shark CH951 is a cordless, lightweight vacuum cleaner that’s ideal for cleaning up pet hair on furniture and couches. It has 2 cyclonic air streams with powerful suction to remove dirt, pet hair, and debris even from the most difficult areas. The dustbin capacity is 0.7 liters and it is easy to empty with a press of a button when you’ve finished vacuuming. The filter is washable and the brushroll is self-cleaning, which means you don’t have to worry about cleaning it yourself.

If you’re considering the Shark CH951, you can compare it to the CH901. Both are cordless handheld vacuums, but the CH951 has higher wattage and power to take care of your pet hair cleaning. It is also designed with a self-cleaning brushroll, which removes all the pet hair wrap as you clean with the vacuum. You can attach and detach it at will.

    What makes it special?
  • 2 cyclonic air streams for ultra-powerful suction;
  • Lightweight and cordless;
  • Removes pet hair from furniture and upholstery;
  • Washable filter;
  • Hands-free mess removal;
  • 2-year limited warranty;
  • Self-cleaning brushroll.
    What cons did we find?
  • Pricey;
  • Many buyers would like to get a charging station with the device.
Also Product Ranking:
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 7151 people in the past 30 days
9.7
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.4
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.7
3
Best Cordless

BLACK+DECKER HHVK515JP07

Features
  • Dustbin capacity: 0.75 l
  • Suction power: not specified
  • Power: 20V
  • Battery life: up to 20 min
  • Charging time: not specified
  • Noise level: not specified
  • Dimensions: 6.3 x 3.15 x 2.56 inches
  • Weight: 2.6 lbs.

With the BLACK+DECKER HHVK515JP07 you can clean up pet hair in a snap. It is lightweight, weighing only 2.6 lbs., and features a comfortable grip handle that allows you to easily maneuver it around the house. Its cordless design means no wires or cables to get in the way of your cleaning! The dustbin has a 0.75 l capacity and easy disposal of debris. Its powerful suction provides superior performance on carpets, hard floors, and upholstery, making it ideal for quick cleanups around the home.

You can compare the HHVK515JP07 to the BDH2020FL, also from BLACK+DECKER. Both cordless handheld vacuums are ideal for pet hair, with a 20 voltage. The HHVK515JP07 vacuum model is fitted with a motorized brush head, one-touch easy empty dustbin, and an extra-long crevice tool, which you cannot find in the BDH2020FL. Although it is a bit heavier, it makes it easy to reach corners and get rid of pet hair efficiently.

    What makes it special?
  • Hands-free mess removal;
  • Multi-surface cleaning;
  • Washable filter;
  • Excellent maneuverability;
  • Powerful suction;
  • Cordless design;
  • Lightweight.
    What cons did we find?
  • Pricey;
  • Some buyers note that the plastic looks cheap.
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Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 3743 people in the past 30 days
9.6
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.1
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.3
9.6
4
Best for Stairs and Pet Hair

VacLife H-116

Features
  • Dustbin capacity: not specified
  • Suction power: not specified
  • Power: not specified
  • Battery life: 18-20 min
  • Charging time: 2.5-3 hours
  • Noise level: not specified
  • Dimensions: 17.4 x 4.61 x 6.61 inches
  • Weight: 3.57 lbs.

The VacLife H-116 is a cordless handheld vacuum that is perfect for cleaning up pet hair on stairs, furniture, and other surfaces. With its powerful 35000 rpm motor and detachable silicone roller, it makes quick work of even the most stubborn pet hair. The VacLife H-116 comes with 2 attachments: a crevice tool for tight spaces and a brush attachment for carpets and upholstery. Its dual filtration system with HEPA filter ensures that your surfaces are clean and free of allergens.

The VacLife H-116 is quite similar to the BLACK+DECKER HHVK515JP07, which is number three on our list. Both are designed with features that allow you to reach different corners when cleaning. They are also designed with a one-click dust cup release for getting rid of trash easily. However, the H-116 stands out with its dual filtration system, which is consisting of a washable HEPA filter and prefilter. The HEPA filter stops dust from getting into the motor, increasing durability.

    What do we love it for?
  • Cordless design;
  • Detachable and washable silicone roller;
  • Strong 35000rpm motor;
  • LED light;
  • Versatility with 2 attachments for crevices and carpets/upholstery;
  • Dual filtration system with HEPA filter;
  • Quick charging.
    What were we disappointed with?
  • A little bit heavy.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 2000 people in the past 30 days
9.5
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.2
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.5
5
Best Run Time

Belife BVC-V11

Features
  • Dustbin capacity: 0.7 l
  • Suction power: up to 25000Pa
  • Power: 240V
  • Battery life: up to 50 min
  • Charging time: 4-5 hours
  • Noise level: 65 dB
  • Dimensions: 9.1 x 9 x 43.7 inches
  • Weight: 8.5 lbs.

Save time cleaning with Belife BVC-V11. Whether it’s pet hair, dust, or debris, this powerful vacuum can take care of it quickly and easily. With an impressive 50 min run time and powerful suction, it has the muscle to get the job done. Its cordless design provides easy, hassle-free use, while the touch screen and LED display make it easy to navigate. The 180° adjustable brush head makes it easy to clean tight spaces. And with the LED light, you can see every nook and cranny.

When it comes to convenience, the Belife BVC-V11 can be compared to the Shark CH951. Both are easy to use, but the CH951 features a one-button operation. On the other hand, the Belife BVC-V11 offers more convenience, with a touch screen and LED control panel. You can adjust the vacuum power and monitor the status while cleaning. The LED shows you the battery level, brush stuck alert, suction performance, and suction blockage alert.

    What makes it stand out?
  • Cordless design;
  • Super powerful suction;
  • Long battery life;
  • Touch screen and LED display;
  • Strong 90000rpm motor;
  • Multiple brush heads;
  • 6-level filtration for efficient cleaning;
  • 180° adjustable brush head with LED light;
  • Washable filter;
  • Hands-free mess removal;
  • 1-year warranty.
    Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
  • Not compact.
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6174 people in the past 30 days
9.4
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
9.2
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
9.1
Features & Benefits
Product Review
9.1
9.4
Features
  • Dustbin capacity: 0.78 l
  • Suction power: not specified
  • Power: 16V
  • Battery life: not specified
  • Charging time:
  • Noise level: not specified
  • Dimensions: 10 x 5 x 8 inches
  • Weight: 5 lbs.

If you’re a pet owner, then you know how much hair and dirt your furry friend can leave behind. Many vacuums are bulky, but not the Bissell 33A1! It is corded, so you don’t have to worry it runs out of power. This compact vacuum is easy to maneuver around furniture and stairs. The powerful suction will pick up all of your pet’s loose hair from carpets and upholstery. And its multi-layer filtration system traps even the smallest particles of dirt and debris.

The Bissel 33A1 can be compared to the Bissell 1782, both of which are handheld pet hair erasers. Although the 33A1 must be operated with a power cord, it is designed with a specialized rubber nozzle that pulls out dirt on upholstery and stairs and attracts pet hair. It is also designed with a multi-layer filtration system using cyclonic cleaning.

    What makes it special?
  • 16 ft. cord and compact design;
  • The rubber nozzle is effective on both hard floor and upholstery;
  • Cyclonic cleaning system;
  • Multi-layer filtration;
  • Reasonable price;
  • 1-year warranty;
  • Easy-to-use.
    What cons did we find?
  • A little bit heavy;
  • Some buyers note that the air vents on the side blow straight out which makes vacuuming more difficult.
Also Product Ranking:
?
Consumer Engagement
Chosen by 6011 people in the past 30 days
9.1
Customer Feedback
Customer Feedback
8.6
Brand Reputation
Based onweb analytics
8.6
Features & Benefits
Product Review
8.8
9.1
Features
  • Dustbin capacity: 0.4 l
  • Suction power: 8000Pa
  • Power: not specified
  • Battery life: up to 30 min
  • Charging time: 3-4 hours
  • Noise level: 78 dB
  • Dimensions: 16.5 x 6.22 x 5.39 inches
  • Weight: 1.92 lbs.

Got a pet that leaves hair all over the house? The Portutif Handheld Vacuum has you covered! You’ll love how affordable and powerful this handheld vacuum is: with 8000Pa of suction power, it easily lifts pet hair off furniture, stairs, and more. Plus, the cordless design makes it easy to move around. The rechargeable battery allows you to clean for up to 30 minutes without having to plug in. It also comes with a crevice nozzle, large caliber nozzle, and brush attachments so you can easily reach all those hard-to-reach places!

The Portuif Handheld Vacuum is designed with a crevice nozzle for cleaning narrow spaces, like the VacLife H-116. But, it goes the extra mile as it is fitted with a brush nozzle for cleaning pet hair on carpets and the air outlets on cars. It can also be used to clean large food chunks and particles and is fitted with a storage bag so you don’t lose any items.

    Why is it special?
  • Budget-friendly;
  • Cordless and lightweight;
  • Versatile use with crevice nozzle, large caliber nozzle, and brush attachments;
  • Reusable and washable HEPA filter;
  • Easy operation;
  • Wall mountable charger;
  • 1-year warranty.
    What are the flaws?
  • The dustbin can be small for big jobs.

Things to Consider

If you have a pet, you certainly have to deal with pet hair on your furniture, clothing, or in your car. Removing pet hair can be a challenge, but a handheld vacuum can make the task much easier. Handheld vacuums for pet hair are perfect for small cleanups or spot cleaning. They are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for cleaning up after your pet.

Comparing Handheld Vacuums for Pet Hair and Other Vacuums

When it comes to cleaning up pet hair, not all vacuums are created equal. Upright vacuums and canister vacuums are great for general cleaning, but they are not always the best choice for dealing with pet hair. These types of vacuums can be difficult to maneuver around furniture and hard-to-reach areas, and they often lack the suction power needed to effectively remove pet hair from carpets and upholstery.

7 Best Handheld Vacuums for Pet Hair – Fix the Problem Immediately
The benefits of handheld vacuums for pet hair over regular vacuums come down to portability and convenience. Handheld vacuums are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around your home or take with you on the go.

Handheld vacuums are a much better choice for cleaning up pet hair. These devices are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them perfect for spot cleaning. You can use it on your furniture, in your car, or anywhere else you might find pet hair.

Many handheld vacuums come with special attachments that make cleaning up pet hair even easier. These attachments can help loosen pet hair from carpets and upholstery, making it easier for the vacuum to pick up. Many handheld vacuums also come with a crevice tool that can help you reach tight spaces and corners.

Corded or Cordless

When it comes to handheld vacuums for pet hair, you have two main choices: corded or cordless.

Corded handheld vacuums are powerful and will never run out of battery, but they can be difficult to maneuver. Cordless handheld vacuums are much more portable, but they might not have the same suction power as a corded vacuum.

If you decide to go with a cordless handheld vacuum, make sure to choose one with long battery life. You don’t want to be in the middle of cleaning and have your vacuum die on you.

The best way to choose between a corded and cordless handheld vacuum for pet hair is to decide what’s more important to you: portability or power. If you need a powerful vacuum that can handle a lot of pet hair, go with a corded model. If you want something that’s more portable and easy to maneuver, go with a cordless model.

Important Features

When it comes to cleaning up pet hair, handheld vacuums can be a godsend. They are lightweight, so you can take them anywhere. They are also powerful enough to pick up pet hair, dander, and dirt. If you have a pet, or if you suffer from allergies to pet dander, a handheld vacuum can be a great way to keep your home clean and dust-free. This guide will help you choose the best handheld vacuum for your needs.

Suction power

Suction power is an important factor to consider when choosing a handheld vacuum for pet hair because it determines how well the vacuum can pick up pet hair and other debris. Some handheld vacuums have more suction power than others, making them better at picking up pet hair.

Suction power is measured in Pascal and can be about 1000-8000Pa on handheld vacuums.

If you have a lot of pet hair to clean up, or if you have pets with long fur, you’ll need a handheld vacuum with good suction power. If you have shorter-haired pets, you can get away with a handheld vacuum that has less suction power.

What pets you have

The kind of pet you have will also play a role in what type of handheld vacuum you need to buy. If you have a dog with short hair, you can get away with a less powerful vacuum. If you have a cat with long hair, you’ll need a more powerful vacuum that can handle the fur, you may also be interested in the best vacuum for cat litter. If you have multiple pets, you may want to choose a handheld vacuum that has multiple power settings so you can adjust the suction depending on the type of pet hair you are cleaning up.

Battery life

Battery life is another important factor to consider when choosing a handheld vacuum for pet hair. If you have a cordless model, you’ll need to know how long the battery will last before it needs to be recharged. Some cordless vacuums have a shorter run time than others, so if you have a big area to cover, you’ll want to choose among the best cordless vacuums for pet hair.

It is important to note that run time can vary depending on the power setting you are using.

Most cordless handheld vacuums will run for about 20 minutes before they need to be recharged.

Dustbin capacity

Dustbin capacity is another factor to consider when choosing a handheld vacuum for pet hair. If you have a lot of pet hair to clean up, you’ll need a model with a large dustbin of about 0.5 liters in capacity.

A larger dustbin means you won’t have to empty it as often, which can save you time in the long run.

Some handheld vacuums have dustbins that can be emptied without having to touch the dirt, which can be helpful if you have allergies to pet dander.

Filtration

Filtration is an important consideration if you have allergies to pet dander.

If you have severe allergies, you may want to choose a model with a sealed HEPA filter to ensure that all of the allergens are trapped inside the vacuum. You can find a perfect match among the best vacuums for allergies.

The type of filter is another factor to consider when choosing a handheld vacuum for pet hair. Some filters are washable, while others need to be replaced. If you have pets with long fur, you’ll need to choose a model with a filter that can be washed so you don’t have to replace it as often.

Attachments

7 Best Handheld Vacuums for Pet Hair – Fix the Problem Immediately
The attachments give you more versatility when cleaning with a handheld vacuum. These attachments usually have bristles that help to loosen and lift the hair from surfaces.

Attachments are another consideration when choosing a handheld vacuum for pet hair. Some models come with a crevice tool for hard-to-reach areas. If you have pets that like to sleep on your furniture, you may want to choose a model with an upholstery attachment to help you clean their fur off your couch or chairs. If you have a lot of pet hair to clean, you’ll want to choose a model that comes with multiple attachments so you can tackle the job from all angles. Brushrolls are also a good feature to look for in a handheld vacuum for pet hair. A brushroll can help loosen pet hair from carpets and upholstery, making it easier to vacuum up.

Budget

Budget is always a consideration when choosing any type of vacuum, and handheld vacuums are no exception. The price varies depending on the features and quality of the vacuum. In general, you can expect to pay between $30 and $100 for a handheld vacuum.

Some higher-end models can cost more, but they usually have additional features that justify the price tag.

There are many inexpensive handheld vacuums on the market, but they may not have the same suction power or run time as more expensive models. If you have a lot of pet hair to clean up, or if you have pets with long fur, you may want to invest in a more expensive handheld vacuum that can handle the job.

Weight and size

Weight and size are also important factors to consider when choosing a handheld vacuum for pet hair. If you have a lot of pet hair to clean up or going to vacuum your car, you’ll want a lightweight and portable vacuum so you can easily carry it anywhere you need it. If you only have a few pets, or if you don’t have much pet hair to clean up, you can get away with a heavier vacuum.

FAQ

Can I vacuum my pet with a handheld vacuum?

You should not vacuum your pet with a handheld vacuum. The suction can be too strong and injure your pet. If you need to clean your pet, you should use a brush or comb to remove the fur.

What else can I do to reduce pet hair in my home?

In addition to vacuuming, there are a few other things you can do to reduce pet hair in your home. You should groom your pets regularly to help reduce shedding. You can also invest in furniture covers and washable rugs that are easy to clean. Finally, you can vacuum your house more often to help keep the pet hair at bay.

Do handheld vacuums for pet hair remove allergens?

Many handheld vacuums come with HEPA filtration, which can trap allergens and other tiny particles. If you have severe allergies, you may want to choose a model with a sealed HEPA filter to ensure that all of the allergens are trapped inside the vacuum.

Our verdict

The Bissell 2390A is perfect for removing pet hair from furniture, stairs, and other hard-to-reach areas. It has a 0.7-liter dustbin capacity and can run for up to 17 minutes. It features three levels of filtration, which ensures that it picks up even the smallest particles of dirt and dust.

Two powerful air streams of Shark CH951 work together to remove pet hair from furniture and couches with ease! Simply glide the vacuum over the surface and watch as it sucks up all that pesky fur. With a lightweight design and cordless operation, cleaning has never been easier!

Our third best handheld vacuum for pet hair is BLACK+DECKER HHVK515JP07. Lightweight and maneuverable, this device is perfect for quick cleanups. The powerful suction will pick up dirt, dust, and pet hair from hard floors and carpets. With a 20-minute run time on a full charge, you can quickly clean up messes around your home.

References

1.
Tips for Vacuuming Pet Hair | PetMD
Pet hair and dander can be more than just annoying, it can be dangerous if anyone in the household has allergies. Fortunately, vacuuming and preventative maintenance can help reduce allergens in your home and improve the overall air quality.
2.
Get pet hair off and out of your home - DogTime
If you have a pet, you know how frustrating pet hair can be. My cats leave hair everywhere. I vacuum, dust and clean the house only to see new tumbleweeds of hair rolling across the floor.
9,9
Total Score
BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser 2390A - Editor’s Choice
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