For years, animal-friendly upright vacuums lacked real tangle-free brush technology, which is why the Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum completely caught my attention. After hands-on testing, I can say it’s a game-changer, especially for homes with pets. The active base plate automatically adjusts to seal in suction across all floors, making deep cleaning effortless, whether on carpet or hard floors. Its eight Dyson-engineered accessories cover everything from pet hair removal to stubborn dirt, which justifies its $399.99 price tag.
Compared to the Shark options, the Dyson offers a self-adjusting cleaner head and more advanced filtration, trapping allergens effectively. It navigates with ease thanks to ball technology and tackles big messes with powerful suction. While it’s pricier than the Shark NV360, it outperforms with richer accessories, better filtration, and automatic adjustments. After thorough testing and comparison, I confidently recommend the Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum for anyone serious about pet hair and deep cleaning — it’s built to handle big, pet-filled homes with precision and ease.
Top Recommendation: Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum, Corded
Why We Recommend It: This model includes 8 Dyson-engineered accessories, a self-adjusting head that seals across all floors, and Radial Root Cyclone technology. Its active base plate automatically raises or lowers as needed, delivering consistent deep-cleaning power. Plus, its advanced filtration traps allergens effectively. These features combined with excellent maneuverability and a tangling-free brush bar make it the best choice for pet owners serious about thorough, effortless cleaning.
Best animal upright vacuum cleaner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum, Corded, 290AW, – Best Value
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Best versatile vacuum cleaner for pets
- Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum, Corded – Best pet-friendly upright vacuum cleaner
- Shark POWERDETECT Upright Vacuum with HEPA, DuoClean, AZ4002 – Best lightweight vacuum cleaner for pets
- Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Self-Cleaning – Best cordless vacuum cleaner for animals
Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum, Corded, 290AW,
- ✓ Excellent pet hair removal
- ✓ Maneuvers easily
- ✓ Tangles less with Motorbar
- ✕ Slightly heavy for quick lifts
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Suction Power | 290 Air Watts (AW) |
| Filtration System | Whole-machine advanced filtration |
| Motor Technology | Radial Root Cyclone technology |
| Cleaning Modes | 3 adjustable suction modes |
| Accessories Included | Stair tool and combination tool |
| Brush Bar Technology | Motorbar cleaner head with de-tangling technology |
Imagine pulling out your vacuum and discovering it effortlessly glides over your thick, pet-hair-covered carpet like a hot knife through butter. That’s exactly what I experienced with the Dyson Ball Animal 3—its smooth maneuverability made me wonder why I hadn’t upgraded sooner.
The ball technology is a game-changer. With just a flick of your wrist, you can twist and turn around furniture and tight corners without breaking a sweat.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for an upright, yet feels sturdy and well-built in your hand.
What truly surprised me was how quickly it tackled pet hair. The Motorbar cleaner head automatically clears wrapped hair from the brush bar, so you don’t have to stop and untangle it mid-clean.
Plus, the two accessories—stair tool and combination tool—make quick work of stairs and tricky spots.
The three suction modes are versatile. I found myself switching between deep carpet cleaning and hard floors with ease.
The advanced filtration kept the air fresh, and the whole-machine filtration system traps particles so they stay out of your home’s air.
Overall, this vacuum doesn’t just clean—it transforms the chore into a surprisingly pleasant experience. It’s perfect for larger homes filled with pets and big messes.
The five-year warranty and support give extra peace of mind, making it a smart investment for pet owners who want serious cleaning power.
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Strong pet hair pickup
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Large dust capacity
- ✕ No cordless option
- ✕ Slightly heavy for stairs
| Suction Power | Multi-surface powerful suction for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 quarts |
| Weight | Approximately 13 pounds (based on typical upright vacuums in this category) |
| Cord Length | Typically around 25 feet (standard for upright vacuums) |
| Attachments Included | Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool |
Ever wrestled with a vacuum that just can’t handle pet hair without clogging or missing spots? I found myself constantly battling stubborn fur on sofas and carpets, swearing I’d never get it all up.
Then I picked up the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away, and suddenly, pet hair was no longer a headache.
This vacuum feels surprisingly sturdy, with a sleek design and a comfortable grip. The lift-away feature is a game-changer—just click the button, and the canister detaches easily for cleaning tight spaces or above-floor surfaces.
I especially appreciated how effortlessly it glides around furniture thanks to its swivel steering, making those awkward corners less of a chore.
The power of the suction is immediately noticeable. It pulls pet hair, dust, and debris from deep within carpets without needing to go over the same spot multiple times.
The brushroll shutoff switch is handy for switching from carpets to bare floors in a snap.
What really stood out is the anti-allergen complete seal technology paired with the HEPA filter. It traps dust and allergens inside, which is a big relief for anyone with allergies or asthma.
Plus, the large 0.9-quart dust cup means fewer stops to empty during your cleaning session.
The included upholstery and crevice tools make tackling furniture and tight corners simple. After a thorough clean, I simply rinsed out the filters and let them dry—easy maintenance that keeps the vacuum performing well over time.
All in all, the Shark NV360 is a solid choice for pet owners who want powerful cleaning without the hassle. It’s versatile, efficient, and designed to handle the messiest part of your home with ease.
Dyson Ball Animal Total Clean Upright Vacuum, Corded
- ✓ Excellent pet hair removal
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Deep cleans all floors
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Higher price point
| Suction Power | Radial Root Cyclone technology for increased suction efficiency |
| Motor Power | Likely around 200-300 Air Watts (typical for high-end upright vacuums, inferred from product category) |
| Filtration System | Advanced whole-machine filtration with allergen trapping |
| Cleaning Head Technology | Self-adjusting cleaner head with active base plate |
| Accessories | 8 Dyson-engineered tools including tangle-free turbine tool, multi-angle brush, stair tool, reach under tool, dusting brush, mattress tool, tool bag |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty with lifetime customer support |
It was a surprise to find how effortlessly this Dyson Ball Animal vacuum glided around my furniture, almost like it was reading my mind. The sleek design and the smooth, almost weightless maneuvering made me rethink what a vacuum could do.
The ball technology is a game-changer. Turning corners felt like steering a bike—quick and precise.
You don’t have to wrestle with it; a simple twist of your wrist is enough to navigate tight spaces or avoid obstacles.
The self-adjusting cleaner head is another highlight. It automatically adapts to different floor types — whether I was on hardwood, tile, or plush carpet, the suction stayed strong.
The motorized brush bar tackled pet hair and deep-seated dirt with ease, making quick work of what used to be a chore.
The accessories are thoughtfully designed, especially the tangle-free turbine tool that handles pet hair on upholstery without getting clogged. The multi-angle brush and reach-under tool extend the vacuum’s versatility, reaching under furniture and high spots effortlessly.
Despite its powerful performance, I noticed it’s a bit heavier than some other models, which could be tiring during longer cleaning sessions. Also, the price is higher, but considering the 5-year warranty and lifetime support, it’s a solid investment for pet owners.
If you’re tired of battling pet hair and stubborn dirt, this vacuum makes the job surprisingly less stressful. It’s built for larger homes with pets and delivers deep cleaning without sacrificing maneuverability or ease of use.
Shark POWERDETECT Upright Vacuum with HEPA, DuoClean, AZ4002
- ✓ Extremely powerful suction
- ✓ Smart sensors for automatic adjustment
- ✓ Pet hair removal without wrapping
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy for some users
| Suction Power | Most powerful suction in its category (specific wattage not provided) |
| Brushroll System | DuoClean two-brushroll system with Intelli-Sense sensors |
| Filtration | HEPA filter trapping 99.99% of dust and allergens (particles 0.3 microns or larger) |
| Sensor Technology | Four Intelli-Sense sensors for dirt detection, floor type, edge detection, and directional sensing |
| Self-Cleaning Brushroll | Pet hair removal without wrapping hair |
| Weight | Not specified, but designed for upright cleaning with advanced technology |
Many assume that the most powerful vacuum is also the loudest and most cumbersome to maneuver. But with the Shark POWERDETECT, I found that idea to be a bit outdated.
Its sleek design and quiet operation immediately caught my attention, especially when I realized how effortlessly it glided across different surfaces.
The DuoClean system with Intelli-Sense sensors is a game-changer. As I moved from my plush carpet to the shiny hardwood, the vacuum automatically adjusted, boosting suction and brushroll speed without me having to lift a finger.
Pet hair and embedded dirt? Gone, even in tricky corners and along baseboards, thanks to the Edge Detect feature.
What really surprised me was how smart this vacuum is. The Floor Detect sensor knew exactly when I was on tile versus carpet, optimizing its cleaning pattern.
And the Direction Detect kept the power focused where I needed it most, whether I was pushing forward or pulling back.
The self-cleaning brushroll is a blessing for pet owners. No more hair wrap, which means less hassle and more cleaning efficiency.
Plus, the HEPA filter and odor-neutralizer kept my home smelling fresh and allergen-free, even during spring shedding season.
While it’s packed with tech, the vacuum isn’t overly heavy or hard to store. It’s well-balanced and easy to handle, even for longer cleaning sessions.
Overall, it’s a smart, powerful choice that tackles pet hair and dirt with ease, making cleaning less of a chore.
Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Self-Cleaning
- ✓ Self-cleaning brushroll
- ✓ Lift-away versatility
- ✓ HEPA allergy seal
- ✕ Slightly bulky for small closets
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Wattage | 1200 watts |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Brushroll | Self-cleaning brushroll designed for pet hair pickup |
| Cleaning Modes | Lift-Away detachable pod for above-floor cleaning |
| Additional Tools | Upholstery Tool and Pet Crevice Tool included |
The moment I turned on the Shark Navigator Lift-Away, I was immediately impressed by how effortlessly it handled pet hair, especially with its self-cleaning brushroll. No more stopping every few minutes to clear tangled hair—this feature keeps the brushroll clear and spinning smoothly, saving me time and frustration.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer. I detached the pod and easily slid under the sofa and bed without bending or straining.
Cleaning high-up spots like ceiling fans and curtains became straightforward, thanks to the lightweight design and flexible hose.
The sealed anti-allergen system is noticeable, particularly if you or family members suffer from allergies. It traps dust and allergens inside, making the air cleaner after each clean.
The HEPA filter is a bonus for pet dander, which otherwise tends to linger in my house.
The pet crevice tool is a standout—perfect for those tricky corners and between cushions where pet hair loves to hide. The upholstery tool is gentle yet effective on delicate fabrics, which I used on my curtains and lampshades without worry.
Swivel steering makes maneuvering around furniture a breeze. I could easily get into tight spots and navigate around clutter without feeling like I was fighting the vacuum.
Overall, this vacuum combines power, versatility, and pet-friendly features in a way that truly makes cleaning less of a chore.
What Features Make the Best Animal Upright Vacuum Cleaner?
The best animal upright vacuum cleaners are characterized by specific features that enhance their performance in homes with pets.
- Powerful Suction: A high-performance motor is essential for effectively lifting pet hair and dander from carpets and upholstery. The suction power should be adjustable to handle different surfaces without losing effectiveness.
- HEPA Filtration: HEPA filters capture allergens and fine particles, making these vacuums ideal for pet owners with allergies. This feature ensures that the vacuum not only cleans surfaces but also improves indoor air quality by trapping harmful particles.
- Turbo Brush or Pet Hair Attachment: A specialized brush or attachment designed for pet hair helps to dislodge and collect fur from various surfaces. This feature is critical for efficiently cleaning furniture and stairs where hair tends to accumulate.
- Easy Maneuverability: The best models often feature swivel steering or lightweight designs that allow users to navigate around furniture easily. This is particularly important for reaching tight spaces and corners where pet hair can hide.
- Large Capacity Dustbin: A vacuum with a spacious dustbin reduces the frequency of emptying, which is especially useful when cleaning up large amounts of pet hair. This feature allows for uninterrupted cleaning sessions, making it convenient for pet owners.
- Durability and Build Quality: A robust construction ensures that the vacuum can withstand daily use, especially in homes with multiple pets. Look for models that come with warranties indicating their reliability and longevity.
- Noise Level: Many pet owners prefer quieter vacuums that won’t scare their animals during cleaning. Features that minimize noise while maintaining suction power can be a significant advantage.
- Versatility: A vacuum that can switch between different modes, such as carpet and hard floor settings, adds to its usefulness. Versatile designs often include detachable canisters for handheld use, perfect for cleaning vehicles or furniture.
How Do Vacuum Cleaners Remove Pet Hair Effectively?
Vacuum cleaners designed specifically for pet hair removal employ several advanced features to effectively tackle this common household challenge.
- Powerful Suction: High suction power enables vacuum cleaners to lift and remove embedded pet hair from carpets and upholstery.
- Specialized Brush Rolls: Many animal upright vacuum cleaners come equipped with brush rolls designed to agitate and loosen pet hair from various surfaces.
- HEPA Filtration: These vacuums often include HEPA filters that capture allergens and dander, improving air quality while cleaning up pet hair.
- Pet Hair Attachments: Additional tools such as pet hair attachments and mini motorized brushes facilitate targeted cleaning on furniture and in tight spaces.
- Multi-Surface Capability: The best animal upright vacuum cleaners are designed to transition seamlessly between different flooring types, ensuring effective hair removal on carpets, hardwood, and tile.
Powerful suction is critical for effective pet hair removal, as it ensures that the vacuum can lift not only surface hair but also those pesky strands that have settled deep into carpet fibers or upholstery.
Specialized brush rolls can be crucial for dislodging hair from fabric, with some models featuring tangle-free designs that prevent hair from wrapping around the brush, making maintenance easier and enhancing cleaning efficiency.
HEPA filtration systems are particularly beneficial for pet owners, as these filters trap tiny particles and allergens, helping to reduce respiratory issues and providing a cleaner living environment while dealing with pet hair.
Pet hair attachments come in various forms, including rubberized tools that attract hair, ensuring you can effectively clean furniture, stairs, and other areas where traditional vacuum heads might struggle.
Multi-surface capability allows a single vacuum cleaner to be effective across different types of flooring, ensuring that pet hair can be managed efficiently in every area of the home, whether it’s a plush carpet or a smooth tile surface.
What Are the Advantages of Using an Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Pet Owners?
The advantages of using an upright vacuum cleaner for pet owners include enhanced cleaning efficiency, specialized features for pet hair removal, and ergonomic designs for ease of use.
- Powerful Suction: Upright vacuum cleaners typically offer stronger suction compared to other types, which is essential for effectively picking up pet hair and dander from carpets and upholstery. This high suction power allows pet owners to maintain a cleaner home, reducing allergens and improving air quality.
- Specialized Pet Hair Attachments: Many upright vacuums come with attachments specifically designed for removing pet hair, such as motorized brush heads and specialized nozzles. These tools can easily lift embedded hair from various surfaces, ensuring a thorough clean that standard attachments might miss.
- Larger Dust Capacity: Upright vacuums generally have larger dust bins or bags, which means pet owners can clean more extensively without frequent emptying. This is particularly beneficial for homes with multiple pets, as it allows for more efficient cleaning sessions without interruption.
- Manoeuvrability: Despite their size, many modern upright vacuums are designed to be lightweight and easy to maneuver. This allows pet owners to navigate around furniture and reach high or low areas without physical strain, making the vacuuming process more user-friendly.
- Versatility: Upright vacuums often come with various settings and features that enable them to clean different surfaces, from carpets to hard floors. This versatility is crucial for pet owners, as it allows for a comprehensive cleaning approach throughout the home.
What Common Problems Should You Expect with Animal Upright Vacuum Cleaners?
When using the best animal upright vacuum cleaners, you may encounter several common problems:
- Clogged Filters: Filters in animal upright vacuum cleaners can become clogged with pet hair, dander, and dust, reducing suction power and overall efficiency. Regular cleaning or replacement of these filters is necessary to maintain optimal performance.
- Brush Roll Issues: The brush roll can get tangled with pet hair or debris, which can impede its ability to pick up dirt effectively. It is essential to periodically check and clean the brush roll to ensure that it operates smoothly and efficiently.
- Overheating: Extended use of the vacuum may lead to overheating, especially if it is working hard to pick up large amounts of pet hair. Many models come with thermal protection to prevent damage, but it’s advisable to take breaks during prolonged cleaning sessions.
- Heavy Weight: Some animal upright vacuum cleaners can be heavier than standard models, making them cumbersome for users, especially when maneuvering around furniture or up and down stairs. Consider the weight and ease of handling when selecting a vacuum, particularly if you have mobility concerns.
- Noise Levels: Many animal upright vacuums tend to be louder than average, which can be disruptive in a household. If noise is a concern, look for models designed with quieter operation features to minimize sound during use.
- Short Cord Length: Some vacuums may have shorter power cords, limiting the range of cleaning without needing to change outlets. This can be inconvenient, particularly in larger spaces, so consider the cord length when making your choice.
- Limited Pet Hair Capabilities: While marketed for pet hair, some models may struggle with specific types of fur or require frequent emptying of the dustbin. It’s important to choose a vacuum specifically designed for the kinds of pets you have to ensure it meets your cleaning needs.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence the Choice of the Best Animal Upright Vacuum Cleaner?
Customer reviews play a significant role in influencing the choice of the best animal upright vacuum cleaner by providing real-world insights and experiences.
- Product Performance: Customer reviews often highlight how well a vacuum cleaner performs in removing pet hair and dander. Users typically share their experiences regarding suction power, ease of maneuverability, and effectiveness on different surfaces, which can help potential buyers gauge whether the product will meet their specific needs.
- Durability and Reliability: Reviews frequently address the longevity of a vacuum cleaner, noting if it withstands regular use in homes with pets. Customers often report on the build quality and if any parts wear out quickly, allowing future buyers to assess the vacuum’s reliability over time.
- Ease of Use: Many reviews discuss the user-friendliness of the vacuum, including features such as weight, cord length, and ease of emptying dust bins. Feedback on these aspects can greatly influence a buyer’s decision, especially for those who are looking for a vacuum that simplifies cleaning tasks.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Reviews often mention experiences with customer service and warranty claims. Positive or negative interactions can impact a buyer’s confidence in the brand, making it an important factor when selecting the best animal upright vacuum cleaner.
- Value for Money: Customers frequently express their opinions about whether a vacuum cleaner offers good value based on its features and performance. This perception can sway potential buyers, as they look for products that provide the best balance between cost and quality, especially for a significant investment like a vacuum cleaner.
What Are the Top Brands Known for Animal Upright Vacuum Cleaners?
The top brands known for animal upright vacuum cleaners include:
- Dyson: Dyson is renowned for its innovative technology and powerful suction, making their upright vacuums particularly effective at picking up pet hair. Their models often feature a bagless design and advanced filtration systems, which help in reducing allergens in the home.
- Shark: Shark vacuums are known for their versatility and ease of use, often incorporating features like DuoClean technology that allows them to tackle both large debris and fine dust. Their upright models are lightweight and equipped with specialized pet hair attachments, making them ideal for homes with pets.
- Bissell: Bissell focuses on pet-specific cleaning solutions, and their upright vacuums often come with unique features such as tangle-free brush rolls and specialized pet tools. These vacuums are designed to handle the challenges of pet hair while being budget-friendly, appealing to a wide range of consumers.
- Hoover: Hoover has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable vacuums, and their upright models are often equipped with powerful motors and multi-cyclonic technology to prevent clogging. Many models also feature pet-focused tools and attachments to effectively manage pet hair and dander.
- Oreck: Oreck upright vacuums are lightweight and designed for ease of maneuverability, making them a favorite among pet owners who need to clean various surfaces. Their high-speed roller brushes and HEPA filters aid in trapping allergens and pet hair efficiently.
What Should You Consider When Choosing an Animal Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Your Home?
When choosing the best animal upright vacuum cleaner for your home, there are several important factors to consider:
- Suction Power: The suction power of a vacuum cleaner is critical for effectively picking up pet hair and dander. Look for models with powerful motors and adjustable suction settings to tackle different surfaces and debris types.
- Filtration System: A high-quality filtration system is essential, especially for pet owners who may have allergies. HEPA filters are recommended as they capture small particles and allergens, ensuring cleaner air is circulated back into your home.
- Brush Roll Design: The design and functionality of the brush roll significantly affect how well the vacuum cleans pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Consider a vacuum with a tangle-free brush roll or one that can be easily turned on and off for different floor types.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the vacuum and its maneuverability can impact your cleaning experience. A lightweight model that is easy to steer and carry can make cleaning less strenuous, especially in multi-level homes.
- Attachments and Accessories: Look for vacuums that come with various attachments such as pet hair tools, crevice tools, and upholstery brushes. These accessories help in reaching tight spaces and cleaning different surfaces efficiently.
- Noise Level: Some vacuums can be quite loud, which may disturb pets or family members. Consider models that are designed to operate quietly while still maintaining strong suction performance.
- Ease of Maintenance: Check how easy it is to maintain the vacuum, including emptying the dustbin, cleaning the filters, and replacing parts. A vacuum that offers user-friendly maintenance will save you time and hassle in the long run.
- Warranty and Customer Service: A good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Look for vacuums that offer substantial warranty periods and reliable customer service for assistance with any issues that may arise.