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10 Best Upright Vacuums For Pet Hair 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner, HEPA, White, NV356E​ | Carpet, Area Rug & Hard Floor Cleaning, XL Dust Cup, Lightweight with Swivel Steering, 8-in Crevice Tool & Dusting Brush​

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,348
Suction Power
Filtration System
Bagged vs. Bagless

Most important from
42476 reviews

Suction Power
The suction on this vacuum is amazing, especially compared to my old Bissell.
Filtration System
Excellent for allergy sufferers – no dust leakage and captures allergens effectively.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Emptying the dustbin is slightly more involved but offers a better seal and prevents dust from escaping.
Weight and Maneuverability
It glides on carpet and laminate floors like going down a butter slide.
Noise Level
Quieter than previous vacuums, making it suitable for apartment living.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away (model NV356E), is designed with pet owners in mind, boasting features that effectively tackle pet hair and allergens. Its standout feature is the Lift-Away functionality, which allows you to detach the pod for cleaning hard-to-reach areas like stairs and furniture with ease. The HEPA filter combined with the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal captures 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it an excellent choice for those with allergies or pets.

The vacuum is equipped with a brush roll shutoff feature, so you can easily switch between cleaning carpets and hard floors. This versatility is complemented by the swivel steering, allowing for smooth maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces. Additionally, the extra-large capacity dust cup means less frequent trips to empty it, enhancing your cleaning experience.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a strong contender in the upright vacuum market, particularly for pet owners seeking a reliable solution for hair and dander. Its combination of powerful suction, allergen filtration, and user-friendly features makes it a practical choice.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,348
Suction Power
Filtration System
Bagged vs. Bagless

Most important from
42476 reviews

Suction Power
The suction on this vacuum is amazing, especially compared to my old Bissell.
Filtration System
Excellent for allergy sufferers – no dust leakage and captures allergens effectively.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Emptying the dustbin is slightly more involved but offers a better seal and prevents dust from escaping.
Weight and Maneuverability
It glides on carpet and laminate floors like going down a butter slide.
Noise Level
Quieter than previous vacuums, making it suitable for apartment living.
#2

Shark(R) Navigator Upright Vacuum, Lift-Away, HEPA Filter, Teal, ZU503AMZ | Self-cleaning brushroll for pet hair pickup with no hair wrap, anti-allergen sealed HEPA system to trap dust and allergens

Rating
9.7
Suction Power
Attachments and Accessories
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
7664 reviews

Suction Power
Its suction power is incredibly strong, leaving rooms noticeably cleaner and even making the air feel fresher.
Attachments and Accessories
The vacuum's versatility with multiple attachments and the ability to convert to a canister vacuum is highly appreciated.
Weight and Maneuverability
The Shark Upright Vacuum glides effortlessly over floors, unlike other models that feel rough and leave marks.
Noise Level
Many users find the Shark quieter compared to other brands, making it more pleasant to use.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away, is a strong contender for handling pet hair. Its self-cleaning brushroll is designed to pick up more pet hair without tangling, which is a significant advantage for pet owners. The vacuum also features anti-allergen complete seal technology coupled with a HEPA filter, ensuring that dust and allergens are trapped inside, making it suitable for households with allergy sufferers.

The lift-away functionality is versatile, allowing users to clean under furniture and above floor surfaces like upholstery and stairs with ease. The included pet crevice tool and upholstery tool help in cleaning hard-to-reach areas and delicate fabrics effectively. Swivel steering adds to its maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around furniture and tight spaces. However, at 14.99 pounds, it may be slightly heavier than some other models, which could be a drawback for those who need a lighter option. The vacuum operates at 80 dB, which is relatively noisy and might be a concern in noise-sensitive environments.

Additionally, it is a bagless vacuum with a 5.3-liter capacity, reducing the ongoing cost of purchasing bags but requiring regular maintenance to empty the dust bin. It is not a cordless model, so users will need to manage the power cord during use. With a 5-year limited warranty, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away offers peace of mind regarding its durability and longevity. This vacuum stands out for its pet hair cleaning capabilities, robust filtration system, and useful accessories, although its weight and noise level might pose challenges for some users.

Rating
9.7
Suction Power
Attachments and Accessories
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
7664 reviews

Suction Power
Its suction power is incredibly strong, leaving rooms noticeably cleaner and even making the air feel fresher.
Attachments and Accessories
The vacuum's versatility with multiple attachments and the ability to convert to a canister vacuum is highly appreciated.
Weight and Maneuverability
The Shark Upright Vacuum glides effortlessly over floors, unlike other models that feel rough and leave marks.
Noise Level
Many users find the Shark quieter compared to other brands, making it more pleasant to use.
#3

Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Large Dust Cup Capacity, LED Headlights, Upholstery Tool, Perfect Pet Power Brush & Crevice Tool, Bordeaux

Rating
9.7
Suction Power
Filtration System
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
17562 reviews

Suction Power
Exceptional suction power that effortlessly picks up pet hair, leaving carpets noticeably cleaner even after multiple passes.
Filtration System
HEPA filtration combined with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal offers strong protection against dust and allergens, ideal for pet owners with sensitivities.
Attachments and Accessories
Multiple attachments and adjustable handle lengths provide versatility for tackling upholstery and hard-to-reach places.
Weight and Maneuverability
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, allowing for fast cleaning across large areas without fatigue.

The Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet vacuum is a strong choice for pet owners who need an effective upright vacuum for pet hair. Its 2-in-1 Powered Lift-Away design makes it easy to reach under furniture and tight spots, while the powered brush roll is specially made to pick up pet hair and dirt from carpets and upholstery. The HEPA filtration combined with the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal helps trap 99.9% of dust and allergens, which is a big plus if allergies are a concern. This vacuum is bagless, with a large 0.88-quart dust cup that’s easy to empty, allowing for longer cleaning without frequent stops. It also has useful tools like a pet power brush, upholstery tool, and crevice tool to clean different surfaces and tight spaces well.

Maneuverability is improved by advanced swivel steering, making it easier to move around furniture and corners. LED headlights help spot hidden pet hair and debris on floors. The vacuum is corded, so you don't have to worry about battery life, but this may limit mobility somewhat compared to cordless models. If you need a reliable, versatile pet hair vacuum with strong suction and good filtration, this model fits those needs well, especially for homes with both carpets and hard floors.

Rating
9.7
Suction Power
Filtration System
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
17562 reviews

Suction Power
Exceptional suction power that effortlessly picks up pet hair, leaving carpets noticeably cleaner even after multiple passes.
Filtration System
HEPA filtration combined with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal offers strong protection against dust and allergens, ideal for pet owners with sensitivities.
Attachments and Accessories
Multiple attachments and adjustable handle lengths provide versatility for tackling upholstery and hard-to-reach places.
Weight and Maneuverability
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, allowing for fast cleaning across large areas without fatigue.

Buying Guide for the Best Upright Vacuums For Pet Hair

Choosing the right upright vacuum for pet hair can make a significant difference in maintaining a clean home, especially if you have furry friends. Pet hair can be stubborn and challenging to remove, so it's essential to select a vacuum that is specifically designed to handle it. When shopping for an upright vacuum for pet hair, consider the following key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs.
Suction PowerSuction power is the force with which the vacuum pulls in dirt and debris. This spec is crucial for picking up pet hair, which can be deeply embedded in carpets and upholstery. Higher suction power means better performance in removing pet hair. Suction power is often measured in watts or air watts. For homes with multiple pets or heavy shedders, a vacuum with higher suction power is recommended. For lighter shedding, a moderate suction power should suffice.
Brush RollThe brush roll is the rotating brush that agitates carpet fibers to lift dirt and hair. For pet hair, a vacuum with a motorized brush roll is ideal as it can effectively dislodge and pick up hair from carpets and rugs. Some vacuums come with tangle-free brush rolls, which prevent hair from wrapping around the brush and causing clogs. If you have a mix of carpet and hard floors, look for a vacuum with an adjustable or switchable brush roll.
Filtration SystemA good filtration system is essential for capturing pet dander and allergens, which can be a concern for pet owners. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are highly effective at trapping tiny particles and are recommended for households with allergy sufferers. Some vacuums also have washable filters, which can be more economical in the long run. If allergies are a concern, opt for a vacuum with a HEPA filter or a high-quality filtration system.
Bagged vs. BaglessUpright vacuums come in both bagged and bagless models. Bagged vacuums use disposable bags to collect dirt and hair, which can be more hygienic and easier to dispose of without releasing dust back into the air. Bagless vacuums have a dustbin that you empty, which can be more convenient and cost-effective since you don't need to buy replacement bags. If you prefer less frequent maintenance and easier disposal, a bagged vacuum might be better. If you want to save on ongoing costs, a bagless model could be the way to go.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the vacuum's ability to clean pet hair from various surfaces. Look for vacuums that come with specialized pet hair tools, such as a pet hair brush, crevice tool, and upholstery tool. These attachments can help you clean furniture, stairs, and other hard-to-reach areas where pet hair tends to accumulate. If you have multiple types of surfaces and furniture, a vacuum with a variety of attachments will be more versatile and effective.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight and maneuverability of the vacuum are important for ease of use, especially if you have a large home or multiple floors. Lighter vacuums are easier to carry and push around, while those with swivel steering can navigate around furniture and obstacles more smoothly. If you have a large area to clean or need to carry the vacuum up and down stairs, consider a lighter and more maneuverable model. For smaller spaces, weight may be less of a concern.
Noise LevelThe noise level of the vacuum can be a consideration, especially if you have pets that are sensitive to loud sounds. Quieter vacuums can make the cleaning process less stressful for both you and your pets. Noise levels are usually measured in decibels (dB). If noise is a concern, look for vacuums that are specifically designed to operate more quietly, typically those with noise levels below 70 dB.

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