We found the adjustable suction power to be a game changer for effectively cleaning all types of carpet. This model was simple to set up and it also had an average noise level equivalent to a hair dryer. We really enjoyed using the hard flooring mode, which turns off the brush roller to prevent debris from being spit in every direction. When using this mode, we found it’s best to vacuum directly over debris, as it does not easily suck up debris that may be tangential to the motor head without the extra help from the brush roll.
The Athlet in particular, although slightly heavier than the Dyson, distributes its weight well due to its design, something the Shark doesn’t do. This vacuum’s anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter effectively trap dust—a major win for families with pets and allergies. You’ll also enjoy the clear dust bin that allows you to see what you’re capturing in real time, and it releases very easily with the help of built-in latches. At this price point, you can’t beat the performance and easy-to-use design that makes this vacuum a favorite among our team.
Now, before you schedule your next deep-cleaning vacuum sesh, take some time to figure out which vacuum is really worth investing in. To kick-start your search, we scoured the internet to find all the best cordless vacuum cleaners for pet hair to shop now. Get whichever machine you already have batteries for—the DeWalt and the Milwaukee are similar enough in price and performance. These rechargeable-battery systems really work—but they only make sense if you go all-in on one brand. Looking for a handheld vacuum that does a little bit of everything? The Hoover OnePwr works on hard and upholstered surfaces to powerfully suck up debris with ease.
Well, we call in plenty from the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to find out. We grind pet hair into the carpet before vacuuming, to create the worst-case scenario. Not that you really need to worry about switching between modes; its ‘clean sense IQ’ technology will automatically ramp up the power if it detects a notably dirty spot. Though not as advanced as the pet-specific model above, this simpler Vax is a smart choice if you don’t have any furry friends.
The best handheld vacuum for you is one that’s not only high-quality, but also fits your specific needs. Before making your selection, here are some key points to consider. Check out our Top-To-Bottom Spring Cleaning Toolkit to shop everything you’ll need to get your home sparkling for the season. This is the Roborock Q5 packaged with a charging dock that sucks all the debris out of the robot after a cleaning session.
You hate cutting hair from the brush roller
If you think there’s nothing more annoying than spending hours cutting hair from the brush roller of a vacuum, then this is the model for you. The Anti Hair Wrap technology ensures hair is whisked straight into the canister without becoming caught around the brush roll. Shark claims the battery lasts up to 60 minutes between charges; however, this is on the lowest powerful power setting. In our tests, when used on the most powerful setting, the cleaner managed only 11 minutes of vacuuming before the battery required recharging. On the main unit you’ll also find a 2.5-inch LCD screen that displays the remaining runtime, along with the power button, suction level control, and the carpet or hard floor selector.
What makes this vacuum so versatile is that it uses Shark’s Lift-Away feature, which unlocks three cleaning modes. First, the ION P50 can work as an upright vacuum for deep cleaning on low pile carpets and hardwood floors. You can also detach parts of the vacuum to make it either a handheld vacuum irobot vacuum cleaner for cleaning smaller areas in your home or car, or a stick vacuum that’ll fit under furniture and in other small areas on the ground. Accessories shouldn’t be an afterthought when shopping for a Shark vacuum because the right tools can help you complete your cleaning tasks more quickly and easily.