Buying Guide for the Best Bissell Vacuums For Pet Hair
When it comes to choosing a vacuum cleaner for pet hair, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best performance for your needs. Pet hair can be particularly challenging to clean, so you'll want a vacuum that is specifically designed to handle it. Here are some key specs to look out for and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.Suction PowerSuction power is the measure of how effectively a vacuum can pick up dirt and debris, including pet hair. This is important because pet hair can be deeply embedded in carpets and upholstery. Suction power is often measured in watts or air watts. Higher suction power means better performance, especially on carpets. For homes with multiple pets or high-shedding breeds, look for vacuums with higher suction power. If you have mostly hard floors and low-shedding pets, a moderate suction power should suffice.
Brush RollThe brush roll is a rotating brush that helps lift pet hair from carpets and upholstery. This is crucial for effectively removing pet hair that is stuck in fibers. Some vacuums come with tangle-free brush rolls, which are designed to prevent hair from wrapping around the brush. If you have long-haired pets, a tangle-free brush roll can save you a lot of maintenance time. For short-haired pets, a standard brush roll may be adequate.
Filtration SystemA good filtration system is essential for capturing pet dander and allergens, which can be a concern for people with allergies. HEPA filters are the gold standard as they can trap 99.97% of particles, including pet dander. If you or anyone in your household has allergies, look for vacuums with HEPA filters. For those without allergies, a standard filter may be sufficient, but a HEPA filter is always a good choice for better air quality.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the versatility of your vacuum. Look for vacuums that come with pet-specific tools like motorized pet brushes, crevice tools, and upholstery tools. These attachments can make it easier to clean pet hair from various surfaces. If you have a lot of furniture or hard-to-reach areas, having a variety of attachments can be very helpful. Choose a vacuum with the attachments that best match your cleaning needs.
Bagged vs. BaglessVacuums come in bagged and bagless models. Bagged vacuums tend to hold more dirt and are less messy to empty, which can be beneficial for pet hair. Bagless vacuums, on the other hand, are more convenient as you don't need to buy replacement bags. If you prefer less frequent emptying and less contact with dust and pet hair, a bagged vacuum might be better. If you prefer the convenience and lower ongoing costs, a bagless model could be the way to go.
Weight and ManeuverabilityWeight and maneuverability are important for ease of use, especially if you have a large home or multiple floors. Lighter vacuums are easier to carry and maneuver around furniture. If you have a large area to clean or multiple levels, consider a lightweight and easily maneuverable vacuum. For smaller spaces or single-level homes, weight may be less of a concern.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a vacuum can be a significant factor, especially if you have pets that are sensitive to loud noises. Quieter vacuums can make the cleaning process less stressful for your pets. Noise levels are usually measured in decibels (dB). If your pets are easily frightened by loud noises, look for vacuums with lower decibel ratings. If noise is not a major concern, this spec may be less critical.