Living with pets brings joy, but it also means dealing with pet hair. For many pet owners, managing fur tumbleweeds becomes a daily chore. Fortunately, automatic vacuum cleaners, often called robot vacuums, are designed to take the hassle out of cleaning pet hair. These clever devices can significantly reduce the amount of manual vacuuming needed, keeping your home cleaner with minimal effort. We consulted cleaning experts and conducted thorough testing to bring you a guide to the best automatic vacuums for pet hair available today. Our top choice overall is the iRobot Roomba j7+, a self-emptying model known for its effective pet waste avoidance and powerful cleaning in a compact design. For homes with varied flooring, the Roborock Q5+ stands out with its strong suction and long 180-minute runtime, effortlessly transitioning between hardwood and carpets.
We’ve compiled a list of the best automatic vacuum cleaners for pet hair to help you keep pet fur and dander under control.
When selecting an automatic vacuum for a pet-friendly home, certain features are crucial. Pet hair often wraps around brush rolls and wheels, so a model with a tangle-resistant brush roll is highly recommended. A self-emptying robot vacuum is also a significant advantage for pet owners, as it automatically empties collected hair and debris into its base when the internal bin is full. Moreover, obstacle avoidance is an essential feature for homes with pets, enabling the vacuum to navigate around pet toys and prevent getting stuck. Below, we present seven of the best automatic vacuum cleaners for pet hair to consider for your home.
Best Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair Overall
A Top-Rated Self-Emptying Model for Pet Mess Containment
iRobot Roomba j7+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum
Robot dimensions: 13.3 x 3.4 inches | Base dimensions: 15.7 x 11.9 x 13.3 inches | Weight: 7.5 pounds | Runtime: Up to 120 minutes | Bin capacity: 0.3 liters (robot), 2.4 liters (base) | Features: Self-emptying, obstacle avoidance, dirt and cliff detection, smart mapping
Pros:
- Compact self-emptying base design
- Obstacle detection specifically avoids pet waste and toys
- Advanced mapping and precise cleaning capabilities
- Multi-surface, anti-tangle brush rolls for effective pet hair removal
Cons:
- Round shape may not be ideal for corner cleaning
- Self-emptying function can be noisy
The Roomba j7+ is our top pick for the Best Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair after comprehensive testing of the best robot vacuums and the best vacuums for pet hair. Its standout feature is superior obstacle detection and avoidance, enabling it to identify and avoid pet waste, power cords, and pet toys, preventing interruptions during cleaning cycles. iRobot is so confident in its pet waste avoidance that they offer the P.O.O.P. (Pet Owner Official Promise) guarantee, providing a free replacement within a year if the vacuum encounters pet waste. In terms of suction, our testers confirmed it effectively “sucked up natural and artificial dog hair on both carpet and hardwood without any issue.”
Pet owners will appreciate other notable features: The j7+ includes dual multi-surface brush rolls engineered to resist tangling, proven effective in our tests. It also features smart mapping for targeted cleaning via app or voice commands. The self-emptying base is particularly useful for homes with shedding pets, holding up to 60 days of dirt and pet hair. One tester mentioned, “The self-emptying feature and scheduling eliminated constant pet hair cleanup.” However, the self-emptying process can be loud, which is a consideration for noise-sensitive pets.
Best Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair On Carpet
A Powerful Automatic Vacuum for Both Hard Floors and Carpets
Roborock Q5+ Robot Vacuum With Auto-Empty Dock
Robot dimensions: 13.8 x 3.8 inches | Base dimensions: 13.8 x 13.8 x 3.8 inches | Weight: 15.4 pounds | Runtime: Up to 180 minutes | Bin capacity: 0.5 liters (robot), 2.5 liters (base) | Features: Self-emptying, LiDAR navigation, no-go zones, cliff sensors, multi-level mapping
Pros:
- Self-emptying base holds up to seven weeks of dirt and pet hair
- Seamless navigation across hard floors, rugs/carpets, and low obstacles
- Strong suction power and precise mapping with LiDAR technology
- User-friendly mobile application
Cons:
- May struggle with rug fringes or very long pet hair compared to competitors
For homes with carpeting and heavy-shedding pets, the Roborock Q5+ stands out as a top automatic vacuum choice. According to Elizabeth Shields, operations manager of Super Cleaning Service Louisville and a pet owner herself, it meets nearly all criteria for an ideal robot vacuum for pet hair. This model boasts a powerful 2,700 Pascals (Pa) of suction, placing it at the higher end of standard vacuum power (typically 2,000 to 3,000 Pa). It also offers an extended runtime of up to 180 minutes, allowing it to cover larger areas on a single charge. The extra-large self-emptying base can hold up to seven weeks’ worth of debris, making it perfect for homes with significant pet hair.
Many users praise the Q5+’s advanced smart-mapping technology, which can create multiple maps for multi-story homes. The Roborock app also allows users to set no-go zones and virtual walls. While navigation is generally excellent, some users note that it can occasionally get caught on rug tassels or fringes.
Best Splurge Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair
A D-Shaped Automatic Vacuum Designed for Corner Cleaning
iRobot Roomba s9+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum
Robot dimensions: 12.3 x 3.5 inches | Base dimensions: 11.5 x 14.9 x 19 inches | Weight: 8.2 pounds | Runtime: 120 minutes | Bin capacity: 0.4 liters (robot), 1.7 liters (base) | Features: Self-emptying, dirt and cliff detection, no-go zones, smart mapping
Pros:
- Exceptionally powerful suction for deep cleaning
- D-shaped design for improved corner and edge cleaning
- Self-emptying base holds up to 60 days’ worth of debris
Cons:
- Some users report occasional tech issues
- Higher price point
While the Roomba j7+ is our top overall recommendation, the Roomba s9+ represents a step up in performance, making it an excellent splurge option. It’s particularly well-suited for larger homes due to its wider brush roll and 120-minute runtime, covering more area per charge. Its unique D-shape design allows it to clean corners and edges more effectively, and the rubber brushes are specifically designed to resist pet hair tangles.
Our tester noted that the s9+ picked up the most debris among the seven models tested, attributing this to its “suction power and rubber rollers that don’t often get gunked up with hair.” It also automatically increases suction on carpets for deeper cleaning. The s9+’s self-emptying base is described as “life-changing” by our tester, capable of holding up to 60 days of dirt. A “Careful Drive” mode is available for obstacle avoidance, though it lacks the pet waste detection of the j7+, suggesting supervision during operation might be best.
Best Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair On Hardwood Floors
A Streamlined Automatic Vacuum Ideal for Hard Floors
Shark Ion Robot Vacuum
Robot dimensions: 12.6 x 3.5 inches | Base dimensions: N/A (charging dock included) | Weight: 9.9 pounds | Runtime: 120 minutes | Bin capacity: 0.4 liters | Features: Voice control, scheduling, cliff detect
Pros:
- Simple and easy setup
- Excellent performance on hardwood and tile floors
- Long runtime suitable for larger homes
Cons:
- Lacks a self-emptying base
For homes primarily with hardwood or tile floors, the Shark Ion Robot Vacuum is a highly recommended, affordable automatic vacuum, popular among busy pet-owning households. While it doesn’t have advanced smart features like some other models, it offers voice assistant compatibility, scheduling, and cliff detection. Its slim, low profile allows it to easily clean under furniture, and its three-brush system effectively captures pet hair. It boasts a 120-minute runtime per charge, suitable for larger spaces. A notable drawback is the lack of a self-emptying base, requiring manual emptying.
A tester with a German Shepherd-Labrador mix praises the Shark Ion for managing shedding on hardwood floors, saying, “I’ve had this Shark vacuum for a few years now and it’s been a big help… It’s a very simple model, but it gets the job done and didn’t cost a fortune. I do wish it had a self-emptying base—having to constantly clean the hair out is a bit annoying.” She also advises against using it on rugs, as it tends to deposit pet hair on fabric surfaces.
Best Starter Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair
A Reliable and Easy-to-Use Option for Routine Cleaning
iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum
Robot dimensions: 13.4 x 3.5 inches | Bin dimensions: N/A (charging dock included) | Weight: 6.8 pounds | Runtime: 90 minutes | Bin capacity: 0.6 liters | Features: Personalized scheduling, voice control, dirt and cliff detect
Pros:
- Three-stage cleaning system for effective dirt and pet hair removal
- Multi-surface brushes effectively capture pet fur
- Multiple sensors for stair avoidance and floor type transitions
Cons:
- Lacks smart navigation and mapping features
- May repeat cleaning in some areas while missing others
While a standard vacuum may still be needed for deep cleaning, the iRobot Roomba 694 is well-equipped for keeping smaller, uncluttered spaces mostly free of pet hair. It lacks the smart mapping and self-emptying of higher-end models, but it features a three-stage cleaning system, dual multi-surface brushes, and sufficient suction to lift pet hair from both carpets and hardwood floors.
Our tester found the Roomba 694 effectively navigated original wood floors and transitioned between hardwood and low- to medium-pile carpets. She cautioned that it can get tangled on cords and shoelaces if the area isn’t pre-cleaned. Overall, she praised it as an affordable option for managing “formerly ubiquitous” pet hair. Cleaning expert Shields also recommends the 694, stating, “I use it every day, and it does a great job of picking up dirt and pet hair for my three cats.”
Best Value Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair
A Quiet and Agile Low-Profile Option
Eufy RoboVac G30
Robot dimensions: 12.8 x 2.9 inches | Bin dimensions: N/A (charging dock included) | Weight: 6 pounds | Runtime: 100 minutes | Bin capacity: 0.6L | Features: Smart navigation, BoostIQ, scheduling, cliff and obstacle detect
Pros:
- Agile and nimble due to slim design and smart navigation
- Automatic suction adjustment based on floor type (BoostIQ)
- Among the quietest automatic vacuums tested
Cons:
- No self-emptying or smart-mapping capabilities
- Long pet hair may tangle around the brush roll
For the best value in an automatic vacuum for pet hair, the Eufy RoboVac G30 offers a range of useful features at an affordable price. Unlike many competitors in its price range, it includes smart functionality, controllable via smartphone or voice assistant. Its slim profile, under 3 inches tall, was particularly beneficial in testing. One tester noted, “[it] was the only robot able to slither under a midcentury desk… something I didn’t even think was possible. It doesn’t have a protruding LiDAR sensor and is slimmer than the other vacuums, so it’s able to clean under furniture that other robots can’t.”
While lacking features like smart mapping or self-emptying, it efficiently navigates obstacles, avoids stairs, and uses a zig-zag pattern for thorough cleaning. It’s also remarkably quiet, despite its BoostIQ technology that automatically increases suction on carpets.
Best Robot Vacuum And Mop Combo For Pet Hair
A Robust Automatic Vacuum with Superior Suction and Navigation
Roborock S8+ Robot Vacuum
Robot dimensions: 13.9 x 13.8 x 3.8 inches | Base dimensions: 12 x 17.3 x 17.6 inches | Weight: 20.5 pounds | Runtime: 180 minutes | Bin capacity: 0.3 liters (robot), 2.5 liters (base), 0.3 liters (water tank) | Features: Self-emptying, mopping, LiDAR, obstacle avoidance, cleaning routines
Pros:
- Dual rubber brush rolls for tangle-free pet hair removal
- Exceptionally strong suction power
- Highly precise mapping and navigation system
Cons:
- Mopping performance may be less consistent along edges between carpets and hard floors
Many automatic vacuums struggle with thicker carpets, but the Roborock S8+ excels on virtually any floor type, thanks to its unique brush roll design and powerful 6,000 Pa suction, significantly higher than the average 2,000 to 3,000 Pa. A tester with a Great Pyrenees mix stated this vacuum “has significantly reduced the need for daily manual vacuuming to just about once a week.” It features dual rubber brush rolls that rotate in opposite directions to prevent pet hair tangling and automatically boosts suction on carpets for deeper cleaning. The self-emptying base holds up to seven weeks of debris, though more frequent emptying may be needed with heavy pet hair.
With precise LiDAR mapping and obstacle avoidance, it avoids pet toys and other floor clutter. The app offers features like no-go zones and cleaning path tracking. The S8+ also mops hard floors, helpful for pet-related stains and dirt, though mopping reviews are less uniformly positive than vacuuming performance reviews. Cleaning expert Shields recommends combo devices like the S8+ for convenience, saying, “It’s a real time-saver, plus you don’t have to store two separate devices.”
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How We Chose The Best Automatic Vacuums For Pet Hair
Our selection of the best automatic vacuums for pet hair is based on thorough research, expert interviews, and firsthand testing.
- Pet owners on our team tested six of the recommended automatic vacuums, informing our choices with their direct experiences.
- Cleaning experts Shields and Kessman provided best practices for pet-friendly home maintenance, guiding our selection criteria. Shields specifically recommends the iRobot Roomba j7+, the Roomba 694 and the Roborock S8+.
- We evaluated suction power, brush roll efficiency, obstacle avoidance, and other factors during testing and market research.
- Price was considered, including models from $230 to $1,000 to suit various budgets and needs.
What To Look For In Automatic Vacuums For Pet Hair
While all good automatic vacuums for pet hair are designed for easy carpet and floor cleaning, consider these factors to find the best model for your specific needs.
Suction Power
Strong suction is essential for effectively lifting pet hair and dander, according to cleaning expert Shields. Aim for models with higher Pascal (Pa) ratings, ideally closer to 5,000 Pa. (Average robot vacuums range from 2,000 to 3,000 Pa, while advanced models like the Roborock S8+ can reach 6,000 Pa.) Since carpet requires more suction for pet hair removal, choose a model with automatic suction adjustment based on flooring type.
Capacity
Robot vacuums have smaller dustbins compared to traditional vacuums. Pet hair fills bins quickly, so larger bins are preferable to reduce emptying frequency, notes Shields. Self-emptying models, with base bin capacities around 2 liters, are often worth the extra cost for pet owners due to reduced maintenance.
Object Avoidance
Effective object detection and navigation prevent automatic vacuums from getting stuck on toys or pet accidents. Our top pick, the iRobot Roomba j7+, excels in obstacle detection, specifically designed to avoid pet waste. Roborock models like the Q5+ and S8+ also offer excellent obstacle avoidance, cliff detection, and no-go zone settings through LiDAR mapping.
Special Features
For smaller, less cluttered homes with mostly hard floors, basic automatic vacuums like the Roomba 694 or Eufy RoboVac G30 may suffice. However, for multi-level homes or varied flooring, consider features like tangle-resistant brushes, smart mapping, and app integration for scheduling, cleaning routines, and remote/voice control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Is The Highest-Rated Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair?
iRobot Roomba often ranks among the top automatic vacuums for pet owners. Newer Roomba models typically feature tangle-free rubber brush rolls ideal for pet hair on hard floors and carpets. Higher-end models offer advanced obstacle detection, suitable for homes with pet toys or accidents. For an affordable option, Elizabeth Shields recommends the iRobot Roomba 694, priced under $250. She notes, “I use it every day, and it does a great job of picking up dirt and pet hair from my three cats.”
What Is The Best Automatic Vacuum For Long-Haired Pets?
For long-haired pets, tangle-free brush rolls are crucial to prevent hair wrapping. Models with self-cleaning mechanisms that direct hair into the dustbin are beneficial. The iRobot Roomba j7+ and Roborock S8+ both feature dual rubber brush rolls that are less prone to tangling than bristled brushes.
Is It Worth Getting An Automatic Vacuum For Pet Hair?
If you’re short on time for manual vacuuming, an automatic vacuum can be a worthwhile investment for managing pet hair. Meaghan Kessman, a professional home organizer, notes, “Running a robot vacuum every night is incredibly helpful for managing pet hair… It keeps your floors clean daily, reduces the amount of hair and dander that settles into carpets, and makes your regular cleaning routine much easier.” Basic models are reasonably priced, like the Eufy RoboVac G30, offering great value around $100.
