Pet owners know the struggle: shedding, dander, tracked-in dirt, and the occasional accident. A good vacuum cleaner is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy home with furry companions. Dyson, Shark, and Bissell are three of the biggest names in the vacuum cleaner market, each offering a range of models designed to tackle pet-related messes. But which brand truly offers the best value and performance for homes with pets? This review will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each brand, comparing models with a focus on key features like suction power, filtration, brushroll design, and ease of use to help you make the right choice.
This comprehensive comparison will explore the strengths and weaknesses of each brand, pitting specific models against each other to determine which offers the best overall value for pet owners. We’ll examine factors such as suction power, filtration capabilities, brushroll design (especially for handling pet hair), ease of use, and the specific features that make a vacuum cleaner truly pet-friendly. Whether you’re dealing with carpets covered in fur, hardwood floors sprinkled with litter, or upholstery needing a deep clean, we’ll help you find the perfect cleaning companion.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Dyson: Offers powerful suction and advanced filtration, making them ideal for allergy sufferers, but tends to be more expensive.
- Shark: Provides a good balance of performance and features at a mid-range price point, often with innovative brushroll designs to prevent hair wrap.
- Bissell: Delivers excellent value for money, particularly for tackling tough stains and messes, with specialized pet-focused models.
- Brushroll Design: Shark’s self-cleaning brushrolls are a standout feature for pet hair, while Dyson’s motorized brush heads offer deep cleaning power. Bissell offers brushrolls designed for multi-surface cleaning, which are effective for both carpets and hard floors.
- Verdict: Each brand has its strengths, making the “best” choice dependent on your specific needs and budget. Dyson excels in overall performance, Shark offers innovative features at a reasonable price, and Bissell provides excellent value for targeted cleaning tasks.
Specifications (Example Comparison – Actual specs vary by model)
| Feature | Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra | Shark Vertex AZ2002 | Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind |
| —————– | ————————- | ———————- | ———————————— |
| Type | Upright | Upright | Upright |
| Weight | 17.24 lbs | 16 lbs | 18 lbs |
| Cord Length | 35 ft | 30 ft | 30 ft |
| Suction Power | 290 AW | 240 AW | 200 AW |
| Filtration | Whole-machine HEPA | HEPA | SmartSeal Allergen System |
| Brushroll | Motorized, Self-adjusting | Self-Cleaning Brushroll | Tangle-Free Brushroll |
| Attachments | Tangle-free Turbine Tool, Combination Tool, Stair Tool | Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool, Pet Power Brush | Extension Wand, Pet TurboBrush Tool, Crevice Tool |
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.55 gallons | 0.8 gallons | 0.75 liters |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years | 5 years |
| Additional Features | Ball Technology | DuoClean Technology | Rewind Cord |
Price and Availability
- Dyson: Available at Dyson.com, major retailers like Best Buy and Amazon. Prices range from \$400 to \$700+ depending on the model.
- Shark: Widely available at Sharkclean.com, Target, Walmart, and Amazon. Prices typically range from \$250 to \$500.
- Bissell: Found at Bissell.com, Walmart, Target, and Amazon. Offers the most budget-friendly options, with prices ranging from \$150 to \$400.
Design and Build Quality
Dyson vacuums are renowned for their distinctive design and robust construction. Models like the Ball Animal 3 Extra feel solid and well-engineered, with durable plastics and a distinctive ball design for easy maneuverability. However, some users find the ball design can be a bit unwieldy in tight spaces.
Shark vacuums strike a balance between functionality and aesthetics. The Vertex AZ2002 boasts a sleek, modern design with useful features like LED headlights and a lift-away canister for portable cleaning. Build quality is generally good, although some components may feel less premium than Dyson’s.
Bissell vacuums prioritize practicality and affordability. While they may not have the same visual appeal as Dyson or Shark, Bissell models like the Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind are built to withstand heavy use. The materials are durable, and the design focuses on ease of use and functionality.
Design and Build Comparison
Dyson’s design language emphasizes engineering and performance, with a focus on creating visually striking and highly functional machines. Shark balances aesthetics with practicality, offering user-friendly features and a modern look. Bissell focuses on durability and value, prioritizing functionality and ease of use over premium materials or design elements.
Performance and Features
Suction Power
Dyson consistently delivers powerful suction, making them excellent for deep cleaning carpets and removing embedded pet hair. Models like the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra boast impressive airflow measurements, ensuring effective dirt and debris removal.
Shark vacuums also offer strong suction capabilities, particularly with their DuoClean technology, which combines a bristle brushroll and a soft roller to effectively clean both carpets and hard floors. The Shark Vertex AZ2002 provides comparable suction to some Dyson models at a lower price point.
Bissell vacuums, while generally less powerful than Dyson or Shark, still provide sufficient suction for everyday cleaning tasks. Models like the Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Rewind are designed with specialized brushrolls and tools to effectively lift pet hair from various surfaces.
Filtration
Dyson excels in filtration, with many models featuring whole-machine HEPA filtration systems that capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This makes them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers and pet owners concerned about dander and allergens.
Shark vacuums also offer HEPA filtration, effectively trapping dust, pollen, and pet dander. Their sealed systems ensure that allergens are not released back into the air during cleaning.
Bissell vacuums employ SmartSeal Allergen Systems to trap allergens and dust. While not always HEPA-certified, these systems provide effective filtration for most households with pets.
Brushroll Design
Dyson’s motorized brush heads are designed to agitate carpet fibers and effectively remove embedded dirt and pet hair. Some models also feature tangle-free turbine tools for cleaning upholstery and stairs.
Shark’s self-cleaning brushroll technology is a standout feature, preventing hair wrap and ensuring consistent cleaning performance. The DuoClean system further enhances their versatility, allowing them to seamlessly transition between carpets and hard floors.
Bissell offers a variety of brushroll designs, including tangle-free brushrolls and specialized pet tools. Their focus on multi-surface cleaning makes them a good choice for homes with a mix of flooring types.
Additional Features
Dyson vacuums often include advanced features like Ball technology for easy maneuverability and LCD screens for displaying cleaning modes and maintenance alerts.
Shark vacuums offer innovative features like lift-away canisters for portable cleaning and LED headlights for illuminating dark areas.
Bissell vacuums focus on practical features like rewind cords and specialized pet tools, making them user-friendly and convenient.
Battery Life (Corded Vacuums)
Since these are corded vacuums, battery life is not applicable. All models offer long power cords, typically ranging from 25 to 35 feet, providing ample reach for cleaning large areas.
Software and User Experience (Not Applicable)
Corded vacuum cleaners do not typically include software or app integration. User experience is primarily determined by the design, ease of use, and features of the physical product.
Comparison to Competitors
Dyson vs. Shark
Dyson vacuums offer superior suction power and filtration, making them ideal for allergy sufferers and those seeking the deepest clean. However, they come at a premium price. Shark vacuums provide a good balance of performance and features at a more affordable price point, with innovative brushroll designs that excel at handling pet hair.
Dyson vs. Bissell
Dyson’s advanced technology and powerful performance justify their higher price tag, while Bissell offers excellent value for money, particularly for targeted cleaning tasks like stain removal and pet mess cleanup.
Shark vs. Bissell
Shark vacuums offer a more modern design and a wider range of features compared to Bissell. Bissell focuses on practicality and affordability, making them a good choice for budget-conscious consumers who need a reliable pet-focused vacuum.
Pros and Cons
Dyson
Pros:
- Exceptional suction power
- Advanced HEPA filtration
- Durable build quality
Cons:
- High price point
- Can be heavy and bulky
Shark
Pros:
- Innovative brushroll designs
- Good suction power
- More affordable than Dyson
Cons:
- Build quality may not be as premium as Dyson
- Some models can be noisy
Bissell
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Specialized pet-focused features
- User-friendly design
Cons:
- Suction power may not be as strong as Dyson or Shark
- Less advanced filtration
Value for Money
- Dyson: If you prioritize top-of-the-line performance and advanced features and are willing to pay a premium, Dyson offers excellent value.
- Shark: For those seeking a balance of performance, features, and price, Shark provides a compelling option. Their innovative brushroll designs and user-friendly features make them a great choice for pet owners.
- Bissell: If you are on a budget and need a reliable vacuum for pet hair and messes, Bissell offers the best value. Their specialized pet-focused models provide effective cleaning at an affordable price.
Verdict
Choosing the right vacuum cleaner for pets depends on your specific needs and budget. Dyson offers unparalleled performance and advanced features, making them ideal for those who demand the best. Shark provides a great balance of performance and innovation at a mid-range price point. Bissell delivers excellent value for money, particularly for targeted cleaning tasks and budget-conscious consumers.
Ultimately, the “best” choice depends on your individual circumstances. Consider your budget, the type of flooring in your home, the severity of your pet’s shedding, and any specific cleaning needs you may have.
