Pet hair can be a real pain to keep on top of, especially if it sticks to upholstery, stairs, or car interiors. A strong handheld vacuum makes things much easier, but not all of them are built with enough power or the right attachments to deal with fur properly. Some lose charge too quickly, others just don’t pick up much. Below, we’ve picked out five of the most powerful handheld vacuums for pet hair, focusing on suction, battery life, and how solidly each one is built.
1

Exceptional
eitton Handheld Vacuum Cleaner – Cordless Powerful Suction
What We Like
2

Exceptional
Shark WandVac 1.0 – Compact Cordless Handheld Vacuum
What We Like
3

Exceptional
Shark CH950UKT – Handheld Vacuum with Pet Tool
What We Like
4

Excellent
BLACK+DECKER Pivot 18V – Compact Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
What We Like
5

Excellent
Powools Pet Hair Vacuum – Cordless with Motorized Brush
What We Like
Can handheld vacuums really handle thick pet hair?
Yes, absolutely, as long as you pick the right one. The key is having a strong motor paired with a proper pet hair attachment. Thick fur can cling to fabric and carpets, and the right brush tool is what lifts it properly. A rotating brush or rubberised attachment can grab and pull the hair out instead of just relying on suction alone. Some of the top handheld vacuums are built specifically with this in mind, and they handle even the most stubborn fur without much fuss.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Handheld Pet Vacuum
Use the Right Attachment Every Time
Pet hair doesn’t behave the same on every surface. Use the rubber or motorised brush for upholstery and carpets, and the crevice tool for corners or under furniture. The brush helps pull the hair out instead of just moving it around.
Empty It More Often Than You Think
A full bin means less suction. And with pet hair, it fills up fast. Don’t wait until it’s packed – empty it after each use if you can. That keeps the vacuum running better and stops smells from building up.
Keep the Filter Clean
Rinse it out under warm water (if it’s washable), or tap off the dust outside if not. A clogged filter is a common reason handheld vacuums start losing their power. Mark your calendar if you need to, it’s worth staying on top of it.
Is it better to get one with a bag or without?
Most handheld vacuums for pet hair are bagless these days, and that’s usually fine. It’s quicker and easier to empty. Just make sure the dust bin opens in a clean way some models dump everything out with a puff of dust. If you have allergies, you might still prefer a bagged model, but they’re harder to find in the handheld range.