For rugs or carpets where pet hair gets embedded in the fibres, check the supplied brush and the vacuum’s performance on textile flooring first, rather than choosing based on the advertised power alone. A canister vacuum with a suitable brush is worth considering for longer cleaning sessions; a motorised stick vacuum is better suited to quick clean-ups, provided its runtime in the mode you use works for you. Whether you choose a bagged or bagless model then comes down to the emptying and maintenance you’re happy to take on.
If pet hair gets caught in the fibres, a head designed for textile flooring and test results on carpets matter more than simply picking up visible hair from hard floors. UFC-Que Choisir’s testing protocol for canister vacuums includes synthetic fibres designed to mimic pet hair.
A stick vacuum can be handy for cleaning up after a pet without getting out a bulky appliance. However, check its runtime in the mode you’ll use and how much storage space it needs: UFC-Que Choisir also assesses the manoeuvrability and runtime of stick vacuums.
If pet hair also collects on cushions, steps or seats, check the accessories included with the exact variant. For example, Electrolux lists a mini turbo brush among the accessories for its 800 EB81A3UG model; don’t assume it comes with a different appliance.
First, choose between a canister and a stick vacuum based on how much carpet you have and how long your cleaning sessions tend to be. Then check which accessories are actually included, followed by the maintenance involved with a bag or dust container.
Worth considering: for regular cleaning of large rugs or carpets, especially if your sessions tend to be long.
The trade-off: a cord and a bulkier appliance to move or store. The brush and results on carpets remain key considerations. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of the floorhead’s design.
Worth considering: for frequent, short clean-ups when being able to get the vacuum out and put it away quickly matters.
The trade-off: runtime depends on the mode you use. UFC-Que Choisir also notes that stick vacuums can struggle with thick rugs and carpets.
| Feature | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Embedded pet hair | Test results on rugs or carpets; the floorhead and brush supplied with the exact model. | When pet hair clings to the fibres, I want to judge how well the vacuum performs on textiles rather than rely on the motor’s wattage. Around 36% of shoppers make this a priority. |
| Quick clean-ups | Manoeuvrability, storage and runtime in the mode used on carpets. | If I often clean a small area after my pet has been through, I want to be able to get the appliance out and put it away easily. This quick access is a priority for around 29% of shoppers. |
| Other fabrics | A mini brush included or compatible with the exact model; a crevice tool for awkward spots. | Pet hair also collects on my sofa or stairs, so cleaning these surfaces matters just as much as the floor. Around 21% of shoppers prioritise these areas. |
| Maintenance | How often you need to empty it, compatible bags and how to clean the filters. | I prefer to know what I’ll need to do after vacuuming pet hair, whether that means changing a bag or emptying a dust container. Easy maintenance comes first for around 14% of shoppers. |
A power rating alone doesn’t tell you how well an appliance removes embedded pet hair from a carpet. UFC-Que Choisir points out that useful suction power and the design of the floorhead both affect the results.
Look for tests covering the type of carpet you have and check which brush comes with the variant you’re considering.
Different variants in the same range may come with different accessories. A brush sold separately also needs to fit the appliance’s connection and model reference.
Compare what’s in the box with the surfaces you need to clean, and check that any separately sold accessory is compatible before choosing it.
If the kit doesn’t cover your fabrics, you’ll need to budget for a separate compatible accessory.
A stick vacuum’s runtime varies depending on the setting and configuration. A runtime quoted for Eco mode won’t necessarily reflect a session using the brush on carpet.
Check the runtime for the suction mode you’ll use, as well as the charging time and whether the battery can be replaced.
Pet hair can wind around the roller, while a full bag or dust container will need attention. For washable parts in its bagless vacuums, Bosch says to let them dry completely before putting them back.
Check the manual for your chosen model to find out how to clean the brush, dust container and filters, or replace the bag.
The features below apply to specific models. They don’t guarantee that another variant comes with the same equipment or will perform the same on your carpet.
An option to consider if you’re looking for a bagged canister vacuum for textile flooring, depending on the variant.
An option for quick clean-ups with a stick vacuum and accessories for fabrics.
An option if you’re looking for a bagged canister vacuum with a turbo brush; check the exact model reference.
An option for cleaning both rugs and upholstery with a canister vacuum equipped for these surfaces.
These cordless stick vacuums are worth considering if you prefer frequent clean-ups on carpets and need to tackle pet hair around the home. For each one, compare the advertised brush and runtime with your textile flooring; the product specifications aren’t a substitute for test results on embedded pet hair.
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Worth considering for regular carpet clean-ups and pet hair, but check that the brush is suitable for textile flooring. The product title lists an anti-tangle brush, 550 W, 55 kPa and 55 minutes of runtime; confirm the runtime in the mode you plan to use on carpets.
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Consider this model if you want to vacuum carpets and store the appliance upright between clean-ups. The product title lists an anti-tangle brush, 60,000 Pa and up to 65 minutes of runtime; check the runtime with the brush and setting you’ll use on carpets.
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Worth considering if upright storage and dust container capacity matter to your routine. The product title lists an anti-tangle roller brush, an XL dust container, 55,000 Pa and 45 minutes of runtime; check what’s included in the kit and the runtime in the mode you’ll use on carpets.
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Consider this model for occasional clean-ups if a removable battery and upright storage suit your needs. The product title lists an anti-tangle brush and up to 60 minutes of runtime; check which accessories are included and the runtime in the mode you’ll use on carpets.
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Worth considering if a wall-mounted charging dock would make it easier to store after quick clean-ups. The product title lists an anti-tangle brush, 50,000 Pa, 550 W and up to 80 minutes of runtime; check that the supplied brush is suitable for your carpets and confirm the runtime at the required setting.
Look for results on rugs or carpets and, if possible, tests using fibres designed to mimic pet hair. UFC-Que Choisir describes this test in its protocol for canister vacuums. For a stick vacuum, make sure the results you consult relate to the model and textile flooring you’re interested in.
Compare the vacuum’s exact model reference with the accessory’s compatibility list rather than relying on the range name alone. Also check whether the mini turbo brush is included in the kit or needs to be bought separately.
Plan to empty the dust container and check the brush and filters regularly, following the model’s instructions. For cleaning its bagless vacuums, Bosch says washed parts should only be refitted once they’re completely dry; check the procedure for your appliance.