Pet Hair Removal Robots

Best Robotic Vacuum for Pet Hair 2022: Roomba vs. the Rest

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Looking for the best robot vacuum for pet hair?

You’ve come to the right place.

This buying guide will help you find the best robotic vacuum for pet and dog hair that meets your needs and budget – in 5 minutes or less.


What’s In This Guide

On this page you’ll find a table comparing the very best robot vacuums for pet and dog hair sold today, with our top picks noted for most people’s needs.

Following the table, we review each cleaner in detail.

At the bottom of the page there’s an in-depth buying guide with answers to frequently-asked questions about robotic vacuums for pet hair, dog hair and allergies.

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Best Robot Vacuums for Pet & Dog Hair: Top Picks Compared

All of our top picks in the table below are unique in some way. Some sweep and mop, some can be controlled via your smartphone, some clean only one room while others clean an entire floor.

If you suffer from allergies, then note that half of the vacuums below incorporate HEPA air filters – an absolute must if you want to survive allergy season!

Roomba i7+
  • Roomba i7+

  • Star rating
  • Our Top Pick
  • Run time:
    2 hours

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    3 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries:
    Virtual wall

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    500ml

  • Full bin indicator

iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) Robot Vacuum
  • Roomba s9+

  • star rating
  • Best for carpet
  • Run time:
    About an hour

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    2 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries: App no-go zones

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    400ml

  • Full bin indicator

Neato Botvac D6 Connected vacuum
  • Neato Botvac D6 Connected

  • star rating
  • Best Value
  • Run time:
    2 hours

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    2.5 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries:
    Virtual Wall via app

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    700ml

  • Full bin indicator

SHARK ION R85 robot vacuum
  • SHARK ION R85

  • star rating
  • Powerful
  • Run time:
    1 hour

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    3 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries:
    Floor strips

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    600ml

  • Full bin indicator

eufy Boost IQ RoboVac 11S
  • eufy Boost IQ 11S

  • star rating
  • Great Price!
  • Run time:
    100 minutes

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    5-6 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries:
    None

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    600ml

  • Full bin indicator

 

 

Roomba 690
  • Roomba 690

  • star rating
  • Most Proven Single-Room Cleaner
  • Run time:
    1.5 hours

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    2 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries:
    Virtual Mall

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    600ml

  • Full bin indicator

Roomba 890
  • Roomba 890

  • star rating
  • Great Multi-Room Cleaner
  • Run time:
    1.5 hours

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    2 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries:
    Virtual Mall

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    300ml

  • Full bin indicator

iLife V3S Pro
  • iLife V3S Pro

  • star rating
  • Excellent Value
  • Run time:
    100 minutes

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    5 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries:
    None

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    300ml

  • Full bin indicator

ECOVACS DEEBOT N79S
  • Ecovacs DEEBOT N79S

  • star rating
  • Cheapest Alexa-Compatible
  • Run time:
    2 hours

  • Recharge and resume

  • Charging time:
    4 hours

  • Wi-Fi

  • Remote

  • Side brush

  • Boundaries:
    None

  • HEPA

  • Debris bin:
    450ml

  • Full bin indicator

Best Robotic Vacuums for Pet & Dog Hair: Reviews

1. Roomba I7+: Best Robot Vacuum for Pet & Dog Hair (Our Top Pick)

Roomba i7+

Latest Amazon Price

If you love the hands-free vacuuming that a Roomba provides but hate that you have to keep emptying the bin, the Roomba i7+ is here to save you that trouble.

The i7+ is the latest vacuum cleaner from iRobot. It is also the most advanced.

The most notable upgrade is the automatic dirt disposal system.

After it finishes vacuuming, the i7+ goes back to its docking station where collected debris is sucked out and into the Clean Base.

The Clean Base can hold up to 30 bins worth of debris, meaning you can go for weeks without emptying it. And because the dirt is held in a disposable bag, you never have to touch the dirt and debris.

This new Roomba also comes with more power, better smarts, and improved cleaning performance overall.

The only downside is the price.

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FEATURES

Roomba i7+

The automatic bin-emptying system is not the only new feature in the Roomba i7+.

For the first time in a Roomba, you can now also access an interactive map through the app.

In previous models the robot generated a map did not let you label different rooms or send the robot to clean a specific room.

This is now possible in the i7+ thanks to the improved iAdapt 3.0 navigation system and the camera-powered vSLAM system.

You can even specify which rooms the vacuum will clean on specific days.

The i7+ stores up to 10 unique floor maps, which is handy for multilevel homes.

In terms of cleaning performance, the i7+ boasts more powerful suction, re-designed dual roller brushes, and a side brush.

It picks up dog and cat hair easily on all types of floors, including carpets and rugs.

Unlike most robot vacs, it deep cleans the carpet rather than just picking the hair and debris on the surface.

Like most Roombas, you can send Alexa or Google Assistant voice commands to the i7+ using a smart home speaker or your smartphone.

LIMITATIONS

You probably already suspect this, but the i7+ is pricey. It is the most expensive model in the Roomba lineup.

But considering the new upgrades and the improved cleaning performance, the price tag is not surprising.

As has happened with other Roombas, the price will come done in a few months.

Also related to price, there is the matter of ongoing costs. You have to buy the 3-pack replacement bags every few months. Each pack costs about $17.

Beyond the money, there are complaints that the Dirt Disposal System is loud, almost as loud as an upright vacuum cleaner.

It will take some getting used to, both for your family and pets.

SUMMARY

Roomba i7+

The Roomba i7+ is the best robot vacuum cleaner for those who are looking for their first robo vac or upgrading from an older model.

PROS

  • Excellent cleaning performance; picks up hair and other allergens with ease
  • Lots of smart features, including voice commands and smart navigation
  • The interactive map makes it easier to control movement and schedule
  • Automatic debris emptying
  • Easy maintenance; no debris to empty for weeks

CONS

  • Expensive; ongoing expenses add to the initial cost
  • Dirt disposal system is loud

2. Neato Botvac D6: Best Alternative to a Roomba

Neato Botvac D6 Connected

Latest Amazon Price

If you are looking for a less expensive Roomba alternative, the Neato Botvac series is a great choice.

The Botvac D7 is the top-of-the-line model from Neato, directly competing against the Roomba 980 and the new Roomba i7+.

The Botvac D6 slots in just below the D7. It comes with some of the smart features found in the i7+, including voice commands and floor mapping.

When it comes to cleaning performance, the Botvac D6 does not disappoint. Neato says it was designed with pet owners in mind, and they optimized it to pick hair, dander, and allergens.

Definitely check out the D6 if you are looking for a full-featured multi-room cleaner you can control and monitor remotely.

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FEATURES

Neato Botvac D6

All Neato Botvac robot vacuums have a protruding disk on top which contains a LIDAR module, the laser-based navigation system the D6 and other Botvacs use to map the floor and avoid obstacles.

Using the LIDAR system, the Botvac D6 generates a map of your home layout as it cleans.

You can then access this map on the app and use it to designate no-go zones where you do not want the robot to vacuum.

If you have multi-story home, the robot can store up to three different floor plans.

The Botvac D6 does a great job picking up dog and cat hair on carpets and hard floors.

The extra-wide rolling brush underneath picks up more hair than other robot vacuums. It also does not struggle as much with long hairs, a problem for most robots.

A side brush sweeps in dirt hiding along the edges and in corners.

The signature D-shape of Botvac vacuums is a big help when it comes to cleaning corners.

Unlike the rounded edge of most robot vacs, the flat edge of this Botvac runs flush against the wall to pick up more hair and debris.

Suction power is not too shabby. The D6 can deep-clean most low-pile carpets. Turn on Turbo Mode for better performance on thicker carpets.

In terms of smarts, the Botvac D6 provides easy remote control via their smartphone app. You can also send voice commands from Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

LIMITATIONS

As is the case with most Wi-Fi vacuums, set up can be a hassle. You may have to try several times before you are able to connect the robot to your home network and your phone.

The manual has a helpful troubleshooting section, and you can always contact customer support.

One other thing to expect is a slight learning curve.

You have to monitor the robot closely during the first few cleans. It tends to get tripped easily by carpet fringes, furniture legs, and other obstacles.

You may have to rearrange a few things until you can comfortably leave the robot to clean without worrying it will get trapped.

SUMMARY

Neato Botvac

If you want the power and performance of a Roomba without paying a fortune, the Botvac D6 is a great choice.

PROS

  • Great value for money; much cheaper than a top-end Roomba but cleans almost as well
  • Excellent cleaning performance on all surfaces, including fairly thick carpets
  • Wide roller brush picks up a lot of hair
  • Virtual no-go lines make it easy to limit where the robot goes
  • Alexa and Google Assistant compatible

CONS

  • Takes time to set up
  • There a learning curve for new owners

3. Roomba s9+: Best Robot Vacuum for Cleaning Pet Hair on Carpet 

 

best robot vacuum for pet hair

Latest Amazon Price

Most robot vacuums can easily pick pet hair from the floor. Where many run into trouble is on the carpet. 

If you have a carpet, especially a thick or shaggy carpet, we recommend the Roomba s9+. It is one of the most powerful robot vacuums. 

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Features

roomba for pets

Wide dual rubber brushes loosen and pick up pet hair from the carpet without tangling. The powerful suction (40 times more powerful than 600 series Roombas), ensures all pet hair and any debris ends up inside the bin. A high efficiency filter keeps pet dander, hair and allergens from escaping back into the air. 

And because the s9+ is self-emptying, you don’t need to keep emptying the bin. Once the bin fills up, the Roomba will automatically navigate to the Clean Base and empty its bin. The Clean Base holds up to 2 months of debris. 

We love how customizable the s9+ is. You can set it on an auto-vacuuming schedule, send it to clean specific rooms or areas where your pets shed most, and configure no-go zones from the iRobot home app.   

Limitations

The biggest issue with the s9+ is the price. Though we do think it’s worth the price tag, it’s probably not the best choice if you are shopping on a budget. 

Another issue is the noise. When set at max suction, it gets fairly noisy. Luckily, you only need to increase suction when it’s vacuuming the carpet. 

Also, expect a fair amount of noise for a few seconds when the vacuum empties its bin into the clean base.

Summary 

Pets and carpet are a high-maintenance mix. The Roomba s9+ makes keeping the carpet free of pet hair so much easier. Yes, it is pricey, but it’s worth it. 

Pros

  • Powerful suction – has no trouble picking dog and cat hair from the carpet. 
  • D-shaped design improves vacuuming along walls and in corners. 
  • Smart mapping. 
  • Custom cleaning and no-go zones. 
  • Self-emptying bin. 

Cons

  • Noisy. 
  • Pricey.

4. Shark Ion R85: Most Cleaning Power For The Money

SHARK ION Robot Vacuum R85

Latest Amazon Price

You no longer have to spend a lot of money to get a robot vacuum with a decent amount of power and smart features.

For roughly a quarter, the cost of a Roomba i7+, the SHARK ION R85 is powerful enough to vacuum hair and other debris on all kinds of floors. A-MAX mode delivers even more power for enhanced performance on carpets and rugs.

It comes with remote app control as well as voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant, features normally reserved for $500+ vacuums.

For the price, there are some sacrifices you have to make. Most notable is the lack of a navigation system, meaning the R85 cleans slower and is best suited for small and medium-sized apartments.

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FEATURES

SHARK ION R85 features

The R85 is not quite as powerful as a Roomba i7+. Still, or its price, it is surprising how well it picks up pet hair and debris.

A self-cleaning brush roll collects hair and pushes it inside the bin while side brushes sweep in dust and debris from corners and along the edges.

The suction is powerful enough for cleaning a low-pile carpet.

Turn on Max mode, and it can tackle a medium-thick carpet as well.

The R85 does not exactly have a smart navigation system. It will not map your home.

Instead, it has what Shark calls Smart Sensor Navigation 2.0. This makes it better at sensing and evading obstacles as it cleans.

If you want to limit movement to a certain area, use the included 8-foot BotBoundary strip.

This is not as convenient as making virtual no-go zones in an app or using Roomba’s virtual wall barrier, but it will do.

The Shark ION R85 is WiFi-connected so you can control it remotely from your smartphone.

You can also send voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant either your phone or a smart speaker.

LIMITATIONS

The lack of a navigation system limits the R85’s cleaning efficiency. It moves around your home in a random path and sometimes leaves spots uncovered.

If you have a large home, this is not the best vacuum cleaner. The Roomba i7+, s9+ or Botvac D6 with efficient multi-room navigation would be a better choice.

Another issue mentioned by many verified owners is noise. You will probably want to schedule cleanings when everyone is away from home.

When you are at home, turn on quiet mode to reduce noise levels. Unfortunately, quiet mode also lowers the cleaning performance.

SUMMARY

SHARK ION

The Shark ION R85 gives you the best cleaning power for your money. You also get smart features that are uncommon at this price point.

This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and smart robot vacuum on a budget.

PROS

  • Great value for money
  • Easily picks up dog and cat hair and debris
  • Voice commands and remote app control
  • Multiple modes to suit different situations
  • Dual side brushes – most robot vacuums have one side brush
  • Large capacity bin

CONS

  • Not ideal for large homes or complicated multi-room cleaning
  • Noisy when in normal and Max mode

5. Eufy Boost IQ Robovac 11S (Slim): Best Robot Vacuum For People Who Work At Home

eufy Boost IQ RoboVac 11S

Latest Amazon Price

The Eufy Boost IQ RoboVac 11s is another great choice if you are looking for a reasonably-priced yet powerful vacuum for dog hair.

The Robovac 11s also a great choice if you are at home most of the day or do not care much for smart features like app control and voice commands.

This is because the 11s has no smartphone control or wireless connectivity – this is an old-fashioned vacuum with an old-fashioned remote control.

Which also makes it really simple and easy to live with – and the price is tough to beat.

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FEATURES

eufy Boost

The first thing you notice about the RoboVac 11s is how slim it is. At just 2. 85 inches high, this is one of the thinnest robot vacs you can buy.

This is not just for aesthetics, the extra-low profile gives the 11s a big advantage when it comes to cleaning.

It can duck under places other vacuums cannot go. You do not have to worry about dust and hair accumulating under the couch or bed.

With 1300pa of suction power, the 11s is powerful enough to pick up dog hair, dust, food crumbs, and other debris from any kind of flooring.

When cleaning hard floors, the side brushes help sweep in dirt from the edges.

When it gets on a carpet, it automatically increases the suction power for a better clean — Eufy calls this Boost IQ Technology.

A triple-filter system captures all the debris, including tiny allergens like dust and pollen.

The 11s has no smart navigation, so we do not recommend it for multi-room cleaning in large homes.

But it can easily find its way back to the dock when the battery dies down.

It also has no remote app control or voice commands. The only option is the included remote control.

You can turn the robot on/off, select a cleaning mode, send the 11s back to the dock, or set an auto-cleaning schedule.

LIMITATIONS

If you want a robot vac, you can control and monitor when you are at the office or on vacation; the RoboVac 11s is not it.

This is because it has no Wi-Fi connectivity so you cannot control it remotely.

Of course, that does not affect its cleaning performance.

But one issue that does affect the cleaning performance of the Robovac 11s is its inability to sense black floors and carpets. The cliff sensors that prevent the robot from falling down the stairs may also see a black floor as a drop-off, which stops the robot in its tracks.

One easy solution is to tape over the sensor, but that can send the robot tumbling down the stairs.

SUMMARY

eufy Boost IQ 11S

The RoboVac 11s is a great choice for those who want a no-frills, low-cost robot vacuum cleaner that picks up pet hair and dirt.

PROS

  • Affordable
  • Powerful suction – picks up hair with ease
  • Multiple cleaning modes
  • Scheduling function
  • The slim design makes it easy to vacuum under furniture

CONS

  • Has trouble with black floors
  • No remote app control or voice commands

6. Roomba 690 / 650 / 655: Most Proven Single-Room Pet/Dog Hair Vacuum

Vacuum Cleaner Under Bed

Latest Amazon Price

The iRobot Roomba 650 and its latest incarnation the Roomba 690 are two of the best-selling robot vacs of all time and for a good reason.

The Roomba 650 / 690 is a value-conscious purchase for cleaning one room at a time.

It does not have all the features of more recent cleaners, but it does the job that it was designed to do and is a really reliable appliance, something that most robo vacs of its era cannot claim.

The price on this series has come down quite a bit, so if you are sold on buying a Roomba and you only need to clean one big open plan room, then definitely look at the 650/655/690 series.

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FEATURES

The 650 and 690 use a multi-stage cleaning system that will first agitate the floor and then suction it clean. You can press a button to start the cleaning process, or you can schedule automatic cleanings to occur at your convenience.

The 690 adds Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone app integration so you can schedule and activate the unit on the go.

The iAdapt navigation system used in this line relies on a visual camera to navigate quickly and efficiently throughout a single room.

The vacuum will also not tumble down the stairs, as it will identify and avoid stairs and other drop-offs.

LIMITATIONS

The 650 / 690 is considered the base model Roomba, and because of this, it lacks features that are found in newer models. The Roomba will require you to clean the brushes and dust bins frequently.

Another consumer complaint is that it does not always clean the corners of the room, it struggles with high-pile shag carpet, and it struggles with larger pieces of debris.

SUMMARY

The Roomba 650 / 690 is one of the bestselling robo vacuums for a reason. It comes with all of the features that you need, but maybe not all of the features that you want.

It can only clean one room at a time, for example.

On the other hand, buying this unit will save you a lot of money, and the Roomba 650/655/690 series has proven itself as a highly reliable cleaning appliance.

7. Roomba 890: Best Value (Multi-Room)

Best Roomba for Pet Hair

Latest Amazon Price

What I love about intelligent vacuum cleaners like the Roomba 890 is that they can clean multiple rooms without having to move them from room to room manually.

The 890 is one of the least expensive intelligent vacuums that can clean multiple rooms.

This makes it a perfect budget buy for working people who aren not home that much or travel for a living.

Using the included dual-mode virtual wall barrier, you can keep the robot from entering certain rooms or areas.

Because the 890 is a Wi-Fi-connected device, you can also tell it when to clean using the iRobot HOME app. You can also set an automated daily cleaning schedule while you are out of town.

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FEATURES

So, what makes the 890 so good at vacuuming dog and cat hair?

For one, the dual multi-surface and tangle-free cleaning brushes. As the robot moves about on different floor surfaces, they sweep up dust and pet hair for easy vacuuming.

The robot can adjust the height of the brushes to cater to both hard and carpeted flooring.

The brushes are also handy for edge-cleaning. They can reach hair and debris hiding along the wall edges and in corners.

Another important feature that boosts the 890’s hair cleaning capability is its suction power.

According to iRobot, the AeroForce suction system is five times more powerful than the AeroVac system used in 600 and 700 series Roombas.

The extra power boost is especially handy when cleaning carpets.

Finally, the 890 uses a high-efficiency filter that can capture even the tiniest bits of pet dander, dust, and other allergens.

LIMITATIONS

The main issue I have with the 890 is the small-ish dust bin. If you have several pets or your pet sheds a lot, you will empty the bin a lot. That said, it only takes less than a minute to remove the bin, clean it, and put it back.

The other issue owners of the 890 complain about is the robot sometimes has difficulty docking. But this only happens occasionally (make sure you set up the charging base correctly on a flat area with no obstacles).

SUMMARY

The Roomba 890 is a mid-range robo vac with powerful suction, high-performance brushes, intelligent navigation, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

The 890 is a solid affordable option for those with pets that shed a lot of hair.

PROS

  • An affordable intelligent robot
  • Can vacuum multiple rooms on a single level
  • No problem cleaning dog and cat hair
  • Remote app control via WiFi

CONS

  • Small bin
  • Occasionally has trouble finding the charging base

8. ILife V3S Pro: Best Value For Hardwood Floors

Best Roomba for Pet Hair

Latest Amazon Price

Who said you have to spend hundreds of dollars to get a good robot vacuum cleaner?

Yes, pricier Roombas have lots more features and provide a deeper clean.

But many bargain robot vacs will cost you less than half the price of a Roomba and clean equally well on hard surfaces, where brushes and suction power are not as important.

The iLife V3s Pro is one of the best budget robot vacs for pet hair you can buy.

While it lacks a lot of the features of pricier robots like Wi-Fi, remote app control, and smart navigation, when it comes to actual cleaning, it does a surprisingly good job.

On the word of advice, however: do not buy this robot vacuum if you have a carpeted floor.

It lacks a rolling brush which is essential in picking up hair on carpeting. The side brushes only work well on hard flooring. On the upside, the lack of a roller brush means the vacuum will never get tangled with long dog or cat hair.

If this limitation works for you, then great – go save a few hundred dollars!

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FEATURES

Best Roomba for Pet Hair

The iLife V3s Pro has a few cleaning features that make it a good buy for someone with pets.

The spinning side brushes do a great job on tile, hardwood, and other types of hard flooring.

They sweep hair into the path of the vacuum for vacuuming.

They are especially handy along the edges and corners. The robot even has a dedicated edge/wall cleaning mode.

The suction is powerful enough for hard floors and is will pick up every bit of dust and hair on the floor it touches. A fine filter traps all this debris into a sizable bin.

There are bonus features as well to make the robot easier and more convenient to use.

It comes with remote control with which you can manually steer the robot, set a specific cleaning mode, and configure an automated vacuuming schedule.

The iLife V3s Pro also has an auto-recharge feature. When the battery goes low during cleaning, it will automatically make its way back to the charging base.

LIMITATIONS

The lack of a rolling brush is a major limitation. It prevents the V3s Pro from being useful on carpeting. Only homeowners with hard flooring will appreciate its cleaning ability.

The robot also lacks smart navigation. It will move about randomly for around 3 hours and then return to the dock. It takes longer to finish cleaning an area, and it has no multi-room cleaning capability (but it can navigate an open plan area).

Another downside is that you cannot control the robot from work or vacation. It has no Wi-Fi. But TBH, it is hard to find any vacuum in this price range with Wi-Fi.

SUMMARY

The iLife V3s Pro delivers a lot of value for very little money. As long as you use it on hard floors only, it is just as good as a Roomba when it comes to dealing with dog hair.

PROS

  • A budget vacuum with excellent value. Excellent cleaning ability on hard floors
  • Includes auto-scheduling, auto recharge, and multiple cleaning modes

CONS

  • Does not pick hair on carpets, not even low-pile carpets
  • No smart navigation; takes longer to clean

9. Ecovacs Deebot N79S: A Proven & Popular Choice

Best Roomba for Pet Hair

Latest Amazon Price

ECOVACS is another popular brand known for its budget vacuum cleaners.

Their DEEBOT N79S is one of their most popular, and for a good reason.

The N79S is one of the least expensive robo vacuum cleaners for pet hair that comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, Alexa compatibility, and smart navigation.

You will not find a more sophisticated, programmable robot cleaner at this price.

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FEATURES

The DEEBOT N79S uses a 3-stage cleaning system to pick pet hair off hard flooring and carpets.

The first stage is sweeping using the two sets of brushes under the robot.

The main V-brush picks pet hair (especially good on carpeting) while the two spinning side brushes sweep in hair and dirt into the suction path.

In the second stage, a powerful suction system vacuums up pet hair and all other debris. The suction is pretty strong, and you can crank it up even higher by turning on Max mode in the app or remote control.

The Max mode is handy on carpets where extra suction improves pick up of pet hair.

There are also a couple of other modes you can turn on depending on what type of cleaning you need.

Finally, a filter captures all the pet hair, dust, and debris and dumps it into a fairly large bin.

You can set a schedule using the smartphone app, and the robot will automatically start cleaning at that specific time.

You can also connect the robot to Alexa and control it via voice commands. Which is pretty awesome for a robot in this price range.

LIMITATIONS

Being a Wi-Fi robo vac, it takestime to set it up. It may take several tries before you manage to connect it to your home network.

But you skip the entire process if you want and use the DEEBOT N79S without Wi-Fi. Using the remote control, you can select the cleaning mode and set an auto-cleaning schedule.

Other than that, the N79s does a good job cleaning pet and dog hair from hard floors and low pile carpet.

It may occasionally get stuck and have trouble finding the charging dock, however.

SUMMARY

If you want a budget robot vacuum cleaner you can control remotely with your phone or Alexa, the DEEBOT N79S is an excellent choice.

PROS

  • A smart Wi-Fi-connected vacuum at an affordable price range
  • You can use it without Wi-Fi if you find that setup process tedious
  • Good cleaning ability on hard floors and carpeting

CONS

  • Setting up Wi-Fi is not fun
  • Occasionally gets stuck
  • Sometimes cannot find the charging base

10. Roomba 671: Best Single-Room Robot Vacuum for Pet & Dog Hair

Best Roomba for Pet Hair

Latest Amazon Price

The Roomba 671 is the entry-level robot vacuum in the Roomba series.

But it comes with some features normally reserved for pricier Roombas including Wi-Fi connectivity, Alexa compatibility, smart navigation, and Dirt Detect sensors.

This is a single-room, basic cleaner best suited for hardwood floors, tile floors, and low-rise carpet.

The 671 is the lowest-priced Roomba you can buy, so if you love the brand and do not need the extra suction power you can save hundreds by buying this one.

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FEATURES

The 671 does a good job cleaning pet hair from floors, whether hardwood or carpet.

To do this the 671 uses dual brushes: a brush roll to loosen dirt and pick up pet hair, and a side brush to sweep dirt into the path of the robot for vacuuming.

The suction is powerful enough for carpets, too.

With intelligent navigation and Dirt Detect sensors, the 671 always knows where to go. It will not miss spots and does not waste time going over the same areas more than once.

Scheduling is easy using the free iRobot HOME app.

You can also connect the robot to Alexa or Google Assistant and control it using voice commands.

LIMITATIONS

This is a budget robot vacuum. So, it is not a surprise that the battery does not last as long as other Roombas (about 90 mins). But this is actually long enough to clean most rooms in an average-sized home.

Many verified owners do complain that it is noisier than expected. I do not recommend setting it to clean at night when everyone is asleep or when you are watching TV.

SUMMARY

If you do not want to spend $500+ on a premium Roomba model, then the Roomba 671 is a good choice.

It is a bit loud, but it cleans well and comes with several smart features for added convenience.

PROS

  • An affordable robot vacuum with plenty of smart features
  • Has no problem picking up pet hair on hard floors and carpets
  • Easy to integrate into smart homes

CONS

  • A bit loud

About iRobot

The company that manufactures the Roomba is iRobot.

iRobot was founded in the year 1990 by roboticists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The vision of the company at the time was to make practical robots a reality for the everyday household. Since its start, iRobot has sold over 15 million robots throughout the world.

Irobot Was Founded by MIT Robotics TEam

The company started out creating robots that have helped save thousands of lives throughout the world in areas of conflict, have revealed harmful oil in the Gulf of Mexico, and uncovered mysteries of the pyramids.

The first robot that navigated Mars was how the company got its start.

iRobot now has over 25 years of experience in the robot industry, which is just one of the reasons why this brand is considered the innovator in robotic vacuum cleaners.

The company has had many milestones over the years. In 2005 the company released the Scooba, which was a floor washing robot. During that same year, the company became publicly traded on the Nasdaq exchange.

In 2008, the company really started focusing on its home robot vacuum line. Since then, it has launched many robot vacuums including the latest in 2015, the Roomba 980, considered the best robot vacuum on the market today.

The company also just released the Braava 380t jet, which is a mopping robot that is ideal for mopping kitchens, bathrooms, and hardwood flooring.

About Neato

Chip Laser Neato

Another top-selling brand of robotic vacuums is Neato Robotics, based in California.

Neato currently offers an XV-series and a newly released BotVac series of robotic vacuum cleaners. The company is rather small, with only about 65 employees.

Unlike the Roomba vacuum cleaners, which tend to randomly go through a room, the Neato robotic vacuums use a navigational mapping system that scans a room and then determines the best and most efficient route to take in order to clean a room.

While Neato has not been around for nearly as long as iRobot, the company has quickly created several really great robot vacuums.

Neato currently has four different models available, and each of them is direct competitor with the Roomba series.

Buying Guide: What To Look For

What You Need To Know Before Buying a Robot Vacuum for Pet Hair

If you have pets at home, you probably already know how hectic it can be to keep your floors clean.

The situation is worse if you have several pets or you have one of those high-shedding dog breeds.

You have to vacuum multiple times a day to keep the place clean.

Best Roomba for Pet Hair

A robot vacuum cleaner makes floor maintenance a breeze. Just switch on the vacuum, and it does all the work for you.

You can even set a schedule for the robot to start cleaning automatically whether you are home or not.

Robotic vacuums are especially handy if you or someone else at home has allergies or a respiratory condition like asthma.

Pet hair and dander can cause allergic reactions and aggravate respiratory problems. With a robot vacuum, it is easy to keep floors clean and allergen-free.

I recommend looking for a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. It captures even the smallest allergens and prevents them from escaping into the air.

Unique Requirements: Robotic Vacuums for Pet & Dog Hair

Dog Hair on Dark Carpet

If you own pets, then do not just buy any robotic vacuum cleaner.

Not all will meet your pet hair cleaning needs, which include:

  1. Powerful suction for easy pick up of pet hair, especially if you have a lot of carpets
  2. An anti-tangle roller brush as well as side brushes for effective vacuuming on both hard floors and carpeting
  3. A large bin that can hold lots of pet hair
  4. An ultra-fine or HEPA filter that can capture both large and fine particles
  5. A robot vacuum that is low profile enough to reach under furniture and other hidden areas where pet hair often hides out of sight

Features to Look For When Buying a Robot Vacuum for Pet & Dog Hair

1. Suction Power

KOIOS i3 Robot Vacuum Cleaner Review

This is most important if you have a carpeted area at home. Most robot vacuum cleaners will do fine on hard floors but struggle even on a low-pile carpet.

If you have hard flooring hardwood, tile, vinyl, etc. a budget model with minimum of 1000W suction power is enough.

If you have a large carpeted area plus several rugs, I recommend spending a bit more money on a capable model.

Look for those with a power boost feature that increases suction power either automatically when it detects a carpeted area or at the press of a button.

2. Roller Brushes

Brushes of Roomba 980

Do not buy a robot vacuum robot without a roller brush. Some low-cost models come with just the side brushes. These are good with dust and other debris on hard flooring but will not work with pet hair.

A roller brush is designed to pick up lots of hair as the robot moves around. It is especially important if you have rugs or a carpet at home.

3. Large Bins

If your pets shed a lot, the dust bin on your robotic vacuum is going to fill quickly. If it is too small, then you may have to empty the bin midway through the cleaning cycle.

Look for a robot vacuum with a large bin that can hold a lot of debris and pet hair. This will come in handy when you set the vacuum on a schedule and you are not there to empty it.

4. Floor Size and Type

Neato Botvac D7 robot

If you have hard flooring throughout your home, a budget robot vacuum cleaner will work fine. You do not need anything expensive or extra-powerful.

If you have a lot of carpeting, however, you will need a powerful vacuum cleaner to pick up dog and pet hair effectively because hair gets wrapped around carpet fibers.

Note: even the most powerful robot vacuum cleaners are not very effective in removing pet hair from high-pile and shag carpeting – not nearly as effective as an old corded vacuum is.

As for floor size, the features that matter most are battery life and navigation.

Most budget and mid-range robot vacuum cleaners work fine in small and mid-sized homes.

But to properly clean a single floorspace of 2,000 sqft or larger, you need a robot that can navigate that space and has a powerful battery that lasts long enough for the robot to finish cleaning.

For larger rooms and homes, you should only consider premium brands like Roomba and Neato that have smart navigation features and virtual wall/barrier technology that make it possible to clean efficiently without wasting energy. The best models for larger homes also include batteries that last 2 hours or more.

5. Price

Luckily, you do not have to spend a lot of money to get a good quality robotic vacuum cleaner for pet, dog hair, and allergies.

If you do not care much about premium features like Wi-Fi and smart navigation, you can get a good robotic vacuum for less than $300. The models in this range tend to come with basic features like scheduling and auto-recharge and tend to clean just one room at a time.

Above $300, there is a large selection of brands and models that clean pet hair quite well. All offer excellent cleaning plus some premium features like remote app control and auto-recharge and resume.

In the $600+ range, you can get a powerful multi-room robot vacuum with all the features you could want.

Cleaning Your Robot Vacuum

Parts of Neato Botvac D80

First, make sure you set up the robot as instructed in the manual. This will ensure the robot will be able to dock automatically when the battery gets low.

Before it starts cleaning, make sure the floor is clear of clutter. Even the best robot vacuum cleaners get easily tripped by small toys, electrical cords, and clothing items.

For cheaper robot vacuums without smart navigation, you might find it easier to move them manually from room to room. Close the door until the robot finishes cleaning one room.

This will prevent it from wandering around and going over the same areas multiple times.

For smarter robots, you need to set up the virtual boundaries, either using the included barriers or on the app.

Finally, keep the robot vacuum well maintained. Check the manual for instructions.

Empty the bin often, clean the brushes and filters, and frequently check that everything is in good working order.

Do not forget to replace components like the filter, brushes, and wheels as recommended by the manufacturer.

Best Vacuum for Pet Hair on Carpet

The Roomba i7+ and s9+, the Botvac D6, the Shark ION R85, and the Eufy 11s all do a great job picking up pet & dog hair on the carpet.

The Roombas and the Botvac are better for medium to high pile carpets because they have more power.

The Shark and Eufy models are good choices for low to medium pile carpets. They both have a special extra-power mode specifically for carpet vacuuming.

Frequently Asked Questions About Robot Vacuums for Pet & Dog Hair

Robotic Lawn Mowers

 

What is the best robotic vacuum for Pet Hair?

After comparing dozens of models and sifting through customer reviews, we think the Roomba i7+ is the best robotic vacuum for pet hair.

Its powerful suction, dual roller brushes, and intelligent navigation allow it to pick pet hair easily while missing few spots.

What are the critical features needed in a robot vacuum for pet and dog hair?

The most important feature is the suction power. This is especially important if you have a carpeted area in your home.

A powerful robot vacuum with the suction of at least 1000 pa will be most effective at picking up pet hair and debris.

The design of the brush system is also important. The best robot vacuums for pet hair use a roller brush plus one or two spinning side brushes.

What are the main benefits of buying a robotic vacuum?

With a traditional vacuum cleaner, you probably have to go round the house daily to clean up pet hair and dander.

If you have a heavy shedding dog, you may have to do it several times a day.

A robot vacuum saves you the trouble of manually vacuuming the floor. You can have it vacuum as often as you need.

You can even schedule it to vacuum when you are not home.

Using robot vacuums for pet hair is also very helpful if you or someone in the house has allergies because it can clean more frequently and reach areas where a stick vacuum would not, allergens do not accumulate in the air.

For the elderly and disabled, a robot vacuum makes home maintenance so much easier (and safer). You do not have to push a heavy vacuum around or carry it up to the stairs.

Do I still have to vacuum my floors if I buy a robotic vacuum?

Probably. Robot vacuums, even the expensive ones, do not do a perfect job cleaning carpets. You will need to manually vacuum occasionally for a deep clean.

A robot vacuum may also miss areas like corners or along the edges of a trimmed floor.

Even though you may still need to vacuum after buying a robot vacuum, you will definitely vacuum less frequently. Most robot vacuum owners find that they only need to manually vacuum maybe once or twice a month.

Who makes the best robotic vacuums for pet and dog hair, overall?

Roomba is the best brand of robot vacuums for pet and dog hair. Their suction is more powerful, and their dual-roller design helps them to pick up long hairs that other vacuums are unable to.

Neato Robotics also makes powerful robot vacuums like the Botvac series that are well-suited for picking up pet hair.

What is the best robot vacuum for pet & dog hair – for my money?

If you have a generous budget, then buy the new Roomba i7+. This model is loaded with new features and does a great job picking up any length of pet hair from your hard and carpeted floors.

If you want something less expensive but still powerful, the Neato Botvac D6 is a great alternative. It has almost the same power as the Roomba and most of its smart features but costs several hundred dollars less.

If you are on a budget, we recommend the Shark ION R85 (a Wi-Fi-connected model) or the Eufy Boost IQ RoboVac 11S (low cost but effective).

What is the best robot vacuum for picking up pet and dog hair from hardwood floors?

All the robot vacuums we have reviewed including Roomba 980, Roomba i7+, Eufy 11s, and ECOVACS Deebot N79S pick up pet hair with ease on hardwood floors.

Most of them have a roller brush to pick up long dog hairs and smaller side brushes to sweep in hair and dirt from the sides.

What are the best robot vacuums for pets and allergies?

The Eufy RoboVac 11s has a triple filter system, making it one of the best robot vacuums for allergies.

Top models like the Roomba i7+ and Neato Botvac D6 also do a good job collecting and filtering allergens.

What is the best robotic vacuum cleaner for picking up long pet hair?

Roomba robot vacuums generally work great in picking up long hair strands due to their dual-roller brush design. The brushes easily pick up long hairs and push them inside the vacuum.

Which is the best Roomba vacuum for pet and dog hair?

The latest model, the Roomba i7+, is the best of the bunch. The Roomba 980 and 890 are also great picks for cleaning pet hair.

About the author

Editor & Publisher, RobotsInMyHome.com

John is an engineer who loves learning about and covering the latest developments in consumer technologies - especially robotics, AI and related tech.

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