Best vacuum for high pile carpet pets

As someone who lives with both fluffy friends and plush, high pile carpets, I know the struggle is real. Pet hair, dander, and tracked-in dirt can easily disappear into those deep fibers, making your beautiful carpet look less than stellar. A regular vacuum often just skims the surface, leaving a lot behind. That’s why I dove deep to find the best vacuum for high pile carpet pets – the ones that truly dig in, suck up, and leave your floors looking fresh. After trying out various models and scrutinizing their features, I’ve rounded up a selection that I truly believe can make a difference in your home. This guide will help you navigate the options and pick the perfect cleaning companion for your unique needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo, 2 in 1 Robotic Vacuums…	View on Amazon
	Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |…	View on Amazon
	BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery…	View on Amazon
	AIRDIYA Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Super Power Suction Stick…	View on Amazon

Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner

This Eureka vacuum is a workhorse designed to tackle the toughest pet hair challenges on deep carpets without weighing you down. Its powerful suction combined with an upgraded cyclone system means it handles everything from tiny dust particles to larger debris. I found it surprisingly nimble for an upright, and its multiple height settings make transitioning between high pile rugs and hard floors a breeze. Plus, it comes with a handy set of attachments stored right on board, which is perfect for getting pet hair off furniture or out of car interiors.

Key features that stand out:
– Upgraded Cyclone System: Effectively separates larger debris, fine dirt, and microscopic dust, keeping suction strong.
– Powerful Pick-up: Penetrates deep into high pile carpet to extract embedded pet hair and dirt.
– Lightweight Design: Easy to maneuver around the house despite its robust cleaning power.
– 5 Height Settings: Adapts perfectly to various floor types, including dense shag rugs and hard floors.
– Multiple On-Board Accessories: Crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool are always at hand for versatile cleaning.

Pros:
– Excellent deep cleaning for high pile carpets.
– Lightweight design makes it easy to push and carry.
– Versatile with multiple height settings and attachments.
– Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens.
Cons:
– Requires regular cleaning of the roller brush to prevent clogs and maintain performance.

Best for: Homes with extensive high pile carpeting and multiple pets that shed a lot.

Expert Opinion: This Eureka model is a solid choice for dedicated carpet cleaning. Its powerful motor and cyclone technology are specifically designed to address embedded dirt and pet hair in deep pile, offering great value for its performance.

Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering

If you’ve got pets, Bissell is often a go-to brand, and their commitment to pet welfare (through the BISSELL Pet Foundation) is a big plus. The CleanView Swivel upright truly shines on high pile carpets thanks to its Triple Action Brush Roll, which is engineered to loosen, lift, and remove stubborn pet hair and dirt. The swivel steering is a game-changer for navigating around furniture, making what used to be a chore feel much easier. It even has Scatter-Free Technology, which means no more pushing kibble or litter around on hard floors before it gets sucked up.

Key features that stand out:
– Every Purchase Saves Pets: Supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
– Swivel Steering: Provides maximum maneuverability around obstacles and furniture.
– Triple Action Brush Roll: Designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair from carpets.
– Multi-Surface Cleaning with Scatter-Free Technology: Prevents scattering of dry pet messes on hard floors.
– Edge-to-Edge Cleaning: Reaches pet hair and debris along baseboards and in corners effectively.

Pros:
– Exceptional at picking up embedded pet hair on carpets.
– Maneuverable design makes cleaning less strenuous.
– Good for both carpets and hard floors without scattering debris.
– Supports a great cause for pet welfare.
Cons:
– The multi-cyclonic system might require more frequent filter cleaning compared to some simpler designs.

Best for: Pet owners who need powerful pet hair removal on high pile carpets and appreciate easy maneuverability around their home.

Expert Opinion: The Bissell CleanView Swivel is an excellent all-rounder for homes with pets and various floor types. Its specialized brush roll and swivel steering make it highly effective and user-friendly for deep carpet cleaning, especially with pet hair.

Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum with Handheld Options

The Shark Rocket Deluxe Pro is a fantastic choice if you need the power of an upright but crave the lightweight versatility of a stick vacuum. I was genuinely impressed by its suction – it really digs into carpets and pulls out embedded pet hair. What I love most is how easily it converts into a handheld vacuum, allowing me to clean stairs, upholstery, and even tight spots with the specialized pet tools. The LED headlights are a brilliant addition, illuminating hidden dust bunnies and pet hair lurking under furniture.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Suction: Delivers thorough deep carpet cleaning and strong pet hair pickup on all surfaces.
– Lightweight Versatility: Converts into a handheld vacuum for flexible, floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
– Perfect for Pets: Includes specialized pet tools to capture embedded pet hair effectively.
– XL Dust Cup Capacity: Allows for longer cleaning sessions without needing to empty as often.
– LED Headlights: Illuminates hidden debris and pet hair, ensuring no spot is missed.

Pros:
– Powerful suction rivaling some uprights for deep carpet cleaning.
– Extremely versatile, converting into a handheld for above-floor cleaning.
– Lightweight and easy to store.
– LED headlights reveal hidden dirt.
Cons:
– Being corded means you’re tied to an outlet, which can limit range.

Best for: Homes with a mix of high pile carpets and hard floors, where versatility and strong pet hair pickup are priorities, and space for an upright is limited.

Expert Opinion: This Shark Rocket excels in versatility and pet hair removal. While it’s a stick vacuum, its powerful suction holds its own against deeper carpets, making it a strong contender for pet owners seeking a lighter, more adaptable cleaning tool.

Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo, 2 in 1 Robotic Vacuums (iMartine)

While the main focus here is on high pile carpet, it’s important to acknowledge that robot vacuums generally excel on hard floors and low-pile carpets. The iMartine robot vacuum is a great example of a convenience cleaner, offering both vacuuming and mopping functions. Its powerful suction and tangle-free design are fantastic for daily pet hair maintenance on surfaces it can handle. It’s smart, too, with app and voice control, but it’s crucial to note its limitations for very thick, high pile carpets. Think of this as a daily upkeep tool for accessible areas rather than a deep cleaner for your shaggiest rugs.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful 2-in-1 Function: Combines 2300Pa suction and a mopping function for multi-surface cleaning.
– Smart App & Voice Control: Easy scheduling and control via Tuya Smart App, Google Assistant, or remote.
– Tangle-Free Design for Pet Owners: Brushless design prevents pet hair from getting caught, reducing maintenance.
– Ideal for Hard Floors and Low-Pile Carpets: Effectively cleans various surfaces with four cleaning modes.
– Quiet Operation: Operates below 65dB, minimizing disturbance to pets and family.

Pros:
– Automated daily cleaning for pet hair on hard floors and low-pile carpets.
– Mopping function adds extra cleanliness for hard surfaces.
– Tangle-free design is a huge plus for pet hair management.
– Quiet operation for discreet cleaning.
Cons:
– Not suitable for high pile carpets; primarily designed for hard floors and low-pile only.

Best for: Homes with mostly hard floors and some low-pile rugs, where daily, automated pet hair collection is desired without manual effort. Not recommended as the primary solution for high pile carpets.

Expert Opinion: While this robot offers fantastic convenience and pet-friendly features like tangle-free brushes for daily maintenance, its explicit limitation to “low-pile carpets” means it won’t be the best vacuum for high pile carpet pets. It’s a superb supplementary tool for homes with mixed flooring but shouldn’t be relied upon for deep pile.

Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a perennial favorite for a reason. Its Lift-Away functionality truly sets it apart, allowing you to detach the canister for easy above-floor cleaning of stairs, furniture, and tricky corners – a lifesaer for pet owners. When it comes to high pile carpets, its powerful suction and the ability to shut off the brushroll (great for preventing scattering on hard floors or delicate rugs) are impressive. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal combined with a HEPA filter is also a huge bonus, trapping 99.9% of dust and allergens, which is essential for households with shedding pets and allergy sufferers.

Key features that stand out:
– Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for portable, above-floor cleaning on stairs and furniture.
– Anti-Allergen Complete Seal + HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens within the vacuum.
– Brushroll Shutoff: Instantly switches between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor cleaning.
– Perfect for Pet Owners: Powerfully picks up pet hair and deep-cleans dander from upholstery.
– Swivel Steering: Easy maneuverability around obstacles and tight spaces.
– Extra-Large-Capacity Dust Cup: 0.87L capacity for longer cleaning sessions.

Pros:
– Versatile with the Lift-Away feature for all cleaning tasks.
– Excellent for allergy sufferers with its sealed system and HEPA filter.
– Strong suction for embedded pet hair on high pile carpets.
– Easy to maneuver and empty the dust cup.
Cons:
– Can be a bit heavy in upright mode compared to stick vacuums.

Best for: Pet owners looking for a powerful, versatile upright vacuum that effectively cleans high pile carpets, removes pet hair from all surfaces, and keeps allergens contained.

Expert Opinion: The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is consistently rated highly for its performance on pet hair and carpets. Its combination of strong suction, effective filtration, and the convenience of the Lift-Away pod makes it one of the top choices for maintaining clean high pile carpets in a pet-filled home.

BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner

Now, this isn’t a traditional vacuum cleaner, but it’s an absolute must-have for any pet owner with carpets, especially high pile ones. The BISSELL TurboClean PET is an upright carpet and upholstery cleaner (meaning it uses water and solution) designed specifically for tackling pet messes and deep stains that vacuums simply can’t handle. For me, it’s the perfect companion to my dry vacuum. After vacuuming up all the loose hair and dirt, this machine comes in to extract the ground-in grime, spills, and lingering pet odors. The 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush truly gets into the carpet fibers, and the versatile tools make cleaning upholstery messes simple.

Key features that stand out:
– Every Purchase Saves Pets: Supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
– Best Cleaning System for Pet Messes: Powerful compact carpet cleaner designed for pet-specific stains and odors.
– Versatile Tools: Includes a 7 ft hose, 4″ Self Cleanout Tool, and Spraying Crevice tool for various cleaning tasks.
– 4″ Self-Cleanout Tool: Convenient for quick stain treatment and easy tool maintenance.
– 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush: Combined with powerful suction, it removes ground-in dirt and stains from high traffic areas.

Pros:
– Exceptional for removing pet stains, odors, and ground-in dirt from carpets.
– Extends the life and freshness of high pile carpets.
– Versatile for both carpets and upholstery.
– Easy to use and maintain.
Cons:
– It is a wet carpet cleaner, not a dry vacuum for daily pet hair removal.

Best for: Pet owners who need to deep clean pet stains, eliminate odors, and refresh high pile carpets after vacuuming. This is a complementary tool, not a substitute for a dry vacuum for daily pet hair removal.

Expert Opinion: This is an indispensable tool for pet owners with carpets. While it doesn’t vacuum dry pet hair, it cleans carpets of the inevitable stains and odors left by pets. It’s the ultimate secondary cleaner to keep your high pile carpets truly pristine alongside a good dry vacuum.

AIRDIYA Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Super Power Suction Stick Vacuum

Cordless stick vacuums offer incredible convenience for quick cleanups, and the AIRDIYA is a powerful contender in that category. With an upgraded 40Kpa suction, it does a great job on lighter debris, pet hair, and crumbs. However, it’s crucial to note that this vacuum, like many stick models, is explicitly recommended for low-pile carpets, hardwood, or tile floors. While it can handle some pet hair on carpets, it won’t have the deep-cleaning capability needed for dense high pile. Its multi-functional brushes and lightweight design make it excellent for above-floor cleaning and quick sweeps, but manage expectations for deep pile.

Key features that stand out:
– Upgraded 40Kpa Suction: Two adjustable power modes for capturing various debris on hard floors and low-pile carpets.
– MAX 35-Minute Runtime: Offers good battery life for typical cleaning tasks, with a detachable, rechargeable battery.
– 6-Layer High-Efficiency Filtration System: Traps 99.99% of dust down to 0.2 microns for cleaner air.
– Multi-Functional Brushes: Comes with a 2-in-1 brush, crevice tool, and extendable wand for versatile cleaning.
– Lightweight Handheld Unit: At only 2.8 pounds, it’s comfortable for extended handheld use.

Pros:
– Strong suction for a cordless stick vacuum on suitable surfaces.
– Very lightweight and maneuverable for quick cleanups.
– Excellent filtration system for cleaner air.
– Versatile for various surfaces and above-floor cleaning.
Cons:
– Only suitable for low-pile carpets; not recommended for high pile.

Best for: Homes with predominantly hard floors and some low-pile rugs, where cordless convenience and strong suction for quick pet hair cleanups are valued. Not suitable as the primary vacuum for high pile carpet pets.

Expert Opinion: This cordless vacuum is fantastic for daily light duty and maintaining cleanliness on hard floors and low-pile carpets. Its high suction and good filtration are great, but its design and explicit recommendations mean it is not the best vacuum for high pile carpet pets for deep cleaning. It’s more of a quick-grab tool for surface pet hair.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When you’re looking for the best vacuum for high pile carpet pets, it’s crucial to understand what each type of vacuum offers.

For True High Pile Carpet Power:
If your home is dominated by dense, high pile carpets and you have shedding pets, you’ll generally want to lean towards powerful upright vacuums. The Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright and the Bissell CleanView Swivel are stellar choices here. They’re designed to apply more pressure and have robust brush rolls (like Bissell’s Triple Action Brush Roll) that really agitate and lift embedded pet hair and dirt from deep within the fibers. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away also falls into this category, offering strong suction with the added benefit of its detachable pod for targeted cleaning. These uprights often have dedicated height adjustments to optimize suction and brush performance on different carpet thicknesses.

For Versatility and Mixed Flooring:
If you have a mix of high pile carpets, low pile rugs, and hard floors, a versatile upright like the Shark Navigator Lift-Away or a powerful corded stick vacuum like the Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro could be your best bet. The Rocket, while a stick vacuum, boasts surprisingly powerful suction that can handle a decent range of carpet depths, and its conversion to a handheld is incredibly practical for pet hair on stairs and upholstery. The Navigator’s Lift-Away functionality makes it incredibly adaptable for different cleaning needs around the house.

For Daily Maintenance and Hard Floors (with Low Pile):
For light, daily pet hair cleanup on hard floors or low-pile rugs, the Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo (iMartine) and the AIRDIYA Cordless Vacuum Cleaner offer convenience. However, it’s important to re-emphasize that these two are not ideal for high pile carpets. They are fantastic for automated maintenance or quick surface cleans, but they lack the power and brushroll design to effectively deep clean thick carpet fibers. Their tangle-free or brushless designs are a huge plus for pet hair on the surfaces they can handle, though.

For Pet Stains and Odors (Not Dry Vacuuming):
Finally, the BISSELL TurboClean PET stands in a category of its own. It’s not a vacuum in the traditional sense, but a carpet cleaner that uses water and solution. For pet owners, this is an absolutely essential tool for dealing with accidents, odors, and ground-in grime that no dry vacuum can touch. Think of it as the deep-cleaning partner to your primary dry vacuum, ensuring your high pile carpets don’t just look clean, but are clean.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best vacuum for high pile carpet pets really boils down to your specific needs, the density of your carpet, and how much pet hair you’re dealing with.

For the most effective, deep-down clean on dense high pile carpets, my top recommendations are the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner and the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright. They both offer exceptional suction and brushroll power specifically designed to pull stubborn pet hair and dirt from deep fibers. The Bissell gets extra points for its superb maneuverability, while the Eureka is a powerful, lightweight workhorse.

If you need that deep cleaning power but also crave versatility for stairs and upholstery, the Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | is an outstanding hybrid option. Its Lift-Away feature makes it incredibly adaptable, and its filtration system is great for allergy sufferers. The Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum is another excellent choice for versatility and powerful pet hair pickup, especially if you prefer a lighter, more compact design and have a mix of floor types.

Remember, if your home has significant pet traffic, a dedicated carpet cleaner like the BISSELL TurboClean PET is an invaluable investment for maintaining the freshness and longevity of your high pile carpets, acting as the perfect complement to your primary dry vacuum.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: Why are high pile carpets more difficult for vacuums, especially with pets?
A1: High pile carpets have longer, denser fibers that provide more places for pet hair, dander, and dirt to get deeply embedded. Many standard vacuums lack the powerful suction or aggressive brushrolls needed to agitate these deep fibers and effectively extract the debris, often just skimming the surface.

Q2: What features should I prioritize when looking for the best vacuum for high pile carpet pets?
A2: Look for strong suction power, a motorized brush roll (preferably with adjustable height settings), anti-tangle technology for pet hair, and ideally a sealed system with a HEPA filter to trap allergens. Adjustable height settings are crucial to prevent the vacuum from “sinking” into the carpet or losing suction.

Q3: Are robot vacuums good for high pile carpet with pets?
A3: Generally, no. Most robot vacuums, including models like the iMartine reviewed here, are designed for hard floors and low-pile carpets. High pile carpets can prevent them from moving freely, tangle their brushes, or reduce their suction effectiveness, making them inefficient for deep cleaning. They’re best as supplementary cleaners for hard floors and low-pile areas.

Q4: Should I choose a corded or cordless vacuum for high pile carpet pets?
A4: For high pile carpets, corded vacuums often offer more consistent and powerful suction as they’re not limited by battery life or power. This sustained power is essential for deep cleaning embedded pet hair. Cordless options, like the AIRDIYA reviewed, are fantastic for quick cleanups on low-pile carpets and hard floors but may struggle with the demands of deep, high pile carpets.

Q5: How often should I vacuum high pile carpet with pets?
A5: To keep high pile carpets clean and manage pet hair, it’s recommended to vacuum at least 2-3 times a week. For homes with multiple shedding pets, daily vacuuming (especially with a powerful machine) might be necessary to prevent excessive build-up and keep allergens at bay. Don’t forget occasional deep cleaning with a carpet cleaner like the BISSELL TurboClean PET.

Q6: What about specific attachments for pet hair on high pile carpets or furniture?
A6: Many of the best vacuum for high pile carpet pets come with specialized pet tools. Look for a pet power brush or upholstery tool with strong bristles or a rubberized surface. These are excellent for removing pet hair from furniture, pet beds, and even car interiors where a large vacuum head can’t reach. A crevice tool is also handy for getting into tight spots.

Q7: Is bagless or bagged better for pet owners with high pile carpets?
A7: Both have pros and cons. Bagless vacuums (like most reviewed here) are convenient as you don’t buy bags, but emptying the dust cup can release dust and allergens, which might be a concern for allergy sufferers. Bagged vacuums contain allergens better during disposal but require buying replacement bags. For pet owners, a bagless vacuum with a sealed system and HEPA filter (like the Shark Navigator) can effectively contain allergens, making it a great option.