Pets are a joy to have in the house but, let’s admit it, clean up time can also be such a big hassle. And we are not talking about cleaning up after poop; we’re talking about pet hair.
So, how do you stop pet hair from destroying your vacuum cleaner?Â
Below are clear, easy steps that you can follow to help save your vacumm.Â

Several dog and cat breeds shed hair a lot. They can look gross especially if they start sticking to carpets and furniture and can even cause allergies to some people.
Thus, it is just natural for homeowners with pets to vacuum their homes on a regular basis.
However, not many people know that not all vacuum cleaners are designed to pick up pet hair. Using the wrong models can be very damaging to the motors and you could end up having to buy a new cleaner every six months.
Step 1: Choose the right type of vacuum cleaner

With hundreds of vacuum cleaners to choose from, going for the best option can be very difficult.
But, whether you opt for canisters, uprights, cordless, sticks or whatever model looks great for you, always make sure that these cleaners are specifically designed to pick up pet hair.
Although there may be cheap options available, many of them won’t usually last a long time especially when they have to constantly clean up pet hair.
 In order to avoid having to replace your unit every six months, it would be best to go for high-quality ones that can put up with the pressure of sucking vast quantities of pet hair.
Read Here: Best Cordless Vacuum for Pet Hair
Step 2: Always check the motor and suction after every use
Even if the model specifications say that they were designed for pet hair, it is still a good idea to regularly check the motor after every use. Ensure that the motors still work well and that it still has a powerful suction.Â
One of the main reasons why a vacuum cleaner loses its suction power is that the pet hairs have gotten stuck in the motors.
Clean it out and make sure that there no debris are stuck within the vacuum so that they continue to work in tip-top shape.

Step 3: Clean and replace the filters regularly
Regular filters can easily fail when dog and cat hair gets accumulated.
Some filter types maybe washable but most types of normal vacuum cleaners do not have this.
However, if you do not have these, it is recommended that you replace regular filters at least once every three to four weeks.
While it is recommended to clean out washable filters after every use, some models may require cleaning only after every three months.
Just make sure to check and monitor these parts especially if you have a lot of pets around to ensure that they continue to run perfectly.
Step 4: Properly clean other parts such as wands, hoses and brushes
Aside from the filters and the motors, pet hair can also get stuck in other parts such as wands, hoses and brushes. Regularly checking these areas do not take a lot of time so make sure to add that to your cleaning routine as well.Â
In case there are balls of pet hair and debris stuck in these areas, use a broom handle to poke it out of the hose. You can also use sticks or toothpicks to poke the tiny parts and make sure that it is clear of blockage.

Step 5: Go for a bagless vacuum cleaner if possible
Vacuums won’t be able to suck well if their bags and canisters are full so be sure that they are not yet up to capacity before using them to clean your house.
Keep the clean and free from blockage to ensure that they are at their best sucking capacity.
It is also recommended to go for vacuum cleaners that are bagless. Bagged vacuums can be a pain to use and can also cost a lot of money since it requires changing nearly every week.
On the other hand, bagless vacuums are much easier to clean and maintain and they also come with a quick release function so it isn’t a pain to take out.
Pets may be awesome since they add joy and companionship to our lives but their hairs can also be a menace to our trusty vacuum cleaners.
However, if you follow the five simple steps above, both your pet and your cleaning unit will live together in peace – and you’ll have a squeaky clean house to boot!
Take a look at vacuum attacks favourite pets vs Vacuum Video
Last Updated on March 8, 2021 by Gemma Tyler
Gemma Tyler is a freelance journalist with 15 years of experience writing for consumer publications. She has tested and reviewed a wide range of household items from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dehumidifiers to steam irons. Her attention to detail and exhaustive testing certainly makes her an expert in her field.