Keeping your home clean becomes much easier with a good vacuum cleaner. However, with countless models and brands in the market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming—especially if you have pets. Pet fur, dander, and occasional messes add extra challenges, making it important to find a vacuum cleaner that suits your specific needs.

In this article, we will discuss 7 things to consider when buying a vacuum cleaner for home and pets:

1. Purpose or Type of Vacuum Cleaner

The first step is to understand the primary purpose of the vacuum cleaner. Are you focusing on general home cleaning, pet hair removal, or tackling specific surfaces like hardwood floors or carpets? Consider the different vacuum cleaner types based on your needs:

• Upright Vacuum Cleaner: Ideal for deep cleaning carpets and removing pet hair.
• Canister Vacuum Cleaner: Easy to manoeuvre, perfect for cleaning stairs and tight spaces.
• Robot Vacuum Cleaner: Convenient for automated daily cleaning, though less effective for deep cleaning.
• Handheld Vacuum Cleaner: Great for spot-cleaning pet beds, furniture, and car interiors.

The type of pet you own also matters. Long-haired breeds like Golden Retrievers or Huskies require a vacuum with specialised attachments for handling thick fur. On the other hand, for smaller pets or short-haired breeds, focus on models with good manoeuvrability to reach tight spaces.

2. Suction Power

Suction power is key for tackling pet hair, dust, and dander. Vacuums like the Forbes Cordless Zerobend Z21WM offer adjustable suction modes—Eco, Standard, and Turbo—perfect for cleaning everything from delicate curtains to thick carpets. Its innovative ZeroBend technology bends 180° for tangle-free, floor-to-ceiling cleaning, while cyclonic technology ensures deep cleaning. Features like Auto Hair Detangler, versatile accessories, and an LCD display enhance efficiency, making it a powerful, all-in-one cleaning solution.

3. Filters in the Vacuum Cleaner

Pets can bring allergens into your home but vacuums with HEPA filters, like the Forbes Robo Vac N Mop Nuo, trap up to 99.97% of allergens, improving air quality—essential for allergy sufferers. Its multistage filtration, easy maintenance, and advanced Gyro 2.0 navigation with 12 smart sensors ensure precise, systematic cleaning while avoiding collisions. Ideal for wooden, tile, and carpeted floors, it offers 4 mopping modes, edge and spot cleaning, auto-clean, self-charging, and voice control with Alexa or Google Assistant.

4. Wet and Dry Vacuum Options

Pet messes aren’t always dry—think muddy paw prints or an accidental spill. Wet and dry vacuum cleaners offer the versatility to handle both types of messes. These vacuum cleaners are especially helpful for pet owners dealing with frequent cleaning challenges. However, they tend to be larger, so ensure you have the space to store one before committing.

5. Noise Level

Pets can be sensitive to noise, and a loud vacuum may cause anxiety or stress. If your pet is particularly skittish, consider a vacuum designed to operate quietly. Noise levels are often listed in decibels (dB), so look for a model with lower ratings. Many manufacturers, such as Forbes, offer a “silent mode” feature in their vacuums, providing an excellent balance between performance and pet comfort.

6. Corded or Cordless

Deciding between a corded and cordless vacuum comes down to convenience and cleaning area size. Corded vacuums often offer more consistent power and are suitable for larger homes. On the other hand, cordless vacuums provide greater flexibility and are ideal for quick cleanups or smaller spaces. Consider the battery life of cordless models and ensure they can handle your cleaning needs without frequent recharging.

7. Price and Budget

Vacuum cleaners come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced features. While it’s tempting to save money, investing in a vacuum that suits your specific needs can save you time and frustration in the long run. For pet owners, it’s worth spending a bit more on models with specialised attachments, strong suction, and durable filters.

When shopping for a vacuum cleaner, consider these key factors to ensure it meets the needs of your home and pets. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy a cleaner space and a happier, healthier environment for both you and your furry companions.