The best vacuums for cleaning pet beds and blankets
If you’re a pet owner, you know that cleaning up after your furry friend is a never-ending task. Pet beds and blankets, in particular, tend to attract and trap large amounts of pet hair, dirt, and dander, making them one of the hardest areas to keep clean.
I see this firsthand, with our two cats. Over time, their beds get so furry and covered in questionable stains (mud from outside, food dribble, and more). Cleaning them can be a challenge, and I find myself unable to remove all the hair, which then only clogs up the washing machine if I attempt to put their beds in there.
That’s why I’m here to take a look at some of the best pet vacuum cleaners to make the task a little easier. I’ll explore the key features and techniques that make a pet vacuum perfect for tackling these pet-friendly spaces.
1. You need powerful suction
Pet hair is stubbon, and really does get stuck into the fibres of their beds and our sofa. This is why you need to get a hoover that has powerful suction that’s able to really get those hairs out. Cordless vacuums may sometimes not have enough suction to do this, so consider a corded one. We have a Miele and have had it a while and absolutely love it.
Pet hair can work its way deep into the fabric, so even if you think you’ve got it all, you probably haven’t, and so this strong suction is a must.
2. Consider what special attachments you need
Standard vacuum nozzles aren’t always the best fit for cleaning soft, plush materials like pet beds and blankets.
This is where specialised attachments come into play. Home Dyson vacuums often come with a variety of attachments that are designed specifically for fabric and upholstery. A motorised pet hair tool or upholstery attachment, for example, can help agitate the surface, loosening embedded hair and dirt for better removal. A crevice tool can be useful for getting into the corners and edges of pet beds, where hair tends to collect.
I sometimes find it’s easier to first go over the bed with a lint remover, too, collecting all the hair into balls before removing it with a powerful vacuum.
3. Look into brush rolls to prevent tangling
One of the most common issues when vacuuming pet hair from blankets and beds is the tendency for the hair to get caught in the vacuum’s brush roll.
A vacuum that’s designed to handle pet hair will often come with a tangle-free or self-cleaning brush roll, which prevents hair from wrapping around the brush and clogging it. This feature not only ensures efficient cleaning but also reduces the amount of maintenance you’ll need to perform on your vacuum. If your vacuum doesn’t have a self-cleaning brush roll, be sure to regularly check and clean it to maintain optimal performance.
4. Choose a hoover with HEPA filtration for allergen control
Pet beds and blankets are hotspots for allergens like dander, which can easily become airborne during cleaning. For homes with allergy sufferers, choosing a vacuum with a HEPA filter is essential.
HEPA filters trap small particles, such as pet dander and dust mites, preventing them from being released back into the air as you vacuum. This ensures that not only are you removing pet hair from your pet’s bed and blankets, but you’re also improving the overall air quality in your home.
5. Ensure the vacuum is lightweight and manoeuvrable
When cleaning pet beds and blankets, you need a vacuum that’s easy to move and manoeuvreover different surfaces. Pet beds are often located in tight spaces, and blankets can be bulky to clean.
A lightweight vacuum that’s easy to carry and flexible enough to reach tight corners will make this task much easier. Vacuums with adjustable suction settings are also beneficial, as you can lower the suction for delicate fabrics like blankets, preventing them from getting sucked into the vacuum.
6. Think about handheld add ons
If you’re looking for an easy way to keep your pet’s bed and blanket clean without dragging out a full-sized vacuum, consider handheld vacuums designed for pet hair.
These smaller vacuums are perfect for spot cleaning and getting into tight spaces. Many handheld ones offer powerful suction in a compact design, and some even come with attachments like pet hair brushes or upholstery tools to help lift hair from soft surfaces. They’re a great option for quick cleanups and regular maintenance between deep cleaning sessions.
Keep your pet’s space fresh and clean!
Cleaning pet beds and blankets doesn’t have to be a difficult or time-consuming task when you have the right vacuum for the job. With powerful suction, specialised attachments, and features like tangle-free brush rolls and HEPA filters, these vacuums are designed to tackle pet hair and dirt on fabric surfaces.
Whether you opt for a full-sized vacuum with all the attachments or a handheld model for quick spot cleaning, choosing the right vacuum will help keep your pet’s space fresh and clean.
Want to make sure your pet’s bed and blankets stay hair-free and comfortable? With the right vacuum, you’ll be able to maintain a cleaner home and give your furry friend a fresher, cosier space to relax.
