When it comes to choosing the best vacuum for pet owners, Shark and Bissell are two of the most popular brands. Both companies offer vacuums designed to tackle pet hair, dander, and allergens. In this comparison, we’ll break down how each brand fares in key areas, including suction power, filtration, attachments, and price, to help you make the best choice for your home.
1. Suction Power and Performance
- Shark: Shark vacuums are known for their strong suction and versatility across different floor types. Models like the Shark APEX DuoClean with Zero-M feature self-cleaning brush rolls that prevent hair wrap, making them particularly effective for picking up pet hair from carpets and hard floors. Shark vacuums typically come with multiple cleaning modes, making it easy to adjust suction for different surfaces or more stubborn pet messes.
- Bissell: Bissell has built its reputation on pet-friendly products. Their Pet Hair Eraser Turbo model, for example, features powerful suction with a tangle-free brush roll specifically designed for pet hair. Bissell’s vacuums often come with specialized tools for handling pet messes, such as their Pet TurboEraser Tool, which excels at cleaning upholstery, stairs, and other soft surfaces.
Verdict: Both Shark and Bissell offer excellent suction for pet hair, but Shark’s Zero-M technology provides an advantage in preventing hair wrap, reducing the need for frequent brush-roll maintenance.
2. Filtration and Allergen Control
- Shark: Shark vacuums typically come with HEPA filtration and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology, which is particularly beneficial for homes with pets. These features trap up to 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from being released back into the air. This makes Shark vacuums a great choice for pet owners with allergies or asthma.
- Bissell: Many Bissell models also feature HEPA filtration or multi-layered filtration systems that capture fine dust and allergens. For instance, the Bissell ICONpet cordless vacuum offers a high-performance filtration system designed to trap pet hair and dander effectively. Additionally, Bissell vacuums are known for their Febreze odor-eliminating filters, which help to keep pet odors under control.
Verdict: Both brands are strong contenders for filtration, but Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal gives it an edge, especially for homes that require superior air quality control.
3. Attachments and Tools for Pet Owners
- Shark: Shark vacuums typically come with a range of attachments specifically designed for pet owners. Popular tools include the Pet Power Brush for removing hair from upholstery, the Crevice Tool for tight spaces, and the Pet Multi-Tool, which works well on stairs and other surfaces. Additionally, Shark’s vacuums often feature LED headlights to highlight hidden pet hair, improving overall cleaning efficiency.
- Bissell: Bissell vacuums are known for their specialized pet tools. For instance, the Pet Hair Eraser series comes with a Tangle-Free Brush Roll, a Pet TurboEraser Tool, and a Crevice Tool with a LED light to make it easier to clean tight spaces where pet hair tends to accumulate. Bissell also offers the SmartSeal Allergen System with optional scent releases to tackle pet odors.
Verdict: Bissell offers more pet-specific attachments and tools, especially with their Tangle-Free Brush Roll and TurboEraser Tool, making it slightly better for targeting pet hair on upholstery and other surfaces.
4. Ease of Use and Maneuverability
- Shark: Shark vacuums are praised for their swivel steering and ease of use, allowing them to move smoothly around furniture and tight spaces. The Lift-Away feature on many Shark models enables users to convert the vacuum into a portable canister, making it easier to clean stairs and furniture. The self-cleaning brush rolls and bagless design also reduce maintenance hassle.
- Bissell: Bissell vacuums, particularly the ICONpet Cordless and Pet Hair Eraser, are designed for convenience. The tangle-free brush roll and lightweight designs make them easy to maneuver, especially when cleaning multiple levels or large areas. Some Bissell models also come with hands-free emptying systems, minimizing contact with dirt and pet hair.
Verdict: Shark wins for overall maneuverability and ease of use, especially with its Lift-Away feature for versatile cleaning, but Bissell offers comparable ease with their lightweight designs and tangle-free tools.
5. Price and Value
- Shark: Shark vacuums are typically priced in the mid-to-high range, but they offer excellent value considering their performance, features, and durability. The Shark Navigator and Shark Rocket series are examples of affordable yet effective models that provide strong suction and pet-friendly features.
- Bissell: Bissell vacuums generally offer a more budget-friendly option compared to Shark, particularly their Pet Hair Eraser and ICONpet Cordless models. Bissell also donates a portion of sales from its pet product lines to the Bissell Pet Foundation, which may appeal to pet owners interested in supporting a charitable cause.
Verdict: Bissell offers more affordable options for pet owners, while Shark tends to provide better overall value at a slightly higher price point with more advanced technology and build quality.
Final Verdict: Which Brand is Best for Pet Owners?
- Choose Shark if:
- You need powerful suction and self-cleaning brush rolls to handle long pet hair and thick carpets.
- You value anti-allergen features and high filtration to trap dust and dander.
- You want a vacuum with versatile attachments and easy maneuverability for multi-surface cleaning.
- Choose Bissell if:
- You’re looking for a budget-friendly option with great pet-specific tools.
- You prefer features like tangle-free brush rolls and odor-eliminating filters.
- You want to support a brand that donates to pet charities, like the Bissell Pet Foundation.
Both brands offer excellent vacuums for pet owners, but the best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. Shark tends to excel in durability and technology, while Bissell offers a more affordable, pet-focused solution with unique features like odor control and charitable contributions.