As a pet owner, you know that dealing with pet hair and dander can be a never-ending battle. Two popular vacuum cleaner brands, Shark and Bissell, claim to have the solution to your pet-related cleaning woes. But which one is better for pet owners? In this article, we’ll dive into the features, pros, and cons of both brands to help you make an informed decision.
The Importance of a Good Vacuum for Pet Owners
Pet owners face unique cleaning challenges. Pet hair, dander, and accidents can leave your home looking and smelling less than desirable. A good vacuum is essential for removing pet hair, reducing allergens, and keeping your home clean and hygienic. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one.
Key Features to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Vacuum
When shopping for a vacuum as a pet owner, there are certain features you should look for:
- Strong suction power to pick up pet hair and dander
- A HEPA filter or other allergen-trapping technology
- Easy-to-clean design and detachable parts
- A variety of attachments and tools for different surfaces and tasks
Shark: The Popular Choice for Pet Owners
Shark is a well-known brand in the vacuum cleaner market, and for good reason. Their vacuums are known for their powerful suction, innovative features, and sleek designs.
Shark’s Pet-Friendly Features
Shark vacuums are designed with pet owners in mind. They offer a range of features that make them ideal for pet owners, including:
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, which traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens
- Powerful suction to pick up pet hair and dander
- Detachable canister and variety of attachments for easy cleaning
- LED lights to help spot hidden pet hair and debris
Shark Models Ideal for Pet Owners
Some Shark models stand out as particularly well-suited for pet owners. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional and the Shark Rotator TruePet are two popular options.
| Model | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional | Detachable canister, anti-allergen complete seal technology, LED lights | $300-$400 |
| Shark Rotator TruePet | TruePet tool for pet hair removal, LED lights, detachable canister | $200-$300 |
Bissell: The Underdog with a Lot to Offer
Bissell may not be as well-known as Shark, but they’ve been around for over 140 years and have a loyal following among pet owners.
Bissell’s Pet-Friendly Features
Bissell vacuums are designed with pet owners in mind, offering features such as:
- Pet Hair Eraser tool for removing pet hair from upholstery and stairs
- Odor-absorbing filters to reduce pet smells
- Easy-to-clean design and washable filters
- Affordable price points
Bissell Models Ideal for Pet Owners
Bissell offers several models that are particularly well-suited for pet owners. The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser 33A1 and the Bissell CleanView 9595A are two popular options.
| Model | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bissell Pet Hair Eraser 33A1 | Pet Hair Eraser tool, easy-to-clean design, washable filter | $50-$70 |
| Bissell CleanView 9595A | OnePass technology for quick cleaning, easy-to-empty dirt tank, washable filter | $100-$150 |
Head-to-Head Comparison: Shark vs Bissell
So, how do Shark and Bissell stack up against each other? Here’s a head-to-head comparison of the two brands:
Suction Power
Shark wins in this category, with a more powerful suction power that can pick up even the smallest pet hairs and dander.
Filter Quality
Shark wins again, with a HEPA filter that traps 99.9% of allergens and dust. Bissell’s filters, while washable, may not be as effective at trapping allergens.
Attachments and Tools
Bissell takes the lead here, with a variety of attachments and tools, including the Pet Hair Eraser tool, that are specifically designed for pet owners.
Price
Bissell is the more affordable option, with prices starting at under $50 for their entry-level models.
Design and Ease of Use
Shark’s sleek designs and easy-to-use controls make it a winner in this category, although Bissell’s models are still relatively easy to use and maneuver.
The Verdict: Which is Better for Pet Owners?
Ultimately, the decision between Shark and Bissell comes down to your specific needs and preferences as a pet owner. If you’re looking for a more powerful suction power and a HEPA filter, Shark may be the better choice. However, if you’re on a budget and want a variety of attachments and tools specifically designed for pet owners, Bissell is a great option.
Who Should Choose Shark?
If you:
- Have a large home with multiple levels of flooring
- Suffer from allergies and need a HEPA filter
- Are willing to invest in a higher-end vacuum for better performance
Who Should Choose Bissell?
If you:
- Are on a tight budget and want an affordable option
- Need a variety of attachments and tools specifically designed for pet owners
- Prioritize ease of use and a lightweight design
In conclusion, both Shark and Bissell offer excellent options for pet owners. By considering your specific needs and preferences, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect vacuum for you and your furry friends.
What are the key differences between Shark and Bissell vacuum cleaners?
The key differences between Shark and Bissell vacuum cleaners lie in their design, features, and performance. Shark vacuums are known for their sleek and modern design, advanced features like DuoClean technology, and excellent suction power. On the other hand, Bissell vacuums are popular for their affordability, ease of use, and pet-specific features like the Pet Hair Eraser tool.
When it comes to pet owners, both brands offer unique benefits. Shark vacuums are better suited for pet owners who want a high-performance cleaner that can handle both hard floors and carpets with ease. Bissell vacuums, on the other hand, are ideal for pet owners who want a more affordable and lightweight option that’s specifically designed to tackle pet hair and dander.
Which brand is better for pet owners with allergies?
Both Shark and Bissell vacuums are designed to capture pet dander and allergens, but Shark vacuums have a slight edge in this regard. Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filters trap 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens, making them an excellent choice for pet owners with allergies. Additionally, Shark’s vacuums have a sealed system that prevents allergens from escaping back into the air.
That being said, Bissell vacuums also have HEPA filters and are designed to capture pet dander and allergens. However, they may not be as effective as Shark vacuums in this regard. If you’re a pet owner with severe allergies, a Shark vacuum might be a better investment. But if you’re on a budget, a Bissell vacuum can still provide decent protection against allergens.
Are Shark vacuums more expensive than Bissell vacuums?
Generally, Shark vacuums are more expensive than Bissell vacuums. Shark’s high-end models with advanced features like DuoClean technology and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology can range from $200 to $500. Even their more budget-friendly options usually start at around $150.
Bissell vacuums, on the other hand, are generally more affordable, with prices starting at around $50 for a basic model. Their high-end models with advanced pet-specific features usually top out at around $200. So, if you’re on a tight budget, a Bissell vacuum might be a more viable option.
Which brand has better customer support?
Both Shark and Bissell offer decent customer support, but Shark’s customer service is generally considered more comprehensive. Shark offers a 5-year limited warranty on most of their vacuums, as well as a 30-day money-back guarantee. They also have a dedicated customer support team available to answer questions and resolve issues.
Bissell, on the other hand, offers a 2-5 year limited warranty on their vacuums, depending on the model. While they also have a customer support team, some customers have reported longer wait times and less helpful representatives. However, Bissell’s customer support is still decent, and they do offer support through multiple channels like phone, email, and live chat.
Can I use my vacuum for cleaning other areas beyond pet hair and dander?
Both Shark and Bissell vacuums are designed to be versatile and can be used for cleaning other areas beyond pet hair and dander. Shark vacuums, in particular, are known for their ability to transition seamlessly from hard floors to carpets and back again. They’re also great for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and other areas of your home.
Bissell vacuums are also versatile, but they’re more geared towards cleaning pet-specific messes. However, they can still be used for cleaning other areas, such as hard floors, upholstery, and curtains. Some Bissell models even come with specialized tools like crevice tools and upholstery brushes.
Are Shark vacuums heavier and more difficult to maneuver?
Yes, Shark vacuums are generally heavier and more difficult to maneuver than Bissell vacuums. This is because Shark vacuums often have more advanced features and larger dustbins, which can add to their weight. However, Shark has made efforts to improve the design of their vacuums, making them more lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Bissell vacuums, on the other hand, are generally lighter and more portable. They’re designed to be easy to use and maneuver, even for people with mobility issues. If you’re looking for a lightweight and easy-to-use vacuum, a Bissell might be a better option.
Can I get replacement parts and accessories for my Shark or Bissell vacuum?
Yes, both Shark and Bissell offer replacement parts and accessories for their vacuums. Shark has a wide range of replacement parts available on their website, including filters, belts, and other accessories. They also offer a variety of cleaning solutions and tools that can be used with their vacuums.
Bissell also offers replacement parts and accessories on their website, including filters, belts, and other tools. However, their selection might be slightly more limited compared to Shark. Nevertheless, you should be able to find what you need to keep your Bissell vacuum running smoothly.