Adopting a cat is going to positively impact your life for many years to come, but it is important to realize that these pets can be quite messy. Even if you do everything in your power to properly train and care for your cat, you are still going to deal with at least a few cat litter messes over the years. So, the most important question is “can you vacuum cat litter?” Yes, absolutely you can! But, in order to take care of those kitty messes as quickly and easily as possible, you should consider investing in the best vacuum for cat litter.
These devices are similar to traditional vacuums, but they have a few features that are going to be invaluable to cat owners. In addition to pulling up large piles of granules, they are also going to trap in unwanted germs that would otherwise be released into the air when it comes time to take care of a cat litter mess. Many of these devices have versatile hose attachments as well, and those will allow you to quickly clean up cat litter in hard-to-reach areas.
No one wants to buy a low-quality cat litter vacuum that is going to break down after a handful of uses, and that is why we have compiled a list world-class vacuums that are going to stand up to years of use. If you have been on the search for the best vacuum for cat litter, then you might want to take a closer look at these five great machines.
Comparing the Top 5 Vacuums for Cat Litter in 2020
When it comes to picking up the best cat litter vacuum, there are many different specs and upgrades to consider. In these reviews, we have taken an in-depth look at some of the key features of each vacuum cleaner as well as their pros and cons. Once you have explored all of these options, you should have a much better idea of which type of cat litter vacuum is going to best suit your needs for tile, carpets and hardwood floors.
| Best Cat Litter Vacuums 2020 | Corded/Cordless | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Rotator NV752 | 30-feet | 16.7 lbs. | Check Price |
| Hoover T-Series UH70120 | 25-feet | 16.5 lbs. | Check Price |
| ILIFE V3s Pro Robotic | Cordless (up to 120 min) | 4.5 lbs. | Check Price |
| Bissell 1954 Bolt | Cordless (up to 25 min) | 5.8 lbs. | Check Price |
| Electrolux EL4335B | 21 ft cord + 8 ft hose | 11.6 lbs | Check Price |
Best Vacuum for Cat Litter Reviews – (Updated List)
Even though traditional vacuums have been around for decades, these devices are constantly being tweaked and improved. Within each of these reviews, we have made sure to explore some of the cutting-edge features that will make getting rid of cat litter much less stressful and time-consuming. Here is a closer look at five of the best vacuums for cat litter and pet hair on the market right now.
1. Shark Rotator NV752 Lift Away TruePet Upright Vacuum
- 2-IN-1 POWERED LIFT-AWAY TECHNOLOGY: Allows you to lift the pod away to deep-clean hard-to-reach areas, like under furniture, while the powered brushroll keeps spinning.
Quick Features:
- Anti-allergen HEPA filter
- Extra large canister
- Detachable hose with heavy-duty roller brush
- 30-foot power cord for better portability
Shark has created a big name for itself by developing some of the most efficient vacuum cleaners in the world, and the TruePet upright vacuum is one of their flagship products. This vacuum comes with a wide array of features that will make cleaning your home less arduous. In addition to the oversized canister and dynamic swivel steering, the TruePet also has a fully detachable brush head that can be used to reach cat litter messes under furniture and in other tight areas.
With its excellent power and amazing maneuverability, we believe that Shark’s TruePet is the best vacuum for pet hair and cat litter. This vacuum is going to be particularly useful if you live in a home with multiple types of flooring such as carpets, hardwood floors, vinyl tiles, stairs and under furniture. Its fingertip controls allow you to change the settings without taking your hands off the vacuum, and that is going to save you time and energy. Overall, it will be tough to find any kitty litter vacuums that can match the versatility and power of the TruePet.
- Elegant design and durability
- Excellent suction power and maneuverability
- Multiple settings for different types of flooring
- Built-in LED lights for dark areas
- Highly versatile with ease of use
- Plenty of useful attachments
- Relatively heavy when canister is attached
- Flexible hose is somewhat short
- Canister easily tips over when detached
2. Hoover T-Series UH70120 WindTunnel Pet Rewind Bagless Upright Vacuum
- Windtunnel technology: Creates suction to lift and remove surface debris and deeply embedded dirt
Quick Features:
- Foldable handle for easy storage
- Five height settings for multiple surfaces
- Air powered fur collector included
Even though the TruePet is a great product, Hoover’s T-Series WindTunnel vacuum gives that device a run for its money. The WindTunnel has multiple settings and attachments that allow you to clean a wide variety of surfaces including sealed hardwood floors, laminate tile, and carpets. It also has a 12-inch extension wand with an upholstery tool, and that makes it an excellent pick for those who have cats that enjoy lounging on their furniture.
The WindTunnel’s biggest advantage is its incredibly powerful motor. You are going to pick up an amazing amount of dirt, dander, cat litter and fur with this vacuum, and the oversized collection chamber can hold quite a bit of waste. On top of that, the WindTunnel also boasts a world-class HEPA filter that traps over 99 percent of all dirt, pollen, and other allergens. For the money, Hoover’s WindTunnel is an excellent cat litter vacuum that’ll hopefully work well and last a long time.
- Very powerful motor
- WindTunnel technology is a definite plus
- Automatic cord rewind feature
- Multiple attachments for various surfaces
- Lightweight and easy to use at under 17 pounds
- Superior value for money
- Heavy frame
- Short Extension wand
- Filter must be cleaned frequently
3. ILIFE V3s Pro Robotic Pet Hair Vacuum
- With a tangle-free pet hair care technology, focuses on picking up hairs, dirt, debris on hard floors
Quick Features:
- Fully programmable and self-charging
- Heavy-duty brush designed for pet hair
- Slim body design
Robotic vacuums have exploded popularity in recent years, but many of those products aren’t designed for pet hair and kitty litter. A very small amount of cat hair or dander is going to clog the average smart vacuum, and that is why you might want to consider ILIFE’s V3s. This is a purpose-built pet hair vacuum that will stand up to quite a bit of wear and tear. It is an ideal option for hardwood and tile floors, but it is also going to work on most low-pile carpets.
The biggest benefit of the ILIFE V3s is the fact that it is fully programmable, and that will save you quite a bit of time over the years. You can easily control this best robot vacuum for cat litter through a smartphone app or have it clean at specific times throughout the week. Once it is done cleaning, it will automatically head back to its dock and begin charging. The only maintenance that you need to worry about is regularly emptying the dust bin and occasionally swapping out the filter.
- Powerful suction for a robot vacuum
- Easily controlled through a mobile app
- Automatically docks and charges
- Multiple brushes to clean corners
- Tangle-Free operation
- Low profile design to go under sofas, beds and furniture
- Durable 2600 mAh Lithium battery
- Small dust bin as compared to similar Roomba cat litter vacuums
- Not suitable vacuum for cat litter on carpet and thick rugs
4. Bissell 1954 Bolt Lithium Ion Cordless Pet Stick Vacuum
- 14. 4V lithium ion battery provides powerful, lasting suction for up to 25 minutes. No Hose
Quick Features:
- Cyclonic cleaning system
- Dual-edge cleaning head
- Rapid recharge base
Bissell is another popular manufacturer that has created a wide array of world-class vacuums. The 1954 Bolt Cordless Pet Stick Vacuum is a compact device that is perfect for smaller homes, condos, dorm rooms and apartments. Its stick design gives you excellent maneuverability, and this device can easily be stored in a compact closet or pantry. When it comes time to cleaning up kitty litter, you can quickly attach the lithium battery for up to 25 minutes of continuous use.
Even though this cordless vacuum for cat litter doesn’t have as much power as some of the other devices on this list, it is one of the most versatile cat litter vacuums on the market. You won’t have to worry about your arms or wrists getting tired as you remove cat litter and pet hair from carpets, stairs, counters, hardwood floors, upholstery, drapes and other parts of your house. On top of all that, the Bissell Bolt Pet Stick Vacuum also comes with a myriad of attachments including a pet hair brush roll, pet hair nozzle tool, and scooping tool to curb larger messes of cat litter.
- Light and versatile
- Foldable handle for easy storage
- Detachable nozzle for hard-to-reach areas
- Solid 2 years limited warranty
- Difficult operation on laminate floors
- Undersized dust bin
5. Electrolux EL4335B Corded Ultra Flex Canister Vacuum
- On/off Brush roll switch and 3-level height adjustment
Quick Features:
- Premium HEPA filter
- Extra-long power cord and hose
- Self-cleaning roller brush
If you have thick carpets and rugs, then you should consider a heavy-duty device like the Electrolux Ultra Flex Canister Vacuum. The team over at Electrolux designed this vacuum specifically for long-pile carpets that are difficult to clean. While this vacuum is heavier than some of the other products in this list, you can rest assured that it is going to clean up almost any surface in your home.
Electrolux’s Ultra Flex has a 21-foot cord and 8-foot hose, and that gives you quite a bit of cleaning distance for larger rooms. It also comes with a few different tools and attachments for small crevices, unusual angles, and low-profile furniture. As an added bonus, Electrolux has backed this vacuum with an excellent 5-year warranty as well.
- Powerful motor
- Adjustable suction mechanism
- HEPA filter and cyclonic function
- Easy maintenance and storage
- 33 feet reach system
- Versatile brushes and nozzles
- Handle made from thin plastic
- Hose is stiff and difficult to maneuver at times
A Complete Buying Guide for Cat Litter Vacuums
Important Factors to Keep in Mind When Choosing a Vacuum for Cat Litter
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Size and Weight
Anyone who regularly uses a vacuum knows that the size and weight of the device is a major factor to consider. Even though larger pet hair vacuums tend to have more power, they can also be tiring to use. If you want the absolute lightest and most comfortable machine, then you should consider a stick vacuum for cat litter. You can also opt for a robot vacuum, but those aren’t as effective on high pile carpet and rugs. For dense carpets and large piles of kitty litter, a slightly larger upright or canister vacuum will most likely be a better choice.
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Build Quality
Unfortunately, determining the build quality of a vacuum is never going to be easy, and that is why many people rely on reviews and recommendations. When shopping for the best vacuum for cat hair and litter, you should also consider the company that has manufactured the device. Brands such as Bissell and Shark make excellent electronics, and those corporations usually offer world-class warranties. Buyers should almost always steer clear of companies that are known for using cheap plastic parts and substandard electronics. You might also want to go for cat litter vacuums that are protected by solid warranties, but it is important to remember that a guarantee is only as good as the company that backs it.
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Power
The overall power of a good kitty litter vacuum depends on a few different factors including the size of the motor and the efficiency of the brush. Some vacuums have very strong motors with weak brush rollers, and those devices usually don’t work very well on high pile carpets and rugs. Recently, a few vacuum manufacturers have developed high-powered heads for their devices, and one of those upgrades will greatly improve the efficiency of a cat litter vacuum. That said, a vacuum’s total power is a key factor to consider, but the efficiency of the unit is just as important.
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Portability
The portability of your vacuum might not seem like a big deal, but many cat owners are forced to lug their vacuums to different rooms and buildings multiple times a month. Highly portable vacuums for cat litter are going to be ideal lightweight machines for seniors and have comfortable grips. Some of these products also have foldable handles and detachable canisters, but those features aren’t always for improved portability. In many cases, the foldable handles are designed to decrease the amount of storage space that is used up. If you don’t plan on carrying around your kitty litter vacuum from one area to another, then portability might not be a major concern.
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Corded or Cordless
For many years, corded vacuums for kitty litter and hair tended to be much stronger, but that has all changed recently. Battery technology is more advanced than ever, and manufacturers from around the world are now producing powerful cordless vacuums for cat litter. Unfortunately, that power is going to come at a price, and high-end cordless vacuums tend to cost more money. You might also need to buy a charging dock and multiple batteries if you choose a cordless unit. Those who have larger homes should most likely buy a corded vacuum cleaner that doesn’t have a limited battery life.
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Warranty
A cat litter vacuum is an invaluable tool, and you are going to want an excellent warranty if you plan on keeping that investment for many years to come. Most major vacuum manufacturers offer comprehensive 6-month or 9-month warranties on all of their products. Those warranties typically cover the repairs or a replacement unit if the vacuum breaks down for any reason. Longer five-year warranties are relatively common as well, but those guarantees rarely cover daily wear and tear. Before you select the best vacuum for cat litter, you should take a look at the manufacturer’s website to see what type of warranties they offer. You can also contact the retailer or seller directly to see if they offer upgraded warranties.
Which Type is the Best Vacuum for Cat Hair and Litter
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Canister Vacuums
Canister vacuums have been around for many decades, and these devices are very popular because of their power and durability. A canister vacuum specifically designed for cat litter, hair and debris is comprised of a larger body that houses the collection bin and motor. The cleaning nozzle will usually be attached to that body with a hose, and the size of the hose can greatly impact the versatility of the unit. For many people, the biggest drawback of a canister vacuum is the fact that it is more difficult to pull around. You will need to use both hands most of the time, and that can become tiring. Canister kitty litter vacuums also take up more storage space because of their larger frames.
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Upright Vacuums
With an upright vacuum for cat litter, all of the primary components of the device are housed in a single body that is on wheels. Instead of pulling a second unit behind you, the vacuum can be controlled with a single handle. One of the biggest benefits of upright vacuums is the fact that most of them have motorized brushes. As soon as the device is turned on, the motorized brush will begin spinning at a very high speed to pick up loose kitty litter, dirt, hair other debris. You will be able to easily transition from carpet to hard flooring without having to worry about changing too many settings. Unfortunately, these vacuum cleaners don’t always do a good job of cleaning difficult-to-reach areas unless they have detachable hoses.
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Handheld Vacuums
As the name implies, a handheld vacuum is a small device that can easily be carried in a single hand. These vacuums are an ideal option for those pet owners who only need to clean off furniture or pick up small piles of kitty litter in a small house, studio apartment and car seats. That being said, handheld vacuum or dustbuster for cat litter are usually underpowered, and you shouldn’t plan on cleaning an entire home with one of those devices. If you regularly travel in an RV or a trailer, then a handheld vacuum for RV might be a great option. You might also want to invest in the best handheld vacuum for cat litter if you have a small area of the home that you would like to clean without lugging around your canister or upright vacuum.
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Stick Vacuums
Stick vacuums are somewhat similar to upright vacuums, but there are a few key differences that you should be aware of. In most cases, stick vacuums are much lighter than upright vacuums, and that makes them an excellent choice for those who don’t have the ability to push around heavier devices for long periods of time. While stick vacuums are incredibly easy to use and very maneuverable, they also have limited power. Investing in an expensive stick vacuum for cat litter won’t be a good idea if you live in a home that has quite a bit of carpeting. Those devices rarely have enough power to extract kitty litter and other debris from thick pile carpets and rugs. If your home is primarily hardwood or tile flooring and you only have to clean up the occasional kitty mess, then a stick vacuum might be right for you.
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Robotic Vacuums
Also known as smart vacuums, robot vacuums are autonomous devices that move around and clean up dirt, debris and cat litter on their own. The vast majority of robotic vacuums are controlled through mobile apps, but many of them have on/off switches as well. With a smart vacuum for kitty litter, you can either open the mobile app whenever you would like to clean your home or set a weekly cleaning schedule. Once that schedule has been set, all you will need to do is regularly empty the dust bin. While these devices are very advanced, they tend to struggle with larger piles of debris and thick rugs. Those who have messy cats might want to purchase canister or upright vacuum cleaner for cat litter.
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Wet/Dry Vacuums
These devices are often called shop-vacs, and they are very useful in some situations. In addition to picking up dry items like dander, long hair and litter, these vacuums can also pull up water and other liquids. Most wet/dry vacuums have seals that protect their motors and all of the electronic parts from moisture. Shop vac for cat litter are very popular in workshops and other places that tend to get rather messy. While these wet dry vacuums for cat litter are exceedingly powerful, they tend to be loud and cumbersome as well. Wet/dry vacuums usually aren’t suitable for everyday cleaning inside a home.
What makes a Good Cat Litter Vacuum
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Splitting Air and Dirt
The technology behind modern vacuums is relatively straightforward, but there are a few key components that you should familiarize yourself with while you are on the search for the best vacuum for cat litter. Vacuums pull in debris through suction, and that debris must be separated from the air in some way. Most of these devices have filters that capture the dust and kitty litter before it gets into the motor. That debris is then kept in a dust bin or removable bag (source).
High-quality HEPA filters are generally seen as the best option for vacuums because they are extremely efficient. HEPA filters usually capture 99.9 percent of all debris, and that means there are going to be fewer allergens kicked into the air while you are vacuuming. In some cases, a HEPA filter can also increase the lifespan of a kitty litter vacuum by limiting how much debris gets pulled into the motor. Cyclonic vacuums use centrifugal forces to separate the air from any debris that is pulled in, but that technology is usually only found in upright vacuums.
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Compatible with the Flooring in Your Home
The type of flooring that you have in your home is going to be one of the biggest factors when deciding the best rated vacuum for cat litter. After kitty litter gets trapped in a rug or carpet, you will need a very powerful vacuum to suck it out. Stick, handheld, and robotic vacuums rarely have enough power to extract debris from carpets and rugs. If your home only has hardwood, tiles or vinyl floors, then those devices might be perfectly acceptable. For multiple flooring types, however, you should always go with a canister or upright vacuum for cat litter. In addition to having stronger motors, those vacuums are also exceptionally versatile.
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Bagged vs. Bagless
Bagged and bagless vacuums each have their own pros and cons, and choosing between these two types of devices is going to come down to your personal preferences. With a bagged vacuum for cat litter, you will have to remove and replace the dust bag whenever it fills up, and that is going to result in extra operating expenses. One of the reasons why many people prefer bagged kitty litter vacuums is because many of these devices use fully sealable bags that prevent dust and dander from being released into the air. Bagless vacuums usually have a removable dust bin that must be frequently emptied into the trash. You won’t have to buy additional bags with those devices, but extra dust might get kicked into the air whenever you empty the bin.
Key Ways to Avoid Cat Litter Tracking and Scattering
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Litter Mat
Cleaning up stray cat litter every single day can become aggravating, and putting down the best cat litter mat is one of the effective ways to prevent the granules from getting tracked through your home. These mats are usually no more than a few feet across, and they are placed directly under litter boxes and feeding bowls. When the cat steps out of the litter box, any stray granules that are caught in its paws will become trapped in the mat. You can then clean out the mat with your kitty litter vacuum as often as you would like. When purchasing a kitty litter mat, you should make sure that it has a non-slip surface on its underside. You also want to be sure that the mat has thick enough material on the top to trap the granules.
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Positioning of the Litter Box
As a general rule, you always want to place your litter box in an area that is easy to clean up. If your home has any tile or hardwood floors, then you should most likely keep the litter box in one of those areas. Keeping the litter box on a carpet or rug is going to make your life much more difficult in the coming years because the granules will constantly be trapped in the fibers and fabric. Even with a high-end vacuum, cleaning kitty litter out of your carpets is going to be very time-consuming. You can also put the litter box in an area that doesn’t get a lot of foot traffic if you want to reduce your risk of tripping over the box and spilling the contents.
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Large Litter Box
Purchasing an oversized kitty litter box is another simple tactic that is going to reduce litter tracking. When your cat steps out of the box, some of the granules are going to shift around, and you want to be sure that the walls are high enough to prevent the kitty litter from getting kicked out. The average cat litter box is 16 x 10 inches, but you might need a slightly wider box if you have a big cat. As a general rule, the litter box should be 1.5 times the length of your cat.
Why Cat Litter is Dangerous for Most Vacuums
Most traditional vacuums can’t handle a large amount of kitty litter at once, and the granules could end up doing irreversible damage to those devices. Cleaning up a few granules probably won’t hurt a typical vacuum cleaner, but you should always err on the side of caution when it comes to these electronics. Within a short period of time, the soft granules and hardened chunks of clay will clog the internal components and potentially fry the motor in a generic vacuum. On the other hand, a specially designed vacuum for cat litter will quickly and efficiently trap cat hair and litter so that it can be properly disposed of without damaging the machine itself. As a precaution, female cat owners should also avoid contact with cat litter and cat poo during pregnancy to reduce the risk of toxoplasmosis infection (source).
Wrap Up
Investing in the best vacuum for cat litter is going to be an absolute necessity if you have one or more feline companions. These devices have been specifically designed to pick up soft granules and hardened clay without damaging their interior components. Over the course of a few years, your cat litter vacuum could end up saving you an incredible amount of time, money, and energy with peace of mind.
