If you live with pets, you know the struggle: fur on carpets, hair in corners, and fluff stuck to furniture. The Shark Rocket Pet Plus promises to tackle these challenges. But is it really good for pet hair, or is it just another vacuum with a catchy name? In this article, you’ll discover how the Shark Rocket Pet Plus performs on pet hair, what features matter most, and whether it’s worth your money. I’ll break down the facts, share real user insights, and compare it to similar models. By the end, you’ll know if this vacuum is the right fit for your home.
What Makes The Shark Rocket Pet Plus Stand Out?
The Shark Rocket Pet Plus is designed to target pet hair problems. It’s lightweight, has strong suction, and comes with special tools. But what sets it apart from other vacuums? Let’s look at some key features:
- Powerful suction: The Rocket Pet Plus uses a high-speed motor that lifts hair, dirt, and debris from carpets and hard floors.
- Self-cleaning brushroll: This feature stops hair from wrapping around the brush, saving you time and keeping suction strong.
- Pet Multi-Tool: A special attachment grabs pet hair from upholstery, stairs, and tight spaces.
- Lightweight design: At about 8 pounds, it’s easy to carry and move around your home.
These features are not just marketing claims. Many owners say the self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer, especially for homes with multiple pets. The Pet Multi-Tool also gets praise for removing stubborn fur from couches and beds.
Performance: How Well Does It Handle Pet Hair?
To answer the main question, we need to look at real-world results. Does the Shark Rocket Pet Plus actually remove pet hair from different surfaces? Here’s what testing and user feedback show:
Carpets And Rugs
Carpets are usually the toughest test for any vacuum. Pet hair can get trapped deep in the fibers. The Rocket Pet Plus has strong suction and a brushroll that digs into carpets. Most users report it picks up visible hair in one pass, even on thick rugs.
In lab tests, it removed over 98% of pet hair from medium-pile carpets. On low-pile carpets, performance was similar. However, if your carpet is very thick or plush, you might need extra passes or use the Pet Multi-Tool for edges.
Hard Floors
Hard floors (wood, tile, laminate) are easier for vacuums. The Rocket Pet Plus shines here, picking up hair and dust without scattering debris. The brushroll is gentle enough for wood, and the suction draws hair from cracks and corners.
Furniture And Upholstery
Pet hair sticks to sofas, chairs, and beds. The Pet Multi-Tool is made for these surfaces. It combines a bristle brush and a fabric tool, so you can swipe away hair without damage. Owners say it removes hair from cushions and curtains, even where regular vacuums fail.
Stairs And Tight Spaces
Many vacuums struggle on stairs, but the Rocket Pet Plus is lightweight and flexible. The Pet Multi-Tool and crevice tool help reach corners and edges, so you can clean every step.
Real User Data
Based on over 2,000 reviews, most pet owners give the Rocket Pet Plus high marks for pet hair removal. Some report it cuts cleaning time in half compared to older vacuums. Still, a few mention that the dust cup fills quickly if you have large pets, so you may need to empty it more often.
Comparing Shark Rocket Pet Plus To Other Pet Vacuums
How does the Rocket Pet Plus stack up against other popular models? Here’s a quick comparison with two rivals: the Dyson V8 Animal and the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser.
| Feature | Shark Rocket Pet Plus | Dyson V8 Animal | Bissell Pet Hair Eraser |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 8 lbs | 5.6 lbs | 10 lbs |
| Suction Power | Strong | Very Strong | Moderate |
| Self-Cleaning Brushroll | Yes | No | No |
| Pet Hair Tool | Included | Included | Included |
| Price | Mid-range | High | Low |
| Corded/Cordless | Corded | Cordless | Corded |
| Dust Cup Size | Small | Medium | Large |
The Shark Rocket Pet Plus stands out with its self-cleaning brushroll, which helps a lot with pet hair. The Dyson V8 Animal is lighter and cordless but costs more. The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser has a bigger dust cup but is heavier and less powerful.
Key Features Explained
Let’s dive deeper into the most important features for pet owners.
Self-cleaning Brushroll
Pet hair often wraps around vacuum brushes, causing clogs and reducing performance. The Rocket Pet Plus uses a self-cleaning brushroll with small combs that cut and release hair as you vacuum. This means less maintenance and stronger suction.
Many users say they used to spend 10–20 minutes cleaning their old brushrolls. With the Rocket Pet Plus, they rarely need to do this. It’s a simple but powerful feature that makes cleaning easier.
Pet Multi-tool
This tool is designed for pet owners. It combines a stiff bristle brush for deep cleaning and a fabric strip that grabs hair from sofas, car seats, and beds. You can switch between surfaces without changing tools.
For example, if you have a dog that sheds on both the floor and the couch, you can use the Pet Multi-Tool to clean both spots quickly.
Lightweight Design
Many vacuums are heavy and hard to carry upstairs. At 8 pounds, the Rocket Pet Plus is easy to move. You can use it as a stick vacuum or detach the handheld unit for smaller jobs.
Swivel Steering
The vacuum turns easily around furniture and corners. This helps you reach pet hair in tricky spots, like under tables or around chair legs.
Shark Rocket Pet Plus: Pros And Cons
Every product has ups and downs. Here’s a balanced look at what you’ll like—and what you might not.
Pros:
- Strong suction on carpets and floors
- Self-cleaning brushroll reduces hair wrap
- Special tools for pet hair and tight spaces
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Affordable price compared to top brands
Cons:
- Small dust cup means frequent emptying
- Corded design limits movement compared to cordless models
- Not ideal for very thick carpets
- Noise level is higher than some other vacuums
Most pet owners find the pros outweigh the cons, especially if they value easy maintenance and strong cleaning power.
Practical Insights: What Beginners Often Miss
If you’re new to buying vacuums for pet hair, here are two insights most beginners overlook:
1. Brushroll maintenance matters. Many vacuums lose suction because hair wraps around the brush and blocks it. Self-cleaning brushrolls solve this, saving you time and keeping the vacuum working well.
2. Dust cup size affects cleaning. If you have a big dog or multiple pets, the dust cup will fill quickly. With the Rocket Pet Plus, you may need to empty it after each room. This is normal for lightweight vacuums but can surprise new buyers.
Cleaning Experience: Day-to-day Use
Using the Shark Rocket Pet Plus feels different from traditional vacuums. Here’s what you can expect:
- Quick setup: Snap on the handle and plug it in. No complex assembly.
- Easy tool changes: Attach or remove the Pet Multi-Tool or crevice tool with a click.
- Fast cleaning: The vacuum glides smoothly, and you can cover large areas quickly.
- Simple emptying: Release the dust cup with one button. It’s small but easy to handle.
Some users say they clean more often because it’s less effort. Others like the handheld mode for cleaning cars or stairs.
Durability And Reliability
You want a vacuum that lasts. The Rocket Pet Plus is made with strong plastics and durable parts. The motor is tested for thousands of hours, and the brushroll is built to handle tough jobs.
In surveys, most owners report the vacuum works well after a year or more. Some say the cord wears out if you tug too hard, so handle it gently. Shark offers a 5-year limited warranty for peace of mind.
Price And Value
The Rocket Pet Plus costs less than most high-end cordless vacuums. Prices vary, but you’ll usually find it in the $150–$200 range. For the features and performance, it’s a strong value.
If you want cordless freedom, you’ll pay more. If you want a bigger dust cup, you’ll need a heavier vacuum. For most pet owners, the Rocket Pet Plus offers a good balance.
Shark Rocket Pet Plus Vs. Older Shark Models
Shark has made several Rocket models over the years. How does the Pet Plus compare to earlier versions?
| Model | Self-Cleaning Brushroll | Pet Tool | Suction Power | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rocket Pet Plus | Yes | Yes | Strong | 8 lbs |
| Rocket HV302 | No | No | Moderate | 7.6 lbs |
| Rocket Deluxe Pro | No | Yes | Strong | 8 lbs |
The Pet Plus is the only model with the self-cleaning brushroll, which makes it better for pet hair. Older models may cost less but require more maintenance.
Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your Shark Rocket Pet Plus
To keep your vacuum working well and make cleaning easier, follow these tips:
- Empty the dust cup often. Don’t let it overfill, or suction will drop.
- Check the brushroll for clogs. Even with self-cleaning, inspect it every few weeks.
- Clean filters monthly. Rinse and dry them to maintain airflow.
- Use the Pet Multi-Tool for furniture. Don’t rely only on the main brushroll.
- Store the vacuum properly. Keep the cord untangled and tools organized.
These steps will help your Rocket Pet Plus last longer and keep your home hair-free.
Is Shark Rocket Pet Plus Good For Pet Hair?
Based on features, user reviews, and tests, the answer is clear: Yes, the Shark Rocket Pet Plus is good for pet hair. It removes fur from carpets, hard floors, and furniture. The self-cleaning brushroll and Pet Multi-Tool are especially helpful for homes with pets.
It’s not perfect—dust cup size and corded design are minor drawbacks—but most pet owners find it reliable and easy to use. If you have pets that shed, the Rocket Pet Plus is a smart choice.
For more detailed technical specifications and reviews, you can visit the official Shark website: SharkClean.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Shark Rocket Pet Plus Good For Dog Hair And Cat Hair?
Yes, it works well for both dog hair and cat hair. The self-cleaning brushroll stops hair from wrapping, and the Pet Multi-Tool grabs fur from furniture and tight spaces.
How Often Should I Empty The Dust Cup?
For homes with pets, you should empty the dust cup after each cleaning session, or even after each room if you have large pets. This keeps suction strong and prevents clogs.
Can The Shark Rocket Pet Plus Clean Thick Carpets?
It performs well on medium and low-pile carpets. On very thick or plush carpets, you may need extra passes or use the Pet Multi-Tool for edges. Some users find it less effective on deep shag rugs.
Is It Easy To Maintain The Self-cleaning Brushroll?
Yes, maintenance is simple. The self-cleaning brushroll removes most hair automatically. Still, check it every few weeks to remove any stuck debris.
Does The Rocket Pet Plus Work For Cleaning Cars?
Absolutely. You can detach the handheld unit and use the Pet Multi-Tool for seats and floors. Its lightweight design makes it easy to use in vehicles.
Choosing the right vacuum for pet hair can make your home cleaner and your life easier. With the Shark Rocket Pet Plus, you get strong performance, helpful features, and good value. If pet hair is a problem, this vacuum is ready to help.
