Is Shark Rocket Pet Plus Worth It?
Finding a vacuum that actually handles pet hair is a challenge. Many vacuums promise to clean up messes, but often leave behind fur and dander. The Shark Rocket Pet Plus stands out as a popular choice for pet owners. But is it really worth the money? Let’s break down what makes this vacuum special, examine its performance, compare it with other models, and see if it’s the right fit for your home.
Shark Rocket Pet Plus: Overview
The Shark Rocket Pet Plus is a lightweight stick vacuum designed for homes with pets. It’s part of Shark’s Rocket series, which is known for strong suction and easy handling. This model is built to tackle pet hair, dirt, and debris on both carpet and hard floors.
Some key features include:
- Powerful suction for deep cleaning
- Specialized pet tools (like the Pet Multi-Tool and Crevice Tool)
- Swivel steering for better control
- Easy-to-empty dust cup
- Lightweight (under 10 lbs)
- Converts to a handheld vacuum
This vacuum is not cordless—so you need to plug it in. That means you don’t have to worry about batteries running out, but you do need to manage the cord while cleaning.
Performance: How Well Does It Clean?
Pet Hair Removal
The Shark Rocket Pet Plus is specifically designed for pet owners. Its main brush roll and extra pet attachments help pick up fur from carpets, rugs, and hard floors. In tests, it removed over 95% of pet hair from thick carpet, and nearly 100% from hard floors. That’s impressive compared to many stick vacuums that leave hair stuck in fibers.
Deep Cleaning Carpet
Carpet cleaning is a big test for any vacuum. The Rocket Pet Plus uses a strong motor and a brush roll that spins fast. This helps pull dirt, dust, and dander from deep in the carpet. In lab reviews, it scored 4.7 out of 5 for carpet cleaning. That’s not perfect, but it’s above average for the price range.
Hard Floor Performance
Hard floors can be tricky for vacuums that scatter debris. The Rocket Pet Plus uses a soft front roller and suction to pull in larger particles. It leaves floors looking clean without pushing crumbs around. It also handles corners and edges well, thanks to its swivel steering.
Dust And Allergens
Pet dander and dust are common allergens. The Shark Rocket Pet Plus uses a HEPA filter to trap tiny particles. This helps reduce allergens in the air. The filter is washable, saving you money on replacements.
Shark Rocket Pet Plus Vs Other Vacuums
Comparing the Rocket Pet Plus to other models helps see where it stands. Here’s a look at how it stacks up against two popular competitors: the Shark Rocket HV382 and the Dyson V8 Animal.
| Feature | Shark Rocket Pet Plus | Shark Rocket HV382 | Dyson V8 Animal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~9 lbs | ~9.2 lbs | ~5.6 lbs |
| Power Source | Corded | Corded | Cordless |
| Pet Hair Tools | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HEPA Filter | Yes | No | Yes |
| Dust Cup Size | 0.77 quarts | 0.91 quarts | 0.54 quarts |
| Price Range | $160-$200 | $170-$220 | $350-$400 |
The Rocket Pet Plus offers strong suction and a HEPA filter, which the HV382 lacks. The Dyson V8 Animal is lighter and cordless, but costs much more. If you want powerful cleaning and allergy control without spending big, the Rocket Pet Plus fits well.
Real-life User Experiences
People who own the Shark Rocket Pet Plus share good feedback. Over 82% of buyers on Amazon rate it 4 stars or higher. Users mention these positives:
- Picks up pet hair easily, even with multiple pets
- Works well on both carpet and hard floors
- Easy to use in tight spaces and under furniture
- Lightweight and easy to carry upstairs
- The dust cup is simple to empty
Some users mention a few downsides:
- Cord can get tangled if not careful
- Dust cup is smaller than traditional vacuums
- Not as quiet as some models
Most pet owners say the vacuum meets their needs, especially for quick cleanups.
Key Features And Technology
Pet Multi-tool
This tool is designed to remove pet hair from upholstery, stairs, and car seats. It uses a combination of bristles and fabric to grab hair and lint.
Swivel Steering
The vacuum turns easily, making it simple to clean around furniture and corners. Swivel steering saves time and effort, especially in busy homes.
Convertible Design
You can remove the main wand and use the vacuum as a handheld. This is useful for cleaning car interiors, stairs, and small spaces.
Washable Hepa Filter
The HEPA filter catches fine dust and allergens. It’s washable, so you don’t need to buy replacements often. This is a money-saving feature many vacuums don’t offer.
Led Headlights
LED lights on the cleaning head help you see dirt and pet hair in dark corners or under furniture. This is a small but very useful detail.
Dust Cup Capacity
The Rocket Pet Plus holds up to 0.77 quarts of dust and debris. This is enough for small apartments or quick cleanups, but you may need to empty it more often in larger homes.
Price And Value
The Rocket Pet Plus usually costs between $160 and $200. For a vacuum with strong pet hair cleaning, HEPA filter, and multiple tools, this is a good value. You can find cheaper stick vacuums, but most don’t offer the same suction or allergy control.
Here’s a comparison of price vs features with other Shark models:
| Model | Price | Main Features | Pet Hair Tool | HEPA Filter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rocket Pet Plus | $160-$200 | Strong suction, convertible, LED lights | Yes | Yes |
| Shark Rocket HV382 | $170-$220 | DuoClean brush, larger dust cup | Yes | No |
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away | $150-$180 | Full-size upright, large dust cup | Yes | Yes |
The Rocket Pet Plus combines portability and specialized pet cleaning tools at a fair price. If you need a vacuum for daily pet messes, the value is strong.
Pros And Cons
Every product has strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a summary for the Rocket Pet Plus:
Pros:
- Excellent at removing pet hair
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Washable HEPA filter for allergies
- Convertible to handheld for small jobs
- LED headlights for spotting dirt
- Good value for price
Cons:
- Corded design limits movement compared to cordless vacuums
- Dust cup is small, needs frequent emptying for big cleanups
- Not as quiet as some other models
- No self-cleaning brush roll (hair can tangle)
- No automatic cord rewind
Common Mistakes When Choosing
Many buyers overlook important details when shopping for pet vacuums. Here are mistakes to avoid:
- Ignoring filter type: HEPA filters are better for allergies. Some vacuums only have basic filters.
- Focusing only on price: Cheap models often have weak suction or break quickly.
- Not checking attachments: Pet-specific tools make a big difference.
- Assuming cordless is always better: Cordless vacuums can run out of power fast. Corded models like the Rocket Pet Plus keep cleaning until the job is done.
- Buying too big or too small: If you have a large home, consider dust cup size. For apartments, a lightweight stick vacuum is ideal.
Is Shark Rocket Pet Plus Right For You?
Think about your home and cleaning needs:
- Do you have pets that shed often?
- Do you need to clean both carpet and hard floors?
- Is allergy control important to you?
- Do you prefer lightweight vacuums?
- Are you okay with plugging in a cord?
If you answered yes to most of these, the Rocket Pet Plus is a solid choice. It’s especially good for homes with dogs or cats that leave hair everywhere.
Non-obvious Insights
Many first-time buyers miss two important points:
- Regular filter cleaning keeps suction strong. Wash the HEPA filter every month to prevent clogs and keep airflow high.
- Brush roll maintenance matters. Pet hair can wrap around the brush. Remove and clean the brush roll every few weeks to avoid tangles and keep performance up.
These steps help your vacuum last longer and work better.
Expert Recommendation
As a calm expert, I recommend the Rocket Pet Plus for most pet owners. It balances price, power, and allergy control. The corded design means you never run out of battery. It’s not perfect, but it solves the biggest problems: pet hair removal and easy cleaning.
For those with large homes or heavy shedding pets, you may want a vacuum with a bigger dust cup. For small apartments or quick daily cleanups, this model fits well.
For more technical details and reviews, see the official Shark product page at Shark Clean.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between Shark Rocket Pet Plus And Other Rocket Models?
The Rocket Pet Plus has a washable HEPA filter and pet-specific tools. Some other Rocket models have larger dust cups or cordless options, but may lack allergy filters or pet hair tools.
Is The Shark Rocket Pet Plus Good For Allergies?
Yes, it uses a HEPA filter to trap dust, dander, and allergens. Washing the filter regularly helps keep your air clean.
How Often Should I Empty The Dust Cup?
For homes with pets, empty the dust cup after every full cleaning. For small cleanups, you can wait until it’s about half full.
Can It Clean Stairs And Upholstery?
Yes. The vacuum converts to a handheld and includes tools for stairs, couches, and car seats.
Does It Work On All Floor Types?
It cleans carpet, rugs, hardwood, tile, and laminate. The brush roll and suction adjust to different surfaces for best results.
If you’re looking for a vacuum that handles pet hair, cleans deep, and helps with allergies, the Shark Rocket Pet Plus is a smart investment. It’s reliable, easy to use, and delivers results for pet owners.
