Roomba Vacuums for Pets: Honest Reviews and Comparisons

Why Roomba Vacuums Are Ideal for Pet Owners

Roomba vacuums have become a go-to choice for pet owners thanks to their strong suction, smart technology, and pet-friendly features. These robot vacuums are engineered to clean under furniture, around pet bowls, and across both carpet and hardwood with ease. But what makes Roomba vacuums for pets stand out?

Here are some of the key features that cater specifically to pet households:

• Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes: Unlike traditional bristle brushes that tangle with fur, Roomba’s rubber brushes stay in constant contact with floors and prevent hair buildup.

• Powerful Suction: Select models offer up to 40x the suction power of older Roombas, making them effective at pulling embedded hair from rugs and carpets.

• HEPA-Grade Filters: Many Roomba vacuums include high-efficiency filters that trap 99% of allergens, dust, and dander—critical for families with allergy sensitivities.

• Smart Mapping and Scheduling: You can set routines, exclude pet zones, or direct your Roomba to areas that need the most attention via the iRobot app or voice commands.

• Pet-Specific Intelligence: Some advanced models are even equipped with sensors to avoid pet waste—yes, really.

These features combine to make Roomba vacuums for pets more than just a convenience—they're a smart cleaning solution for modern pet owners.

What to Look for in a Roomba Pet Vacuum

When choosing a Roomba to tackle pet messes, here are the top criteria you should consider:

• Suction Power: More suction means better pickup of pet hair and dander, especially on carpets.

• Brush Design: Tangle-free, rubberized brushes are essential for handling hair without maintenance headaches.

• Bin Capacity: Pets shed a lot—larger dustbins (or self-emptying bases) reduce the frequency of emptying.

• Noise Level: Sensitive pets may be frightened by loud vacuums. Some models operate more quietly than others.

• Smart Features: Consider if you need features like smart mapping, zone cleaning, or voice control.

• Avoidance Tech: Some Roomba vacuums are equipped with cameras and sensors that help them avoid pet waste and toys.

With these factors in mind, let’s explore the most popular Roomba models designed for pet hair and compare their strengths and weaknesses.

Read more: Roomba for Carpet and Pet Hair

Best Roomba Vacuums for Pets: Reviews and Comparisons

1. Roomba s9+ – Best

The Roomba s9+ is the most powerful and premium model in the iRobot lineup. With 40x suction power compared to the Roomba 600 series, it’s built to tackle even the most stubborn embedded hair on thick carpets.

Pros:

• Most powerful suction in the Roomba family

• D-shape design reaches into corners better than round robots

• Includes Clean Base® that auto-empties the bin for up to 60 days

• Great for multi-pet households or homes with long-haired breeds

Cons:

• Expensive

• Loud during high-suction operation

If you’re serious about deep cleaning and want the best Roomba pet vacuum available, the s9+ is the top choice.

2. Roomba j7+ – Best for Avoiding Pet Accidents

The j7+ offers a unique advantage for pet owners: it can identify and avoid pet waste, thanks to PrecisionVision Navigation. This feature has earned iRobot’s P.O.O.P. (Pet Owner Official Promise), meaning the vacuum will avoid solid pet waste—or you’ll get a replacement unit.

Pros:

• Avoids pet poop, cords, and other obstacles

• Self-emptying Clean Base

• Learns and maps your home intelligently

• Quieter than the s9+

Cons:

• Less suction power than the s9+

• Premium price point

For those who worry about unfortunate messes, the Roomba j7+ offers peace of mind and excellent daily cleaning performance.

3. Roomba i7+ – Smart and Balanced

The Roomba i7+ strikes a balance between power and price. It includes the same Clean Base as the higher-end models and smart mapping for customized cleaning, but at a slightly lower cost.

Pros:

• Smart mapping and room-by-room cleaning

• Self-emptying

• Strong suction for pet hair on most surfaces

Cons:

• Lacks poop detection

• May struggle with high-pile carpet

This model is a solid middle-ground choice for pet owners who want convenience without the top-tier price tag.

4. Roomba i3+ – Best Value for Pet Owners

The i3+ is one of the most affordable Roombas with a self-emptying base. It doesn't have the advanced mapping of the i7+ or j7+, but it still provides great suction and hair pickup on carpets and floors.

Pros:

• Competitive price for a robot with Clean Base

• Rubber brushes and HEPA-level filter

• Handles pet hair well on most floor types

Cons:

• No smart mapping

• Doesn’t avoid objects like cords or toys

If you’re on a budget but still want hands-free cleaning, the i3+ is a great entry-level Roomba pet vacuum.

Quick Comparison Table: Roomba Vacuums for Pets

 

Is a Roomba Pet Vacuum Worth It?

While the upfront cost of a Roomba vacuum may seem high, it’s important to think about the long-term convenience and cleanliness. Manually vacuuming every day—or even multiple times a day—is time-consuming. Roomba vacuums for pets are designed to automate this routine and significantly reduce the effort needed to keep your home hair-free.

For homes with shedding breeds like Huskies, Labradors, or long-haired cats, a Roomba can truly make a difference in daily cleanliness and allergy control. When paired with a proper air purifier or regular grooming, the impact is even greater.

If you're still unsure, remember that many models come with trial periods or return policies. But in most cases, pet owners who invest in a Roomba don’t go back.

Final Thoughts

Roomba vacuums for pets are not just about automation—they're about making your life easier and your home cleaner. With options ranging from the budget-friendly i3+ to the ultra-smart j7+ and powerhouse s9+, there’s a model for every type of pet owner.

If you're tired of sweeping fur every day or dealing with clogged traditional vacuums, investing in a Roomba pet vacuum could be the best decision you make this year. iRobot’s technology has come a long way, and today’s models are more capable than ever when it comes to tackling irobot pet hair challenges.

So whether you need maximum power, accident avoidance, or just a little help staying ahead of the fur, there’s a Roomba ready to do the job.