“Scrub pet odors and dander from your air for a fresher, cleaner home.”
Breathe Easier at Home: Best Air Purifiers for Pet Owners
Living with pets often means dealing with dander, hair, and other allergens that can irritate your sinuses and eyes. An effective air purifier can significantly reduce these airborne particles, improving indoor air quality and providing relief for allergy sufferers.
According to Melanie Carver, Chief Mission Officer of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, HEPA filters are certified to remove particles as small as 0.3 microns—including pet dander, mold, dust, and bacteria—when properly maintained. This makes HEPA-equipped purifiers a top choice for homes with pets.
To help pet parents find the right solution, we tested 47 air purifiers in both controlled labs and real homes, evaluating performance, noise levels, and ease of use.
Our Top Picks for Pet Owners:
- Best Overall: Winix 5500-2 4-Stage True HEPA Air Purifier — ultra-quiet, highly effective, and easy to maintain.
- Best for Small Spaces: Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max Air Purifier — compact yet powerful.
- Best Budget Option for Small Spaces: Levoit Air Purifier 3-in-1 Filter Cleaner — affordable and efficient.
- Best Quiet: Rabbit Air MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier — whisper-quiet with premium filtration.
- Best for Odors: Levoit Core 300S Air Purifier — targets stubborn pet odors effectively.
- Best for Allergies: Bionaire True HEPA 360 UV Air Purifier — combines HEPA and UV for comprehensive allergen removal.
- Best Splurge: Dyson Purifier Cool — stylish, multifunctional, and powerful.
- Best Budget for Big Room: Veva 9000 Air Purifier — high performance for larger spaces.
Best Overall
Winix 5500-2 4-Stage True HEPA Air Purifier
CREDIT: AMAZON
Winix 5500-2 4-Stage True HEPA Air Purifier
Best Overall Air Purifier for Pet Owners
What We Like:
- Four-layer filtration system—including a true HEPA filter, washable carbon filter, pre-filter, and permanent filter—effectively captures pet hair, dander, and other allergens.
- Easy setup and straightforward replacement process for filters.
- Real-time air quality feedback with three-color sensor lights.
- Remote control for convenient operation.
- Built-in sensors automatically adjust fan speed and LED brightness based on light and air quality, conserving energy and reducing noise.
What We Don’t Like:
- LED notifications can be distracting at night for sensitive users.
- Larger physical size may feel bulky in smaller rooms or bedrooms.
The Winix 5500-2 stands out for its combination of effective filtration and user-friendly features. Its four-stage system captures pet dander and hair better than most competitors, thanks to a top-performing pre-filter and a true HEPA filter that removes particles as small as 0.3 microns. The device offers a solid Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) with scores of 243 for dust, 246 for pollen, and 232 for smoke.
Dr. Niha Qamar, an Allergy and Immunology expert, confirms that “having a true HEPA filter and a good CADR has been shown to be a lot more effective with reducing allergens.”
The purifier operates quietly, even on its highest setting, and automatically switches to sleep mode in dark environments, dimming the LED display and lowering fan speed for minimal disruption during sleep.
While the Winix 5500-2 doesn’t support Wi-Fi or app control, it includes a handy remote and intuitive LED alerts that notify you when it’s time to replace or rinse filters. It’s designed for rooms up to 360 square feet, making it suitable for larger living spaces.
If you’re looking for something more compact or quieter for a bedroom, consider the Levoit Core 300s (best for odors) or Rabbit Air MinusA2 (best for quiet), both offering smaller footprints and smart features.
Specs:
- Coverage Area: Up to 360 sq ft
- Dimensions: 15 x 8.2 x 23.6 inches
- Filter Type: 4-stage filtration including true HEPA
- CADR Ratings: Dust (243), Pollen (246), Smoke (232)
- Smart Features: Auto-adjusting fan and display, remote control (no Wi-Fi)
Best for Small Spaces
Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max Air Purifier
CREDIT: BLUEAIR
Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max Air Purifier
Best for Small Spaces with Smart Features
What We Like:
- Mobile app enables easy monitoring and control of four fan speeds, auto mode, night mode, and child lock.
- Wi-Fi and voice command compatible for convenient hands-free use.
- Washable external pre-filter captures pet hair and extends filter life.
- Five-color LED air quality indicator provides real-time feedback from excellent to very polluted air.
What We Don’t Like:
- Replacing the internal HEPA filter can be a bit tricky.
The Blueair Blue Pure 411i Max stands out by pairing dependable HEPA filtration with smart, user-friendly tech. In testing, it quickly improved air quality after exposure to common pollutants and operated extremely quietly—even on its highest fan speed.
The purifier’s Wi-Fi connectivity allows control via a mobile app, voice commands, or physical buttons. Its features include four fan speeds, an auto mode that adjusts to detected air quality, and a night mode that dims or turns off display lights for undisturbed sleep. The optional child lock is ideal for households with children to avoid accidental setting changes.
The washable external pre-filter traps pet hair and other large particles and comes in five muted colors to match your décor. Blueair also offers a subscription service to conveniently deliver replacement filters at intervals that suit your usage.
With coverage from about 219 to 526 square feet, it fits well in bedrooms, offices, or smaller living rooms.
Specs:
- Coverage Area: 219–526 sq ft
- Dimensions: 18.9 x 10.6 x 10.6 inches
- Filter Type: Washable pre-filter + internal HEPA filter
- CADR Ratings: Dust (141), Pollen (141), Smoke (141)
- Smart Features: Wi-Fi, mobile app, voice control, child lock
A Great Budget Option for Small Spaces
Levoit Air Purifier 3-in-1 Filter Cleaner
CREDIT: AMAZON
Levoit Core Mini Air Purifier
Best Compact & Quiet Purifier for Small Spaces
What We Like:
- Compact, lightweight, and easy to move around.
- Quiet operation with a 25 dB noise rating—ideal for bedrooms or offices.
- Three-stage filtration effectively filters smoke, dust, allergens, and smaller particles.
What We Don’t Like:
- Less effective at capturing larger particles like pet hair compared to other models.
- Power cord is somewhat short, may require an extension cord.
This petite purifier measures just 6.5 x 6.5 x 10.4 inches and handles air purification in rooms up to 337 square feet. While it may not catch big pet hair as well as larger units, it still performs well on dust, allergens, and smoke.
Available in black or white, the Core Mini lacks smart features but offers straightforward, quiet operation at a very approachable size and weight for smaller spaces.
Specs:
- Coverage Area: 337 sq ft
- Dimensions: 6.5 x 6.5 x 10.4 inches
- Filter Type: HEPA (3-stage filtration)
- Noise Level: 25 dB
- Smart Features: None
- CADR Rating: Not listed
Best Quiet
Rabbit Air MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier
CREDIT: AMAZON
Rabbit Air MinusA2 Ultra Quiet HEPA Air Purifier
Best for Quiet Operation & Stylish Design
What We Like:
- Sleek, modern design suitable for standalone use or wall mounting.
- Ultra-quiet operation with silent and sleep modes, including a display-off option for undisturbed sleep.
- Advanced five-layer filtration removes pet allergens, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and other pollutants effectively.
- Smart capabilities with app monitoring and on-device air quality indicators.
- Comes with a generous 5-year warranty.
What We Don’t Like:
- Significantly pricier than other purifiers on the market.
With a coverage area of up to 700 square feet and dimensions of 20 x 21.4 x 7 inches, the MinusA2 combines powerful performance with minimal noise and a modern aesthetic. It’s an excellent choice for pet owners who want thorough air purification and smart features, especially in quiet environments like bedrooms.
Specs:
- Coverage Area: 700 sq ft
- Dimensions: 20 x 21.4 x 7 inches
- Filter Type: HEPA (5 layers, including pet allergy filter and activated carbon)
- CADR Rating: 166 (smoke), 173 (dust), 171 (pollen)
- Smart Capabilities: Yes (Wi-Fi enabled)
Best for Odors
Levoit Core 300S Air Purifier
CREDIT: AMAZON
Levoit Core 300s Smart True HEPA Air Purifier
Best for Odors & Smart Home Integration
What We Like:
- Effectively removes irritants and odors with three power levels.
- Built-in air quality sensors with four color-coded indicators to show pollution levels in real-time.
- Wifi-enabled for app control and voice command compatibility.
- One of the quietest purifiers tested, even on the highest setting.
What We Don’t Like:
- Less effective at capturing larger particles like pet hair compared to other models.
This compact purifier (8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inches) covers rooms up to 219 square feet and features a three-stage filtration system: pre-filter, true HEPA filter, and activated carbon filter for odors and fumes. Its noise level maxes out at 58 decibels, about as quiet as a dishwasher, with a dedicated sleep mode that dims lights and lowers noise for nighttime use.
Specs:
- Coverage Area: 219 sq ft
- Dimensions: 8.7 x 8.7 x 14.2 inches
- Filter Type: HEPA + activated carbon + pre-filter
- CADR Rating: 141
- Smart Capabilities: Yes (WiFi and voice control)
Best for Allergies
Bionaire True HEPA 360 UV Air Purifier
CREDIT:AMAZON
Bionaire True HEPA 360 UV Air Purifier
Best for Allergy Relief with UV and Ionizer Features
What We Like:
- 360-degree air intake and filtration for thorough air cleaning from all sides.
- UV light kills bacteria and germs, boosting sanitization.
- Ionizer attracts and traps pet hair and dander, improving allergen capture.
- Two customizable nighttime settings for display illumination to suit your preference.
- Noticeably improves air quality in under 30 minutes.
What We Don’t Like:
- Highest fan speed is quite loud, making conversations difficult at that setting.
This purifier uses six filtration stages: two pre-filters (fabric + mesh), true HEPA filter, activated carbon filter, UV light, and an ionizer. Its cylindrical design with a built-in handle allows easy portability around your home.
The device has three fan speeds; the two lower settings are quiet enough for everyday use and sleeping, while the highest speed is loud but effective for rapid air purification. Additional features include a night-light mode and an 8-hour timer.
Specs:
- Coverage Area: 175–848 sq ft
- Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 15 inches
- Filter Type: HEPA + pre-filters + carbon + UV + ionizer
- CADR Rating: 113
- Smart Capabilities: No
Ideal if you want a versatile purifier that cleans quickly and includes UV and ionizer tech for extra germ-killing and pet hair control. The noise level on high is a tradeoff for speed, so it’s best used on medium or low settings for daily comfort. Replacement filters and UV bulbs are affordable and easy to install.
Best Splurge
Dyson Purifier Cool
CREDIT: AMAZON
Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 Smart Air Purifier and Fan
Best for Quiet, Efficient Filtration with Cooling and Smart Features
What We Like:
- Quiet operation even at the highest fan speed—won’t disrupt sleep or entertainment.
- Oscillates to distribute purified air evenly throughout the room.
- Rapidly clears fine particulate matter like smoke and dust.
- Tall, elongated design with a small footprint makes it a space-saving floor fan.
What We Don’t Like:
- Filter can be tricky to reattach during replacements.
Performance & Features:
The Dyson Purifier Cool TP07 stands out for its powerful air cleaning combined with a cooling fan function. It was our previous Best Overall choice due to this blend of features and quiet operation.
Though it’s larger in height (41 inches), its slim design ensures it won’t take up much floor space. The unit’s smart features include Wi-Fi connectivity, a user-friendly app, and a magnetized remote—allowing you to monitor and adjust air quality settings easily.
The purifier automatically senses air quality changes and adjusts its settings accordingly, with real-time updates sent to the app and control panel. You can also switch to backward airflow mode to run the purifier without cooling.
Specs:
- Coverage Area: Not specified
- Dimensions: 4.72 x 8 x 41 inches
- Filter Type: HEPA
- CADR Rating: Not specified
- Smart Capabilities: Yes (Wi-Fi, app control, remote)
Summary:
The Dyson TP07 is an excellent choice if you want a quiet, efficient air purifier that doubles as a cooling fan with smart home integration. Its slim floor-standing design is practical for homes where space is limited. The main drawback is the tricky filter reattachment, but its performance and features justify its premium price for many users.
Best Budget for Big Room
Veva 9000 Air Purifier
CREDIT: VEVA
Veva ProHEPA 9000 Air Purifier
Best Budget Option for Large Spaces
What We Like:
- Four-layer filtration system effectively removes pollutants.
- Permanent, washable pre-filter reduces maintenance costs.
- Filters are easy to access and replace.
- Available in two colors: black or white.
What We Don’t Like:
- No smart connectivity features (no Wi-Fi or app control).
Performance & Features:
The Veva ProHEPA 9000 is designed for large rooms up to 600 square feet, making it a great budget-friendly option for those needing wide coverage without breaking the bank. It offers three fan speeds, including an ultra-turbo mode for heavy pollution like strong odors, smoke, and pet dander.
The filtration system includes a washable pre-filter and a HEPA filter capable of capturing particles as small as 0.3 microns. Filter maintenance is straightforward, with recommendations to replace the filter every 2–6 months based on usage.
While it lacks smart features such as remote or app control, its easy-to-use design and effective filtration make it a solid choice for those prioritizing performance and affordability.
Specs:
- Coverage Area: 600 square feet
- Dimensions: 8.3 x 12.68 x 20.6 inches
- Filter Type: HEPA with washable pre-filter
- CADR Rating: Not available
- Smart Capabilities: No
Summary:
The Veva ProHEPA 9000 is a practical and affordable air purifier for larger rooms, with easy filter maintenance and solid filtration performance. It’s best suited for users who want effective air cleaning without the need for smart technology.
Final Verdict
Our top recommendation is the Winix 5500-2 4-Stage True HEPA Air Purifier. With its powerful multi-stage filtration system, it’s highly effective at capturing pet hair, dander, and other airborne allergens. It also runs quietly and features smart sensors that automatically adjust settings based on air quality—while conserving energy and dimming display lights at night.
If you’re looking for a more affordable option, the Levoit Core Mini Air Purifier is a great choice under $100. Despite its compact size, it can filter spaces up to 327 square feet and operates quietly—ideal for small rooms or apartments.
Other Options
- Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier
Once our top budget pick based on home testing, the Hamilton Beach TrueAir ultimately didn’t measure up in our controlled lab environment. While we appreciated its ultra-quiet performance—clocking in at just 48.1 decibels on whisper mode—its filtration power was lacking. In our PM 2.5 test, it only reduced levels to 275.7 after five minutes in a sealed greenhouse, leaving room for improvement compared to other purifiers at a similar price point. - Pure Enrichment PureZone Air Purifier
Previously selected as our best portable pick, the PureZone stands out for its lightweight design and convenient handle. However, it underperformed in our lab tests. After five minutes on its lowest setting, PM 2.5 levels only dropped from 999.9 to 829.2—making it one of the least effective models we tested for reducing fine particulate matter.
What to Look for in an Air Purifier
Choosing an air purifier for your home—especially with pets—means balancing scientifically proven features with helpful (and sometimes unnecessary) tech enhancements. Some models offer app control, voice commands, or remote operation, while others keep things simple. The following guide breaks down the most essential features and terms so you can make the most informed decision.
Key Terminology
- HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air):
Certified HEPA filters remove at least 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns—including dust, pollen, mold, and pet dander. According to the EPA, this is the gold standard for air filtration in residential spaces. - CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate):
This score measures how quickly an air purifier can filter dust, pollen, and smoke. A higher CADR equals faster, more efficient air cleaning. A general rule: choose a unit with a CADR that’s at least two-thirds the square footage of your room (e.g., a 100 sq ft room should have a minimum CADR of 67). - Activated Carbon Filter:
These filters neutralize odors and gases, including smoke and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Since they don’t capture fine particles like pollen or mold, they’re most effective when paired with a HEPA filter. - Pre-Filter:
The first line of defense, this filter captures large particles like pet hair and dust. While helpful, pre-filters aren’t meant to replace a vacuum cleaner’s role in hair removal. - UV Light:
Found in select models (like the Bionaire 360 UV), UV lights help kill airborne bacteria and germs inside the purifier’s chamber. They’re often combined with HEPA and carbon filters for maximum effectiveness.
Strength and Room Size
Power and room compatibility vary widely. Most air purifiers specify a recommended coverage area (in square or cubic feet), which is essential for matching the device to your needs.
If you have multiple pets or household members with allergies, consider models with higher CADR ratings and multi-stage filtration.
Design, Features, and Noise
- Design & Placement:
Choose a model that complements your space, especially if it will live in a visible area like the living room or bedroom. Many models come in different colors or finishes. - Smart Features:
App control, voice commands, and auto sensors are great for convenience. Some also feature night modes that dim display lights or reduce fan speeds. - Noise Levels:
Some purifiers generate soothing white noise, while others are nearly silent. Many models allow you to adjust the sound output, or switch to a quieter setting at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do air purifiers work?
Air purifiers typically use one or more of the following technologies:
- HEPA Filters: Trap tiny airborne particles like pet dander, dust, and pollen.
- Activated Carbon Filters: Absorb gases and neutralize odors.
- UV Light: Kills airborne bacteria and viruses inside the purifier.
Do air purifiers reduce pet dander?
Yes. HEPA filters are especially effective at trapping pet dander, which ranges from 5 to 10 microns in size. HEPA filters can trap particles as small as 0.3 microns.
Do air purifiers remove pet hair?
To some extent. Air purifiers with pre-filters or HEPA filters can trap floating pet hair, but hair embedded in carpets, clothing, or upholstery will still need vacuuming.
Where is the best place to keep an air purifier?
Place your air purifier close to the pollutant source for best results—like near your pet’s bed, litter box, or a frequently used couch. Ensure there’s enough space around it for unobstructed airflow.
How do you maintain an air purifier?
Follow the manufacturer’s cleaning and filter replacement schedule:
- Reusable filters can often be rinsed or vacuumed.
- Replaceable filters should typically be swapped every 3 to 6 months.
- Some units have indicator lights that alert you when it’s time to clean or replace a filter.
Do I need a HEPA filter?
Not necessarily. Some manufacturers use proprietary filtration technologies. However, HEPA filters remain the industry standard, especially if you’re targeting allergens like pet dander or pollen. For a filter to be HEPA certified, it must meet the U.S. Department of Energy standards and remove 99.97% of 0.3-micron particles.