Pet dander refers to the tiny particles of skin, fur, feathers, or saliva that pets shed. These particles can become airborne and settle on surfaces in your home, leading to allergies and other health issues. Even if you don’t have a pet allergy, pet dander can still cause respiratory problems and worsen existing conditions such as asthma. This is why it is crucial to have proper air purification in pet-friendly homes.
Inhaling pet dander can induce allergic reactions in individuals who are sensitive to it. Symptoms may include sneezing, coughing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and even difficulty breathing. In severe cases, exposure to pet dander can lead to asthma attacks or other respiratory complications. It’s important to note that pet dander can remain in the environment for long periods of time, even after the pet has left the area.
Having an air purifier in your home can help remove pet dander from the air, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and respiratory issues. Air purifiers work by filtering out airborne particles, including pet dander, and improving the overall air quality in your home. This is especially important for pet owners who want to create a healthy living environment for themselves and their furry friends.
Why Air Purifiers are Effective in Removing Pet Dander?
Air purifiers are highly effective in removing pet dander from the air because they use various filtration methods to capture and trap these particles. The most common type of air purifier for pet dander removal is one that utilizes a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filter.
HEPA filters are engineered to capture particles as tiny as 0.3 microns with a 99.97% efficiency rate. This means that they can effectively capture pet dander particles and prevent them from circulating in the air. By removing pet dander from the air, air purifiers can significantly reduce the risk of allergic reactions and respiratory issues caused by pet allergies.
In addition to removing pet dander, air purifiers can also help eliminate other airborne pollutants such as dust, pollen, mold spores, and bacteria. This makes them a valuable tool for improving indoor air quality and creating a healthier living environment for both humans and pets.
Best Air Purifiers for Pets
1. Levoit EverestAir
The Levoit EverestAir air purifier exudes both power and elegance with its sleek white and silver design, distinguishing itself in the realm of air purifiers.
Levoit has truly raised the bar with this air purifier, offering a premium solution tailored for discerning pet owners seeking to combat pet hair, dander, and odors with finesse.
With an impressive CADR, this air purifier can circulate clean air 4.5 times per hour in rooms up to 558 sq. ft., capable of clearing our test space in just 13 minutes, making it the fastest unit tested to date.
What we like:
- The VeSync app is intuitive, allowing for remote control and real-time air quality monitoring.
- Operates quietly on low fan speed while maintaining high performance, purifying our test room in just 33 minutes.
- Equipped with a large pelleted carbon filter specifically designed for pet odors.
- Compatible with Google Home & Alexa for seamless voice control.
Areas for improvements:
- Although compact, the addition of wheels allows for effortless mobility throughout the home.
- This premium unit comes with a premium price tag.
- Genuine filter replacements can be costly.
In addition to its remarkable performance, the EverestAir features smart functionalities such as auto mode powered by Levoit’s AirSight Plus technology, adjusting fan speed based on room pollution levels. Air quality readings are conveniently displayed on the unit’s screen and the VeSync mobile app.
The three-stage filtration system includes a washable prefilter, main filter for airborne particles, and honeycomb-activated carbon filter for odor removal, simplifying maintenance and enhancing pet hair removal.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Overall Rating: ★★★★★
- Time to clean our test room: 13 minutes
- Air purification technology: Utilizes a 3-Stage Filtration system consisting of a prefilter, main filter, and activated carbon filter.
- Recommended room size: 558 sq. ft.
- Clean air delivery rate: 360CFM {612 m3 / h}
- Dimensions: 18.9L x 8.5W x 23.2H inches {48L x 21.6W x 58.9H cm}
- Weight: 20.7 lbs (9.38 kg)
- Noise level: 24 – 56dB
- Filter life: 12-15 months
- Warranty: 2 years
- Estimated energy consumption: $87.25 per year
- Country of manufacture: China
2. Alen BreatheSmart 75i
Alen BreatheSmart 75i air purifier stands out as a formidable choice, equipped with an H13 HEPA filter and substantial activated carbon, effectively purifying spaces of up to 1,300 sq. ft. with ease.
As the flagship model from Alen, the 75i boasts an impressive CADR of 347 CFM, making it an ideal option for large rooms or expansive open-concept spaces. Alen, headquartered in Austin, Texas, prides itself on crafting durable air purifiers, offering a lifetime warranty to those who enroll in their filter subscription program.
Featuring robust filters, the 75i includes a washable pre-filter, essential for extending the lifespan of the main filter, particularly in environments with high levels of pet hair. Additionally, it incorporates an H13 HEPA filter capable of capturing particles as small as 0.1 microns, including pet dander, along with an activated carbon filter to neutralize unwanted pet odors.
What we like:
- Efficient Auto Mode and comprehensive app support.
- Real-time air quality indicator with color-coded display on the control panel.
- Quick air filtration capability, purifying our test room in just 24 minutes.
- Easily removable and washable pre-filter.
- Backed by a lifetime warranty from Alen.
Areas for potential improvements:
- The entry-level filter option (Pure) lacks activated carbon.
- Considerable size and weight may hinder maneuverability.
- Comes with a built-in ionizer that can be turned off as required.
Moreover, the 75i incorporates built-in ionizing technology, aiding in precipitating airborne particles to the ground. While beneficial for airborne dander and pet hair, it’s essential to note that ionizers can pose risks to both pets and humans. Thankfully, the ionizer feature can be deactivated when necessary.
In terms of design, the BreatheSmart 75i exudes sophistication and understated elegance, seamlessly blending into any home environment. Notably, its side-mounted air intakes allow for placement near walls without compromising performance, a practical feature, particularly in households with larger pets where stability is crucial.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Overall Rating: ★★★★☆
- Time to clean our test room: 24 minutes
- Air purifier technology: Uses True HEPA H13 filters with activated carbon pellets + Ionizer technology
- Recommended room size: Up to 1,300 sq. ft. [2 ACH]
- Clean air delivery rate [CADR]: 347 CFM [589 m³/h]
- Dimensions: 27H x 18.5W x 11.5D inches (68.58H x 46.99W x 29.21D cm)
- Weight: 12.2 kg (27 lbs)
- Noise level (low – high): 24 – 49dB
- Filter life: 12 – 15 months
- Manufacturer’s warranty: Lifetime (upon product registration and active filter subscription).
- Estimated energy consumption: $47.30 per year
- Country of manufacture: China
3. Levoit Vital 200S
For less than $190, you can acquire the most efficient air purifier we’ve tested, suitable for rooms up to 400 sq. ft.
Pet-related odors and hair can present challenges in maintaining a clean living environment. Managing pet-related debris is a common concern, whether you’re a dedicated dog owner or a proud cat enthusiast. Levoit Vital 200S air purifier provides a solution with its washable pre-filter, designed to capture pet hair and prolong the life of the primary filters.
Alongside the pre-filter, the Vital 200S is equipped with a HEPA H13 main filter, proficient in removing pet dander and other airborne allergens, complemented by an activated carbon filter infused with pelleted charcoal to counteract pet odors and other gases.
What we like:
- Exceptional air cleaning performance relative to cost; our test room was purified in just 21 minutes, all for under $200!
- Built-in air quality sensor enables smart functions like Auto Mode.
- Manageable through the Vesync app, offering functionality similar to other Levoit models.
- Abundance of options for generic filter replacements, promoting long-term cost efficiency.
- Automatic display shutdown and silent operation in low-light conditions.
Areas for potential improvements:
- Periodic cleaning of air quality sensors required every two months, which may be overlooked, affecting the efficiency of Auto Mode.
- Recent advertising disputes forced Levoit to remove HEPA mentions from other units, raising concerns about advertising transparency.
Furthermore, the Levoit Vital 200S boasts pet-friendly attributes, including remarkably quiet operation compared to competing models, ensuring minimal disturbance to pets. At its lowest fan speed, the 200S emits a mere whisper at 24 dB, while its highest setting produces noise akin to moderate rainfall or a normal conversation at 54 dB.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Overall Rating: ★★★★★
- Time to clean our test room: 21 minutes
- Air purifier technology: H13 True HEPA and activated charcoal filter
- Recommended room size: Up to 375 sq. ft. (5 ACH)
- Clean air delivery rate (CADR):
- Smoke: 242 CFM
- Dust: 263 CFM
- Pollen: 240 CFM
- Dimensions: 15.6D x 8.5W x 19.8H inches {39.3D x 21.5W x 50.2H cm}
- Weight: 13.2 lbs (5.9 kg)
- Noise level (low – high): 24 – 54 dB
- Filter life: 12 months
- Manufacturer’s warranty: 2 years
- Estimated energy consumption: $37.84 per year
- Country of manufacture: China
Factors to Consider While Purchasing Air Purifiers for Pet Dander and Odor Removal
There are several types of air purifiers available on the market that can effectively remove pet dander from the air. Some of the most common types include HEPA filters, activated carbon filters, UV-C light technology, and ionic air purifiers.
- HEPA filters are considered the gold standard in air purification for pet dander removal. They are highly efficient at capturing small particles, including pet dander, and are recommended by allergists and medical professionals for individuals with pet allergies.
- Activated carbon filters are effective at removing pet odors and chemicals from the air. They work by adsorbing these substances onto their porous surface, trapping them and preventing them from being released back into the air.
- UV-C light technology is a powerful tool for destroying microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and mold spores. It can also help break down pet dander particles, making them easier to capture and remove from the air.
- Ionic air purifiers use an electrostatic charge to attract and capture airborne particles. While they can be effective at removing pet dander, they also produce ozone as a byproduct, which can be harmful to humans and pets in high concentrations.
Maintenance and Care Tips for Air Purifiers in Pet-Friendly Homes
Proper maintenance and care are essential for ensuring that your air purifier continues to effectively remove pet dander from the air. Here are some tips to help you keep your air purifier in optimal condition:
- Regularly clean or replace the filters: Depending on the type of air purifier you have, the filters may need to be cleaned or replaced regularly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance and make sure to check the filters regularly.
- Vacuum and dust your home regularly: In addition to using an air purifier, it is important to vacuum and dust your home regularly to remove any pet dander that may have settled on surfaces. This will help reduce the amount of pet dander in the air and improve indoor air quality.
- Keep your pets clean: Regularly grooming and bathing your pets can help reduce the amount of pet dander they shed. This will not only benefit their health but also help keep your home cleaner and reduce the workload on your air purifier.
- Avoid smoking indoors: Smoking indoors can release harmful chemicals and particles into the air, including pet dander. If you or someone in your household smokes, it is important to do so outside or in a well-ventilated area to prevent these particles from entering your home.
Finding the Best Air Purifier for Your Pets
In conclusion, having proper air purification in pet-friendly homes is crucial for maintaining a healthy living environment. Pet dander can cause allergies and respiratory issues, making it important to invest in an air purifier that can effectively remove these particles from the air.
Fausto Tatiur, the founder of RecetteCookies, has been deeply involved in researching air purifiers and indoor air quality since 2019. Serving as our chief tester, he supervises all evaluations conducted on air quality products. Therefore, you’ll consistently see his name associated with our reviews.