Features
The Dyson DC35 Animal boasts powerful suction, efficiently removing deeply embedded pet hair and dirt from carpets, furniture, and upholstery. Its lightweight and cordless design makes it easy to maneuver and use for quick clean-ups, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The innovative ball technology provides exceptional maneuverability and effortless steering, allowing for smooth navigation. The hygienic dirt ejector ensures a clean and allergen-free experience, emptying the bin without requiring direct contact with dirt.
The tangle-free turbine tool effectively removes pet hair from furniture, stairs, and other challenging areas without clogging, while the combination tool offers both crevice and dusting functionalities, making it a versatile cleaning companion. Designed specifically for pet owners, the DC35 Animal comes equipped with animal-specific attachments, including a mini-motorised tool and a tangle-free turbine tool, both optimized for pet hair removal.
The long run time provides ample time for cleaning without needing to recharge, ensuring uninterrupted cleaning sessions. Conveniently, the vacuum can be stored and charged on a wall-mounted charging dock, saving space and maximizing accessibility.
Performance
The Dyson DC35 Animal excels at removing pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and hard floors. Its powerful suction and specialized tools, like the turbine head and tangle-free turbine tool, are designed to pick up embedded fur and clean delicate surfaces.
The DC35 Animal also performs well on general dirt and debris, effectively picking up dust, dirt, crumbs, and other common debris from various surfaces. However, its lightweight design might not be ideal for tackling heavy-duty cleaning tasks or large areas.
The DC35 Animal effectively lifts dirt and debris from carpet fibers with its powerful suction and rotating brush bar, making it a good choice for carpet cleaning. However, it might struggle with deeply embedded dirt.
The DC35 Animal is highly effective on hard floors, particularly with the included hard floor tool. Its strong suction and direct-drive brush bar provide a thorough clean without leaving streaks or residue.
The DC35 Animal features a specialized upholstery tool that is highly effective at removing dirt, pet hair, and crumbs from furniture and car interiors.
The included crevice tool and dusting brush effectively remove dust from corners, shelves, and other hard-to-reach areas, making the DC35 Animal a good option for dusting.
The DC35 Animal is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it suitable for quick cleanups. Its compact design allows for easy storage and portability, making it a convenient choice.
The DC35 Animal is relatively quiet compared to other cordless vacuums, but it can still be noticeable during use.
The DC35 Animal boasts a runtime of up to 20 minutes, which is sufficient for most quick cleanups. However, for larger areas, multiple charging cycles may be required.
What We Like
The Dyson DC35 Animal is lauded for its powerful suction, effectively tackling pet hair, dirt, and debris from various surfaces. This cordless vacuum is praised for its lightweight and portable design, making it easy to maneuver and use around the house, particularly for cleaning stairs and furniture.
The DC35 Animal comes equipped with a versatile array of cleaning tools, including a crevice tool, a dusting brush, and an upholstery tool, enhancing cleaning efficiency in different areas and surfaces. Its "cyclonic technology" facilitates a hygienic dustbin emptying process, minimizing mess and dust release back into the air.
The DC35 Animal boasts a long battery life, enabling a substantial amount of cleaning before requiring a recharge. Maintenance is straightforward, as the filter is washable and easily detachable for cleaning.
What We Don't Like
One of the main complaints about the Dyson DC35 Animal is its short battery life. Users report an average runtime of around 20 minutes on a full charge, which can be insufficient for larger homes or cleaning tasks requiring extended use.
Another common concern is the high price. The DC35 Animal is a premium cordless vacuum, and its price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious consumers.
Although lighter than some corded vacuums, the DC35 Animal is still considered heavy for a cordless model. This weight can make it cumbersome to use for extended periods or to reach high places.
The noise level during operation is also a point of contention. Some users find the vacuum to be quite loud, particularly on higher power settings.
The included attachments are basic, which may not be adequate for all cleaning needs. The lack of specialized tools can be limiting for some users.
Emptying the dustbin can be messy and inconvenient, as it requires a specific technique to avoid spills.
Some users have expressed concerns about the durability of the plastic components, specifically the dustbin and attachments.
While effective on most surfaces, the brush roll may struggle with deeply embedded dirt or pet hair on carpets, requiring multiple passes.
The intricate design of the vacuum can make cleaning the dustbin and filters challenging, requiring meticulous attention.
Finally, the DC35 Animal is not suitable for large debris or heavier items like large pieces of food or pet waste.
Cleaning Tasks
The Dyson DC35 Animal is highly suitable for pet hair removal. Its specialized "Tangle-free turbine tool" effectively picks up pet hair from upholstery, carpets, and hard floors. The powerful suction and turbine action prevent hair from clogging the brush bar.
This versatile stick vacuum is also well-suited for general dusting and debris removal. Its lightweight design and powerful suction motor make it easy to remove dust, dirt, and small debris from various surfaces.
The DC35 Animal is suitable for cleaning up spills and accidents. Its handheld design and quick release hose allow for easy access to spills and accidents on floors and furniture. The vacuum's powerful suction quickly picks up liquids and solids.
The DC35 Animal's lightweight and compact design, along with its array of attachments, makes it easy to maneuver around tight spaces and corners. It's also suitable for cleaning stairs and high places due to its lightweight and handheld design.
While the DC35 Animal can handle basic carpet cleaning tasks, it may not be as effective as dedicated carpet cleaners for deeper cleaning. However, it's suitable for hard floor cleaning with its specialized hard floor tool that effectively picks up dirt and debris.
The DC35 Animal's "Tangle-free turbine tool" and crevice tool are effective for cleaning upholstery and removing pet hair, making it highly suitable for this task. It's also suitable for cleaning car interiors, thanks to its handheld design, hose, and attachments that make it convenient for cleaning seats, carpets, and crevices.
Comparison to Other Brands
| Feature | Dyson DC35 Animal | Shark IZ201UK | Vax Blade 4 Pet | Hoover Linx Cordless | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price (approx.) | $349 | $299 | $249 | $249 | |
| Weight (without attachments) | 4.4 lbs | 6.3 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 5.1 lbs | Dyson DC35 Animal |
| Run time (max) | 20 mins | 40 mins | 40 mins | 30 mins | Shark IZ201UK & Vax Blade 4 Pet |
| Power (suction) | 100 AW | 120 AW | 100 AW | 100 AW | Shark IZ201UK |
| Battery type | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | Lithium-ion | |
| Dustbin capacity | 0.4L | 0.5L | 0.4L | 0.5L | Shark IZ201UK & Hoover Linx Cordless |
| Attachments | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, pet multi-tool | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, pet hair tool | Vax Blade 4 Pet & Hoover Linx Cordless |
| Special features | Self-cleaning brushroll | Shark IZ201UK | |||
| Overall rating | 4.5/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.3/5 | 4.2/5 | Shark IZ201UK |
The Dyson DC35 Animal is the lightest option at 4.4 pounds, making it easy to maneuver. However, its run time of 20 minutes is the shortest among the contenders.
The Shark IZ201UK boasts the highest suction power at 120 AW, offering impressive cleaning performance. It also has a self-cleaning brushroll, making it a great choice for pet owners. With a 40-minute runtime and a larger 0.5L dustbin, it provides a longer cleaning experience and less frequent emptying.
The Vax Blade 4 Pet and Hoover Linx Cordless both offer a 40-minute runtime, a 0.4L dustbin, and a similar selection of attachments as the Shark. However, they fall short in terms of suction power, reaching only 100 AW. The Vax Blade 4 Pet stands out with its included pet hair tool, enhancing its pet-specific capabilities.
The Hoover Linx Cordless provides a competitive balance with its 30-minute run time, 0.5L dustbin, and additional pet hair tool, making it a strong contender for everyday cleaning tasks.
Maintenance
To keep your Dyson DC35 Animal in tip-top shape, follow these maintenance tips:
Emptying the dustbin: Press the release button to open the lid, pull out the dustbin, and empty it into a trash bin. Replace the dustbin, ensuring it clicks into place.
Cleaning the dustbin and filters: Remove the dustbin and detach the filter. Wash the filter under running water for 5-10 minutes, then allow it to dry completely for at least 24 hours before reassembling. Clean the dustbin with a damp cloth.
Cleaning the brush bar: Turn off the vacuum, unplug it, and remove the brush bar by pressing the release button on the bottom. Remove any hair or debris with scissors, then replace the brush bar, ensuring it clicks into place.
Cleaning the cyclone unit: Turn off the vacuum, unplug it, and open the cyclone unit by pressing the release button on the side. Remove any debris with a small brush, then close the unit, ensuring it clicks into place.
Checking and cleaning the hose: Inspect the hose for any blockages or debris. Clean it with a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner attachment.
Replacing the filter: Replace the filter every 12 months or sooner if it becomes dirty or damaged. Purchase a new filter from Dyson or a reputable retailer and follow the instructions provided.
Storing the vacuum: Store the vacuum in a dry place, ensure the power cord is wrapped around it, and avoid storing it on its side or upside down.
General maintenance: Regularly inspect the vacuum for any damage or wear and tear. Contact Dyson customer support if you notice any problems.
Troubleshooting
If your Dyson DC35 Animal isn't powering on, start by checking if the battery is fully charged and if the power switch is in the ON position. Inspect the charger and charging port for any damage or debris.
If you're experiencing weak suction, begin by emptying and cleaning the dustbin to rule out blockage. Next, examine the brush bar for hair, thread, or other debris and clean or replace it as needed. Finally, check the hose and wand for any blockages and clear any obstructions.
If the battery isn't charging, ensure the charger is plugged into a working outlet and check the charging port on the vacuum for debris. Clean it carefully and try a different charger if available.
A brush bar that isn't spinning might be jammed with hair or debris. Clean it thoroughly and check the brush bar belt for wear and tear, replacing it if necessary. Inspect the motor housing for any blockages and clear any obstructions.
Unusual noises coming from the vacuum could be caused by a blocked dustbin. Empty and clean it thoroughly. Examine the brush bar for hair, thread, or other debris and clean or replace it as needed. Finally, inspect the hose and wand for any blockages and clear any obstructions.
If the vacuum isn't picking up dirt, check the dustbin for blockage and empty and clean it thoroughly. Ensure the brush bar is not clogged and is spinning freely. Examine the hose and wand for any blockages and clear any obstructions. Replace the filter if it is dirty or damaged.
If you notice air leaking from the vacuum, check the seals around the dustbin and hose for any cracks or damage. Replace them as needed. Inspect the hose and wand for any holes or tears and repair or replace them as needed.
If the vacuum isn't staying upright, check the swivel mechanism for any debris and clean it thoroughly. Inspect the wheels for any wear and tear and replace them as needed.
Conclusion
The Dyson DC35 Animal is a powerful and versatile cordless vacuum cleaner that excels at removing pet hair and general debris from various surfaces. Its lightweight and compact design makes it easy to maneuver and use for quick cleanups, especially in hard-to-reach areas. While its runtime is sufficient for most cleaning tasks, its high price point and heavy weight compared to other cordless models might be deterrents for some.
Overall, the DC35 Animal offers a blend of powerful suction, specialized pet-friendly tools, and convenient portability, making it a good option for pet owners who need a cordless vacuum for quick cleaning sessions. However, consider the trade-offs in terms of runtime and price before making a final decision. Carefully evaluate your specific needs and budget, and compare it to other cordless vacuum cleaners on the market to find the best fit for your cleaning requirements.
