Best Air Purifiers for Pet Smell 2022
Air purifiers are one of the best ways to remove pet smells from your home without getting rid of your pets. Here is a comprehensive analysis of the best air purifiers for pet odors (including pet urine odor).
Pets play a significant role in our lives. They are comforting, fun, and even protective. But we can’t ignore the fact that they introduce smells, fur, and dander, which make our homes uncomfortable.
Things could get worse for those with allergies since these particles could lead to respiratory complications. That’s why it’s crucial to invest in a high-quality air purifier.
Air purifiers eliminate foul smells, fur, and other harmful particles, keeping the air we breathe indoors clean.
After in-depth research and consulting with professionals, I have compiled a list of the best air purifiers for pet smells.
I have also included a buying guide to help you make a better decision when purchasing an air purifier.
Top 7 Air Purifiers for Pet Odors
#1. Hamilton Beach TrueAir (04384) – Best Affordable Air Purifier
Hamilton Beach TrueAir Air Purifier for Home or Office
If you’re not sure which air purifier to go for, then I suggest you check out this Hamilton Beach TrueAir.
It’s not only one of the best air cleaners on this list, but it is also one of the most AFFORDABLE.
It features three filtering stages – a combination of a HEPA filter and two replaceable carbon zeolite filters.
The HEPA filter is rated at 99%. It has been tested and proven to remove 99% of particles in the air. These particles include pet hair, dander, dust and other impurities.
The carbon filters effectively remove pet odors, VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), and other harmful gases. However, you will need to replace the filters every three months.
This air purifier covers 140 square feet, making it suitable for small to medium rooms. It also doesn’t have a large footprint, which is often the case in most air purifiers.
It’s small, light, and gorgeous too. You can even place it horizontally to make sure it doesn’t occupy a lot of space.
This air purifier has three-speed settings. It’s relatively quiet at low and medium settings, but a bit loud on the high setting.
This is normal for an air purifier, so you can always keep it at the medium settings to minimize the noise.
It’s also easy to clean by vacuuming it.
User Impressions
Most users attested to the fact that the air in their rooms tremendously improved within a few hours of installing this air purifier. For others, it took more than 48 hours, but the air was continuously better after that.
However, some users complained about the filter. It’s made of cardboard, so water would damage it. That’s why they recommend vacuuming it.
So you may have to occasionally replace it or install a more robust charcoal filter over this filter.
Pros
- It’s budget-friendly
- The 3-stage filter is quite effective in eliminating both gases and particles
- It’s easy to install and maintain
Cons
- The filter is easily damaged
- It’s loud on High setting
Click Here to Buy the Hamilton Beach TrueAir on Amazon
#2. LEVOIT LV-H132 Air Purifier
LEVOIT Air Purifier for Home, H13 True HEPA Filter
The Levoit LV-H132 not only eliminates pet dander and odors, but it also deals with mold, dust, pollen, smoke, and dust. It uses a 3-stage filtering system for efficiency.
These stages include a pre-filter, True HEPA filter, and a High-Efficiency Activated Carbon Filter.
Some air purifiers release ozone to break down pollutants, but ozone could be harmful to your lungs. You don’t have to worry about that since Levoit H-132 is Ozone-free.
You also shouldn’t worry about letting it run through the night. It has a 25dB noise level, also known as white noise, which allows you to sleep.
However, you should keep in mind that it has three speeds, which will enable you to choose the amount of air you want to circulate. So the noise levels may vary depending on the speed setting.
You can also switch the light to a night light for better sleep. The filters are replaced every 6 to 8 months. This air purifier even has an indicator that alerts you when the filter needs to be replaced.
And that’s not all. It is FCC certified, CARB certified, and ETL listed. This means that it’s safe and adheres to regulations stipulated for indoor devices.
User Impressions
Based on customer reviews, most users said that it works as expected. One user who fosters kitties was glad that it eliminated all pet odors in her home.
Some users complained about it being loud at higher speeds, but you can always use it at lower speeds.
Pros
- It’s ozone-free
- It’s highly efficient
- It has a 2-years warranty
- Quiet operation
Cons
- It’s quite loud at higher speeds
Click Here to Buy the Levoit LV-H132 on Amazon
#3. HONEYWELL HPA300
Honeywell HPA300 True HEPA Air Purifier, Extra-Large Room
Honeywell is one of the leading manufacturers of home appliances, including humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air purifiers. This gives you more reasons to trust the Honeywell HPA300.
It doesn’t have some of the smart features you’ll find in other air purifiers. But it has the essential filters needed for eliminating pet odors, fur, and allergens.
It’s more expensive than the Levoit model, but it’s suitable for 465 square feet room while the Levoit LV-H132 works best for smaller spaces.
Besides being one of the best air purifiers for eliminating pet odors, the Honeywell HPA300 is also ranked as one of the best for allergies. And what’s more, you get a 5-years warranty on this air purifier.
This is more than Levoit’s 2-years warranty, confirming that this model is built to last. Just like in other air purifiers, you need to replace the filters often.
And even though it’s compatible with other third-party filters, it’s best to filters directly from the manufacturer or their approved vendors.
There’s only one downside with this air purifier. Since it has a mighty fan, the noise levels may be unbearable sometimes.
So if you’re looking for an air purifier for a smaller room, like an office or bedroom, you’ll be better off with the Hamilton Beach Trueair or Levoit LV-H132.
User Impressions
Even though this air purifier is excellent in eliminating air impurities, it has some complaints you can’t ignore.
First, some users found that the warranty only covered the manufacturer’s defects and not damage caused by regular usage.
There were also some complaints about defective appliances and poor customer service when replacing and honoring the warranty.
Pros
- It’s efficient in eliminating odors
- It covers a large area
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- It’s quite loud
- You have to replace the filters every 3 months
Click Here to Buy the Honeywell HPA300 on Amazon
#4. Germ Guardian AC5250PT
Germ Guardian True HEPA Filter Air Purifier for Home
The Germ Guardian AC5250PT comes as an upgrade to the other Germ Guardian models. So what makes it unique? It features a pet pure filter.
This filter not only gets rid of fur and dander, but it also prevents the growth of mildew, the bacteria that cause foul odors, and mold.
If you have allergies, you can rest assured that this air purifier can remove even the smallest allergen particles from the air.
This air purifier also features the Germ Guardian’s unique UV-C light. This light kills bacteria and viruses. So you not only get rid of pet smells, but you also get rid of the disease-causing viruses.
It comes with 5-speed settings, and most of these settings are relatively quiet. If you’ll not be home for some time, or you want it shut down automatically as you sleep, you can take advantage of the 8-hour timer.
Like other air purifiers, you will have to replace the filter after about 7 to 8 months. The only issue is that the pre-filter and carbon filter are connected.
So you will have to replace the whole filtering system every year. This process is quite expensive.
User Impressions
Most users agree that this is one of the best odor air purifiers. However, there were some complaints about the UV bulbs blowing. It turns out the bulbs blew due to power surges.
So you can install power surge protectors on the units.
Pros
- Five years limited warranty
- It covers 183 square feet
- The electronic controls are easy to use
- It’s relatively quiet even at higher speeds
Cons
- It may be sensitive to power surges.
- Filter replacements are expensive
Click Here to Buy the Germ Guardian on Amazon
#5. HOmelabs 4-in-1 Compact Air Purifier for Pet Odors
hOmeLabs 4-in-1 Compact Air Purifier- Reduces Odors and Particles from the Air
This HOmelabs is different than the other models reviewed here. Besides using the pre-filter, carbon, and HEPA filters in its purification stages, it also has an air ionizer.
Air ionizers work by charging the air particles and causing them to stick on the walls and other surfaces.
I may have mentioned that ionizers may not be the best since they release ozone into the air. But the amount of ozone released depends on the strength and size of the air purifier.
This HOmelabs air purifier is tiny and covers approximately 40 square feet. So the ozone released is not significant.
Besides, air ionizers help get rid of particles that the filters couldn’t filter out. Its small size makes it convenient for people who travel often.
The manufacturer also offers a 2-year warranty, which you can extend by six months when you sign up on their website.
User Impressions
Most users stated that it’s relatively quiet and works as advertised in eliminating dander and pet smells. But the blue light seemed to be a problem to most since it prevented them from sleeping.
It would be better if there was an option to switch the light off or even have a night light.
Pros
- 2-years warranty
- It’s portable
- It uses filters and ionizing technology to enhance its efficiency
- It’s very affordable and ideal for smaller rooms
Cons
- It’s too small.
- The blue light is quite annoying at night.
Click Here to Buy the HOmelabs on Amazon
#6. Winix 5500-2
Winix 5500-2 Air Purifier with True HEPA, PlasmaWave
I don’t know why I waited this long to include the Winix 5500-2 in this list.
However, the list is not in any particular order, so its positioning shouldn’t affect your decision.
So what does this model have to offer?
In addition to the True HEPA filter, it comes with an AOC carbon filter. AOC carbon filters have activated carbon granules, which are efficient in eliminating bad odors. This makes it an excellent air purifier for pet urine odor.
Another unique feature is the PlasmaWave filters, which break down allergens, foul odors, pollen, and other impurities.
Better yet, you don’t need to replace the PlasmaWave filters.
And if that’s not already good enough, the Winix 5500-2 also comes with smart sensors that detect any air impurities.
It has an air quality indicator that shows the air’s quality at any given time – blue for good, orange for fair, and red when the air quality is poor.
An auto mode automatically adjusts the amount of air to be filtered, and a sleep mode that lowers the noise levels when it’s time to sleep.
This air purifier is ideal for those with larger rooms since it covers up to 360 square feet.
User Impressions
Overall, most users agree that this is one of the best air purifiers for cat pee odor, dog smells, viruses, bacteria, and other air impurities.
But there was some confusion about the PlasmaWave feature. Even though it’s effective, it does release ozone. And as we mentioned earlier, ozone is quite dangerous to people with respiratory issues.
The good news is that you can disable this PlasmaWave feature. All Winix products have an option to limit ozone emissions, a feature you will not find in other air purifiers.
Pros
- It has smart features
- The PlasmaWave filter is effective and permanent
- Four fan speeds
- It’s ideal for medium to large rooms
- 1-year limited warranty.
- It also comes with remote control.
Cons
- PlasmaWave filters emit ozone
- You still have to replace the other filters
Click Here to Buy the Winix 5500-2 on Amazon
#7. Alen BreatheSmart Large Room Air Purifier
Alen Breathesmart Classic, Pet Dander/Odor, White
The Alen Breathesmart is for you if you’d like to eliminate pet odors and allergens from larger rooms. It covers up to 1100 square feet.
NASA’s airflow engineers designed this air purifier, giving you even more reasons to bet on its functionality.
It’s very effective in eliminating pet smells and dander, thanks to the four high-quality HEPA filters.
You’ll also find the air quality sensor useful since it shows the air quality at a given time. This air purifier also comes with 4-speed settings and an auto mode that will adjust the fan speeds based on the air quality.
Are you worried about the noise levels due to the power this appliance exhibits? You shouldn’t since it features the WhisperMAx technology that ensures a white/pink noise that’s tolerable and easier to sleep through.
User Impressions
Does this air purifier work? Yes. Most users confirmed that they noticed an overall change in the air quality after installing this air purifier.
They found the noise to be bearable, and the auto mode was great in regulating the air quality. But we can’t ignore the complaints about it breaking after a few months or even days.
That being said, the manufacturer responded promptly to these issues, so be sure to liaise with them when such issues arise.
Pros
- It has a convenient automode
- The smart features make it easier to operate
- It covers 1100 square feet
- Four fan speeds
Cons
- It may be too loud at higher speeds
Click Here to Buy the Alen Breathesmart on Amazon
Factors to Consider When Buying an Air Purifier for Pet Odors – Buyers Guide
Before making that purchase, please consider the following factors:
Room size and placement
Manufacturers indicate the room size their models can cover in square feet. So make sure the size of your room corresponds to the air purifier’s coverage.
Since we’re dealing with pet smells, you should consider placing it in areas where the pet stay.
The placement also determines the noise levels you can tolerate. If you’re going to put it in the bedroom, make sure it’s not too noisy.
Maintenance costs
You have to replace the filters at least once a year. So you need to check the cost of these filters and their availability. The frequency of replacing these filters also matters.
Some can last up to 8 months, while others need to be replaced after three months.
Type of filtration
For pet dander, pet smells, smoke, foul smells from the kitchen, and the garage, HEPA filters are fine.
But when you have to get rid of viruses, mold, and bacteria, ionizers and UV filters are your best option. Some air purifiers have all of these modes, and you just have to switch when necessary.
Smart features
Features like automode and smart sensing can help in conserving power and enhancing the appliance’s efficiency. When the air quality is great, they circulate less air and even lower the noise levels.
Some models automatically switch to a night mode, which allows them to work without disturbing your sleep.
Models with smart features are often more expensive and prone to damages. If you’re on a budget, you can omit these features since you can still operate the air purifier manually.
Warranty and Customer service
Based on the reviews, you’ll see cases where the devices broke down after months or even days of purchase. Having to fix or replace it after such a short time is very expensive.
So make sure the manufacturer offers a considerable warranty and that they cover most damages.
They should also respond promptly to queries. It’s also essential to look for reputable companies that have a reputation to uphold in such a case.
CADR Rating
CADR (Clean Air Delivery Rate) is the rate at which the purifier removes pollen, dust, and other particles from the air. A CADR of 300 or higher is preferable.
DIY Methods for Getting Rid of Pet Smells
Below are some ways to supplement your air purifier.
Clean Often
When I say clean, I don’t mean sweeping. Sweeping will only upset the pet dander, undoing what an air purifier did, especially if you’re using an ionizer.
It would be best to use a damp cloth to wipe the furniture and a moist mop to clean the floors. You can also use a vacuum cleaner that has HEPA filters.
It would also help if you emptied the litter boxes regularly to ensure the smell doesn’t spread within the house.
Ventilate Your Rooms
Make sure your rooms are getting enough air circulation to ensure the foul smells don’t settle. For even more air circulation, you can keep the windows open for some time.
Limit Your Pets to Certain Areas
Bedrooms are the most sensitive areas since dander can settle on the sheets and blankets. So you can make it off-limits and confine the pets to areas that are easier to clean.
Bathe Your Pets Often
Bathing your cats prevents them from shedding too much dander, as well as help get rid of most of the smells. Imagine if you went for days without bathing.
Related Article:
- How to Get Rid of Pet Odor in the House
- 6 Best Plug In Air Purifiers
- 6 Best Vacuums for Pet Hair on Carpet and Hardwood Floors
Frequently Asked Questions
Do air purifiers get rid of pet odors?
Yes, air purifiers can get rid of pet odor, pet dander, allergens and other impurities in the air, making the air cleaner and safer to breathe in.
How do air purifiers work?
Air purifiers basically work by sanitizing the air to get rid of pollutants, dust particles, foul smells and other impurities. The way this purification or sanitization is done depends on the type of air purifier.
Types of Air Purifiers
There are four main types of air purifiers.
Filters
Filter air purifiers run the air through the filters, whereby the harmful particles remain on the filters while clean air is cycled back into the room. These filters will then need to be replaced regularly since they wear out quickly.
The most common filters are the HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air Filters). They are often made of fiberglass, and they are the most effective, capturing even the smallest particles.
You may come across reusable filters, but they require a lot of maintenance.
Ionizers
As mentioned earlier, ionizers charge the particles causing them to settle on other surfaces. We also noted that ionizers emit ozone, which is harmful to the lungs.
Some air purifiers indicate if they emit ozone. But some manufacturers may not disclose or may even mislead the buyers about ozone emissions.
Since ionizers have their benefits, you can look for an air purifier that allows you to switch off the ionizer mode when you don’t need it.
UV Air Purifiers
This type uses UV-C light to kill bacteria, molds, and viruses. UV-C lights are included in filter cleaners to make them more effective.
Ozone Air Purifiers
These cleaners use the process of oxidation to break down bacteria. But we don’t recommend ozone purifiers for pet smell.
Is a pet air purifier essential?
Those with allergies related to pet smells and dander can benefit from air purifiers since they get rid of allergens, foul odors, and bacteria.
However, there’s limited research on how air purifiers alleviate other respiratory conditions since the air impurities may not have caused them.
One thing’s for sure. You’ll be on the safer side if you install an air purifier.
This applies even to those with no pets since air purifiers also eliminate foul odors from the kitchen, waste bins, smoke, and even dust in highly polluted areas.
Best Air Purifiers for Pet Smells – Final Thoughts
Having a good air purifier for pet smells will help you get rid of the unpleasant odors without getting rid of your adorable pets. I hope that the detailed analysis and buying guide provided in this article will help you make an informed buying decision.
Did you find this list of the best air purifiers for pet smell helpful? leave your feedback below.
