Black & Decker dustbuster furbuster AdvanceClean+ Cordless Pet Handheld Vacuum

Owning multiple pets means dealing with an endless supply of pet hair, so finding an efficient tool for cleaning is essential. That's why I was excited to get my hands on the Black & Decker Furbuster AdvanceClean+ Cordless Pet Handheld Vacuum (HHVK515JP07). After putting it through its paces, I’m ready to share my experience.

First off, the cordless design is a game-changer. The convenience of not being tethered to an outlet allowed me to move freely around the house. This is particularly useful when navigating tight spaces or cleaning multiple rooms without having to constantly switch outlets. The vacuum is powered by a 20V MAX lithium-ion battery, which promises extended usage. In practice, I found the battery life to be quite satisfactory for short cleaning sessions, though it did require a full four hours to recharge completely.

One of the standout features of this vacuum is the POWERBOOST mode, which provides extra suction power when needed. This mode was particularly effective for tackling stubborn pet hair embedded in my couch and carpet. However, the increase in suction comes at the cost of battery life, so I used it sparingly.

The anti-tangle motorized pet brush is another highlight. It significantly reduces the hassle of having to manually remove tangled pet hair from the brush, which is a common issue with many vacuums. This brush, combined with the vacuum's strong suction, proved effective in lifting pet hair from both furniture and rugs. However, it didn't entirely eliminate the problem of hair getting trapped in fabric weave, but it did a commendable job for the most part.

The extendable crevice tool is a thoughtful addition. It made reaching tight corners and crevices in my car and between couch cushions much easier. The tool extends quite a bit, providing extra reach without compromising the vacuum's portability. The crevice tool, however, is custom to this vacuum, so if you were hoping to use other vacuum accessories, you’d be out of luck.

One of the vacuum's practical aspects is the one-touch easy empty dust bowl. Emptying the vacuum after each use was straightforward and mess-free. The dust bowl is a decent size, so I didn't have to empty it too frequently during a single cleaning session. The washable pre-filter and filter also add to the maintenance convenience, ensuring the vacuum performs optimally with regular upkeep.

Despite its many strengths, the Furbuster isn't without its drawbacks. The vacuum is slightly on the heavier side, which could be an issue for users with arthritis or those who prefer a lightweight device. While the weight adds to its robust feel, it did make prolonged use a bit tiring.

Another minor inconvenience is the placement of the power button. It’s located right where you naturally grip the vacuum, leading to accidental power-offs or mode changes. This design flaw can be frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of a cleaning frenzy. Additionally, the vacuum lacks wall-hanging capability, which means it needs to be stored on a countertop or an appliance.

In terms of suction power, the Furbuster performs admirably for most household tasks, but it does have its limitations. It struggled with deeply embedded debris in my car’s upholstery and didn't quite live up to expectations for more intensive cleaning tasks. For everyday spot cleaning and pet hair removal, it works well, but don’t expect it to replace a full-size vacuum for deep cleaning sessions.

Durability is another area where the vacuum could use improvement. While I haven’t experienced any issues personally, other users have reported problems like the engine blowing after a few months of use. This raises concerns about the long-term reliability of the vacuum.

On the positive side, the vacuum's build quality is solid, and it has a sleek, modern design. The rubber bristles in the Powered Pet Head are effective at grabbing pet hair and even long human hair, though they do require occasional manual cleaning to maintain their efficiency. The vacuum’s dual-speed settings also provide flexibility, allowing you to choose between normal and Powerboost modes depending on the task at hand.

Overall, the Black & Decker Furbuster AdvanceClean+ Cordless Pet Handheld Vacuum is a solid performer for pet owners who need a convenient and effective tool for managing pet hair. Its cordless design, powerful suction, and practical features like the anti-tangle brush and extendable crevice tool make it a valuable addition to any cleaning arsenal. However, its weight, power button placement, and occasional durability issues are worth considering.

I would recommend this vacuum to pet owners who need a reliable handheld option for everyday cleaning tasks. It excels at picking up pet hair and provides the convenience of cordless operation. Just be mindful of its limitations and the need for regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. If you’re looking for a full-size vacuum replacement or a device for heavy-duty cleaning, you might want to explore other options. But for routine pet hair management, the Furbuster holds its own.