Review of the Dyson DC31 Animal Vacuum Cleaner

The Dyson DC 31 Animal model is a lightweight handheld vacuum that is battery operated. This vacuum is designed for quick pick ups including tough pet hair.

The Animal’s dual powered motor allows for either a longer running time or extra suction for tougher vacuuming jobs. The motor is also digital which means it is three times faster and more power efficient than other handheld vacuums.

The Multi Floor model weighs only 3.4 pounds. It ranges in price from about $218 at online stores to $270 from Dyson. The DC31 Animal is backed by one of the best handheld warranties; 2 year parts and labor.

Dyson DC31 Animal Features:

• Cyclonic Technology
• Dual Powered Digital Motor
• Hygienic and easily empties
• Lightweight and balanced
• Energy Star rated
• Motorized Brush Bar and additional tools
• Cordless

Cyclonic Technology:

All Dyson vacuums have the powerful Root Cyclone technology and it is surprising to have all this power in a handheld. The cyclone technology means that you won’t lose suction or have power fluctuation even when the dust bin gets almost full. So, you have a handheld that will efficiently remove microscopic dust and dirt into the clear quick empty bin.

Digital Motor:

The motor in the DC31 Animal is a digital motor that is smaller and lighter than most handhelds. Don’t be fooled by its size because it is still very powerful and can pick up tough pet hair. It has two power modes so that you can choose 10 minutes of a high constant suction for larger areas; or 6 minutes running time for a more powerful suction (70% higher) for tougher jobs such as pet hair.

Accessories:

Most handhelds do not come with many accessories, but this Animal does. You receive a combination accessory tool that will pick up debris and then converts to a brush tool to use for dusting. There is also a crevice tool for getting in between tight spaces and cleaning baseboards. A motorized brush bar is included to remove deep down dirt and pet hair from carpets.

Dyson DC31 Animal Recommendations:

The Dyson DC31 Animal model vacuum is recommended by Mrs. Clean but with consideration.

It is a great handheld, but the battery will not last longer than 10 minutes (which is still more than most other brands). Another more versatile option may be the Dyson DC35 Multi Floor. It has the same body but comes with a motorized floor brush bar, a long reach wand and a battery that can last up to 15 minutes. The price for the DC35 is about $30 more, but you should check out its features and compare both models to fit your needs.

Pros:

The DC31 is made of sturdy polycarbonate construction so it is lightweight but durable.

Digital motor for powerful suction even at the end of any attachment. DC31 owners all agree that there is great suction in this handheld.

The Animal has a filtration system that expels cleaner exhaust air.

Comes standard with on board tools and a motorized brush bar for removing pet hair and dirt from carpets.

The DC31 is bagless and comes with a quick empty and hygienic dirt bin.

The Animal is Energy Star qualified for its battery charging system.

Has one of the best warranties available; 2 years parts and labor.

Cons:

Expensive, costs as much as an upright lower end vacuum. Some are not willing to pay over $200 for a handheld vacuum.

Battery life is the main complaint with 10 minutes maximum running time. It is not very convenient to have to stop in the middle of vacuuming when the battery dies. Some have purchased an additional battery to have a power “back up”.

If you have arthritis in your hands, it may not be a good handheld for your. It is turned on by having to depress a button and hold it for the entire time you are vacuuming.