This pet air purifier has effectively replaced allergy medicine for me – here’s how it works

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I’ve tested plenty of air purifiers, from smart to ionizing, ultraviolet to multipurpose. I’ve definitely found my favorites, and the ones I keep around tend to have at least one of these qualities: extraordinary performance against pet hair and dander, ease of maintenance, and top-notch filtration. 

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While this sounds like a simple list, the only air purifier I’ve tested that truly aces all three items is the Dreame AP10. The multi-stage filtration and negative-pressure air-return system does wonders to remove hair from the air and even from the floor around the unit, and you can see it.

The air purifier’s body is transparent, giving you a clear view of the compartment where all the dust collects. The Dreame AP10 comes with two washable pre-filters that you wrap around the main filter. When one of the prefilters is dirty, you can remove it and replace it with the spare while you wash and dry it. 

I appreciate that the transparent body lets you see the hair and dust that collects, so you’ll always know when the prefilter needs to be washed.

Having two washable prefilters extends the life of your replaceable filter considerably. Most particles will get stuck on the prefilter and never reach the replaceable filter, so your replaceable filter stays cleaner for longer. Not having to replace your filter as often as with other air purifiers means you don’t have to spend money on new filters, which is one of my favorite features.

The AP10 also has a carbon filter in its innermost layer, which neutralizes odors in the air. The odor removal feature works wonders on lingering smells from cooking, and reviewers also commented that it’s great for removing pet odors. 

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As a smart air purifier, you can also control the Dreame AP10 through an app on your phone. This lets you adjust the air purifier settings, turn on the ambient light under the table, and more. The purifier has a digital display that shows its current status and lets you turn it on and off. 

ZDNET’s buying advice

Because the Dreame AP10 Pet Air Purifier is so effective at trapping hair and reducing odors, it is best for homes with cats or dogs that shed, especially if you have family members who are sensitive to pet dander or odors. It’s effectively replaced allergy medicine for me.

It’s especially great that having it around will not only reduce pet hair in your home, but its anti-tip construction also makes it safe for cats to relax on top. 

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The filter lasts up to a year without needing replacement, but Dreame doesn’t specify whether the replaceable internal filter meets HEPA standards. Dreame says this purifier is high-performing, with up to 254 CFM (cubic feet per minute) particle CADR (clean air delivery rate), 118 CFM formaldehyde CADR, and the ability to purify all the air in a 215-square-foot room in 7 minutes, with 99.99% capture of floating hair. 

If having a HEPA filter is important to you, especially if you have health issues that require maximum air filtration, I’d look into other air purifier options, such as those from Air Oasis or Levoit.