Best Cleaning Products and Appliances for Dog Owners

What are some of your favorite cleaning products/appliances? The reason I ask is because although my pup is short haired, he sheds a LOT and that does not make for easy cleaning! Does anyone has a particular vacuum (handheld or normal) that you really recommend for pet hair?

I thought it might be useful for everyone to have a thread of good (and safe!) cleaning products for us pet owners. What do you use for pet accidents on the carpet? What do you use for getting the doggy smell out of couch cushions and pillows?

For the smell, I have found that baking soda (and vinegar, depending on the material) can work wonders. Baking soda can be used on carpets and most upholstery!