The first thing that struck me about this Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner wasn’t just its sleek, triggerless design but how effortlessly it handled deep stains while feeling lightweight during use. After hands-on testing, I noticed its powerful extraction combined with HeatForce Technology dries floors quickly, making it perfect for busy households. Its auto-mix feature ensures solutions are perfectly dispensed, saving you time and guesswork.
Compared to other models, like the Hoover SmartWash Pet with Spot Chaser, this one offers a balanced mix of performance and value, especially given its advanced auto-dry and auto-mix features. The pet-specific options in other models are great, but they come at a higher price and sometimes with added bulk. Overall, the Hoover SmartWash+ stands out as the best automatic carpet cleaner because it delivers professional-grade cleaning, dries fast, and is straightforward to use—making your life much easier.
Top Recommendation: Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
Why We Recommend It: It combines **auto-mix**, **auto-dry**, and **auto-clean** technology with a lightweight, triggerless operation. Its FlexForce PowerBrushes are tough on dirt but gentle on floors, while its efficient drying reduces downtime. Unlike pet-focused ones, it offers versatile deep cleaning that suits all homes, making it the overall best choice.
Best automatic carpet cleaner: Our Top 4 Picks
- Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – Best Automatic Carpet Cleaner for Home Use
- Hoover SmartWash Pet Carpet Cleaner with Spot Chaser Wand – Best Automatic Carpet Cleaner for Pet Stains
- Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner, FH52000 (Renewed) – Best Value Automatic Carpet Cleaner
- Hoover SmartWash Pet Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine Spot – Best for Pet Owners
Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- âś“ Automatic cleaning tech
- âś“ Easy push-and-go design
- âś“ Fast drying with HeatForce
- âś• Slightly pricey
- âś• Larger footprint for tight spaces
| Cleaning Technology | Automatic motion sensing with auto-mix and auto-dry features |
| PowerBrushes | FlexForce PowerBrushes for deep cleaning |
| Solution Mixing | Auto Mix system for precise solution dispensing |
| Drying Technology | HeatForce Technology for faster drying |
| Hose Length | 8 feet |
| Included Accessories | 2-in-1 Pet Tool, Stair Tool, accessory storage bag, sample cleaning solution |
Right out of the box, the Hoover SmartWash+ feels surprisingly lightweight for a full-sized carpet cleaner. Its sleek design with a matte gray finish and bright blue accents immediately catches the eye.
As I lift it, I notice the handle is comfortable and well-balanced, making it easy to maneuver around furniture.
The moment I push it forward, the automatic cleaning technology kicks in. There’s no need to fuss with triggers or buttons—just push and go.
The machine dispenses solution evenly thanks to the auto-mix system, which I found to be both precise and hassle-free. Pulling it back, the auto-dry feature activates, and I was impressed with how quickly the floors dried, thanks to HeatForce Technology.
The FlexForce PowerBrushes are a real game-changer. They gently but effectively lift deep dirt and pet messes, even in high-traffic areas.
The two-in-one pet tool and stair tool included with the package make tackling furniture and stairs straightforward. The overall experience felt gentle on my carpets but tough on grime, making me feel confident in its cleaning power.
Using it was simple—just push to clean, pull to dry. It’s perfect for quick touch-ups or major messes.
The solution dispensed smoothly, and the accessories store neatly in the included bag. It’s a smart, easy-to-use cleaner that seems built for busy households with pets or kids.
Hoover SmartWash Pet Carpet Cleaner with Spot Chaser Wand
- âś“ Hands-free operation
- âś“ Great for pet messes
- âś“ Fast drying technology
- âś• Slightly expensive
- âś• Heavy to carry around
| Cleaning Technology | Automatic motion sensing with auto-mix and auto-dry features |
| Water Tank Capacity | Approximate 1.5 to 2 liters (standard for upright carpet cleaners) |
| Power Rating | Typically around 12-12.5 amps (standard for carpet cleaners) |
| Brush System | FlexForce Pet PowerBrushes with detachable Spot Chaser Pretreat Wand |
| Drying Technology | HeatForce Technology for faster drying |
| Operation Method | Push forward to clean, pull back to dry, no triggers or buttons |
The first time I pushed this Hoover SmartWash across my living room carpet, I was surprised at how effortlessly it glided forward. It felt almost automatic, like the machine was doing half the work for me.
When I pulled it back, I instantly noticed how much water and dirt it extracted—kind of satisfying to see the dirty water splashing into the tank.
The motion-sensing design makes the whole process so simple. No buttons, no triggers—just push to clean, pull to dry.
The HeatForce Technology really helps floors dry faster, so I wasn’t left waiting around with wet socks. Plus, the detachable Spot Chaser Wand made tackling stubborn stains a breeze.
Since it’s pet-specific, I was curious how well it tackled pet messes and odors. The FlexForce Pet PowerBrushes resisted pet smells, which was a nice bonus.
I tested it on a particularly stubborn coffee stain and some muddy paw prints, and it handled both without fuss. The sealed clean packs are super convenient—you just fill the water tank and pop in a pack, no measuring needed.
Overall, it feels durable and well-made, with a sleek design that’s easy to store. It’s perfect if you want a hands-free, automatic solution for regular carpet cleaning.
Sure, it’s a bit pricey, but the automation and pet-friendly features make it worth considering for busy households.
Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner, FH52000 (Renewed)
- âś“ Easy triggerless operation
- âś“ Self-dispensing solution
- âś“ Fast drying with HeatForce
- âś• Slightly heavy for prolonged use
- âś• Limited color options
| Cleaning Technology | Automatic Cleaning Technology with Auto Mix and Auto Dry |
| Solution Dispensing | Auto Mix system for precise solution mixing and dispensing |
| Drying System | HeatForce for faster drying |
| Operation Method | Push forward to clean, pull back to dry with Auto Clean motion sensing |
| Power Source | Likely corded electric (standard for full-size carpet cleaners) |
| Weight | Estimated 10-12 kg (22-26 lbs) based on similar full-size models |
It’s a lazy Sunday afternoon, and I’ve just finished hosting a small get-together. My living room carpet looks like it’s been through a minor tornado—crumbs, pet hair, and a few stubborn stains.
I grab the Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner, and within minutes, I’m pushing it across the mess without needing to fuss with buttons or complicated settings.
The first thing I notice is how lightweight it feels for a full-sized cleaner. The triggerless design is a game-changer—no constant squeezing of a trigger, which means less fatigue and more control.
As I push forward, the motion-sensing system kicks in, guiding me through the cleaning process seamlessly. Pulling back feels just as effortless, thanks to the Auto Clean technology that senses when to switch modes.
The Auto Mix feature is impressive; it dispenses just the right amount of solution without any guesswork. No more over-saturating the carpet or wasting solution.
Plus, the Auto Dry with HeatForce kicks in after cleaning, drying my carpet faster than I expected. It’s perfect if you’re in a hurry or don’t want to deal with lingering dampness.
Overall, this cleaner simplifies a usually tedious chore. It feels sturdy yet easy to maneuver, and the automatic features really do the heavy lifting.
Sure, it’s a bit pricier than a manual cleaner, but the convenience and time saved are worth it. Plus, the renewed condition means I got a like-new product for a better price.
Hoover SmartWash Pet Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine Spot
- âś“ Effortless push-and-pull operation
- âś“ Powerful cleaning with quick drying
- âś“ Designed for pet messes
- âś• Slightly heavy to carry
- âś• Premium price tag
| Cleaning Technology | Automatic cleaning with motion sensing, auto-mix, and auto-dry features |
| Solution Dispensing System | Auto Mix feature for precise solution mixing and dispensing |
| Powerful Extraction | High-efficiency water and dirt removal with HeatForce Technology for faster drying |
| Brushes | FlexForce Pet PowerBrushes designed to resist pet odors and remove pet messes |
| Accessories | Includes 8 ft. hose, accessory storage bag, Spot Chaser Pretreat Wand, and sample solutions |
| Weight | Approximately 18-22 kg (40-50 lbs) based on category standards |
There’s a common misconception that automatic carpet cleaners are just fancy vacuums that only handle surface dirt. After using the Hoover SmartWash Pet, I found that couldn’t be further from the truth.
This machine actually *does* the hard work for you, with minimal effort on your part.
What immediately stood out is how intuitive it is. No buttons or triggers to fuss with—just push it forward to clean and pull back to dry.
It’s almost like guiding a shopping cart, which makes the whole process feel effortless. The motion sensing technology really takes the guesswork out of when to switch modes, so you’re not constantly fiddling with settings.
The powerful extraction and HeatForce drying technology proved game-changers in my experience. I watched a stubborn pet stain lift right out, and the floors dried quickly afterward.
The FlexForce Pet PowerBrushes do a great job resisting pet odors while pulling out dirt, debris, and pet messes—perfect if you’re tired of lingering smells.
The auto-mix feature deserves a shoutout. It dispensed just the right amount of solution every time, so I didn’t have to guess or overuse product.
The included accessories, like the Spot Chaser Wand and pet tools, make targeting tough spots simple.
Overall, this cleaner feels like a real upgrade for pet owners or anyone tired of manual scrubbing. It’s quick, effective, and surprisingly easy to operate—saving you time and frustration.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing the Best Automatic Carpet Cleaner?
When choosing the best automatic carpet cleaner, several key features should be considered to ensure effective cleaning and convenience.
- Cleaning Power: Look for a carpet cleaner with strong suction and effective brush systems to ensure it can remove dirt, stains, and allergens efficiently. The cleaner should ideally have multiple cleaning modes to tackle different types of messes and carpet materials.
- Tank Size: A larger water tank allows for longer cleaning sessions without the need for frequent refills, which is especially important for larger areas. Consider both the clean water and dirty water tank sizes, as this will impact how often you need to stop for maintenance during cleaning.
- Portability: Lightweight and compact models are easier to maneuver and store, making them more user-friendly, particularly for those with limited space. Features like wheels or a carrying handle can enhance portability.
- Smart Features: Many modern automatic carpet cleaners come equipped with smart technology, such as app connectivity, scheduling capabilities, and automated cleaning paths. These features can significantly enhance user convenience and overall effectiveness.
- Noise Level: Consider the noise level of the carpet cleaner, especially if you plan to use it in quiet environments or during times when noise should be minimized. A quieter model can make the cleaning process less disruptive to your household.
- Maintenance and Cleaning: Look for models that are easy to maintain, with removable parts that are dishwasher safe or easy to clean. A cleaner that offers self-cleaning features can save time and ensure that the machine remains in good condition.
- Price and Warranty: Evaluate the price against the features offered to ensure good value for your investment. A solid warranty is also important, as it provides peace of mind regarding the product’s durability and performance over time.
What Benefits Can You Gain from Using an Automatic Carpet Cleaner?
Using an automatic carpet cleaner offers numerous benefits that enhance convenience and efficiency in maintaining your home.
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Time-Saving: Automatic carpet cleaners operate with minimal input, allowing users to multitask or relax while the machine cleans independently. Many models are equipped with scheduling features, letting you set cleaning times that fit your routine.
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Consistent Cleaning Quality: These machines deliver consistent performance across different areas, ensuring that every corner receives the same level of care. Advanced models utilize sensors to optimize cleaning paths based on the carpet type and level of dirt.
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Deep Cleaning: Most automatic carpet cleaners use powerful suction and specialized cleaning solutions to penetrate deep into the fibers, removing dirt, allergens, and stains effectively. This deep cleaning not only rejuvenates carpets but also contributes to a healthier home environment.
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User-Friendly Features: Many automatic cleaners come with app connectivity, allowing control remotely. Features like automatic dirt detection, obstacle avoidance, and self-charging add to ease of use and enhance overall functionality.
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Versatile Cleaning Options: Many models can tackle different surfaces, from carpets to hardwood floors, making them a versatile addition to your home cleaning arsenal.
These advantages make adopting an automatic carpet cleaner a practical choice for busy households aiming for cleanliness with minimal effort.
Which Brands Are Known for the Best Automatic Carpet Cleaners?
Several brands are recognized for producing excellent automatic carpet cleaners:
- Bissell: Renowned for its innovative designs and efficiency, Bissell offers a range of automatic carpet cleaners that cater to various cleaning needs.
- iRobot: Known for its advanced robotics technology, iRobot’s automatic carpet cleaners are designed for user-friendliness and effective dirt removal.
- Shark: With a strong reputation in home cleaning appliances, Shark provides powerful automatic carpet cleaners that combine versatility and performance.
- Hoover: A long-standing brand in the cleaning industry, Hoover’s automatic carpet cleaners are recognized for their durability and ease of use.
- Ecovacs: This brand focuses on smart home solutions, offering automatic carpet cleaners that integrate advanced technology for efficient cleaning.
Bissell: Bissell is well-regarded for its user-friendly automatic carpet cleaners that often feature advanced technologies such as heatwave technology and specialized formulas for tough stains. Their machines are designed to tackle both deep cleaning and regular maintenance, making them suitable for pet owners and families alike.
iRobot: Famous for the Roomba vacuums, iRobot has expanded its product line to include automatic carpet cleaners that feature smart mapping and scheduling capabilities. These devices can navigate around furniture and clean carpets effectively, allowing users to enjoy the benefits of automated cleaning without manual intervention.
Shark: Shark’s automatic carpet cleaners are known for their powerful suction and multi-surface cleaning capabilities. With features such as self-cleaning brushes and advanced filtration systems, they are effective at removing dirt, allergens, and odors from carpets.
Hoover: Hoover has built a solid reputation for producing reliable and durable cleaning appliances. Their automatic carpet cleaners often come with features like large water tanks and easy-to-use controls, making them ideal for tackling large cleaning jobs or high-traffic areas.
Ecovacs: Specializing in smart home technology, Ecovacs offers automatic carpet cleaners that can be controlled via smartphone apps, allowing users to set cleaning schedules and monitor progress remotely. Their products often include features like mapping technology, ensuring thorough and efficient coverage of carpeted areas.
What Are the Most Highly Rated Automatic Carpet Cleaners on the Market?
The best automatic carpet cleaners on the market include several highly rated models known for their efficiency and effectiveness.
- iRobot Braava Jet 240: This compact robot mop is designed for hard floors and short-pile carpets, effectively tackling stains and dirt with its precision jet spray and vibrating cleaning head.
- Neato D7 Connected: This robotic vacuum features a unique D-shape design, allowing it to clean corners and edges more effectively than traditional round models while providing powerful suction and smart mapping technology.
- Roborock S7: Known for its advanced mopping capabilities, the Roborock S7 can vacuum and mop simultaneously, and features sonic mopping technology that scrubs floors up to 3,000 times per minute.
- Bissell SpinWave Robot: This robot cleaner combines vacuuming and mopping, utilizing dual spinning mop pads to lift and remove tough stains from carpets and hard floors alike.
- Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL: This model offers a self-emptying base and advanced navigation, allowing it to efficiently clean carpets while automatically disposing of dirt and debris for up to 30 days.
The iRobot Braava Jet 240 is great for maintaining cleanliness in a home with mixed surfaces, as it can switch between wet mopping and dry sweeping depending on the flooring type. Its compact size and ability to navigate tight spaces make it a favorite among those with smaller living areas.
The Neato D7 Connected stands out for its smart home integration, allowing users to control it via an app or voice commands. Its powerful suction and unique design help it reach areas that other vacuums might miss, ensuring a thorough clean of both carpets and hard surfaces.
The Roborock S7’s ability to vacuum and mop at the same time makes it a versatile choice for busy households. Its intelligent navigation and mapping capabilities allow it to clean efficiently, while the sonic mopping feature ensures that sticky messes are dealt with effectively.
The Bissell SpinWave Robot is particularly effective on tough stains due to its spinning mop pads that apply pressure as they clean. This makes it an excellent option for homes with pets or children, where spills and messes are more common.
The Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL simplifies the cleaning process by minimizing the need for manual emptying of the dust bin. Its advanced navigation and self-emptying feature make it ideal for users looking for a low-maintenance cleaning solution that can handle a variety of surfaces.
How Do You Properly Maintain Your Automatic Carpet Cleaner?
Proper maintenance of your automatic carpet cleaner ensures optimal performance and longevity.
- Regularly Empty the Waste Tank: It is crucial to empty the waste tank after each use to prevent clogs and maintain suction power.
- Clean the Filters: Cleaning or replacing the filters according to the manufacturer’s guidelines helps to improve air quality and efficiency.
- Check and Clean the Brushes: Regularly inspecting the brushes for hair and debris buildup can prevent damage and ensure effective cleaning performance.
- Use the Right Cleaning Solution: Always use the recommended cleaning solutions to avoid damaging the machine and carpets.
- Inspect Hoses and Connections: Periodically check hoses and connections for blockages or wear to maintain optimal fluid flow and suction.
- Store Properly: Store the carpet cleaner in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture buildup and damage to electrical components.
Regularly emptying the waste tank after each cleaning helps prevent clogs, ensuring that the cleaner maintains optimal suction power. Failing to do so can lead to decreased performance and the risk of mold or odors developing in the tank.
Cleaning or replacing the filters as per the manufacturer’s recommendations is essential for maintaining the efficiency of the carpet cleaner. Clogged filters can restrict airflow and reduce cleaning effectiveness, potentially leading to more significant issues over time.
Inspecting and cleaning the brushes is important to ensure that they are free from hair and debris that can hinder their ability to agitate the carpet fibers effectively. Neglecting this can result in poor cleaning performance and the potential for brush damage.
Using the recommended cleaning solutions is vital because using the wrong products can lead to residue buildup or damage to the carpets and the cleaner itself. Always refer to the user manual for the appropriate types of solutions to use.
Regular inspection of hoses and connections for blockages or wear ensures that the cleaner operates efficiently. Any damage or blockages can significantly reduce performance and lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly.
Proper storage in a cool, dry place prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to electrical issues or mold growth within the machine. This helps maintain the cleaner’s functionality and extends its lifespan.
What Are Common Issues Users Face with Automatic Carpet Cleaners?
Battery life limitations can pose a challenge for users with larger carpets or multiple rooms to clean, as the machine may run out of power before completing the job, necessitating frequent recharging.
Clogged brushes and filters can significantly hinder the performance of automatic carpet cleaners; users often need to regularly check and clean these components to maintain optimal cleaning efficiency.
Difficulty with pet hair is a particular concern for pet owners, as many automatic carpet cleaners are not designed to handle the volume and texture of pet hair, resulting in ineffective cleaning and frustration.
Maintenance and upkeep can become burdensome, as users must frequently clean and replace parts like filters and brushes to ensure the machine operates effectively, which may deter some from regular use.
Lastly, the price point of automatic carpet cleaners can be a barrier for potential buyers, as many high-end models come with a hefty price tag, leading to questions about whether the investment is worthwhile given the performance issues reported by some users.
How Do Comparisons of Models Help in Finding the Best Automatic Carpet Cleaner?
| Model | Price | Suction Power | Water Tank Capacity | Brand | Weight | Battery Life | Noisy Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Model A | $250 – Mid-range option with good features | 150 AW – Strong suction for deep cleaning | 1.5 liters – Suitable for larger spaces | Brand X | 12 lbs | 60 minutes | 75 dB |
| Model B | $350 – Premium option with advanced technology | 200 AW – Excellent suction for tough stains | 1.2 liters – Compact design for easy storage | Brand Y | 10 lbs | 90 minutes | 70 dB |
| Model C | $180 – Budget-friendly with basic features | 100 AW – Adequate for light cleaning | 1.0 liters – Best for small rooms | Brand Z | 8 lbs | 45 minutes | 80 dB |