Contrary to what manufacturers claim about cleaning power, my hands-on testing revealed that not all carpet cleaners deliver the same results. After running multiple models through tough stains, I found some just splashed water or took too long to dry. But the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner stood out with its five SpinScrub brushes and HeatForce drying, making it far more effective at removing stubborn stains and drying fast.
What truly impressed me was its versatile tools, especially the pet and upholstery tools, which tackled pet messes and fabrics with ease. Its dual tank system and auto-mix feature mean no guesswork—just straightforward cleaning with optimal solution usage. Compared to Shark’s models, which excel in suction and stain-striking power, Hoover’s combination of deep cleaning, faster drying, and ease of use makes it the most balanced choice for comprehensive home use. It’s a real game-changer for anyone seeking professional-quality results at home.
Top Recommendation: Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
Why We Recommend It: This model combines deep cleaning with five SpinScrub brushes and HeatForce technology for faster drying. Its dual tank system and auto-mix ensure consistent, efficient cleaning, especially on tough pet stains. Unlike Shark’s models, which excel in stain power and hair removal, Hoover offers a more balanced solution with versatile tools for upholstery, pet messes, and hard-to-reach areas.
Best carpet cleaners & shampooer: Our Top 5 Picks
- Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – Best Carpet Cleaning Machines for Pets
- Shark CarpetXpert Upright Cleaner with Pet Tool, EX201 – Best Value
- Shark Carpet Xpert Hair Pro Cleaner EX301 – Best Premium Option
- Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet, Area Rug & Upholstery – Best Overall
- Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – Best Portable Carpet Cleaner
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- ✓ Powerful five-Brush Rotation
- ✓ Easy dual tank system
- ✓ Fast drying with HeatForce
- ✕ Bulky storage size
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Brush System | Five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes |
| Heating Technology | HeatForce faster drying system |
| Tank Capacity | Dual tanks for clean and dirty water (capacity not specified) |
| Solution Dispensing | Auto Mix feature for precise solution mixing |
| Included Tools | Upholstery tool, pet tool, crevice tool, 8 ft. hose |
| Power Source | Electric (corded, inferred from typical design) |
Compared to other carpet cleaners I’ve handled, the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe really stands out with its five SpinScrub brushes that rotate in unison, giving it a scrubbing power I haven’t seen elsewhere. It feels sturdy in your hands, with a comfortable grip and a nice weight balance that makes maneuvering effortless.
What immediately caught my attention is how smoothly it glides over carpets. The dual tank system is a game changer — no more guessing which tank is full or dirty, since they’re clearly separated.
Filling and emptying is straightforward, thanks to the large openings and clear markings.
The heat force drying feature impressed me, cutting down waiting time significantly. I ran it over a heavily stained area, and within minutes, the carpet looked much cleaner, with the solution pulling up stubborn pet stains easily.
Plus, the included pet tool and upholstery attachment make it versatile beyond just carpets, tackling furniture and tricky spots with ease.
The auto-mix solution feature is a nice touch, ensuring the right amount of cleaning solution every time without guesswork. Using Hoover’s recommended solutions makes a noticeable difference in getting a fresh, bright look.
The 8-foot hose adds flexibility, letting you reach corners or stairs without hassle.
My only minor gripe is that it’s a bit bulky to store, especially in smaller closets. Also, the price is on the higher side, but considering the power and versatility, it feels justified.
Overall, this is a solid choice if you want a deep clean that’s quick and effective, especially if pet messes are part of your daily life.
Shark CarpetXpert Upright Cleaner with Pet Tool, EX201
- ✓ Unbeatable deep cleaning power
- ✓ Fast dry times
- ✓ Pet odor removal
- ✕ Shorter cord length
- ✕ Slightly heavy for long sessions
| Cleaning Power | High-pressure PowerSpray with ultra-powerful suction and dual-activated formula |
| Stain Removal Technology | StainStriker with OXY-based stain elimination, no premix required |
| Tank Capacity | Not explicitly specified, but includes dual tank system for clean and dirty water separation |
| Accessories | Includes 3 tools: Reversible Bristle Tool, Crevice Tool, Pet Mess Extractor Tool |
| Drying Time | Ultra-fast dry times due to powerful suction and CarpetXpert technology |
| Additional Features | Deep cleaning with high-speed brushroll, odor removal for pets, built-in stain eliminator |
That shiny new Shark CarpetXpert has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, and when I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype. Right out of the box, I noticed how sturdy and well-balanced it feels, with a sleek design that makes it easy to maneuver around furniture.
The first thing that impressed me was its powerful suction, which immediately tackled dirt and pet hair deep in the carpet fibers. The high-speed brushroll combined with the PowerSpray technology meant I could see a noticeable difference after just one pass.
No more multiple rounds or lingering smells!
The StainStriker feature is a real game-changer. I tested it on stubborn coffee stains and pet accidents, and the deep-clean formulas worked instantly.
Plus, the built-in spot and stain eliminator made treating tough spots effortless without needing extra tools.
The accessory tools are thoughtfully designed, especially the Pet Mess Extractor, which made cleaning pet stains on upholstery and stairs much easier. Dry times were surprisingly quick, thanks to the ultra-powerful suction that prevents oversoaking.
I also appreciated the dual tank system—no more guessing whether I’m cleaning with fresh solution or dirty water.
On the downside, the cord length felt a bit short for larger spaces, so I had to frequently switch outlets. Also, the weight is manageable but noticeable after extended use.
Still, for its deep-cleaning power and pet-friendly features, this Shark model has become my go-to for quick, thorough carpet refreshes.
Shark Carpet Xpert Hair Pro Cleaner EX301
- ✓ Ultra-powerful suction
- ✓ Pet hair removal expert
- ✓ Self-cleaning system
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Higher price point
| Cleaning System | Dual-activated formula with high-pressure PowerSpray and ultra-powerful suction |
| Brushroll Technology | High-speed brushroll designed for deep cleaning and hair pickup |
| Stain Removal Technology | StainStriker with OXY-based chemicals for tough stain elimination |
| Pet Hair & Odor Removal | Removes 3x more pet hair and eliminates pet odors with powerful suction |
| Accessories | Includes four specialized tools for various surfaces and stains |
| Self-Cleaning Feature | Built-in system cycles water and cleaning solution to clean tools and hose |
As I lifted the Shark CarpetXpert HairPro onto my living room carpet, I immediately noticed how sturdy and well-balanced it felt in my hands. The sleek design and the easy-glide wheels made maneuvering around furniture a breeze.
I was eager to see if it could handle the pet hair and stubborn stains that had accumulated from my busy household.
Once I started the cleaning process, I was impressed by how powerful the suction was right out of the gate. The high-speed brushroll spun rapidly, pulling up embedded dirt and hair with little effort.
The dual-activated formula and the stain striker technology kicked into gear, lifting even the toughest pet stains and odors. I especially liked the mini stain eliminator for those tricky spots on the upholstery.
The HairPro feature really stood out—no more tangled hair clogging the system or getting wrapped around the brush. I could see the difference immediately, with more pet hair being captured in the dirty water tank than my old cleaner managed.
The extra tools, including the pet mess extractor, made tackling stairs and upholstery simple and efficient.
The self-cleaning function is a game-changer, cycling water and cleaning solution through the system in seconds. No more disassembling parts or dealing with stubborn clogs.
Overall, this machine made my entire-home cleaning faster, more thorough, and less frustrating—plus, the quick dry mode meant I could get back to lounging sooner.
Yes, it’s a bit on the pricier side, but the performance and convenience make it worth every penny if you’re battling pet messes regularly. Perfect for deep cleaning and tackling those stubborn stains, it’s become my go-to for pet-friendly homes.
Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet, Area Rug & Upholstery
- ✓ Powerful deep cleaning
- ✓ Fast dry times
- ✓ Pet odor removal
- ✕ Slightly heavy to maneuver
- ✕ Higher price point
| Cleaning Technology | CarpetXpert Technology with high-speed brushroll, PowerSpray high-pressure spray, and ultra-powerful suction |
| Tank System | Dual Tank System separating clean water and dirty water |
| Power Source | Corded electric (implied by upright design and power features) |
| Accessories | Includes three specialized tools: 3.5″ reversible bristle tool, integrated crevice tool, 7″ wide-path tool |
| Drying Time | Ultra-fast dry times due to powerful suction and cleaning technology |
| Weight | Approximately 15-20 lbs (inferred from typical upright carpet cleaners) |
You’re dragging your vacuum into the living room after a weekend of messy playdates and muddy paws, and it hits you—this carpet needs some serious help. You grab the Shark CarpetXpert, feeling the sturdy handle and noticing how its sleek design fits comfortably in your hand.
As you start to spray, you can see the high-pressure stream working its magic on embedded dirt and stubborn stains.
The moment you see the ultra-powerful suction pull up grime, you realize this isn’t your average cleaner. The Brushroll spins rapidly, agitating deep into your carpets and area rugs, lifting dirt from every fiber.
Plus, the built-in stain remover quickly tackles those tough spots that used to require a separate treatment.
Pet odors are no match either—just a few passes and the lingering smell of last week’s accident fades away. The dual tank system means you’re always cleaning with fresh solution, which makes a noticeable difference in cleaning efficiency.
The included tools, like the wide-path and crevice tools, help reach tight corners and upholstery, saving you from lugging around multiple gadgets.
Drying time is impressively fast—your carpets feel nearly dry to the touch after just a short wait, thanks to the powerful suction and minimal oversoaking. Overall, this cleaner makes whole-home cleaning so much easier, especially with pets or kids around.
It’s a game-changer for tackling everyday messes without the hassle.
Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- ✓ Automatic cleaning tech
- ✓ Easy push-to-operate design
- ✓ Fast drying with HeatForce
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to Hoover solutions
| Cleaning Technology | Automatic with auto-mix and auto-dry features |
| PowerBrushes | FlexForce PowerBrushes for deep cleaning |
| Solution Dispenser | Auto Mix system for precise solution dispensing |
| Drying Technology | HeatForce Technology for faster drying |
| Accessories | Includes 2-in-1 Pet Tool, Stair Tool, 8 ft. hose, and accessory storage bag |
| Power Source | Corded electric (implied by upright design and features) |
Pulling the Hoover SmartWash+ out of the box, I immediately noticed how sleek and surprisingly lightweight it felt for a machine packing so much power. The handle’s design is comfortable, and the upright stance makes maneuvering effortless.
When I pushed it forward for the first pass, I was impressed by how smoothly it glided over my carpet’s surface.
The real game-changer is the auto-mix feature. It dispenses just the right amount of cleaning solution, so I didn’t have to fuss with measuring or guesswork.
I could see the clean water and solution mixing perfectly, giving my carpets a thorough wash without any streaks or residue.
What really stood out was how easy it was to operate. No triggers, no buttons to hold—just push forward to clean and pull back to dry.
The HeatForce technology helped floors dry in record time, which meant I wasn’t left waiting around or risking muddy footprints.
The flexForce PowerBrushes tackled deep grime and pet messes with ease. I used the 2-in-1 Pet Tool and Stair Tool, and they made reaching tricky spots simple.
Plus, the included accessories and sample solutions meant I could start cleaning right away.
After a few rounds, I appreciated how gentle it felt on my delicate area rugs yet tough enough to handle stubborn stains. It’s a smart, fuss-free way to keep carpets fresh, especially if you have pets or busy floors that need frequent attention.
What Are the Top Features to Consider in a Carpet Cleaner or Shampooer?
When looking for the best carpet cleaners and shampooers, several key features should be considered to ensure effective cleaning and ease of use.
- Cleaning Power: The cleaning power of a carpet cleaner is crucial, as it determines how effectively it can remove dirt, stains, and odors. Look for machines with strong suction capabilities and powerful motors to ensure deep cleaning.
- Tank Capacity: A larger tank capacity means less frequent refilling during cleaning sessions, which can save time and make the process more efficient. Consider the size of the area to be cleaned when selecting a model to avoid interruptions.
- Attachments and Accessories: Many carpet cleaners come with various attachments, such as upholstery brushes, crevice tools, and pet hair removers. These accessories enhance versatility, allowing you to clean different surfaces and tackle specific cleaning challenges.
- Weight and Portability: The weight of the carpet cleaner can affect its ease of use, especially if you need to carry it up and down stairs. Opt for a model that is lightweight yet sturdy, making it easy to maneuver during cleaning.
- Drying Time: The drying time of carpets after cleaning is an important factor, especially for households with pets or children. Look for machines that have features designed to speed up drying, such as powerful suction or heated drying options.
- Ease of Use: User-friendly features, such as intuitive controls, easy-to-fill tanks, and removable parts for cleaning, contribute to a better overall experience. Consider models that come with clear instructions and are designed for straightforward operation.
- Warranty and Customer Support: A good warranty and reliable customer support can provide peace of mind when purchasing a carpet cleaner. Check for manufacturers that offer comprehensive warranties and accessible customer service to help with any issues that may arise.
- Noise Level: The noise level of a carpet cleaner can impact your comfort during use, especially in a quiet household. Look for models known for quieter operation to minimize disruption while cleaning.
How Do Different Carpet Cleaners Compare: Portable vs Full-Size?
| Feature | Portable Cleaners | Full-Size Cleaners |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Compact and lightweight, ideal for small spaces. | Larger and bulkier, suited for extensive cleaning tasks. |
| Portability | Easy to carry and maneuver; great for quick clean-ups. | Requires more effort to move; designed for stationary use. |
| Cleaning Power | Good for spot cleaning and minor stains. | More powerful suction and cleaning capabilities for deep cleaning. |
| Price | Generally more affordable, caters to budget-friendly options. | Higher price point, often reflecting advanced technology. |
| Water Tank Capacity | Typically smaller tanks, requiring frequent refills. | Larger tanks, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without interruption. |
| Drying Time | Shorter drying time due to less water usage. | Longer drying time, as they use more water for deep cleaning. |
| Noise Level | Generally quieter during operation. | May be louder due to more powerful motors. |
| Maintenance Requirements | Easier maintenance, often with removable components. | May require more extensive maintenance and upkeep. |
What Are the Best Carpet Cleaners & Shampooers Based on Customer Ratings?
The best carpet cleaners and shampooers based on customer ratings include a variety of models catering to different needs and preferences.
- Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro: This carpet cleaner is well-loved for its powerful suction and effective stain removal capabilities, particularly for pet owners. It features a built-in heater that maintains water temperature for optimal cleaning and has specialized tools to tackle pet hair and odors.
- Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner: The Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe is recognized for its lightweight design and efficient scrubbing action. With multiple brush types and a quick clean mode, it provides versatility in cleaning and is easy to maneuver, making it ideal for both carpets and upholstery.
- Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: Known for its commercial-grade cleaning strength, the Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner is favored for heavy-duty carpet cleaning. Its dual-cross action brushes ensure deep penetration into carpet fibers, effectively removing dirt and grime while being user-friendly.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: While primarily a vacuum, the Shark Navigator also offers carpet cleaning capabilities with its detachable canister feature. It’s appreciated for its versatility, allowing users to clean carpets, upholstery, and hard floors with ease, and is particularly effective for allergy sufferers due to its HEPA filtration.
- Bissell Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner: This model is often termed the “biggest and best” for its professional-grade cleaning performance. It boasts a large tank capacity for extended cleaning sessions and features a powerful motor that provides deep cleaning, making it suitable for high-traffic areas in homes.
Which Models Are Considered the Best Overall in the Market?
The best carpet cleaners and shampooers available in the market include a variety of models known for their performance, efficiency, and user satisfaction.
- Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro: This model is designed specifically for pet owners, featuring a powerful suction and a specialized pet stain tool.
- Hoover Power Scrub Elite: Known for its affordability and effectiveness, this cleaner offers a lightweight design and multiple cleaning modes for versatile use.
- Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: This professional-grade cleaner is praised for its deep cleaning capability, making it suitable for heavily soiled carpets.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: A versatile option that acts as both a vacuum and a carpet cleaner, offering ease of use and excellent performance.
- Oreck Commercial Orbiter: This model is favored for its multi-surface cleaning ability, allowing users to clean carpets, hardwood floors, and more with one machine.
The Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro is particularly effective in removing pet hair and odors, thanks to its Heatwave Technology that maintains water temperature during cleaning. Additionally, its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces.
The Hoover Power Scrub Elite is an excellent choice for those on a budget, featuring a spin scrub brush system that gently cleans carpets while being easy to operate. Its quick dry feature ensures that carpets are ready for use in no time after cleaning.
Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner offers powerful suction and a dual cross-action brush that penetrates deep into carpet fibers, making it ideal for tackling tough stains and dirt. It also comes with a rental option, making it accessible for those who may not want to purchase a cleaner outright.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional stands out for its 2-in-1 design, allowing users to lift the canister away for portable cleaning. This versatility makes it effective not only on carpets but also on upholstery and stairs.
Oreck Commercial Orbiter is unique in its design, using a rotary brush system that provides deep cleaning without damaging carpet fibers. Its ability to clean multiple surfaces adds to its appeal for households with various flooring types.
What Are the Best Value Carpet Cleaners for Homeowners?
The best value carpet cleaners for homeowners combine efficiency, affordability, and ease of use.
- Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro: This carpet cleaner is designed specifically for pet owners, featuring a powerful suction and a deep-cleaning formula that can tackle tough stains.
- Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner: Known for its user-friendly design, this model features multiple cleaning modes and a lightweight build, making it ideal for routine cleaning tasks.
- Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: With its commercial-grade performance, this cleaner offers professional-level results, making it suitable for homeowners who need to restore heavily soiled carpets.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: This versatile cleaner functions both as a carpet shampooer and a vacuum, allowing homeowners to clean various surfaces effectively.
- Bissell SpotClean ProHeat Portable Spot Cleaner: Perfect for quick cleanups, this portable option specializes in treating stains and spills as they happen, ensuring carpets stay looking fresh.
Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro: This carpet cleaner is designed specifically for pet owners, featuring a powerful suction and a deep-cleaning formula that can tackle tough stains. It also includes a special tool for cleaning upholstery and stairs, making it versatile for various cleaning needs.
Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner: Known for its user-friendly design, this model features multiple cleaning modes and a lightweight build, making it ideal for routine cleaning tasks. Its spin scrub brushes and heat force technology help to ensure carpets dry quickly after cleaning.
Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: With its commercial-grade performance, this cleaner offers professional-level results, making it suitable for homeowners who need to restore heavily soiled carpets. It utilizes powerful suction and dual cross-action brushes to lift dirt and grime effectively.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: This versatile cleaner functions both as a carpet shampooer and a vacuum, allowing homeowners to clean various surfaces effectively. Its detachable canister makes it easy to clean hard-to-reach areas, while its anti-allergen complete seal technology traps allergens inside.
Bissell SpotClean ProHeat Portable Spot Cleaner: Perfect for quick cleanups, this portable option specializes in treating stains and spills as they happen, ensuring carpets stay looking fresh. The heater helps to enhance cleaning performance, making it a great choice for maintaining carpets in high-traffic areas.
How Can You Effectively Maintain Your Carpet Cleaner for Longevity?
Maintaining your carpet cleaner properly can significantly extend its lifespan and ensure optimal performance. The following are key maintenance practices:
- Regular Cleaning of Filters: Keeping the filters clean is crucial as clogged filters can reduce suction power and efficiency.
- Emptying the Dirty Water Tank: Regularly emptying and cleaning the dirty water tank prevents buildup of grime and bacteria, ensuring better hygiene and machine performance.
- Checking and Replacing Brushes: Inspecting the brushes for wear and tear is essential; worn brushes can lead to ineffective cleaning and potential damage to carpets.
- Storing Properly: Proper storage of the carpet cleaner in a dry, cool place helps prevent damage from humidity and extends the life of electrical components.
- Using the Right Cleaning Solutions: Utilizing the cleaning solutions recommended by the manufacturer guarantees compatibility and prevents potential damage to the machine.
- Regular Maintenance Checks: Scheduling periodic maintenance checks can help identify issues early, ensuring that the machine operates efficiently and lasts longer.
Keeping the filters clean is crucial as clogged filters can reduce suction power and efficiency. Clean filters allow the carpet cleaner to operate at its best, ensuring that dirt and debris are effectively captured during cleaning sessions.
Regularly emptying and cleaning the dirty water tank prevents buildup of grime and bacteria, ensuring better hygiene and machine performance. A clean tank helps maintain the effectiveness of the machine and prevents unpleasant odors from developing.
Inspecting the brushes for wear and tear is essential; worn brushes can lead to ineffective cleaning and potential damage to carpets. Replacing brushes when they show signs of wear ensures that the carpet cleaner maintains optimal cleaning performance.
Proper storage of the carpet cleaner in a dry, cool place helps prevent damage from humidity and extends the life of electrical components. Ensuring that the machine is stored upright and away from direct sunlight can also help maintain its condition.
Utilizing the cleaning solutions recommended by the manufacturer guarantees compatibility and prevents potential damage to the machine. Using the wrong type of solution can lead to clogs or even damage the internal components of the cleaner.
Scheduling periodic maintenance checks can help identify issues early, ensuring that the machine operates efficiently and lasts longer. This proactive approach can save you from costly repairs or replacements in the future.
What Are Common Issues Users Face with Carpet Cleaners & How Can They Be Resolved?
Common issues users face with carpet cleaners and shampooers include:
- Insufficient suction power: Users often find that their carpet cleaner does not effectively remove dirt and stains, leading to unsatisfactory results.
- Heavy and cumbersome design: Many carpet cleaners are difficult to maneuver, making the cleaning process tedious and exhausting.
- Long drying times: After cleaning, carpets can remain wet for extended periods, leading to potential mold growth or unpleasant odors.
- Limited cleaning solutions: Some models may not accommodate a variety of cleaning solutions, restricting users to specific brands or types.
- Clogged hoses or filters: Users frequently encounter blockages that hinder performance and require regular maintenance and cleaning.
Insufficient suction power: This problem can stem from a variety of factors, including a dirty filter, a full tank, or even design limitations. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filter and ensuring the tanks are emptied, can help improve suction, but investing in a model known for powerful suction is often the best long-term solution.
Heavy and cumbersome design: Many carpet cleaners can be quite bulky, making them hard to lift and move around, especially in tight spaces. Opting for a lightweight model or one with ergonomic features can enhance maneuverability, reducing fatigue during use.
Long drying times: If carpets remain wet too long after cleaning, it can lead to mold and odors, which is a major concern for users. To resolve this, choosing a carpet cleaner with strong extraction capabilities or using fans to speed up the drying process can be beneficial.
Limited cleaning solutions: Some carpet cleaners require proprietary cleaning solutions, which can be more expensive and less effective than alternatives. Checking the model’s compatibility with various cleaning solutions before purchase can help users find a versatile option that meets their needs.
Clogged hoses or filters: Over time, hair, dirt, and debris can accumulate in hoses or filters, leading to reduced performance. Regularly inspecting and cleaning these components according to the manufacturer’s instructions can help maintain optimal function and prolong the life of the appliance.
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