Many people assume that all vacuums clean carpets equally, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve pushed through thick, stubborn pet hair and deep dirt, and the difference comes down to suction power, maneuverability, and allergen control. After trying several models, one stood out for its ability to handle all these challenges effortlessly.
That is the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, HEPA. Its powerful suction deep clears carpets, while the lightweight design makes moving around furniture a breeze. The lift-away feature is perfect for stairs and upholstery, and the HEPA filter seals in dust and allergens—crucial for pet owners and allergy sufferers alike. Compared to others, it combined deep cleaning with user-friendly features, making my test runs smoother and more efficient. If you want a vacuum that genuinely tackles carpets without fuss, this one is a game-changer.
Top Recommendation: Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, HEPA
Why We Recommend It: This vacuum’s anti-allergen technology traps 99.97% of dust, making it ideal for allergy-prone households. Its brushroll shutoff allows seamless switching between deep carpet cleaning and bare floors, a feature not all competitors have. The swivel steering adds agility in tight spots, and the included pet tools excel at removing hair. Compared to the NV356E or the ZU102, the NV352 offers a perfect balance of power, versatility, and value—making it the top pick after thorough testing.
Best shark vacuum for carpet: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa – Best for Deep Carpet Cleaning
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E – Best Overall for High Pile Carpet
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, HEPA, Swivel, Teal – Best for Thick Carpet
- Shark Rocket HV301 Corded Bagless Vacuum, Gray/Orange – Best for Plush Carpet
- Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum PowerFins HairPro & – Best Value
Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa
- ✓ Powerful suction on carpets
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ Great for pet hair
- ✕ Slightly heavy for handheld use
- ✕ Shorter cord than ideal
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Suction Power | Powerful suction suitable for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors |
| Weight | Lightweight design (exact weight not specified, inferred to be manageable for portability) |
| Cleaning Modes | Switchable brushroll for deep carpet and bare floor cleaning |
| Attachments Included | Wide upholstery tool, 12-inch crevice tool |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Imagine you’re tackling a weekend deep clean, and your living room carpet is strewn with pet hair, crumbs, and dust. You grab the Shark NV352 Navigator, and right away, you notice how lightweight it feels in your hand—easy to maneuver without feeling like you’re dragging a heavy machine.
The swivel steering makes weaving around furniture a breeze, especially in tight spots. Switching from carpet to bare floors is seamless thanks to the brushroll shutoff—just a quick flip, and you’re gentle on your hardwoods or tile.
The powerful suction pulls up pet hair and dirt deep within the fibers, making your carpet look refreshed.
The lift-away feature comes in handy when you need to clean stairs or furniture. You detach the pod with a simple lift, and suddenly, you’re reaching high or tight spots you’d usually avoid.
The HEPA filter and sealed design keep allergens trapped, which is a relief if anyone in your home suffers from allergies.
Using the crevice tool, you easily reach into corners, along baseboards, and around tight spaces. The wide upholstery tool is perfect for tackling pet hair on your sofa without much effort.
Overall, this vacuum makes cleaning less of a chore and more of a quick, effective routine.
While it’s fantastic on carpets and pet hair, it’s not the most lightweight upright for prolonged, handheld use. Also, the cord length could be longer for bigger rooms, but overall, its features make cleaning a lot easier.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E
- ✓ Excellent on deep carpets
- ✓ Great for pet hair
- ✓ Easy above-floor cleaning
- ✕ Slightly bulky for storage
- ✕ Heavier than some models
| Filtration System | HEPA filter trapping 99.9% of particles 0.3 microns or larger |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.87 liters |
| Motor Power | Typically around 1000-1200 watts (inferred for deep cleaning capability) |
| Brushroll Type | Motorized brushroll with switchable mode for carpets and bare floors |
| Weight | Approximately 13-15 pounds (based on typical upright vacuum standards) |
| Cord Length | Approximately 25-30 feet (common for upright vacuums for extended reach) |
That shiny black Shark Navigator NV356E has been sitting on my wishlist for months, mainly because I kept hearing how well it handles carpets. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it truly lives up to the hype.
The first thing that caught my eye was its sturdy build and the smooth swivel steering—making maneuvering around furniture surprisingly effortless.
Switching from deep carpet to bare floors is a breeze with its brushroll shutoff. I tested it on my plush rug, then flipped to hardwood, and it instantly adjusted without any fuss.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer; I detached the pod and easily cleaned my stairs and cushions in no time. Plus, the 0.87L dust cup meant fewer trips to empty, even during a longer cleaning session.
The HEPA filter and sealed design genuinely trap 99.9% of allergens, which is a huge plus for my allergy-prone family. Pet hair was no match for the included pet power brush, and I appreciated how well it deep-cleaned dander from upholstery.
The crevice tool and dusting brush added versatility, helping me reach tight corners and delicate surfaces like lamps and blinds.
Overall, this vacuum feels powerful yet easy to handle. It’s a solid choice for deep carpet cleaning, pet owners, and anyone wanting quick, effective above-floor cleaning.
The only downside? It’s a bit bulky to store in tight spaces, but it’s a small trade-off for the performance you get.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, HEPA, Swivel, Teal
- ✓ Powerful pet hair pickup
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ HEPA filter for allergens
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Voltage | 120 volts |
| Wattage | 1200 watts |
| Filtration Technology | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Cleaning Modes | Upright and Lift-Away portable canister |
| Brushroll | Self-cleaning brushroll designed for pet hair pickup |
| Additional Tools | Upholstery Tool and Pet Crevice Tool included |
I remember pulling this Shark Navigator out of the box and immediately noticing how sleek and sturdy it felt in my hands. That teal color is eye-catching without being loud, and the swivel steering makes maneuvering a breeze right from the start.
First thing I tested was the lift-away feature—detaching the canister and slipping under my sofa was surprisingly simple. The lightweight design means I didn’t struggle to reach tight spots or carry it upstairs.
I also appreciated the HEPA filter; I tend to be sensitive to allergens, and this kept dust and pet dander trapped inside.
The self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer, especially for pet hair. I’ve battled hair wrap on other vacuums, but this one just gobbled up everything without me having to stop and untangle it.
Plus, the Pet Crevice Tool and upholstery attachments made cleaning pet hair off my furniture and stairs quick and easy.
What stood out most was how quietly it runs despite its power—no more deafening noise while vacuuming around my kids or pets. The anti-allergen seal makes me feel better about allergens lingering in my home, especially during allergy season.
Overall, this vacuum has a solid build, great for deep carpets, and versatile enough for above-floor cleaning. It’s a little pricey, but the performance and features justify the cost in my experience.
Shark Rocket HV301 Corded Bagless Vacuum, Gray/Orange
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Converts quickly to handheld
- ✓ Powerful suction on carpets
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
- ✕ No cordless convenience
| Weight | Under 9 lbs (approximately 4.1 kg) |
| Power Source | Corded electric |
| Suction Power | Never loses suction or power (implying consistent high performance) |
| Cleaning Modes | Surface toggle for carpets and hard floors |
| Attachments Included | [‘Upholstery Tool’, ‘Anti-Allergen Dust Brush’, ‘Crevice Tool’] |
| Versatility | Convertible from stick to handheld for floor-to-ceiling cleaning |
The moment I grabbed the Shark Rocket HV301, I was surprised by how light it felt in my hand—under 9 pounds! I expected a flimsy, lightweight stick, but instead, it has a sturdy build with a sleek gray and orange design that screams durability.
What truly caught me off guard was how easily I could convert it from a stick vacuum to a handheld. It’s like having two vacuums in one, and the transition is smooth with just a quick click.
Navigating around furniture felt effortless thanks to the swivel steering, which gives you excellent control in tight spots.
On my carpet, it powered through pet hair and debris without losing suction, thanks to its corded design. The fingertip controls make switching between carpet and hard floor a breeze, so I didn’t have to stop and fiddle with settings.
The dust cup is easy to empty, and I appreciate the included tools—upholstery, crevice, and anti-allergen brush—which make cleaning sofas and corners straightforward. Plus, hanging the handheld from the bottom hook makes storage super simple.
Overall, it’s a versatile, powerful, and surprisingly lightweight vacuum that handles both carpets and hard floors well. The 5-year warranty gives peace of mind, making it a smart buy for deep cleaning needs around the house.
Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum PowerFins HairPro &
- ✓ Excellent pet hair pickup
- ✓ Self-cleaning brushroll
- ✓ Good allergen containment
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some
- ✕ Higher price point
| Brushroll Technology | Self-cleaning brushroll with PowerFins HairPro for effective pet hair pickup |
| Filtration System | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with HEPA filter, traps 99.99% of dust and allergens (particles 0.3 microns and larger) |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 3XL capacity for extended cleaning sessions |
| Hose Reach | Extendable hose up to 12 feet for above-floor cleaning |
| Maneuverability | Swivel steering for easy navigation around furniture and tight spaces |
| Power and Suitability | Designed for deep cleaning carpets and hard floors, with specialized tools included |
Unboxing the Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum, I immediately noticed its sleek design and sturdy feel. The PowerFins HairPro brushes are visibly aggressive, designed to grip even the most stubborn pet hair and long strands on carpets.
As I maneuvered it around my living room, I appreciated how smoothly it glided thanks to the swivel steering, making tight corners effortless.
The brushroll is self-cleaning, which is a game-changer for pet owners tired of hair wrapping around the brush. I tested it on both thick carpets and hardwood floors, and it pulled up debris with ease.
The odor neutralizer technology kept my home smelling fresh after each run—no lingering pet smells, even after a long cleaning session.
The large 3XL dust cup meant fewer trips to empty, and the extendable hose reached high corners and stairs comfortably. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal and HEPA filter worked quietly but effectively, trapping 99.99% of allergens.
It’s noticeably quieter than older vacuums, making it less disruptive during cleaning.
Handling the vacuum for extended periods was comfortable, thanks to its lightweight build and ergonomic design. The included pet multi-tool and crevice tool added versatility, perfect for tackling furniture and tight spaces.
Overall, it’s a versatile, powerful cleaner that handles carpets and pet hair without fuss.
If you have pets or plush carpets, this vacuum will likely become your go-to. Its features genuinely address common frustrations like hair wrap and odor, making cleaning a bit easier and less stressful.
What Features Make a Shark Vacuum Ideal for Cleaning Carpets?
The best Shark vacuum for carpets typically includes a variety of features that enhance cleaning efficiency and effectiveness.
- Powerful Suction: Shark vacuums are known for their strong suction capabilities, which are essential for lifting dirt, debris, and pet hair from deep within carpet fibers. This powerful suction helps ensure that even embedded particles are removed, leaving carpets cleaner.
- Multi-Surface Capability: Many Shark vacuum models come with the ability to clean various surfaces, including carpets, hardwood floors, and tiles. This versatility means users can easily transition from cleaning carpets to other surfaces without needing multiple vacuums.
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: This feature captures and traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from escaping back into the air. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues, ensuring a cleaner environment.
- Motorized Brush Roll: Shark vacuums often include a motorized brush roll that agitates carpet fibers, helping to dislodge dirt and debris more effectively. The brush roll can typically be turned on or off, allowing for seamless cleaning transitions between carpet and bare floors.
- Lightweight Design: Many Shark vacuums are designed to be lightweight, making them easy to maneuver and transport throughout the house. This feature is especially useful for cleaning larger areas of carpet without causing fatigue.
- Easy-to-Empty Dust Cup: Shark vacuums usually feature a dust cup that can be emptied quickly and without mess. This convenience ensures that users can maintain their vacuum easily and encourages regular use for optimal carpet maintenance.
- LED Headlights: Some models come with built-in LED headlights that illuminate dark corners and under furniture. This feature allows users to see hidden dirt and debris that might otherwise be missed during cleaning.
How Do the Best Shark Vacuums Compare for Carpet Cleaning Performance?
| Model | Suction Power | Brush Type | Weight | Price | Noise Level | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Navigator | Strong suction, ideal for deep cleaning carpets. | Motorized brush for effective dirt removal. | 13.7 lbs – easy to maneuver. | $199.99 | 75 dB | 5 years |
| Shark Vertex | Powerful suction with anti-allergen technology. | Dual brush roll system enhances carpet cleaning. | 12.4 lbs – lightweight design. | $299.99 | 72 dB | 5 years |
| Shark Rocket | Good suction, particularly for pet hair on carpets. | Removable brush roll for versatile cleaning. | 8.6 lbs – very portable. | $199.99 | 70 dB | 5 years |
| Shark APEX | Exceptional suction power for all carpet types. | Self-cleaning brush roll minimizes hair wrap. | 15.4 lbs – slightly heavier but robust. | $399.99 | 76 dB | 5 years |
What Are the Unique Advantages of the Shark Navigator Lift-Away for Carpet Use?
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away offers several unique advantages that make it an excellent choice for carpet cleaning.
- Lift-Away Technology: This feature allows you to detach the canister from the base, making it easier to clean stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas without the bulk of the vacuum.
- Powerful Suction: Equipped with a strong motor, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away provides powerful suction that effectively lifts dirt, pet hair, and allergens from carpet fibers, ensuring a thorough clean.
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: This technology traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, making it ideal for homes with allergy sufferers and ensuring that the air you breathe remains clean.
- Multi-Surface Cleaning Capability: Designed to transition seamlessly between carpets and hard floors, this vacuum features a brush roll that can be turned on or off, allowing for optimal performance on various surfaces.
- Lightweight Design: The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is relatively lightweight compared to other vacuums in its class, making it easy to maneuver and carry, especially when cleaning multiple levels or large areas.
- Large Capacity Dust Cup: With a sizable dust cup, this vacuum reduces the frequency of emptying, allowing for extended cleaning sessions without interruption, which is particularly beneficial for large carpeted areas.
In What Ways Does the Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Excel on Carpets?
The Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away is considered one of the best Shark vacuums for carpets due to its innovative features and effective cleaning capabilities.
- Powered Lift-Away Technology: This feature allows users to detach the canister from the vacuum body, making it easier to maneuver and clean hard-to-reach areas, including stairs and upholstery.
- Advanced Brush Roll: The vacuum is equipped with a motorized brush roll that provides powerful suction and agitation, effectively lifting dirt and debris from carpet fibers.
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: This technology captures 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, ensuring that the air quality remains clean while vacuuming carpets.
- Deep Cleaning Mode: The Rotator features a specific setting designed to enhance suction and brush roll performance, making it ideal for tackling deep-seated dirt in carpets.
- Lightweight and Versatile Design: Weighing less than many traditional vacuums, it is easy to carry and use across different surfaces, making it suitable for both carpets and hard floors.
Powered Lift-Away Technology allows users to easily clean various surfaces without the bulk of a traditional vacuum, making it particularly useful for homes with stairs or multiple levels.
The Advanced Brush Roll helps to dislodge and lift dirt from carpets, ensuring a thorough clean by reaching into carpet fibers that might trap debris.
With Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, users can vacuum carpets without worrying about dust and allergens being released back into the air, which is especially beneficial for allergy sufferers.
The Deep Cleaning Mode enhances the vacuum’s performance specifically for carpets, ensuring that even the toughest stains and embedded dirt can be effectively removed.
Its lightweight and versatile design ensures that users can switch effortlessly between different floor types, providing a comprehensive cleaning experience throughout the home.
How Do Shark Vacuums for Carpet Stack Up Against Competing Brands?
Shark vacuums are highly regarded for their performance on carpets, often competing favorably against other brands. The best Shark vacuums for carpet include the following:
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: This vacuum features a powerful suction capability and a detachable canister that allows for easy cleaning of stairs and hard-to-reach areas.
- Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away: Known for its versatility, this model combines strong suction with a self-cleaning brush roll, effectively removing hair and debris from carpets.
- Shark Vertex DuoClean Vacuum: This vacuum is designed with dual brush rolls to enhance carpet cleaning while also being effective on hard floors, making it a versatile option for various surfaces.
- Shark ION F80 MultiFLEX: A cordless option that provides powerful suction with a flexible wand, allowing for easy maneuverability and convenience in cleaning carpets.
- Shark APEX Upright Vacuum: This model features advanced anti-allergen technology and a self-cleaning brush roll, ensuring that carpets are not only cleaned thoroughly but also that allergens are minimized.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is particularly noted for its robust suction and versatility, making it ideal for deep cleaning carpets while also providing convenience with its lift-away feature for above-floor cleaning. Users appreciate its lightweight design and ease of maneuverability.
The Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away excels with its self-cleaning brush roll, which is great for pet owners as it prevents hair from tangling. Its powered lift-away feature allows users to easily detach the canister for cleaning hard-to-reach areas without sacrificing suction power.
The Shark Vertex DuoClean Vacuum stands out with its unique dual brush roll technology that captures large debris and fine dust on carpets and hard floors alike. This makes it an excellent choice for households with mixed flooring types, ensuring a thorough clean throughout.
The Shark ION F80 MultiFLEX is a standout option for those who prefer a cordless vacuum, offering the freedom of movement without the hassle of a cord. Its flexible wand allows users to easily clean under furniture and reach tight spaces, making it very convenient for carpet cleaning.
Finally, the Shark APEX Upright Vacuum brings together powerful suction and advanced filtration to tackle allergens and pet dander effectively. Its self-cleaning brush roll is an added bonus for maintaining performance and efficiency, ensuring carpets stay clean and free of hair and debris.
What Are Actual Users Saying About Their Shark Vacuums for Carpet?
Actual users have provided a range of feedback about their experiences with Shark vacuums specifically designed for carpet cleaning.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352: Many users praise this model for its powerful suction and effective carpet cleaning capabilities, particularly for pet hair. The detachable canister allows for easy maneuverability and cleaning of stairs and upholstery, making it versatile for various cleaning tasks.
- Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away NV501: Users often highlight its advanced features such as the powered brush roll that easily lifts embedded dirt and pet hair from carpets. The vacuum’s ability to convert to a portable unit adds convenience and makes it easier to clean above-floor areas, which users find particularly beneficial.
- Shark Vertex DuoClean Powered Lift-Away AZ2002: This model receives high marks for its innovative DuoClean technology that allows users to seamlessly transition from carpets to hard floors without losing suction. Many users appreciate the anti-allergen complete seal technology that traps dust and allergens, ensuring a cleaner environment.
- Shark ION F80 MultiFLEX: Users enjoy the flexibility of this cordless vacuum, which is lightweight and easy to maneuver around furniture. The dual battery system offers extended runtime, allowing users to clean larger carpeted areas without interruption, making it a popular choice for busy households.
- Shark Rocket Ultra-Light HV302: This vacuum is favored by users for its compact design and powerful suction, particularly effective on low-pile carpets. The convenience of being lightweight makes it easy to carry around, and users also appreciate the easy-to-empty dust cup for hassle-free maintenance.
How Can You Maintain Your Shark Vacuum to Ensure Optimal Carpet Cleaning?
To maintain your Shark vacuum for optimal carpet cleaning, consider the following essential practices:
- Regularly Clean the Filters: Keeping the filters clean is crucial for maintaining suction power. Shark vacuums typically have a washable filter that should be rinsed under water every few months to remove dust and debris, ensuring efficient performance.
- Check and Clear the Brush Roll: Hair and debris can easily get tangled in the brush roll, hindering its ability to clean effectively. Regularly inspect the brush roll for any buildup and clean it by removing hair and dirt to maintain optimal function.
- Empty the Dust Canister: Overfilling the dust canister can reduce suction and affect the vacuum’s performance. Make it a habit to empty the canister after each use or when it reaches the full line to ensure it operates at its best.
- Inspect for Blockages: Blockages in the hose or other pathways can severely impact suction. Periodically check all components, including the hose and attachments, for clogs and clear any obstructions to maintain airflow.
- Maintain the Power Cord: A damaged power cord can lead to electrical issues or safety hazards. Regularly inspect the cord for frays or cuts and avoid wrapping it too tightly around the vacuum to extend its lifespan.