We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Carpet Cleaners 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark CarpetXpert HairPro with StainStriker, Upright Carpet, Area Rug & Upholstery Cleaner, Perfect for Pets & Hair Removal, Carpet Shampooer, 4 Cleaning Tools, Pet Cleaning Solution, Copper, EX301

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,186
Type of Carpet Cleaner
Cleaning Power
Drying Time

Most important from
3341 reviews

Type of Carpet Cleaner
This carpet cleaner is versatile and easy to use, making it a great investment for any home.
Cleaning Power
This machine did a great job and got out old stains from two different carpets that I thought would never come out.
Drying Time
The spot cleaner is easy to use and does an excellent job, with strong suction leaving the carpet only lightly damp.
Weight and Maneuverability
Using this cleaner was a breeze, with no need to push a button to put water down.
Attachments and Accessories
It's worth every penny, with added bonus of three different hand tool attachments.
Ease of Maintenance
The brush roll cover comes off easily to clean, which is important when cleaning carpets with pets.

The Shark CarpetXpert HairPro with StainStriker is an upright carpet cleaner designed for deep cleaning carpets, rugs, and upholstery, making it particularly suitable for homes with pets or high traffic areas. Its standout feature is the high-speed brushroll combined with PowerSpray high-pressure spray and powerful suction, which ensures effective dirt and grime removal. The StainStriker technology is impressive for tackling tough stains, including pet stains, using a powerful OXY formula.

Moreover, the HairPro technology is highly effective at picking up deeply embedded pet hair without clogging or hair wrapping, which is a common issue with other carpet cleaners. This model also eliminates odors instantly, which is beneficial for households with pets or smokers. The handheld spot and stain eliminator extends the cleaner's reach to stairs and upholstery, adding to its versatility.

However, at 20.72 pounds, it may be considered heavy for some users, potentially affecting maneuverability. The built-in self-cleaning feature is a great addition, making maintenance easier by cleaning the tool and hose automatically. It also comes with a variety of accessories and cleaning solutions, adding value. Although it offers powerful cleaning capabilities, the weight and size might not be ideal for everyone, especially those looking for a more lightweight and compact option.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,186
Type of Carpet Cleaner
Cleaning Power
Drying Time

Most important from
3341 reviews

Type of Carpet Cleaner
This carpet cleaner is versatile and easy to use, making it a great investment for any home.
Cleaning Power
This machine did a great job and got out old stains from two different carpets that I thought would never come out.
Drying Time
The spot cleaner is easy to use and does an excellent job, with strong suction leaving the carpet only lightly damp.
Weight and Maneuverability
Using this cleaner was a breeze, with no need to push a button to put water down.
Attachments and Accessories
It's worth every penny, with added bonus of three different hand tool attachments.
Ease of Maintenance
The brush roll cover comes off easily to clean, which is important when cleaning carpets with pets.
#2

Hoover Powerscrub XL Pet Carpet Cleaner Machine, Upright Shampooer, FH68050, Black

Rating
9.4
Tank Capacity
Weight and Portability
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
59287 reviews

Tank Capacity
The design prevents overfilling and simplifies refilling and emptying, streamlining the cleaning process.
Weight and Portability
The machine is surprisingly lightweight and maneuverable, gliding smoothly like a vacuum even when full of water.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments for upholstery and stairs work well, effectively tackling pet messes and hard-to-reach spots.
Drying Time/Water Extraction
Heated air technology speeds up drying time, leaving carpets dry within a couple of hours instead of many.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Easy to assemble and maintain, with parts that remove effortlessly for cleaning after use.

The Hoover Powerscrub XL Pet Carpet Cleaner is a solid choice for pet owners and anyone needing a deep-cleaning carpet machine. It has a decent 0.8-gallon tank, which allows for longer cleaning sessions without frequent refills or emptying, thanks in part to its TruMAX recovery tank technology. The five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes work well to lift tough stains, making it more effective than cleaners with fewer brushes. Its HeatForce feature helps speed up drying time, so carpets don’t stay wet for long.

Weighing about 27 pounds, it’s on the heavier side for a carpet cleaner, which might make it less convenient to carry around or use on stairs, but its upright design and included 8-foot hose with specialized pet and upholstery tools add versatility around the home. The machine’s Auto Mix feature takes the guesswork out of mixing cleaning solution, ensuring good results without extra effort. Maintenance is fairly straightforward, with easy-to-clean brushes and a nozzle cleanout tool included.

With strong stain-fighting ability, pet-specific tools, and faster drying time, it serves as an excellent option for homes with pets, though its weight might be a drawback for frequent heavy-duty use or for those needing a lighter machine.

Rating
9.4
Tank Capacity
Weight and Portability
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
59287 reviews

Tank Capacity
The design prevents overfilling and simplifies refilling and emptying, streamlining the cleaning process.
Weight and Portability
The machine is surprisingly lightweight and maneuverable, gliding smoothly like a vacuum even when full of water.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments for upholstery and stairs work well, effectively tackling pet messes and hard-to-reach spots.
Drying Time/Water Extraction
Heated air technology speeds up drying time, leaving carpets dry within a couple of hours instead of many.
Ease of Cleaning and Maintenance
Easy to assemble and maintain, with parts that remove effortlessly for cleaning after use.
#3

Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer Machine with Multi-Purpose Tools, Pair Carpet Cleaner Solution

Rating
8.2
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Drying Time

Most important from
59287 reviews

Cleaning Power
This Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe is an absolute game-changer. It’s super easy to use, lightweight, and does an incredible job deep-cleaning carpets.
Water Tank Capacity
The separate clean and dirty water tanks are really convenient, and it’s easy to fill and empty.
Drying Time
The suction power is strong, so the carpet dries way faster than expected.
Weight and Maneuverability
This Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe is an absolute game-changer. It’s super easy to use, lightweight, and does an incredible job deep-cleaning carpets.
Attachments and Accessories
The attachments work nicely and are easy to connect and use.
Ease of Maintenance
This model was carefully thought out and designed to be very user-friendly.

The Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner is an upright shampooer designed for deep cleaning carpets. It stands out with Hoover's Exclusive SpinScrub® Technology, which uses multiple counter-rotating brushes for thorough cleaning. This ensures that carpet fibers are cleaned from all angles, making it quite effective at removing embedded dirt and stains. The cleaner features a Smart Tank™ system that makes filling, emptying, and cleaning the tanks straightforward, without causing a mess or requiring tools. This user-friendly design can save you time and hassle during maintenance.

Additionally, the recovery tank has a convenient quick pour spout for easy disposal of dirty water. Its 8-foot hose and upholstery tool are useful for cleaning stairs and other hard-to-reach areas, making this cleaner versatile. The DualV® Nozzle ensures even suction across surfaces, contributing to quicker and more uniform cleaning results. However, at 18.5 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for some users to maneuver, especially for extended cleaning sessions or for those with limited strength.

While the multiple brush system is beneficial for cleaning, it may also require extra care and cleaning to maintain its efficiency. The dimensions are fairly standard, but users with smaller storage spaces might find it bulky. Its bright red color might not appeal to everyone’s taste. This carpet cleaner is best suited for users looking for powerful cleaning performance and ease of maintenance, even if it means handling a slightly heavier machine.

Rating
8.2
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Drying Time

Most important from
59287 reviews

Cleaning Power
This Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe is an absolute game-changer. It’s super easy to use, lightweight, and does an incredible job deep-cleaning carpets.
Water Tank Capacity
The separate clean and dirty water tanks are really convenient, and it’s easy to fill and empty.
Drying Time
The suction power is strong, so the carpet dries way faster than expected.
Weight and Maneuverability
This Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe is an absolute game-changer. It’s super easy to use, lightweight, and does an incredible job deep-cleaning carpets.
Attachments and Accessories
The attachments work nicely and are easy to connect and use.
Ease of Maintenance
This model was carefully thought out and designed to be very user-friendly.

Buying Guide for the Best Carpet Cleaners

Buying a carpet cleaner can make a huge difference in keeping your carpets fresh, clean, and free of allergens and stains. Before you make a decision, understand where and how often you'll use it: Are you cleaning a whole house, just a few rooms, or handling pet messes? The right carpet cleaner will depend on the size of your space, the type of stains you frequently deal with, and how portable or easy to store the machine needs to be. Think about the cleaning jobs you need done most often, as this will guide you to the features and specs that match your needs.
Tank CapacityTank capacity determines how much water and cleaning solution the carpet cleaner can hold at one time. A larger tank lets you clean bigger areas before needing a refill, making it useful for larger homes or more extensive cleaning sessions. Smaller tanks are lighter and easier to handle, suiting those who plan to clean only small spaces or want something more portable. If you often clean big rooms or do deep cleans, a bigger tank is more convenient. For quick or spot cleaning, a smaller tank is usually sufficient and easier to manage.
Cleaning Path WidthThe cleaning path width is the span of the area the machine can clean in a single pass. A wider path means more carpet can be cleaned in less time, which is helpful for covering large areas quickly. Narrower cleaning paths are better for tight spaces or areas with lots of furniture. If you're cleaning large open rooms, go for a wider cleaning path. If you need to maneuver in small spaces or around obstacles, a narrow one will be more practical.
Weight and PortabilityThe weight and overall portability of a carpet cleaner affect how easy it is to push, carry, and store. Heavier cleaners often feel sturdier but might be difficult to move up and down stairs or across multiple floors. Lightweight models are easier to lift and store, particularly if you’ll be cleaning upstairs or in different rooms. Consider your physical strength and where you'll need to use the machine. If lifting or frequent movement is likely, prioritize lighter and more portable options.
Type of Brushes and Cleaning TechnologyCarpet cleaners use brushes or rollers to lift dirt and scrub stains out of carpet fibers. Some machines have motorized or rotating brushes for deeper cleaning, while others have stationary brushes suitable for lighter dirt and maintenance. Rotating or vibrating brushes excel at removing tough stains and cleaning high-traffic areas. If you need deep cleaning or often tackle stubborn stains, choose a machine with advanced brush systems. For regular, light maintenance, simpler brush types will suffice.
Attachments and AccessoriesMany carpet cleaners come with extra tools like hose attachments or nozzles for cleaning stairs, upholstery, or tight corners. These accessories make the cleaner more versatile. If you expect to clean sofas, car interiors, or stairs, look for models with specialized attachments. If you’ll only use the cleaner on carpets and floor spaces, accessories may be less important.
Drying Time/Water ExtractionHow well a carpet cleaner extracts water after cleaning affects how quickly your carpets dry. Machines with stronger suction or extraction technology pull out more water, which speeds up drying and reduces the chance of mold or mildew. If you need your carpets dry quickly—for example, in high-traffic areas or if you have kids or pets—choose a machine known for effective water extraction. For less frequent or overnight cleaning, drying time may be less crucial.
Ease of Cleaning and MaintenanceSome carpet cleaners require more upkeep, such as emptying tanks, cleaning the brushes, or clearing clogs. Easy-to-remove tanks and simple brush access make regular maintenance much easier. If you value convenience and want to avoid headaches after each use, opt for models designed with easy cleaning in mind. Consider how much time you're willing to spend keeping the cleaner in good shape.

FAQ