Dealing with spills, stains, and everyday dirt on your carpets? We’ve all been there. Finding the right carpet cleaner can make all the difference in keeping your floors looking fresh and spotless.
Whether you need to tackle pet accidents, wine spills, or just regular wear and tear, our guide will help you choose the best carpet cleaner for the job.
From powerful machines to easy-to-use sprays, we’ll cover the top options to suit your needs. Let’s dive in and get your carpets looking brand new again!
Best Versatile
The long cord ensures you can reach all corners of your home without constantly switching outlets.
Buy if…
- you want powerful suction for deep cleaning.
- you have a mix of carpet and hard floors.
- you need a vacuum with a large dust bin.
- you prefer a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver design.
- you want a vacuum with a long cord.
- you have pets that shed a lot.
Don’t buy if…
- you prefer cordless vacuums.
- you need a compact vacuum for small spaces.
- you have a limited budget.
The Shark EX201 CarpetXpert carpet vacuum is a top contender among the best carpet cleaners. Its powerful suction makes it perfect for deep cleaning, easily lifting dirt and pet hair from carpets. It’s great for homes with both carpets and hard floors, thanks to its versatile design.
The large dust bin means you won’t have to empty it frequently, saving you time during your cleaning routine.
This vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it convenient for cleaning large areas without much effort. The long cord ensures you can reach all corners of your home without constantly switching outlets. Pet owners will love how efficiently it picks up hair, keeping their homes tidy and allergen-free.
Overall, the Shark EX201 CarpetXpert stands out as one of the best carpet cleaners, offering excellent performance and convenience for everyday cleaning needs.
Its features cater to various household requirements, ensuring your home stays spotless with minimal hassle.
Shark EX201 CarpetXpert Upright Carpet Cleaner Reviews
- Powerful: Customers love the strong suction and effective cleaning performance.
- Versatile: Many users appreciate its ability to clean carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
- Easy to use: Customers find the machine straightforward and user-friendly.
- Lightweight: Users like that it’s easy to maneuver and carry.
- Noisy: Some customers mention the machine is louder than expected.
- Small tank: A few users find the water tank needs frequent refills.
Best For Deep Cleaning
The large water tank means fewer trips to refill, allowing for uninterrupted cleaning sessions.
Buy if…
- you need deep cleaning for carpets.
- you have pets that shed heavily.
- you want a lightweight carpet cleaner.
- you prefer easy-to-use controls.
- you need a cleaner with multiple cleaning modes.
- you want a large water tank.
Don’t buy if…
- you prefer a cordless carpet cleaner.
- you need a cleaner for hard floors.
- you have limited storage space.
The Hoover PowerScrub upright carpet cleaner machine is a standout among the best carpet cleaners. It’s designed for deep cleaning, making it perfect for homes with high-traffic areas and pets. This machine is lightweight, so it’s easy to maneuver around the house without much effort.
Its user-friendly controls make operating the machine straightforward, even for those not used to using carpet cleaners. With multiple cleaning modes, you can easily switch between deep cleaning and quick touch-ups. The large water tank means fewer trips to refill, allowing for uninterrupted cleaning sessions.
Pet owners will appreciate how effectively it picks up hair and removes stains, leaving carpets fresh and clean.
Overall, the Hoover PowerScrub is one of the best carpet cleaners available, providing powerful cleaning performance and convenience for everyday use. It’s a reliable choice for keeping your carpets looking their best.
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Upright Carpet Cleaner Machine Reviews
- Effective: Customers praise its deep-cleaning abilities on various carpet types.
- Easy to use: Many users find it simple to operate and handle.
- Lightweight: Customers like the machine’s manageable weight and portability.
- Drying feature: Users appreciate the heated drying for faster results.
- Leaking issues: Some customers report problems with water leaks.
- Fragile parts: A few users mention that certain parts feel flimsy.
Best Portable
The compact design makes it easy to store, fitting conveniently in small spaces.
Buy if…
- you need a portable carpet cleaner.
- you want to clean upholstery easily.
- you have pets and need to remove stains.
- you need a lightweight cleaner.
- you want an easy-to-store cleaner.
- you prefer quick spot cleaning.
Don’t buy if…
- you need to clean large carpeted areas.
- you prefer a cordless cleaner.
- you need a heavy-duty cleaner for tough jobs.
The Bissell Little Green multi-purpose portable carpet and upholstery cleaner is a handy tool among the best carpet cleaners. It’s designed for quick spot cleaning and is perfect for tackling small messes. This cleaner is lightweight and easy to carry around, making it ideal for portable use.
It works great on upholstery, helping you keep your furniture looking fresh and clean. Pet owners will love how efficiently it removes stains and messes left by their furry friends. The compact design makes it easy to store, fitting conveniently in small spaces.
This cleaner is simple to use, with straightforward controls that anyone can manage. It’s ideal for quick cleanups, making daily maintenance a breeze.
Overall, the Bissell Little Green stands out among the best carpet cleaners for its convenience, portability, and effective cleaning power. It’s a must-have for keeping your home spotless with minimal effort.
Bissell Little Green Carpet Cleaner Reviews
- Compact: Customers love its small, portable size for easy storage and use.
- Effective: Many users appreciate its powerful stain and spot cleaning performance.
- Easy to use: Customers find it simple and straightforward to operate.
- Versatile: Users like that it works well on carpets, upholstery, and car interiors.
- Small tank: Some customers feel the water tank is too small and needs frequent refills.
- Noisy: A few users mention the machine is quite loud during operation.
Best For Pet Owners
features a four-row DeepReach PowerBrush Roll that lifts away dirt and stains that a regular vacuum can’t handle.
Buy if…
- you have pets that create messes.
- you need deep cleaning for carpets.
- you want a lightweight cleaner.
- you have a mix of carpet and rugs.
- you prefer an affordable carpet cleaner.
- you want easy-to-use controls.
Don’t buy if…
- you need to clean hard floors.
- you prefer a cordless cleaner.
- you have limited storage space.
The Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush pet carpet cleaner is perfect for pet owners. It’s lightweight and powerful, making it easy to clean carpets and tackle tough pet messes. This machine features a four-row DeepReach PowerBrush Roll that lifts away dirt and stains that a regular vacuum can’t handle.
One of the standout features is the two-tank technology, which keeps clean and dirty water separate. This ensures you’re always cleaning with fresh water. The tanks are also easy to remove, fill, and empty, simplifying the cleaning process.
The Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush is designed for high-traffic areas, small spaces, and area rugs. Its compact design makes it convenient to store and maneuver, especially in tight spaces. The removable nozzle makes it easy to maintain and clean the machine after use.
Purchasing this cleaner also supports a good cause, as every purchase helps save homeless pets through the Bissell Pet Foundation. This combination of functionality, ease of use, and charitable support makes it one of the best carpet cleaners for pet owners.
Overall, the Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush pet carpet cleaner is a great choice if you have pets and need a reliable, easy-to-use cleaner. It’s lightweight, powerful, and designed to handle the messes that pets can leave behind.
Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush Pet Carpet Cleaner Reviews
- Pet-friendly: Customers love its effectiveness at removing pet stains and odors.
- Lightweight: Many users appreciate its light weight and easy maneuverability.
- Powerful suction: Customers praise the strong suction for deep cleaning.
- Affordable: Users find it to be a good value for the price.
- Small tank: Some customers feel the tank requires frequent refills.
- Noisy: A few users mention that the machine is a bit loud.
Carpet Cleaners Reviews
Carpet cleaners have garnered a variety of feedback from users, reflecting their utility and effectiveness in maintaining clean carpets.
One of the most frequently mentioned benefits in carpet cleaner reviews is their exceptional ability to remove tough stains, including those from coffee, wine, and pet accidents. According to Better Homes and Gardens, users often highlight how these machines can tackle both fresh and set-in stains, significantly improving the look and feel of carpets. This capability is particularly valuable for households with children or pets, where spills and messes are common.
Users also appreciate the convenience and efficiency of carpet cleaners. Many note that modern models are easy to set up and operate, with features like multiple cleaning modes and pre-treatment options enhancing their performance. The portability and ease of use make it simple for users to handle everyday messes without professional help.
Overall, user experiences reflect a high level of satisfaction with carpet cleaners. Many report that regular use of these machines not only keeps their carpets looking new but also extends their lifespan. The quick drying times of some models are an added bonus, allowing users to return to normal activities sooner without the worry of lingering moisture.
In summary, carpet cleaners are well-regarded by users for their powerful stain removal, ease of use, and the overall improvement they bring to home cleanliness.
These benefits make them a popular choice for maintaining pristine carpets, enhancing both aesthetics and hygiene in living spaces.
What You Should Consider Before Purcahse
Type of carpet cleaner
The first thing to consider is the type of carpet cleaner you need. There are full-sized carpet cleaners, portable spot cleaners, and steam cleaners.
Full-sized carpet cleaners are best for deep cleaning large areas. Portable spot cleaners are perfect for quick cleanups and tackling small stains.
Steam cleaners use hot water vapor to sanitize and freshen carpets but might not be as thorough for deep cleaning as the best carpet cleaners.
Cleaning performance
Assessing the cleaning performance of a carpet cleaner is crucial. Look for models with strong suction power and effective brushes.
These features help lift dirt, stains, and pet hair from deep within the carpet fibers. Machines with rotating brushes are particularly effective at scrubbing and lifting embedded dirt.
Ease of use
Consider how easy the carpet cleaner is to use. Lightweight models are easier to maneuver, especially in large or multi-story homes. Look for features like easy-to-fill water tanks, simple controls, and a long power cord. These feature
make the cleaning process more efficient and less cumbersome. A carpet cleaner that’s easy to handle will encourage you to clean more frequently, maintaining the quality of your carpets.
Tank size
The size of the water tank is another important factor. Larger tanks allow for longer cleaning sessions without needing to refill. However, they can also make the machine heavier and harder to move around.
Smaller tanks are easier to handle but require more frequent refills. Choose a tank size that balances convenience and efficiency for your specific needs.
Drying time
Consider the drying time of the carpet cleaner. Some machines have features like heated drying or powerful suction that reduce the amount of water left in the carpet.
Faster drying times prevent mold and mildew growth and allow you to use your cleaned areas sooner.
Check product specifications and user reviews to understand how quickly a machine can dry your carpets.
Price and budget
Determine your budget before shopping for a carpet cleaner. Prices can vary significantly based on features and brand.
While high-end models offer more advanced features and better performance, there are also budget-friendly options that can effectively clean your carpets. Consider what features are most important to you and find a model that fits your budget.
Brand and warranty
Researching the brand and warranty options is essential. Established brands often offer more reliable and durable products. A good warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.
Check what the warranty covers and the duration. Some brands offer extended warranties or additional customer service options.
Customer reviews
Finally, read carpet cleaner reviews to get an idea of real-world performance.
Reviews can highlight strengths and weaknesses that you might not find in product descriptions. Look for patterns in feedback, such as recurring issues or highly praised features. This insight can help you make a more informed decision.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best carpet cleaner that meets your needs and keeps your carpets looking their best.
What Is the Best Way to Clean Carpet?
Routine Cleaning
The best way to clean a carpet depends on its condition. For routine cleaning, vacuuming with the best carpet cleaners is key. It removes dirt and prevents buildup, which can damage carpet fibers over time. Make sure to vacuum high-traffic areas more frequently to keep them looking fresh.
Deep Cleaning
For deeper cleaning, using a carpet cleaner is ideal. These machines use water and detergent to scrub the carpet fibers, lifting out embedded dirt and stains. If you have pets or heavy foot traffic, a carpet cleaner with strong suction and a rotating brush is best. This ensures a thorough clean, leaving your carpet looking and smelling fresh.
Spot Cleaning
For stubborn stains, a spot cleaner can work wonders. These compact machines target specific areas, making them perfect for spills and pet accidents. Always test a small area first to make sure the cleaner doesn’t damage your carpet. Using spot cleaners in conjunction with the best carpet cleaners ensures your carpet stays in top condition.
Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance with the best carpet cleaners keeps your carpet looking fresh and extends its life. Schedule deep cleaning sessions every few months and address spills and stains promptly. This routine will help maintain the appearance and longevity of your carpets.
What Is the Difference Between Carpet Cleaners and Spot Cleaners?
When it comes to keeping your carpets clean, you might wonder whether you need a carpet cleaner or a spot cleaner. While both are great tools for maintaining your home, they serve different purposes and have distinct features. Let’s break down the differences to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Carpet Cleaners
Carpet cleaners, also known as carpet shampooers, are designed to clean entire carpets. They’re larger machines that use water and cleaning solutions to deep clean carpet fibers.
These machines have powerful brushes and strong suction to lift dirt, stains, and pet hair from deep within the carpet.
Carpet cleaners are ideal for whole-house cleaning or large areas that need regular maintenance. They’re perfect for annual deep cleans or if you have a lot of foot traffic and pets.
One of the best carpet cleaners can complement a carpet cleaner by keeping your carpets free of surface dirt between deep cleans. Carpet cleaners are generally heavier and bulkier, which can make them a bit harder to maneuver and store. However, their cleaning power is unmatched for giving your carpets a thorough refresh.
Spot Cleaners
Spot cleaners, on the other hand, are smaller, portable machines designed for tackling specific stains and spills. They’re perfect for quick cleanups when accidents happen, like when your pet has an accident or you spill a drink. Spot cleaners use a combination of water, cleaning solution, and suction to target small areas without the need to clean the entire carpet.
These machines are lightweight and easy to carry around, making them convenient for spot treatments. Because they’re smaller, spot cleaners are also easier to store. They’re great for apartments or homes with limited storage space. If you often find yourself needing to clean small messes, a spot cleaner can be a lifesaver.
Key Differences
The main difference between carpet cleaners and spot cleaners is their size and intended use. Carpet cleaners are best for whole-room or large area cleaning, providing a deep clean to refresh your entire carpet. Spot cleaners are best for small, targeted areas, dealing with spills and stains as they occur. Both can be essential tools in maintaining clean carpets, but they serve different roles.
Using one of the best carpet cleaners regularly will keep your carpet looking fresh and extend the time between deep cleans. For a comprehensive carpet care routine, having both a carpet cleaner and a spot cleaner can be beneficial.
The carpet cleaner handles the big jobs, while the spot cleaner takes care of the little ones, ensuring your carpets stay in great shape year-round.
Can You Clean a Carpet With a Steam Cleaner?
Yes, you can clean a carpet with a steam cleaner. Steam cleaners use hot water vapor to loosen dirt and kill germs. They are effective for sanitizing and freshening up carpets. However, they might not be as thorough as the best carpet cleaners for deep cleaning.
Effectiveness
Steam cleaners are great for removing surface dirt and stains. The hot steam penetrates the carpet fibers, breaking down dirt and grime. This method is excellent for killing bacteria, dust mites, and other allergens. It’s a good choice for homes with pets or allergy sufferers.
Usage tips
Before using a steam cleaner, vacuum the carpet thoroughly with one of the best carpet cleaners. This removes loose dirt and debris, allowing the steam cleaner to work more effectively. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure your carpet can handle the steam.
Delicate carpets
Be cautious with delicate or natural fiber carpets. Excessive moisture and heat can cause damage, shrinkage, or discoloration. For these types of carpets, it might be better to use a dry cleaning method or consult a professional.
Drying time
Steam cleaning leaves carpets damp, so allow adequate drying time. Open windows and use fans to speed up the drying process. Avoid walking on the carpet until it’s completely dry to prevent new dirt from sticking.
Regular maintenance
Regular maintenance with the best carpet cleaners will reduce the need for frequent steam cleaning. Vacuuming at least once a week keeps dirt and dust from accumulating. For high-traffic areas or homes with pets, consider vacuuming more often.
Overall benefits
Steam cleaning is a valuable tool for deep cleaning and sanitizing carpets. It’s not a replacement for vacuuming but a complementary method. Using both steam cleaners and the best carpet cleaners ensures your carpets stay clean and fresh.
By combining these methods, you can maintain a healthy and beautiful home environment.
How Often Should You Clean Your Carpets?
The frequency of cleaning your carpets depends on your household and lifestyle. Generally, vacuuming with the best carpet cleaners should be done weekly. This helps keep dirt and dust at bay, maintaining the carpet’s appearance and extending its life.
Regular vacuuming
For most homes, vacuuming once a week is sufficient. If you have pets, kids, or high-traffic areas, you might need to vacuum more often. Using one of the best carpet cleaners ensures thorough cleaning, picking up hair, dirt, and allergens effectively.
Deep cleaning
Deep cleaning your carpets should be done every 6 to 12 months. This involves using a carpet cleaner to remove embedded dirt and stains. Homes with pets, kids, or a lot of foot traffic might need deep cleaning more frequently. Deep cleaning helps refresh the carpet fibers and keep them looking new.
Spot cleaning
Accidents happen, so spot cleaning is essential. As soon as spills or stains occur, use a spot cleaner to address them immediately. This prevents stains from setting and becoming harder to remove. Quick action with a spot cleaner keeps your carpet looking pristine between deep cleans.
High-traffic areas
High-traffic areas like hallways and entryways may need extra attention. Consider vacuuming these areas more frequently, even daily if needed. This helps prevent dirt from being ground into the carpet fibers.
Pet owners
If you have pets, you’ll need to clean your carpets more often. Pet hair, dander, and accidents can quickly soil your carpets. Vacuuming several times a week and using a pet-specific carpet cleaner for deep cleaning can help manage pet-related messes.
Seasonal cleaning
Seasonal changes can also affect how often you clean your carpets. For instance, during winter, carpets can get dirtier due to mud and snow. Increasing your cleaning frequency during such times can help maintain your carpet’s condition.
Regular maintenance with the best carpet cleaners, combined with periodic deep cleaning and prompt spot cleaning, ensures your carpets stay clean and fresh.
Tailoring your cleaning schedule to your household’s needs will keep your carpets looking their best and prolong their lifespan.
