Welcome, fellow carpet dwellers! If you’ve got plush pile, shaggy rugs, or wall-to-wall carpeting, you know the struggle is real when it comes to keeping them pristine. Finding the best vacuum for carpet isn’t just about picking any machine; it’s about discovering a cleaning companion that truly understands how to lift embedded dirt, tackle pet hair, and refresh your home’s most comfortable surfaces. We’ve rolled up our sleeves, tested the top contenders, and are excited to share our expert recommendations to help you make an informed choice. Get ready to experience a cleaner, fresher home!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best Vacuum For Carpet Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum, Best for Carpet with HEPA Filter and Swivel Steering.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum is a fantastic contender for the best vacuum for carpet, delivering powerful cleaning results across multiple surfaces. Its innovative Lift-Away design makes it incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily clean both high and low areas. With its advanced filtration system, it’s a stellar choice for anyone concerned about allergens in their home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Deeply cleans carpets and handles bare floors with impressive suction power.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and under furniture.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Captures dust and allergens with a HEPA filter for a cleaner home environment.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Offers excellent maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe because it strikes an excellent balance between power, versatility, and allergen control. It’s not just a carpet cleaner; it transforms into a portable vacuum, making all those hard-to-reach spots surprisingly easy to tackle. The HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Seal are a huge plus for anyone aiming for a truly fresh and clean living space.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for households with mixed flooring, allergy sufferers, and those who need a versatile machine for both deep carpet cleaning and above-floor tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power on various carpet types.
- Versatile lift-away feature for thorough cleaning.
- Advanced HEPA filtration system traps allergens effectively.
- Easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
Cons:
- Can feel a bit heavy as a full upright for some users.
- Corded design requires plugging into different outlets.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
2. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet with HEPA Filter and Swivel Steering.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner continues Shark’s tradition of offering powerful performance, particularly making it a strong contender for the best vacuum for carpet. This model combines strong suction with intelligent features like lift-away functionality and a brushroll shutoff, adapting easily to various cleaning challenges. Its HEPA filter ensures a thorough clean, trapping allergens for a healthier home environment.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Easily detaches to become a portable pod, perfect for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and elevated surfaces.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Works with a HEPA filter to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens within the vacuum.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Allows for instant switching from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floor maintenance without hassle.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control and easy navigation around furniture and tight spaces.
Why We Recommend It
This Shark Navigator model stands out for its exceptional versatility and allergy-friendly features. The ability to seamlessly transition from an upright to a portable canister, combined with robust suction and effective allergen filtration, makes it an excellent choice for comprehensive home cleaning. It truly simplifies the process of tackling different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas.
Best For
It’s an ideal choice for pet owners, allergy sufferers, and anyone with a mix of carpeted and hard floors who needs a vacuum that can do it all efficiently.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Versatile 2-in-1 design for whole-home cleaning.
- Superior allergen capture with HEPA filter.
- Effortless transition between carpet and hard floors.
- Strong suction power for deep carpet cleaning.
Cons:
- The hose might be a bit short for some extended reaches.
- Dust cup capacity could be larger for very big homes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
3. Shark Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum for Carpet, with HEPA Filter and Swivel Steering.
When you’re searching for the best vacuum for carpet that won’t break the bank but still delivers on performance, the Shark Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is a standout choice. This model offers essential Shark features like the convenient Lift-Away design and advanced allergen filtration, proving that budget-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing a truly deep clean. It’s built for efficiency and ease of use in everyday cleaning tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Easily converts into a portable canister vacuum to clean hard-to-reach areas, stairs, and upholstery.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum with a high-efficiency HEPA filter.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control for maneuvering around furniture and tight corners with ease.
- ✓ Powerful Upright Suction: Delivers effective cleaning power for various carpet types, from low to high pile.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Shark Navigator because it provides incredible value. You get the powerful suction and the highly functional Lift-Away feature that Shark is known for, all while keeping your budget in mind. It’s a reliable workhorse that will keep your carpets and other surfaces thoroughly clean, especially benefiting those with allergies.
Best For
This vacuum is perfect for budget-conscious shoppers, allergy sufferers, and anyone needing a versatile upright vacuum capable of effective carpet and above-floor cleaning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money with premium features.
- Effective allergen filtration for a healthier home.
- Detachable canister for versatile cleaning tasks.
- Good suction on a variety of carpet textures.
Cons:
- Might be slightly louder than some premium models.
- Standard accessories may be less extensive.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
4. Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum for Carpet with Pet Hair Pickup.
For homes with furry friends, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum stands out as a strong contender for the best vacuum for carpet specifically designed for pet hair pickup. This vacuum is engineered to tackle embedded pet hair with its specialized brush roll and offers fantastic maneuverability thanks to its swivel steering. Plus, every purchase helps save homeless pets, adding a feel-good factor to your cleaning routine.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Triple Action Brush Roll: Loosens, lifts, and removes embedded pet hair from carpets and upholstery effectively.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides superior maneuverability to clean around furniture and obstacles with ease.
- ✓ Bagless Design: Features an easy-to-empty dirt tank, simplifying maintenance and reducing ongoing costs.
- ✓ Edge-to-Edge Cleaning: Helps clean closer to baseboards and corners for a more thorough job.
Why We Recommend It
If pet hair is a constant battle in your home, the Bissell CleanView Swivel is your ally. Its specialized brush roll and powerful suction make quick work of even stubborn pet fur, and the swivel steering means no nook or cranny gets missed. It’s truly built for pet-friendly homes seeking a deep carpet clean, all while contributing to a great cause.
Best For
This vacuum is an excellent choice for pet owners, especially those with multiple pets and predominantly carpeted homes, who need efficient pet hair removal and easy maneuverability.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional at picking up pet hair.
- Great maneuverability with swivel steering.
- Easy to empty and maintain bagless design.
- Supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Cons:
- Can be slightly heavy for some users to lift.
- May be inconvenient for reaching under very low furniture.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This vacuum cleaner is really good — the suction power is excellent. It picks up hair, pet fur, dust, and even crumbs very well. The only downside is that it’s a bit inconvenient to use under the bed or couch, and it’s slightly heavy. Overall, though, it works great!😍”
Customer Review: “I believe this is the best vacuum I’ve ever owned. We recently moved and purchased a home, our previous home was all hardwood floors and since I have back issues I had a great lightweight floor vac, our new home has wall to wall carpeting upstairs and I needed to purchase a better vacuum, I had an o”
5. Shark Rocket Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor with Swivel Steering.
If you’re seeking the best vacuum for carpet that’s also incredibly lightweight and versatile for an entire home, the Shark Rocket Corded Bagless Vacuum is an excellent pick. Weighing under 9 lbs, this stick vacuum easily converts into a handheld, making floor-to-ceiling cleaning effortless. Its powerful corded suction ensures consistent performance on both carpets and hard floors, making it a truly adaptable cleaning tool.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight Design: Weighing less than 9 lbs, it’s easy to maneuver and carry throughout your home.
- ✓ 2-in-1 Versatility: Converts from a powerful stick vacuum to a convenient handheld vacuum for above-floor cleaning.
- ✓ Multi-Surface Cleaning: Delivers strong suction on both carpeted areas and hard floors.
- ✓ Fingertip Controls: Easily switch between floor types and power settings right at your fingertips.
Why We Recommend It
The Shark Rocket is a fantastic recommendation for its unparalleled lightness and flexibility. It delivers impressive cleaning power for its size, especially on carpets, and the quick conversion to a handheld makes it perfect for tackling stairs, upholstery, and even cobwebs. For those who dislike heavy vacuums but need solid performance, this is a clear winner.
Best For
This vacuum is best for individuals looking for a lightweight, highly maneuverable solution for both carpets and hard floors, and those who appreciate the convenience of a convertible handheld option.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to handle.
- Versatile conversion to a handheld vacuum.
- Strong, consistent corded suction power.
- Excellent for both carpet and hard floor cleaning.
Cons:
- Smaller dust cup requires more frequent emptying.
- Corded design, though powerful, limits mobility compared to cordless.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I absolutely love how lightweight this Shark Rocket is! It’s a game-changer for someone like me with back issues. I can easily carry it up and down stairs, and the suction on my carpets is surprisingly strong for such a light vacuum. Plus, switching to the handheld for quick cleanups is super convenient.”
Customer Review: “This vacuum is incredibly versatile. I use it daily on my mix of area rugs and hard floors, and it transitions seamlessly with the fingertip controls. The corded design means I never run out of power mid-clean, which is a huge plus. My only minor gripe is the small dust cup, but emptying it is quick and easy.”
6. Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floor, Great for Home Pets.
The Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum offers a compelling mix of lightweight design and powerful performance, making it a strong contender for the best vacuum for carpet, especially for homes with pets. At just 10 pounds, it’s remarkably easy to handle, yet its 960-watt motor ensures deep and consistent suction across various floor types. The extra-large dust cup is a thoughtful addition for uninterrupted cleaning sessions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight Yet Powerful: Delivers heavyweight cleaning performance from an ultra-light 10-pound frame.
- ✓ Strong Suction Across Surfaces: A robust 960-watt motor provides consistent suction on carpets, hardwood, and tile.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup: A 2.6-liter capacity means fewer interruptions for emptying, and it’s mess-free.
- ✓ Pet-Friendly Design: Effectively tackles pet hair and dander, making it ideal for homes with furry companions.
Why We Recommend It
We’re impressed by the Eureka PowerSpeed’s ability to combine such a light design with serious cleaning power. It’s a fantastic option for anyone who wants an effective vacuum that isn’t cumbersome, and its large dust cup is a game-changer for reducing cleaning time. For pet owners, its performance on pet hair is a significant advantage.
Best For
This vacuum is excellent for households with pets, those seeking a powerful yet lightweight cleaning solution, and individuals with mixed flooring who appreciate an extra-large dust capacity.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Remarkably lightweight for easy maneuverability.
- Strong suction power for deep carpet cleaning.
- Generous 2.6L dust cup capacity minimizes emptying.
- Effective at picking up pet hair.
Cons:
- Can be a bit noisy during operation.
- Basic attachment set compared to some higher-end models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The Eureka Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice for anyone looking for strong suction, versatility, and ease of use at an affordable price. It performs well on multiple floor types, including carpets, hardwood, and tile. The vacuum is lightweight enough to maneuver comfortably, yet”
Customer Review: “I have a robot vacuum, I thought was doing a good job, until I bought this and used it. This vacuum works great!!! It came in quickly and was very easy to put together. It is a little noisy but most good vacuums are, no issues with that. Was easy to dump depris from cannister. Cord was plenty long e”
7. Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum for Carpet, with Full Power Performance.
The Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Vacuum proves that big cleaning power can come in a small, lightweight package, making it a serious contender for the best vacuum for carpet in smaller spaces. Weighing just 10 lbs, this vacuum offers full-size performance without the bulk, making it incredibly easy to maneuver and store. It’s designed for efficient and powerful suction, ensuring your carpets get a thorough clean every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight and Compact (10 lbs): Easy to carry, maneuver, and store, ideal for apartments or multi-story homes.
- ✓ Full-Size Power: Despite its compact design, it delivers powerful suction for deep carpet cleaning.
- ✓ Easy to Empty Dirt Bin: Simple, mess-free disposal of collected dirt and debris.
- ✓ Supports Pet Foundation: A portion of every purchase goes to the BISSELL Pet Foundation to help homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
We’re impressed by how Bissell packed so much power into such a compact and lightweight design. This vacuum is perfect if you live in a smaller home, an apartment, or have multiple levels where carrying a heavy vacuum is a chore. It gives you the deep cleaning performance you expect from a full-sized upright without the bulk, making carpet cleaning a breeze.
Best For
This vacuum is best suited for individuals with smaller living spaces, those who need a lightweight and easy-to-store option, and anyone who wants efficient carpet cleaning without a bulky machine.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and compact for easy handling.
- Delivers surprisingly powerful suction for its size.
- Simple and hygienic dirt tank emptying.
- Ideal for smaller homes and apartments.
Cons:
- Narrower cleaning path compared to full-size vacuums.
- Might require more passes for larger carpeted areas.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “After many years of faithful service, my old upright vacuum was forced into retirement. After a LOT of clicking around, reading reviews, and watching videos, I decided to give the Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo a try. It was very easy to set up right out of the box, and it really impressed me durin”
Customer Review: “Very light weight and on the smaller size makes storing easyGreat cleaning powerThis little machine has a lot of suctionEasy to use and empty the dirt canisterGood quality and looks”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Vacuum For Carpet
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best vacuum for carpet, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by options. We focused on several key factors to narrow down our selections. First and foremost is suction power; a vacuum needs to have robust suction to pull embedded dirt and debris from deep within carpet fibers. This is crucial for both cleanliness and maintaining your carpet’s longevity. Next, we looked at the brush roll design. A good brush roll needs to agitate carpet effectively without damaging the fibers, often with adjustable height settings for different pile types. Features like HEPA filtration are vital for allergy sufferers, trapping fine particles and allergens within the vacuum. Lastly, maneuverability, including swivel steering and lightweight design, makes a huge difference in the ease and speed of cleaning, especially around furniture and in multi-story homes. Don’t forget attachments, which can extend a vacuum’s versatility for stairs, upholstery, and crevices.
Budget Planning
Budget is always a consideration when investing in a new appliance. The good news is that you don’t always need to spend a fortune to get the best vacuum for carpet. Entry-level models, often upright or stick vacuums, can offer surprisingly good suction and basic features for everyday cleaning. Mid-range options typically introduce more specialized features like enhanced brush rolls for pet hair, advanced filtration, and convertible designs (like the Lift-Away technology). High-end vacuums might offer cordless convenience, smart features, or specialized tools for specific types of homes. Think about your unique needs: do you have pets, allergies, or a large multi-level home? Prioritizing these requirements will help you determine where to allocate your budget most effectively, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right vacuum means balancing power, features, and your lifestyle. Whether you opt for a powerful upright, a versatile stick, or a specialized pet hair vacuum, the goal is a cleaner, healthier home. We’ve highlighted vacuums that excel in carpet cleaning, offering a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Remember that a vacuum is an investment in your home’s cleanliness and comfort, so taking the time to choose wisely will pay off in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I vacuum my carpets?
A: For general household carpets, vacuuming at least once a week is recommended. However, if you have pets, children, or a high-traffic home, you might want to vacuum two to three times a week to keep dirt and allergens at bay.
Q: Is a bagless or bagged vacuum better for carpets?
A: Both can be effective for carpets. Bagless vacuums are convenient because they don’t require bag replacements, saving you money and effort. However, emptying them can release some dust back into the air, which might be an issue for severe allergy sufferers. Bagged vacuums tend to trap dust and allergens more securely, making them a better choice for those with sensitivities, though bags are an ongoing expense.
Q: What features should I look for in a carpet vacuum if I have pets?
A: If you have pets, look for a vacuum with strong suction, a powerful brush roll designed to pick up pet hair (often called a “tangle-free” or “multi-surface” brush), and excellent filtration like a HEPA filter to trap pet dander. Specialized pet tools, like a mini motorized brush, are also a huge plus for upholstery and stairs.
Q: Can I use an upright vacuum on delicate rugs?
A: Many upright vacuums, especially those with brushroll shutoff features, can be safely used on delicate rugs. If your vacuum doesn’t have a brushroll shutoff, you might need to use an attachment for gentler suction-only cleaning, or adjust the brush height setting to its highest position to avoid damage.
Q: Why is swivel steering important for a carpet vacuum?
A: Swivel steering significantly improves maneuverability. It allows you to easily navigate around furniture legs, corners, and other obstacles without having to lift or awkwardly drag the vacuum, making cleaning faster and less physically demanding, especially in homes with a lot of furnishings.
There you have it – our comprehensive guide to finding the best vacuum for carpet! We hope our detailed reviews and buying tips empower you to choose a vacuum that brings new life to your carpets and simplifies your cleaning routine. Remember, a clean home is a happy home, and the right vacuum can make all the difference. Don’t wait – click through to check out our top picks on Amazon and start enjoying fresher, cleaner carpets today!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
