Finding the best cheap vacuum for carpet doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice performance. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn pet hair, everyday dust, or just need an efficient way to keep your rugs looking fresh without breaking the bank, there are excellent budget-friendly options available. We know how important it is to get good value, especially when it comes to cleaning essentials. That’s why we’ve put together a list of top vacuums that deliver powerful cleaning on carpets without a hefty price tag, ensuring your home stays spotless.
Quick Product Comparison
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Our Top 5 Best Cheap Vacuum For Carpet Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner, a Lightweight Shampooer Machine for Home Use.
If you’re looking for the best cheap vacuum for carpet that specifically tackles pet messes, the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner is a fantastic choice. This compact and lightweight machine is designed to deliver a powerful deep clean, making it perfect for homes with furry friends. It’s not just a vacuum; it’s a carpet shampooer, bringing a new level of freshness to your carpets and rugs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight and Compact: Extremely easy to maneuver and store, ideal for smaller homes or apartments.
- ✓ Powerful Pet Cleaning: Equipped with an antimicrobial PowerSpin brush roll, it aggressively cleans tough pet stains and odors.
- ✓ HeatForce Technology: Speeds up drying time, so you can enjoy clean, dry carpets faster.
- ✓ Versatile Use: Perfect for pet messes, high-traffic areas, and refreshing area rugs.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Hoover PowerDash because it offers specialized carpet cleaning at an incredibly affordable price. Its focus on pet messes, combined with features like HeatForce technology for quick drying, makes it an invaluable tool for pet owners. It’s a genuine powerhouse for its size and cost, providing a deep clean that traditional vacuums can’t match.
Best For
This carpet cleaner is best for pet owners, especially those with small spaces or high-traffic carpeted areas that need frequent deep cleaning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent at removing pet stains and odors.
- Lightweight and easy to carry, even up stairs.
- HeatForce technology significantly reduces drying time.
- Compact design makes storage simple.
Cons:
- Smaller capacity tanks may require more frequent refills/empties for larger areas.
- Primarily a spot cleaner/area rug cleaner, not ideal for whole-house deep cleaning.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Overall, I’m pleased with this Hoover carpet cleaner. We have several large area rugs in our newly built home that haven’t been cleaned (only vacuumed) since we moved in 18 months ago. We were thinking about getting a professional rug cleaner to do the job, but saw that this carpet cleaner would c”
Customer Review: “Bought for my 900 sf apartment and it does an amazing job! My car has a tendency to eat dry car food and will sometimes vomit little piles of it. I was getting tired of hand washing my carpet and so this beauty is taking over. It was super easy to use. Suction is great so it was not super damp when “
2. Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Carpet and Floor, AirSpeed Ultra-Lightwei…
The Eureka NEU10AE5 is a prime example of a powerful and cheap vacuum for carpet that doesn’t shy away from performance. This upright vacuum boasts impressive suction, making it highly effective on both carpets and hard floors. At just 7.7 pounds, its ultra-lightweight design means you can easily navigate around your home, reaching every nook and cranny without strain.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful All-Floor Suction: Effectively cleans dirt and debris from carpets, rugs, and hard surfaces.
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight Design: Weighs only 7.7 pounds, offering superior portability and easy maneuverability.
- ✓ Quick Release Handle: Transforms into an extended reach vacuum for above-floor cleaning with included tools.
- ✓ Bagless Design: Features an easy-to-empty dust cup, eliminating the need for expensive replacement bags.
Why We Recommend It
This Eureka model is our Editor’s Choice because it combines robust cleaning power with an incredibly lightweight build, making daily vacuuming less of a chore. It’s a versatile machine that performs well across different floor types, which is a huge plus for mixed homes. Its bagless design also contributes to long-term savings and convenience.
Best For
Ideal for those seeking a lightweight, powerful, and cheap vacuum for carpet and hard floors, especially if ease of use and portability are top priorities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional suction power for its price point.
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry upstairs.
- Versatile for both carpet and hard floor cleaning.
- Bagless design saves money and is easy to empty.
Cons:
- The small dust cup may require frequent emptying in larger homes.
- Noise level might be a bit higher compared to premium models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Great vacuum! Cleans well and the suction is strong. Easy to assemble, easy to clean the parts, and super light weight so it’s easy to move around.”
Customer Review: “I don’t do reviews very often. I got this on a Black Friday deal because I wanted something better than the tiny stick vac I was using in my unfinished basement. What I have now is like dust buster that pushes around like a vacuum cleaner but it takes forever and I have to do over spots multiple tim”
3. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum for Carpet, Hard Floor, and Pet Hair.
The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum stands out as the best budget-friendly vacuum for carpet cleaning. It strikes an impressive balance between being lightweight and delivering powerful suction, making it incredibly effective on various surfaces, including deep carpets and hard floors. With its focus on ease of use and robust performance, this vacuum is a stellar choice for anyone needing an affordable yet potent cleaning solution.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight & Portable: Weighing only 10 lbs, it’s effortless to carry and maneuver throughout your home.
- ✓ Powerful Multi-Surface Cleaning: Features 5 height adjustment settings, easily transitioning from hard floors to deep pile carpets.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup: A generous 2.6L capacity means less frequent emptying, allowing for extended cleaning sessions.
- ✓ Excellent for Pet Hair: Designed to effectively pick up stubborn pet hair from all surfaces.
Why We Recommend It
For those prioritizing affordability without compromising on significant cleaning power, the Eureka PowerSpeed is an unbeatable option. Its adjustable height settings and large dust cup are features often found in more expensive models, making it a truly exceptional value for a cheap vacuum for carpet. It handles common household messes, including pet hair, with remarkable efficiency.
Best For
An excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals or families who need a versatile vacuum capable of handling both carpet and hard floor cleaning, including pet hair, efficiently and affordably.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding suction power for its low price.
- Lightweight build enhances maneuverability and reduces fatigue.
- Adjustable height settings for optimal cleaning on different surfaces.
- Large dust cup minimizes interruptions for emptying.
Cons:
- Some users might find it a bit noisy during operation.
- Plastic construction might not feel as premium as higher-end models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My previous vacuum was by a very popular brand, and it was expensive. It had every feature that you could imagine and worked as an upright, canister, and handheld unit. I had it for years and hated it. Why? Because it was very heavy, unwieldy, and bulky. None of the accessories were mounted on the”
Customer Review: “I am close to 80 years old and I have had about every brand of vacuum on the market. My last vacuum weight 16 lb. and was hard to manuver. I saw this Eureka power speed model NEU180D which was 10 lb. and said it had great suction, with a turbo brush. I am so glad I got it. I have 3 large bird cages “
4. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet, Hard Floor, and Pets.
Another strong contender from Eureka, the PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner delivers reliable performance for anyone seeking a cheap vacuum for carpet that also handles hard floors and pet hair. This model is engineered to provide powerful suction in a remarkably light package, ensuring that cleaning your home is effective and less strenuous. It’s a versatile option for diverse cleaning needs.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight Yet Powerful: Weighing just 10 pounds, it offers heavyweight cleaning capabilities without the bulk.
- ✓ Strong Suction Across Surfaces: A 960-watt motor provides consistent, powerful suction across hardwood, tile, and various carpet types.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup: Its 2.6-liter capacity means fewer interruptions for emptying, and the flip-to-empty design is quick and mess-free.
- ✓ Effective Pet Hair Pickup: Designed to efficiently clean up pet hair, making it a great choice for pet owners.
Why We Recommend It
This Eureka PowerSpeed model is highly recommended for its impressive balance of power, lightweight design, and excellent value. It’s truly a workhorse, tackling everything from fine dust to stubborn pet hair on both carpets and hard floors. The large dust cup and bagless operation are significant conveniences, making it a top pick among cheap vacuums for carpet.
Best For
Perfect for households with a mix of floor types and pets, where a lightweight and powerful bagless vacuum is needed for routine cleaning without a high cost.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power for deep carpet cleaning.
- Remarkably lightweight, making it easy to carry and maneuver.
- Large dust cup reduces the frequency of emptying.
- Bagless design is convenient and cost-effective.
Cons:
- May struggle with extremely plush or high-pile carpets.
- Noise level can be noticeable during extended use.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My previous vacuum was by a very popular brand, and it was expensive. It had every feature that you could imagine and worked as an upright, canister, and handheld unit. I had it for years and hated it. Why? Because it was very heavy, unwieldy, and bulky. None of the accessories were mounted on the”
Customer Review: “I am close to 80 years old and I have had about every brand of vacuum on the market. My last vacuum weight 16 lb. and was hard to manuver. I saw this Eureka power speed model NEU180D which was 10 lb. and said it had great suction, with a turbo brush. I am so glad I got it. I have 3 large bird cages “
5. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Ideal for Carpets and Pet Hair.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a highly versatile and effective option for those seeking a cheap vacuum for carpet that also provides advanced filtration. Its unique Lift-Away feature allows you to detach the canister for portable cleaning, making it easy to tackle stairs, upholstery, and other above-floor areas. Combined with a HEPA filter, this vacuum is a strong choice for homes with allergy sufferers and pets.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for convenient portable cleaning of stairs and above-floor areas.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum with a HEPA filter for cleaner air.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Easily switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor vacuuming.
- ✓ Excellent for Pet Hair: Designed with powerful suction and a brushroll to effectively pick up pet hair.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away for its exceptional versatility and allergy-friendly features, all within a reasonable price range. The ability to switch between an upright and a portable canister makes it incredibly adaptable to various cleaning tasks. Its HEPA filtration system is a significant advantage for maintaining a healthier home environment, especially for a cheap vacuum for carpet.
Best For
This vacuum is best for pet owners and allergy sufferers living in homes with both carpets and hard floors, who need a versatile and efficient cleaning solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lift-Away feature offers great flexibility for all types of cleaning.
- HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Seal are excellent for air quality.
- Strong suction power tackles embedded dirt in carpets.
- Brushroll shutoff protects hard floors from scratches.
Cons:
- Can be a bit top-heavy in upright mode compared to lighter models.
- Hose length might be limited for very high reach tasks in lift-away mode.
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: “Definitely get this vacuum. I have a 1bd apartment that is 80% carpet and it works great. I am sure there are better vacuums out there but this vacuum will get a very good amount of your animals hair and dirt out of the carpet. The brush on it definitely works great however longer hair does get tan”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cheap Vacuum For Carpet
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best cheap vacuum for carpet, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry, we’ve broken down the key factors we considered to help you make an informed decision. First and foremost, suction power is crucial, especially for carpets where dirt and debris can get deeply embedded. We looked for vacuums that could effectively lift these particles, leaving your carpets truly clean.
Next, versatility played a big role. Many homes have a mix of carpeted and hard floor areas, so a vacuum that can handle both, ideally with adjustable settings, is a huge bonus. Weight and maneuverability are also paramount; a lightweight vacuum makes cleaning less of a chore and easier to carry up stairs. For pet owners, specialized features like brush rolls designed to tackle pet hair and HEPA filtration for allergens were high on our list. Lastly, we focused on ease of maintenance, prioritizing bagless designs and simple filter cleaning processes to keep long-term costs and effort down.
Budget Planning
The term “cheap” can mean different things to different people, but when it comes to vacuums, we typically consider models under $150–$200 to be in the budget-friendly category. It’s important to remember that a lower price doesn’t always mean lower quality. Many brands offer fantastic entry-level or mid-range vacuums that perform exceptionally well for everyday cleaning tasks. When planning your budget, think about what features are non-negotiable for your home. Do you absolutely need pet hair tools? Is bagless a must? By prioritizing, you can often find a great vacuum that fits your financial comfort zone without feeling like you’ve compromised too much on performance. Remember to also factor in the ongoing costs like filters or bags, though many of our top picks are bagless to save you money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best cheap vacuum for carpet ultimately comes down to your specific needs and priorities. We hope this guide has shed some light on the excellent options available that prove you don’t need to spend a fortune for a clean home. From tackling stubborn pet hair to providing versatile multi-surface cleaning, these budget-friendly vacuums are ready to impress. A little research goes a long way in finding that perfect balance of affordability, power, and convenience for your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a cheap vacuum truly clean carpets effectively?
A: Absolutely! Many budget-friendly vacuums, especially modern upright or stick models, offer powerful suction and effective brush rolls designed specifically to agitate and lift dirt from carpet fibers. While they might lack some advanced features of premium models, they are highly capable for routine and even deep cleaning.
Q: Are bagless vacuums better than bagged for carpet?
A: For a cheap vacuum for carpet, bagless models often offer more convenience and lower ongoing costs since you don’t need to buy replacement bags. They typically have clear bins, so you can easily see when they need emptying. Performance-wise, both types can be effective on carpets, but bagless models are generally favored for their ease of maintenance.
Q: What features should I look for if I have pets and want a cheap carpet vacuum?
A: If you have pets, prioritize vacuums with a strong brush roll (often called a turbo brush or power brush), strong suction, and ideally specialized pet tools. Many budget vacuums now include these features. Look for options with good filtration, like a HEPA filter, to help trap pet dander and allergens.
Q: Are lightweight cheap vacuums powerful enough for carpets?
A: Yes, many lightweight vacuums are surprisingly powerful for carpets. Advances in motor technology mean smaller, lighter vacuums can still generate significant suction. Their portability is a huge advantage, making it easier to clean large carpeted areas and move between rooms or floors without strain.
Q: How often should I empty the dust cup on a cheap bagless carpet vacuum?
A: It’s best to empty the dust cup after each significant use, especially when vacuuming carpets. This maintains optimal suction power and prevents debris from building up, which can strain the motor. If you have pets or a large carpeted area, you might need to empty it even more frequently.
There you have it – our top picks for the best cheap vacuum for carpet, along with a comprehensive guide to help you choose wisely. We hope this article has provided you with the insights you need to find a vacuum that not only fits your budget but also keeps your carpets spotless and your home clean. Don’t let a tight budget stop you from enjoying a pristine living space. Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to explore these amazing options and bring home the perfect cleaning companion today!
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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.
