Best vacuum cleaner for carpet – 10 top models tested 2025

Let’s be real, finding the best vacuum cleaner for carpet can feel like a quest, right? I’ve been there, staring at countless models, wondering which one will actually pull all that embedded dirt and pet hair out of my plush rugs. My own carpets have seen their fair share of vacuum testing, from stubborn pet dander to spilled cereal, and I know the frustration of a machine that just doesn’t cut it. That’s why I put together this guide – I’ve delved into some of the most popular and highly-rated vacuums on the market, checking out their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed choice. Whether you’re dealing with thick shag, delicate area rugs, or just everyday carpet traffic, you’ll find an option here that’s truly up to the task. Let’s dig into what makes a vacuum cleaner a true champion on carpeted surfaces.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large…	View on Amazon
	BISSELL TurboClean, Upright Carpet Cleaner, Pro Max Clean &…	View on Amazon
	Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…	View on Amazon
	Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…	View on Amazon
	Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet…	View on Amazon
	Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…	View on Amazon

Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large…

This Shark Navigator is a real workhorse when it comes to tackling carpeted floors. I’ve found it incredibly versatile for both deep cleaning and those quick everyday pickups. What I particularly love is its Lift-Away functionality, which essentially turns it into a portable canister vacuum. This makes cleaning stairs, upholstery, or even under tricky furniture so much easier than dragging a full upright around. It really delivers powerful suction that gets deep into carpet fibers, making short work of dirt and debris.

Key features that stand out:
* POWERFUL SUCTION: Deep-cleans carpets and handles bare floors with multi-surface capability.
* LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for versatile cleaning under furniture and above-floor areas.
* ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Combined with a HEPA filter, it traps dust and allergens inside.
* PERFECT FOR PETS: Comes with powerful attachments specifically for picking up pet hair.
* SWIVEL STEERING: Allows for easy maneuvering around obstacles and into tight spaces.
* BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floor cleaning.

Pros:
* Excellent suction power for deep carpet cleaning
* Versatile Lift-Away feature for various cleaning tasks
* Great for allergy sufferers with its sealed system and HEPA filter
* Maneuvers easily with swivel steering

Cons:
* It can feel a bit heavy when used as a full upright.

Best for: Homes with a mix of carpet and hard floors, pet owners, and allergy sufferers needing powerful, versatile cleaning.

Expert Opinion: This vacuum is a fantastic all-rounder, offering powerful cleaning for carpets while providing the flexibility of a detachable canister for other areas. Its pet-focused features and allergen sealing make it a top contender for household use.

BISSELL TurboClean, Upright Carpet Cleaner, Pro Max Clean &…

When it comes to refreshing carpets that vacuums alone can’t quite revive, the BISSELL TurboClean stands out. This isn’t just a vacuum; it’s a dedicated carpet cleaner, and I’ve seen it bring life back to dull, stained carpets. It’s incredibly effective on tough everyday & pet messes, truly getting to the ground-in dirt. Its compact & lightweight design means it’s not a struggle to pull out for those targeted clean-ups or to store away in a small closet.

Key features that stand out:
* OUTCLEANS COMPETITIVE LIGHTWEIGHT CARPET CLEANER: Designed to tackle tough everyday and pet messes on carpet and area rugs.
* 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH: Combined with powerful suction, it removes ground-in dirt and stains.
* COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT: Simple to store and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
* PRO MAX CLEAN + PROTECT: Can be paired with powerful formulas that include StainProtect Technology.

Pros:
* Exceptional at removing ground-in dirt and stains from carpets
* Lightweight and easy to store, perfect for smaller homes
* Great for pet owners dealing with frequent accidents
* Supports pet charities with every purchase

Cons:
* This is a carpet cleaner, not a dry vacuum, so it’s a different tool.

Best for: Pet owners and anyone needing to deep clean and refresh carpeted areas, especially in smaller spaces or for spot cleaning.

Expert Opinion: This Bissell unit isn’t a traditional vacuum but an essential tool for maintaining truly clean carpets. Its ability to lift embedded dirt and stains makes it an excellent companion to any dry vacuum, particularly if you have pets or high-traffic areas.

Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…

The Bissell CleanView Compact really impressed me with its surprising power given its diminutive size. If you’re living in a smaller apartment, a dorm, or just need something easy to grab for quick cleans, this is a fantastic option for your carpet. Despite being lightweight and maneuverable at less than 8 pounds, it doesn’t skimp on powerful suction. It also boasts Scatter-Free Technology, which is a godsend if you have hard floors mixed with carpets, as it prevents debris from scattering around.

Key features that stand out:
* SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Effectively captures messes on hard floors with less scattering.
* POWERFUL SUCTION: Provides convenient and powerful cleaning in a compact machine.
* LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE: Weighs less than 8 pounds, making it incredibly easy to transport.
* EASY EMPTY DIRT CONTAINER: Dispose of debris with a simple push of a button.

Pros:
* Extremely lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for multi-level homes or small spaces
* Strong suction for its size, effective on carpets
* Scatter-Free Technology works well on different floor types
* Easy-to-empty dirt container

Cons:
* Its compact size means a smaller dust bin capacity than larger uprights.

Best for: Small apartments, dorms, quick clean-ups, or anyone needing a lightweight, easy-to-store vacuum that still handles carpets well.

Expert Opinion: This compact Bissell model punches above its weight. It’s an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability and ease of use without sacrificing effective carpet cleaning for everyday messes.

Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

The Eureka PowerSpeed is a true budget-friendly champion that doesn’t compromise on carpet cleaning ability. I was genuinely surprised by how much dirt it pulled out of my carpets, thanks to its upgraded Cyclone System and powerful pick-up. What’s even better is that it’s lightweight, making it easy to push around, and the 5 height settings mean you can optimize it for everything from low-pile rugs to thicker shag carpet without damaging the fibers or losing suction.

Key features that stand out:
* Upgraded Cyclone System: Handles larger debris, smaller dirt, and microscopic dust effectively.
* Powerful pick-up: Penetrates deep into the carpet to extract embedded dirt, dust, and debris.
* Lightweight: Easy to maneuver and carry around the house.
* 5 Height Settings: Adapts to various carpet types, shag rugs, and hard floors.
* Multiple accessories included: Onboard tools for above-floor cleaning and hard-to-reach areas.

Pros:
* Excellent suction for embedded dirt in carpets
* Very lightweight and easy to push
* Adjustable height settings make it versatile for different carpet types
* Comes with useful onboard accessories

Cons:
* The overall build feels a bit less robust compared to premium models.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers, homes with various carpet types, and those who need a powerful yet lightweight best vacuum cleaner for carpet for everyday use.

Expert Opinion: For its price point, the Eureka PowerSpeed delivers impressive performance on carpets. It’s a no-frills, effective vacuum that prioritizes strong suction and versatility across different carpet piles.

Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…

This Bissell CleanView Swivel is a fantastic choice for homes with pets, especially if you have a mix of carpet and hard floors. I’ve found its Swivel Steering for maximum maneuverability incredibly helpful for navigating around furniture, and the Triple Action Brush Roll is a beast at lifting embedded pet hair from carpets. It truly lives up to its claim of Edge-to-Edge Cleaning, meaning no more annoying lines of pet hair along baseboards.

Key features that stand out:
* SWIVEL STEERING FOR MAXIMUM MANEUVERABILITY: Makes cleaning around obstacles effortless.
* TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL: Loosens, lifts, and removes embedded pet hair from carpets.
* MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING WITH SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Prevents scatter of dry pet messes on hard surfaces.
* EDGE-TO-EDGE CLEANING: Effectively cleans dirt and debris along edges and in corners.

Pros:
* Exceptional at removing pet hair from carpets
* Swivel steering makes it easy to navigate around furniture
* Effective on multiple surfaces, including hard floors
* Edge-to-edge cleaning ensures thoroughness

Cons:
* The dust cup could be larger for homes with multiple pets.

Best for: Pet owners with carpeted homes, those who appreciate easy maneuverability, and anyone needing powerful pet hair removal.

Expert Opinion: The Bissell CleanView Swivel is specifically engineered for pet-heavy households. Its specialized brush roll and swivel steering make tackling pet hair on carpets and hard floors surprisingly efficient.

Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…

The Eureka NEU10AE5 is another excellent, lightweight option that surprised me with its powerful all floor suction. It transitions effortlessly between hard floors and carpets, making it a versatile choice for many homes. Weighing in at only 7.7 pounds, it’s remarkably easy to carry upstairs or from room to room. I appreciate that it’s also easy to maintain with washable filters, saving on long-term costs.

Key features that stand out:
* POWERFUL ALL FLOOR SUCTION: Extracts dirt and hair from both hard floors and carpets with ease.
* QUICK RELEASE HANDLE FOR ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING: Allows for easy attachment of tools for cleaning upholstery and hard-to-reach places.
* LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY STORAGE: Weighs only 7.7 pounds, making it portable and easy to store.
* EASY MAINTENANCE & ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY: Features washable filters for no maintenance costs and eco-friendly cleaning.

Pros:
* Extremely lightweight and portable
* Strong suction performance on both carpets and hard floors
* Washable filters reduce ongoing costs
* Onboard tools provide convenient above-floor cleaning

Cons:
* The smaller dust capacity means more frequent emptying.

Best for: People seeking a very lightweight, easy-to-use, and budget-friendly vacuum with good carpet performance, especially for smaller homes or quick clean-ups.

Expert Opinion: This Eureka model is a fantastic example of powerful cleaning in a compact, lightweight package. It’s particularly appealing for its ease of use and maintenance, making it a smart choice for everyday carpet cleaning.

Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

Here’s another great PowerSpeed from Eureka, building on the success of the previous model with a few key enhancements. This vacuum truly delivers lightweight yet powerful performance – at just 10 pounds, you get impressive cleaning power without the strain. The strong suction across surfaces is evident, making it great for various carpet types, and the extra-large dust cup means you can clean for longer without stopping to empty. It also includes several pet-ready attachments onboard, which is a huge bonus for animal lovers.

Key features that stand out:
* Lightweight Yet Powerful: Delivers heavyweight cleaning performance in an ultra-light upright.
* Strong Suction Across Surfaces: Consistent suction across hardwood, tile, area rugs, and wall-to-wall carpeting.
* Extra-Large Dust Cup for Fewer Empties: 2.6-liter capacity keeps cleaning sessions uninterrupted.
* 5-Height Brush Roll Adjustment: Precision cleaning on thick carpet or bare floors.
* Pet-Ready Attachments Onboard: Includes a Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, and dusting brush for complete home coverage.

Pros:
* Excellent balance of lightweight design and powerful suction
* Large dust cup reduces emptying frequency
* Versatile with 5 height adjustments for various carpet types
* Comes with dedicated pet attachments for thorough cleaning

Cons:
* The cord length might be a bit short for very large rooms.

Best for: Homes with mixed flooring and pets, where a powerful, lightweight, and versatile vacuum with a larger dust capacity is needed for effective carpet cleaning.

Expert Opinion: This iteration of the Eureka PowerSpeed really shines as a best vacuum cleaner for carpet for pet owners. The combination of strong suction, large capacity, and specialized pet tools in a lightweight design makes it a top contender for managing pet hair and general carpet debris.

Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…

The Shark NV752 Rotator is truly a premium cleaning machine, and it feels like it’s designed with serious carpet cleaning and pet owners in mind. The 2-in-1 Powered Lift-Away Technology is a standout feature, allowing you to clean under furniture while the brush roll continues to spin, maintaining consistent suction. I also love the LED Headlights – they illuminate hidden pet hair and dust on carpets that I would otherwise miss. This vacuum also comes with a fantastic self-cleaning Pet Power Brush that really works wonders on upholstery and carpeted stairs.

Key features that stand out:
* 2-IN-1 POWERED LIFT-AWAY TECHNOLOGY: Detachable pod with a continuously spinning brush roll for deep cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
* ADVANCED SWIVEL STEERING: Ensures easy maneuverability around obstacles.
* ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: With a HEPA filter, it traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
* LED HEADLIGHTS: Illuminates hidden debris and pet hair for thorough cleaning.
* MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Fingertip controls for easy switching between hard floor and carpet modes.
* PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes a self-cleaning Pet Power Brush for efficient pet hair removal.

Pros:
* Exceptional suction and deep cleaning on carpets, especially for pet hair
* Powered Lift-Away feature provides unmatched versatility
* Excellent for allergy sufferers with its sealed system and HEPA filter
* LED headlights reveal hidden dirt, ensuring thoroughness
* Specialized pet tools are highly effective

Cons:
* It’s on the heavier side as a full upright vacuum.

Best for: Pet owners, allergy sufferers, and anyone looking for a high-performance, versatile best vacuum cleaner for carpet with advanced features for deep and thorough cleaning.

Expert Opinion: The Shark NV752 is a powerhouse for carpet cleaning, particularly in homes with pets and allergy concerns. Its advanced features, like the powered lift-away and LED headlights, justify its position as a top-tier upright for comprehensive cleaning.

Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet…

Just like the Bissell TurboClean, the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe is a dedicated carpet cleaner, and it’s fantastic for rejuvenating tired, stained carpets. I’ve used this to tackle some serious embedded dirt and spills, and its five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes really get down into the carpet fibers. The HeatForce faster drying feature is a real bonus, cutting down the wait time significantly. Plus, the versatile tools mean you can use it beyond just the main carpet, hitting upholstery and pet messes with precision.

Key features that stand out:
* THE COMPLETE CLEAN COMBO: Combines five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes and HeatForce for tough stain removal and faster drying.
* VERSATILE TOOLS: Includes pet tool, upholstery tool, and crevice tool for comprehensive deep cleaning.
* DUAL TANK TECHNOLOGY: Separate tanks for clean and dirty water make filling and emptying easy.
* AUTO MIX: Automatically mixes and dispenses solution for optimal carpet washing.

Pros:
* Exceptional deep cleaning power for carpets and tough stains
* HeatForce technology speeds up drying time
* Comes with specialized tools for upholstery and pet messes
* Dual tank system is convenient and hygienic

Cons:
* It is a carpet cleaner and not a dry vacuum, so it serves a different purpose.

Best for: Homes needing periodic deep cleaning of carpets, especially those with pets, children, or high-traffic areas prone to stains.

Expert Opinion: The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe is an indispensable machine for true carpet rejuvenation. Its powerful scrubbing action and quick-drying capabilities make it a strong contender for anyone serious about maintaining impeccably clean, fresh carpets.

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…

The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off is a highly specialized vacuum designed with pet owners and allergy sufferers firmly in mind. The powerful suction and Tangle-Free Brush Roll are a dream come true for anyone constantly battling pet hair – I’ve found it truly cuts down on frustrating hair wrap. Its HEPA Sealed Allergen System is also a major plus, ensuring that allergens stay trapped inside the vacuum, not recirculating in your home. The Lift-Off Detachable Pod provides excellent versatility for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

Key features that stand out:
* POWERFUL SUCTION: Effectively tackles dirt, fur, and dust.
* LIFT-OFF DETACHABLE POD: Lightweight canister and quick-release wand for convenient cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.
* HEPA SEALED ALLERGEN SYSTEM: Captures dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
* TANGLE-FREE BRUSH ROLL: Designed to prevent hair wrap, making it ideal for pet owners.
* SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Strong suction and technology prevent messes from scattering on hard floors.
* XL TANK CAPACITY: 1L Easy Empty dirt tank for fewer interruptions.

Pros:
* Exceptional at picking up pet hair without tangling the brush roll
* HEPA sealed system is excellent for allergy sufferers
* Lift-Off pod offers versatile above-floor cleaning
* Good suction on both carpets and hard floors

Cons:
* It can be a bit bulkier than some other lightweight uprights.

Best for: Pet owners, especially those with long-haired pets or multiple animals, and individuals with allergies who need a powerful, specialized best vacuum cleaner for carpet to manage pet dander and hair.

Expert Opinion: This Bissell Pet Hair Eraser model is a highly effective, purpose-built vacuum for dealing with the unique challenges of pet hair and allergens on carpets. The tangle-free brush roll alone makes it a game-changer for many pet owners.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best vacuum cleaner for carpet, you’ll notice a few key distinctions among these top models.

For sheer power and versatility, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe and the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet really stand out. Both offer the fantastic Lift-Away functionality, allowing you to tackle upholstery and stairs with ease, but the NV752 steps it up with powered lift-away and specialized pet tools, making it the premium choice for pet owners and those needing advanced features like LED headlights. If you’re an allergy sufferer, both Sharks also boast Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with HEPA filters, a crucial feature for keeping your air cleaner.

If pet hair is your absolute main concern, then Bissell has some fantastic dedicated options. The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel is a powerful upright with a Triple Action Brush Roll specifically designed to lift embedded pet hair, and its swivel steering makes navigating around furniture a breeze. The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off takes it a step further with its Tangle-Free Brush Roll and HEPA Sealed Allergen System, making it an outstanding choice for homes with a lot of pet fur and allergy sensitivities.

For those on a tighter budget but still needing strong carpet cleaning, the Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner (both the original and the upgraded version) and the Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright offer surprising performance. These Eurekas provide powerful suction and adjustable height settings, making them versatile for different carpet types without breaking the bank. The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright is also a great lightweight, budget-friendly option, especially for smaller spaces where easy maneuverability is key.

Finally, it’s crucial to remember that the BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner and the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine are not dry vacuums. These are dedicated carpet cleaners designed for deep cleaning, stain removal, and refreshing your carpets. While a vacuum removes loose dirt, these machines wash and extract embedded grime, making them essential complements to your dry vacuum for a truly pristine carpet. If your carpets are looking dull or stained, one of these wet cleaners is what you’ll need in addition to your regular vacuum.

Final Verdict

Deciding on the best vacuum cleaner for carpet really boils down to your specific needs and priorities. After looking at all these fantastic options, here’s my take:

If you’re looking for the most comprehensive solution for pet owners and allergy sufferers who want top-tier performance on both carpets and hard floors, the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet is simply outstanding. Its versatility, powerful suction, and specialized pet tools make it hard to beat.

For those seeking an excellent balance of power, versatility, and value without the premium price tag, the Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a fantastic choice. It delivers strong carpet cleaning with the added benefit of the Lift-Away feature.

If pet hair is your absolute nemesis and you want a vacuum specifically designed to conquer it, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with its tangle-free brush roll and HEPA seal is a phenomenal, purpose-built machine.

For the budget-conscious shopper who still needs reliable carpet cleaning, the Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner (either version) offers remarkable suction and versatility for its price. It’s a solid workhorse for everyday messes.

And finally, if your carpets are looking tired, stained, or simply need a refresh beyond what a dry vacuum can offer, investing in a dedicated carpet cleaner like the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe or the BISSELL TurboClean will make a world of difference. They’re not replacements for your vacuum, but powerful allies in maintaining truly clean carpets.

No matter your household’s unique challenges, there’s definitely a vacuum here that will make your carpets look and feel cleaner than ever.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What features should I look for in the best vacuum cleaner for carpet?
A: For carpets, look for strong suction power, a motorized brush roll (often called a beater bar or brush bar) to agitate carpet fibers and lift embedded dirt, and adjustable height settings to accommodate different carpet pile lengths. Features like HEPA filtration and a sealed system are also crucial for allergy sufferers, while specialized pet tools are a must for pet owners seeking the best vacuum cleaner for carpet that handles fur.

Q2: Is a bagless or bagged vacuum better for carpets?
A: Both bagless and bagged vacuums can be effective on carpets. Bagless vacuums (like most reviewed here) offer convenience and save money on bags, but emptying the dustbin can release dust back into the air, which might be an issue for allergy sufferers. Bagged vacuums typically offer better allergen containment as dust is sealed away in the bag. Your choice depends on your priorities regarding convenience, cost, and allergy concerns.

Q3: How often should I vacuum my carpets?
A: It’s generally recommended to vacuum carpets at least once a week for light traffic areas. For high-traffic areas, homes with pets, children, or allergy sufferers, vacuuming 2-3 times a week or even daily can be beneficial. Regular vacuuming with the best vacuum cleaner for carpet helps prevent dirt from embedding deep into the fibers, extending your carpet’s life.

Q4: Can upright vacuums work on all carpet types, including thick pile or shag?
A: Many upright vacuums, especially those with adjustable brush roll height settings (like the Eureka PowerSpeed models), are designed to work on various carpet types. For thick pile or shag carpets, it’s crucial to use a setting that allows the brush roll to glide over the carpet without getting bogged down or damaging the fibers. Some vacuums also feature a brush roll shutoff for delicate rugs.

Q5: What’s the difference between a vacuum cleaner and a carpet cleaner?
A: A vacuum cleaner (like the Shark or Eureka models) uses suction and a brush roll to remove dry dirt, dust, and debris from carpets. A carpet cleaner (like the Bissell TurboClean or Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe) uses water and cleaning solution to wash, scrub, and extract stains and deeply embedded grime from carpets, similar to a washing machine for your floors. They serve different but complementary purposes for the best vacuum cleaner for carpet maintenance.

Q6: What does “Lift-Away” functionality mean and how is it useful for carpet cleaning?
A: “Lift-Away” functionality (found in Shark and Bissell models) allows you to detach the main canister or pod from the upright vacuum’s base. This transforms the heavy upright into a lighter, portable canister or handheld unit. It’s incredibly useful for cleaning carpeted stairs, upholstery, under low-lying furniture, and other hard-to-reach areas where a full upright would be cumbersome. It means you can tackle all types of carpeted surfaces with one machine.