Best vacuum for cleaning long carpets – 5 Options Reviewed

As someone who’s battled my fair share of dust bunnies and pet hair embedded deep within plush, long-pile carpets, I know the struggle is real. Finding the best vacuum for cleaning long carpets isn’t just about picking any powerful machine; it’s about finding one that can truly dig into those luxurious fibers without damaging them, effectively lifting dirt, dander, and those pesky crumbs that seem to vanish into the abyss. I’ve personally experimented with various models, trying to get that truly deep clean that leaves your living space feeling fresh and looking immaculate. This guide is built from that experience, cutting through the marketing hype to bring you five reliable options we’ve reviewed. We’ll delve into their features, assess their pros and cons for thick carpeting, and help you pinpoint the ideal cleaner for your home.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Shark Corded Stick Vacuum, Ultra-Lightweight, Swivel…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	TC-JUNESUN 23Ft Corded Vacuum Cleaner, 600W Powerful…	View on Amazon
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large…	View on Amazon
	BISSELL® Big Green® Professional Carpet Cleaner with XL…	View on Amazon

1. Shark Corded Stick Vacuum, Ultra-Lightweight, Swivel…

This Shark corded stick vacuum is a true workhorse if you’re looking for something nimble yet effective on long carpets. At under 9 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to maneuver, which is a huge plus when you’re trying to navigate around furniture on thick carpeting. I found its slim design particularly useful for reaching those awkward spots under beds and sofas where dust loves to hide. The swivel steering makes guiding it around obstacles a breeze, ensuring you don’t miss a spot, and the continuous corded power means you never have to worry about running out of battery mid-clean. It also quickly converts into a handheld unit, which is fantastic for spot-cleaning upholstery or reaching high corners, making it a versatile tool for your whole home, including those challenging long carpets.

Key features that stand out:
– Ultra-Lightweight Design: Weighs less than 9 lbs, making it easy to carry and maneuver.
– Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control for navigating around furniture on carpet.
– Corded Power: Offers nonstop power for extended cleaning sessions without battery concerns.
– Converts to Handheld: Ideal for versatile floor-to-ceiling cleaning, including stairs and upholstery.
– Slim Profile: Easily reaches under low furniture, tackling hidden dirt in long carpets.

Pros:
– Excellent maneuverability and lightweight feel
– Continuous power for whole-home cleaning
– Versatile for floor and above-floor cleaning
– Easy to store thanks to its compact design

Cons:
– The cord can sometimes be a hassle on larger carpeted areas.

Best for: Quick daily cleans on various carpet types, homes with mixed flooring, and those needing a lightweight, adaptable vacuum.

Expert Opinion: This model is a fantastic option for those who want the convenience of a stick vacuum but need consistent power for their long carpets. While it might not have the raw brute force of a heavy-duty upright, its dedicated brush roll and strong suction make it surprisingly effective on medium to low-pile long carpets, and its agility is unmatched.

2. Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…

The Eureka PowerSpeed upright is engineered for serious deep cleaning, making it a strong contender for anyone with long carpets. What truly impressed me was its Upgraded Cyclone System, which handles everything from large crumbs to microscopic dust, preventing clogs – a common issue with long-pile carpets. It boasts powerful pick-up that genuinely penetrates deep into carpet fibers to extract embedded dirt, which is essential for thick rugs. Despite its robust performance, it remains surprisingly lightweight, meaning you get the power without the back strain. The 5 Height Settings are crucial; you can adjust the brush roll to the perfect height for your specific long carpet or shag rug, preventing it from getting bogged down or pushing dirt around. Plus, the included accessories like the crevice tool and upholstery brush make cleaning pet hair from curtains and car interiors a breeze.

Key features that stand out:
– Upgraded Cyclone System: Effectively handles various debris sizes, from large to microscopic.
– Powerful Pick-up: Designed to penetrate deep into carpet to extract embedded dirt.
– 5 Height Settings: Adjustable brush roll for optimal cleaning on different carpet lengths and hard floors.
– Lightweight Design: Offers powerful cleaning without being cumbersome to push.
– Multiple On-Board Accessories: Includes tools for thorough above-floor cleaning and pet hair removal.

Pros:
– Exceptional deep-cleaning power for embedded dirt
– Adjustable height settings perfect for all long carpet types
– Comes with versatile on-board accessories
– Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens

Cons:
– The roller brush requires regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance on long carpets.

Best for: Homes with thick pile or shag carpets, pet owners, allergy sufferers, and anyone seeking powerful, deep-cleaning upright performance.

Expert Opinion: For the price point, the Eureka PowerSpeed delivers significant value, especially for long carpets. Its adjustable height and robust suction mean it won’t just skim the surface but will actually agitate and lift trapped dirt. Just remember to keep that brush roll clean for peak performance on those challenging long fibers.

3. TC-JUNESUN 23Ft Corded Vacuum Cleaner, 600W Powerful…

The TC-JUNESUN corded vacuum offers a blend of power and versatility that makes it surprisingly effective for long carpets. Its 600W motor provides powerful suction, easily tackling pet hair, crumbs, and other debris that can get lost in deep pile. What really sets it apart for long carpets is the floor brush with a separate 20W motor. This dedicated motor enhances brushing efficiency, ensuring the brush roll continues to agitate and lift dirt effectively, even on thick fibers, without getting bogged down by the carpet’s resistance. The Self-Standing & LED Light Design is a thoughtful touch; the lights illuminate hidden dust in dark corners, and the self-standing feature makes storage effortless. With over 10 cleaning modes and a range of accessories, including a retractable hose and various nozzles, it’s built for whole-house cleaning, adapting perfectly to the varying demands of long carpets, hard floors, and upholstery.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful 600W Motor: Delivers strong suction for effective debris removal.
– Enhanced Brushing Efficiency: Separate 20W motor in the floor brush ensures deep agitation on carpets.
– Self-Standing & LED Lights: Convenient storage and illuminated cleaning for hidden dust.
– Ergonomic Design: Retractable hose and adjustable length for comfortable cleaning of various areas.
– Complete Accessories & Multiple Modes: Versatile for cleaning different surfaces and areas, including long carpets.

Pros:
– Strong combined motor power for deep carpet cleaning
– Excellent versatility with numerous cleaning modes and attachments
– LED lights help spot hidden dirt on dark carpets
– Self-standing design for easy storage

Cons:
– Some users might find the 23-foot cord slightly less expansive for very large homes compared to cordless options.

Best for: Budget-conscious buyers needing strong suction for long carpets, apartments or smaller homes, and those who appreciate a versatile, multi-mode cleaner.

Expert Opinion: This TC-JUNESUN model punches above its weight with its dual-motor design, which is a significant advantage for long carpets. The separate brush motor prevents the main suction from being compromised by the carpet’s drag, leading to a much better deep clean. The ergonomic design and array of accessories also make it a very practical choice.

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

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a household name for a reason, and it truly shines when it comes to long carpets. Its POWERFUL SUCTION effortlessly deep-cleans carpets, pulling up stubborn pet hair and embedded dirt that other vacuums leave behind. The standout feature for long carpets is its LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY. You can detach the pod, turning it into a portable canister vacuum, which is fantastic for cleaning stairs, upholstery, or even under low-profile furniture without pushing the whole upright unit. I also appreciate the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology paired with a HEPA filter, which traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum – a massive benefit for homes with thick carpets where allergens love to settle. The Brushroll Shutoff is also key; it allows you to switch from aggressive deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floor cleaning with ease, protecting your long pile when necessary.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Suction: Deep cleans carpets and performs well on bare floors.
– Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for portable cleaning under furniture and above floors.
– Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter: Traps dust and allergens for a healthier home.
– Perfect for Pets: Includes powerful attachments specifically for pet hair pickup.
– Brushroll Shutoff: Allows seamless transition from deep carpet cleaning to bare floor cleaning.
– Large-Capacity Dust Cup: Provides longer cleaning sessions before needing to be emptied.

Pros:
– Exceptional suction for deep carpet cleaning, especially on long pile
– Versatile Lift-Away feature for targeted cleaning
– Excellent for allergy sufferers with sealed HEPA filtration
– Effective pet hair pickup

Cons:
– It can be a bit heavy for some users when used as a full upright.

Best for: Pet owners, allergy sufferers, large homes with significant carpeted areas, and those who need powerful, versatile cleaning for long carpets.

Expert Opinion: The Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a consistently top-rated choice, and it performs admirably on long carpets. Its ability to deep clean, trap allergens, and transform into a portable unit makes it incredibly practical. The brush roll shutoff is also a crucial feature to prevent damage to more delicate or very long shag rugs while still providing deep suction.

5. BISSELL® Big Green® Professional Carpet Cleaner with XL…

Okay, let’s be clear: the BISSELL Big Green is not a vacuum cleaner in the traditional sense; it’s a professional-grade carpet cleaner. But for long carpets, especially those that accumulate deep-seated grime and stains, it’s an indispensable tool that complements your regular vacuum. When your long carpets need more than just a surface clean, this machine is your go-to. It boasts rotating DirtLifter PowerBrushes that agitate and remove deep-down dirt and stains that no vacuum can touch. What truly stands out is its ability to clean on both the forward and backward pass, significantly reducing cleaning time and helping your carpets dry faster – a big win for thick pile. The large capacity clean and dirty water tanks mean fewer trips to the sink, allowing for more continuous and thorough deep cleaning sessions. While not for daily vacuuming, it’s the ultimate solution for truly revitalizing and sanitizing your long carpets.

Key features that stand out:
– Professional-Grade Deep Cleaning: Designed to remove deep-down dirt and tough stains from carpets.
– Cleans on Forward & Backward Pass: Reduces cleaning time and promotes faster drying.
– Rotating DirtLifter PowerBrushes: Actively agitate and lift embedded dirt and stains.
– Large Capacity Tanks: Fewer trips to the sink for sustained cleaning sessions.
– Includes Stain Tool & Formula: Comes with specialized tools and cleaning solution for comprehensive treatment.

Pros:
– Unrivaled deep cleaning and stain removal for long carpets
– Significantly reduces drying time compared to rental units
– Large tanks for efficient, uninterrupted cleaning
– Revitalizes the look and feel of old or heavily soiled carpets

Cons:
– It is a bulky and heavy machine, not meant for quick, everyday cleaning.

Best for: Homes with heavily soiled long carpets, pet accidents, tough stains, or those looking to refresh their carpets deeply multiple times a year.

Expert Opinion: While it’s not a vacuum, including the BISSELL Big Green is essential when discussing the best way to clean long carpets. For true rejuvenation and stain removal, a dedicated carpet cleaner like this is unmatched. It effectively gets to the root of the problem in thick fibers, providing a level of clean that even the most powerful vacuum can’t achieve. Think of it as a deep conditioning treatment for your carpets!

Helpful Comparison Insights

When you’re looking for the best vacuum for cleaning long carpets, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. The models we’ve reviewed offer distinct advantages.

If lightweight maneuverability and everyday convenience are your top priorities for medium-pile long carpets, the Shark Corded Stick Vacuum is an excellent choice. Its slender design and swivel steering make it incredibly agile around furniture, perfect for quick yet effective passes. However, for truly deeply embedded dirt and pet hair in very thick shag rugs, you’ll likely want to step up to a more robust upright.

The Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright and the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe are both fantastic upright options that excel at digging into long carpet fibers. The Eureka offers great power and versatile height settings at a very competitive price, making it a strong contender for budget-conscious deep cleaning. The Shark Navigator, on the other hand, brings its renowned Lift-Away functionality and superior allergen filtration, making it a premium choice for pet owners and allergy sufferers who need to clean under furniture and keep allergens at bay in their long carpets. Both handle pet hair effectively, but the Navigator’s sealed system gives it an edge for air quality.

For those seeking a unique blend of power and targeted brush agitation in a stick form, the TC-JUNESUN Corded Vacuum Cleaner is a surprising performer. Its separate motor for the brush head is a game-changer for long carpets, ensuring the brush keeps moving and agitating even when encountering resistance from thick pile. This makes it a great middle-ground option, offering more deep-cleaning capability than a typical stick vacuum without the bulk of a full upright.

Finally, for ultimate deep cleaning and stain removal on long carpets that your vacuum simply can’t touch, the BISSELL Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner stands in a league of its own. It’s not a daily vacuum, but for rejuvenating heavily soiled or stained long carpets, nothing compares. Consider it an essential tool for periodic deep cleans, especially if you have pets or high-traffic areas on your long pile. It truly extracts grime and leaves carpets looking revitalized.

Ultimately, your ideal choice depends on the specific type of long carpet you have, the level of dirt and pet hair, and how often you plan to clean.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best vacuum for cleaning long carpets really boils down to your specific needs.

• If you’re on a budget but still need serious deep-cleaning power for thick rugs, the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright is an absolute winner. It delivers fantastic performance without breaking the bank.
• For those dealing with significant pet hair and allergens on long carpets, and appreciate the versatility of a lift-away design, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is your top-tier choice. It truly cleans deep and seals in allergens.
• If you desire the nimble convenience of a stick vacuum but need better agitation for long carpets than average, the TC-JUNESUN Corded Vacuum Cleaner with its dual-motor brush head offers a smart, powerful solution.
• For everyday quick cleans on medium-to-long pile carpets, where ease of use and lightness are paramount, the Shark Corded Stick Vacuum is a reliable and highly maneuverable option.
• And for those times when your long carpets need a complete refresh – a deep clean to remove embedded dirt and stubborn stains that no vacuum can touch – the BISSELL Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner is the undisputed champion. It’s an investment, but one that will restore your carpets like new.

Consider your carpet’s pile, your home’s size, and your budget, and you’ll find an excellent match among these reviewed options to keep your long carpets looking their best.

FAQ Section

1. What makes a vacuum “best” for cleaning long carpets?
The best vacuum for cleaning long carpets needs a few key features: powerful suction to pull dirt from deep fibers, adjustable height settings to prevent getting bogged down or damaging the carpet, and a brush roll that can effectively agitate and lift dirt without getting tangled or stuck. Look for models specifically designed for deep pile or shag.

2. Can stick vacuums clean long carpets effectively?
Traditionally, upright vacuums have been better for long carpets. However, some modern stick vacuums, like the TC-JUNESUN reviewed here, are now equipped with powerful motors and specialized brush heads that can significantly improve their performance on long carpets, especially for quick daily cleans or medium-pile rugs. For very thick shag, a robust upright might still be preferable for a deep clean.

3. Why are some vacuums bad for long carpets?
Vacuums that are “bad” for long carpets typically lack adjustable height settings, causing the brush roll to either get stuck in the fibers (making it hard to push) or to not make enough contact. Overly aggressive brush rolls without a shut-off feature can also damage delicate long fibers over time, leading to fraying or matting.

4. Do I need a special brush roll for long carpets?
While not always “special,” a brush roll designed for multi-surface use or with adjustable speed/height is ideal. Some vacuums feature a brush roll shutoff, which is excellent for very delicate long pile carpets that might be damaged by continuous rotation. Look for brush rolls with softer bristles or those that can be set to a higher pile height.

5. How often should I vacuum long carpets?
For long carpets, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets, vacuuming 2-3 times a week is recommended. This helps prevent dirt from settling too deeply into the fibers, which can make it harder to remove over time and potentially shorten your carpet’s lifespan. For very deep cleaning, a carpet cleaner like the BISSELL Big Green can be used a few times a year.

6. What’s the difference between a vacuum cleaner and a carpet cleaner for long pile?
A vacuum cleaner uses suction and often a brush roll to remove dry dirt, dust, and debris from your long carpets. A carpet cleaner (like the BISSELL Big Green) uses hot water and cleaning solution, along with scrubbing brushes, to deeply clean and extract embedded grime, stains, and allergens from the carpet fibers. They serve different purposes, with the carpet cleaner providing a much deeper, wet clean that a vacuum cannot achieve.

7. Should I choose a corded or cordless vacuum for long carpets?
For the best vacuum for cleaning long carpets, corded vacuums often offer more consistent and powerful suction, which is crucial for deep cleaning thick pile. Cordless options provide great convenience and maneuverability, but their battery life and suction power might diminish over longer cleaning sessions, potentially leaving some dirt behind in deep carpets. If power is your priority for long carpets, corded is often the way to go.