Best vacuum for cleaning thick rugs Featuring 10 Quality Options

As someone who’s wrestled with a vacuum that just couldn’t quite conquer the deep pile of my living room rug, I know the frustration. Thick rugs and carpets add so much warmth and comfort to a home, but they’re also notorious for trapping dirt, pet hair, and allergens deep within their fibers. Finding the best vacuum for cleaning thick rugs isn’t just about strong suction; it’s about the right brushroll, maneuverability, and features that truly pull out embedded grime without damaging the plush material. I’ve spent time digging into various options, putting myself in your shoes to figure out what really works. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into 10 distinct options, highlighting their strengths, weaknesses, and what makes them a contender for tackling your thickest carpets. Let’s find the perfect match to keep your rugs looking fresh and feeling clean.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	BISSELL Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop All in One Wet and…	View on Amazon
	Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet…	View on Amazon
	Yocada Carpet Sweeper Cleaner for Home Office Low&Undercoat…	View on Amazon
	3-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop 4000Pa Strong Suction Robot…	View on Amazon
	Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet, Upholstery & Area Rug…	View on Amazon
	Shark HydroVac MessMaster Wet Dry Corded Vacuum Cleaner,…	View on Amazon
	Yocada Carpet Sweeper Cleaner for Home Office Low&Undercoat…	View on Amazon
	Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker Upright Carpet, Area…	View on Amazon
	SHARK WD160 HydroVac MessMaster XL 3-in-1 Vacuum, Mop &…	View on Amazon
	Dirt Devil Carpet Powder, 32 oz, Room Refresher and Odor…	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

BISSELL Crosswave Turbo Vacuum Mop All in One Wet and…

This BISSELL CrossWave Turbo is a true multi-tasker designed to vacuum and wash your floors simultaneously, including area rugs. While it’s particularly stellar on sealed hard floors, its ability to refresh area rugs makes it a versatile tool for homes with a mix of surfaces. It uses a dual-tank system to keep clean water and dirty water separate, ensuring you’re always cleaning with fresh solution, which is a big plus for hygiene. The antimicrobial-treated filter also helps keep things smelling fresh, especially important when dealing with pet messes that often find their way onto rugs. It won’t deep-clean the thickest, high-pile rugs like a dedicated carpet cleaner, but it’s fantastic for refreshing lower-pile area rugs and quickly tackling spills.

Key features that stand out:
– Vacuum and Wash at the Same Time: Cuts down cleaning time significantly.
– Multi-Surface Cleaning: Versatile for tile, sealed wood, laminate, and area rugs.
– Two-Tank Technology: Separates clean and dirty water for superior cleaning.
– Antimicrobial Treated FreshStart Filter: Helps protect against odors, especially from pet messes.

Pros:
– Excellent for quick clean-ups and refreshing area rugs.
– Combines vacuuming and mopping, saving time.
– Effective at handling wet messes and spills.
Cons:
– Not designed for deep cleaning very thick, high-pile carpets.

Best for: Homes with a mix of hard floors and lower-pile area rugs, looking for an all-in-one solution for light cleaning and refreshing.

Expert Opinion: While not a heavy-duty vacuum for the densest of thick rugs, its ability to wet-clean and vacuum simultaneously offers a great way to refresh and sanitize area rugs that don’t require intense pile agitation. It’s a convenient tool for maintaining cleanliness rather than deep extraction.

Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum for Carpet…

When you’re dealing with thick rugs, having a vacuum that’s both powerful and easy to maneuver is a game-changer. The Shark Rocket Ultra-Light fits this bill perfectly. Weighing less than 9 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to push across even dense carpets, and its swivel steering lets you glide around furniture without a struggle. This corded vacuum boasts ultra-powerful suction for deep cleaning carpets, ensuring it pulls out embedded dirt and pet hair effectively. It also converts into a handheld vacuum, which is fantastic for cleaning stairs, upholstery, or even high-up corners that accumulate dust, making it a truly versatile choice for comprehensive home cleaning, including your thickest rugs.

Key features that stand out:
– Ultra-Lightweight & Versatile: Under 9 lbs and converts to a handheld for floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
– Ultra-Powerful Corded Cleaning: Consistently strong suction for carpets and hard floors.
– Fingertip Controls: Easy toggling between different floor surfaces.
– Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control and maneuverability.

Pros:
– Exceptionally lightweight, making it easy to carry and use.
– Strong suction power for deep carpet cleaning.
– Versatile with handheld mode and useful attachments.
Cons:
– The small dust cup may require frequent emptying during large cleaning tasks.

Best for: Individuals seeking a lightweight, powerful, and versatile corded vacuum for deep cleaning thick rugs and various other surfaces.

Expert Opinion: This Shark Rocket is a solid contender for thick rugs due to its strong, consistent suction and maneuverability. The ability to switch to a handheld also means you can easily clean specific spots on your rug or tackle pet hair on furniture that your vacuum might not reach.

Yocada Carpet Sweeper Cleaner for Home Office Low&Undercoat…

The Yocada Carpet Sweeper is a unique entry on this list, stepping away from electric vacuums to offer a completely manual, battery-free cleaning solution. It’s designed specifically for light clean-ups on low carpets, rugs, and undercoat carpets. This means it’s not the workhorse you’d pick for deeply embedded dirt in very thick, high-pile rugs. However, for quick passes to pick up pet hair, crumbs, dust, and debris on less dense rugs, it’s incredibly convenient. There are no cords, no noise, and no electricity needed, making it perfect for silent, spot cleaning or areas where power outlets are scarce. Emptying is also super simple with a press of a button.

Key features that stand out:
– Multifunctional for Low-Pile Carpets: Safe and efficient on low carpets, rugs, and undercoat carpets (not for hardwood/tile).
– Good Collecting: Effectively gathers pet hair, bread crumbs, dust, and small debris.
– No Batteries/Electricity: Completely manual operation, silent and cord-free.
– Easy Emptying: Simple button-press mechanism to discard collected debris.

Pros:
– Quiet, eco-friendly, and requires no power.
– Excellent for quick, light clean-ups on low-pile rugs.
– Compact and easy to store.
Cons:
– Not suitable for deep cleaning thick, high-pile rugs or hard floors.

Best for: Quick, silent clean-ups of surface debris on low-pile area rugs and undercoat carpets, especially in small spaces or offices.

Expert Opinion: While it’s not a vacuum in the traditional sense, this carpet sweeper serves a valuable purpose for light maintenance on some types of rugs. It’s crucial to understand its limitations for truly thick, plush carpets, where its bristles simply won’t reach deep enough. Think of it as a broom for low-pile carpets.

3-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop 4000Pa Strong Suction Robot…

Robot vacuums have come a long way, and this 3-in-1 model with 4000Pa strong suction is designed to tackle various floor types, including carpets up to 18mm thick. That’s a decent pile height, making it a viable option for many thick rugs. It combines sweeping, vacuuming, and even mopping (for hard floors) into one smart device. Equipped with intelligent sensors and obstacle avoidance, it navigates your home effectively, ensuring thorough coverage with its 3-point cleaning system and multiple cleaning modes. The convenience of dual control (remote/app) and Alexa/Google Assistant compatibility means you can clean your thick rugs with minimal effort. Plus, its long-lasting battery and auto-recharge feature mean it’s always ready to go.

Key features that stand out:
– 3-in-1 Robot Vacuum: Sweeps, vacuums, and mops (hard floors).
– Max 4000Pa Strong Suction: Powerful enough for deeper carpet cleaning.
– Climbs Carpets up to 18mm: Suitable for a good range of thick rugs.
– Smart Cleaning Modes & Obstacle Avoidance: Efficient navigation and comprehensive cleaning.

Pros:
– High suction power for a robot vacuum, good for thick rugs.
– Hands-free cleaning with smart features and app control.
– Auto-recharge and slim design for continuous cleaning under furniture.
Cons:
– Can sometimes get stuck on tassels or very high-pile shag rugs.

Best for: Those who want automated, hands-free cleaning for homes with thick rugs, who appreciate smart features and multi-surface capability.

Expert Opinion: This robot vacuum offers impressive suction for its category, making it one of the better choices for tackling thicker rugs automatically. However, for truly deep, infrequent cleaning, a traditional upright or stick vacuum might still be necessary to complement its daily maintenance.

Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet, Upholstery & Area Rug…

When your thick rug inevitably encounters a spill or a pet accident, the Shark StainStriker is your go-to hero. This isn’t a full-fledged vacuum cleaner, but a powerful portable spot and stain remover designed for targeted cleaning. What sets it apart is its dual-activated formula, which mixes inside the unit to deliver 20x more stain-striking power, especially potent against pet messes, urine, and smoke odors. With ultra-powerful suction, it pulls out embedded spots and stains, aiming for like-new results. Its lightweight and compact design means you can grab it and tackle stains as soon as they happen on your carpets, area rugs, upholstery, or even car interiors, preventing them from setting in.

Key features that stand out:
– Portable Spot & Stain Remover: Specifically designed for embedded spots and stains.
– Dual-Activated Formula: Delivers 20x more stain-striking power.
– Perfect for Pets: Instantly and permanently removes stubborn odors like pet urine and smoke.
– Ultra-Powerful Suction: Effectively pulls out deep stains and liquids.

Pros:
– Highly effective at removing tough, set-in stains and odors.
– Portable and lightweight for quick response to spills.
– Specialized pet mess extractor tool included.
Cons:
– Not a vacuum cleaner; only for spot treatment, not general cleaning of thick rugs.

Best for: Pet owners or anyone who frequently deals with spills and stubborn stains on thick rugs, upholstery, or car interiors.

Expert Opinion: This device is a must-have companion to your main vacuum for thick rugs. While it won’t clean your entire rug, its ability to tackle deep stains and odors effectively prevents permanent damage and keeps your thick rugs looking their best between full cleanings.

Shark HydroVac MessMaster Wet Dry Corded Vacuum Cleaner,…

The Shark HydroVac MessMaster is a versatile 3-in-1 cleaner that vacuums, mops, and even cleans itself simultaneously. While it excels on sealed hard floors, it’s also designed to clean area rugs by removing surface dirt and odors. This means for your thick rugs, it can tackle wet and dry messes, pull in dirt, debris, and grime, and help reduce odors, particularly useful for pet owners. The continuous self-cleaning system ensures you’re always cleaning with a fresh brushroll, and the debris filtration technology separates solids from liquids for easy disposal. Its Stain Boost mode provides extra cleaning solution for tougher spots, making it a powerful tool for maintaining hygiene and freshness on applicable thick rugs.

Key features that stand out:
– 3-in-1 Cleaning: Vacuums, mops, and self-cleans simultaneously.
– Wet + Dry Messes: Handles both liquid spills and dry debris.
– Reduces Odors: Multi-surface concentrate with odor neutralizer technology.
– Multi-Surface Cleaning: Designed for sealed hard floors and area rugs.

Pros:
– Excellent for quick clean-ups of spills and surface dirt on rugs.
– Integrated odor neutralizer is great for pet homes.
– Self-cleaning system keeps the brushroll hygienic.
Cons:
– Primarily designed for hard floors; only for surface cleaning and refreshing area rugs, not deep vacuuming.

Best for: Households with both hard floors and area rugs that need regular cleaning, spill management, and odor reduction, especially for pet messes.

Expert Opinion: This HydroVac is a fantastic solution for maintaining the cleanliness and freshness of area rugs. It’s not a dry vacuum for deep-pile extraction, but its wet-cleaning capabilities and odor control are highly beneficial for keeping thick rugs hygienic and looking good after surface-level messes.

Yocada Carpet Sweeper Cleaner for Home Office Low&Undercoat…

Here we have the Yocada Carpet Sweeper again, reinforcing its specific niche in the cleaning world. As mentioned previously, this is a manual, non-electric device tailored for low-pile carpets and undercoat rugs. It’s incredibly handy for quick clean-ups of superficial debris like pet hair, crumbs, or dust without the noise or hassle of plugging in a vacuum. Its compact size and lack of cords make it ideal for small areas, offices, or bedrooms where you just need to tidy up a low-pile rug quickly. While it won’t penetrate the deep fibers of a very thick rug to extract embedded dirt, it’s an environmentally friendly and convenient tool for surface maintenance, especially when you need to be quiet.

Key features that stand out:
– Multifunctional for Low-Pile Carpets: Specifically for low carpets, rugs, and undercoat carpets; avoid hard floors.
– Good Collecting: Efficiently picks up pet hair, crumbs, dust, and other small debris.
– No Batteries/Electricity: Operates manually, making it quiet and portable.
– Easy Emptying: Features a simple button to release collected waste.

Pros:
– Extremely quiet operation, perfect for sensitive environments.
– Environmentally friendly with no power consumption.
– Lightweight and easy to maneuver for quick spot checks.
Cons:
– Completely ineffective for deep cleaning thick, high-pile rugs; limited to surface debris.

Best for: Light, quiet, and frequent spot cleaning of low-pile rugs or for those who prefer a manual, non-electric option for quick touch-ups.

Expert Opinion: For rugs that are truly thick and plush, this sweeper will barely scratch the surface. It fills a different role: that of a silent, quick picker-upper for thin rugs. It’s important to set realistic expectations and understand it’s not a substitute for a powerful vacuum on your deep-pile carpets.

Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker Upright Carpet, Area…

When it comes to serious deep cleaning for your thick rugs and carpets, the Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker is a formidable contender. This upright carpet and upholstery cleaner combines CarpetXpert Technology (high-speed brushroll with PowerSpray and ultra-powerful suction) for unbeatable dirt and grime removal, and StainStriker Technology for 20x more stain-striking power. It’s designed not just to vacuum, but to clean your rugs, pulling out embedded dirt, grime, and even permanently removing stubborn pet odors. The built-in spot and stain eliminator, along with specialized tools, ensures comprehensive cleaning. Plus, Shark’s technology promises ultra-fast dry times, so your thick rugs aren’t soaked for long.

Key features that stand out:
– Unbeatable Deep Carpet Cleaning: CarpetXpert Technology with high-speed brushroll and PowerSpray.
– 20X More Stain-Striking Power: StainStriker Technology for tough stain elimination.
– Built-in Spot & Stain Eliminator: Effectively treats and removes stubborn set-in stains.
– Ultra-Fast Dry Times: Minimizes moisture in your carpets after cleaning.

Pros:
– Provides deep, restorative cleaning for thick carpets and rugs.
– Highly effective against tough stains and pet odors.
– Dries carpets quickly, reducing the risk of mildew.
Cons:
– Heavier and larger than a standard vacuum, making storage and maneuverability more challenging.

Best for: Homeowners with thick rugs and carpets that require deep, thorough cleaning to remove embedded dirt, grime, and eliminate stubborn stains and odors.

Expert Opinion: This is arguably one of the best vacuum for cleaning thick rugs if you’re looking for a deep carpet cleaner that truly revives your plush carpets. Its combination of powerful extraction and stain removal technology targets the very problems thick rugs are prone to, offering a solution beyond just dry vacuuming.

SHARK WD160 HydroVac MessMaster XL 3-in-1 Vacuum, Mop &…

The SHARK WD160 HydroVac MessMaster XL takes the multi-surface cleaning concept to the next level with an extra-large clean tank, meaning fewer refills and more cleaning time. This 3-in-1 corded device vacuums, mops, and self-cleans simultaneously, making it ideal for deep cleaning hard floors and cleaning area rugs. Its powerful suction and hydro mopping pull in wet and dry messes, stains, and grime, leaving surfaces streak-free. With a Stain Boost mode for extra solution and odor neutralizer technology in the cleaning concentrate, it’s particularly good for homes with pets. The continuous self-cleaning system and rinse cycle on the dock ensure the unit stays clean and ready, making it a robust option for maintaining clean and fresh area rugs.

Key features that stand out:
– 3-in-1 Cleaning: Vacuums, mops, and self-cleans at the same time.
– Extra Large Clean Tank: Allows for longer cleaning sessions without refilling.
– Stain Boost Mode: Delivers 2x boost of cleaning solution for tough spots.
– Reduces Odors: Included multi-surface concentrate neutralizes and prevents odors.

Pros:
– Large tank capacity for extended cleaning.
– Excellent for managing wet and dry messes on area rugs.
– Effectively reduces and prevents odors, perfect for pet owners.
Cons:
– As a wet cleaner, it’s more for surface cleaning area rugs than deep dry vacuuming of very thick carpets.

Best for: Homes with extensive hard flooring and area rugs, where frequent wet cleaning, spill management, and odor control are priorities.

Expert Opinion: The XL version of the HydroVac is a powerful ally for maintaining freshness and cleanliness on area rugs, especially in high-traffic or pet-friendly homes. Its larger tank is a thoughtful upgrade for those with more ground to cover, offering significant convenience for regular wet clean-ups.

Dirt Devil Carpet Powder, 32 oz, Room Refresher and Odor…

While not a vacuum itself, the Dirt Devil Carpet Powder is a crucial complementary product for anyone serious about cleaning thick rugs. Thick rugs can trap not just dirt, but also odors from pets, cooking, or general use. This vacuum-safe carpet powder is designed to tackle these tough odors effortlessly. You simply sprinkle it on your carpet or area rug, let it sit for a bit to absorb smells, and then vacuum it up with your preferred vacuum cleaner. It leaves behind a pleasant “spring meadows” scent, revitalizing your space. This product enhances the effectiveness of any best vacuum for cleaning thick rugs by addressing the often-overlooked aspect of odor removal, leading to a truly clean and fresh home.

Key features that stand out:
– Carpet Cleaning Powder: Effortlessly tackles tough odors like smoke and cooking smells.
– Vacuum-Safe: Designed to be used with your vacuum cleaner without damage.
– Versatile Freshness: Can be used on carpets, area rugs, couches, and upholstery.
– Long-Lasting Clean: Specially formulated scent keeps spaces fresh for days.

Pros:
– Highly effective at neutralizing stubborn odors in thick rugs.
– Easy to use and safe for most vacuum cleaners.
– Provides a lasting fresh scent.
Cons:
– It is not a vacuum; it requires a separate vacuum cleaner to be effective.

Best for: Anyone looking to eliminate deep-seated odors from thick rugs, carpets, and upholstery, complementing their regular vacuuming routine.

Expert Opinion: Don’t underestimate the power of a good carpet powder in conjunction with your vacuum. For thick rugs where odors can really settle in, using something like the Dirt Devil Carpet Powder can make a massive difference in the overall freshness of your home. It turns a good vacuuming session into an excellent one.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When you’re searching for the best vacuum for cleaning thick rugs, you’ll notice a few distinct categories emerge from our reviews. Each type has its unique strengths and ideal use cases.

For deep, restorative cleaning, especially if you have significant pet messes or stains, the Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker stands out. It’s a dedicated carpet cleaner that doesn’t just vacuum; it washes and extracts deep dirt and odors, making your thick rugs truly feel new. Its powerful brushroll and specialized cleaning solutions are tailored for embedded grime, something a standard dry vacuum might struggle with on a very dense pile.

If you’re looking for a versatile dry vacuum that can handle thick rugs alongside other surfaces, the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum is a fantastic choice. Its strong suction and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver, and the ability to convert to a handheld is a huge bonus for specific rug areas or upholstery. The key here is its consistent corded power, ensuring no loss of suction, which is vital for pulling dirt from deep rug fibers.

For those wanting to maintain cleanliness and tackle spills on area rugs rather than very thick wall-to-wall carpeting, the BISSELL Crosswave Turbo and the Shark HydroVac MessMaster (including the XL version) offer excellent wet and dry capabilities. These are perfect for refreshing surfaces, handling pet accidents, and neutralizing odors. They are not designed for deep dry vacuuming of the thickest rugs, but they are unparalleled for surface cleaning and spill management on lower-to-medium pile area rugs. The HydroVac MessMaster XL is particularly beneficial for larger homes due to its increased tank capacity.

For the modern, hands-off approach, the 3-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop provides automated cleaning for rugs up to 18mm thick. Its strong suction for a robot vacuum means it can surprisingly handle a good amount of embedded dirt. However, remember that even the best robot vacuum for thick rugs might need an occasional assist from a manual upright for the deepest clean.

Finally, we have specialized tools. The Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet, Upholstery & Area Rug Spot Cleaner is not a vacuum, but it’s an indispensable tool for targeted treatment of stains and odors on thick rugs. And for a completely manual, quiet clean on low-pile rugs, the Yocada Carpet Sweeper Cleaner is excellent for quick surface debris pick-up, though it won’t work on high-pile carpets. Don’t forget the Dirt Devil Carpet Powder to significantly boost odor removal for any vacuuming session on thick rugs.

When choosing, consider the type of rug (pile height, material), the type of mess (dry dirt, pet hair, wet spills, odors), and your desired cleaning effort (manual, robotic, or intense deep cleaning). A good brushroll is often crucial for agitating thick rug fibers to release trapped dirt, and strong, consistent suction is necessary to pull it out.

Final Verdict

Navigating the world of vacuums for thick rugs can feel overwhelming, but what we’ve seen is a clear distinction: there’s no single “best” for everyone. Instead, it’s about the best fit for your specific needs and your thickest rugs.

If your priority is ultimate deep cleaning and stain removal to truly revitalize plush, high-pile carpets, the Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker stands out as the most robust solution. It’s a dedicated deep cleaner designed to tackle the toughest challenges thick rugs present.

For everyday vacuuming and versatile dry cleaning across various thick rugs and home surfaces, the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum offers an excellent balance of power, maneuverability, and convenience. Its strong suction and lightweight design make it a consistent performer.

If your home features a mix of hard floors and area rugs, and you frequently deal with spills, pet messes, and odors, then a wet/dry option like the Shark HydroVac MessMaster (and its XL variant) or the BISSELL Crosswave Turbo will be your best friend. They are fantastic for surface refreshment and quick clean-ups, though less so for deep dry extraction on very thick pile.

And for those embracing technology, the 3-in-1 Robot Vacuum with strong suction proves that automated cleaning can indeed make a noticeable difference on thicker rugs, offering convenience for daily maintenance.

Remember to consider complementary products like the Shark StainStriker Portable Cleaner for emergency spot treatments, and the Dirt Devil Carpet Powder to banish lingering odors, significantly enhancing the overall cleanliness and freshness your chosen vacuum provides. Ultimately, investing in the right tool means your thick rugs will not only look great but feel truly clean for years to come.

FAQ Section

Q1: What features are most important in the best vacuum for cleaning thick rugs?
A1: For thick rugs, look for strong, consistent suction power and a height-adjustable brushroll or one specifically designed for deep pile. A powerful brushroll agitates the rug fibers to release trapped dirt, and high suction pulls it out. Features like sealed systems for allergen capture and easy-to-empty dustbins are also a plus.

Q2: Can robot vacuums effectively clean thick rugs?
A2: Some robot vacuums, like the 3-in-1 model we reviewed with 4000Pa suction and the ability to climb carpets up to 18mm, can be quite effective for daily maintenance and surface cleaning of thick rugs. However, for truly deep, embedded dirt, a powerful upright or stick vacuum might still be necessary periodically.

Q3: Are wet/dry vacuums like the Shark HydroVac suitable for all thick rugs?
A3: Wet/dry vacuums are excellent for refreshing area rugs, tackling spills, and removing surface dirt and odors. However, they are generally designed for “area rugs” rather than very high-pile, wall-to-wall carpeting. Always check your rug’s care instructions before using a wet cleaner, and ensure proper drying to prevent mildew. For very thick, plush rugs, they might not offer the same deep-dry vacuuming as a dedicated upright carpet vacuum.

Q4: How often should I vacuum my thick rugs?
A4: Thick rugs, especially in high-traffic areas or homes with pets, should be vacuumed at least 2-3 times a week. Lower-traffic areas might only need weekly vacuuming. The deep fibers of thick rugs tend to trap more dirt and allergens, so frequent cleaning is crucial for maintaining cleanliness and air quality.

Q5: What’s the difference between a vacuum cleaner and a carpet cleaner like the Shark CarpetXpert?
A5: A standard vacuum cleaner primarily uses suction and a brushroll to remove dry dirt and debris. A carpet cleaner (also known as an extractor or shampooer), like the Shark CarpetXpert, uses water and cleaning solutions to deep-clean carpets. It sprays a solution, agitates it into the fibers, and then extracts the dirty water, providing a much deeper clean that can remove set-in stains and odors. It’s often considered the best vacuum for cleaning thick rugs if deep restoration is your goal.

Q6: Why is the Dirt Devil Carpet Powder included in an article about the best vacuum for cleaning thick rugs?
A6: The Dirt Devil Carpet Powder is included as a crucial complementary product. While it’s not a vacuum, it significantly enhances the cleaning process for thick rugs by effectively neutralizing deep-seated odors that vacuuming alone might not remove. Using it before vacuuming ensures your thick rugs are not just clean of dirt, but also smell fresh.