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10 Best Carpet Shampooers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer Machine with Multi-Purpose Tools, Pair Carpet Cleaner Solution

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,463
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
57503 reviews

Cleaning Power
This carpet cleaner is an absolute game-changer, handling old stains like a pro with strong suction power that leaves carpets drying faster than expected.
Water Tank Capacity
Although it requires frequent refilling for larger areas, it's worth the money for the convenience of not having to rent a commercial shampooer.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments work nicely and are easy to connect, making it perfect for cleaning stairs and upholstery, with a hose that reaches about seven steps up.
Ease of Maintenance
Designed with user-friendliness in mind, this model makes cleaning the unit unbelievably easy, with detachable rotating brush rollers and convenient tanks.

The Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner is a solid choice for those looking to deep clean their carpets. Its cleaning power is enhanced by SpinScrub® Technology, which features multiple rotating brushes that effectively reach into carpet fibers for a thorough clean. The dual nozzle design ensures that suction is evenly applied, helping to speed up the cleaning process. With a water tank capacity of 3.8 liters, you can clean a decent-sized area before needing to refill, which is quite convenient. Additionally, the Smart Tank™ system makes it easy to fill, empty, and clean the tanks without any mess, saving you time and hassle.

Weighing in at 18.5 pounds, the machine is relatively lightweight, but some users may still find it a bit cumbersome to maneuver, especially in tight spaces or on stairs. It comes with an 8-foot hose and upholstery tool, making it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas, which is a nice bonus. However, for those who need to clean larger areas frequently, the drying time may be a concern, as it can take a bit longer for carpets to dry completely after cleaning.

The machine also scores well on ease of maintenance, with removable brushes that can be cleaned easily. However, it does require assembly upon arrival, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users. This carpet shampooer is best suited for homeowners looking for a reliable and effective cleaning solution that combines power with ease of use. Its features make it a strong contender in the market, though potential buyers should consider their specific needs regarding weight and drying time.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,463
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
57503 reviews

Cleaning Power
This carpet cleaner is an absolute game-changer, handling old stains like a pro with strong suction power that leaves carpets drying faster than expected.
Water Tank Capacity
Although it requires frequent refilling for larger areas, it's worth the money for the convenience of not having to rent a commercial shampooer.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments work nicely and are easy to connect, making it perfect for cleaning stairs and upholstery, with a hose that reaches about seven steps up.
Ease of Maintenance
Designed with user-friendliness in mind, this model makes cleaning the unit unbelievably easy, with detachable rotating brush rollers and convenient tanks.
#2

Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Automatic Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer, Converts to Spot Cleaner, Pair with Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution

Rating
9.6
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Drying Time

Most important from
4 reviews

Cleaning Power
The automatic washing and drying system takes the guesswork out of carpet cleaning, delivering consistently thorough results with minimal effort.
Water Tank Capacity
Removable tanks and detachable housing make cleaning and maintenance straightforward, preventing buildup and extending the machine's longevity.
Drying Time
The suction is solid and noticeably improved over previous models, efficiently extracting water and dirt without leaving carpets overly wet.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite being nearly 20 pounds, the machine remains manageable during use, even for those with back issues.
Attachments and Accessories
Dual brush bars work exceptionally well on various carpet types, including old Berbers and cut loops, revitalizing fibers without hair getting stuck.
Ease of Maintenance
Removable tanks and detachable housing make cleaning and maintenance straightforward, preventing buildup and extending the machine's longevity.

The Hoover SmartWash Pet XL is designed to make carpet cleaning easier with its automatic washing and drying technology, which means you don’t have to guess when to scrub or rinse. This feature is especially helpful for pet owners who need regular deep cleaning. Its large 96 oz. water tanks allow longer cleaning sessions without frequent refills, which is convenient for bigger areas.

The machine is relatively heavy at nearly 20 pounds, so it might feel a bit bulky, but its upright design and included tools help with maneuverability around furniture and stairs. The fast drying time, thanks to Heatforce technology, is a nice perk for those who want to use their carpets again quickly after cleaning. Attachments like the 8-foot hose, upholstery tool, and stair cleaner make it versatile beyond just floors, ideal for pet hair and spot cleaning. The self-cleaning tray simplifies maintenance by flushing out hair and debris easily, reducing manual cleaning effort.

Being corded means you might find limited range in large rooms without extra extension cords, and the weight could be tiring for some users during extended use. Also, while it comes with trial cleaning solutions, you’ll need to buy refills separately. This product is a strong choice if you want a mostly hands-off, thorough carpet cleaner with pet-friendly features and several accessories for versatile cleaning needs.

Rating
9.6
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Drying Time

Most important from
4 reviews

Cleaning Power
The automatic washing and drying system takes the guesswork out of carpet cleaning, delivering consistently thorough results with minimal effort.
Water Tank Capacity
Removable tanks and detachable housing make cleaning and maintenance straightforward, preventing buildup and extending the machine's longevity.
Drying Time
The suction is solid and noticeably improved over previous models, efficiently extracting water and dirt without leaving carpets overly wet.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite being nearly 20 pounds, the machine remains manageable during use, even for those with back issues.
Attachments and Accessories
Dual brush bars work exceptionally well on various carpet types, including old Berbers and cut loops, revitalizing fibers without hair getting stuck.
Ease of Maintenance
Removable tanks and detachable housing make cleaning and maintenance straightforward, preventing buildup and extending the machine's longevity.
#3

Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine, Lightweight Shampooer Machine, Pair with a Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution for a Bright, Refreshed Home

Rating
9.4
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Drying Time

Most important from
83987 reviews

Cleaning Power
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Carpet Cleaner significantly improved the appearance of a heavily used 20-year-old carpet, even outperforming a professional cleaning service.
Water Tank Capacity
While the water tank is small and requires frequent refills, the overall performance and results are worth the extra effort.
Drying Time
The suction power is impressive, leaving carpets barely damp and drying quickly, especially in low humidity climates.
Weight and Maneuverability
The cleaner is lightweight and easy to store, fitting well into tight spaces like apartment closets.
Ease of Maintenance
The machine is straightforward to use and maintain, with easy assembly and cleaning processes.

The Hoover PowerDash Pet Carpet Cleaner, FH50700, stands out with its lightweight and compact design, making it a great choice for small homes and apartments. Weighing just 7.3 pounds, it's easy to carry around and store. The cleaner is particularly effective for pet messes and high traffic areas, thanks to the antimicrobial PowerSpin pet brush roll which helps mitigate pet odors.

It also comes with HeatForce technology that speeds up drying time, so your carpets dry faster after cleaning. However, the water tank capacity isn't very large, meaning you may need to refill it more frequently during bigger cleaning jobs. Despite this, the cleaner offers efficient cleaning power and comes with a sample cleaning solution to get you started.

Maintenance is straightforward, and no assembly is required, which is a plus. On the downside, it lacks some of the more advanced attachments and accessories found in higher-end models, limiting its versatility somewhat. Nevertheless, for those with smaller cleaning areas and pet owners, this carpet cleaner offers a good balance of power, convenience, and affordability.

Rating
9.4
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Drying Time

Most important from
83987 reviews

Cleaning Power
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Carpet Cleaner significantly improved the appearance of a heavily used 20-year-old carpet, even outperforming a professional cleaning service.
Water Tank Capacity
While the water tank is small and requires frequent refills, the overall performance and results are worth the extra effort.
Drying Time
The suction power is impressive, leaving carpets barely damp and drying quickly, especially in low humidity climates.
Weight and Maneuverability
The cleaner is lightweight and easy to store, fitting well into tight spaces like apartment closets.
Ease of Maintenance
The machine is straightforward to use and maintain, with easy assembly and cleaning processes.

Buying Guide for the Best Carpet Shampooers

Choosing the right carpet shampooer can make a big difference in keeping your carpets clean and fresh. To find the best fit, consider both the type of cleaning you need to do and how often you’ll use the machine. Thinking about the size of your carpets, how stained they tend to get, and whether you have pets or allergies will help you identify which features are most important for you. Understanding the key specs of carpet shampooers will help you pick one that suits your home and lifestyle.
Tank CapacityTank capacity refers to how much water and cleaning solution a carpet shampooer can hold at one time. This is important because a larger tank allows you to clean more area without needing to stop and refill as often. Smaller tanks generally hold less than one gallon and are easier to handle but require more frequent refills, making them best for small rooms or spot cleaning. Medium tanks range from about one to 1.5 gallons and suit most average homes. Large tanks, holding over 1.5 gallons, are ideal for big spaces but make the machine heavier and bulkier. If you have large carpeted areas or want fewer interruptions, choose a bigger tank, but if you’re mainly cleaning small spaces, a compact model may be more convenient.
Cleaning Path WidthThe cleaning path width is how wide a strip of carpet the shampooer can clean in a single pass. This is important because a wider cleaning path allows you to cover more area with each swipe, reducing cleaning time. Widths typically range from about 8 to 15 inches. Narrower paths are found on smaller and more portable models, suitable for tight or hard-to-reach spaces. Wider paths are great for large open rooms. Think about the size and layout of your rooms—if you have lots of wide, open carpet, a wider path saves time, but if your home has narrow hallways or lots of furniture, a narrow path may be easier to maneuver.
WeightWeight refers to how heavy the shampooer is, both when empty and when filled with water. This matters because heavier machines can be tough to move, especially up and down stairs or around furniture. Lightweight shampooers are under 15 pounds and are ideal if you need to carry the machine around your home. Heavier models, over 20 pounds, often offer more powerful cleaning and larger tanks but can be tiring to use. Consider your strength and mobility, as well as the design of your home, when deciding how much weight is manageable for you.
Power and Cleaning ModesCarpet shampooers can come with different cleaning power levels and sometimes offer modes like deep clean, quick clean, or specialized pet modes. High suction and multiple brush rolls usually provide a more effective clean, helping to lift embedded dirt and stains. Entry-level shampooers may have fewer modes and less suction, which could be sufficient for light cleaning or maintenance. More advanced models often allow you to select different modes for tougher jobs. To decide what's right for you, think about how dirty your carpets get, whether you have pets or kids, and if stain removal is a priority.
Drying FeaturesSome carpet shampooers come with features to help carpets dry faster, like heated air fans or strong water extraction. This is important because wet carpets can be inconvenient and take longer to dry, increasing the chance of mold or mildew. Machines with strong suction remove more water after cleaning, which makes drying quicker. If you need to use your carpet soon after cleaning or you live in a humid area, prefer a model with good drying capabilities.
Attachments and AccessoriesMany carpet shampooers come with extra tools, such as hose attachments, brushes, or nozzles for cleaning stairs, upholstery, or tackling tough stains. These extras are important if you plan to clean more than just your floor, such as car interiors, furniture, or hard-to-reach areas. If you expect to clean a variety of surfaces, look for shampooers with a range of attachments, but if you’re only cleaning flat carpets, you may not need these extras.
Ease of Use and MaintenanceEase of use includes how simple it is to fill, empty, and clean the water tanks, how clearly the controls are marked, and whether parts can be easily removed for washing. Machines that are easier to operate and maintain will save you time and hassle. Some models have removable brushes or self-cleaning modes, which make maintenance quicker. If you want a low-fuss experience, favor user-friendly designs with clear instructions and easy-to-handle parts.

FAQ