10 Best Vacuums For Carpets 2025 in the United States

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, is a solid choice for households needing an effective carpet cleaner. One of its standout features is the powerful suction that effectively handles both carpets and bare floors, making it versatile for different cleaning needs. The lift-away functionality allows users to detach the pod, which is great for reaching under furniture or cleaning above-floor surfaces like upholstery and stairs. This flexibility is especially helpful in tight spaces or for those who have pets, as the included upholstery tool makes picking up pet hair simple and efficient.

Another notable aspect is the HEPA filtration system, paired with anti-allergen technology, which helps trap dust and allergens. This feature is advantageous for allergy sufferers, ensuring cleaner air quality during and after cleaning. Additionally, the 0.9-quart dust cup capacity means less frequent emptying, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without interruptions.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The vacuum is not cordless, which limits mobility and may be inconvenient in larger spaces. While it provides good suction, it does add some weight, which could make prolonged use tiring for some users. Noise level is also an aspect worth noting; while it's not excessively loud, it’s not the quietest vacuum on the market either. The swivel steering feature enhances maneuverability, but some users may find that the vacuum's bulk makes it harder to navigate in very tight spaces. Also, while the brush roll shutoff feature is useful for switching between carpet and bare floor cleaning, some may prefer a more intuitive transition without needing to adjust settings.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe proves to be a practical vacuum for carpet cleaning, particularly beneficial for pet owners or those with allergies, though its corded design and weight could pose challenges for certain users.

The Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner, also known as the PowerSpeed, offers several advantages for those needing a vacuum primarily for carpet cleaning. Its upgraded cyclone system and powerful suction are effective in extracting embedded dirt, dust, and even microscopic particles from carpets and hard floors. The vacuum's lightweight design, weighing only 11.5 pounds, enhances its maneuverability, making it easier to carry and move around the house. With five height settings, it can adapt well to different carpet types, rugs, and hard floors without causing damage to surfaces like hardwood floors.

The vacuum is also equipped with multiple accessories, including a crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool, for a more comprehensive cleaning experience, especially useful for pet owners and those needing to clean hard-to-reach areas and furniture. The filtration system traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, beneficial for maintaining a cleaner air environment in the home. However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The vacuum requires regular maintenance, particularly cleaning the roller brush and belt every two weeks to prevent clogs and potential malfunctions, as ignoring this can lead to issues such as smoke and a broken belt. Additionally, the noise level at 88 dB might be louder than some users prefer.

The unit is bagless, which saves on replacement costs but means you will need to empty the dust cup frequently. Assembly is required, but it is relatively straightforward. Given these features and considerations, the Eureka PowerSpeed is a strong contender for those seeking an efficient, lightweight, and versatile vacuum cleaner that handles carpeted and hard floor surfaces effectively.

The Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet Upright Vacuum is designed with pet owners in mind and offers several features tailored for efficient carpet cleaning. It boasts strong suction power, which is crucial for deep cleaning carpets. The PowerFins HairPro and self-cleaning brush roll make it effective at picking up various types of hair, including pet hair, without getting tangled, which is a significant advantage for households with pets. The inclusion of Odor Neutralizer Technology helps keep your home smelling fresh, which is an added benefit if you have pets or high foot traffic.

The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, combined with a HEPA filter, captures 99.99% of dust and allergens, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. The 3XL dust cup capacity allows for longer cleaning sessions without frequent emptying, and the extendable hose reach is handy for cleaning stairs and furniture. Swivel steering enhances maneuverability, making it easier to navigate around furniture and tight spaces.

It is a corded vacuum, which may limit mobility compared to cordless models. Additionally, while it is lightweight, some users may still find it cumbersome to carry up and down stairs. The vacuum comes with useful attachments like a crevice tool and pet multi-tool, adding to its versatility. This vacuum is a robust option for carpet cleaning, particularly for pet owners, but those seeking a cordless or ultra-lightweight model might need to look elsewhere.