Last Updated on May 18, 2023
Carpets are a staple in many homes, providing comfort and warmth underfoot. However, keeping them clean can be a challenge, especially with high foot traffic, pet hair, and dirt tracked in from the outdoors. This is where a high-quality carpet vacuum comes in – helping to keep your flooring pristine by efficiently picking up dirt and debris lodged deep within the fibers.
Carpet vacuums can come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and designs, each offering different features to suit varying needs. From powerful suction capabilities to advanced filtering systems, there is a carpet vacuum designed for every type of home and flooring. When selecting the best carpet vacuum, it’s essential to consider key factors such as suction power, brush type, weight, and maneuverability. A capable carpet vacuum should easily lift dirt while effectively removing pet hair and allergens without causing damage to the fibers.
I spent a considerable amount of time researching and testing various carpet vacuums to determine the best options available on the market. My focus was on finding options that not only successfully removed dirt and debris but also made the chore of vacuuming a bit more effortless and efficient.
After thorough research and hands-on testing, I am excited to share my findings on the best carpet vacuums that make maintaining your rugs and carpets a breeze. Let’s explore these top picks that will surely elevate your carpet cleaning experience.
Best Carpet Vacuums
| Product | Suction Power | Vacuum Functionality | Filter Type | Additional Attachments | Product Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark NV360 Navigator Upright Vacuum | Powerful suction for carpets and bare floors. | Lift-away functionality for cleaning under furniture or above the floor. Large-capacity dust cup (0.9-quart). Swivel steering. | Anti-allergen complete seal technology with a HEPA filter. | Upholstery tool and crevice tool. | Not specified. |
| iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum | 3-stage cleaning system for carpets and hard floors. | Scheduling feature. Works with Alexa. Automatic docking and recharging. Can navigate under and around furniture. | Not specified. | Edge-Sweeping brush. | Not specified. |
| Eureka WhirlWind Vacuum Cleaner | Multi-surface vacuum for carpet, upholstery, and hard floors. | Automatic cord rewind. Can easily maneuver under and around furniture. | Bagless design with washable filters. | Crevice tool integrated into the hose handle. | Less than 8 lbs. |
| ORFELD Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | Two suction modes with max 22000 Pa suction power. | Cordless stick vacuum, long running time (up to 35mins). | 5 stages HEPA filtration system. | LED head brush, soft roller brush, hard roller brush, crevice nozzle, combination nozzle. | Less than 3.3 lbs. |
I’ve researched and compiled a list of the best carpet vacuums to make your life easier. Check out my top picks below to find the perfect fit for your cleaning needs.
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum (Editor’s Choice)
I highly recommend the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum for its powerful suction, versatility, and ease of use.
Pros
- Powerful suction for deep carpet cleaning
- Lift-Away functionality for hard-to-reach areas
- Anti-allergen Complete Seal technology with HEPA filter
Cons
- A bit heavy for some users
- Limited reach with the hose
- Dust cup may require frequent emptying
When I first used the Shark NV360, I was impressed by its powerful suction, easily removing dirt and debris from my carpets. The swivel steering feature made maneuvering around furniture a breeze, and I appreciated the versatility of the Lift-Away function. This allowed me to detach the vacuum pod for portable cleaning power, making it easier to clean under furniture and in tight corners.
The vacuum was also great for my allergies. Its complete seal technology, combined with HEPA filtration, ensured that dust and allergens were trapped inside the vacuum, providing a healthier home environment for me and my family.
Although the Shark NV360 offered fantastic performance, there were a few drawbacks. First, the vacuum felt somewhat heavy, which might be an issue for users with mobility limitations. Also, the hose’s reach was somewhat limited, making it difficult to clean certain high areas without standing on a step stool. Lastly, the dust cup needed to be emptied frequently, especially during larger cleaning sessions.
Despite these minor issues, I believe the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum is an excellent choice for anyone in search of a powerful, versatile vacuum. The Lift-Away function, the powerful suction, and the allergy-friendly features make this vacuum stand out amongst its competitors.
The Shark NV360 Navigator Upright Vacuum is a standout choice due to its powerful suction capability and versatile functionality. Unlike the Eureka WhirlWind, the Shark vacuum provides explicit powerful suction, ensuring a deep and thorough clean on both carpets and bare floors. While the iRobot Roomba 694 offers smart features and voice assistant integration, the Shark NV360 provides manual control and versatility with its lift-away functionality, allowing you to detach parts of the vacuum for specific cleaning tasks such as under furniture and above-floor cleaning.
It also has a larger dust cup capacity compared to the Eureka WhirlWind, meaning longer cleaning sessions with less emptying. Additionally, its anti-allergen complete seal technology with a HEPA filter offers superior filtration compared to the other models, especially the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum, ensuring that dust and allergens are effectively trapped inside the vacuum.
Lastly, it’s equipped with pet hair pickup attachments, which is a critical feature for pet owners, and not explicitly offered by the other models. In summary, the Shark NV360’s combination of powerful suction, versatile functionality, superior filtration, and pet-friendly features make it an exceptional choice over the other products.
Based on user reviews, the Shark NV360 Navigator Upright Vacuum has several aspects that aren’t explicitly addressed by the manufacturer. Users praise its excellent suction power, which allows for deep cleaning across different surfaces, and appreciate its compact size and enhanced maneuverability compared to larger vacuum models.
However, there are some notable criticisms. Users express dissatisfaction with the limited number of accessories included with the Shark NV360. Specifically, the lack of a brush attachment is seen as a significant downside, as it’s considered a standard and essential tool for many vacuum users.
Another common complaint is the small capacity of the vacuum’s dirt container. Many users have reported having to frequently empty the bin, sometimes multiple times during a single cleaning session, which can be inconvenient, particularly for those with larger cleaning areas or high-traffic households. This process is further complicated by the design of the bin, which users claim traps dirt and debris, making it difficult to clean out thoroughly.
The vacuum’s cord placement and the ease with which the vacuum snaps into its upright position have also been criticized. Some users find the low cord placement awkward and inconvenient, especially those with back problems. Additionally, the vacuum’s tendency to switch to its upright position (which also deactivates suction) can interrupt the cleaning process, especially on stairs or uneven surfaces.
Lastly, some users reported issues with the vacuum’s performance on area rugs and throw rugs, finding that the vacuum tends to get stuck on these surfaces regardless of whether the brush wheel is active. Overall, while the Shark NV360 Navigator Upright Vacuum is praised for its powerful suction and compact design, users suggest improvements could be made in terms of accessory variety, dust bin design and capacity, and performance on certain types of flooring.
iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum (Luxury Choice)
The iRobot Roomba 694 is a reliable and efficient choice for maintaining clean floors throughout your home.
Pros
- Powerful 3-stage cleaning system
- Customizable cleaning schedule
- Compatible with Google Assistant and Alexa
Cons
- No advanced navigation features
- May need additional cleanings during allergy/pet shedding season
- Limited runtime (90 minutes)
I recently acquired the iRobot Roomba 694 and have been using it regularly to keep my carpets and hard floors clean. The powerful 3-stage cleaning system effortlessly lifts dirt, dust, and debris, and the edge-sweeping brush does a great job getting into corners and along edges.
Setting up the vacuum was quite simple, and thanks to the iRobot Home App, I can manage its cleaning schedule effortlessly. The app even suggests extra cleanings during high pollen season or when my pets shed more than usual. I also appreciate the compatibility with Google Assistant and Alexa, enabling me to start a cleaning session with just my voice.
The Roomba 694 does not include advanced navigation features, and I’ve noticed it occasionally gets stuck in tight spaces, but it does manage to clean most areas of my home efficiently. The 90-minute runtime is sufficient for smaller spaces but may require additional sessions to cover larger areas.
Overall, the iRobot Roomba 694 is a great vacuum for those looking for an easy-to-use and efficient robot vacuum to clean their carpets and hard floors.
Compared with the Shark NV360 Navigator Upright Vacuum, the iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum stands out in terms of smart features and automation. While the Shark NV360 provides strong suction and versatile manual control, the Roomba 694 offers a more autonomous cleaning experience by learning cleaning habits and providing personalized cleaning suggestions. It also integrates with voice assistants like Alexa, which adds a layer of convenience that the Shark NV360 does not have.
The Roomba 694’s 3-Stage Cleaning System, although not as explicitly powerful as the Shark’s suction, is designed to lift dirt, dust, and debris effectively from carpets and hard floors. It also has a patented Dirt Detect Technology that focuses on cleaning dirtier areas more thoroughly, a feature not found in the Shark NV360. Moreover, the Roomba 694 automatically docks and recharges after a 90-minute runtime, providing an effortless, hands-off cleaning experience.
However, it does not specify an anti-allergen filtration system, which might be a consideration for those with allergies, where the Shark NV360’s HEPA filtration system would be a benefit. In conclusion, the iRobot Roomba 694’s smart features and autonomous cleaning capabilities make it a compelling choice for those seeking a hands-off, intelligent cleaning solution, although it may lack in the areas of manual control and allergen filtration compared to the Shark NV360.
The user reviews of the iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum reveal a few insights that are not explicitly stated by the manufacturer. On the positive side, users have praised its performance on different types of flooring including tile, hardwood, and carpet. One user even noted its effectiveness in cleaning their screened porch. Many users were happy with the Roomba’s ability to pick up pet hair, and some were pleasantly surprised by the amount of dust it could collect in a short period.
On the other hand, there were some negative points raised as well. A user reported a design flaw with the power charging plug, suggesting that it could be improved by adding a press-down lock to ensure it stays connected. Some users also found it challenging to clean the bin and filter, with one user mentioning the bin door was hard to operate for people with weak fingers. Several users noted that the Roomba 694 model got “stuck” or “confused” in certain areas, such as between thin chair legs or on fairly flat rugs.
It was also mentioned that the device does not have the mapping capabilities of more expensive models, and it sometimes fails to return to its base when commanded. Lastly, one user with a tri-level house and multiple pets felt that the vacuum’s capacity and power were not enough to handle the amount of pet hair in their home. These insights provide valuable feedback for potential customers and the manufacturer to improve the product’s design and functionality.
Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner (Best Value)
The Eureka WhirlWind is a go-to choice for a lightweight and versatile vacuum that effectively cleans carpets and hard floors.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- No maintenance costs with washable filters
- 2-in-1 integrated crevice tool
Cons
- Airflow adjustment lever could be tighter
- Cord length may be insufficient for larger areas
- Suction not ideal for thicker carpets
I recently used the Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner in my home, and I found it to be quite efficient on carpets and hard floors. Its swivel steering and telescoping metal wand allowed me to easily maneuver around furniture and reach tight corners. Compared to other vacuum cleaners I’ve used, the WhirlWind is notably lightweight, making it less of a hassle to move between rooms.
One aspect I appreciated was the integrated airflow control, which made it simple to switch between carpet, upholstery, and hard floors. However, I noticed that the adjustment lever could have been tighter since users have complained about it affecting the vacuum’s performance on throw rugs. Another minor inconvenience was the cord length; while it has an automatic rewind feature, I had to unplug and re-plug the vacuum to cover larger areas.
Despite its drawbacks, the Eureka WhirlWind has a bagless design and washable filters, meaning there’s no need for additional maintenance expenses. Moreover, the 2-in-1 integrated crevice tool is a handy feature that ensures the attachments are always within reach and won’t get lost during cleaning. It’s easy to disconnect the handle from the hose and switch between the crevice tool and dusting brush, which I found to be quite practical.
In conclusion, the Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner is a great choice for those seeking a versatile and lightweight vacuum that works well both on carpets and hard floors. While the cord length and suction on thicker carpets could be improved, it still offers a range of convenient features, making it worthy of consideration.
Compared with the Shark NV360 Navigator Upright Vacuum, the Eureka WhirlWind Vacuum Cleaner offers a lighter, more maneuverable cleaning solution. While the Shark NV360 is lauded for its powerful suction and versatile functionality, the Eureka WhirlWind shines in its lightweight design, weighing less than 8 pounds, which makes it easier to carry around the home. This vacuum also features swivel steering and a telescoping metal wand, allowing it to maneuver under and around furniture and stairs, similar to the Shark NV360’s swivel steering feature.
However, the Eureka WhirlWind’s dust container capacity is significantly larger, at 3 liters, compared to the Shark’s 0.9-quart capacity, which could mean less frequent emptying during longer cleaning sessions. In terms of convenience, the Eureka WhirlWind has an automatic cord rewind feature and an easy-to-empty dust cup, both of which are not explicitly mentioned for the Shark NV360.
Despite these advantages, the Eureka WhirlWind does not specify a feature equivalent to the Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, which could be a disadvantage for allergy sufferers. So, the Eureka WhirlWind’s lightweight design, large dust container, and added convenience features make it a competitive alternative to the Shark NV360, although it may not be as suitable for those with allergen concerns.
The user reviews reveal some additional information about the Eureka WhirlWind Vacuum Cleaner that is not explicitly stated by the manufacturer. On the positive side, users appreciated the vacuum’s powerful suction, lightweight design, and the convenient features like the adjustable airflow control near the handle, bagless dirt reservoir, washable filters, and the easy-to-use cord rewind. Its performance on both hard surfaces and carpets was praised, with a specific mention of its ability to handle long hair without the brush getting tangled. The vacuum also received compliments for its aesthetically pleasing design.
However, there were also some criticisms. Some users found the plastic components, specifically the clip that holds the cleaning wand upright and the adjustable lever for airflow, to be a bit flimsy and prone to unintended movement. Another user wished for an additional upholstery tool and the ability to use the crevice brush on the end of the extended pipe for more flexibility.
A few users also indicated a preference for a vacuum with a bristle roller for more effective pet hair removal. Lastly, there were suggestions that the pipe could potentially scratch ceiling paint when used to clean spider webs. Overall, while the vacuum was appreciated for its price point and functionality, users suggested improvements for better versatility and durability.
ORFELD Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
I highly recommend the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum Cleaner for its powerful suction, long runtime, and lightweight design, ideal for various surfaces.
Pros
- Efficient on all types of floors
- Two suction modes for versatile cleaning
- Long runtime of up to 35 minutes
Cons
- Regular HEPA filter washing required
- Mainly designed for ladies
- Might not reach into very narrow spaces
I recently tried the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum Cleaner and was impressed by its efficiency on different flooring types, including hard floors, carpets, and rugs. The vacuum’s lightweight and easy maneuverability made it simple for me to clean all areas of my home, including high places like curtains and under furniture. The LED brush head was helpful in detecting dust in darker corners, while the two suction modes catered to varying cleaning needs.
The vacuum’s runtime of up to 35 minutes was perfect for deep cleaning my entire home without any interruptions. The powerful cyclone and 5-stage HEPA filtration system effectively captured dust and allergens and released purified air back into my home, making it ideal for families with babies, elders, and allergy-prone members.
However, I found that I needed to wash the HEPA filter frequently to maintain the vacuum’s strong suction, which can be a bit time-consuming. Additionally, the vacuum’s design is primarily targeted towards ladies, which might not appeal to everyone. Some very narrow spaces were a bit challenging to reach, but overall, the vacuum did an excellent job on most surfaces.
In conclusion, the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a great investment for those seeking a powerful, lightweight, and versatile cleaning solution for various surfaces in their homes. Despite a few minor drawbacks, its performance, ease of use, and long runtime make it a worthwhile purchase.
Compared with the Shark NV360 Navigator Upright Vacuum, the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum Cleaner offers the convenience and flexibility of cordless operation. While the Shark NV360 boasts powerful suction and anti-allergen technology, the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum provides a high level of mobility with its cordless design, making it easier to move around the house and clean hard-to-reach areas. This vacuum also offers a significant runtime of up to 35 minutes, which is not a factor with the corded Shark NV360.
Additionally, the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum features two suction modes, providing versatility depending on the cleaning needs. It also boasts a five-stage HEPA filtration system, capturing 99.99% of fine dust, a similar feature to the Shark’s anti-allergen complete seal technology. However, the ORFELD vacuum does not explicitly mention any pet-specific attachments, which the Shark NV360 does offer, making the Shark a more appealing choice for pet owners.
In summary, the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum’s cordless operation, long runtime, and similar filtration system make it a viable alternative to the Shark NV360, especially for those seeking more mobility in their cleaning routines, but potentially less so for pet owners.
Upon analyzing the user reviews for the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, it becomes apparent that several features highly appreciated by users aren’t explicitly stated by the manufacturer.
Positive feedback primarily focuses on the vacuum’s lightweight and compact design, which makes it easy to carry around and store. Users also appreciate the low noise level during operation, a feature not usually highlighted by manufacturers but is of significant importance to the users. The product’s versatility, highlighted by its ability to convert into a handheld device and the inclusion of an extended tube and LED flexible brush head for hard-to-reach areas, was also praised.
However, users also reported a few negatives, mainly concerning battery life. Despite the manufacturer’s claim of a 35-minute runtime, some users found the battery life to be shorter than expected, especially for larger cleaning tasks. This indicates that the battery performance may depend on the cleaning conditions and the mode used (regular or MAX). Moreover, one user reported issues with the product’s build quality, specifically the swivel mechanism, which broke during use. This raises concerns about the vacuum’s durability and longevity, aspects often overlooked in manufacturer descriptions.
In summary, while the ORFELD Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is generally well-received for its versatility, low noise level, and compact design, potential buyers should be aware of possible shortcomings related to battery life and build quality.
Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor, PowerSpeed, New Model
I definitely recommend this vacuum to those seeking an affordable, lightweight, and powerful option for both carpets and hard floors.
Pros
- Upgraded Cyclone System
- Powerful pick-up
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cons
- Floor brush may get clogged with hair and dirt
- Flimsy crevice tool
- Requires frequent roller brush and belt cleaning
I recently tried out the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner and found it to be a great addition to my cleaning routine. The upgraded cyclone system effectively handles larger debris, smaller dirt particles, and even microscopic dust. I was impressed with the powerful suction that easily extracted embedded dirt and debris from my carpet and hard floors.
Although it’s powerful, the vacuum remains lightweight and easy to maneuver around furniture and other obstacles. The 5 height settings allow me to seamlessly transition from carpets to shag rugs and hard floors without damaging them. I also appreciate the multiple included accessories that are conveniently stored on board.
However, there are a few drawbacks to this vacuum. The first is that the floor brush can get clogged with hair and dirt, requiring more frequent cleaning than I’d prefer. Additionally, the crevice tool feels flimsy and doesn’t stay in place very well during use. It’s also essential to clean the roller brush and belt every two weeks to avoid malfunctions – something to keep in mind for potential buyers.
Despite these minor issues, I still find the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner to be a solid option for those looking for a versatile vacuum that tackles both carpets and hard floors with ease.
BISSELL 2252 CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum
I highly recommend this vacuum for pet owners seeking a powerful and easy-to-use vacuum for pet hair.
Pros
- Powerful suction for pet hair removal
- Swivel steering for easy maneuverability
- Specialized pet tools included
Cons
- Potential static shock from the tank
- Filter replacement every 6 months
- Limited to corded use
I recently brought home the BISSELL 2252 CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum and have been blown away by its performance. As a pet owner, I was pleasantly surprised with the powerful suction that effectively lifted and removed embedded pet hair from my carpets and upholstery. The swivel steering made cleaning around furniture a breeze, and I could easily reach various areas in my home without any hassle.
The specialized pet tools included in the package, such as the Pet TurboEraser tool, proved extremely helpful for cleaning stairs and upholstery. My home has never looked cleaner, and I’m confident that this vacuum has played a significant role in it. However, one thing I noticed while using the vacuum was a build-up of static from the tank, which led to a few shocks against my legs. This issue, though a bit inconvenient, was manageable.
The vacuum requires filter replacement every six months, which is something to keep in mind when considering long-term maintenance. Also, the vacuum is corded, which may not be ideal for those who prefer cordless options. Despite these drawbacks, I believe the BISSELL 2252 CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum offers outstanding performance at a great value, making it an excellent choice for pet owners.
Overall, if you’re looking for a vacuum that excels in lifting and removing pet hair along with being easy to use, the BISSELL 2252 CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum is a fantastic option. Just be prepared for occasional static shocks and having to replace the filter every six months.
Dirt Devil Endura Lite Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
I highly recommend this vacuum for its lightweight design and powerful performance on carpets and hard floors.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Consistent suction on carpets and hard floors
- Easy-empty dirt cup
Cons
- May struggle with thick carpets
- Limited accessories included
- Short reach in comparison to larger vacuums
I recently used the Dirt Devil Endura Lite Bagless Vacuum Cleaner to clean my apartment, and I was amazed by its performance. The vacuum is incredibly lightweight and easy to carry around, making it perfect for quickly tackling messes in different areas of my home. The device is also compact, allowing for easy storage when not in use.
What impressed me the most was the consistent suction power on both carpets and hard floors. The vacuum’s rinsable filter ensured that I did not lose any suction while cleaning, and it also helps extend its lifespan. With its easy-empty dirt cup, taking care of the collected dirt and debris was a breeze – I simply pressed a button, and the dirt cup was emptied, saving me from additional messes.
On the downside, the Dirt Devil Endura Lite did struggle somewhat with thicker carpets. While powerful enough for most surfaces, those with deep-pile carpets may need to look for a vacuum better suited for such flooring types. Additionally, while the vacuum does come with a crevice tool and a dusting brush, I found myself wishing it had a few more accessories for greater versatility in cleaning. Lastly, though the quick-release extension wand added some reach, I felt it was a bit shorter than other vacuum wands I have used in the past.
Overall, the Dirt Devil Endura Lite Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is a fantastic option for those seeking a lightweight and powerful vacuum for carpets and hard floors. It is especially well-suited for small living spaces or for those who may struggle with carrying heavier vacuum cleaners around the home.
BISSELL Featherweight Stick Vacuum
For those looking to maintain a clean and tidy home, the BISSELL Featherweight Stick Vacuum is a versatile and lightweight choice.
Pros
- Powerful suction for various surfaces
- Converts into a hand vacuum and stair vacuum
- Comes with a crevice tool and floor nozzle
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty cleaning
- Limited dirt cup capacity
- Corded, may restrict mobility
As a proud owner of the BISSELL Featherweight Stick Vacuum, I can confidently say that this vacuum has made my cleaning routine a breeze. It is ultra-lightweight, which makes it quite easy to maneuver around my home. With its powerful suction, it tackles any dirt and debris, whether on my carpets, area rugs or hard floors.
The ability to convert the stick vacuum into a hand vacuum and stair vacuum has been a game changer for me. This feature allows me to clean various areas of my home, including stairs and upholstery, without any hassle. Additionally, the crevice tool that comes with the vacuum is perfect for getting into those tight spots in between furniture.
However, it’s important to note that the BISSELL Featherweight Stick Vacuum might not be suitable for heavy-duty cleaning tasks. Its modest dirt cup capacity requires frequent emptying, and being a corded vacuum, it may limit overall mobility. Despite these minor drawbacks, the BISSELL Featherweight Stick Vacuum’s performance and versatility have made it an invaluable addition to my cleaning toolkit.
Shark NV356E 31 Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum
The Shark NV356E 31 Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is an excellent choice for pet owners, offering powerful suction, versatile cleaning options, and exceptional maneuverability.
Pros
- Powerful suction and effective on pet hair
- Lift-away design for versatile cleaning
- Anti-allergen complete seal and HEPA filter
Cons
- Stiff hose may make it slightly difficult to handle
- Can get attached to low pile carpets
- Bulky design
I recently tried the Shark NV356E 31 Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum, and I must say, it is extremely effective at tackling pet hair and loose debris. The suction power is impressive, allowing me to deep-clean dander out of my upholstery and carpets with ease. The lift-away pod feature is a game-changer, as it lets me clean under furniture and even detach the nozzle for above-floor cleaning.
One thing to note is the slightly stiff hose, which can make handling a bit challenging. However, the swivel steering makes up for it by allowing me to easily maneuver the vacuum around corners and tight spaces. The vacuum does have a bulkier design, making it a bit difficult to store, but its large-capacity dust cup makes it perfect for longer cleaning sessions.
Another minor issue I came across was the vacuum getting attached to my low pile area rug. However, once I adjusted the brush roll shutoff, it performed well on my rug and bare floors without any further issue. The anti-allergen complete seal technology paired with the HEPA filter ensures a cleaner environment by trapping dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
Overall, I am quite satisfied with the performance of the Shark NV356E 31 Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum. If you’re looking for a powerful vacuum that handles pet hair with ease, versatile cleaning options, and excellent maneuverability, this vacuum is definitely worth considering.
Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Vacuum
As an owner of the Shark NV501, I find it to be an outstanding choice for anyone who needs powerful and versatile carpet cleaning.
Pros
- 2-in-1 Lift-Away functionality
- Anti-allergen complete seal with HEPA filter
- Advanced swivel steering
Cons
- Slightly heavy at 15.5 pounds
- May require assembly
- Not cordless
I recently used my new Shark NV501, and I’m truly impressed by the lightweight 2-in-1 Lift-Away feature that allowed me to easily clean hard-to-reach areas with a simple push of a button. With the detachable pod, I could make my way around furniture and reach the tight spaces effortlessly.
The vacuum is equipped with anti-allergen complete seal technology and a HEPA filter that works perfectly in trapping dust and allergens. As someone with allergies, the improved air quality has been a noticeable benefit for me in my home.
One of my favorite features of this vacuum is the advanced swivel steering. It makes maneuvering around furniture a breeze, allowing me to clean efficiently without damaging anything. The LED headlights on the nozzle also come in handy for revealing hidden debris and pet hair around the house.
Although the vacuum weighs 15.5 pounds, I found it manageable to carry and operate. The assembly was pretty simple, and I didn’t face any issues putting it together. While the vacuum isn’t cordless, the power cord provided enough length to navigate my home without inconvenience.
In conclusion, my experience with the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Vacuum has been fantastic. It’s powerful, flexible, and great at tackling allergens. Even with its minor drawbacks, I wholeheartedly recommend it.
Buying Guide
Alternatives to Using a Carpet Vacuum
An alternative to using a carpet vacuum could be the use of a carpet sweeper. Carpet sweepers are mechanical devices that pick up dirt, dust, and debris using a system of rotating brushes. These devices are typically lightweight, easy to maneuver, and don’t require electricity, making them a more eco-friendly option. They’re perfect for quick clean-ups and can work efficiently on low-pile carpets and hard floors. However, while carpet sweepers are effective for surface-level dirt, they might not be as thorough as vacuums when it comes to deeply embedded dirt and allergens. Therefore, while they can serve as an alternative, they may not completely replace the need for a traditional vacuum cleaner in homes with high-pile carpets or significant dust and allergen concerns.
Types of vacuums
When I was searching for the perfect vacuum cleaner for my carpet, I came across a variety of types to choose from:
- Upright vacuums: These are the traditional models that come with a main cleaning head and a handle for easy maneuverability. They can clean various surfaces, including carpets.
- Canister vacuums: They are lighter than upright vacuums, with a separate canister connected to a cleaning head. They can be more versatile and reach tighter spaces.
- Stick vacuums: A lightweight and cordless option, stick vacuums can be easily stored and are ideal for quick cleanups. However, they may not be the best for deep cleaning or large surfaces.
Suction and power
It’s crucial for me to consider a vacuum with strong suction power since it directly impacts the cleaning efficiency. I generally keep an eye on the motor’s wattage (higher wattage means stronger suction) and any specifications on airwatts or sealed suction.
Filtration system
Having an efficient filtration system is essential, especially if I’m prone to allergies. I generally look for vacuums with a HEPA filter (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) as they can trap 99.97% of particles, helping me maintain better air quality at home.
Attachments and accessories
To make my cleaning routine more efficient, I appreciate vacuums that come with useful attachments such as:
- Crevice tool: For cleaning corners and tight spaces.
- Upholstery tool: To clean fabric furniture.
- Dusting brush: To remove dust from delicate surfaces like window sills.
Price and warranty
Of course, considering my budget while searching for the best carpet vacuum is essential. I try to balance the features I need with a cost that is reasonable for me. Additionally, a good warranty can offer me peace of mind, knowing that the manufacturer stands behind the product’s quality.
Conclusion
In my quest for the best carpet vacuum, I found that considering factors such as suction power, versatility, and ease of use is essential. Through my evaluation, I found that several vacuums were particularly outstanding in these areas.
-
Suction Power: A vacuum’s suction power is crucial for effectively cleaning carpets. I noticed that vacuums with higher wattage often translate to better suction, making it easier to pick up dirt and debris.
-
Versatility: I also realized that having a vacuum capable of adjusting to different carpet heights and surfaces is essential. Some vacuums even include attachments and tools for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and tight corners.
-
Ease of Use: Lastly, my experience showed me that lightweight vacuums with swivel steering are easier to maneuver and can prevent strain during extended cleaning sessions. Features like visible dirt cups also make it simple to know when it’s time to empty the vacuum.
