10 Best Carpet Shampooers 2025 in the United States

The Hoover PowerScrub XL Pet Carpet Cleaner is designed to handle tough carpet and upholstery stains, especially useful for pet owners. Its 0.8-gallon tank is fairly generous, allowing you to clean larger areas before needing a refill. The machine weighs about 12.2 pounds, which is manageable for most users, though it might feel a bit heavy if you need to carry it around frequently. Its cleaning power comes from five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes that thoroughly lift dirt, while the HeatForce feature helps carpets dry faster after washing, which is a nice bonus to avoid damp carpets lingering.

This model offers versatile cleaning tools including a pet tool for stubborn messes and an upholstery tool, so it's not limited to floors. The 8-foot hose adds flexibility to reach furniture and stairs. It also has a Quick Clean mode for faster cleaning and drying in smaller spaces and an Auto Mix system that optimizes the detergent and water mix for better cleaning efficiency. However, it relies on specific Hoover cleaning solution pods, which can add to your ongoing cost.

Maintenance is straightforward with helpful features like a nozzle cleanout tool and a patented recovery tank that reduces stops to empty dirty water, making longer cleaning sessions easier. Being corded electric means continuous power but limits mobility compared to cordless models. Some users might find the size a bit bulky for storage. If you want a powerful, pet-friendly carpet shampooer that covers both carpets and upholstery with good drying speed, the Hoover PowerScrub XL is a strong choice. Just be aware of the need for proprietary cleaning solutions and its somewhat heavier weight if portability is a top priority.

The Shark CarpetXpert HairPro with StainStriker is a robust carpet shampooer designed for deep cleaning carpets, rugs, and upholstery. One of its standout features is the CarpetXpert technology, which combines a high-speed brushroll, high-pressure spray, and powerful suction for effective dirt and stain removal. This machine claims to dry carpets quickly, making it convenient for frequent use. The innovative HairPro technology excels at picking up pet hair, minimizing the hassle of hair entanglement and making clean-up straightforward with its Zero-Touch disposal system. Additionally, the inclusion of StainStriker technology offers significant stain-fighting power, particularly beneficial for pet owners dealing with tough stains and odors. The machine also comes with a handy selection of attachments for tackling various cleaning tasks, including a handheld spot cleaner for stairs and upholstery.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The Shark CarpetXpert weighs about 20.72 pounds, which can be a bit heavy for some users, especially when maneuvering across different surfaces. While its water tank capacity and drying time are decent, they may not be as generous as some larger models. Maintenance is generally made easier with the self-cleaning feature, but ensure to follow the guidelines for optimal performance.

The Shark CarpetXpert HairPro is an excellent choice for pet owners or anyone needing serious cleaning power for carpets and upholstery. It effectively combines advanced cleaning technologies and user-friendly features, although its weight might be a concern for those looking for a more lightweight option.

The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is designed with pet owners in mind, making it a strong contender in the carpet shampooer category. Its powerful 6.8 Amps motor and Dual Dirt Lifter PowerBrushes excel at tackling tough pet stains and odors, making it effective for deep cleaning carpets. Additionally, this model features two cleaning modes: the MAX Clean Mode for intense cleaning and an Express Clean Mode that allows carpets to dry in about 30 minutes, which is a great time-saver for busy households.

Another strength of this carpet cleaner is its 1-gallon water tank capacity, which means you can clean larger areas without frequent refills. The included attachments, such as the pet upholstery tool and tough stain tool, enhance its versatility, allowing you to clean various surfaces beyond just carpets.

The weight of 26.7 pounds may be a bit heavy for some users, which could affect maneuverability, especially in tight spaces or when carrying up stairs. While the 35-foot power cord offers ample reach, it’s important to manage the cord during use to avoid tripping. Additionally, while the unit is generally easy to maintain, users must remember to clean the dirty tank and accessories after each use to ensure optimal performance and longevity.