We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Carpet Vacuums 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

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.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark | Pet Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | LED Headlights | Removable Handheld Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Pet Multi-Tool Included | 40min Runtime | For Carpet & Hard Floors | Grey | IX141

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,244
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
13638 reviews

Suction Power
The suction power is impressive, especially on carpets and mats, picking up everything from small bits like cat litter to larger debris.
Weight and Maneuverability
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for quick clean-ups and hard-to-reach areas.
Noise Level
The vacuum is quiet enough that it doesn't disturb pets, which is a nice change from louder models.

The Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum IX141 offers several strong features for household cleaning, particularly if you have pets. Its HYPERVELOCITY SUCTION provides impressive suction power, capable of handling everyday messes and high-traffic areas. It also boasts a versatile design suitable for both carpets and hard floors, thanks to its bristle brushroll and powerful suction.

The removable handheld vacuum is a handy addition for above-floor cleaning tasks, making it a versatile tool for various cleaning needs around the house. The LED headlights are a useful feature, illuminating hidden debris, while the XL dust cup with a CleanTouch Dirt Ejector ensures easy and hygienic disposal of dirt and debris.

With a runtime of up to 40 minutes, you have ample time for thorough cleaning sessions, though this is measured without accessories in standard mode. The vacuum is lightweight at 6.89 pounds, which, combined with its low-profile design, enhances maneuverability under furniture. However, it might not be the best option for those looking for larger dust capacity, as it holds only 0.34 quarts. Also, the 240-minute charging time might be a bit long for some users. The noise level is at 80 dB, which is average but could be a bit loud for some users.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,244
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
13638 reviews

Suction Power
The suction power is impressive, especially on carpets and mats, picking up everything from small bits like cat litter to larger debris.
Weight and Maneuverability
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for quick clean-ups and hard-to-reach areas.
Noise Level
The vacuum is quiet enough that it doesn't disturb pets, which is a nice change from louder models.
#2

Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust Cup Capacity, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Crevice Tool, Blue, NV360

Rating
9.4
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Dust Capacity

Most important from
119755 reviews

Suction Power
The suction power is phenomenal, picking up everything on the first pass, including stubborn glitter from Christmas.
Weight and Maneuverability
This vacuum glides effortlessly on carpets and laminated floors, making cleaning feel like a breeze.
Dust Capacity
The dust cup needs frequent emptying due to the amount of debris it picks up, but it's a sign of its efficiency.
Noise Level
It's quieter than previous vacuums owned, which is a plus for apartment living.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 is a solid choice for anyone seeking an effective carpet vacuum. It boasts powerful suction, making it capable of deep-cleaning carpets and handling various floor types. The vacuum's lift-away functionality allows for versatile cleaning, letting you reach under furniture or clean upholstery with ease, which is especially beneficial for those with pets. Speaking of pets, the included upholstery and crevice tools enhance its capability to pick up pet hair, a common challenge for pet owners.

In terms of filtration, it features HEPA technology combined with anti-allergen complete seal, effectively trapping dust and allergens, making it a good option for allergy sufferers. The large dust cup capacity (0.9 quarts) ensures you can clean longer without frequent emptying, which many users appreciate.

On the downside, the vacuum weighs about 15.96 pounds, which may feel a bit heavy for some users during extended cleaning sessions. The noise level of 80 dB can be a concern if you prefer a quieter cleaning experience. Additionally, since it is not cordless, you will need to manage the cord while vacuuming, which may limit maneuverability in larger spaces. Maneuverability is aided by swivel steering, making it easier to navigate around furniture and corners, but it's still something to consider based on your living space. Lastly, assembly is required, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users, although it should be straightforward.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 stands out for its powerful performance and versatility, especially for pet owners and allergy sufferers, but users should weigh its weight and noise level against their cleaning needs.

Rating
9.4
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Dust Capacity

Most important from
119755 reviews

Suction Power
The suction power is phenomenal, picking up everything on the first pass, including stubborn glitter from Christmas.
Weight and Maneuverability
This vacuum glides effortlessly on carpets and laminated floors, making cleaning feel like a breeze.
Dust Capacity
The dust cup needs frequent emptying due to the amount of debris it picks up, but it's a sign of its efficiency.
Noise Level
It's quieter than previous vacuums owned, which is a plus for apartment living.
#3

Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | Swivel Steering | HEPA Filter | Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Dusting Brush Included | For Carpets & Hard Floors | White/Silver | NV356E

Rating
8.8
Suction Power
Filtration System
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
119755 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum reveals dirt and pet hair that other high-end models missed, demonstrating exceptional suction power that surprises even long-time vacuum users.
Filtration System
The HEPA filtration and sealed system effectively trap allergens and pet dander, providing noticeable relief for allergy sufferers.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its lift-away canister is lightweight and versatile, making it easy to clean stairs, baseboards, and hard-to-reach areas without strain.
Dust Capacity
The dustbin capacity is generous, but frequent emptying may be necessary when tackling heavily soiled areas due to strong suction.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments are thoughtfully stored onboard, adding convenience and versatility for cleaning tight spaces and delicate surfaces.
Noise Level
The vacuum operates at a moderate noise level, balancing power and sound without being overly disruptive during use.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is a solid choice if you’re looking for a vacuum that handles carpets and hard floors well. Its suction power is strong enough to tackle pet hair and deep-clean dander from upholstery, making it especially useful for pet owners. The HEPA filtration system works with a sealed design to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens, which is great if allergies are a concern.

Although it weighs about 13.7 pounds, which might feel a bit heavy for some, the swivel steering and Lift-Away feature make it easier to maneuver around furniture and clean stairs or above-floor areas. The dust cup holds a generous 0.87 liters, so you can clean longer before needing to empty it. It comes with helpful attachments like a crevice tool and dusting brush, which add versatility for tight spaces and delicate surfaces.

The vacuum operates at around 80 decibels, which is somewhat noisy compared to quieter models. It’s corded, so you won’t get the freedom of cordless movement, and it has only two speed settings, which may limit customization. With strong cleaning performance, HEPA filtration, and useful features, this vacuum suits households looking for reliable, allergen-conscious cleaning, especially where pet hair is a challenge.

Rating
8.8
Suction Power
Filtration System
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
119755 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum reveals dirt and pet hair that other high-end models missed, demonstrating exceptional suction power that surprises even long-time vacuum users.
Filtration System
The HEPA filtration and sealed system effectively trap allergens and pet dander, providing noticeable relief for allergy sufferers.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its lift-away canister is lightweight and versatile, making it easy to clean stairs, baseboards, and hard-to-reach areas without strain.
Dust Capacity
The dustbin capacity is generous, but frequent emptying may be necessary when tackling heavily soiled areas due to strong suction.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments are thoughtfully stored onboard, adding convenience and versatility for cleaning tight spaces and delicate surfaces.
Noise Level
The vacuum operates at a moderate noise level, balancing power and sound without being overly disruptive during use.

Buying Guide for the Best Carpet Vacuums

Choosing the right carpet vacuum can make a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. The right vacuum will effectively remove dirt, dust, and allergens, making your home healthier and more comfortable. When selecting a carpet vacuum, consider the following key specifications to ensure you pick the best fit for your needs.
Suction PowerSuction power is the measure of how effectively a vacuum can pick up dirt and debris from your carpet. This is important because stronger suction ensures that even deeply embedded dirt is removed. Suction power is often measured in watts or air watts. For light cleaning, a vacuum with lower suction power (around 100-200 air watts) may suffice. For homes with pets or high foot traffic, a higher suction power (200+ air watts) is recommended. Consider your carpet type and the amount of dirt it typically accumulates to determine the right suction power for you.
Filtration SystemThe filtration system in a vacuum determines how well it can trap dust, allergens, and other particles. This is crucial for maintaining indoor air quality, especially for those with allergies or asthma. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are the gold standard, capturing 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. If you have allergies or pets, opt for a vacuum with a HEPA filter. For general use, a standard filter may be sufficient, but ensure it is easy to clean or replace.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight and maneuverability of a vacuum affect how easy it is to use, especially if you have a large home or multiple floors. Lightweight vacuums (under 10 pounds) are easier to carry and maneuver, making them ideal for quick clean-ups and smaller spaces. Heavier vacuums (over 15 pounds) often have more powerful motors and larger dust capacities, suitable for thorough cleaning of larger areas. Consider your physical strength and the layout of your home when choosing the weight and maneuverability of your vacuum.
Dust CapacityDust capacity refers to the amount of dirt and debris a vacuum can hold before it needs to be emptied. This is important for convenience and efficiency, as larger capacities mean less frequent emptying. Bagless vacuums typically have transparent dust bins, making it easy to see when they need to be emptied, while bagged vacuums often have larger capacities and can be more hygienic to empty. For small apartments or occasional use, a smaller dust capacity (around 0.5 liters) may be sufficient. For larger homes or frequent use, look for a vacuum with a capacity of 1 liter or more.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories enhance the versatility of a vacuum, allowing you to clean various surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. Common attachments include crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair tools. These are important for tackling specific cleaning tasks, such as removing pet hair from furniture or cleaning tight corners. If you have pets, look for vacuums with specialized pet hair attachments. For general cleaning, a basic set of attachments will suffice. Consider the types of surfaces and areas you need to clean to determine which attachments are necessary for you.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a vacuum can affect your comfort and convenience, especially if you have young children, pets, or sensitive hearing. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB), with lower numbers indicating quieter operation. Vacuums with noise levels below 60 dB are considered very quiet, while those above 70 dB can be quite loud. If you prefer a quieter vacuum, look for models specifically designed for low noise. For general use, a moderate noise level (around 65-70 dB) is usually acceptable. Consider your household's tolerance for noise when choosing a vacuum.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now