10 Best Small Vacuum For Area Rugs 2025 in the United States

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe (NV360) is a solid choice if you need a vacuum primarily for area rugs and mixed floor types. It delivers powerful suction that can deep-clean carpets while also handling bare floors effectively, thanks to its brushroll shutoff feature, which protects delicate surfaces. The lift-away pod adds versatility, letting you clean stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach spots with ease.

Its swivel steering improves maneuverability around furniture, although at about 16 pounds, it’s somewhat heavy compared to lighter models designed specifically for small rugs. Filtration is a standout here, with a HEPA filter and anti-allergen seal technology that trap dust and allergens well, making it a good pick for allergy sufferers. The large 0.9-quart dust cup means fewer stops to empty during cleaning.

Being corded, it avoids battery limits but also restricts mobility somewhat and requires access to outlets. If you want a reliable, multi-surface vacuum with strong suction and excellent filtration for area rugs and beyond, and don’t mind a bit of weight or plug-in power, this model will serve you well.

The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is a versatile choice for small area rugs and other surfaces. It boasts strong suction power that effectively deep-cleans carpets and tackles bare floors with ease. The lift-away functionality is a standout feature, allowing you to detach the pod for cleaning stairs and above-floor areas, which adds to its versatility.

The brush roll shutoff feature is particularly useful, enabling you to switch between carpet and bare floor cleaning seamlessly. At 12.5 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver, especially with the swivel steering that helps navigate tight spaces and around furniture effortlessly. The vacuum also includes a HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, which are excellent for trapping dust and allergens, making it a good option for those with allergies.

However, it is a corded model, which might limit mobility compared to cordless options. Additionally, the noise level is 80 dB, which is moderate but not the quietest. The wide upholstery tool and crevice tool are handy for pet hair and hard-to-reach areas, enhancing its functionality. While some assembly is required, the vacuum is generally user-friendly. It includes a 5-year limited warranty, offering some peace of mind. This vacuum is ideal for those looking for a reliable, multi-functional vacuum suitable for various surfaces, including area rugs, carpets, stairs, and bare floors.

The Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum is a powerful and versatile choice for cleaning area rugs and other surfaces around your home. Its cordless feature allows for hassle-free maneuvering, making it easy to clean various spaces without being tethered to an outlet. With a strong suction power, the vacuum is equipped to handle deep cleaning tasks effectively, including picking up long hair and pet hair with its specialized Motorbar cleaner head and Hair screw tool.

The vacuum also offers three power modes, including an Auto mode that balances power and battery life, an Eco mode for extended run time, and a Boost mode for intensive cleaning sessions. The LCD screen is a helpful addition, providing real-time information on power modes, maintenance alerts, and remaining battery life. The advanced filtration system, which includes a HEPA filter, ensures that 99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns are trapped, resulting in cleaner expelled air.

Additionally, the vacuum is lightweight and easy to handle, which is a plus for users who need to clean various spaces, including cars, stairs, and upholstery. On the downside, the vacuum may be on the pricier side compared to other models in the market. Some users might also find the run time of up to 60 minutes insufficient for larger homes. However, for those with small to medium-sized areas and a focus on versatility and convenience, the Dyson V11 Origin is a strong contender.