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

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 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 Eureka 3670M Canister Cleaner is a lightweight and powerful vacuum ideally suited for cleaning carpets and hard floors, including area rugs. Weighing only 8.6 pounds, it is easy to maneuver around the house, making it a good choice for those who need to carry the vacuum up and down stairs. The 1200-watt motor provides strong suction power, which is effective for deep cleaning area rugs and other surfaces.

Additionally, the vacuum comes with multiple attachments, including extension wands and specialty tools, allowing it to clean various types of surfaces and hard-to-reach places like under car seats and high ceilings. The dust bag has a 2.5-liter capacity, which means fewer bag changes and less maintenance hassle. The replaceable dust bag also helps in collecting dust and pet hair without creating a mess, which is convenient for pet owners.

However, the vacuum operates at a noise level of 90 dB, which might be quite loud for some users. Also, since it is a corded model, it limits mobility compared to cordless vacuums. The filtration system consists of a foam filter, which may not be as effective as HEPA filters in capturing tiny allergens. Despite these drawbacks, the Eureka 3670M Canister Cleaner is a strong performer in its category, particularly for those who prioritize suction power and lightweight design over noise level and corded operation.