10 Best Vacuum Cleaners For Carpet 2025 in the United States

The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is a solid choice for those looking to clean carpets and other surfaces efficiently. One of its standout features is the lift-away functionality, which allows for easy cleaning of stairs and above-floor areas, making it versatile for different cleaning needs. Its powerful suction is effective on both carpets and bare floors, supported by a brush roll shutoff feature that lets you switch cleaning modes effortlessly.

The vacuum includes a HEPA filter and an anti-allergen complete seal technology to help trap dust and allergens, which is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers and pet owners. The inclusion of specialized attachments, such as a wide upholstery tool and a crevice tool, enhances its effectiveness for detailed cleaning tasks.

At 12.5 pounds, it strikes a good balance between being lightweight and powerful, although some users might still find it slightly cumbersome for extensive use, especially when compared to more compact options. Noise level at 80 dB is somewhat standard for vacuums in this range, which may be a consideration for sensitive users. This vacuum performs well on various surfaces and is particularly well-suited for pet owners and those needing a versatile vacuum for different floor types.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, is a solid choice for those looking for an effective vacuum cleaner specifically designed for carpets and multi-surface cleaning. Its powerful suction is one of its standout features, easily tackling dirt and debris on carpets while also performing well on bare floors. The lift-away functionality allows you to detach the pod, making it easy to clean hard-to-reach areas, including under furniture or on stairs, which adds to its versatility.

Another significant advantage is the anti-allergen complete seal technology combined with a HEPA filter, which is beneficial for allergy sufferers. This feature ensures that dust and allergens remain trapped inside the vacuum, promoting a cleaner environment. Additionally, the vacuum is equipped with useful attachments specifically for pet hair, making it an excellent option for pet owners.

However, there are a few points to consider. Weighing in at nearly 16 pounds, the vacuum may be on the heavier side for some users, potentially affecting maneuverability during extended cleaning sessions. While the swivel steering helps with navigation, the weight could still pose a challenge, especially when lifting it for above-floor cleaning. The noise level at 80 dB might also be a concern for those sensitive to sound, as it can be quite loud during operation. The dust cup capacity of 0.9 quarts is decent, allowing for longer cleaning sessions before needing to be emptied, but it’s just short of what some larger homes may require. Furthermore, the vacuum is corded, which limits portability compared to cordless models but does ensure consistent power.

The Shark StainStriker is a lightweight, portable cleaner designed mainly for tackling stains and spots on carpets, upholstery, and car interiors. Weighing under 9 pounds, it’s easy to carry and maneuver, which is great for quick stain removal wherever you need it. Its suction is ultra-powerful, which helps pull out deep-set dirt and pet messes effectively. Instead of a traditional brush roll, it uses specialized reversible bristle tools and attachments that target stains rather than general vacuuming.

The cleaner includes several handy tools like a pet hair extractor, crevice tool, and multiple stain eliminators, enhancing its versatility for different surfaces and tight spaces. It’s also bagless with a 2-liter capacity, making emptying straightforward. A notable feature is the dual-activated cleaning solution that mixes inside the unit, promising strong stain and odor removal, especially useful for pet owners.

This device is best seen as a spot cleaner rather than a full carpet vacuum—it won’t replace a regular vacuum with a motorized brush roll for general carpet maintenance. If you want a portable, easy-to-use tool focused on removing tough spots on carpets and fabrics, especially in cars and upholstery, the Shark StainStriker is a solid choice. For deep carpet cleaning or frequent large-area vacuuming, a traditional vacuum cleaner might still be necessary.