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10 Best Vacuum For Thick Carpets 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,271
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
119832 reviews

Suction Power
The suction is powerful enough to pick up dirt on the lowest level.
Weight and Maneuverability
This vacuum is powerful, lightweight, and offers great value for money.
Noise Level
It is quieter than previous vacuums, which is a plus for apartment living.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, is a solid choice for anyone looking to clean thick carpets effectively. Its powerful suction ensures that dirt and debris, even pet hair, are pulled from deep within carpet fibers. The brush roll can be easily switched off for cleaning bare floors, making it versatile for different surfaces. The vacuum’s design allows it to adapt well to various carpet types.

One standout feature is the Lift-Away functionality, enabling users to detach the pod to reach under furniture or clean stairs and upholstery comfortably. It also boasts a generous 0.9-quart dust cup, which means you can clean larger areas without needing to stop frequently to empty it.

The vacuum’s anti-allergen complete seal technology paired with a HEPA filter is a major plus, especially for allergy sufferers. This system traps dust and allergens effectively, ensuring cleaner air during your cleaning sessions. The swivel steering makes it easier to navigate around furniture and tight spaces, enhancing maneuverability.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. Weighing in at about 15.96 pounds, it may be a bit heavy for some users, especially during extended cleaning sessions. The noise level is also on the higher side at 80 dB, which might be a concern if you're sensitive to sound. As it's a corded model, mobility can be limited compared to cordless options.

This vacuum excels in suction power and versatility, making it a reliable option for cleaning thick carpets and various surfaces. It’s particularly beneficial for pet owners and those with allergies, while the weight and noise could be potential downsides for some users.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,271
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
119832 reviews

Suction Power
The suction is powerful enough to pick up dirt on the lowest level.
Weight and Maneuverability
This vacuum is powerful, lightweight, and offers great value for money.
Noise Level
It is quieter than previous vacuums, which is a plus for apartment living.
#2

Shark Upright Vacuum, Stratos with DuoClean PowerFins, HairPro, Powered Lift-Away, Self-Cleaning Brushroll, & Odor Neutralizer Technology, Navy, AZ3002

Rating
7.9
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
9632 reviews

Suction Power
Ultra-powerful suction effortlessly lifts dirt and pet hair, leaving carpets feeling clean and soft.
Brush Roll
The dual brushroll system prevents hair tangling, making it ideal for homes with multiple pets.
Weight and Maneuverability
The vacuum glides smoothly over thick carpets and hard floors, with a swivel head that aids maneuverability.
Bagged vs. Bagless
The dustbin empties easily and hygienically, though occasional manual removal of trapped hair near the bin is needed.

The Shark Stratos Upright Vacuum is a solid choice for homes with thick carpets thanks to its ultra-powerful suction and DuoClean PowerFins system. These two brush rolls work together to dig deep into carpet fibers, removing dirt, debris, and pet hair effectively. The self-cleaning brushroll is a big plus if you struggle with hair wrap, making maintenance easier. It also includes height adjustment suited for carpets, which might require some trial to find the best setting for very thick rugs.

Weighing about 16.7 pounds, it’s moderately heavy but the Powered Lift-Away feature helps by letting you detach the cleaning pod for easier reach under furniture and above-floor cleaning. The vacuum uses a HEPA filter combined with an anti-allergen seal to trap nearly all dust and allergens, which benefits allergy sufferers. It’s a bagless model with a 1.48-quart dust cup that’s simple to empty without mess. Additional features like LED headlights help spot hidden dirt, and an odor neutralizer keeps the vacuum fresh inside.

This vacuum is corded, so you won’t have cordless freedom but you do get consistent power. Shark vacuums are generally moderate in sound. If you want a vacuum that handles thick carpets well, picks up pet hair without hassle, and offers hygienic filtration, this model stands out. However, if you prefer something lighter or cordless, you might consider other options.

Rating
7.9
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
9632 reviews

Suction Power
Ultra-powerful suction effortlessly lifts dirt and pet hair, leaving carpets feeling clean and soft.
Brush Roll
The dual brushroll system prevents hair tangling, making it ideal for homes with multiple pets.
Weight and Maneuverability
The vacuum glides smoothly over thick carpets and hard floors, with a swivel head that aids maneuverability.
Bagged vs. Bagless
The dustbin empties easily and hygienically, though occasional manual removal of trapped hair near the bin is needed.
#3

Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter, Anti-Allergen Technology, Swivel Steering, Ideal for Carpet, Stairs, & Bare Floors, with Wide Upholstery & Crevice Tools, Lavender

Rating
7.9
Suction Power
Height Adjustment
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
119832 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum delivers astonishing suction power, pulling out dirt and pet hair that other high-end vacuums missed, even after recent cleaning.
Height Adjustment
While the vacuum lacks manual height adjustment, its strong suction compensates well for deep cleaning thick carpets.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its lightweight design and swivel steering make it effortless to maneuver around furniture and up stairs, reducing fatigue during cleaning.
Filtration System
The vacuum’s filtration system effectively traps allergens and eliminates dust odors, providing noticeable relief for allergy and asthma sufferers.

The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away vacuum is a solid choice for homes with thick carpets. It offers strong suction powered by a 1.61 horsepower motor, which helps to clean deep into carpet fibers. The brush roll can be turned off when switching to hard floors, which is useful for protecting delicate surfaces. However, it doesn’t have a manual height adjustment feature, which some thick carpet owners may miss for fine-tuning the cleaning depth.

Weighing about 12.5 pounds, it’s relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver thanks to swivel steering, making it less tiring to push around, especially in tight spaces or on stairs. The detachable Lift-Away pod is a handy feature for above-floor cleaning like furniture and stairs. It uses a bagless system with washable HEPA and foam filters, which are great for trapping allergens and dust — a bonus for allergy sufferers. Noise level is moderate at around 80 decibels, so it’s not the quietest vacuum but not overly loud either. The vacuum includes pet hair attachments, which is helpful if you have pets on thick carpets.

One downside is the single power level, which means you can’t adjust suction strength based on carpet thickness or cleaning needs. This vacuum is well-suited for users who want a versatile, easy-to-use vacuum with good suction and allergen control, although those needing precise height adjustment or quieter operation might consider other options.

Rating
7.9
Suction Power
Height Adjustment
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
119832 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum delivers astonishing suction power, pulling out dirt and pet hair that other high-end vacuums missed, even after recent cleaning.
Height Adjustment
While the vacuum lacks manual height adjustment, its strong suction compensates well for deep cleaning thick carpets.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its lightweight design and swivel steering make it effortless to maneuver around furniture and up stairs, reducing fatigue during cleaning.
Filtration System
The vacuum’s filtration system effectively traps allergens and eliminates dust odors, providing noticeable relief for allergy and asthma sufferers.

Buying Guide for the Best Vacuum For Thick Carpets

Choosing the right vacuum cleaner for thick carpets can make a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. Thick carpets require a vacuum that can effectively remove dirt and debris without damaging the fibers. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a vacuum cleaner for thick carpets, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Suction PowerSuction power refers to the vacuum's ability to lift dirt and debris from the carpet. This is crucial for thick carpets as they tend to trap more dirt deep within the fibers. Suction power is often measured in watts or air watts. For thick carpets, a higher suction power is generally better, as it ensures that the vacuum can reach deep into the carpet pile. However, too much suction can make the vacuum difficult to push. Look for a vacuum with adjustable suction settings so you can find the right balance for your carpet.
Brush RollThe brush roll, or beater bar, is a rotating brush that helps to agitate the carpet fibers and loosen dirt. For thick carpets, a motorized brush roll is essential as it provides the necessary agitation to lift dirt from deep within the pile. Some vacuums offer adjustable brush roll heights, which can be beneficial for different carpet thicknesses. Ensure the brush roll can be turned off or adjusted to prevent damage to delicate carpet fibers.
Height AdjustmentHeight adjustment allows you to raise or lower the vacuum's base to match the height of your carpet. This feature is particularly important for thick carpets, as it ensures the vacuum can move smoothly over the surface without getting stuck or causing damage. Look for vacuums with multiple height settings so you can customize the height to your specific carpet type.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight and maneuverability of a vacuum cleaner are important factors to consider, especially for thick carpets. Heavier vacuums can be difficult to push through dense carpet fibers, leading to fatigue and frustration. Opt for a vacuum that is lightweight and easy to maneuver, with swivel steering or other features that enhance its ability to navigate around furniture and other obstacles.
Filtration SystemA good filtration system is essential for trapping dust, allergens, and other particles that can be released back into the air during vacuuming. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are highly effective at capturing small particles and are recommended for households with allergies or asthma. Ensure the vacuum has a sealed system to prevent dust from escaping and check the filter's maintenance requirements.
Bagged vs. BaglessVacuum cleaners come in bagged and bagless models. Bagged vacuums use disposable bags to collect dirt, which can be more hygienic and easier to dispose of, especially for allergy sufferers. Bagless vacuums use a dustbin that needs to be emptied regularly. Consider your preference for convenience and maintenance when choosing between the two. Bagged models may be better for those who prefer less frequent emptying and reduced exposure to dust.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a vacuum cleaner can be an important consideration, especially if you have a household with young children, pets, or noise-sensitive individuals. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Vacuums with lower decibel ratings are quieter and more pleasant to use. Look for vacuums that offer a good balance between performance and noise level to ensure a comfortable cleaning experience.

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