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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 by1,432
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
119669 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 by1,432
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
119669 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 NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Large Dust Cup Capacity, LED Headlights, Upholstery Tool, Perfect Pet Power Brush & Crevice Tool, Bordeaux

Rating
9.1
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
38769 reviews

Suction Power
This vacuum cleaner is simply the best, especially for homes with pets. Its strong suction power effectively picks up fur and dirt, making carpets and rugs dirt-free.
Brush Roll
The vacuum handles high pile rugs with ease, without getting tangled, which is impressive given the amount of pet hair it encounters.
Weight and Maneuverability
While it is heavier than a stick vacuum, the trade-off is worth it for the powerful suction and extensive features it offers.

The Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum is well-suited for thick carpets, thanks to its strong suction power and specialized brush roll that effectively lifts embedded dirt and pet hair. The powered lift-away feature allows you to detach the pod, making it easier to clean hard-to-reach areas and under furniture. This is a big plus for households with pets or those who need to tackle deep cleaning in various spaces.

With advanced swivel steering, the vacuum is easy to maneuver, helping you navigate around furniture and into tight corners without hassle. The large-capacity dust cup (0.88 quarts) means you can clean more before needing to empty it, which is particularly useful for larger homes. Additionally, the HEPA filtration system captures 99.9% of allergens, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.

On the downside, the vacuum is corded, which might limit your range of movement compared to cordless models. It can also be a bit heavy for some users, making prolonged use a little tiring. Although it has LED headlights to help spot hidden debris, the noise level can be higher compared to some quieter models, which might be a consideration if you have pets that are sensitive to sound.

Rating
9.1
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
38769 reviews

Suction Power
This vacuum cleaner is simply the best, especially for homes with pets. Its strong suction power effectively picks up fur and dirt, making carpets and rugs dirt-free.
Brush Roll
The vacuum handles high pile rugs with ease, without getting tangled, which is impressive given the amount of pet hair it encounters.
Weight and Maneuverability
While it is heavier than a stick vacuum, the trade-off is worth it for the powerful suction and extensive features it offers.
#3

Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Pet Crevice Tool, Perfect for Pets & Multi-Surface, Teal, ZU503AMZ

Rating
8.5
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
6304 reviews

Suction Power
Shark's suction power is impressive, leaving surfaces extremely clean and even making the air feel fresher.
Brush Roll
Users appreciate the ability to turn off the beater bar for cleaning hardwood floors, effectively replacing the need for a broom.
Weight and Maneuverability
The Shark vacuum is heavier and bulkier compared to Dyson D40, but it glides effortlessly on the floor, making vacuuming feel smooth and easy.
Noise Level
The vacuum is quieter than many competitors, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away ZU503AMZ, is a versatile option for those who need a reliable vacuum for thick carpets. Its 1200-watt suction power should be sufficient for deep cleaning, and the self-cleaning brush roll is especially useful for pet owners as it prevents hair wrap and maintains performance. The lift-away functionality allows you to clean hard-to-reach areas like under furniture and on stairs, adding to its convenience. Additionally, the swivel steering makes maneuvering around furniture and tight spaces easier, enhancing usability on thick carpets.

The HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology is a big plus for allergy sufferers as it traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum. This vacuum is bagless, which means you won't have to buy replacement bags, but emptying the dustbin could be a bit messy. Weighing nearly 15 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for an upright vacuum, but some might still find it a bit cumbersome to carry around for extended periods. The noise level is 80 dB, which is fairly standard but could be a bit loud for some users.

The included upholstery and pet crevice tools are great additions for those with pets, making it easier to clean pet hair from various surfaces. However, the absence of cordless functionality may limit its convenience, especially in larger homes. The vacuum comes with a 5-year limited warranty, indicating confidence in its durability. In summary, this Shark vacuum offers strong suction power, effective pet hair management, and good maneuverability, making it a solid choice for those with thick carpets and pets, though its noise level and lack of cordless design could be minor drawbacks for some users.

Rating
8.5
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
6304 reviews

Suction Power
Shark's suction power is impressive, leaving surfaces extremely clean and even making the air feel fresher.
Brush Roll
Users appreciate the ability to turn off the beater bar for cleaning hardwood floors, effectively replacing the need for a broom.
Weight and Maneuverability
The Shark vacuum is heavier and bulkier compared to Dyson D40, but it glides effortlessly on the floor, making vacuuming feel smooth and easy.
Noise Level
The vacuum is quieter than many competitors, enhancing the overall user experience.

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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