10 Best Vacuums For Carpets 2026 in the United States

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is a solid choice if you're looking for a vacuum mainly for carpets and pet hair. Its suction is strong enough to handle deep carpet cleaning and pick up pet dander and hair effectively. The brush roll can be turned off, which is handy when you switch from carpets to hard floors, helping prevent scratching and making it more versatile. It has a HEPA filtration system that traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, which is great if allergies are a concern.

Weighing about 13.7 pounds, it’s relatively easy to maneuver around furniture thanks to its swivel steering, and you can detach the vacuum pod to clean stairs or upholstery more comfortably. The vacuum is bagless with a large dust cup (0.87 liters), so you can clean longer before emptying, though emptying a dust cup can sometimes be messier compared to bagged models. Noise level sits around 80 decibels, which is average—noticeable but not overly loud. It includes useful attachments like a crevice tool and dusting brush for detailed cleaning.

It is corded, so managing the cord length during use is necessary. It offers two power speeds but doesn't have multiple specialized settings beyond that. It’s designed with pet owners in mind and performs well on carpeted floors but also can handle bare floors without hassle. This vacuum combines powerful cleaning with allergy protection and user-friendly features, making it a reliable option for homes with carpets and pets, provided you are comfortable with a corded device and a bagless system.

The Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum is a strong contender for anyone looking to maintain carpets, especially if you have pets. Its 2-in-1 Powered Lift-Away technology is a standout feature, allowing you to detach the pod for cleaning tricky spots under furniture while maintaining powerful suction with its brush roll. The advanced swivel steering makes it easy to navigate around corners and furniture, enhancing its maneuverability.

When it comes to suction power, the vacuum performs admirably on various surfaces, transitioning seamlessly from carpets to hard floors with just a touch. The large dust cup capacity of 0.88 quarts means fewer interruptions for emptying, which can be a lifesaver during long cleaning sessions. The HEPA filtration system is another significant advantage, trapping 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers. The included Pet Power Brush and upholstery tool are designed specifically for pet owners, efficiently removing hair and ground-in dirt from carpets and upholstery.

The vacuum weighs 15.4 pounds, which may be a bit heavy for some users, especially during prolonged cleaning. It also has a noise level of 80 dB, which is relatively loud, so it might not be the best option for those who prefer a quieter cleaning experience. Additionally, being a corded model could limit mobility compared to cordless alternatives. The vacuum includes a crevice tool that enhances its versatility for accessing tight spaces. While it excels at carpet cleaning, its effectiveness on delicate fabrics may vary.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, is a solid choice for households needing an effective carpet cleaner. One of its standout features is the powerful suction that effectively handles both carpets and bare floors, making it versatile for different cleaning needs. The lift-away functionality allows users to detach the pod, which is great for reaching under furniture or cleaning above-floor surfaces like upholstery and stairs. This flexibility is especially helpful in tight spaces or for those who have pets, as the included upholstery tool makes picking up pet hair simple and efficient.

Another notable aspect is the HEPA filtration system, paired with anti-allergen technology, which helps trap dust and allergens. This feature is advantageous for allergy sufferers, ensuring cleaner air quality during and after cleaning. Additionally, the 0.9-quart dust cup capacity means less frequent emptying, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without interruptions.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The vacuum is not cordless, which limits mobility and may be inconvenient in larger spaces. While it provides good suction, it does add some weight, which could make prolonged use tiring for some users. Noise level is also an aspect worth noting; while it's not excessively loud, it’s not the quietest vacuum on the market either. The swivel steering feature enhances maneuverability, but some users may find that the vacuum's bulk makes it harder to navigate in very tight spaces. Also, while the brush roll shutoff feature is useful for switching between carpet and bare floor cleaning, some may prefer a more intuitive transition without needing to adjust settings.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe proves to be a practical vacuum for carpet cleaning, particularly beneficial for pet owners or those with allergies, though its corded design and weight could pose challenges for certain users.