10 Best Carpet Shampooers 2025 in the United States

The Shark CarpetXpert HairPro with StainStriker is a robust carpet shampooer designed for deep cleaning carpets, rugs, and upholstery. One of its standout features is the CarpetXpert technology, which combines a high-speed brushroll, high-pressure spray, and powerful suction for effective dirt and stain removal. This machine claims to dry carpets quickly, making it convenient for frequent use. The innovative HairPro technology excels at picking up pet hair, minimizing the hassle of hair entanglement and making clean-up straightforward with its Zero-Touch disposal system. Additionally, the inclusion of StainStriker technology offers significant stain-fighting power, particularly beneficial for pet owners dealing with tough stains and odors. The machine also comes with a handy selection of attachments for tackling various cleaning tasks, including a handheld spot cleaner for stairs and upholstery.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The Shark CarpetXpert weighs about 20.72 pounds, which can be a bit heavy for some users, especially when maneuvering across different surfaces. While its water tank capacity and drying time are decent, they may not be as generous as some larger models. Maintenance is generally made easier with the self-cleaning feature, but ensure to follow the guidelines for optimal performance.

The Shark CarpetXpert HairPro is an excellent choice for pet owners or anyone needing serious cleaning power for carpets and upholstery. It effectively combines advanced cleaning technologies and user-friendly features, although its weight might be a concern for those looking for a more lightweight option.

The Bissell Little Green Mini is a compact and portable carpet and upholstery cleaner well-suited for small cleaning jobs like car interiors, pet beds, and upholstery rather than large carpeted areas. It offers solid cleaning power with its spray, scrub, and suction combo, effectively tackling stains and odors using Bissell’s Little Green Formula. The 16-ounce water tank is on the small side, meaning you may need to refill it frequently during extended use.

Its lightweight design at 7 pounds makes it easy to maneuver and store, especially in tight spaces. The included 4-inch Tough Stain Tool and HydroRinse self-cleaning hose accessory enhance its ability to clean tough spots and simplify maintenance by keeping the hose clear of buildup. While it doesn't have multiple power levels or cordless convenience, its single power setting keeps operation straightforward.

Drying time will depend on the cleaned surface but is typical for machines of this size. This cleaner is best for anyone needing a portable, easy-to-use spot cleaner for small messes rather than a full-room carpet shampooer. It’s particularly handy for pet owners or car detailers who want an efficient, compact tool without complex features.

The Shark Carpet Cleaner Machine, also known as the Shark StainStriker, excels in eliminating tough stains and odors from various surfaces like carpets, area rugs, upholstery, and even cars. Its dual-activated formula provides powerful stain removal without the need for premixing, making it convenient and highly effective. The machine boasts strong suction power, ensuring deep cleaning that can revive even the dirtiest carpets and furniture, which is especially useful for pet owners dealing with stubborn pet stains and odors.

At a lightweight 8.51 pounds, it is easy to maneuver around the house and can be stored conveniently after use. The 2-liter water tank is sufficient for tackling most household cleaning tasks without frequent refills, and the drying time is reasonably quick given its powerful suction capabilities. The Shark StainStriker comes with a variety of useful attachments, including a crevice tool, bristle tools, and a pet tool, which enhance its versatility for different cleaning scenarios.

Additionally, it includes two cleaning solutions that further boost its stain-fighting power. Maintenance is straightforward, as the machine requires only hand washing of its components. However, one limitation to consider is the manual maintenance involved, which might be a bit cumbersome for some users. This carpet cleaner is a solid choice for anyone looking for a portable, powerful, and versatile cleaning solution, particularly those dealing with pet-related messes.