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If you’re searching for the best upright carpet cleaner, you’ll want a machine that fits your home, your messes, and your budget. The right model can make a big difference when it comes to tackling deep-set dirt, pet stains, high-traffic areas, and everyday spills on carpets and rugs.
When choosing from this list, pay attention to drying time, cleaning tools included, stain and pet-focused features, size, and overall value. Some machines are better for quick refreshes and smaller spaces, while others are built for tougher, more frequent deep cleaning. It’s also worth considering whether you need upholstery tools, hose attachments, or a model that comes with cleaning formulas included.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| BISSELL TurboClean | Best overall for value and included formula | Buy |
| BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus | Best for pet homes and deep cleaning | Buy |
| Shark CarpetXpert | Best for tough stains and odors | Buy |
Best Upright Carpet Cleaner
1. Best Overall: BISSELL TurboClean
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. Every purchase makes it possible for BISSELL to continue our support of BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission of saving pets in need.
- OUTCLEANS THE COMPETITIVE LIGHTWEIGHT CARPET CLEANER*. This machine tackles tough everyday & pet messes made on carpet & area rugs in small spaces.
- 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH. Combined with powerful suction, this brush removes ground-in dirt & stains in high traffic areas that vacuums leave behind.
The BISSELL TurboClean is a straightforward upright carpet cleaner that stands out for its practical approach to everyday carpet care. It comes with the Pro Max Clean & Protect formula plus an Oxy Urine Eliminator formula included, which adds convenience right out of the box.
With a strong user rating and a lower price point than many deeper-cleaning models, this cleaner is a solid option for households looking for a useful carpet refresh machine without moving into the highest price tier. It’s especially appealing if you want something simple to get started with immediately.
If your priority is getting a dependable upright cleaner that includes useful formulas and focuses on common carpet messes, this model is an easy one to consider. It offers a good balance of value and performance for regular cleaning routines.
Pros
- Formula included
- Lower price than many deep-cleaning models
- Strong rating
Cons
- Not the most premium option in the lineup
- Best suited to everyday use rather than advanced features
2. Best For Pet Homes: BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus
- PROFESSIONAL DEEP CLEANING FOR PET MESSES: Removes the toughest pet stains & odors.
- ATTACKS SPOTS & STAINS: The CleanShot Pretreater with OXY permanently removes pet stains and eliminates tough odors like cat urine and even skunk. StainProtect Technology prevents future stains.
- FRESHSTART ODOR PROTECTION: Continuously helps prevent odors & maintain freshness in your machine with antimicrobial brush rolls and a FreshStart Dirt Tank.
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is designed for users who need a capable upright deep cleaner with pet-friendly features. It includes a hose and tool attachment, plus a pet upholstery and tough stain tool, which helps make it more versatile for cleaning beyond the carpeted floor.
Its 30-minute dry time is a standout detail for buyers who want carpets ready sooner after cleaning. That makes it appealing for busy homes where minimizing downtime matters.
With a strong rating and a feature set aimed at deeper cleaning, this model is a smart pick for homes with pets, frequent spills, or higher-traffic carpeted spaces.
Pros
- 30-minute dry time
- Includes hose and tool attachment
- Pet upholstery and tough stain tool included
Cons
- Higher price than entry-level options
- May be more machine than casual users need
3. Best For Deep Cleaning: Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe
- PROFESSIONAL-LEVEL STAIN REMOVAL AT HOME: Achieve pro results without the cost with the Hoover PowerScrub. Five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes attack stains from multiple angles while HeatForce technology provides faster drying.
- DEEP CLEAN EVERY SURFACE: Transform dirty carpets, refresh upholstery, and tackle pet accidents anywhere with included 8 ft hose and specialized attachments - ideal for stairs, furniture, car interiors and hard-to-reach corners where messes hide.
- DUAL TANK TECHNOLOGY: Separate clean and dirty water tanks ensure you're always cleaning with fresh solution and are easy to fill, empty and rinse. Auto Mix creates the perfect ratio of water to cleaning solution for consistent results every time.
The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine is built for deep cleaning and comes with SpinScrub brushes, HeatForce drying, and pet and upholstery tools. It is positioned as a versatile carpet shampooer for households that want more than one cleaning function in a single machine.
This model is also designed to pair with Hoover carpet cleaner solution, making it easy to set up if you already use Hoover products. The combination of cleaning tools and drying support gives it broad appeal for mixed cleaning needs around the home.
With a solid rating and a mid-to-upper price point, it is a practical choice for buyers who want a reliable upright carpet cleaner with added features for rugs, upholstery, and pet messes.
Pros
- SpinScrub brushes
- HeatForce drying
- Includes pet and upholstery tools
Cons
- May feel bulky for smaller homes
- Best results likely depend on compatible solution use
4. Best For Tough Stains: Shark CarpetXpert
- WHOLE HOME CLEANING: Shark CarpetXpert with built-in StainStriker spot & stain remover and 3 tools. Upright carpet & upholstery cleaner, combining dual-activated formula and ultra-powerful suction to remove stains, dirt & grime – perfect for whole-home cleaning.
- UNBEATABLE DEEP CARPET CLEANING*: CarpetXpert Technology combines a high-speed brushroll with PowerSpray high-pressure spray and Shark's ultra-powerful suction to deliver unbeatable dirt and grime removal.*
- 20X MORE STAIN-REMOVING POWER*: StainStriker Technology mixes two unique chemicals in the hand tool to unleash the power of OXY to deliver the best tough stain elimination**, no premix required.
The Shark CarpetXpert is an upright carpet, area rug, and upholstery cleaner that also includes a StainStriker handheld tough stain eliminator. That combination makes it a strong candidate for households dealing with stubborn spots and odor-prone messes.
It includes three cleaning tools, which adds flexibility when working on different surfaces and stain types. The design is aimed at making it easier to move from carpet to upholstery without switching machines.
For buyers who want a cleaner focused on stains and odors, this model offers a well-rounded set of features and a strong overall rating.
Pros
- Includes StainStriker handheld tough stain eliminator
- Works on carpet, area rugs, and upholstery
- Three cleaning tools included
Cons
- Priced above entry-level options
- May be more feature-rich than basic users need
5. Best Steam-Focused Pick: BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam
- CLEANS MESSES UP TO 45% BETTER with HydroSteam Technology
- BUILT-IN STEAM PRETREATER loosens sticky stains from carpets
- XL DIRTLIFTER POWERBRUSH lifts & removes embedded dirt and stains
The BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam Carpet Cleaner is a deep cleaner that uses HydroSteam Technology and includes a 4-inch self-cleaning tough stain tool plus formulas. It is positioned for buyers who want a more advanced upright cleaner with a focus on harder cleaning jobs.
This model is a good fit for spot treatment as well as broader carpet care, thanks to the included tool and accompanying formulas. The self-cleaning tool is a practical detail for users who want maintenance to be more manageable.
Its rating is slightly lower than some of the top contenders, but it remains a solid option for shoppers who value steam-related cleaning support and a deeper-cleaning setup.
Pros
- HydroSteam Technology
- 4-inch self-cleaning tough stain tool included
- Formulas included
Cons
- Higher price
- Rating is lower than some competing models
6. Best For Pet XL Cleaning: BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL
- CLEAN MORE CARPET TO SAVE TIME. This machine is designed to save cleaning time and help you get back to your everyday life faster.
- 10” CLEAN PATH. Gives you wide cleaning coverage with a powerful and refreshed clean path.
- ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING FOR HARD TO REACH AREAS. Take on baseboards, stairs, upholstery, pet beds and more with the 3” Tough Stain Tool and Spraying Crevice Tool.
The BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner is aimed at users who want an upright machine with pet-focused cleaning support. It comes with an upholstery tough stain tool and formula included, giving it a useful starter package.
At a mid-range price, it sits between basic entry-level models and more advanced deep cleaners. That makes it a sensible option for people who need a little more capacity and flexibility without jumping to the highest tier.
For pet homes that want a simple upright cleaner with a helpful attachment included, this model offers a clear, practical package.
Pros
- Upholstery tough stain tool included
- Formula included
- Good mid-range option
Cons
- Fewer premium features than higher-end models
- Not the cheapest option
7. Best Compact Upright: Hoover PowerDash Pet+
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMPACT: Featuring a lightweight and compact design, the Hoover PowerDash Pet+ Carpet Cleaning Machine provides efficient cleaning power and easy storage. It’s an excellent choice for small homes and apartments.
- SMALL BUT MIGHTY: This upright carpet cleaner is perfect for pet messes, high traffic areas, area rugs and small spaces. A larger tank means more cleaning with fewer fill-ups.
- FASTER DRYING: Built with HeatForce technology, the PowerDash helps you enjoy clean, dry carpets in no time. The antimicrobial PowerSpin pet brush roll helps protect against pet odors.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet+ Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine is a lightweight carpet shampooer designed for easier handling. Its compact build makes it a convenient option for users who want a machine that is easier to store and maneuver.
It also uses HeatForce fast drying when paired with a Hoover carpet cleaner solution, which adds to its appeal for quick turnaround after cleaning. The design is especially attractive for smaller spaces or lighter-duty routines.
While compact models are not always packed with extras, this one offers a nice mix of portability and carpet-cleaning usefulness for everyday messes.
Pros
- Lightweight design
- HeatForce fast drying
- Compact and easy to store
Cons
- May not suit larger deep-cleaning jobs as well as full-size units
- Fewer included extras
8. Best Upright Vacuum Alternative: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe
- POWERFUL SUCTION: Deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors with multi-surface powerful suction.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for cleaning under furniture or detach the nozzle to clean above the floor, on upholstery, furniture, stairs, and more.
- ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is listed here as a different kind of upright cleaning option, since it focuses on vacuuming rather than carpet washing. It includes pet hair cleaning support, hard floor cleaning, upholstery and crevice tools, and a HEPA filter.
For shoppers who may be comparing upright carpet cleaners with upright vacuums, this model can be useful for dry debris and routine pickup around the home. Its swivel steering and large dust cup also add convenience for regular cleaning tasks.
It is not a carpet washer, but for buyers looking for an upright cleaner with strong vacuum features, it deserves consideration.
Pros
- HEPA filter
- Includes upholstery and crevice tools
- Swivel steering
Cons
- Not a carpet shampooer or wet cleaner
- Different use case from upright carpet cleaners
9. Best Budget-Friendly Pick: Hoover PowerDash Pet
- DEEP CLEAN PET MESSES IN MINUTES: Get more cleaning power with the Hoover Powerdash Pet, designed to eliminate stubborn pet stains, odors, and everyday spills from carpets and upholstery - perfect for pet owners and busy families.
- VERSATILE WHOLE-HOME CLEANING: Transform dirty carpets, high-traffic areas, tight spaces and area rugs. Antimicrobial PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll keeps the machine free from pet odors.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMPACT: Featuring a lightweight and compact design, this portable carpet cleaner provides efficient cleaning power and easy storage. Ideal for apartments, condos, and RVs.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine is one of the more affordable upright options in this list. It offers a lightweight design, HeatForce fast drying, and an antimicrobial brush roll for added everyday usefulness.
It is a strong value-focused choice for buyers who want an accessible carpet cleaner that handles routine messes without a high upfront cost. Pairing it with a Hoover carpet cleaner solution can help you get the most from the machine.
If affordability and simplicity matter most, this model is worth a close look.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Lightweight design
- Antimicrobial brush roll
Cons
- Compact size may not suit larger homes
- Fewer advanced features than premium models
10. Best Upright Vacuum for Pet Hair: Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets. When you buy a BISSELL product, you help find a home for a pet in need.
- SWIVEL STEERING & MANEUVERABILITY. Maximize control with swivel steering that makes it easy to navigate around furniture and obstacles, providing a smoother cleaning experience.
- SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY. Confidently clean hard floors with scatter-free technology that captures messes instead of pushing them around. Includes specialized pet tools for upholstery.
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum is designed for pet hair pickup, with swivel steering, a triple action brush roll, and a large capacity dirt tank. It is built for dry cleaning tasks rather than carpet washing.
This model is a good option if you need an upright cleaner for daily debris, pet fur, and general floor maintenance. The scatter-free tech adds practical appeal for homes that deal with messes across different floor types.
It is not a carpet cleaner in the shampooing sense, but it can still be useful for people considering upright floor cleaning tools alongside carpet care.
Pros
- Triple action brush roll
- Large capacity dirt tank
- Swivel steering
Cons
- Not a wet carpet cleaner
- Different from deep-clean carpet machines
11. Best Automatic Cleaning: Hoover SmartWash+
- AUTOMATIC CLEANING TECHNOLOGY: Featuring a motion sensing design with auto-mix and auto-dry technology, the Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet Cleaning Machine takes the guesswork out of a clean home.
- EASY TO USE: Simply push this upright carpet cleaner forward to clean and pull back to dry - no triggers or buttons required. Powerful extraction removes water and dirt while HeatForce Technology helps dry floors faster.
- TOUGH ON GRIME, GENTLE ON FLOORS: With FlexForce PowerBrushes, SmartWash+ Carpet Cleaners gently remove deep embedded dirt and pet messes.
The Hoover SmartWash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine is built for carpet and upholstery and is positioned as a deep cleaning shampooer. Its automatic cleaning emphasis makes it appealing to users who want a more guided carpet-cleaning process.
It also pairs with Hoover carpet cleaner solution, which helps keep the setup simple for users already in that ecosystem. The versatility across carpet and upholstery adds to its usefulness around the home.
For buyers looking for an automatic-style upright carpet cleaner with a practical feature set, this is a strong mid-to-premium option.
Pros
- Automatic carpet cleaning focus
- Works on carpet and upholstery
- Pairs with Hoover carpet cleaner solution
Cons
- Higher price than basic models
- May be more machine than occasional users need
12. Best Portable Add-On Option: BISSELL Little Green
- AMERICA'S #1 BRAND IN PORTABLE DEEP CLEANING: Trusted by over 7 million households.
- TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF MESS: Scientifically proven to lift and remove 100+ common messes and stains.
- ULTRA-POWERFUL TRIPLE ACTION FORMULA: Permanently removes stains and powerfully eliminates odors for “like new” results.
The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is not an upright carpet cleaner, but it is included because it is a helpful companion for spot cleaning. Its specialty tools make it useful for cars, upholstery, and smaller messes.
For homes that already have a larger carpet cleaner, a portable model like this can be a smart backup for fast touch-ups and detailed stain work. It is especially convenient for targeted cleaning jobs that do not call for a full-size machine.
If you want a portable cleaner to complement an upright unit, this is a popular and practical choice.
Pros
- Portable and versatile
- Specialty tools included
- Useful for cars and upholstery
Cons
- Not an upright carpet cleaner
- Best for spot cleaning rather than full-room cleaning
13. Best Upright Pet XL Upgrade: Hoover SmartWash Pet XL
- AUTOMATIC CLEANING TECHNOLOGY: SmartWash Pet XL automatically senses when to wash and dry, making carpet cleaning as easy as vacuuming
- SELF-CLEANING TRAY: Make clean up easy by using the self-cleaning tray to flush out hair and debris
- SPOT BOOST MODE: Experience more cleaning power with Spot Boost Mode
The Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner Machine is made for carpet and upholstery and features automatic deep cleaning. It also converts to a spot cleaner, which adds flexibility for smaller messes.
This model is a strong option for pet owners who want an upright cleaner with a little more versatility built in. The ability to switch to spot cleaning can help you handle daily messes without pulling out another machine.
As a premium-priced cleaner, it suits buyers who want a more complete cleaning tool for regular use across the home.
Pros
- Automatic deep cleaning
- Converts to spot cleaner
- Designed for carpet and upholstery
Cons
- Higher price
- May be more advanced than some users need
14. Best Premium Upright Vacuum: Shark Rotator Lift-Away
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for cleaning under furniture or detach the nozzle to clean above the floor, on upholstery, furniture, stairs, and more.
- ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.
- ADVANCED SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver your vacuum to get in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more.
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away is an upright vacuum cleaner rather than a carpet shampooer, but it still belongs on a broad floor-care shortlist. It includes pet hair cleaning support, hard floor cleaning, dusting brush and upholstery tools, and a HEPA filter.
Its lift-away design, swivel steering, and headlights make it a versatile choice for dry debris and detailed vacuuming tasks. For users comparing upright floor tools, these features can be helpful in deciding what kind of cleaner fits their home.
Because it is not a wet carpet cleaner, it works best as an alternative or companion to one of the true carpet-cleaning machines in this guide.
Pros
- Lift-Away design
- HEPA filter
- Includes multiple cleaning tools
Cons
- Not a carpet shampooer
- Dry vacuuming only
15. Best Premium Heavy-Duty Option: BISSELL Big Green PET PRO
- Every Purchase Saves Pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.3288.0 watts.Specific uses:Carpet
- Big Green Machine for a Big Clean. Get professional grade cleaning for pet messes.
- Cleans Better*, Dries Faster**. Unbeatable cleaning and dry time versus the leading rental carpet cleaner.
The BISSELL Big Green PET PRO Carpet Cleaner is the most premium option in this lineup and is built for serious carpet cleaning. It features an 8-row XL DirtLifter PowerBrush, a 9-inch long reach hose, two upholstery tools, and a Pet Pro Oxy Urine Eliminator formula.
With the highest rating in the group, this model is aimed at buyers who want a powerful upright cleaner for big jobs and frequent use. Its feature set is especially appealing for homes with pets and heavily used carpets.
If budget is less of a concern and you want a top-tier carpet cleaner with strong cleaning support, this is one of the standout picks.
Pros
- 8-row XL DirtLifter PowerBrush
- Includes Pet Pro Oxy Urine Eliminator formula
- Two upholstery tools included
Cons
- Highest price in the list
- May be more than occasional users need
Buying Guide
Cleaning Power
Choose a model that matches the type of messes you clean most often. For everyday refreshes, a simpler upright may be enough. For deeper carpet stains, pet messes, or heavy traffic, look for machines that are built for more intensive cleaning.
Drying Time
Some upright carpet cleaners are designed to help carpets dry faster than others. If you want less downtime after cleaning, look for models that highlight faster drying performance.
Included Tools and Attachments
Hose attachments, upholstery tools, and tough stain tools can make a cleaner much more versatile. These extras are especially helpful if you plan to clean stairs, sofas, or car interiors as well as carpets.
Formulas Included
Some products come with cleaning formulas included, which can make them more convenient to use right away. This can also improve value if you would otherwise need to purchase solution separately.
Size and Storage
Compact carpet cleaners are easier to store and carry, while larger models may offer more cleaning capacity and better performance for bigger jobs. Think about the amount of space you have and how often you plan to move the machine around.
Pet-Focused Features
If you have pets, look for models that mention pet tools, urine elimination formulas, or stain-focused accessories. These features can make a noticeable difference when dealing with recurring pet messes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best upright carpet cleaner for most homes?
The best choice depends on your needs, but a model like the BISSELL TurboClean is a strong starting point if you want value and included formulas. If you need more heavy-duty performance, options like the BISSELL Big Green PET PRO may be better.
Do upright carpet cleaners work on upholstery?
Some do, but only if they include an upholstery tool or hose attachment. Always check the product details to confirm that the machine includes the accessories you need for upholstery cleaning.
Are upright carpet cleaners good for pet stains?
Yes, many upright carpet cleaners are designed with pet messes in mind. Look for pet-focused tools and formulas if urine, muddy paw prints, or treated pet odors are common in your home.
Should I choose a compact or full-size carpet cleaner?
A compact model is better if storage space is limited or you only clean occasionally. A full-size machine is usually better for larger homes, frequent cleaning, or tougher messes.
Do all upright carpet cleaners include cleaning solution?
No, not all of them do. A few models in this list include formulas, while others may require you to buy solution separately.
Conclusion
The Best Upright Carpet Cleaner for you depends on how much cleaning power, flexibility, and convenience you need. If you want a strong all-around option, the BISSELL TurboClean is a practical place to start. For pet homes and deeper cleaning, the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus and BISSELL Big Green PET PRO are especially appealing.
Shoppers who want stain-focused cleaning may prefer the Shark CarpetXpert, while budget-conscious buyers may appreciate the Hoover PowerDash Pet. No matter which model you choose, the right upright carpet cleaner can make routine cleaning faster, easier, and more effective.