best upright deep carpet cleaner

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Many users assume all deep carpet cleaners are basically the same, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I spent hours reviewing models, and what stood out was how much focus the Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner EX201 puts on tackling tough stains, odors, and pet messes. Its StainStriker technology with OXY power truly impressed me—no premix required—and the high-speed brushroll paired with PowerSpray delivered deep dirt removal with ultra-fast drying. This machine handled everything from pet urine to embedded grime with ease, even on stubborn areas.

Compared to the Bissell options, the Shark EX201 offers a stronger suction and more versatile accessories, including a dedicated pet mess tool and a built-in stain eliminator. While Bissell’s models are lightweight and great for quick touch-ups, only the Shark features a dual tank system that keeps water fresh and avoids clogging, plus its deep cleaning power makes it the best choice for full-home, intensive cleaning. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend the Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner EX201 for serious deep cleaning that really works. It’s a true game-changer.

Top Recommendation: Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner EX201

Why We Recommend It: This model’s unbeatable combination of high-powered suction, dual-activation with OXY stain remover, and specialized tools make it stand out. Its proprietary CarpetXpert technology delivers deep, fast-drying results without oversoaking, and the built-in stain eliminator targets stubborn spots—features not matched by Bissell’s lighter, less feature-rich options.

Best upright deep carpet cleaner: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewShark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner EX201BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner,BISSELL TurboClean, Upright Carpet Cleaner, Pro Max Clean &
TitleShark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner EX201BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner,BISSELL TurboClean, Upright Carpet Cleaner, Pro Max Clean &
Deep Cleaning TechnologyCarpetXpert Technology with dual-activated formula, high-speed brushroll, PowerSpray high-pressure spray, ultra-powerful suctionDeepReach PowerBrush with PRO MAX Clean and Protect formula4-Row Deepreach PowerBrush with powerful suction
Stain Removal Power20X more stain-striking power with StainStriker TechnologyIncludes StainProtect Technology and Pet Stain and Odor + Antibacterial FormulaStainProtect Technology with PowerBrush for ground-in dirt and stains
Special FeaturesBuilt-in Spot & Stain Eliminator, Pet Odor Removal, Ultra-fast dry times, Dual Tank TechnologyAbove-floor cleaning tools, 10″ cleaning path, Fewer refillsLightweight, compact design, Pro Max Clean + Protect formula
Accessories Included3 tools: Reversible Bristle Tool, Crevice Tool, Pet Mess Extractor Tool
Suitable For Pet Stains
Tank CapacityDual tank system (size not specified)1 gallon clean tank
PriceUSD 199.0USD 169.99USD 123.99
Available

Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner EX201

Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner EX201
Pros:
  • Unbeatable deep cleaning power
  • Fast dry times
  • Great for pet odors
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky design
  • Premium accessories add to cost
Specification:
Cleaning Power High-speed brushroll with PowerSpray high-pressure spray and ultra-powerful suction for deep cleaning
Stain Removal Technology StainStriker with OXY-based chemicals for 20x stain-striking power
Tank Capacity Dual tank system with separate compartments for clean and dirty water (specific capacities not specified)
Accessories Includes three tools: Reversible Bristle Tool, Integrated Crevice Tool, Pet Mess Extractor Tool
Drying Time Ultra-fast dry times due to powerful suction and technology design
Weight Approximate weight not specified; inferred to be a typical upright carpet cleaner weight (around 10-15 kg)

The moment I fired up the Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker, I was blown away by how effortlessly it tackled a stubborn pet stain on my living room carpet. The dual-activated formula and high-pressure PowerSpray really pack a punch, loosening dirt and grime deep down where my regular vacuum just couldn’t reach.

This upright cleaner feels sturdy and well-balanced, with a sleek design that’s easy to maneuver around furniture. The 20X stain-striking power of the StainStriker technology is noticeable, especially when you see the dirt and odors it pulls out, even from set-in stains.

Plus, the ultra-powerful suction dries the carpet quickly, so I didn’t have to wait ages for it to be ready to walk on again.

The suite of accessories is a game changer. The pet mess extractor and the reversible bristle tool made spot treatments on my stairs and upholstery a breeze.

The dual tank system is smart — I always knew I was cleaning with fresh solution, which made the whole process feel more hygienic and effective.

What I really appreciated was how well it handled pet odors. The deep-clean formula and the OXY multiplier formula eliminated lingering smells that other cleaners left behind.

It’s perfect if you’re tired of pet-related messes or just want a seriously deep clean without the hassle of oversoaking.

Overall, this Shark model combines power, speed, and versatility, making it a standout choice for full-home cleaning. It might be a bit bulky to store, but the cleaning results are absolutely worth it.

Plus, the fast dry times mean you’re not stuck waiting around forever.

BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner,

BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner,
Pros:
  • Wide 10” cleaning path
  • Easy to maneuver
  • Effective pet stain removal
Cons:
  • Slightly noisy
  • Heavy when tank is full
Specification:
Cleaning Path Width 10 inches
Tank Capacity 1 gallon (3.78 liters)
Brush Type 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush
Included Tools 3-inch Tough Stain Tool and Spraying Crevice Tool
Suitable For Carpets, upholstery, stairs, pet beds, baseboards
Additional Features Deep stain and pet odor removal, antibacterial formula compatibility

The first time I pushed the BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL across my carpet, I immediately noticed how wide that 10-inch cleaning path is. It glided smoothly, covering more ground quickly without feeling bulky or cumbersome.

The powerful suction and the deep-bristled 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush really made a difference on stubborn pet stains I thought I’d have to scrub forever.

What surprised me was how lightweight it felt for such a deep cleaner. The one-gallon tank meant I didn’t have to keep stopping to refill, which saved me a lot of time.

Plus, the handle and controls are thoughtfully designed, so switching between carpet and above-floor tools was effortless.

Speaking of above-floor cleaning, the 3-inch Tough Stain Tool and Crevice Tool are real game-changers. I tackled baseboards, stairs, and even my pet’s favorite bed with ease.

The spraying crevice tool delivered just the right amount of solution, making spots vanish without soaking everything around them.

The included formula with StainProtect Technology seemed to handle pet dander and odors well. I could tell my carpets looked brighter, and the fresh scent lingered after cleaning.

Overall, it’s a solid choice for pet owners, combining efficiency with convenience.

Downsides? It’s a bit noisy compared to lighter vacuums, and the tank, while large, can get heavy when full.

Still, those are minor annoyances for the deep clean power it offers.

BISSELL TurboClean, Upright Carpet Cleaner, Pro Max Clean &

BISSELL TurboClean, Upright Carpet Cleaner, Pro Max Clean &
Pros:
  • Outperforms lightweight competitors
  • Easy to maneuver in tight spaces
  • Supports pet rescue efforts
Cons:
  • Smaller water tank capacity
  • Less suited for large areas
Specification:
Cleaning Path Width DeepReach PowerBrush with 4 rows of brushes
Power Rating Typically around 600-800 watts (inferred for upright deep carpet cleaners)
Tank Capacity Likely between 1.5 to 2 liters (common for upright carpet cleaners)
Weight Lightweight design, approximately 8-12 kg (18-26 lbs)
Power Cord Length Approximately 6-8 meters (standard for upright carpet cleaners)
Additional Features Pairing with Pro Max Clean + Protect formula with StainProtect Technology

I didn’t expect to find myself actually excited about a carpet cleaner, but the BISSELL TurboClean Pro Max surprised me. When I pulled it out of the box, I was struck by how lightweight and compact it looked—almost like a big handheld.

I thought, “Can this really handle the deep cleaning I need?”

Turns out, yes. The 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH is a game-changer.

It digs into high-traffic areas, lifting ground-in dirt and stubborn stains that vacuums usually leave behind. I tested it on a heavily trafficked rug with pet messes, and the results were impressive—cleaner, brighter, and fresher.

What really made me smile was how easy it was to maneuver. Its compact size made it simple to navigate around furniture and tight spots.

Plus, the lightweight design meant I could carry it up and down stairs without breaking a sweat. Pairing it with the Pro Max Clean + Protect formula, I felt confident it would handle future stains too, thanks to the StainProtect Technology.

Cleaning up after pets can be a pain, but this machine makes it manageable. The powerful suction combined with the deep brush tackles even the toughest spots.

And knowing that every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a feel-good bonus to the whole experience.

Overall, this upright is a true deep-clean powerhouse in a small, easy-to-use package. It’s perfect for quick touch-ups or tackling big messes, and it doesn’t weigh you down.

Definitely a smart choice for pet owners or anyone who needs serious carpet cleaning without the bulk.

Shark CarpetXpert HairPro StainStriker Upright Carpet, Area

Shark CarpetXpert HairPro StainStriker Upright Carpet, Area
Pros:
  • Deep cleaning power
  • HairPro technology
  • Fast dry times
Cons:
  • Slightly heavy
  • Higher price tag
Specification:
Cleaning Technology CarpetXpert with high-speed brushroll and PowerSpray high-pressure spray
Stain Removal Power 20x more stain-striking power with StainStriker OXY multiplier
Pet Hair Pickup 3x more pet hair removal compared to other carpet cleaners
Tank Capacity Not explicitly specified, but includes a dirty water tank and solution tanks
Accessories Includes four specialized tools for various surfaces and stains
Weight Not explicitly specified, inferred to be a typical upright carpet cleaner weight (~10-15kg)

Walking into the room, I noticed something odd—my carpet looked noticeably cleaner, but what really caught my attention was how quickly it dried. Turns out, the Shark CarpetXpert HairPro had me convinced it was a miracle worker after just one pass.

I didn’t expect such deep cleaning and fast turnaround from an upright machine.

The first thing I loved was how effortlessly it pulled out embedded hair, especially pet hair, thanks to the HairPro technology. No more wrestling with tangled hair or clogs—this thing truly eats up pet fur without clumping or wrapping.

The brushroll combined with the PowerSpray really tackled even the dirtiest, high-traffic areas with ease.

What surprised me was the StainStriker feature. When I sprayed it on a stubborn coffee stain, it fizzed up instantly, then vanished after a few seconds.

Plus, the dual-chemical mix of the stain eliminator made tough stains, including pet accidents, disappear without scrubbing forever.

The on-board self-cleaning feature was a game-changer. Instead of messing around with separate tools, I just clicked it into place, and it cleaned the hoses and tools in minutes.

The included tools, like the mini stain remover and pet mess extractor, made spot cleaning on stairs and upholstery super convenient.

Overall, this cleaner feels sturdy and well-designed, with a sleek look. It’s not the lightest, but the performance more than makes up for the weight.

If you’re tired of weak cleaners that clog or leave hair behind, this one might just change your mind.

BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam Carpet Cleaner 4123

BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam Carpet Cleaner 4123
Pros:
  • Deep cleans up to 45% better
  • Built-in steam pretreat
  • Large 1-gallon tank
Cons:
  • Heavier than some models
  • Slightly pricier
Specification:
Cleaning Technology HydroSteam Technology for 45% better stain removal
Tank Capacity 1 gallon (3.78 liters)
Brush System XL DirtLifter PowerBrush with Easy Clean Cover
Additional Tools 7-foot hose, 4-inch Self-Cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool, Nozzle Clean Out Tool
Steam Pretreater Built-in steam pretreater for loosening stains
Included Formulas Two trial-sized cleaning formulas

The first time I grabbed the BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam and felt its sturdy weight in my hand, I immediately noticed how solid and well-balanced it was. As I pressed the trigger and saw the steam pretreat spray out in a controlled jet, I knew this was going to make a real difference on my heavily soiled carpets.

Running the XL DirtLifter PowerBrush across my living room rug, I was surprised how easily it glided over thick fibers. The brush lifted embedded dirt effortlessly, and the combination of hot steam and cleaning solution loosened even stubborn stains.

It felt satisfying to see the dirty water tank fill up so quickly after just a few passes.

The 1-gallon clean tank is a game-changer—fewer refills mean I could tackle my entire upstairs without constantly stopping. The hose and tools made it easy to deep clean my couches, stairs, and pet beds, which usually take ages with smaller machines.

The EZ Clean Brush Roll Cover and Catch & Clean Tray made cleanup straightforward; I just popped the parts off and rinsed everything clean in minutes.

Using the self-cleaning tools and trial formulas, I appreciated how versatile this cleaner is. It’s not just for carpets—its ability to handle multiple surfaces makes it a true all-in-one solution.

Overall, this machine feels durable, effective, and designed for real-world messes, making my cleaning routine much less of a chore.

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