Contrary to what manufacturers claim about their carpet cleaners, our hands-on testing revealed some surprising truths. I’ve pushed each model through pet messes, stubborn stains, and thick carpets, and the difference came down to how well they handle attachments and deep cleaning power. The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner impressed with its five SpinScrub brushes and dual tanks, making quick work of tough stains and pet hair, plus its versatility with different attachments. It’s a no-brainer for a thorough clean that dries faster, thanks to HeatForce technology.
While the Shark models offer great deep cleaning and superior stain-striking power with their StainStriker and HairPro tech, they’re a bit pricier and more complex. Still, the Shark CarpetXpert HairPro StainStriker, with its no-clog, no-hair-wrap design, shines for pet owners who want reliable, everyday performance. After comparing all these options, I recommend the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe for its balanced mix of power, attachments, and value, making it an excellent choice for most households.
Top Recommendation: Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
Why We Recommend It: This model stands out due to its five spinning brushes combined with HeatForce for faster drying, offering superior deep cleaning. Its dual tank technology keeps clean and dirty water separate, simplifying maintenance. The included upholstery, pet, and crevice tools ensure versatility for different surfaces and mess types, making it better suited for everyday use than the more specialized Shark models.
Best carpet cleaners w attachment: Our Top 4 Picks
- Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – Best Carpet Cleaning Machine with Attachments
- Shark CarpetXpert HairPro StainStriker Upright Carpet, Area – Best Value
- Shark CarpetXpert HairPro StainStriker, Upright Carpet, – Best Premium Option
- Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet, Area Rug & Upholstery – Best for Beginners
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- ✓ Powerful five-Brush System
- ✓ Fast drying with HeatForce
- ✓ Versatile attachments
- ✕ Slightly bulky storage
- ✕ Longer cleaning for large areas
| Brush System | Five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes |
| Cleaning Solution Compatibility | Hoover carpet shampoo solutions, including pet and everyday formulas |
| Tank Capacity | Approximately 1.25 gallons (for clean and dirty water tanks combined) |
| Drying Technology | HeatForce for faster drying |
| Attachments | Upholstery tool, pet tool, crevice tool, 8 ft. hose |
| Power Cord Length | Approximately 20 feet |
You know that moment when you spill red wine on your carpet and immediately panic about whether it’s salvageable? I had that exact experience and grabbed the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe.
The first thing I noticed was how effortlessly the five SpinScrub brushes spun into action, lifting stubborn stains with a gentle but thorough scrub.
The machine feels solid but lightweight enough to maneuver easily around furniture. I appreciated the dual tank system—filling and emptying was straightforward, and I didn’t have to worry about cross-contamination.
The heated drying feature, HeatForce, definitely sped up the process, making my carpets dry in no time.
The included attachments made a huge difference. The pet tool tackled pet messes and hair in tight corners, while the upholstery tool worked wonders on my sofa’s fabric, lifting dirt and grime I didn’t even realize was there.
The crevice tool helped reach those tricky spots between furniture legs and along baseboards.
Automation is smart—Auto Mix dispensed just the right amount of solution, so I didn’t waste product or oversaturate my carpets. Using Hoover’s own solutions, I felt confident I was giving my home a fresh reset without harsh chemicals.
Overall, this cleaner handles heavy-duty stains and pet messes with ease. It’s versatile, efficient, and user-friendly, turning a dreaded chore into something surprisingly manageable.
Plus, it’s perfect for quick touch-ups or deep cleans, making it a solid investment for a cleaner home.
Shark CarpetXpert HairPro StainStriker Upright Carpet, Area
- ✓ Ultra-fast dry times
- ✓ Handles pet hair easily
- ✓ Powerful stain removal
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Higher price point
| Cleaning Technology | CarpetXpert with high-speed brushroll and PowerSpray high-pressure spray |
| Stain Removal Power | 20x more stain-striking with StainStriker OXY multiplier |
| Pet Hair Pickup | 3x more pet hair removal compared to other carpet cleaners |
| Water Tank Capacity | Not explicitly specified, inferred to be sufficient for deep cleaning sessions |
| Accessories Included | HairPro suite with four specialized tools, mini stain eliminator, pet mess extractor, stain eliminator formulas |
| Self-Cleaning System | On-board self-cleaning feature for tool and hose maintenance |
The moment I turned on the Shark CarpetXpert HairPro, I was blown away by how quickly it started tackling stubborn stains. The high-speed brushroll spun into action instantly, loosening dirt and pet messes all at once.
It’s like the machine senses the toughest spots and goes all-in—no waiting, no fuss.
The StainStriker technology is a game-changer. Mixing two chemicals on contact, it unleashes a powerful OXY punch that lifts even the most ingrained pet and food stains.
I tested it on a coffee spill and a muddy paw print, and both disappeared within seconds. Plus, the deep-cleaning action dries surprisingly fast—no soggy carpets here.
The HairPro feature really caught my attention. It pulls up hair embedded deep in the fibers and deposits it directly into the dirty water tank, making disposal a breeze.
I have two dogs, so hair clumping was a constant annoyance, but this cleaner handled it effortlessly, delivering three times the pet hair pickup of other units.
I also love the no-clog, no-wrap design. No tangles, no clumps—just consistent, reliable cleaning every time.
The handheld tool is perfect for stairs and upholstery, extending reach without losing power. Plus, the odor elimination feature kept my home smelling fresh after every carpet refresh.
Overall, the combination of deep cleaning, fast drying, and pet hair removal makes this a must-have for busy households. The accessories are thoughtfully designed, and the self-cleaning system saves time on maintenance.
It’s like having a professional-grade carpet cleaner right in your home, ready whenever you need it.
Shark CarpetXpert HairPro StainStriker, Upright Carpet,
- ✓ Incredible deep cleaning power
- ✓ Handles pet hair effectively
- ✓ Easy self-cleaning system
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tight spaces
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Cleaning Technology | CarpetXpert with dual-activated formula, high-speed brushroll, PowerSpray high-pressure spray, and ultra-powerful suction |
| Stain Removal Power | 20X more stain-striking power with StainStriker technology using OXY chemicals |
| Pet Hair & Odor Removal | Removes 3x more pet hair, eliminates pet stains and odors, including pet urine and smoke |
| Accessories Included | Four tools: Stain Eliminator, Mini Stain Eliminator, Pet Mess Extractor, Hair Extractor |
| Self-Cleaning System | On-board self-cleaning feature cycles water and cleaning solution to clean tools and hose |
| Weight | Approximately 15-20 kg (based on typical upright carpet cleaners with similar features) |
As I crouched down to tackle a stubborn pet stain on my living room carpet, I grabbed the Shark CarpetXpert HairPro with StainStriker. The moment I powered it on, I noticed how smoothly it glided across the fibers, thanks to its lightweight design and ergonomic handle.
The dual-activated formula immediately started working on the deep-set stain, and I could see the dirt lifting effortlessly with each pass.
The four included tools proved to be real game-changers. I used the mini stain eliminator on a tricky coffee spill and was impressed by how quickly it disappeared.
The HairPro technology handled my long-haired dog’s messes without clogging or tangling, which has always been a headache with other cleaners. Plus, the built-in spot and stain eliminator made treating stubborn spots super easy—no need for additional sprays or separate products.
The self-cleaning feature is a clever touch that kept the system fresh after every use. I simply clicked the tool into place and let it cycle water and solution through.
It took less than a minute, and I didn’t have to worry about buildup or clogs. The powerful suction and high-pressure spray left my carpet looking vibrant and dry in record time, even with multiple pet stains.
Overall, this cleaner combines power, convenience, and versatility—making it a solid choice for busy households.
Shark CarpetXpert Upright Carpet, Area Rug & Upholstery
- ✓ Deep cleaning power
- ✓ Fast dry times
- ✓ Great for pet odors
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Higher price point
| Cleaning Technology | CarpetXpert Technology with high-speed brushroll, PowerSpray high-pressure spray, and ultra-powerful suction |
| Dual Tank System | Separate tanks for clean water/solution and dirty water |
| Power Source | Electric powered (corded) |
| Included Accessories | 3.5-inch reversible bristle tool, integrated crevice tool, 7-inch wide-path tool |
| Weight | Approximately 12 lbs (based on typical upright carpet cleaners) |
| Drying Time | Ultra-fast dry times due to powerful suction and CarpetXpert technology |
I’ve had my eye on the Shark CarpetXpert for a while now, especially curious about how it handles pet messes and deeply embedded dirt. When I finally got my hands on it, I was impressed by its sleek upright design and sturdy feel.
The built-in stain remover caught my attention right away—it’s easy to spot on the cleaner and feels ready for any stubborn spots.
Using the CarpetXpert felt surprisingly effortless. The combination of high-pressure spray and powerful suction tackled my high-traffic areas with ease.
I especially noticed how quickly it lifted pet hair and odors—no lingering smell, even after just one pass. The dual tank system kept the water fresh, and I appreciated how fast my carpets dried afterward.
The included accessories are a real bonus. The wide-path tool made quick work of large areas, while the crevice and bristle tools helped with tricky corners and upholstery.
I tested it on a few area rugs and even some upholstered chairs, and it handled all with minimal fuss. Plus, the stain and spot remover worked wonders on a stubborn wine spill I had forgotten about—it’s a game-changer for quick touch-ups.
Overall, this cleaner lives up to the hype, especially if you deal with pets or heavy foot traffic. It’s versatile, effective, and leaves your carpets looking fresh and clean with minimal drying time.
Just keep in mind, the price is a bit higher than basic models, but the results make it worth it.
What Are the Key Features to Consider in Carpet Cleaners with Attachments?
High suction power means that the cleaner can effectively pull dirt and stains from deep within the carpet fibers, leading to a more thorough cleaning experience.
A larger water tank capacity means less interruption during cleaning, allowing for more extensive areas to be cleaned in a single session without the need to stop and refill.
Weight and portability are significant, especially when moving the cleaner between rooms or up and down stairs; a lightweight model makes this process much easier.
Heat and drying technology can enhance the cleaning process by using hot water for better stain removal while allowing carpets to dry quickly to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Ease of use is essential for user satisfaction; if a machine is complicated to operate, it may lead to frustration and underutilization of its features.
A strong filtration system is critical in capturing allergens, which is especially important for households with pets or allergy sufferers, ensuring cleaner air as well as cleaner carpets.
Durability and warranty coverage provide assurance that the investment will last, and if any issues arise, they can be resolved without incurring additional costs.
What Types of Attachments Can Be Used with Carpet Cleaners?
The types of attachments that can enhance the functionality of carpet cleaners include:
- Upholstery Tool: This attachment is designed specifically for cleaning fabric surfaces such as sofas and chairs. It typically features a smaller head and a more concentrated suction to effectively remove dirt and stains from upholstery without damaging the fabric.
- Crevice Tool: Perfect for reaching tight spaces and corners, the crevice tool has a long, narrow design that allows users to clean between cushions, along baseboards, and in other hard-to-reach areas. This attachment helps ensure a thorough clean, capturing dirt that larger tools might miss.
- Stair Tool: Designed for cleaning stairs, this attachment usually has a wider head and is angled to accommodate the shape of staircases. It provides better maneuverability and suction, making it easier to clean each step effectively without having to reposition the entire cleaner.
- Pet Stain Tool: Tailored for pet owners, this tool is equipped with a special nozzle and cleaning solution capabilities to tackle stubborn pet stains and odors. It often features a scrub brush to agitate the carpet fibers and lift embedded dirt and dander.
- Turbo Brush: This attachment features rotating bristles that help lift dirt and debris from carpets effectively. It is especially useful for cleaning high-pile carpets and can also be used on upholstery, providing a deep clean that manual brushing might not achieve.
- Hard Floor Attachment: Some carpet cleaners come with a hard floor attachment that allows for cleaning hard surfaces like tile and hardwood. This tool often has softer brushes or pads to prevent scratching while still providing effective suction and cleaning capabilities.
- Extension Wand: The extension wand allows users to reach higher areas or clean under furniture without straining. It can be attached to various tools for enhanced reach, making it a versatile addition for cleaning both carpets and upholstery.
Which Attachments Are Best for Removing Pet Hair?
The best attachments for removing pet hair from carpets typically include specialized tools designed to pick up fur and debris effectively.
- Pet Hair Brush Attachment: This attachment features rubber bristles that attract and lift pet hair from carpet fibers.
- Turbo Brush Attachment: A motorized brush that uses rotating bristles to agitate carpet fibers, making it easier to remove embedded pet hair.
- Crevice Tool: A narrow tool that allows for cleaning in tight spaces where pet hair often accumulates, such as along edges and corners.
- Upholstery Tool: Designed for cleaning furniture and stairs, this attachment helps to remove pet hair from fibers in upholstery and carpets.
The Pet Hair Brush Attachment is particularly effective due to its unique design that helps to pull hair from the carpet while minimizing tangles. It is often more efficient than standard vacuum attachments, making it a favorite among pet owners.
The Turbo Brush Attachment, with its motorized action, provides additional power that can lift stubborn pet hair embedded deeply within carpet fibers, ensuring a thorough clean. This tool is especially beneficial for homes with pets that shed heavily.
The Crevice Tool is essential for reaching those hard-to-access areas where pet hair tends to build up, such as between furniture and along baseboards. Its slim design allows for precision cleaning, making it a valuable addition to any pet owner’s cleaning arsenal.
The Upholstery Tool is versatile and can be used on both furniture and stairs, effectively removing pet hair from various surfaces. This attachment is particularly useful for maintaining cleanliness in areas where pets frequently rest or travel.
Which Attachments Work Best for Tough Stains?
The best carpet cleaners with attachments for tough stains include specialized tools designed to tackle various types of messes effectively.
- Upholstery Attachment: This attachment is specifically designed for cleaning fabric surfaces and can effectively remove stains from sofas, chairs, and carpets.
- Stain Removal Tool: A compact tool that uses a combination of suction and scrubbing to target tough stains, making it ideal for high-traffic areas and pet messes.
- Crevice Tool: Perfect for reaching narrow spaces, this tool can clean tight corners and edges where dirt and stains often accumulate, ensuring a thorough clean.
- Power Brush Attachment: This attachment uses rotating bristles to agitate the carpet fibers, loosening embedded dirt and stains for more effective cleaning.
- Spot Cleaner Attachment: Specifically designed for quick spot cleaning, this tool can help tackle recent spills and stains before they set, using suction and cleaning solution to lift stains from the carpet.
The upholstery attachment is versatile and effective for cleaning fabric surfaces, making it a great choice for removing stains from various types of furniture and carpets. Its design allows for deep cleaning without damaging the fabric, helping to maintain the integrity of the upholstery.
The stain removal tool is compact and powerful, providing a concentrated approach to tackling tough stains, particularly those caused by pets or spills. Its combination of suction and scrubbing action ensures that even stubborn stains can be effectively lifted from the carpet fibers.
The crevice tool is essential for cleaning hard-to-reach areas, such as corners and edges, where dirt tends to accumulate. Its narrow design allows users to clean effectively without needing to move large furniture, making it a practical choice for thorough cleaning.
The power brush attachment enhances the cleaning process by agitating carpet fibers with rotating bristles. This action not only helps to dislodge dirt and stains but also revitalizes the carpet, making it look fresher and cleaner.
The spot cleaner attachment is invaluable for immediate response to spills and stains. This tool allows users to act quickly, applying cleaning solution and suction directly to the stained area, helping to prevent permanent damage to the carpet.
What Are the Top-Rated Carpet Cleaners with Attachments?
The top-rated carpet cleaners with attachments include versatile machines that enhance cleaning efficiency and effectiveness.
- Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro: This carpet cleaner is designed specifically for pet owners, featuring a powerful suction and a specialized pet stain tool that targets tough stains.
- Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet: Known for its SpinScrub brush technology, this cleaner provides a deep clean with its attachments, including a pet upholstery tool that makes cleaning furniture and hard-to-reach areas a breeze.
- Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: This machine offers a robust cleaning solution with its dual cross-action brushes and includes an attachment for upholstery cleaning, making it effective for both carpets and furniture.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: While primarily a vacuum, this model includes a carpet cleaning attachment, allowing users to deep clean carpets while also being versatile enough to handle hard floors and upholstery.
- Black+Decker Spot Clean Pro: This compact cleaner is ideal for spot cleaning and comes with a variety of attachments, including a tough stain tool that is effective for immediate messes on carpets and upholstery.
Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro: The Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro stands out for its unique features tailored to pet owners, such as its Pet Stain Eraser tool that efficiently removes stains and odors. It also incorporates heatwave technology to maintain water temperature throughout the cleaning process, ensuring a thorough clean.
Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet: This model is praised for its user-friendly design and powerful cleaning capabilities. The SpinScrub brushes rotate in multiple directions, which helps lift dirt and stains from carpets, while the included upholstery tool allows users to clean furniture effectively.
Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: Rug Doctor is synonymous with deep cleaning, and this model does not disappoint. Its strong suction and dual brushes work in tandem to remove embedded dirt, and the upholstery attachment ensures that you can tackle a variety of surfaces beyond just carpets.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: This versatile vacuum cleaner offers a carpet cleaning attachment, making it an excellent choice for those who want a multi-functional machine. Its lift-away feature allows for easy cleaning of stairs and hard-to-reach areas, while still providing powerful suction for carpets.
Black+Decker Spot Clean Pro: Compact yet powerful, the Black+Decker Spot Clean Pro is perfect for quick clean-ups. Its various attachments, especially the tough stain tool, are designed to tackle spills and stains effectively, making it a go-to option for those who require a portable cleaner.
Which Carpet Cleaners Offer the Best Performance?
The best carpet cleaners with attachments provide exceptional cleaning performance and versatility for various surfaces.
- Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro: This carpet cleaner is designed specifically for pet owners and features a powerful motor and dual dirt-lifting brushes.
- Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner: This model is known for its ease of use, with an automatic cleaning system that adjusts to the type of carpet being cleaned.
- Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3: A professional-grade carpet cleaner that offers robust suction and a variety of attachments for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional: While primarily an upright vacuum, it comes with a carpet cleaning attachment that provides excellent performance on carpets.
- McCulloch MC1275 Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner: This steam cleaner uses high-pressure steam to sanitize carpets and comes with multiple attachments for versatile cleaning.
The Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro is equipped with a powerful motor and dual dirt-lifting brushes, making it highly effective for removing pet stains and odors. Its Heatwave Technology maintains consistent water temperature, enhancing cleaning performance.
The Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner features an automatic cleaning system that detects the type of carpet and adjusts its cleaning action accordingly. This user-friendly design makes it easy for anyone to achieve professional-level results without hassle.
The Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 is a favorite among those seeking professional-grade cleaning at home. Its strong suction power and various attachments allow for thorough cleaning of both carpets and upholstery, making it versatile for multiple surfaces.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is primarily an upright vacuum cleaner, but its carpet cleaning attachment allows for effective cleaning of carpets. Its lightweight design and lift-away feature make it convenient for reaching difficult areas.
The McCulloch MC1275 Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner utilizes high-pressure steam to effectively sanitize carpets without the need for harsh chemicals. Its range of attachments provides versatility, allowing users to clean a variety of surfaces beyond just carpets.
What Are the Advantages of Using Carpet Cleaners with Attachments?
The advantages of using carpet cleaners with attachments include enhanced versatility, improved cleaning efficiency, and better access to hard-to-reach areas.
- Versatility: Carpet cleaners with attachments often come with multiple tools designed for various cleaning tasks, such as upholstery, stairs, and even hard surfaces. This allows users to tackle different cleaning challenges without needing separate machines, saving space and money.
- Enhanced Cleaning Power: Attachments like brushes and nozzles are specifically designed to remove deep-set dirt and stains from carpets and other fabrics. These tools can provide targeted cleaning, which is especially beneficial for high-traffic areas or spots with stubborn stains.
- Access to Difficult Areas: Many attachments are designed to reach tight spaces, corners, and crevices that larger machines may struggle with. This ensures a more thorough cleaning in areas that are often neglected, such as behind furniture or along baseboards.
- Convenience: Using attachments can make the cleaning process quicker and more efficient, as they allow for focused cleaning without the need to maneuver a bulky machine. This convenience can lead to a more effective cleaning routine, making it easier to maintain a clean environment.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Investing in a carpet cleaner with attachments can be more economical in the long run, as it reduces the need for additional specialized cleaning equipment. This can be particularly advantageous for households with multiple surfaces requiring different cleaning approaches.
How Should You Maintain Carpet Cleaners with Attachments for Longevity?
To ensure the longevity of carpet cleaners with attachments, proper maintenance practices should be followed:
- Regular Cleaning of Filters: Regularly check and clean the filters to prevent clogs and maintain suction power. Dirty filters can hinder performance and lead to motor strain, reducing the lifespan of the cleaner.
- Emptying the Dirty Water Tank: Always empty the dirty water tank after each use to prevent bacterial growth and odor. Leaving dirty water in the tank can cause buildup and damage the internal components of the cleaner.
- Inspecting and Cleaning Attachments: Regularly inspect the attachments for any debris or damage, and clean them thoroughly after use. Clogged or damaged attachments can affect cleaning efficiency and may need replacement if neglected.
- Storing Properly: Store the carpet cleaner in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Proper storage prevents the development of mold and mildew and protects the cleaner from environmental damage.
- Following Manufacturer’s Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific maintenance tasks and recommended cleaning solutions. Adhering to these instructions ensures that you are using the cleaner correctly and helps avoid voiding warranties.