Best for pet stains
91%of 1,269 owners rate it 4 or 5 starsShark CarpetXpert with StainStriker
- Oxy formula mixed on contact
- Hose and tools always on board
- Strong suction, quick drying
- Small tanks, and not for wool carpets
Best carpet cleaners
The Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker is the carpet cleaner most homes should get. For old, set-in stains, get the BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam Pet; for a rental-grade deep clean, the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3.
Based on 1,444 verified owner ratings and 9 expert reviewsUpdated 1 Nov 2026
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Best for old stains
BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam Pet
- Steam pretreat for set-in stains
- Hot-water washing
- Pet and stair tools
- Heavy, pricey and slow to dry on max
Most powerful
Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3
- Rental-grade build and suction
- Big tanks for whole houses
- Upholstery kit in the UK box
- Heavy, and it cleans only as you pull back
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How we reached this verdict
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: Vacuum Wars, manufacturer specifications.
What 2,674 verified buyers say about their carpet cleaners: every model compared in our buyer ratings study.
Updated 1 Nov 2026How we decide