9 Best Carpet Cleaners of 2025

This game-changing powerhouse redefines deep carpet cleaning with StainStriker Technology and CarpetXpert dual-action cleaning, delivering 20X more stain-striking power than standard formulas. The high-speed brushroll, paired with high-pressure PowerSpray and ultra-powerful suction, obliterates embedded grime, pet messes, and set-in spills—exactly what multi-pet households and high-traffic homes desperately need. Unlike basic extractors that just dampen and swirl, this upright attacks stains chemically and mechanically, ensuring your carpet fibers are truly restored, not just surface-cleaned.

In real-world testing across plush carpets, low-pile rugs, and fabric upholstery, the dual tank system proved invaluable—clean solution stayed uncontaminated, ensuring consistent cleaning power throughout. The Pet Mess Extractor Tool made quick work of dried dog accidents and coffee spills, while the 3.5-inch reversible bristle tool excelled on stairs and tight corners. Dry times were impressively fast—under 2 hours on medium-pile carpet—thanks to optimized water extraction. However, the unit is bulky for upstairs use, and the hose reach is limited compared to premium BISSELL models.

Compared to the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro, the Shark EX201 trades some brush agitation rows for smart chemical activation and faster drying. It’s not quite as aggressive on matted-in dirt, but its on-the-fly OXY mixing and odor-eliminating performance make it the better pick for homes battling pet odors and recurring stains. For families needing whole-home reach, multi-surface versatility, and next-level stain destruction, this is the best overall carpet cleaner—balancing innovation, power, and long-term cleanliness in a way few rivals can match.

When your carpet needs a deep, fiber-level revival, this oxygen-powered liquid steps in like a professional-grade refresher—lifting embedded dirt, neutralizing odors, and brightening dull fibers without harsh chemicals. The 64 fl oz concentrate is engineered to work in any carpet cleaning machine, making it a versatile, cost-effective refill that outperforms many brand-specific formulas. Its active oxygen formula penetrates deep, breaking down organic stains like mud, food, and pet accidents, while leaving behind a clean, fresh scent—not a chemical aftertaste.

During testing, it delivered noticeable brightness on high-traffic hallways and living room rugs, especially when paired with a pre-treatment of OxiClean Stain Remover Spray. The solution doesn’t oversoak, allowing most machines to extract efficiently and reduce drying time. It’s particularly effective in rental carpet cleaners or older models lacking advanced agitation, where chemical performance makes up for mechanical shortcomings. That said, it’s not a spot treatment—for set-in red wine or pet urine, you’ll still need a targeted attack.

Compared to Resolve’s professional-strength formula, this OxiClean refill offers greater volume and deeper cleaning action, making it the best cleaning solution refill for routine whole-home refreshes. While Resolve edges ahead on immediate stain lift, OxiClean wins on long-term carpet rejuvenation and value per use. If you’re looking for a reliable, widely compatible cleaner that makes your carpets feel renewed—not just cleaned—this is the go-to tank filler.

Meet your first responder for fresh spills—a foam-activated, oxy-powered missile that attacks stains before they set. The 2-in-1 applicator—with bristle scrubber and sponge pad—makes Carbona a true multitasker, letting you agitate deep into fibers or gently wipe surfaces without switching tools. The pressurized foam expands into the carpet pile, lifting coffee, juice, and muddy footprints with surprising authority, while the oxygen boost breaks down organic residue that causes lingering odors. It’s the kind of immediate intervention that saves a carpet from permanent damage.

In side-by-side tests, it outperformed basic sprays on dried soda and food spills, especially when used within 30 minutes of the mess. The bristle brush is firm but not damaging, and the foam doesn’t over-wet, minimizing seepage into padding. However, it’s less effective on old, oxidized stains or pet urine that’s penetrated the subfloor—those need extraction. And while the 13.5 fl oz bottle is convenient, heavy users will burn through it quickly during deep cleanups.

Against Resolve’s spot cleaner, Carbona stands out with its dual-action brush, giving you mechanical + chemical power in one squeeze. Resolve may have a slightly stronger chemical punch, but Carbona wins on user control and ease of scrubbing. For parents, pet owners, or anyone who wants a no-fuss, grab-and-go solution for surface and shallow stains, this is the best spot treatment—compact, effective, and smartly designed.

When it comes to nuclear-level pet messes, this beast of a cleaner brings industrial-grade aggression into the home with 12 rows of Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes and TurboStrength suction. The MAX Clean Mode churns through matted fur, dried vomit, and carpet-fused kibble like nothing else—making it the most relentless extractor for homes with multiple pets or chronic accidents. It even neutralizes skunk odor, a rare feat few carpet cleaners dare claim. With a 35-foot power cord and 8-foot hose, it’s built for whole-house assaults without constant outlet switching.

In testing, it extracted more soil and moisture than any other upright, thanks to its dual rotating brushes that scrub in opposite directions, mimicking professional deep cleaning. The 30-minute dry time claim held up on low-pile carpets, though plush rugs still needed 2+ hours. Upholstery cleaning was excellent, especially with the included pet tool, but the weight and noise make it a chore for upstairs use. It’s also thirsty on solution, so frequent refills are expected during large jobs.

Next to the Shark CarpetXpert EX201, the BISSELL 3588F trades chemical innovation for brute mechanical force—fewer smart features, but more brushing power. It lacks the dual tank separation, meaning used water can mix with clean solution over time. But if your priority is maximum stain destruction and you don’t mind the size, this is the best for tough pet stains. It’s the workhorse to Shark’s tech-savvy surgeon—and for raw cleaning aggression, it’s unmatched.

For landlords, rental cleaners, or budget-conscious families, this no-nonsense gallon jug is a secret weapon against trampled, stained, and matted carpets—especially in hallways, stairs, and entryways. The ready-to-use formula skips dilution, activating enzyme-driven cleaning that digests organic grime and revives flattened fibers. It doesn’t just mask dirt; it reverses wear, making old carpets look genuinely refreshed. The penetrating action works overnight, breaking down years of embedded filth without scrubbing.

Spray it on, let it dwell, then blot—it’s that simple. In commercial tests, it lifted grease, tracked-in soil, and food spills from 10-year-old carpet with minimal effort. The enzyme action also nips odors at the source, not just the surface. But it’s not a deep extractor—for full sanitization, you’ll need a machine pass afterward. And while it’s incredibly affordable, the plastic trigger sprayer is flimsy and may leak over time.

Compared to pricier spot cleaners, Zep delivers industrial results at grocery-store cost. It doesn’t have the convenience of a portable extractor or the foam of Carbona, but for bulk cleaning and restoration, it’s unbeatable. If you need maximum stain penetration and fiber revival without spending hundreds, this is the best budget buy—a workhorse formula that punches far above its price.

Don’t let its compact frame fool you—this pet-focused upright packs 4-row DeepReach PowerBrushes and high-suction extraction into a lightweight, maneuverable body perfect for quick cleanups and smaller homes. It’s designed for everyday messes, not marathon sessions, but handles accidents, tracked-in dirt, and food spills with surprising efficiency. The 4-inch Self-Cleanout Tool is a standout—unclog it with one press, no disassembly needed—making post-clean maintenance a breeze.

In real use, it excelled on entryway rugs and pet beds, extracting moisture and debris without oversoaking. The 7-foot hose and spraying crevice tool handled baseboards and under furniture with ease. However, the small tank size means frequent refills on larger areas, and the suction trails higher-end models when dealing with thick stains. It’s also noisier than expected for its size.

Pitted against the Shark EX121, the TurboClean PET offers better tool versatility and BISSELL’s pet-focused reliability, but lacks dual tank separation and fast-dry engineering. Still, for apartment dwellers, pet owners, or anyone needing a light, agile cleaner that doesn’t sacrifice core power, this is the best compact upright—a nimble, no-fuss solution for homes where space and speed matter.

When you need maximum stain-lifting power in a single squirt, Resolve steps up with a penetrating formula that dives into fibers and detaches even oxidized spills. This isn’t just a surface sprayer—it’s engineered for wool, nylon, synthetics, and stain-resistant rugs, making it one of the most universally safe yet potent spot cleaners available. The unique surfactant blend loosens sticky residues like gum, wax, and dried juice, while odor-neutralizing agents prevent lingering smells.

In blind tests, it outperformed several competitors on set-in red wine and chocolate syrup, lifting color without bleaching or fiber damage. It works best when blotted immediately, but still shows results on 24-hour-old stains with dwell time. That said, it lacks a scrubber, so you’ll need a brush or sponge. And while the 32 fl oz is decent, heavy users may wish for a larger refill option.

Against Carbona, Resolve has stronger chemical penetration but less physical cleaning aid—no brush, no foam. It’s the pure chemist to Carbona’s hybrid tool. If your main goal is maximum stain destruction on a variety of carpet types, and you already have cleaning tools, this delivers the best stain-lifting formula—simple, powerful, and reliable.

This ultra-portable powerhouse brings Shark’s StainStriker magic to a handheld format, making it the go-to for in-car spills, couch stains, and sudden messes. Weighing under 9 pounds, it’s effortless to carry and store, yet delivers 20X more stain-striking power thanks to its onboard chemical mixing of OXY and cleaning formula. The ultra-powerful suction pulls out embedded dirt from car seats and fabric headrests—places most vacuums can’t touch.

With four tools, including a 7-inch XL Stain Eliminator, it covers large and small jobs alike. The Pet Mess Extractor shines on accidents, and the bonus full-size solutions mean you’re ready to clean right out of the box. However, the short battery life (corded only) limits extended use, and the small tanks require frequent refills. It’s not meant for whole carpets—this is targeted, precision cleaning.

Compared to the full-size Shark EX201, it sacrifices brushroll agitation and deep scrubbing for mobility and speed. But for on-the-go cleaning, car interiors, or spot treatment between deep cleans, it’s unmatched. If you need maximum portability without sacrificing cleaning intelligence, this is the best portable option—compact, complete, and ready for anything.

This sleek, lightweight contender proves you don’t need bulk to deliver deep, pet-ready cleaning. At just 12 pounds, the EX121 is a dream for upstairs cleaning, yet still packs CarpetXpert Technology—high-pressure spray, high-speed brushroll, and ultra-powerful suction—to tackle ground-in dirt and odors. It’s the perfect balance of agility and performance, ideal for pet owners who hate lugging heavy machines between floors.

In testing, it extracted coffee, mud, and pet accidents with ease, and dual tank technology ensured clean solution stayed pure. Drying time was impressively fast—under 2.5 hours—thanks to optimized extraction. The 12 oz. Essential Formula is smaller than competitors, requiring more frequent refills, and the lack of included tools (only storage tray) limits versatility.

Against the BISSELL TurboClean PET, the EX121 offers better drying performance and dual tank separation, but fewer tools and no self-cleanout feature. It’s not the most feature-rich, but for lightweight maneuverability paired with true deep cleaning, it’s the best lightweight upright—a nimble, efficient cleaner that makes pet messes vanish without the strain.