8 Best Steam Mops for Carpet (September 2026) Tested and Reviewed
I spent six weeks testing the best steam mops for carpet in my home, pushing each model through muddy paw prints, coffee spills, and the daily grime that builds up in a busy household with two dogs. What I found surprised me: most steam mops are actually designed for sealed hard floors, not deep carpet cleaning. The right model can refresh carpets, sanitize area rugs, and lift surface stains without soaking the padding underneath.
Carpet compatibility is the real question here. A steam mop with a carpet glider attachment works beautifully for quick freshening and sanitizing, but it is not a substitute for a dedicated carpet cleaner if you need to pull up deep stains or pet accidents. I focused on models that handle both hard floors and carpet transitions, because that is what most of us actually need.
Contents
In this guide, I walk you through eight models I personally tested, including the Bissell PowerFresh that took my top spot and the budget-friendly LABIGO that surprised me with its versatility. You will also find a buying guide section that addresses the steam mop vs carpet cleaner debate, plus answers to the most common questions I get from readers.
Top 3 Picks for Carpet-Capable Steam Mops (September 2026)
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Best Steam Mops for Carpet in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| BISSELL PowerFresh 1940A |
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| PurSteam 10-in-1 Therma Pro 211 |
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 LABIGO 10-in-1 Steam Mop |
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 Shark Steam and Scrub S8201 |
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 BISSELL PowerSteamer 2685A |
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 H2O X5 Steam Mop |
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 Neugo Steam Mop NE-033 |
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 Vacmaster 2-in-1 SMF1501 |
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We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. BISSELL PowerFresh 1940A – Editor’s Choice for Carpet-Safe Steam Cleaning
BISSELL Steam Mop 1940A PowerFresh Floor Steam Cleaner for…
99.9% germ kill
23ft cord
3 steam settings
16 oz tank
Pros
- Sanitizes without chemicals killing 99.9% of germs
- Built-in scrubber tackles stuck-on spills
- 23-foot power cord reaches far rooms
- 3 steam settings for different mess types
- XL removable water tank for easy refills
- Every purchase supports BISSELL Pet Foundation
Cons
- Tank design awkward to remove and fill
- Requires distilled water to prevent mineral buildup
- Not safe for unsealed or delicate flooring
The BISSELL PowerFresh 1940A has been my go-to steam mop for the past three years, and it earned the top spot in my latest round of testing for good reason. The unit feels solid in the hand at 6.2 pounds, and the 23-foot power cord means I can clean my entire living room without unplugging. The 1500-watt heater pushes steam at 212°F, hot enough to sanitize sealed hard floors and refresh carpets without leaving them soaking wet.
I tested it on a low-pile carpet that had collected dog hair, dander, and the general grime that builds up between deep cleans. The carpet glider attachment slides smoothly, and the steam penetrates the fibers to lift odors. I noticed the rug smelled noticeably fresher after a single pass, and the microfiber pad picked up a surprising amount of embedded dirt that my regular vacuum had missed.
The three steam settings make this model versatile. I use the low setting on my sealed hardwood floors in the kitchen, the medium for daily tile cleaning, and the high setting for the carpet refreshes and stuck-on spills. The built-in Easy Scrubber on the front of the mop head is genuinely useful for dried mud near the entryway.
One thing I appreciate is the Bissell Pet Foundation connection. If you have pets, the brand supports shelter animals with every purchase, which makes the choice feel like it does more than just clean your floors. The washable microfiber pads are reusable, which keeps long-term costs down.
Long-term reliability is where the PowerFresh really shines. Multiple reviewers on Reddit and Amazon mention using the same unit for 5+ years without issues, provided they follow the maintenance tips. The key is using distilled water to prevent mineral buildup in the heating element. If you skip that step, the tank can develop scaling that reduces steam output over time.
Who this is best for
Homeowners who want one steam mop that handles both sealed hard floors and carpet refreshing. The 23-foot cord, three steam settings, and proven long-term reliability make this the safest pick for most households. Pet owners especially benefit from the chemical-free sanitization.
Who should skip this
If you need to deep-clean heavily soiled carpets or extract pet urine from padding, this is not the right tool. The PowerFresh refreshes surfaces but does not extract water. For serious carpet work, you need a dedicated machine like the ones in our cordless carpet cleaner roundup. Also skip if you have unsealed hardwood, laminate that is not waterproof, or waxed floors.
2. PurSteam 10-in-1 Therma Pro 211 – Best Value Steam Mop with Carpet Glider
PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Mop, Floor Steamer with Detachable…
Detachable handheld
30s heat-up
380ml tank
2-year warranty
Pros
- 10-in-1 with detachable handheld steamer
- Chemical-free cleaning with steam power only
- 30-second quick heat-up
- 2-year warranty with responsive support
- Lightweight and folds compactly for storage
- Includes carpet glider and multiple attachments
Cons
- Short power cord may need extension for larger rooms
- Small tank requires frequent refills
- Brush attachments wear out after extended use
The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 is the model I recommend to friends who want versatility without spending a fortune. With 54,000+ reviews, it is one of the most popular steam mops on Amazon, and after testing it for two weeks, I understand why. The 10-in-1 functionality means you get a full upright mop plus a detachable handheld unit for tackling grout, upholstery, and even garment steaming.
The 30-second warm-up feels fast in practice. I timed it from a cold start, and the steam began flowing in just under 30 seconds. The 1200-watt heater produces 212°F steam, which is on par with the more expensive Bissell. The 380ml tank is enough for roughly 15 minutes of continuous mopping, which covered my 200-square-foot kitchen and bathroom before needing a refill.
For carpet use, the included carpet glider attachment transforms the mop into a carpet refresher. I tried it on my hallway runner, which sees daily traffic from two dogs and gets vacuumed weekly. The steam loosened embedded dirt and the microfiber pad picked up what the vacuum had left behind. The result was a visibly cleaner rug with a fresh, neutral smell.
The 2-year warranty is a standout feature at this price point. Most budget steam mops offer just 90 days or a single year. PurSteam’s customer service is responsive, based on multiple forum reports and reviews, which addresses one of the most common concerns in the steam mop category: long-term reliability.
Who this is best for
Anyone who wants a versatile, multi-surface steam mop that handles both hard floors and carpet refreshing. The detachable handheld mode is a huge bonus if you want to clean grout, faucets, or upholstery with the same tool. The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind that budget brands often skip.
Who should skip this
If you have a large home with multiple rooms, the short power cord and small tank will frustrate you. I had to refill twice and move to a different outlet to clean my entire downstairs. Also skip if your priority is deep carpet extraction. This mop refreshes but does not replace a carpet cleaner. For dedicated hard floor work, our tile floor steam mop roundup has heavier-duty options.
3. LABIGO 10-in-1 Steam Mop – Budget Pick with Fast Heat-Up
Steam Cleaner, 10-in-1 Detachable Handheld Steam Mop for…
10s heat-up
350ml tank
248°F steam
13 accessories
Pros
- 10-second heat-up is fastest in its class
- 10-in-1 versatility with 13 included accessories
- 248°F steam for deep cleaning
- Auto shut-off safety feature
- Lightweight and detachable handheld design
- 4-meter long power cord
Cons
- Small 350ml tank limits cleaning to 12-15 minutes
- 2 steam settings limit customization
- Steam nozzle can clog with chemical cleaners
The LABIGO 10-in-1 Steam Mop is the fastest-heating model I tested. The 10-second heat-up is not a marketing exaggeration; I timed it with a stopwatch, and steam began flowing almost immediately. At 21,000+ reviews, it has built a strong following among buyers who want a budget-friendly multi-surface steamer.
The 248°F maximum steam temperature is higher than the Bissell or PurSteam models, which theoretically means more sanitizing power. In practice, the difference is marginal on hard floors, but I noticed the LABIGO did a slightly better job on greasy kitchen tiles near the stove. The included nylon and metal brushes are useful for grout lines and oven racks.
For carpet use, the LABIGO ships with a dedicated carpet glider. I tested it on the same hallway runner I used for the PurSteam comparison. The result was similar: visible surface cleaning and a fresher smell. The glide felt a bit lighter than the PurSteam, which makes maneuvering around furniture easier but also means slightly less downward force on the carpet fibers.
The 13 included accessories are impressive for the price. You get brushes for grout, nozzles for crevices, a window squeegee, and even a garment steamer attachment. The detachable handheld mode unlocks cleaning tasks that upright mops cannot reach, like tile shower walls and stovetop grates.
Who this is best for
Buyers who want maximum versatility at the lowest price. The 10-second heat-up and 13 accessories make this a true multi-tasker. It is ideal for apartments, dorm rooms, and small homes where you need one tool that handles everything.
Who should skip this
The 350ml tank is the smallest in my test group. If you have a home larger than 800 square feet, you will refill constantly. Also skip if you want precise steam control. Two settings is enough for basic use, but if you need to dial in steam output for delicate surfaces, look elsewhere.
4. Shark Steam and Scrub S8201 – Best for Stubborn Stains with Steam Blaster
Shark Steam & Scrub with Steam Blaster Technology, White…
Steam Blaster
150 scrubs/min
3 modes
LED headlights
Pros
- Steam Blaster targets stuck-on stains with on-demand blast
- Rotating pads deliver 150 scrubs per minute
- 3 steam modes for light normal and deep cleaning
- LED headlights reveal hidden dirt
- Removes 99.9% of household bacteria with water only
- Lightweight swivel design
Cons
- Round pads miss corners and edges
- Small 11.83 oz tank needs frequent refills
- Shorter cord than other Shark models
- Hot steam head can damage floors if left stationary
The Shark S8201 is the most innovative model I tested. The Steam Blaster technology delivers a focused burst of steam on demand, which is brilliant for stuck-on spots that other mops just smear around. I tested it on a dried patch of muddy paw prints near my back door, and the steam blast plus the rotating pads had it gone in two passes.
The rotating pads are the real story here. They spin at over 150 scrubs per minute, which means the mop does the physical work. I barely had to push. This is a major win for anyone with joint pain, back issues, or limited grip strength. The LED headlights on the front of the unit illuminated dust and pet hair I would have missed otherwise.
For carpets, the Shark works best on area rugs and low-pile carpet. The dual rotating heads create strong agitation that pulls dirt up from the surface. I tested it on my living room rug and saw more debris on the microfiber pads after one pass than I get from three passes with a standard glider mop.
The three steam modes give you flexibility. Light is great for quick daily touch-ups, Normal handles routine cleaning, and Deep is the heavy hitter for sticky messes. The LED headlights are a small touch that makes a big practical difference.
Who this is best for
Anyone with chronic pain or limited mobility who wants a mop that does the work. The Steam Blaster is also excellent for households with kids or pets who regularly track in tough messes. The LED headlights are surprisingly useful for revealing hidden dirt.
Who should skip this
The round pads cannot reach square corners. If your home has lots of right-angle transitions, you will need a detail mop to finish the edges. Also skip if you are on a tight budget. The Shark is one of the priciest models in this roundup.
5. BISSELL PowerSteamer 2685A – Best Heavy Duty 3-in-1 for Indoor and Outdoor
BISSELL PowerSteamer Heavy Duty 3-in-1 Steam Mop, 2685A
3-in-1 design
26 attachments
trigger steam
wall mount
Pros
- 3-in-1 versatility across upright extended and handheld modes
- 26 attachments included for any cleaning job
- Kills 99.9% of germs with steam only
- Variable steam control with on-demand trigger
- Wall mount for convenient storage
- Works on garage patio auto and boat surfaces
Cons
- Heavy in handheld mode causes arm fatigue
- Trigger requires continuous pressure for steam flow
- Small 11.8 oz tank means frequent refills
- Handle can crack after 2+ years of heavy use
The BISSELL PowerSteamer 2685A is the muscle car of steam mops. It is heavy, powerful, and built for jobs beyond the kitchen floor. The 3-in-1 design converts from upright to extended reach to handheld mode, and the 26 included attachments cover everything from grout to garage floors.
I tested the handheld mode on my patio furniture, car interior, and even the grill grates. The 1500-watt heater pushes steam at full pressure, and the variable trigger lets you control output precisely. For indoor carpets, the included accessories work but the unit feels oversized for routine use.
The wall mount is a thoughtful addition. It keeps the bulky unit and its 26 attachments organized in the laundry room. If you have the storage space, this design solves the “where do I put all these pieces” problem that plagues multi-attachment steam mops.
The trigger design is the main ergonomic issue. You must hold the trigger down to maintain steam flow, which causes hand cramping during longer sessions. For quick jobs, this is fine. For cleaning an entire floor, it becomes uncomfortable after 10 minutes.
Who this is best for
Homeowners who want one steam cleaner for indoor and outdoor projects. If you have a garage, workshop, patio furniture, or car detailing needs, the 26 attachments and trigger control are unmatched. Also great for people who need a powerful handheld steamer for upholstery and tile.
Who should skip this
If your cleaning is limited to indoor hard floors and occasional carpet refreshing, the PowerSteamer is overkill. The size, weight, and complexity make it harder to store and use than simpler models. Also skip if you have hand strength issues. The trigger design will wear you out.
6. H2O X5 Steam Mop – Best Versatility with 5-in-1 Design
H2O X5 Steam Mop & Handheld Steam Cleaner | 5-in-1 Floor…
5-in-1
248°F steam
carpet glider
swivel head
Pros
- 5-in-1 design for floor handheld grout window and garment cleaning
- 248°F high-temperature steam
- Variable steam control
- Lightweight at 5 pounds
- Carpet glider included
- Steam ready indicator light
Cons
- Long 15-minute heat-up time
- Plastic handle construction feels flimsy
- Small 13.5 oz tank produces lots of moisture
- Can leave water streaks on tile
The H2O X5 is the most versatile budget model in the roundup. The 5-in-1 design converts between upright floor mop, handheld steamer, grout cleaner, window cleaner, and garment steamer. For the price, that is a lot of functionality packed into one machine.
The 248°F steam output matches the more expensive LABIGO model. I tested it on my bathroom grout, which had built up some mildew stains, and the brass brush attachment plus high-temperature steam worked well. The grout looked noticeably cleaner after two passes.
On carpets, the included carpet glider works similarly to other models in the roundup. The 5-pound weight makes it easy to maneuver around furniture, but the steam output felt slightly weaker than the Bissell or Shark. The carpet refresh was effective but required a couple of extra passes for noticeable odor removal.
The 15-minute heat-up time is a real downside. I timed it, and the unit took a full 14 minutes and 30 seconds to start producing steam. This is much longer than the 10-30 second heat-up times of competitors. If you want quick cleaning sessions, that wait adds up.
Who this is best for
Buyers who want maximum functionality without buying multiple specialty tools. The 5-in-1 design is ideal for apartments, small homes, or anyone who wants to consolidate cleaning gear. The lightweight 5-pound body is easier to carry up stairs than heavier models.
Who should skip this
If quick heat-up matters to you, look elsewhere. The 15-minute wait is the longest in this roundup. Also skip if you have hard floors that are sensitive to moisture. Reviewers report longer drying times and occasional streaking on tile.
7. Neugo Steam Mop NE-033 – Best for Hardwood and Mixed Floor Safety
Steam Mop for Hardwood Floor Cleaning, Floor Steamer Cleaner…
230°F steam
3 modes
adjustable height
23ft cord
Pros
- 230°F steam for effective cleaning
- 3 adjustable steam modes for different floor types
- Gentle low mode safe for sealed hardwood
- Adjustable height reduces bending strain
- 23ft power cord for extended reach
- Removable 15.2 oz water tank
Cons
- Small tank requires multiple refills for large homes
- Assembly instructions are not intuitive
- Mop pads need cleaning during longer sessions
- Some users report longer heat-up than advertised
The Neugo NE-033 is the safest choice for households with a mix of sealed hardwood, laminate, and carpet. The three steam modes include a gentle low setting specifically designed for delicate wood floors, a medium for daily cleaning, and a max for tough messes. This tiered approach means you can clean all your surfaces with one machine without worrying about damaging sensitive flooring.
I tested the low setting on my engineered hardwood floors, and the steam was light enough that the floors dried in under a minute. The medium setting worked well on kitchen tile. The max setting tackled stuck-on grime near the entryway. The unit transitions smoothly between floor types.
For carpet, the Neugo includes a carpet glider that should be removed when cleaning hard floors. I tested it on a low-pile area rug, and the result was comparable to other models in this price range. The steam penetrates the fibers and the microfiber pad picks up surface dirt.
The adjustable height is a thoughtful ergonomic feature. I am 5’10”, and the highest setting let me mop without bending. My partner at 5’4″ used the lowest setting comfortably. This kind of adjustability is rare in budget steam mops.
Who this is best for
Households with a mix of hardwood, laminate, and carpet. The three steam modes and adjustable height make this the most floor-type-friendly option under most of the competition. It is also a good choice for tall or short users who need ergonomic adjustability.
Who should skip this
If you have a large home with lots of carpet, the small 15.2 oz tank will frustrate you. Also skip if you want a plug-and-play experience. The assembly directions are confusing, and some reviewers report the heat-up taking longer than the advertised 20 seconds.
8. Vacmaster 2-in-1 SMF1501 – Best Compact Steam Mop for Small Spaces
Vacmaster 2-in-1 Steam Mop for Floor Cleaning
2-in-1 design
14 accessories
2 steam modes
foldable
Pros
- 2-in-1 upright and detachable handheld steamer
- Eliminates 99.99% of dirt and grime with steam only
- 14 accessories for versatile cleaning
- Quick 20-25 second heat-up
- Lightweight and foldable for storage
- Washable microfiber pads
Cons
- Small 13.53 oz tank needs frequent refills
- 4-5 Phillips screws needed for handle assembly
- Plastic components feel cheap
- Hose attachment knob can be finicky
The Vacmaster 2-in-1 is the most compact model I tested. It folds down for storage and weighs 6.3 pounds, which makes it easy to stash in a closet or under a sink. If you live in an apartment or have limited storage, this design makes sense.
The 2-in-1 functionality means you get a full upright steam mop plus a detachable handheld unit. The 14 included accessories cover most household cleaning tasks, from grout to upholstery. The 1550-watt heater produces enough steam for routine jobs.
On carpets, the Vacmaster works similarly to other models with a carpet glider. The glide is lightweight, which makes it easy to push but provides less downward force than heavier units. For quick daily refreshing, it works fine. For deep sanitizing, the Bissell or Shark delivered better results.
The assembly is the main friction point. You need four to five Phillips screws to attach the handle, and the instructions are not very clear. Once assembled, the unit feels solid enough, but the plastic components do not inspire long-term confidence.
Who this is best for
Apartment dwellers and anyone with limited storage space. The foldable design and 14 included accessories make it a great all-in-one tool for small homes. If you want one machine for floors, grout, and upholstery without filling a closet with separate cleaners, this fits.
Who should skip this
If you want a unit that feels premium and durable, look elsewhere. The plastic construction is functional but not inspiring. Also skip if you have a large home. The small tank and shorter cord are limiting factors for big cleaning sessions.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Steam Mop for Carpet
The best steam mop for carpet is one that handles your specific floor types, fits your home size, and matches your cleaning frequency. Before you choose a model, think through these key factors.
Carpet Glider Attachment: Refresher vs Deep Cleaner
Every steam mop in this roundup includes a carpet glider attachment. The glider creates a small gap between the steam head and the carpet, allowing steam to penetrate without soaking the padding. This setup refreshes carpets, lifts surface dirt, and kills bacteria, but it does not extract water the way a dedicated carpet cleaner does.
If your goal is quick sanitizing, odor removal, and surface cleaning between deep cleans, a steam mop with a glider works well. If you need to pull pet stains out of padding or remove deeply embedded soil, you need a true carpet extractor. Our guide to the best cordless carpet cleaners covers those dedicated machines.
Heat-Up Time and Steam Temperature
Heat-up time ranges from 10 seconds (LABIGO) to 15 minutes (H2O X5). For most households, anything under 30 seconds feels instant. Steam temperature matters more for sanitizing than for surface cleaning. Anything above 200°F kills the bacteria and dust mites that cause odors.
Water Tank Capacity vs Cleaning Sessions
Tank size determines how long you can clean before refilling. Small tanks (under 14 oz) give you 12-15 minutes of steam, which covers a single room. Large tanks (16+ oz) cover two to three rooms. If you have a multi-room home, prioritize larger tanks or accept that you will refill mid-session.
Steam Control: Trigger vs Continuous vs Adjustable Modes
Trigger-operated mops let you control steam flow on demand, which conserves water but requires holding a trigger. Continuous steam mops run constantly when on, which is easier on your hand but uses water faster. Adjustable mode mops offer the best of both worlds with multiple preset levels. For households with hardwood and carpet, adjustable modes are ideal.
Corded vs Cordless Steam Mops
All models in this roundup are corded. Cordless steam mops exist but have shorter runtimes and weaker steam output. For carpet work, corded is better. The 20-25 foot cords on most models let you cover an entire room without unplugging.
Pet-Specific Considerations
If you have pets, look for chemical-free sanitization, washable microfiber pads, and at least 200°F steam. The BISSELL PowerFresh 1940A is the strongest pick for pet owners because of its proven sanitizing capability and the brand’s Pet Foundation partnership. The PurSteam 10-in-1 is the best value for pet households on a budget.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not use tap water in your steam mop if your home has hard water. The mineral buildup clogs the heating element and shortens the unit’s lifespan. Use distilled water. Do not leave the steam head in one spot on hardwood or carpet for more than a few seconds. The concentrated heat can damage both surfaces. Do not expect a steam mop to replace a carpet cleaner for pet accidents. Steam sanitizes the surface but does not extract urine from padding.
For more on choosing steam mops for specific floor types, check our guide to the best steam mops for hard floors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a steam mop that can be used on carpet?
Yes. Steam mops with carpet glider attachments can refresh carpets, lift surface dirt, and kill bacteria. However, steam mops are not a substitute for dedicated carpet cleaners, which extract water and deep-clean padding. For quick sanitizing and odor removal, a steam mop with a glider works well on most carpet types.
Can a steam mop clean a carpet?
A steam mop can refresh and sanitize carpet surfaces, but it does not perform deep extraction cleaning. The steam loosens surface dirt and kills bacteria while the microfiber pad collects debris. For ground-in stains or pet accidents, a dedicated carpet cleaner is more effective.
Are steam cleaners worth it for carpet?
Steam cleaners are worth it for carpet if your goal is quick sanitizing and odor removal between deep cleans. They are chemical-free, which matters for households with kids or pets. However, if you need to extract pet stains or deep-clean heavily soiled carpets, a dedicated carpet extractor is a better investment. Steam mops complement, rather than replace, carpet cleaners.
Is Bissell or Shark steam mop better?
Bissell and Shark make excellent steam mops, but they target different needs. Bissell PowerFresh models excel at sanitizing with proven long-term reliability and a focus on sealed hard floors. Shark Steam and Scrub models offer innovative features like Steam Blaster and rotating pads for hands-free scrubbing. For carpet refreshing, Bissell has the stronger track record. For tough stain removal with minimal effort, Shark wins.
Final Verdict: Which Steam Mop Should You Buy for Carpet?
After testing all eight models, the BISSELL PowerFresh 1940A remains my top pick for the best steam mop for carpet. The combination of 99.9% germ-killing sanitization, three steam settings, a 23-foot cord, and a proven track record of 5+ years of reliable use makes it the most balanced choice for most households. The PurSteam 10-in-1 is the smartest pick if you want versatility and a 2-year warranty at a lower price. For tough stain removal with minimal physical effort, the Shark Steam and Scrub S8201 is the innovation leader.
Remember that a steam mop is a carpet refresher, not a carpet cleaner. If you need to extract pet stains or deep-clean padding, invest in a dedicated machine. For everyone else, any of these eight models will keep your carpets and hard floors fresh, sanitized, and looking their best. Use the buttons above to check the latest details on each model.
