If you have wall-to-wall carpeting, you know the struggle. From muddy footprints and pet accidents to spilled juice and ground-in dirt, carpets take a real beating. To keep them looking fresh and extend their life, regular deep cleaning is a must.
But pushing around a clunky rented cleaner or scrubbing fruitlessly by hand just leads to lackluster results and sore knees. That’s where Shark carpet cleaners come in. Engineered for top-notch cleaning power in a convenient design, Shark carpet cleaners make it simple to revive dingy, matted carpets yourself.
In this guide, we’ll cover my picks for the top 5 Shark carpet cleaning machines in 2023. You’ll also learn key factors to consider when choosing a model and get answers to frequently asked questions. Let’s banish those carpet stains for good!
Ranking the Top 5 Shark Carpet Cleaners
Known for their innovative vacuum cleaners and floor care products, Shark also produces some of the best carpet cleaning machines for home use. Here are my current top picks:
1. Shark Vertex DuoClean PowerFins Upright Carpet Cleaner
With superb dirt-lifting capabilities, this is my top choice for deep cleaning carpets of all types. The PowerFins brushroll works in conjunction with DuoClean technology to loosen and remove embedded dirt from carpet fibers.
Large capacity, separate clean and dirty water tanks make cleaning efficient. Bright LED headlights illuminate debris and stains so you don’t miss a spot. Strong suction power paired with powerful brushrolls give outstanding cleaning results.
2. Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
This 2-in-1 vacuum and carpet cleaner tackles dirt with its advanced upright design. The Lift-Away canister detaches to become a portable cleaner for stairs, upholstery and hard-to-reach spots.
Equipped with a HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology, it traps dust and allergens while cleansing carpets. Thick, dense brushrolls scrub carpeting on both the forward and backward pass.
3. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum
Another upright vacuum with detachable canister for portable cleaning, this affordable model has powerful suction for whole-home carpet care. The Lift-Away pod easily cleans stairs, furniture and more.
Swivel steering and a HEPA filter make cleaning effortless while trapping allergens. Helpful accessories like a crevice tool, pet multi-tool and brushrolls simplify detailed carpet cleaning.
4. Shark APEX Upright Vacuum with DuoClean and Zero-M
Self-cleaning technology sets this innovative upright carpet cleaner apart. The Zero-M brushroll removes hair wrap and debris automatically as you clean.
DuoClean PowerFins scrub carpets, while Anti-Allergen Complete Seal + HEPA filtration traps dust. The self-cleaning brushroll maintains peak performance, no manual cleaning needed.
5. Shark Rocket Pet Pro Cordless Stick Vacuum
Perfect for quick cleanups between deep cleans, this versatile cordless stick vacuum doubles as a handheld model. The DuoClean brushroll and lightweight design make stairs and furniture easy.
Specialized pet cleaning attachments like a motorized brush, under-appliance wand, and upholstery tool handle pet hair and odors. Two batteries enable extended run time.
Now that you know my top Shark carpet cleaner picks, let’s explore how to select the best model for your floors and lifestyle.
Choosing the Right Shark Carpet Cleaner for You
With a wide range of models and features available, it helps to evaluate a few key factors when shopping:
Carpet Fiber Types
Consider the fiber blends in your wall-to-wall carpeting or area rugs. Models like the Shark Vertex with PowerFins excel at deep cleaning delicate fibers like wool while being gentle.
Cleaning Technology
Shark uses several proprietary technologies to optimize carpet cleaning. DuoClean combines a soft brushroll for surface dust with a bristled brush to lift dirt from carpet piles. PowerFins tackles embedded debris.
Home Size and Carpet Area
Calculate the total square footage of carpeting you need to regularly clean. Large homes generally benefit from uprights with greater water capacity and larger brushrolls.
Portability Needs
If you have lots of stairs or need to clean furniture, cars, and more, a detachable canister model like the Shark Rotator Lift-Away adds versatility.
Suction Power
Stronger suction makes a big difference in pulling up liquid and dirt from carpet fibers. Compare suction ratings when choosing.
Filter Type
HEPA filters are ideal for trapping dust, dirt, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens when cleaning carpets. This keeps particles from recirculating into the air.
Accessories Included
Look for models that come with useful attachments like upholstery tools, pet hair brushes, crevice tools and more. These enable detailed carpet cleaning jobs.
Reviews and Ratings
Don’t just take the manufacturer’s word for it. Read feedback and reviews by consumers to gauge real-world cleaning performance before purchasing.
Now that you know what to look for in a carpet cleaner, let’s explore some common questions about Shark models.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shark Carpet Cleaners
Here are answers to some of the top questions consumers have about Shark’s carpet cleaning machines:
What is the best Shark cleaner for pet messes?
The Shark Vertex and Shark Rocket Pet Pro excel here thanks to PowerFins/DuoClean brushrolls that deep clean pet stains plus attachments for removing hair and odor.
How often should I clean carpets with a Shark?
Aim to deep clean carpets every 6-12 months minimum, or more frequently for homes with kids, pets or allergy issues. Spot clean as needed between deep cleans.
What carpet cleaning solutions can I use?
Shark cleaners are designed for their own cleaning formulas but you can also use most major brand carpet shampoo solutions. Avoid harsh bleaches or acidic cleaners.
How do I clean and maintain the machine?
Rinse dirty water tanks thoroughly after use. Replace filters periodically. Check brushes and brushrolls for debris buildup or damage.
Do Shark cleaners have HEPA filters?
Many models like the Shark Rotator, Navigator, and APEX include true HEPA filters but not all. Double check specs if filtration is important to you.
What is the warranty?
Shark provides a limited 5-year warranty on most components. Ensure you register after buying to take advantage of coverage.
Are Shark cleaners heavy to maneuver?
Thanks to swivel steering, lift-away canisters, and design tweaks, Shark’s carpet cleaners are more manageable than many alternatives. But uprights still have some heft.
Can they handle stairs and high pile carpets?
The PowerFins brushroll excels at cleaning challenging surfaces like plush carpets and stairs. Detachable canisters make stairs easier too.
How noisy are they?
Shark carpet cleaners operate at around 70-80 decibels, on par with other vacuums. Not silent but the hum isn’t excessive.
Do I need special detergent?
Shark’s own professional formulas are recommended but you can use name brand carpet cleaning solutions as well.
Give Your Carpets the Deep Clean They Deserve
Maintaining clean carpets not only keeps your home looking great but can improve air quality and prevent premature carpet replacement. Shark carpet cleaners are designed to make DIY carpet cleaning convenient, effective, and affordable.
Now that you know which models consistently top the charts along with handy buying tips and FAQs, you can shop confidently. Bring out the true color and softness of your wall-to-wall carpeting again. Your toes will thank you!
