If your carpets are looking a little worse for wear these days, it might be time to invest in a carpet cleaner. Carpet cleaning machines are essential for keeping your carpets fresh, clean, and extending their life. With so many models on the market, it can be tricky to determine which is right for your needs and budget. This blog breaks down the top-rated carpet cleaners for 2024 based on performance, features, and value. Read on for reviews of the best carpet shampooers and carpet extractors that will leave your floors looking brand new!

Top 3 Recommendations

Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro - Best Overall

If you’re looking for a powerful, do-it-all carpet cleaner that can handle even the toughest pet stains, the Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro is the best overall choice for 2024. This full-sized carpet shampooer has twice as much cleaning solution flow as leading rental units, plus the unique Max Clean Mode which provides extra cleaning power for stubborn messes. 

It comes with a handy spot treatment brush perfect for targeting spots and stains. Dual dirt lifter power brushes combined with Bissell’s HeatWave technology to maintain warm water temperatures help this machine deliver superior cleaning performance. The removable bladder tanks make refilling and emptying easy. An 8-foot hose allows you to reach spots all over your home. Best of all, it’s safe for use on all carpet types and area rugs.

Looking for the top-rated carpet cleaner to purchase? We reviewed and compared the best carpet cleaning machine to buy on the market to help you choose.

Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner - Best for Portability 

For light, routine cleanups all over your home, the Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner is the most portable and convenient option for 2024. Weighing under 20 pounds, this versatile machine easily carries up and down stairs or from room to room. 

Despite its small size, its automatic cleaning head provides powerful suction while dispensing cleaning solution and scrubbing. The dual tank system keeps clean and wastewater separate. Heated air quickly dries your carpets when you’re finished cleaning. Additional tools like a pet stain remover, a stair tool, crevice tool and upholstery tool provide added value. This Hoover carpet cleaner machine adjusts easily to clean a variety of surfaces beyond carpets like couches, chairs, vehicle interiors and more.

Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Pet Pack - Best Deep Cleaner

When your carpets demand the deepest clean possible to remove years of grime, stains and allergens, no consumer-grade carpet cleaner beats the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Pet Pack. This heavy-duty carpet extractor delivers a vibrating brush head and powerful suction (5 times more than rental units!) to pull even sticky pet hair and stuck-on dirt from carpets and upholstery.  

What sets this carpet shampoo machine apart is its rotating brush reaches deep into carpets for a thorough scrubbing. Triple action spray loosens, lifts and removes stains, dirt and odors on both forward and backward passes. The large tank capacity allows up to 3 hours of continuous cleaning time which is perfect for tackling whole homes. Included tools and attachments also effectively clean auto interiors, tile, laminate and more. It’s an investment, but for professional-quality deep cleaning without the hefty rental fees, the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 pays for itself over time.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Carpet Cleaning Machine

Type of Machine

A couple types of carpet cleaners and carpet shampoo machines dominate the market. Know the pros and cons of each to choose your best option.  

- Carpet Shampooers use rotating brushes and shampoo solutions to generate foam and safely scrub carpets clean. They are affordable, compact machines perfect for light, routine cleanings. However, shampooers don't provide the deep cleaning abilities of extractors.

- Carpet Extractors use a combination of hot water, cleaning agents and powerful suction to pull dirt and stains out from deep in the carpet fibers. The extra cost buys truck-mounted cleaning performance in a consumer package, key for deep-cleanings. However, they require more effort to operate.

Also Read: Keeping Your Canberra Carpets Clean With Powerful Machines

Size & Weight  

Carpet cleaning machines range drastically in weight from under 20 pounds to over 40 pounds. Bulkier units with larger tanks, long cords and attachments offer expanded cleaning reach. But they can be difficult to lug up stairs. Assess your space to determine if a portable lightweight design or full-sized model is a better fit.

Cleaning Performance

Pay attention to carpet cleaner ratings for stain removal abilities, suction power and water heating capabilities. All contribute to overall cleaning effectiveness to help you tackle problem areas. Machines with extra features like rotating scrub brushes or vibrating heads also offer a more thorough clean.

Solution Tanks & Cleaning Reach 

Look for large, removable clean and wastewater tanks for fewer trips back and forth to the sink. Translucent tanks that are easy to check fluid levels are also helpful. An 8 to 10 foot hose will provide sufficient reach for cleaning open floor spaces. Extra tools and attachments can expand abilities to clean upholstery, auto interiors and more.

Conclusion

Regular carpet cleaning maintenance is key for keeping carpets looking their best and lasting for years before needing replacement. Investing in a quality carpet cleaner will pay dividends for the life of your carpets. Focus on features that match your needs whether portability for small cleanups or robust cleaning power for periodic deep cleaning sessions. 

Any of our top recommendations for 2024 provide the necessary scrubbing and suction to lift dirt, remove stains and keep carpets fresh. With routine care from one of these leading carpet cleaning machines, say goodbye to dingy floors and enjoy clean, healthy carpets that tie your whole room together.