Keeping your carpets, whether at the office or home, fragrant and clean can be tricky and quite a challenge. Just imagine how many harmful contaminants they accumulate and how much foot traffic your carpets get every day. In fact, the carpet is arguably the filthiest surface inside your home.
Pet dander, pollen, dust, dirt, and tons of other contaminants are trapped inside your carpet’s tiny fibers. And, before you even know it, your elaborate carpet is already overloaded with grime and dirt.
Thankfully, there are plenty of top carpet steam cleaners that can provide deep and proficient carpet cleaning. A top-notch carpet steam cleaner can remove around 97 percent of your carpet. Even better, it reaches down to the pile or lowest layer of the carpet, cleaning it thoroughly.
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Buying a carpet steam cleaner, however, is not a walk in the park. With tons of options available, it might take you a while to select the best carpet steam cleaner for your home or office. That is why I have created a buying guide for people looking for the best carpet steam cleaners on the market today.
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What to Consider When Shopping for the Best Carpet Steam Cleaner
Before I reveal my top picks, spend some time reading the tips and hints in buying the best steam cleaner for your carpets. That way, you can easily spot which carpet steam cleaner on my list is best suited for your taste, needs, and budget. So, make sure to consider these factors as you look for the best carpet steam cleaner.
Weight and Size
From handheld to commercial, carpet steam cleaners are available in a wide range of weight, shapes, and sizes. Before buying a carpet steam cleaner, take an in-depth look at the weight and dimensions of the unit.
Once you have figured out its overall weight and size, you need to consider whether you prefer something portable and lightweight or you are eager to push around a heavy and large item.
Noise Levels
The best carpet steam cleaners are, in general, more silent than the typical vacuum cleaners. But, they, of course, produce some level of noise and other cleaners are loud. If you are worried about the cleaner’s loudness, then look for models that are quieter than the usual models.
Some of the best carpet steam cleaners include decibel levels in their specifications. If it is listed, it will give you a good grasp of how loud the device can be.
Ease of Use
Lighter carpet steam cleaner models are often easier to work with than their heftier counterparts. The larger steam carpets, however, can provide a deeper and more thorough clean. So, it is quite a puzzle that you should address as you buy a carpet steam cleaner.
Temperature and Pressure
Carpet steam cleaners that produce high pressure and temperature seem better since they kill more germs, provide a more thorough clean and more efficient. For the most part, steam cleaners with high pressure and temperature are more expensive, but if a dryer and deeper carpet clean is essential for you, then the higher cost will be worth it.
Accessories and Attachments
Carpet steam cleaners mostly come with a handful of accessories and attachments that you can use on other surface types besides carpets. If you want a carpet steam cleaner that is versatile and is applicable for a variety of spaces, surfaces, and items, you might want to consider the attachments that come with every model.
Size of the Water Tank
A steam cleaner, as with iron, will only produce steam continuously for as long as there is enough water in the tank. That means you will have to refill the water tank of the steamer more often if you are using a smaller version.
Those with larger tanks, on the other hand, tend to last longer. They will, however, take a while to heat up, meaning you will be stuck waiting just to get the whole thing started.
Cord Length
The length of the steamer’s cord is something that buyers usually do not consider. Still, it is a feature that may either make carpet cleaning troublesome or effortless on your end. If you have a big house, opt for a long yet retractable cord.
If, however, your house is small, go for a steam cleaner with a short cord. With its unnecessary light, a long cord might get entangled in smaller homes.
Best Carpet Steam Cleaners 2021 Comparison Chart
Having trouble deciding which carpet steam cleaner should you buy? Got no clue on what are the best carpet steam cleaners in 2021? Then, spend a minute or two checking out this comparison chart.
What is The Best Carpet Steam Cleaners 2021?
Searching for the best carpet steam cleaner that fits aptly to your indoor space, budget, and preferences? You might want to check out these suggestions, and see the top carpet steam cleaners for your needs.
- Best overall: McCulloch MC1385 Carpet Steam Cleaner
With its versatility and proficient features, McCulloch MC 1385 is truly the ultimate carpet steam cleaner today! - Budget pick: Pure Enrichment Steam Cleaner
Not only is it budget-friendly, but it is also a versatile, heavy-duty cleaner with tons of accessories. - Most versatile: Wagner Spraytech Steam Cleaner
A premier home cleaning tool that can accomplish all of your household cleaning projects! - Best for commercial use: Bissell Big Green Machine
With its remarkable tank capacity and unrivaled suction power, it is indeed the best for heavy-duty, commercial use. - Best for spot cleaning: McCulloch MC1275 Steam Cleaner
The MC1275 has a superior reach and 18 functional accessories that make it a perfect tool for spot cleaning. - Best for high traffic: Rug Doctor Carpet Cleaner
Known for its superior cleaning power, Rug Doctor is a premier solution for high traffic house cleaning tasks. - Best for condos and apartments: Hoover PowerDash Carpet Steam Cleaner
Compact and lightweight, this easy-to-use steam cleaner impresses users with its efficient storage and cleaning. - Best for pet owners: Bissell Proheat Carpet Cleaner
With its top-notch design, this carpet cleaner easily removes odors, stains, and pet hair from your carpet.
Best Carpet Steam Cleaners Reviews 2021
Still cannot decide which steam cleaner is best for your carpet and needs? Then, make sure to heed these words of advice from yours truly.
McCulloch MC1385 Carpet Steam Cleaner
(Best Overall)
They do not the McCulloch MC1385 as one of the top carpet steam cleaners in the world for nothing. A multi-purpose and extremely versatile carpet steam cleaner, it is a handy tool for mopping and domestic cleaning. And, it only uses water to clean carpets and a wide array of surfaces effectively.
Plus, the appliance has an adjustable steam control as well as boasts a super-long 18-foot power cord. When you are not using it, the wire can be properly stored using it cord wrap. To top it all off, it is highly portable, thanks to the tool’s integrated handle.
Key features:
- Provides over 100 minutes of nonstop steam
- Comes with more than 20 versatile accessories
- Has enough pressure to blast away grime and dirt quickly
Pros
- Perfectly long cord
- 100% natural
- Large space
- Versatile
- Heating time is just 12 minutes
Cons
- The handle gets hot gradually
- The large reservoir may seem unnecessary for simple projects
Check out this cool review of this sturdy carpet steam cleaner!
Dupray ONE Steam Cleaner
Manufactured entirely in Europe, this prolific appliance is best for its ability to clean carpets and other surfaces effectively in a chemical-free and natural way. Unlike some carpet steam cleaners, you only need typical tap water, to make it work and give you a clean and sparkling house.
With over a meter in length, the machine’s cord gives you the ability to reach and clean the farthest corners of your home. Alternatively, you may use its 5-meter long wire that can be neatly wrapped with a cord wrap while the machine is not in use.
Key features:
- More than 40 minutes of cleaning time
- Powerful steam with adjustable pressure
- 3 years warranty
- Made in Europe
Pros
- Steam control can be customized
- Uses regular tap water to work
- High pressurized and low moisture steam
- Auto shut off system
Cons
- Some users might not like its plastic materials
This video will teach you how to use this carpet steam cleaner!
Bissell Powerbrush Carpet Steamer
With unique features, it is easy to why the Bissell Powerbrush is billed as one of the finest carpet steam cleaners on the market today. This upright carpet cleaner has a power brush dirt lifter equipped with 5 rows for cleaning.It is a highly powerful and unique feature that only a few carpet steam cleaners can provide.
To make things even better, this carpet cleaner has a rather big 2-in1 tank water system that makes filling as well as emptying the water so easy. On top of it all, the brush’s bristles are stiff and incredibly sturdy, meaning it can effectively clean carpets and other surfaces.
Key features:
- Huge tank capacity
- Has powerbrush dirtlifter with 5 rows to lift stains and dirt out of you carpet
- 2-in-1 tank system
- Package also includes a deep cleaning formula (8 oz.)
Pros
- Extremely effective at lifting and scrubbing the stubborn stains
- Large tank
- Unique and powerful features
Cons
- Requires the use of chemicals
- Not as effective as other top carpet steam cleaners when it comes to pet hair
Take a look at this detailed video review of this product.
Pure Enrichment Steam Cleaner
(Best Budget)
You do not have to spend a ton of money to get some regular heavy-duty cleaning for your office or home. With Pure Enrichment, you get an inexpensive, multi-purpose steam cleaner that can keep up with the higher-end brands and models.
Not only is it ideal for your carpet, but you can also use on your windows, upholstery, walls, floors, and even outdoors. Moreover, it is chemical-free, compact, and features a cool collection of accessories, including a steam jet nozzle and a triangle brush.
What’s more, the package includes a mop head, 5 utility nylon brushes and 2 microfibre mop pads. And, it also comes with a funnel, measuring cup, and a brass utility brush.
Key features:
- Super long power cord
- Inexpensive
- All-natural cleaning
- Multi-purpose with plenty of accessories
Pros
- Convenient storage
- Amazing attachments
- Great for outdoor use
- Flexible
Cons
- Carpets may get soaked
- It has a small cleaning path
Check out this informative video review of this multi-purpose cleaner.
Wagner Spraytech Steam Cleaner
(Most Versatile)
Wagner is a great and sensible choice if you are planning to use your carpet steam cleaner to clean different floor types throughout your home. Moreover, the steam cleaner is chemical-free, meaning it will not laminate or mar wood and works reasonably well on tiles and carpets.
And, when you heat it to over 280 degrees Fahrenheit, the machine loosens grime, grease, stains, and dirt on your carpet or any other surface.
The cleaner also has a 0.3-gallon tank that holds reasonably well against some of its top competitions. The cleaner can clean continuously for 45 minutes.
Key features:
- Chemical-free
- Can clean nonstop for 40 minutes
- Can be used for other types of surface, like vinyl and tile
Pros
- It is compact
- Steam is hot enough to kill close to 100 percent of germs like salmonella
- Versatile enough to clean all types of surfaces and floors
Cons
- It has the potential to overheat
- It is best used for spot cleaning
Here is a detailed video review of this amazing product.
Bissell Big Green Machine
(Best For Commercial Use)
With Bissell Big Green, there is literally no need to employ the services of a professional home cleaning team. Trust me, it has the power and key features of a bona fide professional-grade steam cleaner.
For instance, the machine has a considerable power brush that deeply drives embedded stain and dirt out of the carpet you are cleaning. Also, the machine has a 10.5-inch cleaning path and is wonderfully designed with durable anti-tip technology.
And, it has two large tanks that separate dirty and clean water to make carpet cleaning more effective.
Although this machine is pretty big, it is handy, thanks to its ergonomic design. Even better, stubborn stains are no match for this tool since it cleans going backward and forward.
Key features:
- Huge tank capacity
- Heavy-duty suction power
- Fast and easy cleaning
Pros
- Handy accessories
- Two tanks
- Wide path for cleaning
Cons
- Heavy
- Requires some maintenance
Check out this video to learn more about this product.
McCulloch MC1275 Steam Cleaner
(Best For Spot Cleaning)
If you are looking for a remarkable steam machine that cleans targeted dirt and stains effectively, opt for the McCulloch MC1275. With its effective spot cleaning proficiency and power, you will no doubt love this top carpet steam cleaner. And, it is an excellent and versatile multi-purpose home cleaner as well.
There are also no chemicals needed to use this prolific carpet steam cleaner. Its steam is pressurized and powerful enough to remove stains, mold, grease and grime. It takes just 8 minutes to heat up, and it will give you more than 40 minutes of continuous steam.
Another thing I like about it is the machine has its trigger lock.
Key features:
- Natural, chemical-free cleaning
- Large water tank
- Reach is superior
- 18 handy and versatile accessories
Pros
- Heating time is less than 8 minutes
- Has a steam lock, making it convenient
- Long power cord
- Convenient to store its accessories
- Wide scrub pads
Cons
- Brass bristles of the machine may damage other delicate surfaces
Take a look at this informative video review of this carpet steam cleaner.
Rug Doctor Carpet Cleaner
(Best For High Traffic)
I love it, and this machine is by far a favorite among those who love deep and thorough carpet cleaning. After all, it is one of the closest things that professional home and carpet steam cleaners use. And, it is ideal for people who clean their indoor space often and have a lot of area to cover.
Like a pro cleaning tool, this one has a big suction that makes for fast dry times and deep stain removal. Even better, it has dual bushes that make quick work of stain and dirt removal. The hose is nearly 13 feet long, meaning you can still leave it in the corner of your room and touch another.
Key features:
- Can clean other items like furniture, car interiors, and cushions
- Pro strength cleaning power at a DIY price range
- Pretty useful in removing deep stains
Pros
- User-friendly
- Can make quick work of stain and dirt removal
- Long hose.
- Spacious tank
Cons
- Louder than most best carpet steam cleaners
- Heavy for some people
Check out this video highlighting the functions of Rug Doctor.
Hoover PowerDash Carpet Steam Cleaner
(Best For Condos and Apartments)
Experts have rated the Hoover PowerDash as one of the best and most powerful carpet steam cleaners on the market today. And with a cleaning power twice as strong as others, it is no wonder experts love it. As far as I’m concerned, this machine is best suited for small spaces and high traffic areas.
This steam cleaner has a sturdy brush roll that makes carpet cleaning effortless, convenient, and painless. In addition, the cleaner has superior heat force, meaning the carpet will dry faster. And, unlike other heavy steam cleaners, this tool is lightweight and easy to store.
Key features:
- Compact and lightweight
- Powerful and efficient carpet cleaning
- Incredible heat force power
- It has a dual tank system
Pros
- Delivers quicker drying
- Tackles stains easily, thanks to its exceptional brush rollers
- Its dual tank system splits dirty and clean water
Cons
- Can be a bit inexpensive if it is poorly executed
- Residues left behind may stain shoes and clothes
Check out this cool review of this product.
Bissell Proheat Carpet Cleaner
(Best For Pet Owners)
If you are looking for a steam cleaner that is lightweight and easy to steer, look no further than the Bissell Proheat Carpet Cleaner. The carpet steam cleaner covers around 32 square feet in one tank.
While the hose is around 8 feet long, it is still handy for most users. Keep in mind that it is light, so it is easy to get around to the spots that you need to clean.
I also love the heating technology of this carpet steam cleaner since it keeps your clean water at an ideal temperature that practically makes steaming so effective.
To top it all off, it has loads of features and accessories to complete any cleaning job at home.
Key features:
- Lightweight
- Superior cleaning features like the “Express Clean Mode”
- Easy to maneuver
Pros
- Has an “Express Clean Mode,” which dries your carpet quickly
- Has a ton of accessories
- Ergonomic design
Cons
- It is a bit noisy than other carpet steam cleaners
Take a look at this video review of this cool product.
Hoover SteamVac Carpet Cleaner
Hoover SteamVac is a godsend for homeowners looking for the best carpet steam cleaner. And, it can be highly beneficial for you too in a number of ways, For one, it has an adjustable rolling brush with 3 various speeds.
One is perfect for picking up spills. There is also a low option for a gentle clean, and a high for regular cleaning. Furthermore, the scrub the cleaner spins 360 degrees and boasts rotating brushes to give your carpet a complete scrub at every angle.
The heated cleaning system of this machine effectively works to dry your carpet quickly. Not to mention, it has a clean surge feature designed for those heavy traffic areas and stubborn stains.
Key features:
- Huge water capacity
- Clean surge feature
- Dual cleaning
Pros
- Has a dual tank system with separate storage for dirty and clean water
- Effective and powerful clean
- Counter rotating brushes
Cons
- Not ideal for bigger offices or houses
Here is a cool video that will show you how to use this steam cleaner.
Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner
Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner has it all. It is versatile, powerful, and surprisingly affordable. The machine has brushes with dual-cross action features that rotate and oscillate to drive the deeply embedded dirt out of the carpet.
As far as power goes, this carpet steam cleaner has stronger suction and dries your carpet faster than its competitors. I also love the machine’s Super Boos feature, which adds more power on those spots that are soiled heavily.
Another thing I like about it is its usability. The tool has added accessories, including an upholstery tool and a removable tool caddy.
Key features:
- Exceptional tank capacity
- It has 75% more suction compared to other steam carpet cleaning machines
- Has “Super Boost” feature
- Includes an upholstery tool and a tool caddy
Pros
- Versatile, portable and handy
- Has exceptional dual brushes to provide deep carpet cleaning
- Inexpensive
Cons
- It cannot be dismantled easily for maintenance
Check out this amazing video review of this carpet steam cleaner.
Hoover Portable Carpet Steam Cleaner
Hoover Portable is, without a doubt, one of the top carpet steam cleaners today, when it comes to stain removal. With a set of powerful features, the cleaner can quickly remove stains with ease.
The machine also has a dual tank technology, designed to make refills faster and more convenient. Of course, the machine is relatively easy to use.
As the name suggests, the machine is portable and lightweight. I even use it when cleaning the interiors of my car. Also, the portable machine comes with a variety of accessories to make carpet cleaning more efficient and painless.
All in all, it is a terrific choice if you are looking for a reliable and dependable portable steam cleaner for your carpet.
Key features:
- Uses dual tank technology
- Deep and convenient clean
- Uses self-cleaning technology
- Lightweight and portable
- Long reach
Pros
- Multi-purpose tools
- Refilling water is a breeze
- Portable and handy
Cons
- Requires a multitude of passes to effectively clean stains
Check out this in-depth video review of this handy and portable steam cleaner.
Steamfast Canister Steam Cleaner
It is a heavy-duty and sturdy appliance for people who do not take steam cleaning very lightly. The Steamfast Canister Steam Cleaner heats water to over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, it cleans and sanitizes your carpet as well as other types of surfaces without any chemicals.
It has an aluminum boiler with a 48-ounce capacity. The boiler of the machine can heat water in less than 12 minutes and produce continuous steam for over 80 minutes.
Also, the machine is reasonably portable and accessible, thanks to its 17-foot power cord and 10-foot hose. With its onboard storage of superior steam power, it is built to kill germs and remove stains in the blink of an eye.
Key features:
- Chemical-free cleaning
- Adjustable steam control
- Large aluminum boiler
- Long power cord
Pros
- Completely natural and safe to use for those with pets
- Has an onboard storage
- Steam control is adjustable and customizable
Cons
- Steam power is not as remarkable as some of the best carpet steam cleaners
See an amazing video review of this product.
Bissell Turboclean Carpet Cleaner
The Turboclean is another terrific model from the beloved Bissell brand. With a plethora of cool features to offer, this model is going to work quite well for those who are looking for an exceptional steam cleaner.
The cleaner has a rotating 4-row power brush dirt lifter. Combined with its powerful suction, the brush certainly removes stubborn stains and dirt easily.
At 11 pounds, the carpet cleaner is also lightweight, meaning it is portable and handy. You will not have problems maneuvering and moving it around. And, you can move it into a variety of positions where you can clean pet messes and debris.
Key features:
- Convenient and has easy storage
- Lightweight and portable
- Great tank capacity
Pros
- The handle is collapsible for easy storage
- Remarkable stain removable
- Easy to maneuver
Cons
- It does not hold a great deal of water
Check out this detailed video review of this carpet cleaner.
Common Carpet Steam Cleaner Types
Carpet steam cleaners come in a few varieties. Depending on the floor covering, materials, size, and uses, there are specific designs or models of steam cleaners that suit perfectly to your house’s carpets.
Here is a list of the types of carpet steam cleaners that you should put into consideration.
- Portable cleaners: You simply cannot use bulky steam cleaners, especially in the smaller points and corners of your house. Luckily, there are portable cleaners that can help you in these situations.
- Upright steam cleaners: These steam cleaners are effortless and handy to use, allowing you to clean carpets fairly well without consuming a great deal of time and energy.
- Professional steam cleaners: Professionals use these cleaners for efficient and heavy-duty cleaning. They are incredibly sturdy and have all the tools to remove all kinds of dirt and stains.
- Cylinder steam cleaners: They can be used to clean different areas of your home and do not have to use detergents and other harmful chemicals
FAQs
Our Top Pick
There is no carpet steam cleaner quite like our top pick: McCulloch MC 1385. Versatile and multi-purpose, this machine provides more than a hundred minutes of continuous steam. Ideal for pet owners, the machine does not use any harmful chemicals, making steam cleaning safer and more environmentally friendly.
Of course, it also has enough power to blast and remove all the stains in your carpet. Moreover, it is easy to maneuver, compared to other heavy-duty carpet steam cleaners. All in all, it has everything you need for a durable, functional, and handy carpet steam cleaner.
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