Thick carpets are wonderfully cozy, adding warmth and comfort to any room. But let’s be honest, they can be a real pain to clean! Their dense fibers and deep pile are masters at trapping dirt, dust, pet hair, and allergens, making it challenging for just any vacuum to do a thorough job. You need a machine specifically designed to dig deep and extract all that embedded grime. If you’re tired of your current vacuum just skimming the surface, you’ve landed in the right place.
Finding the best vacuum cleaner for thick carpet involves looking for robust suction, powerful brush rolls, and adjustable height settings that can handle varying pile heights without bogging down. We’ve dug into the features of some top contenders to help you navigate the options and find the perfect cleaning partner for your plush flooring. Get ready to banish hidden dirt and refresh your beautiful carpets!
Our Top Picks: The Best Vacuum Cleaners for Thick Carpet
Let’s dive into the detailed reviews of vacuums that truly stand out when it comes to tackling thick, high-pile carpets.
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum
This Bissell CleanView model truly shines when it comes to pet-friendly cleaning, making it an excellent choice for homes with furry friends and thick carpets alike. Its Swivel Steering allows for effortless navigation around furniture legs and other obstacles, ensuring no corner of your plush carpet goes untouched. What really sets it apart for dense rugs is the Triple Action Brush Roll, specifically engineered to loosen, lift, and remove even the most stubborn, embedded pet hair and dirt from deep within carpet fibers. Plus, every purchase helps save pets – a win-win!
- SWIVEL STEERING: Maximum maneuverability around furniture.
- TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL: Loosens, lifts, and removes embedded pet hair.
- MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: With Scatter-Free Technology for hard surfaces too.
- EDGE-TO-EDGE CLEANING: Tackles dirt and debris along edges and in corners.
- BAGLESS DESIGN: Easy-to-empty dirt tank.
- PET FOUNDATION SUPPORT: Every purchase supports BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Pros:
– Excellent for pet hair removal on thick carpets.
– Great maneuverability thanks to swivel steering.
– Versatile for multiple floor types.
– Easy to empty and maintain.
– Supports a good cause.
Cons:
– Can be a bit loud during operation.
– May feel heavier than some lightweight models.
User Impressions: Customers frequently praise its deep cleaning capabilities on high-pile carpets, noting how effectively it picks up pet hair that other vacuums leave behind. Many are impressed by the swivel steering, which makes vacuuming less of a chore.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a powerhouse designed for homes with diverse flooring and a serious need for deep cleaning. Its standout feature is the Lift-Away functionality, allowing you to detach the canister for portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and above-floor areas – perfect for getting into all the nooks and crannies of your carpeted home. For thick carpets, the powerful suction combined with the brushroll shutoff ensures effective cleaning without damaging delicate rugs, while the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal and HEPA filter keep dust and allergens trapped securely inside. This is a strong contender for the best vacuum cleaner for thick carpet if you also need versatile cleaning.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for portable above-floor cleaning.
- ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL + HEPA FILTER: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Instantly switch from carpet to bare floor cleaning.
- PERFECT FOR PET OWNERS: Powerfully deep-cleans dander and pet hair.
- SWIVEL STEERING: Easy maneuverability.
- EXTRA-LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: 0.87L capacity for longer cleaning.
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, 8″ Crevice Tool.
Pros:
– Extremely versatile with lift-away feature.
– Excellent for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
– Strong suction for deep carpet cleaning.
– Maneuverable with swivel steering.
– Large dust cup reduces emptying frequency.
Cons:
– Can be a bit top-heavy when using the lift-away feature.
– Some users find it slightly bulky for storage.
User Impressions: Users consistently report impressive suction power, particularly on high-pile carpets, effectively removing deeply embedded dirt and pet hair. The Lift-Away feature is a huge hit for tackling stairs and furniture, making it a highly adaptable cleaning tool.
Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner
The Eureka PowerSpeed has been upgraded with a new cyclone system, making it incredibly effective at handling everything from large debris to microscopic dust trapped deep in your thick carpets. This lightweight upright vacuum is designed for powerful pick-up, ensuring it penetrates deep into the carpet pile to extract embedded dirt, dust, and pet hair. With 5 height settings, it’s remarkably versatile, transitioning smoothly from shag rugs to hard floors without issue. The on-board accessories further enhance its utility, allowing you to clean hard-to-reach areas and refresh various surfaces.
- UPGRADED CYCLONE SYSTEM: Handles large debris, small dirt, and microscopic dust.
- POWERFUL PICK-UP: Penetrates deep into carpet to extract embedded dirt.
- LIGHTWEIGHT: Easy to carry and maneuver.
- 5 HEIGHT SETTINGS: Works well on carpets, shag rugs, and hard floors.
- MULTIPLE ACCESSORIES INCLUDED: Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool for above-floor cleaning.
- TRAPS 99.9% OF DUST, DANDER AND ALLERGENS: Improves air quality.
Pros:
– Excellent deep cleaning for all carpet types, including shag.
– Very lightweight, making it easy to use for extended periods.
– Adjustable height settings are a huge plus for varied flooring.
– Good for trapping allergens.
– Affordable price point for its features.
Cons:
– Regular maintenance (cleaning roller brush/belt) is crucial to prevent clogging.
– May not have the same premium feel as higher-end models.
User Impressions: Many users are surprised by the powerful suction given its lightweight design. They appreciate the multiple height settings for tackling different carpet densities and note its effectiveness in removing pet hair and deeply embedded dirt, calling it a great value.
Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Weighing in at just 10 pounds, this Eureka PowerSpeed model defies its lightweight status by delivering heavyweight cleaning performance. Its 960-watt motor provides consistent, strong suction that powers through multiple floor types, making it an excellent choice for homes with a mix of hardwood, tile, and, most importantly, thick, wall-to-wall carpeting. The 5-height brush roll adjustment is key for precisely cleaning various carpet piles, allowing you to maximize suction and agitation without damaging your plush floors. Plus, the extra-large dust cup means fewer interruptions for emptying.
- LIGHTWEIGHT YET POWERFUL: Just 10 pounds with strong cleaning performance.
- STRONG SUCTION ACROSS SURFACES: 960-watt motor for consistent power.
- EXTRA-LARGE DUST CUP: 2.6-liter capacity for fewer empties.
- 5-HEIGHT BRUSH ROLL ADJUSTMENT: Precision cleaning for thick carpet or bare floors.
- PET-READY ATTACHMENTS ONBOARD: Includes Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, and dusting brush.
Pros:
– Exceptional suction power for its weight.
– Height adjustment is perfect for thick carpets.
– Large dust cup is convenient for long cleaning sessions.
– Comes with useful pet attachments.
– Easy to carry upstairs and maneuver.
Cons:
– Being corded, it requires plugging and unplugging.
– Some users might prefer a bag system for dust containment.
User Impressions: Reviewers love how light and powerful this vacuum is, making it easy to navigate a whole house. The adjustable height is frequently mentioned as a critical feature for effectively cleaning everything from low-pile rugs to high-pile shag carpets, with the pet turbo brush being a bonus for pet owners.
Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
For those seeking a truly lightweight and compact solution that doesn’t skimp on power for thick carpets, the Eureka NEU10AE5 is a fantastic option. Weighing only 7.7 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to carry around the house and store in tight spaces, making it ideal for smaller homes, apartments, or dorm rooms. Despite its small stature, it boasts powerful all-floor suction, effortlessly extracting dirt and hair from both hard floors and carpets. The quick-release handle and on-board tools make it simple to switch to above-floor cleaning, adding to its versatility.
- POWERFUL ALL FLOOR SUCTION: Extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets with ease.
- QUICK RELEASE HANDLE: For above-floor cleaning with crevice tool and dusting brush.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY STORAGE: Only 7.7 pounds, compact design.
- EASY MAINTENANCE & ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY: Washable filter for no maintenance costs.
- ALL TOOLS ON BOARD: Crevice tool and dusting brush conveniently stored.
- 10.5” WIDE CLEANING PATH: Helps clean larger areas quickly.
Pros:
– Extremely lightweight and portable.
– Powerful suction for its size on both carpets and hard floors.
– Compact design makes storage easy.
– Washable filter for cost-effective maintenance.
– Tools are always on hand.
Cons:
– Lacks height adjustment for brush roll, which can be critical for very thick carpets.
– Smaller dust cup capacity than some larger models.
User Impressions: Users are consistently amazed by the suction power and effectiveness of this vacuum, especially considering its feather-light weight. It’s often recommended for smaller spaces or as a secondary vacuum, but many find it perfectly capable of handling their main carpeted areas.
Oreck Commercial XL Vacuum Cleaner, Bagged Upright Vac
If you’re looking for heavy-duty performance reminiscent of professional cleaning, the Oreck Commercial XL is a superb choice for thick carpets. Weighing a mere 9 pounds, it combines commercial-grade cleaning power with lightweight efficiency, making it surprisingly easy to maneuver despite its robust capabilities. The high-speed brush roll is the secret weapon here, aggressively agitating and lifting deeply embedded dirt and debris from plush carpet fibers. Its automatic height adjustment ensures optimal cleaning across different carpet types, and side edge brushes ensure every inch of your floor gets attention.
- COMMERCIAL CLEANING POWER: Lifts and removes deeply embedded dirt.
- LIGHTWEIGHT EFFICIENCY: Just 9 pounds for effortless cleaning.
- POWERFUL AGITATION: High-speed brush roll for deep carpet cleaning.
- EFFICIENT MAINTENANCE: Automatic height adjustment, cord guard, ergonomic handle.
- SIDE EDGE BRUSHES: For corners and edges.
- BAGGED SYSTEM: Traps dirt and allergens effectively.
Pros:
– Exceptional deep cleaning for thick carpets due to powerful agitation.
– Extremely lightweight for a commercial-grade vacuum.
– Automatic height adjustment simplifies use.
– Bagged system is great for allergy sufferers.
– Durable and built to last.
Cons:
– Bagged design means ongoing bag purchases.
– Fewer onboard accessories compared to multi-purpose residential vacuums.
User Impressions: Many users who have struggled with other vacuums on thick carpets swear by the Oreck Commercial XL. They frequently mention its ability to bring old carpets back to life, extracting an astonishing amount of dirt. Its lightweight nature is a major plus for ease of use.
BISSELL TurboClean, Upright Carpet Cleaner, Pro Max Clean &
Hold on a second – while this Bissell TurboClean is an upright carpet cleaner, it’s an absolute game-changer for anyone with thick carpets that not only need vacuuming but also a deep, wet clean. Vacuums are great for dry debris, but for ground-in dirt, stains, and refreshing the fibers of your plush carpets, a carpet cleaner is indispensable. This model outcleans competitive lightweight options, tackling tough everyday and pet messes. Its 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush, combined with powerful suction, removes what vacuums leave behind. Think of it as the ultimate complement to your vacuum for maintaining the pristine condition of your thick carpets.
- OUTCLEANS COMPETITIVE LIGHTWEIGHT CARPET CLEANERS: Tackles tough pet messes and everyday stains.
- 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH: Removes ground-in dirt and stains.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT: Simple storage and easy maneuverability.
- PRO MAX CLEAN + PROTECT: Pair with formula for StainProtect Technology.
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS: Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Pros:
– Provides a true deep wet clean for thick carpets.
– Excellent for removing stubborn stains and odors.
– Compact and easy to store.
– Effective on high-traffic areas.
– Supports a charitable cause.
Cons:
– Not a dry vacuum; requires a separate vacuum for daily dry debris.
– Requires buying cleaning solution.
User Impressions: Users are thrilled with how this machine revives dirty, matted, thick carpets, making them look and smell fresh. Pet owners especially appreciate its ability to remove pet stains and odors effectively. It’s seen as a must-have for maintaining the cleanliness of deep-pile rugs.
Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum
For those living in smaller spaces or seeking a powerful yet extremely compact solution for their thick carpets, the Bissell CleanView Compact is an ideal choice. Weighing less than 8 pounds, it’s incredibly lightweight and maneuverable, making it a breeze to carry up stairs or navigate through tight dorm rooms and apartments. Don’t let its size fool you; this vacuum delivers powerful suction capable of tackling messes on both hard floors (with Scatter-Free Technology) and, crucially, providing a good clean on carpets. Its easy-empty dirt container simplifies maintenance, ensuring a hassle-free cleaning experience.
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS: Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation.
- SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Captures messes on hard floors with less scatter.
- POWERFUL SUCTION: Convenient, powerful cleaning in one machine.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE: Weighs less than 8 pounds.
- EASY EMPTY DIRT CONTAINER: Dispose of debris with a push of a button.
Pros:
– Ultra-lightweight and easy to transport.
– Powerful suction for its compact size.
– Effective on both hard floors and carpets.
– Simple and hygienic dirt container emptying.
– Great for small spaces or as a quick-clean solution.
Cons:
– May lack some of the advanced features (like brushroll height adjustment) of larger, more specialized carpet vacuums.
– Smaller cleaning path means more passes for larger areas.
User Impressions: Customers frequently commend its surprising power and lightweight design, making it a favorite for quick clean-ups and small living spaces. It’s often highlighted for its ability to pick up pet hair and general dirt effectively on area rugs and even some thicker carpets.
Intercleaner Corded Vacuum Cleaner, 15KPa Powerful Suction
The Intercleaner Corded Vacuum Cleaner is a marvel of versatility and robust suction, making it a strong contender for the best vacuum cleaner for thick carpet for those on a budget or needing a multi-purpose tool. Its updated brushless motor provides up to 15KPa of strong suction, capable of quickly cleaning all kinds of floors and short-haired carpets. What truly makes it shine is its “12 in 1 Multifunction” design with 11 accessories, allowing it to transform from an upright stick vacuum to a handheld cleaner. The 16.4ft extra-long cord offers excellent reach, and its lightweight build ensures easy use for anyone in the household.
- 12 IN 1 MULTIFUNCTION: Equipped with 11 accessories for diverse cleaning needs.
- POWERFUL SUCTION: Up to 15KPa from a brushless motor.
- 16.4FT EXTRA LONG CORD: Broad range of use without frequent unplugging.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND PORTABLE: Only 3lb (wire not included), easy to carry.
- HANDHELD VACUUM MODE: Quickly converts for sofas, cars, and tight spaces.
- LARGE CAPACITY DUST CUP: 0.8L capacity, fewer empties.
- PRO-MAX FILTRATION SYSTEM: 3-Layer filtration with 2 extra washable HEPA filters.
- PET FRIENDLY: Quiet operation for pet hair.
- ONE BUTTON TO POUR DUST: Hygienic and easy dust cup emptying.
Pros:
– Extremely versatile with numerous attachments and modes.
– Strong suction for both hard floors and carpets.
– Very lightweight and easy to handle for all ages.
– Long cord offers great reach.
– Excellent filtration system for cleaner air.
– Affordable and low maintenance with washable filters.
Cons:
– While powerful, 15KPa might be slightly less than some heavy-duty uprights specifically designed for very dense, high-pile carpet.
– Requires manual adjustment for carpet types as there isn’t a dedicated height adjustment feature.
User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the suction power and the sheer number of attachments included, highlighting its incredible value. Many mention its effectiveness on short-to-medium pile carpets and its convenience as a handheld unit for quick clean-ups and car detailing.
Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner offers straightforward, effective cleaning for homes with both carpets and hard floors, all within a budget-friendly package. At only 8.4 lbs and featuring a 25-ft power cord, it provides easy maneuverability and a convenient reach, making it a practical choice for everyday cleaning. For thick carpets, its powerful upright design ensures a good level of agitation and suction to pick up embedded dirt. The included upholstery and crevice tools expand its cleaning capabilities to various surfaces and tight spots, while the large 1.7L dust cup minimizes interruptions.
- EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Only 8.4 lbs with a 25-ft power cord.
- VERSATILE CLEANING: Includes upholstery and crevice tools; detachable handle.
- LARGE CAPACITY DUST CUP: 1.7L for longer cleaning sessions.
- WASHABLE FILTER: For long-lasting performance and easy maintenance.
- BAGLESS DESIGN: Convenient and cost-effective.
Pros:
– Very lightweight and easy to move around.
– Long power cord provides good cleaning range.
– Large dust cup means less frequent emptying.
– Washable filter saves on replacement costs.
– Affordable and effective for basic cleaning needs.
Cons:
– May not have the specialized deep-cleaning features or extreme suction of higher-end models for very dense, high-pile carpets.
– Lacks specific brush roll height adjustment.
User Impressions: Customers appreciate its no-frills, effective performance, especially for the price. It’s often noted for being surprisingly powerful and easy to use, making it a popular choice for apartments or as a secondary vacuum. Many find it perfectly capable of handling their everyday carpet cleaning tasks.
Conclusion
Choosing the best vacuum cleaner for thick carpet ultimately comes down to balancing raw power with features that match your specific needs. From the pet-hair-devouring Bissell CleanView with its Triple Action Brush Roll to the versatile Shark Navigator Lift-Away that excels at both deep carpet cleaning and above-floor tasks, there are fantastic options available. If you’re tackling incredibly plush, high-pile rugs, a model with strong brush-roll agitation and height adjustment, like the Eureka PowerSpeed, will be your best friend. For those who also battle pet dander, look for robust filtration systems like the Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal.
Remember that while powerful suction is key, features like brush roll design, adjustable height settings, and specialized tools significantly enhance a vacuum’s ability to truly deep clean dense carpet fibers. Don’t forget that a dedicated carpet cleaner, like the BISSELL TurboClean, can be an invaluable addition for maintaining the freshness and hygiene of your thick carpets, going beyond what a dry vacuum can do.
Before making your final decision, consider your carpet type, the presence of pets, any allergy concerns, and the size of your home. Invest in a vacuum that promises to reach deep, lift debris, and leave your thick carpets looking and feeling impeccably clean, allowing you to enjoy their comfort to the fullest.
FAQs About Vacuuming Thick Carpets
Q1: Why are thick carpets so difficult to vacuum?
A1: Thick carpets have a deep pile and dense fibers that trap more dirt, dust, pet hair, and allergens than low-pile carpets. Regular vacuums often can’t generate enough suction or agitation to reach and extract this embedded debris, leaving your carpets looking clean on the surface but still dirty underneath.
Q2: What features should I look for in a vacuum cleaner for thick carpets?
A2: Key features include:
– Powerful Suction: Essential for pulling dirt from deep within the carpet.
– Strong Brush Roll (Beater Bar): Aggressively agitates carpet fibers to loosen embedded dirt.
– Adjustable Height Settings: Allows you to raise or lower the brush roll to the optimal height for different carpet piles, preventing the vacuum from getting bogged down or damaging delicate fibers.
– Good Filtration (e.g., HEPA filter): Important for trapping allergens that thick carpets can harbor.
– Large Wheels: Helps the vacuum glide more easily over plush surfaces.
Q3: Can a cordless vacuum cleaner handle thick carpets?
A3: Some high-end cordless vacuums now offer impressive power that can handle medium-pile carpets effectively. However, for truly thick or high-pile carpets, corded uprights generally offer more consistent and sustained powerful suction, which is critical for deep cleaning. Always check the suction power and brush roll design specifically for thick carpets if considering a cordless model.
Q4: Is a bagged or bagless vacuum better for thick carpets?
A4: Both types can be effective. Bagged vacuums tend to offer better filtration and allergen containment, as dust is sealed away. Bagless vacuums are more convenient and cost-effective as they don’t require bag purchases. For thick carpets, focus more on the motor power and brush roll performance rather than just the bag type, though allergen sufferers might prefer bagged.
Q5: How often should I vacuum thick carpets?
A5: For homes with thick carpets, it’s generally recommended to vacuum at least 2-3 times a week, and even more frequently in high-traffic areas or if you have pets. Thick carpets hide a lot of dirt, so consistent cleaning helps prevent debris from becoming deeply embedded and breaking down carpet fibers over time.
Q6: Will a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter help with allergens from thick carpets?
A6: Yes, absolutely. Thick carpets are known to trap a significant amount of allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. A vacuum with a HEPA filter (and a sealed system like the Shark Navigator) is crucial for trapping these microscopic particles inside the vacuum cleaner and preventing them from being released back into the air, thus improving indoor air quality.
Q7: Can I use a carpet cleaner (wet cleaner) on thick carpets?
A7: Yes, a carpet cleaner (like the BISSELL TurboClean reviewed above) is excellent for deep cleaning thick carpets that accumulate a lot of dirt, stains, and odors. It uses water and cleaning solution to penetrate deep into the fibers, extract grime, and leave them fresh. It’s an excellent complement to regular dry vacuuming, especially for homes with pets or high traffic. Just ensure your carpet type is suitable for wet cleaning and allow ample drying time.
Q8: What if my vacuum is too hard to push on my thick carpet?
A8: This often means the brush roll height setting is too low or your vacuum lacks sufficient power for the carpet’s density. If your vacuum has adjustable height settings, try raising it. If not, you might need a vacuum specifically designed with stronger motors and more aggressive brush rolls for high-pile carpets. Some vacuums also have larger wheels or power-assisted features to aid maneuverability.
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