The Best Carpet Steam Cleaner

Over time, carpets accumulate dirt, stains, and bacteria from pets, spills, and daily use. Regular vacuuming is often not enough to remove deep-seated grime. A carpet steam cleaner is an effective solution for thorough carpet cleaning, using hot water and suction to extract embedded dirt and rejuvenate carpets.

However, with numerous brands and models available, choosing the right carpet steam cleaner can be overwhelming. Having a curated list of the top options can simplify the decision-making process and help you find the perfect cleaner for your needs and home.

This guide aims to provide a comprehensive review of the best carpet steam cleaners on the market, considering factors such as cleaning performance, ease of use, and value for money. By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to select the ideal carpet steam cleaner that will restore the fresh and clean appearance of your carpetsv

15 Best Carpet Steam Cleaners – Consumer Reports  

Take a look at the reviews of 15 carpet steam cleaners that are efficient in cleaning stains from carpets and a number of other surfaces:

1. McCulloch MC1375 Canister Steam System

The McCulloch MC1375 is a versatile steam cleaner ideal for cleaning and mopping various surfaces. It heats water up to 200°F in just 10 minutes, effectively removing tough grime and grease. With its 48-ounce water tank, it provides up to 90 minutes of continuous steam, and the variable steam control allows users to adjust the flow.

The cleaner comes with 20 accessories, including utility brushes, a floor mop, scrub pads, a storage bag, an accessory net, a scraper, and nozzles, making it easy to sanitize and restore surfaces like carpets, floors, patios, and even BBQ grills.

Environmentally safe and chemical-free, this steam cleaner is an excellent choice for pet owners. It operates quietly, is lightweight, and features an 18-foot power cord for easy maneuverability.

Pros:

• Cleans and disinfects simultaneously
• 20 attachments for versatile cleaning
• Heats up quickly in 10 minutes

Cons:

• Could use more pressure for cleaning hard surfaces

2. BISSELL Powerbrush Carpet Steamer and Carpet Cleaner (16237)

This upright carpet cleaner boasts outstanding cleaning with its PowerBrush. The brush’s soft, curved bristles enable deep cleaning and effectively scoop up dirt and debris. Its DirtLifter feature utilizes 5 cleaning rows to lift stubborn dirt and stains from carpets.

The 2-in-1 water tank system eliminates the need for a separate solution tank, as a bladder inside separates the clean and dirty water. This design prevents mixing and ensures efficient cleaning.

The stain tool allows for easy cleaning of difficult areas, stairs, and upholstery. The spraying, scrubbing, and suction actions deliver exceptional cleaning performance.

Pros:

• Stiff bristles tackle tough stains
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Provides deep carpet cleaning

Cons:

• No automatically adjustable head

3. Sienna Eco Pro SSC-0412 Multi-Purpose Steam Cleaner

This multipurpose 1500-watt steam cleaner provides up to 4 BAR of steam pressure, allowing you to sanitize and deodorize your home without harsh chemicals. With a single fill, it can operate for up to 40 minutes and is ready to use within minutes. The 23 included attachments enable cleaning of carpets, floors, walls, windows, counters, and bathrooms.

Features include a steam ready light indicator, refill indicator light, and an adjustable steam pressure control knob to regulate output. Weighing 14 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver and requires no tools for assembly – just the touch of a button to start.

Pros:

• 40 minutes of continuous cleaning
• Adjustable steam output
• Chemical-free deep cleaning

Cons:

• Lacks powerful steam output

4. Hoover SteamVac Plus Carpet Cleaner 

This lightweight, medium-duty carpet cleaner features the SpinScrub 360 brush system with removable counter-rotating brushes that gently scrub surfaces like tiles, wood, vinyl, and grout from all angles. Powered by a 12-amp motor, it tackles stubborn stains with three speed settings: high, low, and off.

The dual tank system keeps clean and dirty water separate, while the clean surge feature uses cleaning solution to maintain high-traffic areas and tackle tough stains. For hard floors, you can pause the scrubbing brushes. Its suction mechanism aids in faster carpet drying.

Pros:

• Lightweight and maneuverable
• Suction power aids carpet drying
• Clean surge system tackles odors in fabrics

Cons:

• May require mid-cleaning water tank emptying

5. Hoover F5914900 SteamVac Carpet Cleaner

It is a lightweight budget-friendly cleaner that does a pretty commendable job cleaning stains from carpets. Even though it is smaller in size, it’s powerful and has a decent amount of suction.

It is not just easy to carry around, but its attachment makes it easier to access hard to reach corners. The scrubbing brushes reach the fibers of the carpet and pull out all the dirt. The clean surge button releases detergent as and when required for deep cleaning.

The 5 brushes in the floor tool can be turned off when you are using it on hard floor. The heated drying feature dries the carpet quick.

Pros

• It has separate water tanks for clean and dirty water
• It is great for deep cleaning
• Requires less maintenance

Cons

• It is a noisy machine

6. Vornado VS-570 Commercial Fabric Steamer

If you are looking for a steamer that can provide you with the ultimate garment care, you will love the Vornado VS-570 Commercial Fabric Steamer.

It is gentle on delicate fabrics but it is powerful enough to use on a daily basis. It takes just 2 minutes to heat 1-gallon of water. You will get up to 4 hours of continuous steam.

It can be used on denim, wool, cotton, and linen. Its 70-inch telescopic pole provides you with a convenient place to rest the steam nozzle and hang clothes.

Pros 

• It is easy to set up and use
• It steams up within a few minutes
• You can change from high to low steaming settings while using the product

Cons

• The steam might cling to certain types of fabrics

7. Steamfast SF-275 Canister Steam Cleaner

The Steamfast SF-275 Canister Steam Cleaner is powered by a 1500-watt heating system that generates hot pressurized vapor jets, effectively removing stubborn stains, dirt, grime, and allergens like pet dander, dust mites, and bed bugs from floors, sinks, tubs, drapes, and upholstery without harsh chemicals.

This compact cleaner heats up quickly and provides 45 minutes of continuous steam with its 48-ounce tank. It comes with 17 accessories for efficient cleaning and features a steam-on-demand trigger with a continuous steam locking switch. Large wheels and front casters ensure smooth mobility across rooms.

Pros:

• Steam sanitizes and kills bacteria/mold
• Large tank minimizes refilling
• Powerful cleaning performance
• Affordable and chemical-free

Cons:

• Some components may lack durability

8. BACOENG Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner

This heavy-duty steam cleaner is versatile for cleaning carpets, floor mats, boats, motorcycles, cars, garages, grills, BBQs, and patio furniture. It not only removes stains but also eliminates unpleasant odors from upholstery. With a 6-minute heat-up time and a steam control switch for precise steam output, it offers up to 45 minutes of cleaning time with its 48-ounce water tank.

The green light indicates steam readiness, while the red light signals the need for refilling. It comes with 19 accessories and a child safety lock on the steam handle. The changeable heads increase its range of applications, making it an efficient cleaner for dirt, grime, and grease.

Pros:

• Versatile with changeable heads
• Targets dirt, grime, and grease efficiently
• Easy to operate

Cons:

• Lacks powerful steam output for a heavy-duty cleaner

9. Vaporetto Go Multi-Surface Steam Cleaner

This highly efficient yet easy-to-use steam cleaner blasts away stains, bacteria, and germs with its compact cylindrical design that allows for dragging or wearing it like a backpack. Suitable for floors, carpets, sofas, mattresses, mirrors, and taps, it produces 90 gallons of steam per minute and heats up in just 5 minutes.

With 8 attachments to enhance its performance, this versatile steam cleaner effectively sanitizes most surfaces in your home.

Pros:

• Highly compact and portable
• Quick assembly and use
• Cleans and sanitizes various surfaces

Cons:

• Some attachments may be redundant

10. BISSELL Powerbrush Carpet Steamer and Carpet Cleaner, 16237 (Renewed)

The BISSELL PowerBrush Carpet Steamer and Carpet Cleaner is designed for thorough cleaning of carpets and upholstery. It features a curved 5-row DirtLifter PowerBrush that effectively lifts tough stains, complemented by spraying and scrubbing functions. The included stain tool allows you to reach hard-to-clean areas, stairs, and upholstery.

With an ergonomic handle for ease of use and a powerful 6 amp motor for consistent performance, this cleaner also comes with BISSELL’s Deep Cleaning Formula. Its large 2-in-1 water tank minimizes the need for frequent refilling.

Pros:

• Efficient DirtLifter PowerBrush for stubborn stains
• Consistent performance on floors and upholstery
• Easy to operate

Cons:

• No separate tanks for clean and dirty water

11. BISSELL PowerBrush Full Sized Carpet Steamer and Carpet Shampooer

The BISSELL deep cleaner features a powerful 5-row rotating DirtLifter PowerBrush that penetrates deep into carpets to loosen dirt and stains. Powered by a 2 amp motor, this upright cleaner is versatile for bare floors, stairs, carpets, and upholstery cleaning. It includes specialized tools like a 3-inch tough stain tool, bare floor tool, and 2-in-1 spraying crevice tool for hard-to-reach areas.

The 3/4 gallon two-in-one water tank system and included deep cleaning formula from the manufacturer enhance its cleaning performance.

Pros:

• DirtLifter PowerBrush tackles tough stains
• Sprays, scrubs, and suctions for thorough carpet cleaning
• Quiet operation

Cons:

• Lack of steam generation

12. Hoover SteamVac Plus Carpet Cleaner with Clean Surge – F5914901NC (Renewed)

The Hoover SteamVac Plus Carpet Cleaner offers versatile cleaning with 3 speed controls – high for normal cleaning, low for gentle cleaning, and off for spill pickup. Paired with the powerful spin scrub 360 brushes that scrub from all angles, it delivers deep, all-around carpet cleaning.

The clean surge control function allows fingertip application of extra detergent for tackling stains and high-traffic areas. After scrubbing, it applies heat to speed up drying time.

Pros:

• Easy to use and maneuver
• Dries carpets after cleaning
• Tackles odors in upholstery

Cons:

• Requires frequent water tank refilling

13. Oreck Steam-It Steam Mop, Steam100LRH

This multi-tasking steam mop is ideal for chemical-free cleaning and sanitizing floors, grout, and tiles. It produces 40 minutes of high-temperature steam that melts away dirt and kills germs. The adjustable steam settings allow customization for different floor types, making it pet-friendly too.

The unit features a large water tank for uninterrupted cleaning, a cleaning clip for using household towels, and machine-washable, reusable microfiber pads, eliminating the need for expensive replacements. Fingertip controls and an 11.5-inch wide cleaning path enhance convenience. It can also be used upside-down for cleaning fans, cabinets, and light fixtures.

Pros:

• Chemical-free deep cleaning
• Upside-down cleaning capability
• Wide cleaning path
• Reusable microfiber pads

Cons:

• Durability concerns

14. Eureka Enviro Hard-Surface Floor Steamer, 313A

This electric stick mop is designed for cleaning and sanitizing floors and vertical surfaces like mirrors and windows using the attachments. It features a magic clop base that produces steam, eliminating the need for soap or detergents. The height-adjustable handle and 12-1/2 inch cleaning head allow easy maneuvering and reach into corners.

The machine quickly turns water into steam, efficiently removing dirt and grime. The yellow and green lights indicate when it’s heating up and ready for use. Suitable for marble, hardwood, laminate, granite, and wood floors, it replaces heavy wet mops and vacuums.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Adjustable handle for hard-to-reach spots
• No chemicals required

Cons:

• No steam control
• Water tank refilling can be challenging

15. Reliable Brio Pro 1000CC Commercial Steam Cleaner

This powerful steam cleaner boasts a 6 bar steam pressure and 257-degree dry vapor steam that efficiently kills germs, molds, bacteria, viruses, dust mites, and bed bugs. It comes with a 17-piece accessory set to tackle dirt, grime, and soap scum on various surfaces. You can choose from low, medium, and high-pressure settings, along with a hot water rinse option for easier debris removal.

The electric control panel displays the current steam setting, and a low water light indicator alerts you when the tank needs refilling. An optional trolley enhances mobility and storage.

Pros:

• High steam pressure tackles stubborn stains
• Versatile for multiple surfaces
• Large tank capacity for uninterrupted cleaning

Cons:

• Steamer reliability issues
• Loses pressure on higher settings

Types Of Steam Cleaners

Steam cleaners come in four main types:

• Handheld Steam Cleaners: Compact and portable, ideal for spot cleaning small stains on carpets and hard-to-reach areas.
• Steam Mops: Designed for cleaning floors, featuring an upright stick-like design with a water tank in the handle. They use steam to sanitize and clean floors without chemicals.
• Cylinder Steam Cleaners: Larger and bulkier than handhelds, but more powerful for deep cleaning and sanitizing carpets. They have a large water tank, reducing the need for frequent refilling.
• Vapor Steam Cleaners: Similar to cylinder steam cleaners, but leave surfaces dry after cleaning, with no residual moisture or dampness.

Each type serves a specific purpose, from spot cleaning to deep carpet sanitization and floor cleaning, allowing you to choose the most suitable option for your needs.

Steam Cleaner Buying Guide – What Features To Look For?

When buying a steam cleaner, consider these key features:

• Size and Weight: Steam cleaners range from portable handheld models to larger wheeled units. Evaluate your cleaning needs and storage space to pick the right size and weight.
• Attachments: Look for models that come with useful accessories like brushes, nozzles, scraper tools, and pads for different surfaces.
• Water Tank Capacity: Larger tanks mean less frequent refilling during use. Handhelds have smaller tanks while canister/vapor models have bigger tanks.
• Steam Pressure and Temperature: Higher pressure and temperature generate drier, more powerful steam for effective cleaning. Check specifications.
• Ease of Use: Lighter weight makes maneuverability easier, but larger models provide deeper cleaning power.
• Noise Level: Steam cleaners can be noisier than vacuums. Check reviews if noise is a concern.

By considering these factors, you can select a steam cleaner well-suited to your cleaning requirements and preferences.

Final Words

In conclusion, it is imperative to acknowledge the transformative power of a top-notch steam cleaner, which can substantially simplify and expedite a multitude of cleaning chores. Not only does it offer efficiency, but it also eliminates the need for chemical-based solutions to combat harmful germs and bacteria.

In your quest to discover the perfect steam cleaner that offers exceptional value for your hard-earned money, I wholeheartedly recommend dedicating some quality time to peruse the extensive selection of steam carpet cleaners that have been meticulously assessed and discussed above. When making your selection, it is prudent to consider established industry giants such as Hoover and Bissell, renowned for their unwavering commitment to producing high-quality cleaning solutions.

By investing in a superior steam cleaner from reputable brands like these, you are not only ensuring the longevity of your cleaning equipment but also guaranteeing the utmost satisfaction in the cleanliness and hygiene of your living space. So, take your time, make an informed decision, and embark on a cleaning journey that is not only efficient but also environmentally friendly.

Wise Reviewer