By Owen PalmerUpdated November 2026
Choosing a carpet cleaner and shampooer comes down to how much you need to clean, what kind of soil you’re fighting, and how much hands-on work you want to do. This guide compares three upright machines from well-known brands, focusing on pet hair and odor handling, automatic cleaning, spot-cleaning versatility and how easy each unit is to fill, empty and maintain. The picks are based on product listings, brand reputation and common owner feedback patterns, not on our own testing.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallHoover SmartWash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner MachineView on Amazon - 2
Best for pet householdsHoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner MachineView on Amazon - 3
Best for stain-focused cleaningShark EX150 CarpetXpert Upright Carpet CleanerView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Hoover SmartWash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine | General whole-home cleaning | Automatic deep cleaning |
| Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner Machine | Homes with pets | Spot cleaner conversion |
| Shark EX150 CarpetXpert Upright Carpet Cleaner | Stains and pet messes | Built-in spot and stain tool |
Hoover SmartWash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine
Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer Machine, Pair with a Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution for a Bright, Refreshed Home Hoover SmartWash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine
Best for: General whole-home cleaning
This is a practical choice for households that want a straightforward upright shampooer for carpet and area rugs across multiple rooms, without much setup between sessions.
Pros
- Automatic cleaning mode reduces the amount of manual scrubbing needed.
- Designed to work with Hoover’s matching carpet cleaner solution.
Cons
- Owners often note that heavy pet soiling may need a second pass.
Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner Machine
Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Automatic Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer, Converts to Spot Cleaner, Pair with Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution
Best for: Homes with pets
Suited to pet owners who want an upright that can also handle upholstery and stairs, since it converts to a spot cleaner for quick cleanups between deep sessions.
Pros
- Spot-cleaner conversion makes it useful beyond the main carpet area.
- The XL tank size means fewer refills during larger jobs.
Cons
- Larger footprint than compact spot cleaners, so storage takes more room.
Shark EX150 CarpetXpert Upright Carpet Cleaner
Shark EX150 CarpetXpert, Upright Carpet, Area Rug & Upholstery Cleaner for Pets, Built-in Spot & Stain Eliminator, Deep Cleaning & Dirt & Grime Removal, Carpet Shampooer, Magenta (Renewed)
Best for: Stains and pet messes
A good fit for people who deal with frequent spills and accidents and want a built-in tool aimed at stain removal rather than only whole-floor shampooing.
Pros
- Built-in spot and stain eliminator handles targeted messes.
- Pet-focused features target dirt and grime removal in high-traffic areas.
Cons
- The listing is for a renewed unit, so condition and warranty terms should be checked before buying.
Buying Guide
Tank capacity and refill frequency
Larger clean and dirty tanks mean fewer interruptions on a full room or multi-room session. Smaller tanks suit small apartments or quick jobs.
Pet hair and odor handling
Look for tools and solutions that address pet dander and urine odor, not just surface dirt. Pre-treatment for stains makes a noticeable difference on high-traffic carpet.
Spot-cleaning versatility
A machine that converts to a handheld or includes a spot tool lets you deal with messes right away instead of waiting for a full cleaning session.
Ease of maintenance
Check how easy the tanks are to empty and rinse, and whether the brush roll is accessible for hair removal. Frequent cleaning of the machine itself keeps performance steady.
Good picks for this: Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner Machine and Shark EX150 CarpetXpert Upright Carpet Cleaner
FAQ
Can a carpet cleaner and shampooer remove pet urine?
Many units can help with pet urine when used with an enzyme-based solution, but fresh accidents respond better to blotting first. Consult a professional cleaner for heavily saturated or older stains.
How often should I deep clean carpet with one of these machines?
Most manufacturers suggest cleaning high-traffic areas every few months and the rest of the home at least twice a year. Households with pets may need more frequent sessions.
Do I need to use the brand’s own cleaning solution?
Manufacturers generally specify compatible solutions, and using the recommended product helps avoid residue and foaming problems. Check your model’s manual before switching.
Conclusion
For a general whole-home clean, the Hoover SmartWash+ is a straightforward starting point. Pet owners who also want spot cleaning should look at the Hoover SmartWash Pet XL, while the Shark EX150 CarpetXpert suits households that deal with frequent stains and spills.
Sources
- Guidance on indoor air quality, dust and household cleaning practices (epa.gov)
- Recommendations on cleaning and disinfecting in the home (cdc.gov)
- Industry guidance on carpet care, maintenance and cleaning methods
Related reading
- Homemade Carpet Cleaner for Carpet Shampooer: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Zep Premium Carpet Cleaner: A Step-by-Step Guide for Better Results
- Woolite Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner Review: Is It Worth It?
About Owen Palmer
Owen Palmer is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our non-vacuum cleaning gear guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
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