A carpet cleaner and washer sprays water or cleaning solution onto textile surfaces, then vacuums up the loosened dirt and liquid. Depending on the model, it can be used on carpets, upholstered furniture, stairs and car seats. For households with children, pets or textiles that see frequent use, a carpet cleaner like this can be more practical than spot-cleaning with a cloth.
However, impressive performance figures and a long list of features don’t automatically mean you’re making the right choice. Check for these three common pitfalls before you buy:
Figures such as 12 kPa, 13 kPa or 15 kPa describe the vacuum level, or suction pressure. A higher figure can help with picking up dirty water, but it isn’t a guarantee of quality on its own. What matters is how suction power works together with the spray rate, brush attachment and seal between the nozzle and the surface.
For carpet and upholstery cleaning, it’s also worth considering how easy the machine is to use. Can you apply the water in a controlled way? Can you guide the nozzle slowly over the fabric? The less moisture left in the material, the easier it is to dry afterwards. If you’re cleaning delicate textiles, try the machine on an inconspicuous area first.
A dual-tank system keeps clean water separate from the dirty water the machine picks up. This makes the machine more hygienic to use and prevents dirty water from being used again. A compact tank is enough for small stains, while larger tanks are useful if you plan to clean several sofa cushions, stair treads or car seats.
Check the actual tank capacities. A model with a 1,400 ml clean-water tank and a 1,200 ml dirty-water tank is designed for spot cleaning. Machines with tanks of around 1.7 litres and 1.4 litres need to be refilled or emptied less often.
A corded upholstery cleaner offers a constant power supply, but you’ll need a plug socket nearby. A cordless model makes it easier to clean your car or stairs, but it needs charging beforehand and has a limited run time. Check the cable length, hose length and weight before you buy.
A wet and dry vacuum cleaner for hard floors isn’t automatically suitable for carpets. For textile surfaces, a spray function, a narrow upholstery nozzle and controlled dirty-water pickup are important. Only use a steam cleaner on textiles if the care instructions say the material can withstand heat and moisture. A suitable brush can help with pet hair, but the label “pet hair and stain remover” doesn’t tell you which attachment is included.
Why this product suits this profile: This compact corded machine is designed for occasional stains on sofas, carpets, stairs and car seats. It offers 650 W of power and 12 kPa suction, with a 1.4-litre clean-water tank and a 1.2-litre dirty-water tank.
The separate tanks make it easy to tell clean water from dirty water. The 1.1 m hose and 3 m cable give you a clear idea of the machine’s reach.
Compact design, 12 kPa suction and suitable for use on several water-resistant textile surfaces.
Why this product suits this profile: This portable carpet cleaner has a 1.9-litre clean-water tank, a 1.4-litre dirty-water tank and a 400 W motor. It’s designed for carpets and upholstery, and can be used with a range of attachments.
The tank capacities are clearly stated, helping to reduce the need for frequent refills when cleaning several stains. After use, rinse the tank, nozzle and accessories separately.
Large tank capacities, portable design and intended for use on a range of fabric surfaces.
Why this product suits this profile: This machine offers cold-water, hot-water and steam modes, 13 kPa suction, and 1.7-litre and 1.4-litre tanks. The 5-in-1 brush set is designed for use on a range of textile surfaces.
The three modes make it clear which type of cleaning you’re selecting. Even so, use steam and high temperatures only on materials approved for them.
High rated power of 1,700 W, several cleaning modes and a large tank capacity.
Why this product suits this profile: This cordless model is designed for carpets, upholstery, stairs and car seats. It offers 15 kPa suction, a 1.6-litre clean-water tank, a 0.8-litre dirty-water tank and a stated run time of up to 55 minutes.
The battery life and tank capacities are clearly stated. Before cleaning larger areas, plan ahead for the charge level and the amount of water you’ll need.
Cordless operation, 15 kPa suction and a hose-cleaning attachment to help maintain the machine after use.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and comply fully with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Read the care instructions for your carpet or upholstery before using the machine for the first time. Don’t use a carpet cleaner and washer or steam on non-water-resistant fabrics, delicate coatings or materials with temperature restrictions. Follow these steps:
It depends on the material, the amount of water used, the room temperature and air circulation. Air the room and apply only as much liquid as the cleaner can pick back up. Wait until the carpet is completely dry before using it again.
A portable model can be a worthwhile buy for households with children, pets or frequent spills. Look for a narrow nozzle, a hose that’s long enough and a weight that’s easy to manage in your car or on the stairs.
As well as electricity, you’ll need to budget for water, suitable cleaning solution and, where necessary, replacement filters or brushes. Cordless models also need time to charge. Tank capacity, cleaning-solution dosage and the effort involved in maintenance are therefore more important to running costs than wattage alone.