We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Vacuum For Thick Carpets 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust Cup Capacity, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Crevice Tool, Blue, NV360

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,159
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
119438 reviews

Suction Power
The suction is powerful enough to pick up dirt on the lowest level.
Weight and Maneuverability
This vacuum is powerful, lightweight, and offers great value for money.
Noise Level
It is quieter than previous vacuums, which is a plus for apartment living.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, is a solid choice for anyone looking to clean thick carpets effectively. Its powerful suction ensures that dirt and debris, even pet hair, are pulled from deep within carpet fibers. The brush roll can be easily switched off for cleaning bare floors, making it versatile for different surfaces. The vacuum’s design allows it to adapt well to various carpet types.

One standout feature is the Lift-Away functionality, enabling users to detach the pod to reach under furniture or clean stairs and upholstery comfortably. It also boasts a generous 0.9-quart dust cup, which means you can clean larger areas without needing to stop frequently to empty it.

The vacuum’s anti-allergen complete seal technology paired with a HEPA filter is a major plus, especially for allergy sufferers. This system traps dust and allergens effectively, ensuring cleaner air during your cleaning sessions. The swivel steering makes it easier to navigate around furniture and tight spaces, enhancing maneuverability.

There are some considerations to keep in mind. Weighing in at about 15.96 pounds, it may be a bit heavy for some users, especially during extended cleaning sessions. The noise level is also on the higher side at 80 dB, which might be a concern if you're sensitive to sound. As it's a corded model, mobility can be limited compared to cordless options.

This vacuum excels in suction power and versatility, making it a reliable option for cleaning thick carpets and various surfaces. It’s particularly beneficial for pet owners and those with allergies, while the weight and noise could be potential downsides for some users.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,159
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Noise Level

Most important from
119438 reviews

Suction Power
The suction is powerful enough to pick up dirt on the lowest level.
Weight and Maneuverability
This vacuum is powerful, lightweight, and offers great value for money.
Noise Level
It is quieter than previous vacuums, which is a plus for apartment living.
#2

Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra Upright Vacuum, Corded, 290AW, De-tangling Motorbar Cleaner Head for All Floors, 3 Suction Modes, Specialized pet Tools

Rating
8.8
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Height Adjustment

Most important from
3938 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum delivers exceptionally powerful suction, making deep cleaning thick carpets highly effective, though it can be hard to push without adjusting suction settings.
Brush Roll
Its motorbar brush roll with automatic hair detangling impressively prevents hair wrap, saving time and effort especially for pet owners dealing with shedding.
Height Adjustment
The vacuum does not have a height adjustment but its multiple suction modes adequately handle various carpet thicknesses without difficulty.
Weight and Maneuverability
The vacuum maneuvers smoothly around furniture thanks to Dyson’s ball technology, striking a good balance between stability and steering precision.
Filtration System
The whole-machine washable filtration effectively traps allergens and dust, helping maintain cleaner indoor air in homes with pets.
Noise Level
Noise level is moderate, noticeable but not overly loud for a vacuum with such strong suction power.

The Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra is a strong choice for homes with thick carpets and pets. With a powerful suction of 290 AW and a 3.24 horsepower motor, it offers excellent deep cleaning, especially on medium and deep-pile carpets. Its motorbar brush roll features a unique de-tangling function that automatically clears hair, making it ideal for pet owners who often deal with hair wrapping around the brush. The vacuum provides three suction modes to suit different floor types and cleaning needs, enhancing its versatility for both carpets and hard floors.

While it does not have a specified height adjustment, the multiple suction modes help adapt to various carpet thicknesses. Weighing about 17 pounds, it is somewhat heavy but incorporates Dyson’s ball technology, which allows for smooth turning and maneuvering around furniture and obstacles, ensuring it remains manageable during cleaning sessions.

This vacuum is bagless with a 0.45-gallon capacity, making it easy to empty, and includes whole-machine washable filtration that traps allergens and dust, helping maintain cleaner indoor air. The noise level is around 75 decibels, which is moderate and noticeable but not overly loud. Included pet-specific tools such as a groom tool and tangle-free turbine brush enhance its effectiveness for homes with medium to long-haired pets. Its corded design requires cord management during use, which might restrict mobility in larger spaces. The vacuum is backed by a solid 5-year warranty and Dyson’s customer support, providing additional peace of mind. The vacuum suits users with thick carpets and pets who need powerful suction, hair-tangle solutions, and effective filtration, although its weight and corded design may not be ideal for everyone.

Rating
8.8
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Height Adjustment

Most important from
3938 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum delivers exceptionally powerful suction, making deep cleaning thick carpets highly effective, though it can be hard to push without adjusting suction settings.
Brush Roll
Its motorbar brush roll with automatic hair detangling impressively prevents hair wrap, saving time and effort especially for pet owners dealing with shedding.
Height Adjustment
The vacuum does not have a height adjustment but its multiple suction modes adequately handle various carpet thicknesses without difficulty.
Weight and Maneuverability
The vacuum maneuvers smoothly around furniture thanks to Dyson’s ball technology, striking a good balance between stability and steering precision.
Filtration System
The whole-machine washable filtration effectively traps allergens and dust, helping maintain cleaner indoor air in homes with pets.
Noise Level
Noise level is moderate, noticeable but not overly loud for a vacuum with such strong suction power.
#3

Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum, 185AW, 3 Power Modes, Up to 60 Minutes,² Deep Cleans Hard Floors and Carpets, Detangles pet Hair, Converts to Handheld

Rating
8.8
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
2430 reviews

Suction Power
The cordless design and powerful suction make cleaning fast and efficient. It even handles dog hair effortlessly.
Weight and Maneuverability
It's much easier to use, especially for those with back problems. Lightweight and at the right height, making it incredibly user-friendly.

The Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum offers several strengths, particularly for users with thick carpets. With 60% more power and up to 60 minutes of run time, it provides strong suction power which is essential for deep cleaning thick carpets. The Motorbar cleaner head is designed to deep clean all floor types and effectively de-tangles long hair and pet hair, making it suitable for homes with pets. Additionally, the vacuum converts to a handheld mode, adding versatility for cleaning cars, stairs, and upholstery.

The advanced whole-machine filtration system, which traps 99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, ensures cleaner air expulsion, which is beneficial for allergy sufferers. It is also lightweight and cordless, enhancing maneuverability around the home. However, the vacuum lacks specific height adjustment features, which might limit its optimal use on different carpet thicknesses. While bagless models like this one save on replacement bags, they can be messier to empty.

Despite these drawbacks, the Dyson V11 provides a robust cleaning solution, especially for those needing powerful suction and versatility in a cordless vacuum.

Rating
8.8
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
2430 reviews

Suction Power
The cordless design and powerful suction make cleaning fast and efficient. It even handles dog hair effortlessly.
Weight and Maneuverability
It's much easier to use, especially for those with back problems. Lightweight and at the right height, making it incredibly user-friendly.

Buying Guide for the Best Vacuum For Thick Carpets

Choosing the right vacuum cleaner for thick carpets can make a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. Thick carpets require a vacuum that can effectively remove dirt and debris without damaging the fibers. Here are some key specifications to consider when selecting a vacuum cleaner for thick carpets, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Suction PowerSuction power refers to the vacuum's ability to lift dirt and debris from the carpet. This is crucial for thick carpets as they tend to trap more dirt deep within the fibers. Suction power is often measured in watts or air watts. For thick carpets, a higher suction power is generally better, as it ensures that the vacuum can reach deep into the carpet pile. However, too much suction can make the vacuum difficult to push. Look for a vacuum with adjustable suction settings so you can find the right balance for your carpet.
Brush RollThe brush roll, or beater bar, is a rotating brush that helps to agitate the carpet fibers and loosen dirt. For thick carpets, a motorized brush roll is essential as it provides the necessary agitation to lift dirt from deep within the pile. Some vacuums offer adjustable brush roll heights, which can be beneficial for different carpet thicknesses. Ensure the brush roll can be turned off or adjusted to prevent damage to delicate carpet fibers.
Height AdjustmentHeight adjustment allows you to raise or lower the vacuum's base to match the height of your carpet. This feature is particularly important for thick carpets, as it ensures the vacuum can move smoothly over the surface without getting stuck or causing damage. Look for vacuums with multiple height settings so you can customize the height to your specific carpet type.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight and maneuverability of a vacuum cleaner are important factors to consider, especially for thick carpets. Heavier vacuums can be difficult to push through dense carpet fibers, leading to fatigue and frustration. Opt for a vacuum that is lightweight and easy to maneuver, with swivel steering or other features that enhance its ability to navigate around furniture and other obstacles.
Filtration SystemA good filtration system is essential for trapping dust, allergens, and other particles that can be released back into the air during vacuuming. High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are highly effective at capturing small particles and are recommended for households with allergies or asthma. Ensure the vacuum has a sealed system to prevent dust from escaping and check the filter's maintenance requirements.
Bagged vs. BaglessVacuum cleaners come in bagged and bagless models. Bagged vacuums use disposable bags to collect dirt, which can be more hygienic and easier to dispose of, especially for allergy sufferers. Bagless vacuums use a dustbin that needs to be emptied regularly. Consider your preference for convenience and maintenance when choosing between the two. Bagged models may be better for those who prefer less frequent emptying and reduced exposure to dust.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a vacuum cleaner can be an important consideration, especially if you have a household with young children, pets, or noise-sensitive individuals. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Vacuums with lower decibel ratings are quieter and more pleasant to use. Look for vacuums that offer a good balance between performance and noise level to ensure a comfortable cleaning experience.

FAQ