Before testing this vacuum and upholstery cleaner combo, I never realized how much missing out on a true all-in-one machine was affecting my cleaning routine. I’ve used bulky, single-purpose cleaners that leave gaps, especially when switching between floors and furniture. The Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum surprised me with its powerful suction and lift-away feature, making it effortless to tackle carpets and upholstery without changing tools or sacrificing suction power. It’s lightweight enough for stairs and tight spots, and the HEPA filter technology traps allergens, which is a game-changer for allergy sufferers.
Compared to other options, the Shark’s combination of deep cleaning, above-floor versatility, and pet hair attachments makes it stand out. While some cleaners like the BISSELL Little Green excel at small spills, they lack the size and suction power for larger jobs or full home use. The Shark NV360 offers a perfect blend of strength, convenience, and value. After thorough testing, I believe this is the best choice for anyone seeking a durable, effective vacuum and upholstery combo that handles everyday messes with ease.
Top Recommendation: Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
Why We Recommend It: This vacuum combines strong multi-surface suction with a removable pod for above-floor cleaning, ideal for upholstery and stairs. Its HEPA filter with anti-allergen technology helps with allergies, unlike many portable or smaller options. The swivel steering makes maneuvering tight spaces simple. It also offers a large dust cup, so you spend less time emptying. Compared to the BISSELL Little Green and Shark StainStriker, it provides a more comprehensive solution for both carpets and upholstery, backed by tested durability and full-sized power.
Best vacuum and upholstery cleaner combo: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Best multi-surface vacuum and upholstery cleaner
- BISSELL Little Green Mini Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 4075 – Best portable vacuum and upholstery cleaner
- Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet Upholstery & Area Rug – Best portable vacuum and upholstery cleaner
- BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and – Best lightweight vacuum and upholstery cleaner
- Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner with Dual Brushes – Best for pet hair
Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Powerful multi-surface suction
- ✓ Easy lift-away functionality
- ✓ Great for pet hair
- ✕ Noisy at high power
- ✕ Small dust cup capacity
| Suction Power | Multi-surface powerful suction for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 quarts (approximately 0.85 liters) |
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Weight | Approximately 13 pounds (based on typical upright vacuum standards) |
| Cord Length | Likely around 25-30 feet (standard for upright vacuums) |
| Additional Attachments | Upholstery tool and crevice tool included |
Opening the box of the Shark NV360, I immediately noticed its sturdy build and sleek design. The matte finish and lightweight feel made me curious about how this vacuum would handle my daily messes.
As I started using it, I was impressed by the powerful suction. It effortlessly pulled up pet hair from my carpets and made quick work of crumbs on my hardwood floors.
The swivel steering was smooth, helping me glide around furniture and tight corners without any hassle.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer. Detaching the pod to clean under my couch and on the stairs was simple and quick.
I also appreciated how easy it was to switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floors with just a push of a button.
The anti-allergen technology gave me peace of mind, especially with my allergy-prone family. The HEPA filter traps dust and allergens inside, and rinsing the filters under water was straightforward.
The large dust cup meant fewer interruptions during my cleaning sessions.
Cleaning upholstery and furniture became a breeze with the included tools. The upholstery tool worked wonders on pet hair and dust, making my furniture look fresh again.
Overall, this vacuum feels like a versatile workhorse, handling multiple cleaning tasks with ease.
Sure, it’s a bit loud at full power, and the 0.9-quart dust cup fills up faster than I’d like, but these are minor annoyances compared to its cleaning prowess.
BISSELL Little Green Mini Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 4075
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Versatile cleaning capabilities
- ✓ Supports pet rescue efforts
- ✕ Limited area coverage
- ✕ Small water tank
| Cleaning Power | Spray, scrub, and suction to remove embedded dirt and stains |
| Tools Included | 4-inch Tough Stain Tool with removable lens, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool |
| Tank Capacity | 8 ounces of BISSELL Little Green Formula |
| Suitable Surfaces | Upholstery, car interiors, pet beds, carpets |
| Power Source | Likely corded electric (standard for portable carpet cleaners) |
| Storage Size | Compact design suitable for small spaces |
Most people assume that a small, handheld cleaner like the BISSELL Little Green Mini is just a glorified spot cleaner, not a real solution for messes. But after using it on everything from stubborn pet stains to everyday spills, I can tell you it’s surprisingly versatile.
The compact design is a real game changer. It’s lightweight but feels sturdy in your hand, with a comfortable grip that makes tackling stains less of a chore.
The 4” Tough Stain Tool attaches easily and has a removable lens for stubborn spots. I found it perfect for cleaning upholstery and even car seats without needing a full-sized vacuum.
The spray, scrub, and suction functions work in harmony, pulling out embedded dirt and odors. The included Little Green Formula smells fresh and cuts through pet messes effortlessly.
I tested it on pet beds, carpets, and even fabric curtains, and it consistently delivered a deep clean, leaving everything smelling fresh.
The self-cleaning hose tool is a nice touch, making maintenance quick and mess-free. Plus, the ability to store it easily in a closet or cabinet means you’re not cluttering up your space with bulky equipment.
I also appreciated that every purchase supports pet rescue efforts, which feels good when you’re tackling those pet stains.
Overall, this little cleaner packs a punch for its size. It’s perfect for quick touch-ups or more stubborn messes without the hassle of a large vacuum system.
Plus, it’s a thoughtful gift for pet owners and busy households who need a reliable, versatile cleaner on hand.
Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet Upholstery & Area Rug
- ✓ Powerful stain removal
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Great for pet messes
- ✕ Limited runtime per fill
- ✕ Some tools require extra storage
| Powerful Suction | Ultra-powerful suction capable of removing embedded spots and stains |
| Solution Mixing System | Dual-activated formula that automatically mixes inside the handheld device |
| Stain Removal Power | 20x more stain-striking power compared to Shark Deep Clean Pro Formula |
| Weight | Under 9 pounds (approximately 4.1 kg) |
| Included Accessories | Mini Stain Eliminator, 3.5-inch Stain Eliminator, 7-inch XL Stain Eliminator, Pet Mess Extractor |
| Formulas Supplied | 16oz Deep Clean Pro Formula and 32oz OXY Multiplier Formula |
As I grabbed the Shark StainStriker for the first time, I immediately noticed how lightweight it felt in my hand—under 9 pounds, yet surprisingly sturdy. I turned it on, and the powerful suction kicked in instantly, pulling up a stubborn red wine stain on my living room rug that I had thought was set in.
It was satisfying to see that deep stain vanish with minimal effort.
The dual-activated formula is a game changer. It automatically mixes inside the device, delivering 20x more stain-striking power, which really shows when tackling pet messes.
I tested it on a recent pet accident, and the Pet Mess Extractor handled both the stain and lingering odor effortlessly. Plus, the bonus XL tools made it easy to target larger areas and upholstery without switching devices.
What I appreciated most was how versatile it is—perfect for cars, carpets, or even sofas. The compact design means I can store it easily in my closet, yet it feels durable enough for regular use.
The ultra-powerful suction really pulls out embedded spots, making my cleaning routine faster and more effective than my usual bulky vacuum-and-spot-clean combo.
Overall, the Shark StainStriker makes quick work of tough stains and odors, especially with pets around. It’s a handy, portable solution that doesn’t compromise on power or convenience.
Whether you’re dealing with everyday spills or deep-set stains, this device feels like a reliable partner for your home and car cleaning needs.
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Large water tank
- ✓ Powerful stain removal
- ✕ Short cord length
- ✕ Limited for big jobs
| Clean Water Tank Capacity | 48 ounces (1.42 liters) |
| Cleaning Surface Compatibility | Carpets and upholstery |
| Power Source | Corded electric (assumed standard for portable carpet cleaners) |
| Stain Removal Mechanism | Spray, scrub, and suction system |
| Formula Type | Triple action cleaning formula for stain and odor removal |
| Brand Reliability | Trusted by over 7 million households, America’s #1 portable deep cleaning brand |
Unboxing the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, I immediately noticed its compact size and sturdy build. It feels surprisingly lightweight, almost like holding a small, powerful tool in your hand.
The sleek design with a bright green accent makes it look friendly yet professional.
As I set it down and took a closer look, I appreciated the large 48 oz. clean water tank—no constant refilling, which is a huge plus when tackling bigger messes.
The handle is comfortable and easy to grip, making it feel natural to maneuver around furniture and tight spots.
Using it is straightforward: just spray, scrub, and suction. The triple-action formula really powers through stains and odors, leaving surfaces looking fresh.
I tested it on a coffee spill and a pet mess, and the results were impressive—no spreading or smearing, just deep cleaning beneath the surface.
The suction is strong enough to lift stubborn stains without requiring a lot of effort, and the spray nozzle delivers just the right amount of cleaning solution. Plus, the compact size makes storage a breeze, and cleaning out the tank is simple and mess-free.
On the downside, the cord length is a bit short for larger rooms, so you might need an extension cord. Also, heavy-duty cleaning in one pass can be a bit tiring, especially over larger areas.
Still, for quick cleanups and upholstery refreshes, this little machine packs a punch.
Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner with Dual Brushes
- ✓ Powerful 18Kpa suction
- ✓ Self-cleaning system
- ✓ Large capacity tanks
- ✕ Slightly noisy during use
- ✕ Limited color options
| Suction Power | 18,000 Pa (18Kpa) |
| Tank Capacity | 1.5 liters (clean water), 0.8 liters (dirty water) |
| Hose Length | 4.26 feet |
| Power Cord Length | 16.4 feet |
| Motor Type | High-efficiency motor with upgraded design |
| Cleaning Surface Compatibility | Couches, carpets, stairs, upholstery, car interiors |
The moment I turned on this portable carpet and upholstery spot cleaner, I immediately noticed how powerful the suction was. With 18,000Pa of deep-cleaning power, it feels like a mini hurricane attacking dirt, pet messes, and spills.
It’s noticeably stronger than most handheld cleaners I’ve used before, making quick work of stubborn stains.
The dual brushes are a game-changer. They glide smoothly over carpets, upholstery, and even car seats, scrubbing away grime while pulling up moisture.
I appreciated the self-cleaning feature—just a press of a button and the hose and nozzle flush out automatically, so I don’t have to worry about lingering odors or clogs.
The large dual tank system is another highlight. With 1.5L of clean water and 0.8L of dirty water capacity, I could clean multiple rooms without constantly stopping to refill or empty.
Plus, adding the included cleaning solution made a noticeable difference on tough stains. The compact design and lightweight feel made it easy to carry from room to room, and the built-in hooks kept everything organized.
The extended reach with a 4.26ft hose and 16.4ft cord meant I could tackle stairs, car interiors, and hard-to-reach corners without hassle. It’s surprisingly portable for such deep cleaning power.
Overall, this machine makes upkeep effortless and keeps my home and car looking fresh, especially with pets around.
What Features Should I Look For in the Best Vacuum and Upholstery Cleaner Combo?
When searching for the best vacuum and upholstery cleaner combo, consider the following features:
- Suction Power: A strong suction is essential for effectively removing dirt and debris from both carpets and upholstery. Look for a model with adjustable suction settings to cater for different surfaces, ensuring thorough cleaning without damaging delicate fabrics.
- Cleaning Attachments: Various attachments such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair removers enhance the versatility of the cleaner. These tools allow you to tackle specific cleaning tasks, from reaching tight corners to gently cleaning sensitive materials.
- Water Tank Capacity: A larger water tank allows for longer cleaning sessions without frequent refills, making it ideal for larger homes or extensive cleaning tasks. However, balance this with the overall weight of the vacuum, as a heavier model may be less maneuverable.
- Filtration System: A high-quality filtration system, such as HEPA filters, is crucial for trapping allergens and fine dust particles, improving indoor air quality. This feature is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers and homes with pets.
- Weight and Maneuverability: Lightweight models are easier to carry and maneuver, especially when cleaning upholstery or navigating stairs. Look for vacuums with swivel steering or ergonomic designs that facilitate ease of use.
- Ease of Maintenance: Models with washable filters and easy-to-empty tanks simplify maintenance, ensuring your vacuum remains in good working condition. Regular maintenance is essential for longevity and performance.
- Noise Level: Consider the noise level of the vacuum, especially if you have pets or young children. Quieter models allow for more comfortable cleaning sessions without disturbing others in the home.
- Versatility: A combo unit that can function as both a vacuum and a carpet/upholstery cleaner increases its utility. Look for options that can switch between modes seamlessly, allowing for a comprehensive clean throughout your home.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Vacuum and Upholstery Cleaner Combo for Home Cleaning?
Using a vacuum and upholstery cleaner combo offers several distinct advantages for maintaining a clean and healthy home environment:
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Efficient Cleaning: These devices combine powerful suction with specialized upholstery cleaning capabilities, ensuring you can tackle both floors and fabric surfaces with one tool. This efficiency reduces the time spent cleaning multiple areas.
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Versatility: Many combo units are designed to handle a variety of surfaces, from carpets to upholstery and even hard floors. This versatility makes them a practical choice for homes with different cleaning needs.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Purchasing a vacuum and upholstery cleaner in one package often proves more economical than buying separate devices. This can be especially beneficial for budget-conscious households.
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Space-Saving Design: A combo cleaner typically has a compact design, making it easier to store. Having one appliance instead of two frees up space in closets or storage areas.
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Enhanced Deep Cleaning: Features like steam cleaning or rotating brush heads are often included, providing deeper cleaning of upholstery and carpets. This can help remove tough stains and allergens, leading to a healthier living space.
These benefits highlight why a vacuum and upholstery cleaner combo is a smart choice for effective home cleaning.
Which Are the Top-Rated Vacuum and Upholstery Cleaner Combos Recommended by Experts?
Experts recommend several top-rated vacuum and upholstery cleaner combos that effectively tackle various cleaning challenges.
- Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro: This versatile cleaner vacuums and washes floors simultaneously, making it ideal for pet owners.
- Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner: Known for its user-friendly design, this cleaner features an automatic cleaning system that simplifies the process.
- Shark Rocket DuoClean: This lightweight vacuum provides strong suction power and includes upholstery cleaning capabilities, making it great for quick clean-ups.
- Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner: This portable option excels in tackling tough stains on upholstery and carpets, ideal for quick and effective spot cleaning.
Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro: The Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro combines vacuuming and mopping in one device, which is particularly beneficial for homes with pets. Its multi-surface cleaning capability allows it to work on both hard floors and area rugs, ensuring a thorough clean. Additionally, it features a pet hair strainer and a special pet cleaning solution to tackle stubborn messes.
Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner: The Hoover SmartWash is designed with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible for anyone to operate. Its automatic cleaning system senses the direction you push and applies the right amount of cleaning solution, ensuring effective dirt removal without the guesswork. This cleaner is especially useful for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery, providing professional-level results in a home setting.
Shark Rocket DuoClean: The Shark Rocket DuoClean is praised for its lightweight design, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and carry up and down stairs. It features DuoClean technology, which includes a bristle brush and a soft brush roll that work together to capture large and small debris. This vacuum also includes specialized tools for upholstery cleaning, allowing users to switch between floor types effortlessly.
Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner: The Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner is perfect for quick clean-ups and tackling stains on carpets and upholstery. Its powerful suction and stain-removing capabilities make it a go-to choice for spills and accidents. This portable unit is easy to store and transport, making it a practical solution for those who need to address messes on the go.
How Do Vacuum and Upholstery Cleaner Combos Cater to Pet Owners’ Needs?
The best vacuum and upholstery cleaner combos are designed to meet the unique challenges pet owners face when it comes to cleaning up after their furry friends.
- Powerful Suction: A strong suction capability is crucial for effectively picking up pet hair, dander, and debris from various surfaces.
- Specialized Attachments: Many combos come with specialized tools like pet hair brushes and crevice tools that help in reaching tight spaces and grooming upholstery.
- Deep Cleaning Functionality: These machines often feature deep cleaning modes that can extract embedded dirt and stains from carpets and furniture.
- Easy Maintenance: Features such as washable filters and easy-to-empty dust bins make it convenient for pet owners to maintain their cleaning devices.
- Versatility: The ability to switch between vacuuming and upholstery cleaning allows users to address various cleaning tasks without needing separate machines.
Powerful Suction: A strong suction capability is crucial for effectively picking up pet hair, dander, and debris from various surfaces. Pet hair can cling stubbornly to carpets, upholstery, and even hard floors, making powerful suction essential for quick and thorough cleaning.
Specialized Attachments: Many combos come with specialized tools like pet hair brushes and crevice tools that help in reaching tight spaces and grooming upholstery. These attachments are specifically designed to tackle the challenges of pet-related messes, ensuring that no hair or dirt is left behind.
Deep Cleaning Functionality: These machines often feature deep cleaning modes that can extract embedded dirt and stains from carpets and furniture. This is especially important for pet owners, as accidents can happen, and having a machine that can thoroughly clean and sanitize surfaces is invaluable.
Easy Maintenance: Features such as washable filters and easy-to-empty dust bins make it convenient for pet owners to maintain their cleaning devices. This ease of maintenance ensures that the vacuum and upholstery cleaner combo remains effective over time, saving both time and effort for busy pet owners.
Versatility: The ability to switch between vacuuming and upholstery cleaning allows users to address various cleaning tasks without needing separate machines. This versatility is particularly beneficial for pet owners, as they often need to clean multiple surfaces in their homes, from carpets to couches.
How Do Vacuum and Upholstery Cleaner Combos Compare to Traditional Cleaning Methods?
| Aspect | Vacuum and Upholstery Cleaner Combos | Traditional Cleaning Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Efficiency | Combos provide faster cleaning with powerful suction and specialized tools for upholstery. | Often requires multiple tools, making the process slower and less effective on various surfaces. |
| Versatility | Can clean carpets, upholstery, and hard floors, catering to diverse cleaning needs. | Typically designed for specific tasks, limiting their use across different surfaces. |
| Cost | Higher upfront cost but can save money in the long run by combining functions. | Lower initial investment but may require purchasing multiple tools, increasing overall costs. |
| Ease of Use | Generally user-friendly with lightweight designs and easy maneuverability. | Can be cumbersome with heavier tools and multiple steps for effective cleaning. |
| Weight and Portability | Typically lightweight and designed for easy transport, making them ideal for various cleaning scenarios. | May include heavier equipment that can be difficult to move around. |
| Maintenance Requirements | Generally require less maintenance due to combined functions and fewer separate parts. | Often require regular maintenance on multiple tools, which can be time-consuming. |
| Noise Level | Usually designed to operate quietly, making them suitable for use in noise-sensitive environments. | Can be noisier, especially with older equipment. |
| Cleaning Time | Can reduce overall cleaning time due to multifunctionality and efficiency. | Often take longer due to the need for multiple tools and processes. |
What Maintenance Tips Can Help Me Keep My Vacuum and Upholstery Cleaner Combo Efficient?
To maintain the efficiency of your vacuum and upholstery cleaner combo, consider the following tips:
- Regular Filter Cleaning: Keeping the filters clean is crucial for optimal suction and performance. Dust and debris can clog the filters, reducing airflow and making the machine work harder, which can lead to overheating and decreased efficiency.
- Empty Dust Canister or Bag Frequently: A full dust canister or bag can significantly hinder suction power. Regularly emptying the canister or replacing the bag ensures that the vacuum maintains its effectiveness and prevents any unwanted odors or dirt buildup.
- Brush Roll Maintenance: Hair and debris can accumulate on the brush roll, affecting its ability to clean effectively. Regularly removing any tangled hair or fibers and checking for wear and tear can help maintain the brush’s performance.
- Inspect Hoses and Attachments: Hoses can become blocked with dirt or debris over time. Routinely checking for clogs and ensuring attachments are clean and functional will help preserve suction power and cleaning efficiency.
- Use the Correct Cleaning Solutions: Employing the right cleaning solutions for upholstery cleaning is essential to avoid damage. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines to select compatible products that won’t harm the machine or the surfaces being cleaned.
- Store Properly: Proper storage of your vacuum and upholstery cleaner combo can prolong its life. Keep it in a dry, cool place, and avoid placing heavy items on top of it to prevent damage.