Our expert testers give every carpet shampooer a thorough workout (using manufacturers’ preferred cleaning solutions) to help find the models that:

• are best at removing ground-in dirt
• are easy to manoeuvre and control
• have minimal residual wetness.

We’ve also partnered with Shop Ethical on this update to show the ratings that the Ethical Consumer Group gives to each company.

Shopping links on the CHOICE website

CHOICE is an independent, nonprofit organisation dedicated to helping consumers. Clicking a link will take you to a retailer’s website to shop. While we make money if you buy through some retailer links, this doesn’t influence any of our rankings. 100% of the money we make goes straight back into our nonprofit mission. We’re currently testing this service and will consider providing more shopping links in the future. Tell us what you think.

A good carpet shampooer will refresh tired carpets and lift ground-in dirt. Our test covers models sold in retail stores from Vax, Bissell, Sauber, Tineco and Hoover, as well as hire models found in Woolworths or Bunnings from Britex and Rug Doctor.

Our interactive comparison tool helps you find out which brands are heaviest, or have useful features like upholstery tools. Our Recommended list will quickly show you which models come out on top.

Note: Our gallery photos are of the models we test and may show mild use.