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 Carpet Shampoos 2025 in the UK

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

Vax Original 1.5L Carpet Cleaner Solution | Suitable for Everyday Cleaning - 1-9-142055, White

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,203
Carpet Type Compatibility
Cleaning Power
Scent
Carpet Type Compatibility
It works in my Bissell carpet washer, showing compatibility beyond Vax machines.
Cleaning Power
It's cleaned my carpets really well, bringing them back to life for only £10, much cheaper than other brands.
Scent
Lifts stains easily and leaves a nice, fresh smell without being too strong.
Concentration and Dilution
Easy to measure with 120mls to three litres of water, making it convenient to use.

The Vax Original 1.5L Carpet Cleaner Solution is a versatile choice for everyday cleaning needs around the home, particularly for those who use Vax carpet cleaners. It is specifically formulated to tackle everyday stains and spills, making it an excellent option for households with children or pets. The shampoo is designed to neutralize odors rather than just mask them, leaving a fresh Rose Burst scent that can be quite pleasant if you enjoy floral fragrances. This feature might be especially appealing for pet owners who struggle with lingering pet odors.

In terms of cleaning power, the solution is suitable for both carpets and upholstery, which adds to its versatility. It is important to note that it is specifically recommended for use with Vax carpet cleaners, suggesting that users might not achieve the same level of efficiency with other machines.

This carpet cleaner solution is best suited for households that already use Vax cleaning equipment and prefer a floral scent in their cleaning products.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,203
Carpet Type Compatibility
Cleaning Power
Scent
Carpet Type Compatibility
It works in my Bissell carpet washer, showing compatibility beyond Vax machines.
Cleaning Power
It's cleaned my carpets really well, bringing them back to life for only £10, much cheaper than other brands.
Scent
Lifts stains easily and leaves a nice, fresh smell without being too strong.
Concentration and Dilution
Easy to measure with 120mls to three litres of water, making it convenient to use.
#2

Vax Platinum Professional 4 Litre Carpet Cleaner Solution | Deep Cleans and Removes Tough Stains | Neutralises Pet Odours - 1-9-142060, Charcoal

Rating
9.6
Cleaning Power
Scent
Cleaning Power
Excellent at removing marks and stains off carpets with the Vax carpet cleaner.
Scent
Smells great and leaves a fresh scent.

The Vax Platinum Professional Carpet Cleaner Solution offers a robust solution for those looking to maintain the cleanliness and freshness of their carpets, particularly in pet-friendly homes. Its standout feature is the Oxy-Lift Stain Technology, which effectively tackles tough, embedded dirt and stubborn stains, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas. Additionally, the CarpetGuard feature helps in reducing the risk of re-soiling, which is beneficial for long-term carpet maintenance.

Pet owners will particularly appreciate its ability to neutralize pet odors rather than just masking them, leaving your home with a refreshing rose burst scent. The fragrance might be a plus for those who enjoy floral scents, but it could potentially be overwhelming for those sensitive to strong odors.

This solution is designed to work optimally with Vax carpet cleaners, which means it guarantees the best performance when used with compatible equipment. However, this might limit its versatility if you own a different brand of carpet cleaner. Eco-friendliness isn't prominently highlighted, which may be a consideration for environmentally conscious users. It is concentrated, allowing for dilution, which provides a good value considering its large 4-liter volume, making it a cost-effective choice for frequent cleaners.

While the product's cleaning power and formulation are strong suits, its specific design for Vax machines could be seen as a limitation. In sum, the Vax Carpet Cleaner Solution shines in households with pets and those needing a powerful cleaning agent, as long as you have or plan to use a Vax carpet cleaner.

Rating
9.6
Cleaning Power
Scent
Cleaning Power
Excellent at removing marks and stains off carpets with the Vax carpet cleaner.
Scent
Smells great and leaves a fresh scent.
#3

Vax Platinum Professional 1.5 Litre Carpet Cleaner Solution | Deep Cleans and Removes Tough Stains | Neutralises Pet Odours - 1-9-139136, Charcoal

Rating
9.3
Cleaning Power
Cleaning Power
The solution is excellent at removing marks and stains, especially when used with a Vax carpet cleaner.

The Vax Platinum Professional 1.5L Carpet Cleaner Solution stands out for its powerful cleaning capabilities and is particularly effective for tough, stubborn stains due to its OxyLift Stain Technology. This feature breaks down and lifts dirt embedded in carpet fibers, making it a strong choice for homes with high foot traffic or pets. Additionally, it neutralizes pet odors rather than just masking them, leaving a refreshing Rose Burst scent which is quite pleasant but might not suit everyone’s preference.

The CarpetGuard feature is beneficial as it prevents stains and reduces the risk of re-soiling, which means your carpets can stay cleaner for longer periods between washes. Designed specifically for use with Vax carpet cleaners, it ensures you get optimal performance when paired with these machines. However, this might limit its versatility if you do not own a Vax cleaner.

The product is eco-friendly in its cleaning power and efficiency. The solution is concentrated, so you can dilute it according to your needs, making it economical in the long run. Some users might find it a bit pricey compared to generic options. The Vax Platinum Professional Carpet Cleaner Solution is a robust option for those needing a strong cleaning solution, especially in homes with pets and high traffic, provided you use a Vax carpet cleaner.

Rating
9.3
Cleaning Power
Cleaning Power
The solution is excellent at removing marks and stains, especially when used with a Vax carpet cleaner.

Buying Guide for the Best Carpet Shampoos

Choosing the right carpet shampoo is essential for maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. The right product can effectively remove dirt, stains, and odors, leaving your carpet looking fresh and new. When selecting a carpet shampoo, consider the type of carpet you have, the specific cleaning needs, and any sensitivities to chemicals or fragrances. Understanding the key specifications of carpet shampoos will help you make an informed decision that best suits your cleaning requirements.
Carpet Type CompatibilityCarpet type compatibility refers to whether a carpet shampoo is suitable for the specific material and construction of your carpet. This is important because using the wrong shampoo can damage your carpet fibers or leave residues. Carpets can be made from natural fibers like wool or synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester. Some shampoos are formulated for specific types, while others are versatile. To choose the right one, identify your carpet type and look for shampoos that explicitly mention compatibility with it.
Cleaning PowerCleaning power indicates how effectively a carpet shampoo can remove dirt, stains, and odors. This is crucial for maintaining the appearance and hygiene of your carpet. Shampoos with strong cleaning power often contain enzymes or oxygen-based ingredients that break down tough stains. If your carpet experiences heavy foot traffic or frequent spills, opt for a shampoo with high cleaning power. For regular maintenance, a milder formula may suffice.
Residue-Free FormulaA residue-free formula ensures that the carpet shampoo does not leave behind any sticky or soapy residues after cleaning. This is important because residues can attract more dirt and make your carpet look dirty faster. Shampoos that are labeled as residue-free or low-residue are designed to rinse out completely. If you want to avoid frequent re-cleaning, choose a shampoo that promises a residue-free finish.
ScentThe scent of a carpet shampoo can affect the overall freshness of your home environment. Some people prefer a strong fragrance to mask odors, while others may be sensitive to strong scents and prefer unscented or lightly scented options. Consider your personal preference and any allergies or sensitivities when choosing a scent. If you have pets or children, you might want to opt for a hypoallergenic or fragrance-free shampoo.
Eco-FriendlinessEco-friendliness refers to the environmental impact of the carpet shampoo, including its ingredients and packaging. This is important for those who are environmentally conscious and want to reduce their carbon footprint. Eco-friendly shampoos often use biodegradable ingredients and recyclable packaging. If sustainability is a priority for you, look for products labeled as eco-friendly, biodegradable, or with certifications from environmental organizations.
Concentration and DilutionConcentration and dilution refer to how much the carpet shampoo needs to be mixed with water before use. Concentrated formulas are more economical as they require less product per cleaning session. This is important for those who want to get the most value out of their purchase. If you have a large area to clean or plan to use the shampoo frequently, a concentrated formula might be more cost-effective. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for dilution to ensure optimal cleaning results.