The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Shark Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floors
- Vacuums Direct Team
- Dec 7
- 5 min read
Keeping your home clean can be a challenge, especially when you have different types of flooring. Carpets trap dust and dirt deep within their fibers, while hard floors require a gentle yet effective touch to avoid scratches. Choosing the right vacuum cleaner that handles both surfaces well can save you time and effort. Shark vacuums have earned a reputation for versatility and performance, making them a popular choice for many households. This guide will help you find the best Shark vacuum for carpet and hard floors, highlighting key features, models, and tips for making the right decision.
Why Choose a Shark Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floors?
Shark vacuums are known for their powerful suction, smart design, and adaptability. Many models come with features that make switching between carpet and hard floors seamless. Here’s why Shark stands out:
Strong suction power that lifts dirt from deep carpet fibers and picks up fine dust on hard floors.
Adjustable brush rolls that can be turned on for carpets and off for hard floors to prevent scratching.
Lightweight and maneuverable designs that make cleaning easier in tight spaces and around furniture.
Advanced filtration systems that trap allergens and dust, improving indoor air quality.
Versatile attachments for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and hard-to-reach areas.
These qualities make Shark vacuums a reliable choice for homes with mixed flooring.
Key Features to Look for in a Vacuum for Carpet and Hard Floors
When selecting a vacuum, consider these features to ensure it performs well on both surfaces:
Suction Power and Brush Roll Control
Carpets need strong suction and a rotating brush to loosen dirt, while hard floors require suction without the brush roll spinning to avoid scattering debris or scratching. Look for vacuums with:
Variable suction settings to adjust power based on floor type.
Brush roll on/off switch or automatic brush roll detection.
Filtration System
A good filtration system captures dust and allergens, which is especially important if you have pets or allergies. HEPA filters or sealed systems are ideal.
Weight and Maneuverability
Heavy vacuums can be tiring to use, especially on stairs or large areas. Lightweight models with swivel steering help you clean more efficiently.
Corded vs. Cordless
Corded vacuums provide consistent power but limit mobility. Cordless models offer freedom of movement but need battery management. Choose based on your cleaning habits and home size.
Attachments and Accessories
Tools like crevice tools, dusting brushes, and pet hair attachments increase versatility, allowing you to clean furniture, corners, and upholstery.
Top Shark Vacuum Models for Carpet and Hard Floors
Here are some of the best Shark vacuums that handle both carpet and hard floors effectively:
Our Best Cordless Pick
Suction and brush roll: Strong suction with the Duo Clean Power Fins Plus brush roll, this powerful roller head is perfect for hard floor and carpet
Design: Lift-away feature lets you detach the canister for portable cleaning.
Filtration: Anti-allergen complete seal technology with HEPA filter.
Weight: Comin in at only 5.11kg, it is easy to manoeuvre and move around the house.
Best for: Those who want a versatile and powerful cordless vacuum with excellent carpet cleaning and hard floor care.
Shop Now - Charcoal/Rose Gold - Charcoal/Bras Gold
Powerful Budget Option
Suction and brush roll: Powerful suction with a motorized brush for carpets.
Design: Lightweight upright vacuum that can lift away with 1 push on the pedal.
Filtration: HEPA filter captures fine dust.
Weight: About 5.25 kg to 5.6 kg in upright mode & 3.8 kg in lift away, very easy to carry.
Best for: Small to medium homes with mixed flooring and quick but extensive clean-ups.
Shark ICZ160 Anti Hair Wrap
Suction and brush roll: Anti Hair Wrap technology uses two brush rolls to clean carpets and hard floors simultaneously while detangling the roller by itself!
Design: Upright cordless vacuum with powered lift-away for portable cleaning.
Filtration: Advanced HEPA filtration system.
Weight: Approximately 5.5 kg.
Best for: Homes with carpet use and some hard floor cleaning.
This is the best cordless upright on the market full stop!
Shop Now -
Budget Cordless Pick
Suction and brush roll: Anti Hair Wrap design with 2 roller brush bars for carpets and hard floors.
Design: Cordless with flexible wand for under furniture cleaning.
Filtration: HEPA filter.
Weight: Around 4kg.
Best for: Those who prefer cordless convenience and flexible cleaning.
Colour: Multiple colour options to match your home
Shop Now - Burgundy - Purple - Orange - Teal
How to Use Your Shark Vacuum for Best Results on Carpet and Hard Floors
To get the most out of your Shark vacuum, follow these tips:
Adjust settings based on floor type. Turn off the brush roll on hard floors to prevent damage.
Clean the brush roll regularly. Remove hair and debris to maintain suction.
Empty the dustbin frequently. A full bin reduces performance.
Use attachments for edges and corners. The crevice tool helps clean baseboards and tight spaces.
Vacuum slowly on carpets. This allows the brush roll to agitate dirt effectively.
Check filters monthly. Clean or replace filters as recommended to keep air quality high.
Comparing Shark Vacuums to Other Brands
Shark vacuums compete with brands like Dyson, Hoover, and Bissell. Here’s how Shark stands out:
Price: Shark models often offer strong performance at a lower price point.
Versatility: Many Shark vacuums include features like lift-away canisters and DuoClean technology.
Ease of use: Lightweight designs and simple controls make Shark vacuums user-friendly.
Maintenance: Shark vacuums typically have washable filters and easy-to-clean brush rolls.
While Dyson may offer more advanced technology and Hoover may focus on pet hair, Shark balances power, convenience, and affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shark Vacuums
Can Shark vacuums handle pet hair on carpets and hard floors?
Yes, many Shark models come with specialized pet tools and strong suction designed to remove pet hair from all floor types.
Are Shark vacuums noisy?
Shark vacuums are generally quieter than many other brands, but noise levels vary by model.
How often should I replace Shark vacuum filters?
Filters should be cleaned monthly and replaced every 6 to 12 months depending on usage.
Do Shark vacuums work well on thick carpets?
Models with strong suction and motorized brush rolls, like the Navigator Lift-Away or Apex DuoClean, perform well on thick carpets.
Is it easy to switch between carpet and hard floor modes?
Yes, most Shark vacuums have simple controls or automatic sensors to switch brush rolls on or off.
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