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 Vacuums For Thick Carpets 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

Shark Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner with Anti Hair Wrap, Up to 40 mins run-time, Flexible Vacuum Cleaner with Pet Tool, Crevice Tool & Upholstery Tool, Purple IZ202UKT

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,367
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Weight and Maneuverability
Suction Power
This Shark cordless vacuum is the best machine for cleaning carpets and hard floors, with amazing suction and a flexible stick that makes it easy to reach under furniture.
Brush Roll
The Anti Hair Wrap technology is a game-changer, eliminating the need to de-hair the rollers manually.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite being lightweight, the vacuum is top-heavy due to the motor's placement, making it less stable when standing alone.

The Shark Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner (IZ202UKT) is a strong contender for those dealing with thick carpets and pet hairs. Its Anti Hair Wrap technology efficiently removes hair from the brush roll, which is particularly useful for households with pets, ensuring the brush roll remains tangle-free. This model features a HEPA filter, which is excellent for capturing fine dust and allergens, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers.

When it comes to suction power, cordless vacuums may not always match the robust suction of corded models, potentially making it less effective on deeply embedded dirt in thick carpets. The runtime is up to 40 minutes, which is adequate for regular cleaning sessions, but might fall short for larger homes depending on the battery mode used. The Flexology wand provides flexibility, allowing you to clean hard-to-reach areas without straining yourself, and its ability to transform into a handheld vacuum adds to its convenience for cleaning stairs or furniture.

Weighing 2.2 kg in use, the vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver, which is an advantage on thicker carpets where pushing a heavier vacuum can be challenging. It’s designed as a bagless vacuum, which means you'll save on the cost of replacement bags, but you'll need to regularly empty the 1L capacity dust cup. For those prioritizing convenience, flexibility, and dealing with pet hair, this vacuum is well-suited. Nonetheless, if you’re focused on deep cleaning thick carpets and require extended runtime, you might want to consider models with stronger suction and a longer battery life.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,367
Suction Power
Brush Roll
Weight and Maneuverability
Suction Power
This Shark cordless vacuum is the best machine for cleaning carpets and hard floors, with amazing suction and a flexible stick that makes it easy to reach under furniture.
Brush Roll
The Anti Hair Wrap technology is a game-changer, eliminating the need to de-hair the rollers manually.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite being lightweight, the vacuum is top-heavy due to the motor's placement, making it less stable when standing alone.
#2

Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner 1.1L with Lift-Away Technology, LED Headlights, Anti-Allergen, 8m Cord, 750W, Crevice & Multi-Surface Tools, Blue/Black, NV602UK

Rating
10.0
Suction Power
Bagged vs. Bagless
Suction Power
This vacuum cleaner delivers edge-to-edge suction, picking up everything—even small toys left on the floor.
Bagged vs. Bagless
It's simple to empty and holds a significant amount before needing to be emptied.

The Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner with Lift-Away Technology is designed to cater to diverse cleaning needs, making it a practical choice for homes with thick carpets. It offers substantial suction power with its 750W motor, which is essential for deep cleaning thick carpets. The vacuum also features two floor modes, allowing you to easily switch between carpet and hard floor settings, which enhances its versatility. Although it doesn’t specifically mention adjustable height, the adjustable suction control can help accommodate different carpet thicknesses to some extent.

One of the standout features is its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, which captures 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it a great option for allergy sufferers. The washable pre- and post-filters also contribute to its effective filtration system, providing a cleaner air environment. Its weight of 5.1 kg is relatively light for an upright vacuum, enhancing maneuverability, particularly with the Lift-Away feature that transforms it into a portable unit for cleaning stairs and other hard-to-reach areas. However, despite the portability, the vacuum is corded, which might limit movement compared to cordless options.

The 1.1L dust capacity is decent for medium-sized homes but may require frequent emptying if used extensively on thick carpets. The vacuum is bagless, which can save on replacement costs but might be messier to empty. Additional features like LED headlights help illuminate dark areas, and the inclusion of tools such as the Crevice and Upholstery tools extend its functionality. An 8m cord provides a good range for larger rooms without needing to switch outlets frequently. This vacuum is a top seller and has received positive reviews, indicating user satisfaction. Its strengths lie in its powerful suction and allergen control, while its corded nature and potential limitations in height adjustment might be drawbacks for some users with very thick carpets.

Rating
10.0
Suction Power
Bagged vs. Bagless
Suction Power
This vacuum cleaner delivers edge-to-edge suction, picking up everything—even small toys left on the floor.
Bagged vs. Bagless
It's simple to empty and holds a significant amount before needing to be emptied.

Buying Guide for the Best Vacuums For Thick Carpets

When choosing a vacuum for thick carpets, it's important to consider features that will effectively clean deep into the carpet fibers without causing damage. Thick carpets require vacuums with strong suction power and the ability to adjust to different carpet heights. Additionally, ease of maneuverability and maintenance are key factors to ensure a smooth cleaning experience. Understanding the specifications that matter most for thick carpets will help you make an informed decision and find a vacuum that meets your needs.
Suction PowerSuction power is the force with which a vacuum pulls in dirt and debris. For thick carpets, strong suction is crucial to reach deep into the fibers and remove embedded dirt. Suction power is often measured in watts or air watts. Higher values indicate stronger suction, which is beneficial for thick carpets. However, too much suction can make the vacuum difficult to push. Look for vacuums with adjustable suction settings so you can tailor the power to your carpet's needs.
Brush RollThe brush roll is a rotating brush that helps agitate carpet fibers to loosen dirt. For thick carpets, a motorized brush roll is essential as it provides the necessary agitation to clean effectively. Some vacuums offer adjustable brush roll heights or the ability to turn the brush roll on and off, which can be useful for transitioning between carpet and hard floors. Choose a vacuum with a brush roll that can be adjusted or turned off to prevent damage to delicate carpet fibers.
Height AdjustmentHeight adjustment allows the vacuum to be set at different levels to accommodate various carpet thicknesses. This feature is important for thick carpets to ensure the vacuum can glide smoothly without getting stuck. Vacuums may have manual or automatic height adjustment. Manual adjustment gives you control over the setting, while automatic adjustment adapts to the carpet height as you clean. Consider your preference for control and convenience when choosing between these options.
Filtration SystemA good filtration system traps dust and allergens, preventing them from being released back into the air. This is particularly important for households with allergies or pets. HEPA filters are highly effective and can capture small particles, making them a great choice for maintaining air quality. When selecting a vacuum, consider the type of filtration system and how easy it is to clean or replace the filters. A vacuum with a high-quality filtration system will contribute to a healthier home environment.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight and maneuverability of a vacuum affect how easy it is to use, especially on thick carpets. Heavier vacuums can be more challenging to push and pull, while lighter models are easier to handle. Look for vacuums with swivel steering or other features that enhance maneuverability. If you have a large area of thick carpet, a vacuum that is easy to move around will make the cleaning process more efficient and less tiring.
Bagged vs. BaglessVacuums come in bagged and bagless models, each with its pros and cons. Bagged vacuums tend to hold more dirt and are less messy to empty, which can be beneficial for allergy sufferers. Bagless vacuums eliminate the need to buy replacement bags and often have clear canisters so you can see when they need to be emptied. Consider your preference for convenience and maintenance when deciding between bagged and bagless options.