✔️ Size: "It's easy to fall head-over-heels for a carpet cleaner's efficiency without thinking about how it will fit into your home," says Simmonds. "Some of the most effective carpet cleaners are bulky and heavy, so they aren't suitable for smaller homes. Ensure you check the dimensions of the cleaner, so you know it'll fit in all of the gaps your pets frequent." Additionally, you'll want to consider what kind of storage space you're working with, so you don't buy a top-of-the-line cleaner only to have no room for it.
✔️ Accessories: Many carpet cleaners come with attachments and accessories specifically designed to get out tough stains, like pet urine. A few of the accessories Simmonds recommends keeping an eye out for are cleaners that have two separate tanks — one for the fresh cleaning solution, and one for the dirty solution — and cleaners with antimicrobial pet tools.
✔️ Capacity: If you're looking at a carpet cleaner that has a tank for the cleaning solution and/or a dustbin, it's worth considering how large it is. Some smaller cleaners will be easier to maneuver, but may need to be emptied more frequently.
✔️ Corded or Cordless: While cordless vacuums might be easier to maneuver, they tend to have less suction power than corded machines. If you have multiple pets, it might be worth investing in the more powerful option.
✔️ Cleaning solution: If you're using a carpet cleaner that relies on a cleaning solution, double-check that it's pet-safe. It's a safe bet that cleaning solutions formulated for pet messes won't contain anything toxic for pets, but always do your research. If possible, you can also keep your pets in another room until your carpet dries so they don't ingest anything they shouldn't.
