Carpet cleaners are a useful addition to many busy homes. They remove things that vacuums leave behind, such as embedded dirt, oily residue, stains, and odors. But which carpet cleaner is right for you? Don't worry, you've got this. Carpet cleaners soak floors with water and, in some cases, a cleaning solution. They then extract the liquid along with any dirt, debris, and bacteria. Carpet cleaners, or cleaning systems, are available in both full size and portable models. The size and type of mess you need to regularly clean are your first considerations when purchasing a carpet cleaner. You'll also need to think about how much time you have. For deep cleaning your whole house, opt for a full-sized carpet cleaner. For a smaller job, like spot cleaning an armrest or car interior, go for a portable cleaner or a full-sized model with appropriate hoses and attachments. The cleaning solution you use can make a big difference when it comes to different kinds of messes. You can choose from a range of solutions, including antibacterial cleaners, pet odor eliminators, and formulas with fresh, clean scents. When you're in a hurry, carpet cleaners that vacuum and wash floors at the same time can really help as can models with a quick clean mode and fast drying period. Deep clean modes do take longer to dry, but they offer an intense level of clean. Some models have a brush that cleans hard floors as well as tile or hardwood just as well as carpets or rugs. If you're regularly dealing with stairs, then a smaller carpet cleaner with a flexible extended hose is a good choice. Don't forget, your carpet cleaner will need to be cleaned regularly. Some carpet cleaners need to be taken apart and cleaned by hand, while others have a convenient self-cleaning function. Purchase the carpet cleaner that's right for you, and you'll have no trouble keeping your floors clean. Don't worry, you've got this.