Shark CarpetXpert EX151

It ranks #7 (B tier) on our consolidated carpet cleaners board, drawn from 3 independent outlets.

Lower extraction power. Small water-tank.

It is for someone who wants strong stain removal and fast drying in a lightweight, affordable machine. Reviewers at RTINGS and Consumer Reports rate it the best value, and it delivers most of the flagship's performance at a better price. Its extraction is lower and the tank is small, so if you clean large rooms or badly soiled carpet, the Shark CarpetXpert EX304 in S tier is the better buy. Pet owners with the worst messes should look at the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro in A tier instead.

Buy the Shark CarpetXpert EX151 if you want value and a lighter machine for small to medium rooms. Buy the Shark CarpetXpert EX304 if you want the highest stain-removal scores, the fastest drying and the strongest extraction, and you are willing to pay a premium. The EX151 is the affordable version of the same design, and the gap between B tier and S tier is extraction power and tank size.

It is small enough that reviewers list it as a drawback. You will refill more often than with a big-tank machine, which matters on a large living room but not on a hallway or a single rug. Fill it near where you are cleaning so the refills cost you steps rather than minutes.

Yes. RTINGS and Consumer Reports both name it the best value carpet cleaner, and our board agrees that it delivers flagship-level stain removal and drying speed at a lower price and weight. The trade is lower extraction power and a small tank, which is why it sits in B tier rather than with the Shark CarpetXpert EX304 in S.

Empty the dirty water tank, rinse it, run clean water through the nozzle until it comes out clear, and leave the tanks off the machine to air dry. Clear hair from the brush roll and wipe the spray nozzle. Store it upright in a dry place with the tanks empty.