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Life with a large family is a beautiful whirlwind of activity, laughter, and… well, a constant stream of messes. From cereal explosions at breakfast to muddy paw prints tracking in after playtime, and the seemingly endless parade of crumbs, pet hair, and stray toys, your floors bear the brunt of it all. Standard cleaning routines often feel like a losing battle, leaving you frustrated and exhausted, wondering if you’re spending more time wrestling with an underpowered or unreliable vacuum than actually cleaning. It’s not just about tidiness; it’s about reclaiming precious time and energy for what truly matters – your family.
This is where the idea of a premium upright vacuum shifts from a luxury to a strategic household investment. Forget the flimsy models that clog on the first Cheerio or lose suction after a month of real-world chaos. A truly premium upright is engineered specifically for the relentless demands of family living. It’s about durability that withstands bumps and drops, suction that conquers embedded dirt without constant rework, and features designed to make cleaning less of a chore in a home that’s always in motion. Investing wisely here isn’t about splurging; it’s about choosing a reliable partner that saves you time, money, and sanity over the long haul, transforming a dreaded task into something genuinely manageable.
Top 10 Premium Upright Vacuums
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust Cup Capacity, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Crevice Tool, Blue, NV360
, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe with Large Dust Cup Capacity, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Crevice Tool, Blue, NV360](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31eWtMcD43L._SL160_.jpg)
Overview: The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 is a versatile upright vacuum designed for multi-surface cleaning in homes with pets or allergies. Its bagless design combines strong suction with user-friendly features for everyday messes.
What Makes It Stand Out: Lift-Away functionality transforms it into a portable canister for stairs and upholstery, while the HEPA-filtered anti-allergen seal traps 99.9% of dust and dander. Swivel steering and included pet tools simplify maneuvering around furniture and tackling embedded fur.
Value for Money: Priced mid-range, it outperforms budget vacuums with its robust suction and specialized attachments. Though premium models exist, the NV360’s durability and included tools justify its cost for most households, eliminating the need for separate handheld units.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Exceptional pet hair pickup, lightweight lift-away pod, large dust cup reduces emptying frequency, and effective HEPA filtration. Weaknesses: Dust cup can be tricky to clean thoroughly, and cord length (25 ft) may require frequent outlet changes in larger homes.
Bottom Line: An excellent all-rounder for pet owners and allergy sufferers seeking powerful, flexible cleaning without overspending; highly recommended for medium-sized homes.
2. Simplicity Vacuums Premium Allergy Upright Vacuum Cleaner – Multi-Surface Bagged Vacuum Cleaner for Home with Charcoal HEPA Filter Media, Powerful Pet Hair Pickup, Brushroll Activation Switch, S26
 – Multi-Surface Bagged Vacuum Cleaner for Home with Charcoal HEPA Filter Media, Powerful Pet Hair Pickup, Brushroll Activation Switch, S26](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/413KTQFzK2L._SL160_.jpg)
Overview: The Simplicity S26 is a bagged upright vacuum engineered for severe allergy sufferers, featuring advanced filtration and surface-specific cleaning modes. Its bagged system prioritizes air purity over convenience.
What Makes It Stand Out: The 4-stage HEPA + charcoal filtration—unique among bagged vacuums—neutralizes odors and captures microscopic allergens. Brushroll activation (on/off via switch) protects hard floors, while automatic height adjustment seamlessly transitions between surfaces.
Value for Money: At a premium price, it’s ideal for those prioritizing air quality over cost savings. Though bags add long-term expense, the S26’s medical-grade filtration justifies investment for allergy-prone households, outperforming cheaper bagless alternatives in air purity.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Unmatched allergen containment, quiet operation, effortless swivel wheels, and exceptional hard-floor care. Weaknesses: Ongoing bag costs, heavier than bagless models, and less convenient for quick cleanups due to bag replacement.
Bottom Line: The top choice for allergy sufferers needing hospital-grade filtration; worth the investment if air quality is non-negotiable, though less practical for pet-heavy homes.
3. Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | Swivel Steering | HEPA Filter | Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Dusting Brush Included | For Carpets & Hard Floors | White/Silver | NV356E
Overview: This Shark Navigator NV356E offers a balanced solution for multi-surface homes, blending Lift-Away convenience with targeted pet-hair tools. Its compact design suits apartments or smaller spaces without sacrificing power.
What Makes It Stand Out: The brushroll shutoff instantly switches from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare-floor mode, preventing debris scatter. Anti-allergen sealing with HEPA traps 99.9% of particles, while the lightweight pod excels on stairs and furniture.
Value for Money: Competitively priced, it delivers Shark’s signature versatility at an accessible cost. The inclusion of a dusting brush (absent in some models) adds value, though it lacks specialized pet tools found in pricier variants.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Smooth surface transitions, quiet operation, easy storage, and effective HEPA filtration. Weaknesses: Smaller dust cup requires frequent emptying, and crevice tool storage is less secure than competitors.
Bottom Line: A smart buy for renters or small-home owners needing reliable, allergy-friendly cleaning; ideal if you prioritize surface adaptability over heavy-duty pet-hair tools.
4. Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll, HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery Tool & Pet Crevice Tool, Perfect for Pets & Multi-Surface, Teal, ZU503AMZ
Overview: The Shark ZU503AMZ targets pet owners with its self-cleaning brushroll and specialized tools, tackling embedded fur across carpets and hard floors. Its teal design and 1,200W motor promise power without clogs.
What Makes It Stand Out: The self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wrap—a major pain point for pet owners—while the pet crevice tool reaches deep into cushions and corners. Lift-Away versatility and HEPA sealing maintain Shark’s allergen-fighting reputation.
Value for Money: Slightly pricier than basic Navigators, but the pet-focused upgrades justify the cost. Outperforms similarly priced rivals in fur pickup, reducing long-term frustration and replacement needs for pet households.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Superior pet-hair removal, tangle-free brushroll, large dust cup, and odor-resistant bin. Weaknesses: Heavy at 15 lbs, and the hose lacks stretch capability compared to model AZ3002.
Bottom Line: The best Shark Navigator for pet owners; invest here if fur cleanup is your top priority—it’s a long-term time-saver despite the weight.
5. Shark Upright Vacuum, Stratos with DuoClean PowerFins, HairPro, Powered Lift-Away, Self-Cleaning Brushroll, & Odor Neutralizer Technology, Navy, AZ3002
Overview: Shark’s Stratos AZ3002 is a high-end powerhouse featuring DuoClean PowerFins for deep carpet cleaning and odor-neutralizing tech. It’s engineered for large homes with mixed flooring and persistent pet odors.
What Makes It Stand Out: DuoClean PowerFins combine soft fins and bristles to lift debris from carpets and hard floors in one pass. Powered Lift-Away adds motorized suction to the detachable pod, while odor neutralizer tech actively combats smells—rare in competitors.
Value for Money: Positioned at the premium end, it excels for large, multi-pet homes. Though costly, its dual-surface efficiency and odor control reduce cleaning time, making it cost-effective versus buying separate vacuums.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Unmatched dual-surface performance, zero hair wrap, motorized lift-away, and effective odor reduction. Weaknesses: Bulky storage footprint, expensive replacement filters, and noise levels exceed 80 dB.
Bottom Line: The ultimate upgrade for large households with pets; worth every penny if you demand top-tier cleaning across all surfaces and struggle with odors.
6. Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa Filter, Anti-Allergen Technology, Swivel Steering, Ideal for Carpet, Stairs, & Bare Floors, with Wide Upholstery & Crevice Tools, Lavender
Overview: The Shark NV352 is a versatile upright vacuum designed for deep cleaning carpets, bare floors, and stairs, featuring advanced allergen control and maneuverability for multi-surface homes.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its Lift-Away pod transforms it into a portable canister for stairs and upholstery, while Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology paired with a HEPA filter traps 99.9% of dust and allergens. Swivel Steering and Brushroll Shutoff enable seamless transitions between carpets and hard floors.
Value for Money: Priced competitively, it outperforms budget models with its dual-function design and hospital-grade filtration, eliminating the need for separate canister vacuums. The included tools add versatility without inflating cost.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Exceptional maneuverability; effective allergen capture; lightweight yet powerful suction; easy pod detachment. Weaknesses: Smaller dust cup requires frequent emptying; lavender scent may irritate sensitive users.
Bottom Line: Ideal for allergy sufferers and pet owners needing a single vacuum for stairs and multiple surfaces; its portability and filtration justify the investment for comprehensive home cleaning.
7. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful Suction, HEPA, Tangle-Free Brush Roll, 39883
Overview: Engineered specifically for pet owners, this Bissell vacuum tackles embedded fur, dander, and allergens on carpets and hard floors with specialized pet-focused technology.
What Makes It Stand Out: The Lift-Off detachable pod offers cordless convenience for stairs and furniture, while Tangle-Free Brush Roll prevents hair wrap. Scatter-Free Technology controls debris on hard floors, and the HEPA Sealed Allergen System traps 95% of allergens.
Value for Money: Slightly pricier than basic models, but its pet-specific features—like the tangle-free roll and scatter control—deliver unmatched efficiency for fur-heavy homes, reducing long-term cleaning time.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Outstanding pet hair removal; lightweight pod for above-floor cleaning; effective scatter prevention on tiles; quiet operation. Weaknesses: Shorter hose limits reach; HEPA filter replacement costs add up.
Bottom Line: A top choice for pet households seeking hassle-free fur management; the Lift-Off system and tangle-free tech make it worth the premium for dedicated pet owners.
8. Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor, PowerSpeed, New Model,Blue,black/New Model
Overview: The Eureka PowerSpeed is a budget-friendly upright vacuum optimized for quick cleanups on carpets and hard floors, emphasizing ease of use and included accessories.
What Makes It Stand Out: Its upgraded Cyclone System handles debris from dust to large particles, while 5 height settings adapt to shag rugs or bare floors without scratches. The onboard storage for tools (crevice, brush, upholstery) and stretch hose enhances versatility.
Value for Money: One of the most affordable options here, offering solid suction and multi-surface performance. The included tools and lightweight build (just 12 lbs) provide excellent utility for small spaces or renters.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Truly lightweight and easy to store; effective cyclone suction; scratch-free wheels; generous accessory set. Weaknesses: Less powerful on thick carpets; plastic build feels less durable; no HEPA filtration.
Bottom Line: Perfect for apartment dwellers or light-duty use; its low cost, portability, and accessory suite make it a smart buy for basic cleaning needs.
9. Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, LED Headlights, Wide Upholstery Tool, Dusting Brush & Crevice Tool, White/Red
Overview: The Shark NV501 is a premium Lift-Away vacuum with professional-grade features for thorough whole-home cleaning, including hidden debris detection and specialized upholstery tools.
What Makes It Stand Out: LED Headlights illuminate dust in dark corners, while the Wide Upholstery Tool efficiently cleans large surfaces like sofas. Advanced Swivel Steering and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology (with HEPA) ensure agility and allergen containment.
Value for Money: Priced higher than entry models, but justifiable for its niche advantages: LED visibility and wide tool save time on deep cleans. The Lift-Away flexibility rivals pricier canister systems.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Superior maneuverability; excellent for spotting debris; wide tool speeds up upholstery cleaning; strong allergen control. Weaknesses: Bulky when assembled; headlights drain battery if cordless mode used; noisy at max power.
Bottom Line: Highly recommended for meticulous cleaners seeking pro-level detail; the LED lights and wide tool justify the cost for allergy sufferers or pet owners with fabric furniture.
10. Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering, Powerful Pet Hair Pick Up, Specialized Pet Tools, Large Capacity Dirt Tank, Easy Empty
Overview: Bissell’s 2252 focuses on pet messes with edge-to-edge cleaning and specialized tools, targeting homes overwhelmed by fur and tracked-in debris.
What Makes It Stand Out: Triple Action Brush Roll aggressively lifts embedded pet hair, while Edge-to-Edge Cleaning captures dirt along baseboards. The large dirt tank and Easy Empty system minimize mess during disposal, and Scatter-Free Technology contains dry pet waste.
Value for Money: Mid-range pricing delivers exceptional pet-performance value. The large capacity reduces emptying frequency, and specialized tools outshine generic vacuums—ideal for multi-pet households.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths: Unmatched edge cleaning; efficient scatter control; easy-empty tank; durable build. Weaknesses: Heavy (18 lbs); swivel head occasionally catches on cords; tools lack storage clips.
Bottom Line: A must-have for pet owners needing reliable edge cleaning and fur pickup; the large tank and specialized features offer robust performance worth every dollar.
Why Premium Upright Vacuums Are Essential for Large Households
Living in a large family environment creates unique cleaning challenges that budget or mid-range vacuums simply aren’t built to handle consistently. The sheer volume of foot traffic, combined with frequent spills, tracked-in debris, and multiple pets, demands equipment that operates at a higher level of performance and resilience. Premium models address these specific pain points head-on.
Understanding the Unique Demands of Family Floors
Family floors endure significantly more wear and tear than those in smaller households. Think constant movement, dropped snacks, pet accidents, and outdoor elements tracked inside after every outing. This isn’t occasional mess; it’s a continuous cycle requiring a machine that can deliver peak performance day after day without faltering. Premium vacuums are constructed to thrive in this environment, not just survive it.
The True Cost of Choosing Cheap
Opting for the lowest-priced vacuum often leads to a hidden, ongoing expense. Frequent breakdowns, clogs that require disassembly, loss of suction necessitating multiple passes, and a short lifespan mean you’ll likely replace a cheap model several times over the lifespan of a single premium unit. The frustration and time wasted dealing with an unreliable machine add significant intangible costs that far outweigh the initial savings of a budget option.
Long-Term Value Over Short-Term Savings
Premium uprights represent an investment in long-term household efficiency. Their superior build quality, extended warranties, and consistent performance translate to years of reliable service. Consider the value: saving 15 minutes per cleaning session adds up to dozens of hours annually reclaimed for your family. The durability means no surprise replacement costs, and the effective cleaning reduces the need for deep cleans or professional services. This is where the “worth the investment” claim becomes tangible reality.
Critical Features That Define a Premium Family Vacuum
Not all vacuums labeled “premium” deliver the specific benefits large families desperately need. It’s crucial to look beyond marketing hype and focus on engineering and features proven to handle heavy-duty, daily use. The right combination makes all the difference in real-world performance and longevity.
Suction Power That Actually Performs
Raw suction numbers (like AW or kPa) matter, but only if the entire airflow path is optimized. Look for models with sealed systems that maintain suction from nozzle to dustbin, preventing leaks that drastically reduce effectiveness. True performance is measured by how well it pulls embedded dirt from carpets and lifts fine debris from hard floors in a single pass – essential when you don’t have time for multiple rounds.
Advanced Filtration for Healthier Homes
With kids, pets, and constant activity, airborne allergens and fine dust are major concerns. A premium vacuum must feature a multi-stage filtration system, ideally including a certified HEPA filter that captures 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This is non-negotiable for trapping dust mites, pollen, and pet dander, preventing them from being blown back into the air you breathe, especially crucial for households with allergies or asthma.
Unmatched Durability and Build Quality
This is paramount. Examine the materials: metal wands and hinges (not plastic), reinforced housing at stress points, and high-quality casters that roll smoothly over transitions without breaking. The brushroll should be sturdy, often with metal end caps, and designed to handle being wrapped by cords or strings without damage. Premium models feel substantial and robust, built to withstand the inevitable bumps and drops in a busy home.
Effortless Maneuverability in Cluttered Spaces
Navigating around toys, furniture legs, and pet obstacles requires exceptional agility. Look for low-profile cleaning heads that fit under sofas and beds, swivel steering for tight turns, and lightweight (yet sturdy) construction. Features like easy-release wands for above-floor cleaning without wrestling the whole machine are vital time-savers when every minute counts.
Specialized Tools for Family-Specific Messes
Generic accessories won’t cut it. Premium models designed for families include tools specifically for common challenges: wide upholstery tools for quick couch cleanups after snack time, motorized pet hair tools that tackle embedded fur on carpets and furniture, crevice tools with stiff bristles for grout lines and baseboards, and often a dedicated hard floor setting or brushroll shutoff to avoid scattering debris.
Beyond the Basics: Smart Features for Family Efficiency
The best premium uprights incorporate thoughtful engineering that directly addresses the frustrations unique to cleaning in a bustling household. These features go beyond raw power to enhance convenience, reduce physical strain, and make maintenance manageable.
Tangle-Free Brushroll Technology
Hair, string, and thread constantly threaten to jam standard brushrolls, requiring frequent, messy disassembly. Premium models combat this with specialized designs: rubber fins instead of bristles, easy-access cleaning ports, automatic shut-off when jammed, or even dual brushrolls where one is optimized for hair removal. This feature alone can save hours of maintenance annually.
Large Capacity & Easy Emptying Systems
Small dustbins mean constant stopping and starting – a major annoyance with large messes. Premium vacuums offer significantly larger capacities (1+ liters). Crucially, they feature true bagless designs with hygienic, one-touch or foot-pedal emptying mechanisms that minimize contact with dust and debris, often with sealed chambers to prevent spillage. No more shaking out bins over the trash can.
Adjustable Height Settings for All Floor Types
Homes with large families rarely have just one flooring type. Seamless transition between thick carpets, low-pile rugs, and bare hard floors is essential. Premium models provide multiple, precise height adjustments (often tool-free) to optimize brushroll contact and suction for each surface, ensuring effective cleaning without damaging delicate floors or leaving residue on carpets.
Low Noise Operation for Peaceful Cleaning
Nobody wants to disturb naps or homework time with a deafening vacuum. Premium uprights invest in sound-dampening technologies – improved motor housings, optimized airflow paths, and specialized brushroll designs – to operate significantly quieter than standard models, making cleaning possible at more convenient times without adding stress.
Extended Cord Reach or Premium Cordless Power
For corded models, a long power cord (30+ feet) minimizes plug changes in large homes. For cordless premium options (though less common for uprights targeting large families), look for swappable batteries and sufficient runtime (60+ minutes on medium power) to handle multiple rooms without recharging. Real-world usable runtime, not just max claims, is key.
Making the Right Investment for Your Family’s Needs
Choosing the optimal premium upright requires careful consideration of your specific household dynamics. It’s not a one-size-fits-all decision; the perfect vacuum aligns precisely with your unique challenges and priorities.
Assessing Your Specific Flooring Mix
Map out your main living areas. Do you have mostly wall-to-wall carpet, or a mix of carpet, area rugs, hardwood, and tile? The prevalence of hard floors makes features like an effective hard floor mode and a brushroll shutoff critical. Thick carpeting demands strong, adjustable suction and a durable brushroll. Be honest about your dominant surfaces to prioritize features.
Evaluating Pet and Allergen Factors
Multiple pets dramatically increase the demand for exceptional pet hair removal tools, tangle-free technology, and top-tier HEPA filtration. If allergies are a concern within the family, filtration becomes the absolute top priority – don’t compromise here. Consider the type and amount of pet hair you deal with daily when weighing the importance of specialized tools.
Considering Physical Ergonomics and Storage
Honesty about who will be using the vacuum most is crucial. Weight, handle height, and ease of pushing matter significantly, especially for frequent use. Also, evaluate your storage space – a bulky vacuum that’s hard to maneuver into a closet becomes another chore. Look for models with onboard tool storage and compact designs that fit neatly in tight spaces.
Understanding Warranty and Support Realities
A long warranty (5+ years on motor, 2+ years overall) signals manufacturer confidence in durability. However, read the fine print: does it cover wear parts like belts? Is in-home service offered, or must you ship it? Strong customer support and accessible replacement parts are vital for minimizing downtime when (not if) something eventually needs attention after years of heavy use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a premium upright vacuum really worth the higher upfront cost for a large family?
Absolutely. The combination of superior durability (lasting 5-10 years vs. 1-3 for budget models), significantly reduced cleaning time per session, lower long-term replacement costs, and better health outcomes through advanced filtration provides substantial value that quickly offsets the initial investment.
How important is HEPA filtration specifically for homes with kids?
Critically important. Children are more susceptible to airborne allergens and pollutants. HEPA filtration captures the microscopic dust mites, pollen, and dander that standard filters recirculate, leading to cleaner indoor air and potentially reducing allergy and asthma triggers in a high-traffic home.
Can a premium upright handle the constant messes of multiple pets and children without constant maintenance?
While no vacuum is entirely maintenance-free, premium models designed for families incorporate tangle-free brushrolls, large easy-empty bins, and durable components specifically to minimize maintenance. Features like accessible brushroll cleaning ports and hygienic emptying systems make upkeep far quicker and less frequent than with standard vacuums.
What’s the biggest mistake families make when choosing a vacuum based on specs alone?
Focusing solely on max suction power (AW/kPa) or dustbin size while ignoring real-world factors like airflow seal integrity, maneuverability in cluttered spaces, noise levels, and the quality of filtration. A vacuum with slightly lower specs but a superior sealed system and HEPA filter will clean your home more effectively and healthily.
Are cordless premium uprights a viable option for very large homes with multiple levels?
Generally less ideal for very large, multi-level family homes due to limited runtime (even premium batteries deplete during extensive cleaning) and often reduced sustained suction compared to corded models. Corded premium uprights offer unlimited runtime and consistent peak power, making them the more reliable choice for substantial square footage.
How do I know if a vacuum’s “tangle-free” claim is genuine?
Look for specific engineering: brushrolls using rubber fins instead of traditional bristles, easily accessible cleaning slots without full disassembly, automatic jam detection with shut-off, or dual brushroll systems where one is dedicated to hair removal. Real-world user reviews from pet owners are the best indicator of actual performance.
Why is a sealed system so crucial, especially with allergies?
An unsealed system leaks dirty air full of dust and allergens back into your home through gaps in the housing, hose, or filters. A truly sealed HEPA system ensures 100% of the air pulled in passes through the filter, capturing allergens instead of redistributing them, which is vital for allergy sufferers in a dusty home.
What should I prioritize more: suction power or filtration?
For most large families, especially those with health concerns, filtration is non-negotiable and should be the top priority. Strong suction is useless if the vacuum just stirs up dust without capturing it. A model with excellent sealed HEPA filtration and adequate (not necessarily max) suction will create a healthier home environment than a high-suction model with poor filtration.
How often should I realistically expect to replace parts like belts or filters on a premium model?
High-quality premium models significantly extend part life. Belts might last 1-2 years with heavy use (vs. months on cheap models), and HEPA filters typically need replacing every 12-18 months. The key is using genuine manufacturer parts and adhering to maintenance schedules – cutting corners here negates the premium investment.
Does a higher price always guarantee better performance for family use?
Not necessarily. Focus on the specific features that address your family’s biggest pain points (e.g., pet hair tools, HEPA, durability) rather than just the price tag. Some moderately priced models excel in key areas, while very expensive ones might prioritize features irrelevant to heavy-duty family cleaning. Research based on your needs, not just cost.
See Also
- 10 Premium Upright Vacuums for Large Households (Worth the Investment)
- 10 Premium Upright Vacuums for Large Homes (Worth the Investment)
- 10 Premium Upright Vacuums for Pet Owners (Worth the Investment) in 2026
- 10 Premium Robot Vacuums for Large Homes (Worth the Investment)
- 10 Premium Corded Canister Vacuums for Deep Carpet Cleaning (Worth the Investment)