Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet Cleaner Review and Test

Is the Hoover SmartWash+ actually worth the closet space and the investment for your home? The Hoover SmartWash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner is a top-tier choice for most households because it eliminates the guesswork of manual trigger-pulling by automatically mixing solution and switching between washing and drying. It is the most user-friendly deep cleaner for high-traffic homes and pet owners who need consistent results without a steep learning curve.

1. Hoover SmartWash+ Automatic Carpet Cleaner

If you have ever felt overwhelmed by the various buttons and triggers on a traditional carpet cleaner, this machine was designed specifically for you. The biggest barrier to cleaning carpets is often the fear of over-saturating the floor or mixing the soap incorrectly. This model removes those variables entirely by using motion sensors to determine when to wash and when to dry. When you push the machine forward, it releases the perfect ratio of water and solution; when you pull it back, it automatically stops the water and focuses entirely on suction and heat-assisted drying.

The design is remarkably intuitive, behaving more like a standard upright vacuum than a piece of heavy machinery. It features a dedicated solution tank that stays separate from the clean water, meaning the machine handles the mixing for you. If you finish your cleaning and have solution left over, it stays in the tank for next time rather than being wasted. For those living in smaller homes or apartments where every minute of housework counts, this “set it and forget it” approach to carpet care is a significant advantage.

Performance & Build Quality

The build quality is sturdy for a residential machine, though it relies heavily on plastic components to keep the weight manageable. The FlexForce PowerBrushes are designed to reach deep into carpet fibers without being overly aggressive on delicate rugs. One of the most impressive technical features is the HeatForce technology, which directs warm air toward the floor during the drying stroke. While it won’t make your carpets bone-dry instantly, it significantly cuts down the wait time compared to older models that rely solely on suction.

Real-World Experience

Imagine it is a Sunday afternoon and you notice your high-traffic hallway looks grey and matted. With a traditional cleaner, you would spend ten minutes figuring out the soap-to-water ratio. With the SmartWash+, you simply fill the tanks and go. Owners often mention how much they appreciate the Dry Only button, which allows you to go over the carpet multiple times to extract every drop of moisture. A common complaint, however, is that the dirty water tank can fill up quickly, requiring several trips to the sink during a large room cleaning. Users frequently report that the nozzle is easy to pop off, which is a relief when you need to clear out pet hair or carpet fluff that inevitably gets trapped in the suction path.

Ease of Use & Value for Money

This machine offers excellent value because it reduces the likelihood of user error that can ruin carpets. You aren’t paying for professional-grade industrial power; you are paying for the convenience of automation. It is lightweight enough to carry up stairs without a struggle, and the footprint is comparable to a standard vacuum, making it easy to store in a standard utility closet. For most families, the time saved on “figuring out the machine” justifies the price tag alone.

Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip)

• Best For: People who want a simple, vacuum-like experience and don’t want to mess with triggers or manual mixing.
• Main Features: Automatic wash/dry sensors, HeatForce drying, separate solution tank, removable nozzle.
• Pros: Extremely easy to operate, fast drying times, simple to clean the machine after use.
• Cons: Smallish water tanks, doesn’t have a manual “extra water” mode for stubborn spots.

If you are tired of looking at dingy carpets but dread the complexity of professional gear, this machine provides the simplest path to a cleaner home. Taking care of your floors shouldn’t be a chore you avoid, and this automation ensures you can get the job done in half the time it takes with manual models. Check the current price on Amazon to see if it fits your budget today.

2. Hoover SmartWash PET Complete

Pet owners face a different set of challenges than the average homeowner, and this “PET Complete” version of the SmartWash platform addresses them directly. While the core automation remains the same—pushing forward to wash and pulling back to dry—this model includes a Spot Chaser pre-treat wand. This is a game-changer for those dealing with set-in biological stains or localized “surprises” that a standard pass might not fully lift. The wand is detachable and powered by its own battery, allowing you to spray a concentrated formula on a spot before you even bring the full machine over it.

Beyond the pre-treatment, the brushes are treated with antimicrobial materials to prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria within the machine itself. This is a subtle but vital feature; if you have ever used a carpet cleaner and noticed it smells like a wet dog a week later, you will understand why this matters. The suction power is tuned to handle the extra dander and fine hair that pets shed, ensuring that the water you pull back up is actually carrying the grime away rather than just moving it around.

Performance & Build Quality

The addition of the Spot Chaser wand makes this feel like a more professional kit. The build is slightly more robust to accommodate the extra tool storage on the handle. The PowerSpin Pet Brushrolls are specifically designed to resist hair wraps, which is a common failure point in cheaper machines. While it is a bit heavier than the standard SmartWash+, the added functionality for tough stains makes the extra weight a fair trade-off for pet-centric households.

Real-World Experience

Consider a scenario where an aging pet has an accident in a corner of the living room. Instead of scrubbing on your hands and knees, you pop off the Spot Chaser wand, give it a quick spray, and let the enzymes work. Owners often mention that the wand is surprisingly powerful for such a small attachment. A common complaint is that the wand requires separate AAA batteries, which can be an annoyance if they run out mid-job. However, users frequently report that the antimicrobial brushes really do keep the machine smelling fresher for longer compared to basic models.

Ease of Use & Value for Money

This is arguably the best value in the Hoover lineup for any home with animals or small children. The pre-treat wand replaces the need for a separate spray bottle, streamlining the whole process. While it costs a bit more than the base model, the time saved on deep-set stains is significant. It fits into the same storage footprint as the standard model, making it a smart choice for those who need high performance in a compact form factor.

Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip)

• Best For: Homeowners with pets, toddlers, or frequent localized spills that need pre-treatment.
• Main Features: Detachable Spot Chaser wand, antimicrobial brush rolls, Pet Tool attachment.
• Pros: Targeted cleaning power, odor prevention, excellent hair pick-up.
• Cons: Wand requires batteries, slightly more expensive than the base model.

Stop struggling with old stains that standard cleaners just can’t reach. By investing in a machine designed for the toughest biological messes, you ensure your home stays fresh and your carpets last years longer. Take the first step toward a cleaner home by checking the current price on Amazon.

3. Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro

Are you the type of cleaner who prefers to be in total control? The Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro is the primary rival to the Hoover SmartWash, and it takes a different approach by focusing on raw scrubbing power and manual control. Instead of sensors, this machine uses a traditional trigger system, allowing you to decide exactly where to apply extra solution. For deep-cleaning enthusiasts who want to tackle a heavily soiled area with multiple wet passes before drying, this manual control is a major selling point.

The “Pet Pro” designation brings several clever features to the table, most notably the CleanShot Pretreater. By pressing a foot pedal, you can fire a stream of concentrated solution directly onto a stain from the front of the machine. This allows you to treat spots as you find them without stopping to use a separate wand or spray bottle. It also features a “MAX Clean” mode for the toughest jobs and ஓர் “Express Clean” mode that promises carpets will be dry in about thirty minutes, which is ideal for quick refreshes before guests arrive.

Performance & Build Quality

This machine feels very dense and well-constructed. It uses Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, which feature twelve rows of bristles to agitate carpet fibers. This is more aggressive than the Hoover design, making it better for low-pile carpets and heavily matted areas. The low-profile foot is also a standout feature; it is designed to slide under furniture more easily than the somewhat bulkier Hoover nozzle, saving you from moving every single chair in the room.

Real-World Experience

In a real-life deep clean of a large living room, the Bissell shines because of its versatility. You can go slow and heavy in high-traffic zones, then switch to Express mode for the edges. Owners often mention that the suction is incredibly strong, pulling up water that other machines leave behind. However, a common complaint is that the machine is louder than its competitors and can be quite heavy when the tanks are full. Users frequently report that the manual trigger can cause hand fatigue if you are cleaning an entire house in one session.

Ease of Use & Value for Money

The learning curve is slightly higher than the SmartWash+ because you have to manage the trigger and the different cleaning modes. However, the value lies in the results. If you have old, flat carpets that need a serious “lift,” the aggressive brushes here are worth the extra effort. It is a workhorse that feels like it will last through many years of heavy use, making it a solid long-term investment for the dedicated homeowner.

Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip)

• Best For: People who want maximum scrubbing power and don’t mind a manual trigger.
• Main Features: CleanShot Pretreater, Max/Express modes, Dual PowerBrushes, low-profile foot.
• Pros: Professional-level cleaning, fast dry mode, excellent at reaching under furniture.
• Cons: Heavy, noisy, manual trigger can be tiring for large jobs.

If you want the satisfaction of seeing your carpets transformed by raw power and targeted treatment, this is the machine for you. Don’t let deep-set dirt become a permanent part of your floor when you can blast it away with this professional-grade tool. Check the current price on Amazon and start your deep clean this weekend.

4. Hoover PowerDash Pet

Do you live in an apartment or a home with limited storage space? The Hoover PowerDash Pet is the answer for anyone who needs a carpet cleaner but doesn’t have the room for a full-sized upright. It is roughly half the weight of the SmartWash+, making it easy to carry with one hand. Despite its small stature, it packs a surprising punch, utilizing a high-speed brush roll and the same HeatForce technology found in its larger siblings to speed up the drying process.

This model is perfect for “maintenance cleaning.” It is the machine you pull out when there is a small spill or when you want to refresh a single room. Because it is so lightweight, it is much less of a “production” to get it out of the closet, which means you are likely to clean your carpets more often. It focuses on the basics: it has a clean water tank, a dirty water tank, and a simple trigger. There are no complicated attachments or electronic sensors, which also means there are fewer parts that can break over time.

Performance & Build Quality

The PowerDash Pet uses a Powerspin Pet Brushroll that is quite effective for its size. It doesn’t have the same depth of cleaning as a dual-brush system, but for surface stains and general freshening, it is more than adequate. The build is lightweight plastic, which feels a bit more “budget” than the premium models, but it is surprisingly resilient. The main trade-off is the tank size; because the machine is compact, you will find yourself emptying the dirty water and refilling the clean water quite frequently if you try to do a large room.

Real-World Experience

Imagine you have a studio apartment with one large area rug. The PowerDash Pet can clean that rug in ten minutes and be tucked back into a tiny corner of your coat closet. Owners often mention how easy it is to maneuver around tight furniture and into corners. A common complaint is that the narrow cleaning path means you have to make more passes to cover the same area as a full-sized machine. Users frequently report that the dirty water tank is a bit finicky to snap back into place, but once you get the hang of it, it works reliably.

Ease of Use & Value for Money

This is the “budget king” of the carpet cleaning world. It offers a very low entry price while still providing significantly better results than a handheld spot cleaner. If you only have a few carpeted areas or rugs, spending more on a heavy-duty machine is unnecessary. The PowerDash provides the best “performance-per-square-inch” for small-space dwellers who prioritize easy storage.

Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip)

• Best For: Apartment dwellers, small homes, and people who need a lightweight, easy-to-store option.
• Main Features: Lightweight design, HeatForce technology, compact brush roll.
• Pros: Very affordable, extremely easy to store, great for quick spills.
• Cons: Small tanks require frequent refills, narrow cleaning path, no hose/attachments.

You don’t need a giant machine to get professional-looking results in a small home. If you have been putting off buying a cleaner because of space concerns, this compact powerhouse is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Check the current price on Amazon and reclaim your floor space.

5. Bissell Big Green Machine

What if you want the absolute best results possible and don’t care about the size of the machine? The Bissell Big Green Machine is a consumer version of the industrial units you see for rent at the grocery store. It is built like a tank and designed for one thing: extracting the maximum amount of dirt from the deepest part of your carpet. Unlike the upright models, this machine uses a “pull-back” cleaning motion for its main pass, which allows you to put your body weight into the machine for better suction and agitation.

This is the machine for the “once-a-year deep cleaner” who wants their carpets to look brand new. It features massive water tanks that allow you to clean entire large rooms without a single trip to the sink. The motor is significantly more powerful than anything in the Hoover SmartWash or Bissell Revolution line, which translates to superior water extraction. If you have a large house with wall-to-wall carpeting and several pets, this machine will pay for itself by eliminating the need for professional cleaning services.

Performance & Build Quality

The build quality is industrial. Everything from the thick plastic tanks to the heavy-duty power cord is designed to withstand hours of continuous use. The Extra-Large DirtLifter PowerBrush is significantly wider and more powerful than residential brush rolls. It lacks the “HeatForce” air-blowing feature of the Hoovers, but it makes up for it with massive suction power that removes more water mechanically, leading to surprisingly fast dry times for such a deep clean.

Real-World Experience

Cleaning with the Big Green is an athletic event. It is heavy, and maneuvering it around tight corners is a challenge. However, the results are undeniable. Owners often mention the “gross satisfaction” of seeing the jet-black water being pulled from carpets they thought were clean. A common complaint is the sheer amount of space it takes up in the garage or basement; it is not a “closet” machine. Users frequently report that while it is difficult to move up and down stairs, the long hose attachment allows you to clean an entire flight of stairs while the machine stays at the bottom.

Ease of Use & Value for Money

While the initial cost is high, the value for a large homeowner is immense. One professional whole-house cleaning can cost as much as half the price of this machine. If you use it twice, it has paid for itself. It is “easy” to use in the sense that it is very simple—no fancy sensors or delicate electronics—just pure, raw cleaning power. It is a long-term investment for those who view home maintenance as a serious priority.

Who Should Buy It (and Who Should Skip)

• Best For: Large homes with wall-to-wall carpeting and people who want the absolute best cleaning results.
• Main Features: Large capacity tanks, commercial-grade motor, 9-foot hose, 25-foot cord.
• Pros: Most powerful cleaning available, huge tanks, extremely durable.
• Cons: Very expensive, very heavy, difficult to store in small spaces.

Stop renting machines that other people have used and abused. Own the gold standard of carpet cleaning and give your home the professional treatment it deserves whenever you want. Check the current price on Amazon and invest in the long-term health of your floors.

Comprehensive Buying Guide

Choosing the right carpet cleaner is not just about finding the one with the most suction; it is about finding the one that fits your lifestyle and storage capacity. Many people make the mistake of buying a machine that is too heavy for them to carry up their stairs, or too large to fit in their utility closet. Before you commit to a model, consider the three primary factors: automation vs. control, tank capacity, and brush design.

Automation vs. Manual Control

The biggest decision you will make is whether you want a sensor-driven machine like the Hoover SmartWash+ or a trigger-driven machine like the Bissell Revolution. Automation is perfect for beginners and those who want a fast, mindless cleaning experience. However, if you have specific areas that are significantly dirtier than others, manual control allows you to “scrub” an area with extra water without having to move the whole machine back and forth. Think about your personality: do you want the machine to do the thinking, or do you want to be the one in charge of the solution flow?

The Weight and Storage Reality

A carpet cleaner is only useful if you are willing to pull it out of the closet. If you live in a multi-story home, weight is your most important metric. A machine like the Hoover PowerDash Pet is a dream for stairs and quick spills, while the Bissell Big Green is a literal heavyweight that might require two people to move between floors. Always check the “dry weight” and remember that adding water will add another 10 to 15 pounds to that number.

Maintenance and Post-Clean Care

A common mistake is neglecting the machine after the carpets are done. Look for models with removable nozzles and easy-to-rinse tanks. If you cannot easily remove the hair and gunk from the brushes, the machine will eventually lose suction and start to smell. The SmartWash+ series is particularly good at this, with a nozzle that pops off without tools. If you have pets, antimicrobial brushes are a feature that you will appreciate months down the line when the machine still smells like new.

Budget and Solution Costs

Don’t just look at the price of the machine; look at the cost of the proprietary solutions. Most manufacturers require you to use their specific brand of soap to keep the warranty valid. Some machines use solution more efficiently than others. The Hoover SmartWash+ is generally very efficient because its sensors prevent over-application, which can save you money on “refill days” compared to manual machines where you might be heavy-handed with the trigger.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-wetting the carpet: This leads to mold and odors. If your machine has a “Dry Only” mode, use it twice as much as you think you need to.
• Skipping the vacuum: Always use a regular vacuum before the carpet cleaner. The cleaner is for deep dirt, not for surface crumbs and pet hair which can clog the machine.
• Using too much soap: Excess soap leaves a residue that actually attracts more dirt later. Stick to the machine’s recommended ratios.

3 Questions You Might Ask Next

1. Can I use the Hoover SmartWash+ on hardwood floors?

No, you should not use this machine on hardwood floors. It is designed specifically for carpets and rugs; the brushes are too aggressive for wood, and the water output could damage the finish or cause warping. For hard floors, look for a dedicated “cross-wave” style cleaner or a steam mop.

2. How long does it actually take for carpets to dry?

Dry times vary by humidity and carpet thickness, but typically take 4 to 8 hours. With the Hoover SmartWash+ and its HeatForce technology, you can often get that down to 2 to 4 hours if you use the “Dry Only” mode for several passes. Cracking a window or turning on a ceiling fan will always speed up the process.

3. Is the Hoover SmartWash+ hard to clean after I’m done?

Actually, it is one of the easiest machines to maintain. The front nozzle pops off so you can rinse out the hair and lint, and the brushes are easily accessible. Rinsing the dirty water tank immediately after use is the best way to prevent odors from developing over time.

4. Do I have to use Hoover brand solution?

While Hoover recommends their own solution to ensure the sensors work correctly and to maintain your warranty, many users find that other high-quality carpet cleaning soaps work. However, avoid using thick “DIY” soap mixtures or dish soap, as these can clog the internal mixing valves and cause excessive foaming.

5. Is it too heavy for an older adult to use?

The SmartWash+ weighs about 18 pounds, which is similar to a mid-range upright vacuum. It is manageable for most people on a single floor. However, if you have mobility concerns or need to go up and down stairs frequently, the 12-pound PowerDash Pet might be a safer and more comfortable choice.

6. How often should I deep clean my carpets?

For a standard household, a deep clean every 6 months is plenty. If you have pets or allergies, you may want to do high-traffic areas every 3 months. Over-cleaning can actually wear down carpet fibers faster, so it is best to balance deep cleaning with regular vacuuming.

Which Hoover SmartWash+ Model Is Right For You?

The best choice for the vast majority of people is the Hoover SmartWash+ Automatic because it takes the stress out of the process and delivers consistent results every time. If you have pets that are prone to accidents, the SmartWash PET Complete is worth the slight price increase for that pre-treat wand alone. For those in small apartments, skip the bells and whistles and go for the Hoover PowerDash Pet to save on both money and storage space. If your goal is professional-level restoration of a large home, the Bissell Big Green remains the undisputed champion of deep extraction. No matter which you choose, the best time to start is now—before those small stains become permanent features of your home floor.