Big box store vacuums may struggle on soft carpets for several reasons.

Soft carpet, also known as high-pile or plush carpet, is a type of carpet that has longer, more densely packed fibers compared to regular carpets. In many cases these carpets are not made of traditional nylon fibers. This gives it a plush and luxurious feel underfoot. Soft carpets are popular in bedrooms and living rooms for their comfort and aesthetic appeal.

Big box store vacuums may struggle on soft carpets for several reasons:

1. High Pile and Dense Fibers: Soft carpets have longer and denser fibers, which can make it harder for traditional vacuum cleaners to effectively agitate and lift dirt and debris from the carpet.
2. Strong Suction: Some traditional vacuums have very strong suction, which can cause them to get stuck on soft carpets. The strong suction creates a seal between the vacuum and the carpet, making it difficult to move the vacuum across the surface. Choosing a vacuum with adjustable suction will ensure effective cleaning on your soft carpet but the flexibility to use higher suction in other areas of your home that do not have soft carpet.
3. Brush Roll Design: Many traditional vacuums have brush rolls with stiff bristles designed for shorter carpets. On soft carpets, these bristles can sink too deeply, making it harder to push the vacuum and potentially damaging the carpet fibers.
4. Adjustable Height Settings: Soft carpets require vacuums with adjustable height settings. This allows the vacuum to be raised to a level where it can effectively clean the carpet without getting stuck.
5. Lack of Proper Filtration: Some traditional vacuums may not have the necessary filtration systems to capture fine particles that can be trapped in soft carpet fibers.

To effectively clean soft carpets, it’s recommended to use a vacuum specifically designed for this purpose. These vacuums often come with features like adjustable height settings, specialized brush rolls, adjustable suction controls, and improved filtration systems that cater to the unique needs of soft carpets. When choosing a vacuum for soft carpet, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure it’s suitable for use on this type of flooring.

Visit Best Vac in St. Charles. We carry a large selection of soft carpet compatible vacuum cleaners.