When it comes to keeping your carpets and upholstery spotless, a good carpet cleaner is worth its weight in gold. Two of the most popular options from Vax are the Vax Platinum Smartwash Carpet Cleaner and the Vax SpinScrub Power Plus Carpet Cleaner. Both promise a deep clean, but how do they compare? After personally trying both, here’s my opinion to help you decide which one is right for you.
Vax Platinum Smartwash Carpet Cleaner (CDCW-SWXS)
The Vax Platinum Smartwash Carpet Cleaner initially caught my attention for its Motion Sense Technology, which automatically switches between washing and drying modes. It also boasts impressive claims, such as killing over 99% of bacteria and having a 3.5-litre capacity, making it ideal for households with kids and pets. With 1200W of power, it seemed like the perfect choice for tackling tough stains and maintaining hygiene.
Unfortunately, my experience didn’t live up to expectations. Straight out of the box, the machine wouldn’t dispense water, which made it impossible to use. After troubleshooting with customer support, I was advised to return it to Amazon for a refund. Beyond the functional issue, the build quality felt disappointingly flimsy, especially considering its price point. I’d originally hoped to upgrade from my older, more affordable carpet cleaner (from Lidl), but the Vax Platinum Smartwash didn’t feel like the robust, long-lasting machine I was looking for.
- Pros: Large capacity, bacteria-killing technology, automatic motion sensing.
- Cons: Faulty out of the box, flimsy build quality.
- See details here: Vax Platinum Smartwash Carpet Cleaner
Vax SpinScrub Power Plus Carpet Cleaner (CDCW-SSXA)
After returning the Platinum Smartwash, I opted for the Vax SpinScrub Power Plus Carpet Cleaner, and I’m so glad I did. This machine feels far more robust and reliable, with its SpinScrub technology ensuring a deep and even clean across both carpets and upholstery. The XL capacity makes it ideal for larger spaces, and I love that it delivers quick drying times, so I don’t have to tiptoe around damp carpets for hours.
The cleaning performance is genuinely impressive. It leaves carpets and upholstery looking refreshed, and I’ve found it far more effective than hiring a rental cleaner. The 6-year guarantee is another major plus, giving me peace of mind that this machine is built to last. While it doesn’t have the automatic washing and drying modes of the Platinum Smartwash, the consistent performance, sturdy build, and thorough cleaning make it a clear winner in my books.
- Pros: Sturdy build, effective deep cleaning, XL capacity, quick drying time, 6-year guarantee.
- Cons: Lacks automatic mode switching.
- Buy on Amazon: Vax SpinScrub Power Plus Carpet Cleaner
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Vax Platinum Smartwash | Vax SpinScrub Power Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 1200W | 1200W |
| Capacity | 3.5 litres | XL (larger than 3.5L) |
| Build Quality | Flimsy | Sturdy |
| Motion Sense Technology | Yes | No |
| Bacteria-Killing Claims | Yes, over 99% | Not specified |
| Quick Drying Time | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 6 years |
| Price Range | Higher | Similar, but better value |
My Verdict
If you’re looking for a carpet cleaner that’s reliable, sturdy, and gives professional-grade results, the Vax SpinScrub Power Plus Carpet Cleaner is the clear choice. While the Vax Platinum Smartwash offers innovative features like motion sensing, my experience highlighted issues with reliability and build quality, which ultimately made it a disappointing option.
The SpinScrub Power Plus has more straightforward functionality but excels where it matters most: deep cleaning and durability. If you’re investing in a carpet cleaner to tackle everyday messes and keep your home looking fresh, this model is worth every penny.
Where to Buy
- Vax SpinScrub Power Plus Carpet Cleaner:
- Vax Platinum Smartwash Carpet Cleaner: