Shark has unveiled the CarpetXpert HairPro Pet with StainStriker, the latest model in its CarpetXpert carpet cleaner series. Designed specifically for tackling pet related soils as well as lifting pet hair, this upright carpet cleaner comes with specialized attachments and features a self-cleaning function that removes hair and debris from inside the machine after each use.
The Shark CarpetXpert EX301 Carpet Cleaner is Shark’s flagship model in its CarpetXpert lineup and offers strong performance along with several convenience-focused features. Pros include exceptional stain removal—earning the best score recorded in testing—and the StainStriker system, which mixes an undiluted OXY solution when using the hose for stronger spot cleaning. It also has a built-in spot and stain hose for quick above-floor cleaning, an onboard hose self-cleaning feature that flushes the system after use, and HairPro technology that directs collected hair into a cage to prevent clogs and tangles. The EX301 comes with numerous attachments, including a reversible 3.5-inch Stain Eliminator, pet tools, and a hair extractor tool, while remaining relatively lightweight at under 19 lbs with good ergonomics. In testing, it ranked #1 on the Vacuum Wars Top 5 Carpet Cleaners list thanks to its overall performance. Cons include a smaller 0.6-gallon water tank that requires more frequent refilling, a below-average 6.5-ft hose, a 20-ft power cord that may require outlet changes between rooms, and a higher-than-average price compared with many carpet cleaners. See additional info
Price as of April 26, 2026
Water Management: 2 Tanks | Auto Dispenser | 2 Cleaning Modes
Cleaning Performance: Cleans in Both Directions | Easy Access to Brush Roll | Above-Floor Cleaning
Tools & User Convenience: Handheld Hose
Attachments: Stain Eliminator, Mini Stain Eliminator, Pet Mess Extractor, Pet Hair Extractor
| Scores | Shark CarpetXpert EX301 | Average Carpet Cleaner Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 76.88 | 52.51 |
| Stain Test Score | 90.5 | 83.50 |
| Specs | Shark CarpetXpert EX301 |
|---|---|
| Weight | 18.1 lbs |
| Tank Capacity | 0.6 Gallon |
| Cord Length | 20 ft |
| Hose Length | 6.5 ft |
| Cleaning Path Width | 10 in |
| In the Box*: Stain Eliminator, Mini Stain Eliminator, Pet Mess Extractor, Hair Extractor, 12oz. Deep Clean Pet Formula, 16oz. OXY Multiplier Formula, and Storage Tray | |
CarpetXpert Technology
This model features Shark’s CarpetXpert technology, combining a high-speed brush roll, a PowerSpray high-pressure spray, and powerful suction. The system is built to remove dirt, grime, and embedded debris while reducing drying times.
Pet Hair Removal
Additionally, the HairPro Pet feature focuses on pet hair removal, which Shark claims will capture up to three times more pet hair than competitive models. The collected hair is funneled into a separate hair cage in the dirty water tank for no-touch disposal. The HairPro Pet is designed to prevent clogs, hair wraps, and other interruptions in order to ensure a consistent, uninterrupted cleaning process.
Best Shark Carpet Cleaner – See Vacuum Wars’ always up-to-date rankings of the best Shark CarpetXpert models we’ve tested.
Handheld Spot Cleaning
The CarpetXpert HairPro Pet is equipped with an on-board hose to extend the cleaning range to reach areas like stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach corners. It comes with four attachments specifically designed to tackle pet stains and hair more effectively than general-purpose cleaning tools – the Stain Eliminator, Mini Stain Eliminator, Pet Mess Extractor and Pet Hair Extractor.
The CarpetXpert HairPro Pet is also equipped with an odor elimination feature to address the most common sources of household odors, including those from pet urine and smoke.
Self-Cleaning Functionality
The CarpetXpert HairPro Pet includes a “Rinse & Go” self-cleaning feature. This system automatically cycles water and cleaning solution through the hose and tool system, removing the need for additional attachments during the cleaning process.
If Vacuum Wars reviews this product, we will make our findings available in the Carpet Cleaner reviews area of this website.
Shark CarpetXpert HairPro Pet EX301
