Consider this scenario: a family with three children, the eldest recently turned six. A grey sofa has faithfully endured those six years, absorbing and concealing countless spills and mishaps. Parents, pet owners, or anyone who’s hosted a few house parties understands this well. Our furniture often suffers in silence as we address more immediate concerns. But now, we explore a product that promises to restore and rejuvenate these unsung heroes.
Using the Shark Stainstriker cleaning vacuum to refresh carpets, sofas, and mattresses proved to be an extremely gratifying experience. Equally, if not inversely, satisfying was observing the extracted debris. The effluent was far from clear, likely containing remnants best left forgotten. However, after treatment with the Shark Stainstriker, those memories can indeed fade away!
The Machine – Shark Stainstriker
The device is essentially a wet vacuum cleaner, designed to extract liquids and dirt into a collection tank. The system is intuitively designed, with color-coded indicators and markings to minimize user error. Beyond the dirty water tank, two additional tanks accommodate different detergent types. The package includes a generous supply of Oxy Multiplier, intended for undiluted use in its corresponding tank, a testament to the device’s user-friendly design.
A smaller bottle of Deep Clean concentrate is also provided, requiring dilution before use. The optimal application method mirrors the previous step. While the precise distinction between these two solutions requires further clarification, their combined effect is advertised as delivering 20 times greater cleaning efficacy, although the baseline for this comparison remains unspecified. For fresh spills, immediate application is recommended. However, for accumulated grime spanning several years, a twenty-minute pre-treatment period is suggested, ensuring the target surface remains flat during this interval.
The machine includes a variety of specialized nozzles designed for different cleaning tasks. Each nozzle incorporates two interchangeable brushes to suit the specific surface being treated. These include two nozzles of varying widths, a permanently attached narrow nozzle, and a dedicated pet-owner nozzle, which features a separate collection container for particularly unhygienic debris.
In addition to the aforementioned components, the core vacuum unit is included, along with the collection tank and a somewhat short hose, a point we will address further below. Most components feature designated storage locations on the machine, although the nozzles are stored separately. A combination of the medium-sized nozzle and the fixed nozzle proved particularly effective, delivering robust suction and effectively reaching edges while removing residual water not captured by the larger nozzle.
The Process
With the setup complete, we tested the device on a variety of surfaces, including carpets, sofas, and mattress toppers. While all surfaces yielded dirty water, the sofa exhibited the most visually dramatic results. Notably, the Shark Stain Striker revitalized a tufted cotton rug, rendering it noticeably softer and cleaner compared to untreated sections.
After filling the detergent tanks, the initial step involves spraying the target surface. Close proximity is recommended to ensure accurate and even coverage. For stubborn stains, gentle scrubbing with the rubber brush can be beneficial. Following the pre-treatment period (if applicable), vacuuming commences.
Dirty water is immediately drawn into the nozzle, and the collection tank begins to accumulate the extracted contaminants. The process is relatively straightforward. While some physical exertion is required, the satisfaction derived from the cleaning process largely mitigates any discomfort. After vacuuming, allowing the treated surface to dry for several hours, or overnight, is crucial to fully appreciate the results.
The Result – Shark Stainstriker
Initially, we were skeptical, concerned that the device might prove to be a mere gimmick, delivering marginal improvements at best.
However, the results observed upon drying of the treated sofa cushion exceeded our expectations. Detailed visual evidence is provided in the images below and should be enlarged for optimal viewing.
Photo: senses.se
Photo: senses.se
The outcome was undeniably positive, exceeding initial expectations. The accumulated stains vanished, and the fabric exhibited a newfound softness and smoothness, almost as if ironed. The scent was noticeably improved, with the detergent imparting a neutral, fresh aroma, reminiscent of a clean, rather than fragranced, environment. A thoroughly satisfying result!
Lessons learned and things we didn’t quite like
Certain aspects proved less satisfactory. The hose length, in particular, presented a limitation. While a longer hose might impact storage convenience, its absence necessitates maneuvering the entire unit during tasks such as cleaning a large mattress. Reaching all areas effectively, especially when allowing for detergent dwell time, becomes challenging. Even sofa cleaning required frequent repositioning of the vacuum unit.
Noise levels are also a factor. As a vacuum cleaner, a degree of noise is unavoidable; however, the high suction power generates significant sound, potentially warranting the use of noise-reducing headphones. Furthermore, users should anticipate a considerable drying period, making evening cleaning runs impractical in smaller households where residents may already be asleep.
The build quality exhibits a reliance on plastic components in certain areas. The connection between the nozzle and the hose, in particular, lacks a robust feel, raising concerns about long-term durability.
On all nozzles except the dedicated pet tool, the spray mechanism is located on the underside, making precise targeting somewhat difficult, often resulting in overspray.
Conclusion – Shark Stainstriker
A common question arises: Is the Shark Stainstriker a worthwhile investment? Is it a device used once and then relegated to storage? We considered this extensively.
The Shark Stainstriker represents a relatively affordable option. At the time of writing, its price point of 2000 kronor makes it a compelling value. Its utility extends beyond occasional deep cleans, proving useful for addressing accidental spills of ice cream, soda, or wine. While we haven’t tested it specifically on fresh spills, its performance on set-in stains suggests it would perform admirably. The primary drawback lies in its build quality, which, while reflecting the price, raises concerns about longevity.
Ultimately, the Shark Stainstriker delivers on its core promises and proves to be a valuable asset in households with young children or pets. The tufted cotton rug experienced a remarkable transformation. The sofa’s original appearance was largely restored after a single cleaning session. While the Shark Stainstriker has limitations, namely noise and hose length, it remains relatively easy to store.
In conclusion, the Shark Stainstriker is a commendable device, albeit with some reservations regarding its long-term durability. The satisfaction derived from witnessing the removal of ingrained dirt is significant. However, be mindful that a successful cleaning session will highlight any subsequent stains, for better or for worse.
Shark provided review units for this evaluation. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are conducted with a focus on the reader and consumer.
