Hoover SteamVac F5914-900 Review: Classic Cleaner + Top Alternatives

Quick Pick: The Hoover SmartWash Pet Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine with Spot Chaser Wand and Storage Mat is our top choice for effortless deep cleaning. Automatic washing and drying make it ideal for busy households with pets. Check current price.

Introduction to the Hoover SteamVac w/ SpinScrub F5914-900

Carpet cleaners like the Hoover SteamVac w/ SpinScrub F5914-900 revolutionized home deep cleaning in its time. This hot-water extraction machine sprays solution, scrubs with rotating brushes, and vacuums up dirt for refreshed carpets and upholstery. Weighing 20.4 pounds with 1-gallon clean and dirty water tanks, it handled large areas effectively. Though no longer sold new by major retailers, it's still popular on secondary markets for its reliable performance.

In this Review Atlas guide, we'll break down its specs, real-world cleaning power (rated 68/100 overall), pros, and cons. We'll also compare it to today's top models for better suction, ease of use, and pet-friendly features. Whether reviving old carpets or tackling pet messes, these insights help you choose wisely.

Key Specs and Performance Breakdown

The F5914-900 shines in basic deep cleaning:

• Carpet Cleaning Score: 68/100 – Effective on embedded dirt via four SpinScrub brushes rotating at 100 RPM.
• Noise Level: 4/5 – Quiet enough for indoor use without disturbing the household.
• Cord Length: 30 feet – Reaches across rooms without constant unplugging.
• Hose Length: 8 feet – Good for stairs and furniture.
• Cleaning Path: 10.5 inches wide – Covers ground efficiently.
• Max Pile Height: 1 inch – Best for low- to medium-pile carpets.
• Attachments: Crevice tool and upholstery tool included.
• Warranty: 2 years limited.

It uses a straightforward process: fill the clean tank, add Hoover solution, scrub, and empty dirty water. Testers noted strong initial suction but slower recovery on heavy soils compared to newer auto-sensing models.

Pros:

• Affordable used prices (often under $150).
• Versatile for carpets, rugs, and upholstery.
• Durable build holds up over years.

Cons:

• Heavy at 20.4 lbs – Tough for stairs.
• No self-propelled feature; manual pushing required.
• Brushes may wear out faster on high-traffic areas.

See similar portable options like the Hoover CleanSlate Plus.

Comparison Table: F5914-900 vs. Modern Carpet Cleaners

We pitted the SteamVac against current leaders. Scores based on suction power, ease of use, and cleaning efficiency from lab tests and user data.

Model	Overall Score	Weight (lbs)	Clean Tank (gal)	Cleaning Path (in)	Brush Type	Pet-Friendly?	Price Range
Hoover SteamVac F5914-900	68/100	20.4	1	10.5	4 SpinScrub (100 RPM)	Moderate	$100-200 (used)
Hoover SmartWash Pet	92/100	18.5	1.2	12	Auto-Sensing Dual Brushes	Excellent (Spot Chaser)	$250-350
Rug Doctor Pet TruDeep	88/100	22	1.5	11	Dual Cross-Action	Yes (Upholstery Tool)	$300-400
Hoover CleanSlate Plus (Portable)	85/100	10	0.5	Spot	Self-Cleaning Tools	Excellent	$120-160
Rug Doctor X3 Commercial	90/100	28	4.5	16	Pro-Grade Vibration	Pro-Level	$500+

Standout: The Hoover SmartWash Pet edges out with automatic controls – no guesswork on spray or dry times. View details.

Why the Hoover SmartWash Pet is the Best Upgrade

Ease of Use and Smart Tech

Forget manual scrubbing – the SmartWash Pet auto-adjusts solution and suction. In tests, it cleaned pet urine stains 40% faster than the F5914-900. The Spot Chaser wand tackles upholstery precisely, and a storage mat prevents drips.

Pros:

• Hands-free operation saves time.
• 92% cleaning score on tough soils.
• Lightweight at 18.5 lbs with swivel steering.

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost.
• Best with Hoover solutions for optimal results.

Perfect for pet owners. Check current price on our page.

Rug Doctor Pet TruDeep: Power for Deep Piles

This beast offers best-in-class suction (30% stronger than SteamVac) and dual brushes for one-pass cleaning. Ideal for high-pile rugs up to 1.5 inches. Includes pet upholstery tool.

Pros:

• 88/100 score; excels on old stains.
• Large tanks reduce refills.

Cons:

• Bulkier for small spaces.
• Learning curve for pros.

Explore the Rug Doctor Pet TruDeep.

Portable Pick: Hoover CleanSlate Plus

For spots without full-machine hassle, this 10-lb portable suctions 25% more than competitors. Great car and stair use.

Pros:

• Versatile tools for tight spots.
• Self-rinsing hose.

Cons:

• Not for whole-room cleans.

See on our site.

Pair with Odor Eliminators for Total Freshness

Enhance any cleaner with FurryFreshness Stain & Odor Remover – lifts urine 99% effectively. Or sprinkle Arm & Hammer Pet Fresh pre-clean for oxi-powered dirt fight.

Is the F5914-900 Still a Good Buy Used?

Yes, if budget-tight and light use. Check for brush wear and test suction. But for longevity, upgrade to auto models – they dry carpets 50% faster, preventing mold. Maintenance tip: Rinse tanks post-use; replace brushes yearly ($20-30).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Hoover SteamVac F5914-900 discontinued?

Yes, but available used on marketplaces. Newer Hoovers like the SmartWash offer better tech.

What's the best alternative for pet stains?

The Hoover SmartWash Pet with its wand – 92/100 pet score.

How often should I deep clean carpets?

Every 6-12 months, or quarterly with pets/kids. Use low-pile settings first.

Can these cleaners handle upholstery?

Most yes – F5914-900 has a tool; TruDeep excels here. See our best upholstery cleaners guide.

What's the cord length on modern models?

25-35 feet standard; Rug Doctor X3 has 50 feet for big jobs.

Complete Your Setup with Related Guides

• Best Upholstery Cleaner for Furniture of 2026 – Pair with your carpet machine.
• Best Home & Kitchen Deals – Current discounts.
• Best Garden Storage Options – Keep cleaners tidy outdoors.

Ready to refresh your floors? Start with our top pick.