Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner vs Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial
Updated August 2026 — Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner wins on tank size and ease of use, Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial wins on weight and power cord.
The Hoover SmartWash Pet XL offers advanced features for home cleaning, while the Sanitaire SC679K provides reliable commercial-grade performance at a lower price.
Why Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner is better
Advanced Features
Hoover has automatic cleaning technology.
Capacity
Hoover has a larger tank capacity.
Versatility
Hoover converts to a spot cleaner.
Why Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial is better
Price
Sanitaire is significantly cheaper.
Weight
Sanitaire is lighter and easier to transport.
Commercial Use
Sanitaire is designed for commercial-grade cleaning.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Hoover SmartWash Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner | Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $289.99 | $149.99 |
| Sales Rank | 11205 | 4649 |
| Motor Life | N/A | 500+ hours |
| Self-Cleaning | Yes | No |
| Bag Capacity | N/A | 18 quarts |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Hoover SmartWash Pet XL and Sanitaire SC679K
The Hoover SmartWash Pet XL is designed for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery, while the Sanitaire SC679K is a commercial-grade bagged vacuum. The Hoover is priced at $289.99, making it about 93% more expensive than the Sanitaire, which retails for $149.99. Each machine caters to different cleaning needs and environments, making it crucial to understand their distinct features and benefits.
Cleaning Technology
The Hoover SmartWash Pet XL employs Automatic Cleaning Technology, which automatically senses when to wash and dry carpets, making it as simple as vacuuming. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who may not be familiar with carpet cleaning techniques. In contrast, the Sanitaire SC679K offers commercial-grade cleaning performance with a motor life providing over 500 hours of use. While the Hoover focuses on ease of use for home cleaning, the Sanitaire is designed for durability and longevity in commercial settings.
Capacity and Maintenance
Hoover's SmartWash Pet XL features XL capacity tanks, holding up to 96 ounces, allowing for fewer trips to refill or empty during cleaning sessions. Additionally, it includes a self-cleaning tray to flush out hair and debris, simplifying the maintenance process. On the other hand, the Sanitaire SC679K comes with a large-capacity shake-out bag that holds up to 18 quarts of dirt and debris. This design minimizes interruptions during cleaning but requires users to manually shake out the bag when full. The Hoover may have an edge in convenience, while the Sanitaire is built for extended use without frequent bag changes.
Portability and Design
The Sanitaire SC679K weighs only 12.2 lbs, making it lightweight and easy to transport, which is beneficial for commercial users who need to move the vacuum frequently. The Hoover SmartWash Pet XL, while designed for home use, does not specify its weight, but generally, carpet cleaners tend to be bulkier than upright vacuums. The Sanitaire's design, including a polycarbonate hood, is intended to withstand tough environments, whereas Hoover focuses on user-friendly features that make carpet cleaning less of a chore.
Cleaning Versatility
The Hoover SmartWash Pet XL is highly versatile, converting into a spot cleaner with the included 8-foot hose, allowing users to tackle stairs and upholstery effortlessly. This flexibility makes it suitable for various cleaning tasks beyond carpets. Conversely, the Sanitaire SC679K is primarily focused on commercial carpet cleaning, offering a powerful motor and a durable structure. While it excels in cleaning large areas, it may not be as effective for spot treatments or upholstery, which could limit its versatility in home settings.
Price and Value
The Hoover SmartWash Pet XL is priced at $289.99, which is about 93% more than the Sanitaire SC679K's price of $149.99. This significant price difference could influence potential buyers depending on their budget and cleaning needs. While the Hoover offers advanced features like automatic cleaning and a self-cleaning tray, the Sanitaire provides a reliable, low-cost option for users seeking effective cleaning without the bells and whistles. Evaluating the value of each product depends largely on whether the user prioritizes advanced features or basic functionality.
Sales Performance
In terms of sales performance, the Hoover SmartWash Pet XL holds a bestseller rank of 11,205, indicating a moderate level of popularity among consumers. In comparison, the Sanitaire SC679K has a better sales rank of 4,649, suggesting it is a more popular choice within its category. This difference may reflect the preferences of buyers leaning towards commercial-grade vacuums for their durability and efficiency, especially in professional settings.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the Hoover SmartWash Pet XL and the Sanitaire SC679K ultimately depends on your specific cleaning needs. If you require a machine for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery with modern features, the Hoover is an excellent choice at $289.99. However, if you're looking for a more budget-friendly option that offers reliable commercial-grade performance, the Sanitaire at $149.99 is a strong contender. Both machines have unique advantages, but your decision should be guided by whether you prioritize advanced features or robust, straightforward cleaning capability.

