Looking for a heavy-duty steam vacuum that won't break the bank? Check out the Eureka Atlantis Upright Steam Vacuum 2591A. Priced at less than $150, the Eureka Atlantis is a solid performer.

The Eureka Atlantis features a three-tank system. There is a tank each for clean water, shampoo/solution and dirty water. Each of the tanks, although not large, are easy to remove, fill and reposition. Plus, one of the features we always prefer on a steam vacuum is a clean-water rinse, and the Eureka Atlantis has a clean water tank. We also like the ability to adjust the amount of cleaning solution the vacuum releases. This can be done with the push of a button, which is a nice convenience feature. Like many new models, the Eureka Atlantis has a view-through hood to see how much water/solution is being extracted from carpets. Unlike some other models, however, the Eureka Atlantis' view-through hood is easy to release. This is important because it sometimes becomes necessary to clear carpet fibers, pet hair and other debris from the hood. Failing to remove this debris can make the vacuum lose suction.

The Eureka Atlantis has brushes located on the extractor head, and they can be removed for cleaning if they become clogged with debris. We like the ability to turn the brushes off, thanks to a well-positioned switch on the vacuum's handle. The brushes rotate, cleaning multiple sides of carpet fibers, and this seems to aid in the steam vacuum's overall performance. It works well, removing even set-in stains, but falls short when it comes to bare floor cleaning. We blame the attachments for this shortcoming, so if you are looking for a carpet cleaner rather than a multipurpose floor cleaner, the Eureka Atlantis is still a good bet. In addition to the bare floor attachments, the Eureka Atlantis has an upholstery attachment, extension hose and other accessories. These accessories can be stored in a separate caddy that comes with the vacuum.

We discovered that the Eureka Atlantis is one of the most compact heavyweight steam cleaners we've encountered. Thanks to a folding handle, it can easily store in a closet or utility room without taking up much room. Our only complaint is that the Eureka Atlantis seems to leave carpets damper than we expected. Even when adjusting the amount of cleaning solution released, it took longer for carpets to dry than we would have liked. Fine-tuning this system may take some time, but sticking with it results in dryer, cleaner carpets.


Pros: Price, compact design
Cons: Leaves carpets wetter than expected

Warranty
1 year, limited