Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Carpet Cleaners Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best Splurge
- 3. Best Design
- 4. Best Value
- 5. Best Compact
- 6. Best for Daily Use
- 7. Best Premium
- 8. Best for Beginners
- Carpet Cleaners Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Carpet Cleaners
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
Choosing among the best carpet cleaner brands can be hard. The BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner, OXY Formula, 3952, is our top pick. It outcleans similar lightweight cleaners and is designed for pet messes. For a more affordable option, consider the BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner, 4075. It sacrifices some power for portability, making it easy to use in tight spaces.
Most buyers face a choice between choosing a powerful machine or a compact one. The BISSELL TurboClean offers deep cleaning but is larger. This page will help you understand the best options available.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Carpet Cleaners Reviewed in Detail
Here are our top picks for the best carpet cleaner brands. Each one has been chosen for its unique features and benefits.
1. Best Overall
BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner, OXY Formula, 3952
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. Every purchase makes it possible for BISSELL to continue our support of BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission of saving pets in need.
- OUTCLEANS THE COMPETITIVE LIGHTWEIGHT CARPET CLEANER*. This machine tackles tough everyday & pet messes made on carpet & area rugs in small spaces.
- 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH. Combined with powerful suction, this brush removes ground-in dirt & stains in high traffic areas that vacuums leave behind.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT. Designed for simple storage & to easily maneuver within tight spaces.
- PRO MAX CLEAN + PROTECT. Pair with our most powerful formula with StainProtect Technology to defend against future stains.
The BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner, OXY Formula, 3952 stands out for its powerful cleaning capabilities. This model primarily tackles tough everyday and pet messes. It features strong suction and is effective on carpets and area rugs in small spaces. Compared to other models, its upright design allows for more thorough coverage.
In comparison, the BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner, 4075, offers a lightweight alternative but sacrifices some power. The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe also has impressive features but may not be as compact. While the TurboClean excels in cleaning, its larger size can be a concern for those with limited storage.
One potential downside is that this model may be too heavy for some users. If you’re looking for something easier to move around, a portable cleaner like the Little Green Mini may be a better choice.
Pros
- Strong suction power for effective cleaning
- Designed specifically for pet messes
- Upright design for easy maneuvering
Cons
- Larger size can be hard to store
- May be heavy for some users
- Noisy during operation
Best for: Pet owners needing deep cleaning. Not ideal for: People with limited storage space.
A powerful choice that delivers excellent cleaning for pet messes.
2. Best Splurge
BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner, 4075
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. Every purchase makes it possible for BISSELL to continue our support of BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission of saving pets in need.
- SAVE YOUR SANCTUARY: Tackle spills and pet stains while removing dander, dust, and pollen allergens.
- CLEANS MORE THAN CARPET: Spray, scrub, and suction to remove embedded dirt and stains from upholstery, car interiors, pet beds, and more.
- INCLUDES: 4” Tough Stain Tool with removeable lens, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, and 8oz. BISSELL Little Green Formula.
- EASY STORAGE: Conveniently stores in small spaces – perfect for cabinets, closets, and more.
- LITTLE GREEN FORMULA: Instantly and permanently removes stains and eliminates everyday household odors.
The BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner, 4075 is a compact option that excels in addressing spills and pet stains. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry around the house. This model is suitable for cleaning upholstery and tight spaces, giving it a versatile edge over larger models.
When compared to the BISSELL TurboClean, the Mini focuses on portability. However, it may not provide the same level of deep cleaning as heavier upright models. The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner offers similar portability but is designed for slightly larger areas.
A limitation of this model is its smaller tank size. This means you might have to refill it more often during cleaning sessions. It’s not the best option for extensive carpet cleaning jobs.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Effective at tackling small spills
- Versatile for upholstery and carpets
Cons
- Smaller tank requires frequent refilling
- Not ideal for large cleaning jobs
- Less powerful than upright models
Best for: Quick cleanups and tight spaces. Not ideal for: Large carpet cleaning tasks.
Great for portability and quick stain removal.
3. Best Design
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine, Pet & Upholstery Tools
- PROFESSIONAL-LEVEL STAIN REMOVAL AT HOME: Achieve pro results without the cost with the Hoover PowerScrub. Five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes attack stains from multiple angles while HeatForce technology provides faster drying.
- DEEP CLEAN EVERY SURFACE: Transform dirty carpets, refresh upholstery, and tackle pet accidents anywhere with included 8 ft hose and specialized attachments – ideal for stairs, furniture, car interiors and hard-to-reach corners where messes hide.
- DUAL TANK TECHNOLOGY: Separate clean and dirty water tanks ensure you’re always cleaning with fresh solution and are easy to fill, empty and rinse. Auto Mix creates the perfect ratio of water to cleaning solution for consistent results every time.
- COMPLETE CLEANING KIT INCLUDED: Everything you need in one box – upholstery tool for furniture, pet tool for stubborn messes, crevice tool for tight spaces, 8 ft hose for extended reach, plus sample Hoover cleaning solution to start cleaning immediately.
- PAIR WITH HOOVER CLEANING SOLUTION: For a bright, refreshed home, use the PowerScrub Deluxe with a Hoover carpet shampoo solution. Tackle pet messes with our Pet formula or clean everyday stains with our Everyday solutions.
The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine offers professional-level performance at home. Its five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes clean stains from all angles. HeatForce technology helps speed up drying times, making it efficient for busy households.
This model competes well with the BISSELL TurboClean. Both machines provide strong cleaning capabilities, but the Hoover has a slight edge in drying speed. The BISSELL TurboClean is better suited for those who prioritize deep cleaning performance over drying time.
One drawback is that this model can be heavy and cumbersome for some users. If you have a smaller home or limited storage, this may not be the best fit for you.
Pros
- Five rotating brushes for thorough cleaning
- HeatForce technology for faster drying
- Professional-level stain removal
Cons
- Heavy and cumbersome to move
- May be noisy during operation
- Higher price point than some models
Best for: Those needing deep cleaning and fast drying. Not ideal for: Users with limited storage or mobility.
Offers powerful cleaning with fast drying times.
4. Best Value
BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, 3948
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. Every purchase makes it possible for BISSELL to continue our support of BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission of saving pets in need.
- OUR BEST CLEANING SYSTEM FOR PET MESSES. This powerful compact carpet cleaner tackles pet messes & more all throughout the home.
- VERSATILE TOOLS. Comes with a 7 ft Hose, 4″ Self Cleanout Tool, and a Spraying Crevice tool for multi-mess management.
- 4″ SELF-CLEANOUT TOOL. Quickly tackle stains and clean the tool with just one touch.
- 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH. Combined with its powerful suction, this brush removes ground-in dirt and stains that vacuums leave behind in high traffic areas.
The BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, 3948 is tailored for pet owners. Its compact design makes it easy to work through around the house. This cleaner is effective for both carpet and upholstery, making it a versatile choice.
Compared to the BISSELL TurboClean, this model is specifically designed to tackle pet messes. The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Cleaner is another alternative for pet owners but may lack the same level of cleaning power.
A downside is that its compact size may mean a smaller water tank. This can lead to less cleaning time before needing to refill. If you need to clean large areas, you might want to consider larger models.
Pros
- Compact design for easy maneuvering
- Specially designed for pet messes
- Versatile for upholstery cleaning
Cons
- Smaller tank size requires frequent refills
- Not as powerful as larger models
- May lack features of more expensive options
Best for: Pet owners in need of a compact cleaner. Not ideal for: Large cleaning tasks.
A compact solution for tackling pet messes efficiently.
5. Best Compact
Carbona 2-in-1 Oxy-Powered Carpet Spot Cleaner, 13.5 Fl Oz
- COMBAT CARPET STAINS FAST: Carpets show stains quickly, especially in busy, high-traffic areas. This 2-in-1 Oxy-Powered Carpet Cleaner is made for targeted spot removal and helps tackle even older, set-in-looking stains up to 7 days old, while refreshing carpets so living spaces stay cleaner and ready for everyday life and unexpected messes
- OXY-POWERED DEPENDABLE PERFORMANCE: The oxy-powered, decomposable formula works deep into carpet fibers and helps lift stains and eliminate odors at the source. Designed to act fast, often working in as little as 3 minutes, it delivers noticeable cleaning power when spills, tracked-in dirt & everyday accidents happen
- DUAL-ACTION SPONGE + BRISTLE APPLICATOR: This cleaner features a built-in 2-in-1 applicator for easy, targeted deep clean and stain removal. The sponge helps address surface stains and odors, while the brush bristles reach deeper into carpet fibers to loosen messes. The integrated design gives you control and precision for easy, effortless use
- EASY SPOT CLEANING WITH SIMPLE AFTERCARE: Designed for spot cleaning only, this formula should not be used in a steam cleaner. After treatment, remove excess product with a clean, damp, colorfast cloth or sponge. Vacuuming is optional based on preference, making this an easy solution for routine cleaning in high-use areas throughout the home
- SAFE-USE TIPS: For easier stain removal, treat stains promptly and always test for colorfastness in a hidden area, checking once the stain is dry. Safe on colors when used as directed. Do not use on silk, velvet, Haitian cotton, or fabrics harmed by water. Safe to use around children, keep treated areas undisturbed until dry
The Carbona 2-in-1 Oxy-Powered Carpet Spot Cleaner is designed for quick spot cleaning. Its oxy-powered formula tackles tough stains effectively. This model is best for targeting small stains rather than large carpet areas.
While the BISSELL TurboClean and Hoover PowerScrub focus on deep cleaning, the Carbona cleaner excels at treating specific stains. The Hoover PowerDash Pet also offers a compact solution, but this one is more focused on quick touch-ups.
One limitation is that it is not suitable for whole carpet cleaning tasks. If you have large areas to clean, this product may not meet your needs.
Pros
- Quick and easy stain removal
- Oxy-powered formula for effectiveness
- Compact size for easy storage
Cons
- Not suitable for deep cleaning large areas
- Limited to spot cleaning
- Requires specific treatment for tough stains
Best for: Quick spot cleaning tasks. Not ideal for: Whole carpet cleaning.
Ideal for tackling quick stains with an oxy-powered formula.
6. Best for Daily Use
Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine, Lightweight Design
- DEEP CLEAN PET MESSES IN MINUTES: Get more cleaning power with the Hoover Powerdash Pet, designed to eliminate stubborn pet stains, odors, and everyday spills from carpets and upholstery – perfect for pet owners and busy families.
- VERSATILE WHOLE-HOME CLEANING: Transform dirty carpets, high-traffic areas, tight spaces and area rugs. Antimicrobial PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll keeps the machine free from pet odors.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMPACT: Featuring a lightweight and compact design, this portable carpet cleaner provides efficient cleaning power and easy storage. Ideal for apartments, condos, and RVs.
- HEATFORCE TECHNOLOGY: Built with HeatForce technology for faster drying times, helping you enjoy clean, dry carpets in no time.
- PAIR WITH HOOVER CLEANING SOLUTION: For a bright, refreshed home, use the PowerDash with a Hoover carpet shampoo solution. Tackle pet messes with our Pet formula or clean everyday stains with our Everyday solutions. Sample Solution Included.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine is designed for pet owners. It provides deep cleaning power to tackle stubborn stains. Its lightweight design makes it easy to use across different surfaces.
Compared to the BISSELL TurboClean and Hoover PowerScrub, this model focuses on compactness. While it offers decent cleaning ability, it may not match the deep cleaning of larger models. However, it is more versatile for everyday messes.
A downside is that it may require frequent emptying due to its smaller tank size. This model may not be suitable for extensive cleaning jobs.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Effective for deep cleaning pet stains
- Versatile for whole-home use
Cons
- Smaller tank size requires frequent emptying
- Less powerful than heavier models
- Limited features for tough stains
Best for: Everyday cleaning for pet owners. Not ideal for: Large cleaning tasks or deep stains.
A reliable option for regular cleaning and maintenance.
7. Best Premium
Amazon Basics Carpet Cleaner, Carpet Stain Remover, Fresh Scent, 64 fl oz, Packaging May Vary
- DEEP CLEAN PERFORMANCE: Our carpet cleaner solution penetrates stains, lifts soils, and eliminates odors right at the source
- FORMULA: The hydrogen peroxide in this carpet cleaning solution powerfully tackles the toughest stains and spills to keep carpets clean and fresh
- VERSATILE USAGE: Suitable for use with all popular deep carpet cleaner machines, including rentals
- EPA SAFER CHOICE: Our rug cleaner Safer Choice-certified formula is safer for families, pets, and the environment without compromising on cleaning power
- SIMPLE USE: Mix 2.5 oz of our stain remover per gallon for light stains, or 5 oz per gallon for heavy stains, and follow your machine’s cleaning instructions
- PACKAGING MAY VARY: Packaging may be different than what is shown but item and quality remain the same
The Amazon Basics Carpet Cleaner, Carpet Stain Remover, Fresh Scent is designed for deep cleaning performance. Its hydrogen peroxide formula tackles tough stains effectively. This cleaner works well with most carpet cleaning machines, making it versatile for users.
When compared to the BISSELL TurboClean and Hoover PowerScrub, this product focuses more on stain removal rather than being a full cleaning machine. It is a great supplement to existing cleaners, as it enhances their effectiveness.
One limitation is that it’s designed primarily as a solution rather than a standalone cleaner. Users may need a carpet cleaner machine to use it effectively. It may not suit those looking for a complete cleaning solution.
Pros
- Effective deep cleaning formula
- Fresh scent for a pleasant finish
- Compatible with most machines
Cons
- Not a standalone cleaner
- Requires a carpet cleaner machine
- Limited to stain removal
Best for: Users wanting a strong cleaning solution. Not ideal for: Those needing a full carpet cleaning system.
A powerful carpet cleaner solution for enhancing cleaning efforts.
8. Best for Beginners
Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator with Febreze Carpet Deep Clean Solution, with StainProtect Technology, for use in leading upright carpet cleaners, 48oz,…
- OUR BEST FORMULA FOR TOUGH PET MESSES: Removes embedded dirt & stains, eliminates odors and protects against future stains.
- PERMANENTLY REMOVES TOUGH STAINS WITH OXY: Breaks down stains like urine, blood, vomit, mud, and wine.
- FRESH ODOR REMOVAL WITH FEBREZE: Cleans and refreshes with a light breeze-dried laundry scent.
- FOR USE IN: BISSELL and other leading deep carpet cleaning machines when used as directed.
- RESIST FUTURE MESSES WITH STAINPROTECT TECHNOLOGY: Forms a protective barrier on carpet fibers to make cleaning faster and easier.
The Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator is excellent for pet owners. Its OXY formula effectively removes tough stains and odors. This cleaner is designed for use in leading upright carpet cleaners, making it versatile for different brands.
While the BISSELL TurboClean is a full carpet cleaner, the PET PRO OXY focuses on treating specific messes. Compared to other products like the Hoover PowerScrub, it may lack overall cleaning power but excels at odor removal.
One drawback is that it requires an upright cleaner to be effective. This means it may not fit users looking for a simple solution for quick messes.
Pros
- Removes odors and tough stains effectively
- OXY technology for deep cleaning
- Compatible with various machines
Cons
- Requires an upright cleaner
- Not suitable for quick spot cleaning
- Limited versatility
Best for: Pet owners needing effective odor removal. Not ideal for: Users wanting a simple or portable solution.
Exceptional for tackling stubborn pet stains and odors.
Carpet Cleaners Compared Side by Side
This comparison table shows the best carpet cleaner brands. Each column includes details like the type of cleaning, special features, and who each model suits best. If you’re searching for the best carpet cleaner brands, this table will help you compare.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner | Best Overall | BISSELL | $99.99 | Check |
| 2 | BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner | Best Splurge | BISSELL | $79.99 | Check |
| 3 | Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine | Best Design | Hoover | $169.99 | Check |
| 4 | BISSELL TurboClean PET | Best Value | BISSELL | $124.99 | Check |
| 5 | Carbona 2-in-1 Oxy-Powered Carpet Spot Cleaner | Best Compact | Carbona | $10.99 | Check |
| 6 | Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine | Best for Daily Use | Hoover | $109.99 | Check |
| 7 | Amazon Basics Carpet Cleaner | Best Premium | Amazon.com LLC | $12.21 | Check |
| 8 | Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator with Febreze Carpet… | Best for Beginners | BISSELL Homecare, Inc. | $23.99 | Check |
| 9 | BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner | — | BISSELL | $94.99 | Check |
| 10 | BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner | — | Bissell | $209.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Carpet Cleaners
Cleaning Power
Look for a carpet cleaner with strong suction power and cleaning brushes. Aim for at least 5 amps of power. This will ensure effective removal of dirt and stains. A model with multiple brushes can clean better as it attacks stains from different angles.
Portable vs. Upright
Decide if you want a portable or an upright cleaner. Portable models are lighter and easier to move. They are great for small spills and tight spots. Upright models usually have more power for deep cleaning large areas.
Pet-Friendly Features
If you have pets, choose a cleaner designed for pet messes. Look for features like stronger suction and special tools for hair. Some cleaners have built-in odor eliminators to freshen your space, which can be very helpful.
Tank Size
Check the tank size for both clean and dirty water. A larger tank means you can clean more before needing to empty it. Aim for at least 1 gallon to handle bigger jobs more easily.
Weight
Consider the weight of the carpet cleaner. Heavier models may clean deeper but can be harder to move around. Look for something under 20 pounds if you need to carry it often.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered product information from leading retailers and manufacturer websites. Reviews from users helped us understand real-world performance. We looked specifically at carpet cleaners suitable for homes with pets.
How we built this shortlist
This shortlist includes products that meet specific cleaning needs. We examined over 30 models, focusing on user rating, features, and cleaning ability. The top picks were selected based on a combination of these factors.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded models lacking strong reviews or those with unclear specifications. Any product that did not clearly show effectiveness against pet stains was also removed. Our focus was on practical cleaners for everyday use.
What we did not do
We did not test the cleaners by hand or take lab measurements. Information is based solely on available data and user reviews. No scores were created for the products.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly. As new products are released, or existing ones are improved, we will ensure our information remains current. We aim to keep our recommendations relevant for buyers.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best carpet cleaner brands?
Some of the best carpet cleaner brands include BISSELL and Hoover. They offer various models suited for different needs, such as pet owners or those requiring compact options.
How do I clean carpets with a carpet cleaner?
First, vacuum your carpet to remove loose dirt. Next, fill the cleaner’s tank with water and solution. Use the machine to clean small sections, going over tough stains several times if needed.
Can I use carpet cleaner on upholstery?
Yes, many carpet cleaners can also be used on upholstery. Check the manual to ensure compatibility. Some models even come with special tools for cleaning furniture.
How often should I clean my carpets?
It’s best to clean your carpets every 6 to 12 months. If you have pets or kids, consider more frequent cleanings to maintain freshness.
What should I look for in a carpet cleaner?
Look for strong suction power, tank size, and whether it has special features for pet stains. Consider if you need a portable or upright model based on your cleaning needs.
What to look for
Suction Power
Suction power is key to effective cleaning. Aim for models with at least 5 amps of power. This ensures better dirt removal and faster drying times. Strong suction can lift stubborn stains that lower-powered models may leave behind.
Weight and Portability
Consider how often you’ll need to move the carpet cleaner. If you have stairs or tight spaces, a lightweight model is best. Look for options under 20 pounds to make maneuvering easier. Portable models are ideal for quick cleanups.
Tank Capacity
The size of the clean and dirty water tanks matters. A larger tank means less frequent trips to refill or empty. Aim for at least 1 gallon for significant cleaning jobs. Smaller tanks may require more interruptions, which can be frustrating.
Special Features
Look for features that match your needs. Pet owners may want models with pet hair tools or odor eliminators. Some cleaners also have heated drying options. These features can greatly improve the cleaning experience.
Durability
Choose a carpet cleaner that’s built to last. Check for materials used in construction and user reviews regarding durability. A higher quality cleaner will save you money in the long run. Look for warranties that back the product’s reliability.
Shopping around? We have 45 more carpet cleaner guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- ENERGY STAR clothes washers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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