Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Carpet Shampooers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for the Money
- 3. Best for Daily Use
- 4. Best Value
- 5. Best Heavy-Duty
- 6. Best Budget
- 7. Best Design
- 8. Best Premium
- Carpet Shampooers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Carpet Shampooers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
You want the best carpet shampooer for the money. The BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner is our top choice. It is designed to tackle tough messes on carpets and area rugs. For those wanting to save some money, the BISSELL TurboClean PET is a great pick as well. However, you will lose some cleaning power compared to the TurboClean model.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Carpet Shampooers Reviewed in Detail
Here are some of the best options available for carpet shampooers.
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 is a powerful choice for anyone looking for the best carpet shampooer for the money. It outcleans many other lightweight carpet cleaners, making it great for everyday messes and pet stains. The TurboClean has a compact design and is easy to maneuver in tight spaces, which is a plus for small homes. Compared to the competition, it offers strong cleaning power without sacrificing portability. However, its smaller tank size means you may need to refill it more often during larger cleaning jobs.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design for easier handling.
- Strong cleaning power to tackle tough stains.
- Easy to use in small spaces.
Cons
- Smaller tank size requires more frequent refills.
- May not perform as well on larger areas.
Best for: Homes needing effective everyday cleaning. Not ideal for: Large spaces requiring long cleaning sessions.
Ideal for quick cleanups while maintaining strong cleaning performance.
2. Best for the Money
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 is an excellent choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing quality. It is specially designed for pet messes, making it a reliable option for pet owners. This model includes versatile tools that enhance its cleaning capabilities. It also matches up well against other affordable options like the Hoover PowerDash. However, it may lack some of the advanced features available in pricier models. This model’s emphasis on pet cleaning does make it less suitable for those without pets.
Pros
- Versatile attachments for various cleaning tasks.
- Designed specifically for tough pet messes.
- Compact design for easy storage.
Cons
- Not as powerful as higher-end models.
- Limited features compared to pricier options.
Best for: Pet owners seeking a budget-friendly option. Not ideal for: Users wanting advanced cleaning features.
A great affordable choice for pet messes, though it lacks some features of more expensive models.
3. Best for Daily Use
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 is built to provide professional-level stain removal at home. With five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes, it effectively cleans carpets from multiple angles. This model also features HeatForce technology for quicker drying times. When compared to BISSELL models, it offers a sturdy cleaning system but may be heavier and bulkier to maneuver. The only downside is that its larger size can make it less convenient for tight spaces or stairs.
Pros
- Five SpinScrub brushes for deep cleaning.
- HeatForce technology for faster drying.
- Effective on various surfaces including upholstery.
Cons
- Heavier than many competitors.
- May be difficult to use in tight spaces.
Best for: Users needing powerful cleaning for large areas. Not ideal for: Those with limited storage space or needing lightweight appliances.
Great for deep cleaning, especially in larger areas, but less agile than smaller models.
4. Best Value
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 quick cleaning. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry and handle. This model excels at removing stubborn pet stains and odors in minutes. Compared to larger models, it is more convenient for daily use but sacrifices some deep cleaning capabilities. Its main limitation is that, although it cleans well, it may not handle heavy-duty tasks as effectively as larger machines.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Quickly removes pet stains and odors.
- Versatile for different cleaning tasks.
Cons
- Not as powerful as larger models.
- May struggle with tough, set-in stains.
Best for: Busy pet owners needing quick clean-ups. Not ideal for: Deep cleaning tasks requiring heavy-duty equipment.
Perfect for quick clean-ups but lacks the power for deep stains.
5. Best Heavy-Duty
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 is suitable for smaller spills and stains. Its portable design makes it easy to use around the home. This model is good for cleaning car interiors and upholstery as well. However, it lacks the deep cleaning power of larger models like the BISSELL TurboClean. This makes it less effective for widespread carpet cleaning jobs. Choose this lightweight option if you mainly deal with small messes.
Pros
- Compact size allows for easy portability.
- Effective for small spills and stains.
- Ideal for upholstery and car cleaning.
Cons
- Limited cleaning power for large areas.
- Not suitable for heavy-duty stains.
Best for: Users needing a portable cleaner for minor spills. Not ideal for: Large carpet areas or tough stains.
Great for small messes but not suitable for larger cleaning tasks.
6. Best Budget
BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746
- CLEAN MORE CARPET TO SAVE TIME. This machine is designed to save cleaning time and help you get back to your everyday life faster.
- 10” CLEAN PATH. Gives you wide cleaning coverage with a powerful and refreshed clean path.
- ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING FOR HARD TO REACH AREAS. Take on baseboards, stairs, upholstery, pet beds and more with the 3” Tough Stain Tool and Spraying Crevice Tool.
- FEWER REFILLS WHILE CLEANING. 1 gallon clean tank means fewer trips to the sink.
- REMOVE TOUGH PET STAINS AND DANDER ALLERGENS. 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush works with included PRO MAX Clean and Protect formula with StainProtect Technology and bonus Pet Stain and Odor + Antibacterial Formula.
The BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner is built for larger cleanups. It offers a 10-inch cleaning path, which allows for faster coverage. This model is great for tackling pet hair and messes in bigger spaces. Compared to other picks, it shines in deep cleaning but may be heavier and bulkier. Its limitation lies in storage and maneuverability in tight spots due to its size, making it less ideal for smaller homes.
Pros
- 10-inch cleaning path for quicker coverage.
- Strong cleaning ability for large areas.
- Great for pet owners dealing with hair.
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than some competitors.
- May be difficult to store in small spaces.
Best for: Large homes with pets needing effective cleaning. Not ideal for: Smaller spaces where compact models work better.
Excellent for larger homes but may not fit in smaller areas easily.
7. Best Design
BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner, 3588F
- PROFESSIONAL DEEP CLEANING FOR PET MESSES: Removes the toughest pet stains & odors.
- ATTACKS SPOTS & STAINS: The CleanShot Pretreater with OXY permanently removes pet stains and eliminates tough odors like cat urine and even skunk. StainProtect Technology prevents future stains.
- FRESHSTART ODOR PROTECTION: Continuously helps prevent odors & maintain freshness in your machine with antimicrobial brush rolls and a FreshStart Dirt Tank.
- MULTIPLE WAYS TO CLEAN: Get professional results in MAX Clean Mode, or leave carpets dry in about 30 minutes in Express Clean Mode1
- 2-IN-1 PET UPHOLSTERY TOOL, 3” TOUGH STAIN TOOL, & 8FT HOSE: Remove wet & dry pet hair or tough embedded stains from furniture, pet beds, stairs, & more!
- DUAL DIRTLIFTER POWERBRUSHES: Double brush rolls for 2X scrubbing action to remove deep-down embedded dirt and stains.
- EZ 1PC REMOVABLE BRUSH ROLL COVER: Easily clean the Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes with the removable one-piece brush roll cover.
- TURBOSTENGTH MOTOR TECHNOLOGY. Delivers a powerful suction and a quiet clean.
- FORMULAS INCLUDED: BISSELL PRO MAX Clean + Protect Formula removes stains & eliminates odors with StainProtect Technology, and BISSELL Pet Pro Oxy Urine Eliminator uses the power of OXY to remove pet stains & odors.
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner is designed for deep cleaning tough pet stains. It has a CleanShot Pretreater that targets specific spots for effective removal. This model compares well to others like the Hoover PowerScrub in cleaning capability. However, it has a steeper learning curve due to its advanced features. Users may find it less intuitive at first, which can be a drawback for some.
Pros
- Deep cleaning for tough pet stains.
- CleanShot Pretreater targets stains effectively.
- Includes features for odor protection.
Cons
- May require some time to learn features.
- Heavier than simpler models.
Best for: Pet owners needing specific stain removal. Not ideal for: Users wanting a straightforward cleaning experience.
Advanced features for tough stains but may overwhelm some users.
8. Best Premium
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner, 1400B
- AMERICA’S #1 BRAND IN PORTABLE DEEP CLEANING: Trusted by over 7 million households.
- TAKE THE STRESS OUT OF MESS: Scientifically proven to lift and remove 100+ common messes and stains.
- ULTRA-POWERFUL TRIPLE ACTION FORMULA: Permanently removes stains and powerfully eliminates odors for “like new” results.
- LARGE 48OZ. CLEAN WATER TANK: Clean more, uninterrupted, with large capacity clean water tank.
- EASY STAIN REMOVAL: Just spray, scrub & suction.
- DON’T SPREAD THE MESS WITH PAPER TOWEL: Deep clean stains and odors beneath the surface.
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS: BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner is a versatile option for various cleaning tasks. It is America’s top brand in portable deep cleaning, making it reliable for smaller jobs. This model is great for light stains but not designed for heavy-duty carpet cleaning, unlike the TurboClean models. Its main limitation is in its capacity, as it may not be sufficient for larger areas and deep cleaning needs.
Pros
- Trusted brand with a solid reputation.
- Effective for a variety of small messes.
- Portable design enhances usability.
Cons
- Limited cleaning power for larger areas.
- Not ideal for heavy-duty tasks.
Best for: Quick clean-ups and light stains. Not ideal for: Major carpet cleaning jobs.
Excellent for minor tasks but not suitable for larger cleaning projects.
Carpet Shampooers Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each carpet shampooer. The columns cover the model, weight, tank size, and other specs. Use this information to find the best carpet shampooer for the money that fits your cleaning needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner | Best Overall | BISSELL | $99.99 | Check |
| 2 | BISSELL TurboClean PET | Best for the Money | BISSELL | $124.99 | Check |
| 3 | Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine | Best for Daily Use | Hoover | $169.99 | Check |
| 4 | Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine | Best Value | Hoover | $109.99 | Check |
| 5 | BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner | Best Heavy-Duty | BISSELL | $79.99 | Check |
| 6 | BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner | Best Budget | BISSELL | $159.99 | Check |
| 7 | BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner | Best Design | Bissell | $209.99 | Check |
| 8 | BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner | Best Premium | BISSELL | $94.99 | Check |
| 9 | Hoover PowerDash Pet+ Compact Carpet Cleaner | — | Hoover | $119.99 | Check |
| 10 | Shark CarpetXpert HairPro Carpet & Built-in Stain Cleaner | — | SharkNinja | $199.99 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our data comes from a combination of user reviews, expert opinions, and product specifications from trusted retailers. We looked at over 25 different carpet shampooers to identify the best options for this list.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on carpet shampooers that offer good performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction. We narrowed it down to the top eight models based on their features and user ratings.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded models that did not have at least a 4-star rating from users. We also ruled out items with poor reviews about durability and effectiveness in cleaning.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand. We did not take any lab measurements or create invented scores. Our assessments are based purely on available data from reviews and specifications.
How often this page is updated
We update this page every three months to ensure that the information remains accurate. New models may be added, and outdated ones will be removed based on current market data.
How to Choose Carpet Shampooers
Cleaning Power
Look for a carpet shampooer with strong cleaning capabilities. Models with multiple brush heads, like the Hoover PowerScrub, offer better stain removal. Aim for at least 5-7 amps of power for effective cleaning.
Tank Size
Consider the tank size of the shampooer. A larger tank means less frequent refills. A tank size of 1.5 gallons or more is good for larger homes.
Weight
Choose a carpet shampooer that is easy to move around. Models around 15-20 pounds are manageable for most users. Lighter models are better for those with limited strength.
Design and Maneuverability
Look for features like swivel steering or lightweight design for easier handling. A carpet shampooer that can fit into tight spaces will be more versatile.
Attachments and Accessories
Check for additional tools that can clean upholstery and stairs. Models like the BISSELL Little Green come with attachments that enhance cleaning options. More tools can make the machine more useful over time.
What to look for
Types of Carpet Shampooers
Carpet shampooers come in various types, including upright, portable, and canister models. Upright models are best for large areas and heavy-duty cleaning. Portable ones are great for quick spot cleaning.
Pet Stain Removal
If you have pets, consider a carpet shampooer specifically designed for pet messes. Look for features like special stain removal tools and odor elimination systems to tackle pet-related stains effectively.
Drying Time
Drying time can be important after cleaning. Models with heat technology, like the Hoover PowerScrub, can help carpets dry faster. Aim for a carpet shampooer that has a drying time of under 2 hours.
Ease of Use
Choose a carpet shampooer that is easy to set up and operate. Features like easy-fill tanks and lightweight design improve user experience. Consider models with clear instructions for better usability.
Maintenance Requirements
Check how easy it is to clean and maintain the carpet shampooer. Some models have removable brushes for easy cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures the machine lasts longer and works well.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best carpet shampooer for the money?
The BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner is considered the best carpet shampooer for the money. It offers powerful cleaning capabilities at a great value.
Can carpet shampooers clean pet stains?
Yes, many carpet shampooers, like the BISSELL TurboClean PET, are designed to handle pet stains and odors effectively.
How often should I shampoo my carpets?
You should shampoo your carpets at least once every 6-12 months. For homes with pets, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
Are carpet shampooers easy to use?
Most carpet shampooers are designed for ease of use. Look for models with user-friendly features like easy-fill tanks and lightweight designs.
Do carpet shampooers damage carpets?
When used correctly, carpet shampooers do not damage carpets. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe use.
Shopping around? We have 11 more carpet shampooer guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- NIH on botanical ingredients NCCIH (NIH)
- NIAMS skin health NIAMS (NIH)
About the author
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