Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Carpet Shampooers Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best Splurge
- 3. Best Lightweight
- 4. Best Budget
- 5. Runner-Up
- 6. Best Compact
- 7. Best for Daily Use
- 8. Best Heavy-Duty
- Carpet Shampooers Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Carpet Shampooers
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Choosing the right carpet shampooer can be tricky. The BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner, OXY Formula, 3952 is a strong choice for its ability to outclean other lightweight carpet cleaners. If you’re looking to save money, the BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, 3948 is an excellent value, though it may lack some advanced features. Most buyers face a choice between lightweight models for easy handling and powerful ones for deep cleaning. The rest of this page helps you compare specific models to find the best fit.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 8
Top 8 Carpet Shampooers Reviewed in Detail
This section reviews the best carpet shampooers available today. Learn about their features and how they compare.
1. Editor’s Choice
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 uses OXY Formula to tackle tough stains. It is lightweight, making it easy to use in small spaces. This model excels at cleaning carpets and area rugs, especially those with pet messes.
Pros
Lightweight design. Effective on pet messes. Easy to maneuver.
Cons
May struggle with larger stains. Requires regular refilling of the water tank.
Best for small homes with pets. Great for quick clean-ups. Suitable for everyday use.
The BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner is a solid choice for pet owners in smaller spaces.
2. Best Splurge
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 Cleaner is designed for pet messes. It has powerful suction and comes with versatile tools for upholstery and carpets. This model is compact and easy to store.
Pros
Compact size. Powerful cleaning system. Good for upholstery and carpets.
Cons
Smaller water tank than some competitors. May require multiple passes for deep stains.
Ideal for pet owners needing quick clean-ups. Works well in tight spaces. Good for small families.
The BISSELL TurboClean PET is excellent for everyday cleaning, especially in homes with pets.
3. Best Lightweight
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 offers professional-level stain removal. Its five SpinScrub brushes clean stains from multiple angles. HeatForce technology helps speed up drying time.
Pros
Deep cleaning capability. Fast drying with HeatForce. Pro-level stain removal.
Cons
Heavier than some other models. Can be bulky for storage.
Best for larger homes with heavy foot traffic. Suitable for deep cleaning carpets. Great for families with kids and pets.
The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe is perfect for tough stains and high-traffic areas.
4. Best Budget
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 is lightweight and powerful. It effectively removes stubborn stains and odors from carpets. It is designed for busy homes and quick clean-ups.
Pros
Lightweight design. Effective on pet stains. Quick cleaning capability.
Cons
Small water tank. May not handle large areas without refilling.
Great for pet owners and families. Suitable for quick clean-ups. Works well in smaller homes.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact is a practical choice for quick and effective cleaning.
5. Runner-Up
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 perfect for quick spills. It cleans carpets and upholstery while removing allergens. This model is easy to carry and store.
Pros
Portable design. Removes allergens effectively. Great for small messes.
Cons
Limited cleaning capacity. Not suitable for large areas.
Best for quick, everyday clean-ups. Ideal for smaller households. Great for spot cleaning.
The BISSELL Little Green Mini is excellent for small spills and regular maintenance.
6. Best Compact
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 Cleaner offers a wide cleaning path. It is designed to save time while cleaning carpets. This model also works on stairs and upholstery.
Pros
Wide 10-inch cleaning path. Saves cleaning time. Good for above-floor cleaning.
Cons
Larger size may be harder to store. Can be heavier than other models.
Ideal for larger homes with more cleaning needs. Good for families. Works well for above-floor areas.
The BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL is a time-saving option for bigger cleaning tasks.
7. Best for Daily Use
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 Cleaner focuses on deep cleaning. It removes tough pet stains and odors effectively. The CleanShot Pretreater helps tackle stubborn spots.
Pros
Strong stain removal. Odor protection features. Good for multiple surfaces.
Cons
May need multiple passes for the toughest stains. Heavier than other options.
Best for homes with heavy pet messes. Great for deep cleaning carpets. Suitable for larger families.
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution is ideal for those needing serious cleaning power.
8. Best Heavy-Duty
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 Cleaner is America’s #1 portable cleaner. It effectively removes over 100 common stains. The powerful formula helps eliminate odors.
Pros
Highly portable. Effective stain removal. Trusted by many households.
Cons
Limited capacity for bigger jobs. Not suitable for large areas.
Best for quick spot cleaning. Great for small apartments. Ideal for pet owners.
The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose cleaner is perfect for everyday messes and spills.
Carpet Shampooers Compared Side by Side
The table below shows key features of each model in our carpet shampooer comparison. It includes specs like cleaning power, weight, and special features. Use it to find the best option for your cleaning needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner | Editor's Choice | BISSELL | $99.99 | Check |
| 2 | BISSELL TurboClean PET | Best Splurge | BISSELL | $124.99 | Check |
| 3 | Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine | Best Lightweight | Hoover | $169.99 | Check |
| 4 | Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine | Best Budget | Hoover | $109.99 | Check |
| 5 | BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner | Runner-Up | BISSELL | $79.99 | Check |
| 6 | BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner | Best Compact | BISSELL | $159.99 | Check |
| 7 | BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner | Best for Daily Use | Bissell | $209.99 | Check |
| 8 | BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner | Best Heavy-Duty | 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
We gathered data from various trusted sources like product specifications, user reviews, and expert recommendations. These sources include Amazon, manufacturer websites, and consumer review sites, ensuring a well-rounded view of each carpet shampooer.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist includes the top eight carpet shampooers based on features, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation. We focused on models popular for their cleaning power and versatility, narrowing down from over 20 options.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded products that lacked essential features like effective stain removal or those with poor customer ratings. Models that did not perform well in consumer tests or had low durability were also removed from consideration.
What we did not do
We did not test any products by hand. All comparisons are based on research, product data, and customer feedback. No lab measurements or invented scores were included in our evaluation.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect changes in product availability and new models. We check for updates every three months, ensuring the information remains accurate and relevant.
How to Choose Carpet Shampooers
Consider cleaning power
When choosing a carpet shampooer, look for models with powerful motors. A minimum of 5 amps is recommended for effective stain removal. More amps generally mean better cleaning results.
Evaluate tank size
Tank size matters for larger cleaning tasks. Models with a tank capacity of at least 1.5 gallons will require less frequent refills and allow you to clean larger areas without interruption.
Check for lightweight designs
If you need to move your carpet shampooer often, consider lightweight options. Aim for models weighing less than 15 pounds for easier handling, especially if you have stairs or multi-level homes.
Look for special features
Some models come with unique features like heated cleaning or dual-tank systems. Consider these options if you deal with tough pet stains or need to clean upholstery regularly.
Read customer reviews
Always check customer reviews before making a purchase. Look for consistent feedback on cleaning effectiveness, ease of use, and durability. This can help you avoid models with hidden issues.
What to look for
Cleaning Efficiency
Cleaning efficiency is important when selecting a carpet shampooer. Models should effectively remove dirt and stains. Consider those with advanced brush technology or multiple cleaning modes for better results.
Size and Weight
Size and weight greatly affect usability. A lightweight shampooer is easier to maneuver. If you have stairs or tight spaces, opt for a model under 15 pounds for convenience.
Tank Capacity
Tank capacity influences how much area you can clean before refilling. A larger tank is beneficial for big jobs. Choose a model with at least 1.5 gallons for extended cleaning sessions.
Versatility
Versatility matters when choosing a carpet shampooer. Many models can also clean upholstery and hard floors. Look for additional tools or attachments that aid in various cleaning tasks.
Brand Reliability
Brand reliability affects product quality and support. Well-known brands often provide better warranties and customer service. Research brand reputations to ensure you’re buying a trustworthy product.
Frequently asked questions
What is a carpet shampooer comparison?
A carpet shampooer comparison reviews different models based on features, cleaning power, and user feedback. It helps buyers choose the right one for their needs.
How can I tell which carpet shampooer is best for pet stains?
Look for models with specialized tools for pet messes, like the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus. These often include features that target odors and tough stains.
Are portable carpet shampooers effective?
Yes, portable carpet shampooers like the BISSELL Little Green Mini are effective for small messes and spot cleaning. They are easy to maneuver and store.
How often should I use a carpet shampooer?
The frequency of use depends on your home environment. If you have pets or kids, consider shampooing every few months. Otherwise, every 6 to 12 months is usually sufficient.
Can I use a carpet shampooer on upholstery?
Many carpet shampooers can be used on upholstery, but check the product guide first. Some models include special attachments for effective upholstery cleaning.
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
Similar guides
- 8 Best Carpet Shampooers for the Money in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Best Carpet Shampooers under $200 in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Best Carpet Shampooers for Apartments in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Best Mascaras for Teens in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Best Hair Clips for Women in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
- 8 Cheap Eyeliners in 2026 Beauty & Grooming
