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10 Best Carpet Cleaner For Stairs 2025 in the United States

BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Turbo Upright Carpet Cleaner, 35799

Portability: 17.5 pounds
Suction Power: TurboStrength Motor Technology
Tank Capacity: 1 Gallon
Brush Type: Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, 12 rows
Attachments and Accessories: Revolution Pet Turbo, 2 trial bottles

Hoover Smartwash Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine, FH52000, Turquoise

Portability: 18.49 pounds
Suction Power: Powerful suction
Tank Capacity: 4 pounds
Brush Type: FlexForce PowerBrushes
Attachments and Accessories: Carpet Solution, 8 ft Hose, Stair Tool
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BISSELL® Little Green® Max Pet Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner, Car/Auto Detailer, with Self-Cleaning Tough Stain Tool and Pet Hair Removal Tool (3860)

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,386
Portability
Suction Power
Tank Capacity
Portability
This small but mighty portable shampooer cleans and powers through the toughest messes.
Suction Power
Suction power is great, easy to clean (all parts come apart) and easy to assemble upon arrival.
Tank Capacity
The dirty tank is very easy to both empty and clean, with the entire lid coming off.
Brush Type
The tough stain tool is great, but the bristles could be more slender to get into a denser carpet.
Attachments and Accessories
Tool heads are small, so it takes longer to work through an area.

The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner is a strong contender for anyone needing a carpet cleaner for stairs, especially pet owners. It boasts superior suction power, reportedly 30% more powerful than competitors, which means it should effectively remove tough stains and embedded dirt from stair carpets. The inclusion of specialized tools like the Pet Hair Removal Tool and the Self-Cleaning Tough Stain Tool also adds to its versatility and convenience, making it easier to tackle pet-related messes. Additionally, the product supports a good cause, as BISSELL donates to the BISSELL Pet Foundation with every purchase, which might appeal to pet lovers.

Portability is a significant strength, with the cleaner weighing only 8.18 pounds, making it easy to carry up and down stairs. The longer hose and cord are beneficial for reaching difficult spots, enhancing its usability on stairs. The dual tank system is convenient, keeping clean and dirty water separate, simplifying the cleaning process. However, the tank capacity is relatively small, which could mean more frequent refills and emptying during larger cleaning tasks.

The color may vary, which could be a minor drawback for those particular about aesthetics. The lack of battery operation means it needs to be plugged in, which could be inconvenient if power outlets are not conveniently located near the stairs. In conclusion, this carpet cleaner is ideal for pet owners and those needing a portable, powerful solution for cleaning stairs, despite some minor inconveniences related to tank capacity and corded operation.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,386
Portability
Suction Power
Tank Capacity
Portability
This small but mighty portable shampooer cleans and powers through the toughest messes.
Suction Power
Suction power is great, easy to clean (all parts come apart) and easy to assemble upon arrival.
Tank Capacity
The dirty tank is very easy to both empty and clean, with the entire lid coming off.
Brush Type
The tough stain tool is great, but the bristles could be more slender to get into a denser carpet.
Attachments and Accessories
Tool heads are small, so it takes longer to work through an area.
#2

BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Auto Detailer, 3618

Rating
9.6
Portability
Suction Power
Cord Length

Most important from
2451 reviews

Portability
Its lightweight and compact design makes it perfect for storing in small spaces or taking on the go for car detailing.
Suction Power
Suction power is rated as low to medium, comparable to a stand-up Bissell carpet cleaner, and could be improved for better performance.
Cord Length
While the item is well-made and easy to move around, the cord could be longer for better mobility, especially when cleaning car interiors.
Attachments and Accessories
The brush heads could latch more securely to the hose as they tend to fall off during use.

The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is a versatile and portable solution for cleaning stairs, carpets, upholstery, and even auto interiors. With its compact design and 13-pound weight, it's easy to carry around and maneuver, making it ideal for tackling stair cleaning tasks. The powerful suction combined with HydroSteam technology ensures efficient removal of set-in stains and tough messes.

The dual-tank system with a 64 oz. clean tank capacity allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills, and the easy-to-remove dirty tank simplifies maintenance. The 5” Tough Stain Tool and Multi-Surface Tool enhance its versatility, enabling it to clean various surfaces, including tile and grout. Additionally, the product includes BISSELL PET PRO OXY Spot & Stain Urine Eliminator, which is effective for permanent stain removal and prevention of future stains.

One of the downsides is that it is corded, which may limit mobility compared to cordless models. Furthermore, the drying time of about 25 minutes, while reasonable, might still require some waiting before using the cleaned upholstery or carpet. Despite these minor drawbacks, the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Cleaner is a robust option for those needing a portable and efficient cleaner for stairs and other surfaces.

Rating
9.6
Portability
Suction Power
Cord Length

Most important from
2451 reviews

Portability
Its lightweight and compact design makes it perfect for storing in small spaces or taking on the go for car detailing.
Suction Power
Suction power is rated as low to medium, comparable to a stand-up Bissell carpet cleaner, and could be improved for better performance.
Cord Length
While the item is well-made and easy to move around, the cord could be longer for better mobility, especially when cleaning car interiors.
Attachments and Accessories
The brush heads could latch more securely to the hose as they tend to fall off during use.
#3

BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Turbo Upright Carpet Cleaner, 35799

Rating
9.4
Portability
Tank Capacity

Most important from
5320 reviews

Portability
Despite its size, the cleaner is manageable and not too heavy, with a design that facilitates easy maneuvering.
Tank Capacity
User-friendly design with long-lasting tank capacity, making it easy to fill, clean, and operate for extended periods.

The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Turbo Upright Carpet Cleaner, model 35799, offers several features that make it suitable for cleaning stairs. Its TurboStrength Motor Technology provides robust suction power, ensuring effective removal of embedded dirt, stains, and allergens. The dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes with 12 rows of bristles enhance its cleaning capability on stairs by lifting dirt from deep within the carpet fibers. Additionally, the HeatWave Technology helps maintain water temperature during cleaning, which can be beneficial for tough stains and dirt removal.

The cleaner comes with various attachments, including pet stain tools and a 7 ft hose, which can be useful for stair cleaning tasks where precision and reach are required. The express clean mode leaves carpets dry in about 30 minutes, reducing downtime after cleaning. Its upright form factor and weight of 17.5 pounds might make it less portable and somewhat cumbersome for maneuvering on stairs compared to smaller, handheld models. The 1-gallon tank capacity is adequate but may require frequent refills during extensive cleaning sessions. Additionally, the corded power source, although providing consistent power, means you will need to manage the cord length during use.

In summary, this carpet cleaner offers strong suction power, effective brush technology, and useful attachments for stair cleaning. However, its bulk and weight might be less convenient for some users.

Rating
9.4
Portability
Tank Capacity

Most important from
5320 reviews

Portability
Despite its size, the cleaner is manageable and not too heavy, with a design that facilitates easy maneuvering.
Tank Capacity
User-friendly design with long-lasting tank capacity, making it easy to fill, clean, and operate for extended periods.

Buying Guide for the Best Carpet Cleaner For Stairs

Choosing the right carpet cleaner for stairs can make a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. Stairs can be tricky to clean due to their shape and the high traffic they endure. When selecting a carpet cleaner, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get a product that meets your needs and makes the cleaning process as efficient and effective as possible.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to move the carpet cleaner around, especially up and down stairs. This is important because a heavy or bulky cleaner can be difficult to maneuver on stairs, making the cleaning process cumbersome. Portable carpet cleaners are typically lighter and may have features like carrying handles or wheels. If you have multiple flights of stairs or limited strength, a lightweight and compact model will be more suitable for you.
Suction PowerSuction power determines how effectively the carpet cleaner can remove dirt, debris, and water from your carpets. This is crucial for ensuring a deep clean and quick drying times. Suction power is often measured in watts or amps. Higher suction power means better cleaning performance, but it can also mean a heavier machine. For stairs, you want a balance between strong suction and manageable weight. If your stairs see a lot of foot traffic or have deep-set stains, opt for a cleaner with higher suction power.
Tank CapacityTank capacity refers to the amount of cleaning solution and dirty water the carpet cleaner can hold. This is important because a larger tank means fewer trips to refill or empty the cleaner, saving you time and effort. However, larger tanks can also add to the weight of the machine. For stairs, a medium-sized tank is often ideal as it provides a good balance between capacity and portability. If you have a large staircase or multiple staircases, a larger tank might be more convenient.
Brush TypeThe type of brush on a carpet cleaner affects how well it can scrub and lift dirt from your carpets. This is important for effectively removing stains and embedded dirt. Common brush types include rotating brushes, fixed brushes, and vibrating brushes. Rotating brushes are generally more effective for deep cleaning but can be harder to maneuver on stairs. Fixed brushes are easier to control but may not clean as deeply. Choose a brush type based on the level of dirt and stains on your stairs and your comfort with handling the cleaner.
Cord LengthCord length determines how far you can move the carpet cleaner from the power outlet. This is important for convenience and ease of use, especially on stairs where outlets may not be easily accessible. A longer cord allows you to clean more steps without needing to switch outlets frequently. For most staircases, a cord length of at least 20 feet is recommended. If your stairs are particularly long or you have limited outlets, look for a cleaner with an even longer cord or consider a cordless model.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the versatility and effectiveness of your carpet cleaner. This is important for reaching tight spaces and tackling specific cleaning challenges. Common attachments include crevice tools, stair tools, and upholstery brushes. For stairs, a specialized stair tool can make cleaning easier and more thorough. Consider what additional features you might need based on the specific layout and material of your stairs. If you have pets, look for attachments designed to handle pet hair and stains.

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