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10 Best Portable Carpet Cleaners 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner and Car/Auto Detailer, 3353, Gray/Blue

Tank Capacity: 48 ounces
Weight and Portability: 9.7 pounds
Cleaning Attachments and Tools: 3-inch Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse
Ease of Use and Maintenance: hand washing certain components

Chosen by 1487 this week

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)

Suction Power: 30% stronger than competitors
Weight and Portability: 8.18 pounds
Cleaning Attachments and Tools: self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, pet tool
Cord Length and Hose Reach: longer hose and cord
Ease of Use and Maintenance: no batteries, no assembly required

Shark PX201 StainStriker Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, Spot, Stain, & Odor Eliminator, 3 Attachments, Perfect for Pets, Carpet, Area Rugs, Couches, Upholstery, Cars & More, White

Tank Capacity: 0.18 Gallons
Suction Power: Powerful suction
Weight and Portability: 8.5 Pounds
Cleaning Attachments and Tools: Hose clean tool, 6-oz. Deep Clean Pro Formula, 12-oz. OXY Multiplier Pro Formula, Pet tool, 3" Reversible bristle tool, Crevice tool, Shark StainStrikerTM
Ease of Use and Maintenance: Easy to maneuver, easy maintenance

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

Tank Capacity: 64 oz.
Weight and Portability: 13 pounds
Cleaning Attachments and Tools: 5” Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool
Ease of Use and Maintenance: Dual-tank system, 25-minute drying
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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner and Car/Auto Detailer, 3353, Gray/Blue

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,487
Tank Capacity
Suction Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
95730 reviews

Tank Capacity
Despite initial concerns, the tank size is perfectly adequate for spot cleaning and multiple small messes before needing a refill.
Suction Power
This little machine is a stain-fighting BEAST, effortlessly tackling red wine stains, coffee spills, and ground-in dirt.
Weight and Portability
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, perfect for spot cleaning, stairs, and car interiors without the need for a bulky full-size cleaner.
Cleaning Attachments and Tools
Instructions could be clearer on how best to use each of the attachments, requiring some users to search online for guidance.
Cord Length and Hose Reach
The long electrical cord makes it easy to use in rooms with few outlets, adding to its convenience.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Setup and operation are a breeze with simple and intuitive controls.

The Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner is a strong contender for those in need of an effective cleaning solution for pet stains and odors. With a powerful suction capability, it effectively tackles tough spots on various surfaces such as carpets, upholstery, and car interiors, making it versatile for use throughout your home and vehicle. One standout feature is its large tank capacity of 48 ounces, allowing you to clean more without frequent refills, which is a significant convenience during larger cleaning tasks.

Portability is another strength, as the cleaner is designed to be lightweight at just 9.7 pounds, making it easy to maneuver and transport between rooms or to your car. The product also comes with essential cleaning attachments, including a 3-inch Tough Stain Tool and a HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool, which enhance its effectiveness and user experience. Additionally, it includes special formulas designed to remove pet odors and stains, which pet owners will particularly appreciate.

There are a few drawbacks to keep in mind. While the cord length is adequate for standard uses, some users might find it limiting for larger areas without needing to change outlets frequently. Maintenance could also be a consideration since the unit requires hand washing of certain components to ensure optimal performance.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,487
Tank Capacity
Suction Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
95730 reviews

Tank Capacity
Despite initial concerns, the tank size is perfectly adequate for spot cleaning and multiple small messes before needing a refill.
Suction Power
This little machine is a stain-fighting BEAST, effortlessly tackling red wine stains, coffee spills, and ground-in dirt.
Weight and Portability
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, perfect for spot cleaning, stairs, and car interiors without the need for a bulky full-size cleaner.
Cleaning Attachments and Tools
Instructions could be clearer on how best to use each of the attachments, requiring some users to search online for guidance.
Cord Length and Hose Reach
The long electrical cord makes it easy to use in rooms with few outlets, adding to its convenience.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Setup and operation are a breeze with simple and intuitive controls.
#2

BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Auto Detailer, with Exclusive Specialty Tools, Green, 1400B

Rating
9.8
Tank Capacity
Suction Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
95730 reviews

Tank Capacity
Despite the smaller tank, it holds enough to clean multiple spots before needing a refill.
Suction Power
This little machine is a stain-fighting BEAST, tackling red wine stains, coffee spills, and ground-in dirt effortlessly.
Weight and Portability
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for spot cleaning or tackling stairs and car interiors.
Cleaning Attachments and Tools
The instructions could be more detailed on how to use each attachment effectively.
Cord Length and Hose Reach
The long electrical cord makes it easy to use in rooms with few outlets.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Setup and operation are a breeze with simple and intuitive controls.

The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is a solid choice for anyone looking to tackle stains and odors in carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors. With a powerful suction system, it effectively removes tough spots, making it ideal for pet owners who often deal with messes. One of its key strengths is its 48 oz. tank capacity, allowing for longer cleaning sessions before needing to refill, which is very convenient.

Portability is another highlight; weighing in at just under 10 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver around your home or take to your vehicle. The included cleaning attachments, such as the 3-inch tough stain tool, enhance its versatility, allowing you to address different types of surfaces and stains effectively.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The corded design means you’ll need to be near an outlet, which can limit mobility during cleaning. Additionally, while the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool helps maintain performance, it does require some attention to keep the machine in top shape after each use. Some users might find the unit a bit bulky compared to other handheld options on the market. The cleaner is straightforward to use, but its maintenance might pose a slight challenge for those who prefer a more hands-off approach.

Rating
9.8
Tank Capacity
Suction Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
95730 reviews

Tank Capacity
Despite the smaller tank, it holds enough to clean multiple spots before needing a refill.
Suction Power
This little machine is a stain-fighting BEAST, tackling red wine stains, coffee spills, and ground-in dirt effortlessly.
Weight and Portability
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for spot cleaning or tackling stairs and car interiors.
Cleaning Attachments and Tools
The instructions could be more detailed on how to use each attachment effectively.
Cord Length and Hose Reach
The long electrical cord makes it easy to use in rooms with few outlets.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Setup and operation are a breeze with simple and intuitive controls.
#3

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
9.5
Tank Capacity
Suction Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
1740 reviews

Tank Capacity
The 'dirty' tank is very easy to both empty and clean, with the entire lid coming off to prevent gross water from being left behind.
Suction Power
Suction power is great, easy to clean, and the parts are simple to disassemble and reassemble.
Weight and Portability
Very portable and petite, making it easy to store and use for small jobs or spot cleaning.
Cleaning Attachments and Tools
The tool heads are small, so it takes longer to work through an area, but overall it's an affordable and great improvement on the original model.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The self-cleaning nozzle is a great upgraded feature and works well, making maintenance a breeze.

The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner is designed for pet owners who need an efficient solution for cleaning up after their furry friends. One of its standout features is the superior suction power, which is 30% stronger than many competitors. This enhanced suction capability makes it effective in removing tough pet stains and embedded dirt. Additionally, the self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool helps maintain the cleaner's performance by rinsing out residue with minimal effort from the user.

The pet hair removal tool is another notable feature, catering specifically to pet owners' needs by efficiently tackling pet hair. Weighing in at just 8.18 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around the house or even use in a car for auto detailing. The longer hose and cord length provide ample reach for hard-to-access areas, and the two-tank system keeps clean and dirty water separate, simplifying the filling and emptying process.

Potential buyers should be aware that the tank capacity is on the smaller side, which may require more frequent refills during cleaning sessions. The unit's ease of use and maintenance is a strong point, with no batteries needed and no assembly required. Its compact dimensions (13 x 13 x 10 inches) make it easy to store. This cleaner is ideal for pet owners and those who require a portable, efficient solution for spot cleaning and maintaining upholstery and carpets.

Rating
9.5
Tank Capacity
Suction Power
Weight and Portability

Most important from
1740 reviews

Tank Capacity
The 'dirty' tank is very easy to both empty and clean, with the entire lid coming off to prevent gross water from being left behind.
Suction Power
Suction power is great, easy to clean, and the parts are simple to disassemble and reassemble.
Weight and Portability
Very portable and petite, making it easy to store and use for small jobs or spot cleaning.
Cleaning Attachments and Tools
The tool heads are small, so it takes longer to work through an area, but overall it's an affordable and great improvement on the original model.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
The self-cleaning nozzle is a great upgraded feature and works well, making maintenance a breeze.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Carpet Cleaners

Choosing the right portable carpet cleaner can make a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. Portable carpet cleaners are designed to be compact and easy to maneuver, making them ideal for spot cleaning and tackling small to medium-sized areas. When selecting a portable carpet cleaner, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
Tank CapacityTank capacity refers to the amount of water and cleaning solution the cleaner can hold. This is important because it determines how long you can clean before needing to refill. Smaller tanks (around 30-40 ounces) are lighter and easier to carry but require more frequent refills, making them suitable for quick spot cleaning. Larger tanks (60-80 ounces or more) allow for longer cleaning sessions without interruption, ideal for larger areas or more extensive cleaning tasks. Consider your typical cleaning needs and the size of the areas you will be cleaning to choose the right tank capacity.
Suction PowerSuction power is crucial for effectively removing dirt, stains, and excess water from your carpets. Higher suction power means better cleaning performance and faster drying times. Suction power is often measured in watts or amps. For light, occasional cleaning, a lower suction power may suffice. However, for homes with pets, children, or high foot traffic, a cleaner with higher suction power will be more effective in deep cleaning and stain removal. Assess the level of dirt and the frequency of cleaning to determine the appropriate suction power for your needs.
Weight and PortabilityWeight and portability are key factors in a portable carpet cleaner, as they affect how easy it is to move and use the device. Lighter models (under 10 pounds) are easier to carry around and store, making them ideal for quick cleanups and small spaces. Heavier models (10-20 pounds) may offer more features and larger tanks but can be more cumbersome to maneuver. If you need to clean multiple rooms or carry the cleaner up and down stairs, a lighter, more portable model may be more convenient. Consider your physical capabilities and the layout of your home when choosing the weight and portability of the cleaner.
Cleaning Attachments and ToolsCleaning attachments and tools enhance the versatility of your portable carpet cleaner. Common attachments include upholstery tools, crevice tools, and stair tools, which allow you to clean different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. Some models also come with specialized brushes for tackling tough stains or pet hair. If you plan to use the cleaner for various tasks beyond just carpets, such as cleaning furniture, car interiors, or stairs, look for a model with a range of useful attachments. Think about the specific cleaning challenges you face and choose a cleaner with the appropriate tools to address them.
Cord Length and Hose ReachCord length and hose reach determine how far you can move the cleaner without needing to switch power outlets or reposition the machine. A longer cord (15-20 feet or more) and hose (4-6 feet or more) provide greater flexibility and ease of use, especially in larger rooms or when cleaning stairs. Shorter cords and hoses may be sufficient for small areas or quick spot cleaning but can be limiting in larger spaces. Consider the size of the areas you will be cleaning and the availability of power outlets to choose the right cord length and hose reach for your needs.
Ease of Use and MaintenanceEase of use and maintenance are important for ensuring that your portable carpet cleaner is convenient to operate and maintain. Features such as easy-to-fill tanks, simple controls, and clear instructions can make the cleaning process more straightforward. Additionally, consider how easy it is to clean the machine itself, including emptying and rinsing the tanks, cleaning the brushes, and removing any debris. A model that is easy to use and maintain will save you time and effort in the long run. Think about your comfort level with operating and maintaining appliances and choose a cleaner that matches your preferences.

FAQ