Table of Contents
Carpet cleaning is one of those chores that is perpetually put off until “tomorrow” or “next week.” Especially if you have darker carpets, it might be easier to tell yourself that the carpet is fine, it doesn’t need to be cleaned, or it can wait. BUT, if you could see the dirt and hair hiding in those microfibres, your opinion might change.
If your carpet has gone so long between cleanings that you can’t remember if it started out white or was always brown, you need a carpet cleaner! Some models can even help you tackle those stubborn spots on your couch and other upholstery.
As with all things, carpet cleaners are not all created equal, so we’ve analyzed 19 different products over 27 gruelling hours to find the top choices, using 689 customer reviews to dig a little deeper and discover the truth of these carpet cleaners’ performance, quality, and efficiency.
Since researching carpet cleaners is probably not on your bucket list, we’ve done all the hard work for you, and we’re pretty confident you’ll find your ideal carpet cleaner in our list!
Following our last update, our favorite model is the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe.
Our Top Pick Carpet Cleaner in 2023
Overall, we are very happy with the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe carpet cleaner. Its incredibly easy to learn and use in all areas of your home, plus filling and draining the machine couldn’t be simpler. The attachments and superior cleaning technologies make it a reliable and effective choice, even for routinely messy homes filled with children, pets, or both.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Versatile with a hand tool
- Great value for money
- Water extraction is well above average
Cons:
- Detergent is expensive
- Higher-end models will produce a more effective clean
- Some cheaper parts require replacement after 10-12 uses, or after minor accidents or damage
Our selection of the best models available right now:
- Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe
- Bissell Proheat 2X Revolution
- Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner
- Hoover Powerdash Pet
- Bissell Powerclean Turbobrush Pet
- Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet Cleaner
- Bissell Proheat
- Hoover Smartwash
- Bissell Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner
- Bissell Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner
- Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner
- Bissell Portable Carpet Cleaner
Carpet Cleaner Comparative Table
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Top Pick
|
Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe
|
9,7
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Home Depot |
|
Upgrade Pick
|
Bissell Proheat 2X Revolution
|
9,4
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Walmart |
|
Commercial Pick
|
Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner |
9,4
|
Check Price on Amazon |
|
Budget Pick
|
Hoover Powerdash Pet
|
9
|
Check Price on AmazonCheck Price at Walmart |
Our Pick for The Best Carpet Cleaner
Presentation of the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe
The Best Overall Carpet Cleaner
Hoover
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use carpet cleaner that can tackle your carpet, sofa, or stairs, this is the model for you. The Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe carpet cleaner is built to be used frequently and is a great choice for anyone needing a reliable and effective carpet cleaner at a reasonable price. This model comes with an excellent lifespan and is versatile enough to be a good fit for any sized household.
Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Video Review
What We Think of the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe
This Hoover carpet cleaner comes with an 8ft hose and numerous attachments, making it one of the most versatile carpet cleaners we looked at. Its inverted W head makes cleaning upholstery and stairs a total breeze, and the unit is light enough to make stair cleaning a tad less challenging, even for those a bit coordinately-challenged.
The presence of Spinscrub technology is a huge selling point for the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe, hence its name. The rotating brushes are much more effective than the standard roller featured on a lot of other carpet cleaners. The rotating brushes definitely live up to their reputation, penetrating carpets deeply for an effective clean without damaging your carpets.
I should have bought this a long time ago! Easy to use and assemble, clean and refill! Not very heavy and has amazing cleaning power. If you’re looking for a carpet cleaner, you can’t go wrong with this one!
Kristen M.
Ease of use is also part of what makes the Hoover Deluxe such a popular model. Assembly is super straightforward and filling the reservoir with water or detergent is as simple as turning a nob. The Power Scrub Deluxe also uses a hot air system to accelerate dry times after a wash and rinse treatment.
One downside we’ve noticed is the higher consumption of water and detergent. For a model with expensive detergent options, this can be a troubling prospect, especially when there are other higher-end models out there capable of more effective cleaning. This machine, being on the lower end of the cost scale, is not made to last as long as others on our list and features some flimsier plastic parts as well as a common leaky pump, among other minor parts issues.
Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Specifications
- UL Certified
- Cleaning Width: 11.25 Inches
- Capacity: 3.8 L of water and 470 ml of detergent
- Cord: 20ft
- Hose: 8ft
- Weight: 18.1 lbs
- Warranty: 2 years, limited
- Amps: 10
- Dimensions: 11.5in X 17.25in X 43.25in
Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Easy to use
- Versatile with a hand tool
- Great value for money
- Water extraction is well above average
Cons
- Detergent is expensive
- Higher-end models will produce a more effective clean
- Some cheaper parts require replacement after 10-12 uses, or after minor accidents or damage
Our Final Opinion About the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, we are very happy with the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe carpet cleaner. Its incredibly easy to learn and use in all areas of your home, plus filling and draining the machine couldn’t be simpler. The attachments and superior cleaning technologies make it a reliable and effective choice, even for routinely messy homes filled with children, pets, or both.
Our Upgrade Pick for a Carpet Cleaner
Presentation of the Bissel Proheat 2X Revolution
The Most Effective Clean, Guaranteed
Bissel
For homeowners wishing to restore their carpets to brand-new levels of clean, the Bissel Proheat 2X Revolution is the machine for you. This top-of-the-line carpet cleaner is a particularly powerful model capable of that next-level clean that many other carpet cleaners cannot achieve.
Bissel Proheat 2X Revolution Video Review
What We Think of the Bissel Proheat 2X Revolution
One of the best features of the Proheat 2X Revolution is its two cleaning modes. Deep Clean is perfect for those tough or old stains that have stood up against other cleaning methods, and the express clean is ideal for rejuvenation of carpets. The drying time for both modes is even better than we expected, with only a 4 hour wait time after a deep clean and a staggering 60 minute for the express clean. Talk about efficiency!
The Proheat 2X Revolution also comes with several hand tools for spot cleaning and a tough stain tool that puts your previous stain removal attempts to shame. You’ll also enjoy a 2-in-1 crevice tool for those itty-bitty stains or tricky corners. The attachments and 12 rows of super effective DirtLifter brushes in this machine make it an ideal choice for all the perfectionists out there that need every inch of their carpet cleaned to a high standard.
The Bissel Proheat 2X Revolution is a BEAST! It is powerful to the extreme and I am still amazed at how effective it cleans carpets all over my house. This machine definitely means business.
David M
The only true downside to this model is the high-pitched screeching noise that a majority of carpet cleaners seem to be prone to. If you can bear to listen to it during the cleaning process, or can invest in some ear plugs, your carpets will thank you. Another unfortunate feature of the Proheat 2X Revolution is the tricky cleaning protocols. While the tank removes easily, the vacuum component is much more challenging and requires disassembly and reassembly each time. You’ll definitely need your patience pants on when cleaning this machine.
Bissel Proheat 2X Revolution Specifications
- Cleaning Width: 11 inches
- Capacity: 3.8 L
- Cord: 23ft
- Hose: 2M
- Weight: 18lbs
- Warranty: 3 years, limited
- Amps: 8
- Dimensions: 12.6in X 15in X 43.5in
Bissel Proheat 2X Revolution Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Well-made and built to last
- Effectively sucks up dirty water
- Excellent stain removal with a thorough deep clean
- Long cable for larger rooms
Cons
- Very noisy
- Can be tricky to clean out after use
- Higher price
Our Final Opinion About the Bissel Proheat 2X Revolution
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
We are very impressed with the Proheat 2X Revolution, and it is safe to say that Bissel’s experience pays off with this machine. We are confident in our assertion that the Proheat will clean any spill or stain on your carpet without fail. If you can live with the few flaws it does possess (earplugs are highly recommended), you’ll love this machine.
Our Commercial Pick for a Carpet Cleaner
Presentation of the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner
The Commercial-Use Pick
Rug Doctor
Price wise, the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner is not for the faint of heart, but it is heavy-duty and has the ability to lift up some of the most intense stains. People who need a professional grade cleaner will love this product.
Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner Video Review
What We Think of the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner
If you are a professional cleaner, you need something heavy-duty. The Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner is the perfect professional or commercial carpet cleaner. Although it is very expensive, it offers some of the best spraying, scrubbing, and extraction methods for clean carpets.
The reason the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner classifies as a commercial cleaner is that it comes with the most intense cleaning features. It includes powerful jets that can send the carpet cleaner to the roots, allowing the dirt, stains, and grime to move.
At the same time, the cleaner also features triple acting vibrating brushes. These brushes are able to lift the odors and debris from the carpet at all angles.
Finally, the carpet uses an extractor vacuum motor with prograde suction to completely lift and vibrate scum out of the carpet fibers. The vacuum motor is especially notable because it allows the carpet to dry much faster, letting your clients get back to living sooner rather than later.
This is the best rug cleaner we’ve ever used.
laura a.
This carpet cleaner is so effective that it is CRI Gold Rated. This means that the product is easily one of the most effective for cleaning out heavy soiled carpets.
As you would expect, the biggest complaint about the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner is its price. This carpet cleaner is very expensive, and it should only be used for commercial purposes. Homeowners should definitely go for something else because they will likely not need a cleaner of this caliber. At least it comes with a 2 year warranty.
This cleaner is really bulky too. Because of its high cleaning power, it is very heavy and is difficult to move around if you are not in shape and familiar with this sort of contraption.
For professional use, you won’t find a carpet cleaner better than the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner. Because of its high price and bulkiness, homeowners will likely want a different model.
Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner Specifications
- Brand: Rug Doctor
- Weight: 17.8 kg
- Warranty: 2 year limited
Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Highly effective
- Perfect for professional use
- CRI Gold Standard
Cons
- Highly expensive
- Bulky
Our Final Opinion About the Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
The Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 Commercial Carpet Cleaner is very expensive and bulky, but it is perfect for commercial use. Homeowners should opt for a more affordable option, but professionals will love this cleaner.
Our Budget Pick for a Carpet Cleaner
Presentation of the Hoover Powerdash Pet
The Pet Owner’s Best Friend
Hoover
Every pet owner knows that messes come with the territory, but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with a perpetually dirty home. At least, not with the Hoover Powerdash Pet in your arsenal. This compact, straightforward carpet cleaner is built with pets in mind to give you the superb clean you need without any hassle.
Hoover Powerdash Pet Video Review
What We Think of the Hoover Powerdash Pet
For the price of this machine, we did not expect the crazy suction power that its capable of! The Powerdash Pet comes with a PowerSpin Pet Brush which features longer bristles that remove dirt and hair even in deep carpets, giving you a surprisingly deep clean for its size. Despite its 10” vacuum head, its impressive efficiency means that it won’t eat up more of your time even though it’ll take a few extra passes to clean your carpets.
This model does come with two easily removable tanks for filling or dumping, and are both super easy to assemble and clean. It also has guiding lines for your cleaning solution and water levels to make portioning easier.
The Hoover Powerdash Pet also uses heat to its advantage. It’s heated cleaning system works amazingly well on tough stains and gives your carpet that fresh, just-washed look better than cold water. The Powerdash pet also uses a hot air system to improve the dying time of your carpets, rather than relying on a water-suction system only.
I have lots of pets, so naturally lots of pet messes too. I am totally impressed by this machine! 10/10.
Karen S.
We were a bit disappointed by the 1.9 L tank, especially since many carpet cleaners come with a capacity double that of the Powerdash pet. This model also does not come equipped with a hose or any attachments, so even for those minor messes you’ll need to fill the tank and use the entire machine. That also means that this carpet cleaner’s versatility is not what it could be, but hats off to those of you who will still try to clean your stairs or sofa cushions with it, we know you’re out there and we’re cheering for you.
Hoover Powerdash Specifications
- Cleaning Width: 10 inches
- Capacity: 1.9 L
- Cord: 20ft
- Weight: 13lbs
- Warranty: 1 year
- Amps: 7
- Dimensions: 10.1in X 15.25in X 43.5in
Hoover Powerdash Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Excellent suction
- Lightweight and portable
- Great price
- Heated drying
Cons
- Low capacity tanks
- Narrower cleaning path
- No attachments for spot cleaning, stairs, or upholstery cleaning
Our Final Opinion About the Hoover Powerdash
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Even though the Powerdash Pet is not designed for large rooms or homes, the fantastic price point and incredible suction power make this unit a great choice for many homeowners on a budget. It is best used for smaller areas or minor stains, but it’s effective cleaning power rivals that of the bigger machines and will make a great addition to your cleaning crew.
Alternative Products to Consider
Presentation of the Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush Pet
The Versatile Alternative
Bissel
Most carpet cleaners specialize in a certain type or size of mess, but the Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush Pet comes in swinging for every job you could ask of it. This machine is equipped to handle everything from a small spill to a total carpet revamp, and its affordable price tag makes this carpet cleaner a strong contender for a spot in your storage closet.
Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush Pet Video Review
What We Think of the Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush Pet
This versatile machine was built with pets in mind and is particularly effective against animal messes such as urine and vomit stains, but is equally effective against food spills and outdoor stains thanks to the Bissel DirtLifter rolling brushes.
Though not as powerful as many other models, the Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush Pet is incredibly effective for smaller sections of carpet and minor stains. You might need a few extra passes than normal for older stains, but this machine will have no trouble against more recent stains with just a pass or two.
It’s small, it’s light, and it attacks great big messes. My carpet looks brand new! You won’t be sorry.
Livia W.
The compact size of the Turbobrush pet model is its major selling point. It is one of the most lightweight carpet cleaners available, and the handle is retractable so it can fit nearly anywhere in your home for convenient storage or climbing up and down the stairs.
This machine also wins in terms of ergonomics since the D-handle provides great control of movement with a comfortable grip and height. It’s lesser weight also makes it accessible for persons of all sizes, which is a huge bonus when comparing it to some of the heavier models (sometimes 50lbs or more).
Cleaning this machine is a breeze since the nozzle is easily removable and can be cleaned quickly in the sink. The two tanks are also very easy to remove, clean, and put back on. Ease of use is high up on this shampooers list of pro features.
Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush Pet Specifications
- Cleaning Width: 9.5 inches
- Capacity: 1.9 L
- Cord: 20ft
- Weight: 12 lbs
- Warranty: 1 year
- Amps: 4
Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush Pet Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Lightweight, compact size
- Large capacity given its size
- Collapsible handle for easy storage
- Versatile for all messes
Cons
- Not stair or upholstery friendly
- Weaker cleaning power than most other models, needs a few passes to be effective
- Reported issues with quality control
Our Final Opinion About the Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush Pet
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Bissel Powerclean Turbobrush pet is an accessible and efficient machine designed for smaller messes and pet or food stains. Though it may require a few extra passes compared to some more powerful models, it’s lightweight, ergonomic design will make any user appreciative.
Presentation of the Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet Cleaner
The Best Small Stain Remover
Hoover
If you’re one of those people that already has too much stuff, this compact, space-saving carpet cleaner is right for you. It is perfect for those small stains that want to make your home their permanent residence. From fresh spills to old stubborn stains on carpets, stairs, or upholstery, the Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet Cleaner can handle the eviction.
Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet Cleaner Video Review
What We Think of the Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet Cleaner
We’re impressed by the power from this small machine. Its 3.5A motor makes quick work of even dried stains and comes with all of the important hand tools for getting into those nooks and crannies on your stairs, in the couch, or in your vehicle.
The designers really put their thinking caps on with this one, so the machine comes with an antimicrobial nozzle to extend the life of the cleaner as well as provide protection against bacteria and mold growth. Since we know how gross some messes can be, we’re appreciative!
This thing is seriously amazing! I have two small kids and thought I’d need to remove my entire carpet, but this machine took care of 99% of the stains! Miracle worker, seriously.
Brianne S.
Keeping in line with the pro-health-and-cleanliness stance of this machine, its hose is self-cleaning! All you have to do is insert the end of the hose into the dedicated port and BAM, it cleans itself right into its own dirty water tank. If that’s not the pinnacle of carpet cleaner innovation, we don’t know what is.
Another great feature of this compact and portable cleaning machine is the noise of operation; no screeching or unsavory noises from this little guy. It is also incredibly water efficient, so it can tackle a larger stain or a whole bunch of little stains without needing to be refilled.
Plus, the Hoover Portable cleaner is not bogged down by a leaky hose like many other models, and its automatic shutoff feature ensures that you’ll never overflow the machine onto your freshly washed carpets.
While cleaning and usage is quite simple, this machine is not ergonomically inclined, so be prepared for a sore back after using this machine. The back support to hold the pipe is not very secure, so you’ll need to multitask and keep an eye on it while cleaning up your messes.
Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet Cleaner Specifications
- UL Certified
- Capacity: 1.5 L Clean water, 1 L Dirty Water
- Cord: 14ft
- Hose: 5ft
- Weight: 9lbs
- Warranty: 2 years
- Amps: 3.5
- Dimensions: 13.9in X 9.7in X 15in
Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet Cleaner Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Self-cleaning hose for odor control
- Powerful motor for its size
- Lightweight even with a full tank
- Fights the good fight against bacteria
Cons
Cons
- Can only handle small stains
- Built economically, so some parts are flimsy and easily damageable
- Not very ergonomic
Our Final Opinion About the Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet Cleaner
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 3.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars
The Hoover Spotless beats out the competition in terms of compact effectiveness and bacteria protection, and is a great spot cleaner for parents, pet owners, or particularly clumsy people. A sturdier pipe would be a nice afterthought, but we still recommend this machine for smaller stains or vehicle cleaning.
Presentation of the Bissel Proheat
The Alternative for Stubborn Stains
Bissel
The Bissel Proheat is a tough machine capable of conquering even your most stubborn and lasting stains. The efficiency of heated cleaning is world-class with this carpet cleaner, and your carpets will shine with renewed life. Its patented technology makes it one of the best carpet cleaners for carpet rejuvenation and stain removal.
Bissel Proheat Video Review
What We Think of the Bissel Proheat
The best feature on the Bissel Proheat is the presence of Heatwave technology to keep your water hot. The heated action makes removal of tough stains and dirt or hair incredibly efficient and effective. We struggled to find a more efficient machine for deep, set-in stains, especially when paired with the recommended cleaning solution.
The Proheat comes equipped with 6 super effective rows of scrubbing brushes that provide a gentle deep clean. This unit also uses Edgesweep brushes to make operation near furniture or against baseboards much less frustrating.
Very happy with this machine. It’s s simple to put together and use. Still haven’t found anything I don’t like on it. Very pleased with this carpet cleaner!
Casey L.
The versatility of the Bissel Proheat is also note-worthy. It is equally effective on upholstery or stairs thanks to the ergonomic D-handle and lengthy hose. The attachment is designed for heavy scrubbing, but you won’t need to work too hard even when using the hose thanks to the firm bristles and hot water.
The necessary drying time after a wash treatment is also pretty impressive. The use of hot water allows your carpets to dry in just a few hours.
The heavier weight of the Bissel Proheat forces the already effective Dirtlifter powerbrushes deeper into your carpets to remove those tough stains better than other models.
A few downsides to this model are the smaller dirty water tank, short hose, and weight of the machine. We recommend having help when using this machine on stairs as it is heavier than others on our list and has a shorter hose, making it doubly awkward on steps.
Bissel Proheat Specifications
- Capacity: 2.8 L
- Cord: 22ft
- Weight: 25lbs
- Amps: 6
- Dimensions: 11.25in X 19in X45in
Bissel Proheat Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Mixes the water and cleaning solution for you
- Heatwave technology maintains water temperature
- Effective deep clean without damaging carpets
Cons
Cons
- Tank is a bit smaller than it should be for a unit of this size
- Heavier than a lot of other models
- Hose is shorter than we’d like
Our Final Opinion About the Bissel Proheat
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 3.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, this is a solid Bissel carpet cleaner. Though it does have a few drawbacks, it can effectively clean stubborn stains to give your carpet that brand-new feel. Its large wheels make the machine a bit more maneuverable for its weight, but there are better options out there for an all-around cleaner.
Presentation of the Hoover Smartwash
A High-Performance Alternative
Hoover
Hoover advertises this model as their best upright carpet cleaner. It is a tempting model for us lazy cleaners who want to do as little work as possible and still get great results. It has a few automatic features that make it an excellent alternative to the other Hoover models we’ve recommended, and it is a great choice for an all-around carpet cleaner.
Hoover Smartwash Video Review
What We Think of the Hoover Smartwash
The Hoover Smartwash is by far the easiest to use carpet cleaner we’ve ever seen. There is no need for measuring out water/cleaning solution ratios or button-pushing to spray the carpet. This machine literally does everything itself. All you have to do is push it forward to clean and pull it backwards to suck up the water. Amazing!
This machine also comes with a super handy attachment for cleaning stairs, small stains, or upholstery items. It even has an animal hair nozzle for all the pet owners out there. The nozzle is also antimicrobial to extend the life of your machine and keep bacteria levels to a minimum.
The FlexForce brushes are effective and gentle cleaners to leave your carpet fresh and stain-free without damaging a single fibre.
I adore this machine. Automatic no-trigger operation makes this the best carpet cleaner out there in my opinion.
Margaret K.
Though higher in price than others on our list, the Hoover Smartwash comes with a 5-year guarantee, which is 5 times longer than most other carpet cleaners out there.
The price tag is a bit shocking compared to many other high-performance cleaners, but this machine sems to be worth it. However, you’ll also need to budget for expensive cleaning solution, which this machine goes through like some people go through chocolate bars (no judgement, we’re guilty too).
Another fault to this machine is the low level of water extraction. We get it, we can’t have our cake and eat it too, but the amount of water left after a treatment is disappointing all the same. Albeit, the super effective clean is probably worth the extended dry time for people with an average patience level.
Hoover Smartwash Specifications
- UL Certified
- Capacity: 3.8 L for water and 590 ml for solution
- Cord: 22ft
- Hose: 8ft
- Weight: 18.9 lbs
- Warranty: 5 years
- Amps: 10
- Dimensions: 13in X 18.9in X 43.5in
Hoover Smartwash Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Large tank for extended cleaning
- Excellent stain removal power
- Automatic dosing and drying
Cons
Cons
- Expensive
- Leaves a higher percentage of water in the carpets than many other models
- High solution consumption
Our Final Opinion About the Hoover Smartwash
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 3.0 out of 5.0 stars
If you can afford it, the Hoover Smartwash is an excellent choice when looking for a carpet cleaner. Its automatic features make usability incredibly simple and its faster dry times is a huge plus for this machine. You will need a higher than average budget for this machine and its cleaning solution, but the effective deep clean may be worth it.
Presentation of the Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner
The Parent and Pet-Owner Pick
Bissel
If you are homeowner with a lot of pets or dirty children, you will like the Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner. It is powerful enough to lift heavy stains, but it is more affordable and adequately sized than professional grade options.
Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner Video Review
What We Think of The Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner
Children and pets are super messy. Just any old carpet cleaner may not do for their sort of messes. The Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner is the perfect option for homeowners with serious needs because it is intense and more easily managed.
The Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner is specifically designed for more serious homeowners. It includes power brushes that rotate and lift dirt from the fibers. It also includes a long reach hose and tough stain tool that can allow you to clean hard to reach areas.
Something that homeowners will especially find useful about this product is that it comes with a large capacity tanks. It also comes with the flow indicator. These features make this carpet cleaner much easier to use than other heavy-duty options.
Although the Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner maybe perfect for people with messy pets, adults that live alone may not want this option. For starters, it is expensive for personal use. It is nowhere near as expensive as some professional grade options, but it certainly is more expensive than other personal use machines.
I love this machine. It is the best carpet cleaning option. I am flabbergasted by its results. I’ve rented industrial options and they didn’t work as good. There was black dirt, toothpaste, coffee, and sticky substances on the carpet and they all came out easy. We have five kids and two dogs. This is a heaven sent. Two thumbs up!
hope c.
Additionally, this carpet cleaner is heavy and bulky. If you’ve never used a carpet cleaner before, you may find it difficult to push this machine. Especially if you have to go upstairs, definitely ask for a hand if you don’t have a lot of muscle on your own.
Still, the high power cleaning abilities of the Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner makes it perfect for homeowners with intense needs. Parents and pet owners will especially like the cleaning quality this cleaner produces, even though it is expensive and bulky.
Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner Specifications
- Brand: Bissel
- Weight: 17 kg
- Warranty: 2 year limited
Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Great quality
- Perfect for homes with kids and pets
- Easy to use features
Cons
Cons
- Expensive for personal use
- Bulky
Our Final Opinion About the Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars
The Bissel Big Green Deep Cleaning Machine Carpet Cleaner is the perfect option if you are a homeowner with heavy needs. Even though it is heavy and expensive, it certainly can get out just about any stain you may have.
Presentation of the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner
The Portable Pick
Bissel
The Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner is the perfect option if you need to take your carpet cleaner on-the-go. People with dirty car upholstery or other on-the-go needs will be happy with this product, though it is not great for general home use because of its small size.
Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner Video Review
What We Think of the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner
One issue many people have with professional carpet cleaners is that they are really large and bulky. They are difficult to use on-the-go or in small spaces. If you need a more portable option, the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner is the perfect choice.
This carpet cleaner is designed to be compact yet highly effective. It only weighs 12 pounds, yet it includes the classic strong spray and suction that other Bissell carpet cleaners boast. It even comes with a tough stain brush, allowing you to get into difficult messes.
Something unique about the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner is that the parts are made from post consumer recycled plastic, hose, and PVC free tanks. These recycled materials are just as effective as other products, yet they are much more environmentally conscious.
On top of all these features, the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner is really affordable. Because of its small size, it is very fairly priced. Even those on a budget will likely find this product within their financial means.
I love this machine. I used it on my store’s rug and got it all cleaned up. You can really see the difference. It sucks dirt right out.
ariane a.
Although we love the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner for its portable design, it certainly should not be your go to cleaner. Because it is so small, it is very ineffective at cleaning the entire carpet in your home. You will be on your hands and knees for hours.
Additionally, it does not have that large of a tank capacity. If you are using it for a long time, expect to dump out the tank multiple times during use, which can make the cleaning process a bit annoying. If you don’t, it will leak.
Not to mention, a tank of this size simply cannot remove as deep of stains as bigger options. Bigger options offer more suction power, which results in better stain lifting. This model does a good job for its size, but it may not be suited for really intense stains.
If you are looking for an on-the-go option, the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner is a great choice. Since it is specifically designed for portable use, you can take it with you anywhere.
Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner Specifications
- Brand: Bissel
- Weight: 5.4 kg
- Warranty: 2 year limited
Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Very compact
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Made with reused materials
Cons
Cons
- Not suited for intense stains
- Not suitable for full carpet cleaning
- Small capacity
- May leak
Our Final Opinion About the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner
Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.9 out of 5.0 stars
The Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner is a great option for portable and on-the-go use. Its small size makes it compact, though it might not be as effective for super deep stains.
Presentation of the Bissel 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner
The Small-Stain Pick
Bissel
If you have little stains that need to be lifted but don’t want to clean out your entire carpet, the Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner is a great choice. It has a small design and an affordable price, yet it offers really great results.
Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner Video Review
What We Think of the Bissel 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner
It can be really annoying if you have to drag out your heavy and bulky carpet cleaner just for one little stain. That is where the Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner comes in handy.
This cleaner is super effective, yet it is designed for smaller or harder to reach areas. This machine includes a power rating of 5.7 amps, making it just as powerful as full sized cleaners. At the same time, it has a three and one stair tool that can suction up stains, even in hard to reach places.
The Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner comes with removable water tanks that make filling and emptying the machine much easier. This is a unique feature for cleaners of its size.
With the purchase of this cleaner, you will also receive a trial size Bissell Pro Max Clean and Protect formula, as well as 8 ounces of Oxy Boost. For all these items, you will be paying a pretty low price. Those on a budget will probably love this product because it is highly effective yet much more affordable than full sized cleaners.
I bought my truck used and the seats were basically brown. After using this awesome product they turned gray. I used this product with Gain cleaner and the Oxy Booster.
Zedwag
Of course, a carpet cleaner specifically designed for small messes is not suitable if you want to clean out your entire carpet. You will want to buy a full size cleaner if you want to target your entire home instead of individual stains.
Aside from the inability to clean out the entire carpet, the Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner is a great choice. If you are deciding between this portable option and the Bissel Little Green Plus Carpet Cleaner, this one is better in terms of performance, though it is a bit more expensive.
Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner Specifications
- Brand: Bissel
- Weight: Not listed
- Warranty: 5 year limited
Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Highly effective for spot cleaning
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Long warranty
Cons
Cons
- Not suited for cleaning your entire home
Our Final Opinion About the Bissel 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner
Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.7 out of 5.0 stars
The Bissell 2891B SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner is a heavy-duty small spot cleaner. Even though it is not suited for cleaning your entire home, it certainly can clean out heavy stains whenever you catch them.
Presentation of the Bissell Portable Carpet Cleaner
The Convenient Pick
Bissel
When full-sized carpet cleaners are just too large and unwieldy for certain messes, the Bissel portable carpet cleaner is the product to choose to supplement your full-carpet cleaning. It is designed with convenience and portability in mind, but it doesn’t sacrifice cleaning quality to do so.
What We Think of the Bissell Portable Carpet Cleaner
There are a lot of convenient features to appreciate about this Bissell carpet cleaner. Its hose-less, cordless operation makes it incredibly easy to maneuver around the home and even take it outside for outdoor cushions or stain-removal in your car. It weighs only 7 lbs, so you shouldn’t have any trouble working with it for an extended time, depending on how many stains have been left to sit.
The rotating brush on this model is fairly unique, since most compact products like this do not have a brush that rotates. This feature makes it incredibly effective at removing stains, even ones that have been there for a while. The added sophistication of this product does increase its price a bit, but it is not unreasonable. The 2-year warranty is a great backup if the product does not meet expectations.
I am really quite pleased with the performance of this little carpet cleaner. I foster rescue dogs quite frequently, and they are prone to having accidents in the house while they are decompressing and settling in. This cordless, handheld model makes it really easy to get the stains out of the carpet really quickly, and I always feel very prepared to keep my house clean and safe for the new animals.
cassidy p.
This product will come with two samples of cleaning solution. This solution does not need to be mixed with water, and it can even be stored safely in the tank, so you can get right to stain removal as soon as accidents happen. Once you try this formula, we are certain you’ll love it. Your purchase will also help rescue-dog efforts, so if that is an important cause to you, this product is a no brainer.
Bissell Portable Carpet Cleaner Specifications
- Cord: Cordless
- Weight: 7 lbs
- Warranty: 2 years
- Dimensions: 16.5” x 5.7” x 8.5”
Bissell Portable Carpet Cleaner Pros and Cons
Pros
Pros
- Rotating brush is highly effective at removing stains
- Cordless design is incredibly convenient
- Compact, handheld design makes for great portability
- Ready-to-use cleaning formula can be stored in the tank without causing damage (comes with two sample bottles)
Cons
Cons
- Little bit pricey for a small unit
- Not ideal for full-carpet cleaning
Our Final Opinion About the Bissell Portable Carpet Cleaner
Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars
Overall, the Bissel portable carpet cleaner is the best choice for people who need excellent stain-removal capabilities in a smaller unit. Your purchase will support rescue dogs, and the compactness of this model ensures you can tackle stains anywhere they appear.
Why Should You Trust Us?
All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone.
What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?
- Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
- Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
- Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
- Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?
In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.
In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.
Things to Know Before Buying a Carpet Cleaner
Is a carpet cleaner different from a vacuum?
Absolutely it is. A carpet cleaner or carpet shampooer might resemble a vacuum cleaner, but the equipment and purpose are completely different. Carpet cleaners are designed to clean stains and ingrained dirt using water and a cleaning solution, along with scrubbing brushes and suction. Your carpets are scrubbed by the machine as it travels over the area, rather than simply sucking up loose dirt and hair like a traditional vacuum.
Will my carpet cleaner replace my vacuum?
No. it is actually recommended that you vacuum the are first before using a carpet cleaner. The cleaner is not designed to suck up hair and loose dirt, it is meant for scrubbing and water extraction. You’ll still need a regular vacuum in your arsenal, especially for weekly cleaning.
Will I be able to use my living room after I use my carpet cleaner?
The short answer here is no. Every machine has a different dry time, but you should expect your carpets to remain damp for at least 4 hours after a wash. You can use fans or open windows or doors to improve drying time by an hour or more.
Do I need a pet carpet cleaner if I have pets?
Nearly every brand of carpet cleaner does have models designed for pets, but that doesn’t mean a traditional model won’t be able to clean your carpets of pet messes. However, some machines do have a different cleaning solution or piece of equipment that makes it more effective against those certain types of stains.
Does a carpet cleaner remove stain odors too?
Yes, they do! Even though some carpet cleaners can be used without solution and still clean a recent stain, the odor might last. The cleaning solution is designed to help eliminate odors too, so using the recommended cleaning solution for your machine will better remove any associated odors.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using my carpet cleaner?
Over-wetting your carpet is the most common mistake made be new users. If the carpet remains damp for 24 hours or more, mold and mildew can begin to grow. Make sure you follow the machine’s instructions to ensure that it can suck up most of the water it lays down.
Using the right brand and type of cleaning solution for your machine is recommended snce the wrong brand may damage the coating in the machine.
Also, be sure to use the recommended solution/water ratios if your machine does not automatically dose for you.
How to Properly Choose Your Carpet Cleaner
Even the most affordable carpet cleaners are still an investment, so choosing the right one is really important. Here is everything you should consider t make sure you choose the right carpet cleaner.
- What type of carpets do you have?
Some carpets are more prone to damage than others, so if you have wool rugs, oriental rugs, sisal rugs, or others, make sure you choose a machine that is gentle when cleaning to avoid wrecking your carpet.
- Cleaning Schedule.
If you plan on using your carpet cleaner regularly, you’ll need a different model than you would for the odd small stain. How you plan to use your carpet cleaner will be a deciding factor when choosing between a portable or upright carpet cleaner, as well as the quality of the machine.
- Weight of the machine.
Carpet cleaners range from roughly 10 lbs to more than 50lbs, and they can gain 6-15 pounds when full of water. The weight of the machine makes a difference in cleaning power, motor strength, and its versatility. You wouldn’t want to lug a 45lb machine up a flight of stairs, let alone try to clean the stairs holding onto that carpet cleaner, so make sure you choose a carpet cleaner with a weight you know you can handle.
- Attachments.
Some carpet cleaners are made for carpets only, and some have a variety of attachments for stairs, vehicles, and upholstery. Some machines even have attachments for pet-friendly homes. If you want to clean other surfaces besides your carpet, make sure your machine has all the right attachments. The length of the hose is also an important factor here.
- Special features.
Ease of use is incredibly important with machines like carpet cleaners. Features like automatic cleaning, automatic mixing, special brushes, heated cleaning, and more are all important when choosing your carpet cleaner. You need to decide which features are important to you and which you can do without.
- Ease of cleaning.
Cleaning your machine after use is crucial for extending the life of your carpet cleaner. Easily removable tanks, attachments, and brushes are important for thoroughly cleaning the machine. It might not seem like a huge deal, but it will get frustrating after a while If these components are difficult to remove and reattach.
We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of carpet cleaners allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.
