10 Best Budget Carpet Cleaner 2026 in the United States

The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, model 1400B, is a budget-friendly option that offers powerful suction for removing tough spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, and car interiors. A notable strength is its large 48 oz. water tank capacity, which allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills. Weighing 9.7 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to maneuver around the house and carry up and down stairs.

The included specialty tools, like the 3" tough stain tool and HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool, enhance its versatility and usability. The brush system is effective in agitating and lifting stains, but some users may find it less efficient on deeply embedded dirt compared to larger machines. The drying time can vary depending on the surface and stain, but the suction power generally helps to reduce moisture quickly. Ease of use is another strong point, with no assembly required and simple care instructions to follow.

Additionally, every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, which is a nice bonus for pet lovers. However, as a corded device, it might limit mobility compared to cordless models. It's also worth noting that while it’s highly rated with a 4.5-star average from over 92,000 reviews, its performance might not match that of larger, more expensive cleaners for heavier-duty tasks. This cleaner is ideal for those seeking a portable, easy-to-use solution for tackling everyday pet messes and minor stains in a budget-friendly package.

The BISSELL Little Green Mini is a compact and lightweight carpet and upholstery cleaner, weighing just 7 pounds, making it very easy to carry around and store in small spaces. It has a water tank capacity of 16 ounces, which is suitable for tackling small stains and quick cleanups, especially in cars or furniture. The cleaning power is solid for a budget model, using a 4-inch tough stain tool that sprays, scrubs, and suctions to remove dirt, pet stains, and odors effectively. It also includes a HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, which helps keep the machine hygienic and ready for the next use.

This cleaner is ideal for spot cleaning and smaller jobs, though the limited tank size means it isn’t suited for large carpeted areas or deep whole-room cleaning sessions. Drying time varies depending on the surface and usage but can be longer compared to more powerful machines, so patience is needed. Its ease of use is a strong point, with no assembly required and corded electric power ensuring consistent suction without the need to worry about battery life.

The product is especially appealing to pet owners, as BISSELL supports pet rescue efforts and the formula included targets pet odors and stains. It is well suited for those needing a portable, effective solution for small spills, car interiors, or upholstery, while those seeking heavy-duty home carpet cleaning might find it limited in water capacity and cleaning reach.

The Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain & Strong Odor Eliminator is a liquid carpet cleaner designed mainly for pet owners dealing with tough stains and odors like urine, feces, and vomit. It uses enzymes to break down organic messes, which makes it quite effective at removing not just visible stains but also lingering smells. This product is certified safe for use around pets and children, and it won’t damage carpet colors, which is a big plus for anyone worried about harsh chemicals. The 1-gallon bottle offers a large supply, making it a practical choice for homes with multiple pets or frequent messes.

Since this is a spray solution rather than a machine, it doesn’t include features like brushes or water tanks, and it relies on manual application and drying, so users should expect some drying time after use. It’s lightweight enough to handle easily, but you’ll need to apply it carefully to treat stains thoroughly.

Users appreciate its strong deodorizing power and ease of use without complicated setup, though it may not replace deeper cleaning machines if your carpet needs more intensive washing. This enzyme cleaner is ideal for pet owners looking for a budget-friendly, safe, and effective spray to tackle stains and odors on carpets and other surfaces without extra equipment.