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10 Best Carpet Cleaners 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet Upholstery & Area Rug Cleaner, Bonus XL Tool & Full-Size Cleaning Solution, Stain & Odor Remover, Perfect for Car Interiors, 4 Cleaning Tools, Nordic Blue, PX202BRN

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,321
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
6142 reviews

Cleaning Power
This little machine is amazing! The suction is strong and it does not leave that soapy wet spot.
Water Tank Capacity
It's a little big, but the large capacity for both cleaner and dirty water allows for extended cleaning sessions.
Attachments and Accessories
Better than Bissell! It managed to get every stain out and has much better attachments, including a wider head and scrub brush.
Ease of Maintenance
The brush heads come apart for easy cleaning, and the cleaning solution smells better and works better.

The Shark Carpet Cleaner Machine, specifically the Portable Upholstery StainStriker model, is designed to eliminate tough stains and odors from a variety of surfaces including carpets, area rugs, couches, and cars. Its standout feature is the dual-activated stain eliminator which combines two cleaning formulas to tackle even the most stubborn stains and odors without the need for premixing. This makes it particularly suitable for households with pets, as it effectively removes pet urine and smoke odors.

The cleaner is also highly versatile, thanks to its powerful suction that can deep-clean and revive various surfaces, making them look like new again. Weighing under 9 lbs, it is lightweight and compact, ensuring easy maneuverability and storage. The machine comes with multiple attachments like a crevice tool, reversible bristle tools, and a pet tool, adding to its flexibility and targeted cleaning capabilities.

Additionally, it includes two types of cleaning solutions - the Deep Clean Pro Formula and the OXY Multiplier Formula for different cleaning needs. Maintenance is straightforward as well, with no batteries required and components that can be hand-washed. A possible downside might be the water tank capacity of 2 liters, which could require frequent refills during extensive cleaning sessions. Despite this, the ease of use, powerful cleaning performance, and range of included accessories make the Shark Carpet Cleaner Machine an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a clean and fresh home environment, especially for pet owners.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,321
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
6142 reviews

Cleaning Power
This little machine is amazing! The suction is strong and it does not leave that soapy wet spot.
Water Tank Capacity
It's a little big, but the large capacity for both cleaner and dirty water allows for extended cleaning sessions.
Attachments and Accessories
Better than Bissell! It managed to get every stain out and has much better attachments, including a wider head and scrub brush.
Ease of Maintenance
The brush heads come apart for easy cleaning, and the cleaning solution smells better and works better.
#2

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

Rating
10.0
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
96959 reviews

Cleaning Power
The powerful suction effectively tackles spills and pet accidents, making it an essential tool for households with kids and pets.
Water Tank Capacity
The 48 oz water tank capacity allows for handling larger messes without frequent refills.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its compact size and light weight make it highly portable and easy to carry around for various cleaning tasks.
Ease of Maintenance
Easy to clean and maintain, with parts that are simple to pull apart and rinse.

The Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner is a versatile and powerful cleaning tool designed to tackle tough pet stains and odors on various surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, and car interiors. Its compact and portable design makes it easy to maneuver and store, weighing only 9.7 pounds. The cleaner comes with a large 48 oz water tank, allowing for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills.

The powerful suction effectively removes stubborn spots, making it ideal for households with pets. Additionally, the cleaner includes useful attachments like the 3" Tough Stain Tool and the Stain Trapper Tool, as well as trial-size cleaning formulas to enhance the cleaning experience. One notable advantage is its contribution to the BISSELL Pet Foundation, supporting a noble cause with every purchase.

However, the corded power source may limit mobility, and some users might find the drying time longer than expected. Maintenance is straightforward with the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool, but manual cleaning of some components is necessary. It is a solid choice for pet owners and anyone needing a reliable and portable carpet cleaning solution.

Rating
10.0
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
96959 reviews

Cleaning Power
The powerful suction effectively tackles spills and pet accidents, making it an essential tool for households with kids and pets.
Water Tank Capacity
The 48 oz water tank capacity allows for handling larger messes without frequent refills.
Weight and Maneuverability
Its compact size and light weight make it highly portable and easy to carry around for various cleaning tasks.
Ease of Maintenance
Easy to clean and maintain, with parts that are simple to pull apart and rinse.
#3

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

Rating
9.9
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
96959 reviews

Cleaning Power
This little machine is a stain-fighting BEAST, effortlessly tackling red wine stains, coffee spills, and ground-in dirt.
Water Tank Capacity
The tank, though smaller than a full-size cleaner, holds enough to clean multiple spots before needing a refill.
Weight and Maneuverability
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, perfect for spot cleaning or tackling stairs and car interiors.
Ease of Maintenance
Setup and operation are a breeze with simple and intuitive controls.

The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, model 1400B, stands out in the carpet cleaner category, particularly for pet owners and those needing a compact solution for tough stains. One of its key strengths is its powerful suction capability, which effectively removes stubborn stains from various surfaces, including carpets and vehicle interiors. Its portable design makes it easy to maneuver around the house or take it along for car detailing, enhancing its versatility.

The 48 oz. water tank capacity is another plus, allowing for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills. Additionally, the product comes with useful attachments like the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool and a Tough Stain Tool, which aid in maintaining the cleaner itself and tackling specific cleaning tasks.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. Despite its robust performance, the BISSELL Little Green is corded, which can limit mobility during use compared to cordless options. Weighing about 9.7 pounds, it may be a little heavy for some users, especially for prolonged cleaning tasks. Also, while it does a great job removing stains, the drying time can vary depending on the surface and cleaning method, which might be a concern for those needing quick results. Individuals looking for a portable and effective carpet cleaner, especially those with pets, will find the BISSELL Little Green a commendable choice, combining convenience and cleaning power but with some limitations in mobility and drying speed.

Rating
9.9
Cleaning Power
Water Tank Capacity
Weight and Maneuverability

Most important from
96959 reviews

Cleaning Power
This little machine is a stain-fighting BEAST, effortlessly tackling red wine stains, coffee spills, and ground-in dirt.
Water Tank Capacity
The tank, though smaller than a full-size cleaner, holds enough to clean multiple spots before needing a refill.
Weight and Maneuverability
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, perfect for spot cleaning or tackling stairs and car interiors.
Ease of Maintenance
Setup and operation are a breeze with simple and intuitive controls.

Buying Guide for the Best Carpet Cleaners

Choosing the right carpet cleaner can make a significant difference in maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. Carpet cleaners come in various types and with different features, so it's important to understand what to look for to find the best fit for your needs. Consider the size of the area you need to clean, the type of carpet you have, and any specific cleaning requirements you might have, such as dealing with pet stains or high-traffic areas.
Type of Carpet CleanerThere are several types of carpet cleaners, including upright, canister, and portable spot cleaners. Upright cleaners are best for large areas and deep cleaning, while canister models offer more flexibility and are easier to maneuver. Portable spot cleaners are ideal for small stains and quick clean-ups. Choose the type based on the size of the area you need to clean and the frequency of use.
Cleaning PowerCleaning power is determined by the motor's strength and the efficiency of the brushes. Higher wattage motors generally provide more suction and better cleaning performance. Look for carpet cleaners with dual or multiple brushes, as they can agitate the carpet fibers more effectively, lifting dirt and stains. If you have heavily soiled carpets or high-traffic areas, opt for a cleaner with higher cleaning power.
Water Tank CapacityThe water tank capacity affects how often you need to refill the cleaner during use. Larger tanks mean fewer interruptions, which is beneficial for cleaning large areas. However, larger tanks also make the cleaner heavier and potentially harder to maneuver. For small to medium-sized areas, a medium tank capacity should suffice, while larger areas may require a larger tank.
Drying TimeDrying time is influenced by the carpet cleaner's suction power and the efficiency of its water extraction. Faster drying times are preferable as they reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth. Look for models with strong suction and features like heated drying to speed up the process. If you need to use the carpet soon after cleaning, prioritize a cleaner with a shorter drying time.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight and maneuverability of a carpet cleaner are important for ease of use. Lighter models are easier to carry and move around, especially if you have multiple floors or need to clean stairs. However, lighter models may have smaller tanks and less powerful motors. Consider your physical ability and the layout of your home when choosing the weight and maneuverability of the cleaner.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the versatility of your carpet cleaner. Common attachments include upholstery tools, crevice tools, and stair tools. These can help you clean furniture, tight spaces, and stairs more effectively. If you have pets, look for models with specialized pet tools to tackle pet hair and stains. Choose a cleaner with the attachments that match your specific cleaning needs.
Ease of MaintenanceEase of maintenance is crucial for the longevity and performance of your carpet cleaner. Look for models with removable and washable parts, such as brushes and tanks, to make cleaning and maintenance easier. Some models have self-cleaning features that can save you time and effort. Consider how easy it is to access and clean the various components of the cleaner before making your decision.

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