10 Best Carpet Cleaners 2025 in the United States

The Bissell Little Green Mini is a compact, portable carpet and upholstery cleaner ideal for quick spot cleaning on carpets, car interiors, pet beds, and upholstery. It offers solid cleaning power to handle spills, pet stains, and embedded dirt with its 4" Tough Stain Tool and a self-cleaning HydroRinse hose, which helps keep the machine in good shape with less hassle.

The water tank holds about 16 ounces, so it’s best for smaller jobs, not large room cleaning. Weighing 7 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to carry around, fitting comfortably in small storage spaces. It runs on corded power with one cleaning setting, keeping things simple but limiting flexibility for tougher messes.

Drying time should be expected to be moderate, typical for this size device. Maintenance is straightforward thanks to the self-cleaning tool and removable parts. For those seeking a portable cleaner mainly for spot treatments, cars, or upholstery, this Bissell model is practical, easy to use, and effective, although it might not be the best choice for deep cleaning large carpets or heavy-duty use due to its small tank and single power level.

The Shark CarpetXpert HairPro with StainStriker is an upright carpet cleaner designed for deep cleaning carpets, rugs, and upholstery, making it particularly suitable for homes with pets or high traffic areas. Its standout feature is the high-speed brushroll combined with PowerSpray high-pressure spray and powerful suction, which ensures effective dirt and grime removal. The StainStriker technology is impressive for tackling tough stains, including pet stains, using a powerful OXY formula.

Moreover, the HairPro technology is highly effective at picking up deeply embedded pet hair without clogging or hair wrapping, which is a common issue with other carpet cleaners. This model also eliminates odors instantly, which is beneficial for households with pets or smokers. The handheld spot and stain eliminator extends the cleaner's reach to stairs and upholstery, adding to its versatility.

However, at 20.72 pounds, it may be considered heavy for some users, potentially affecting maneuverability. The built-in self-cleaning feature is a great addition, making maintenance easier by cleaning the tool and hose automatically. It also comes with a variety of accessories and cleaning solutions, adding value. Although it offers powerful cleaning capabilities, the weight and size might not be ideal for everyone, especially those looking for a more lightweight and compact option.

The Hoover PowerScrub XL Pet Carpet Cleaner is a solid choice for anyone looking to deeply clean carpets and upholstery, especially pet owners. Its 0.8-gallon tank capacity allows you to cover a good amount of area before needing to refill, which helps reduce interruptions. The machine features five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes that provide thorough cleaning by scrubbing carpets effectively from different angles. Additionally, its HeatForce technology speeds up drying, so your carpets aren’t left wet for too long. Weighing about 12 pounds, it strikes a balance between being heavy enough for effective cleaning and light enough to carry around your home without too much effort.

This model includes useful tools like a pet tool for tough pet stains and an upholstery tool for cleaning furniture, making it versatile beyond just floors. The patented TruMAX recovery tank system helps you clean longer by holding more dirty water, and the Quick Clean mode is handy for faster jobs. One thoughtful feature is the Auto Mix system, which automatically mixes and dispenses cleaning solution for you, simplifying the process. Cleanup and maintenance are made easier with included accessories such as a nozzle cleanout tool.

As a corded machine, it requires a power outlet nearby, which may limit mobility a bit compared to cordless models. Also, while 12 pounds is manageable, it might feel a bit bulky for some users during extended cleaning sessions. The PowerScrub XL pairs best with Hoover’s cleaning solutions, including formulas designed specifically for pet messes. If you need a reliable, multi-purpose carpet cleaner that handles pet stains well and dries faster than many competitors, this model delivers good value and performance.