10 Best Carpet Shampooers 2025 in the United States

The Shark Carpet Cleaner Machine, also known as the Shark StainStriker, excels in eliminating tough stains and odors from various surfaces like carpets, area rugs, upholstery, and even cars. Its dual-activated formula provides powerful stain removal without the need for premixing, making it convenient and highly effective. The machine boasts strong suction power, ensuring deep cleaning that can revive even the dirtiest carpets and furniture, which is especially useful for pet owners dealing with stubborn pet stains and odors.

At a lightweight 8.51 pounds, it is easy to maneuver around the house and can be stored conveniently after use. The 2-liter water tank is sufficient for tackling most household cleaning tasks without frequent refills, and the drying time is reasonably quick given its powerful suction capabilities. The Shark StainStriker comes with a variety of useful attachments, including a crevice tool, bristle tools, and a pet tool, which enhance its versatility for different cleaning scenarios.

Additionally, it includes two cleaning solutions that further boost its stain-fighting power. Maintenance is straightforward, as the machine requires only hand washing of its components. However, one limitation to consider is the manual maintenance involved, which might be a bit cumbersome for some users. This carpet cleaner is a solid choice for anyone looking for a portable, powerful, and versatile cleaning solution, particularly those dealing with pet-related messes.

The Bissell Little Green Mini is a compact and portable carpet and upholstery cleaner well-suited for small cleaning jobs like car interiors, pet beds, and upholstery rather than large carpeted areas. It offers solid cleaning power with its spray, scrub, and suction combo, effectively tackling stains and odors using Bissell’s Little Green Formula. The 16-ounce water tank is on the small side, meaning you may need to refill it frequently during extended use.

Its lightweight design at 7 pounds makes it easy to maneuver and store, especially in tight spaces. The included 4-inch Tough Stain Tool and HydroRinse self-cleaning hose accessory enhance its ability to clean tough spots and simplify maintenance by keeping the hose clear of buildup. While it doesn't have multiple power levels or cordless convenience, its single power setting keeps operation straightforward.

Drying time will depend on the cleaned surface but is typical for machines of this size. This cleaner is best for anyone needing a portable, easy-to-use spot cleaner for small messes rather than a full-room carpet shampooer. It’s particularly handy for pet owners or car detailers who want an efficient, compact tool without complex features.

The Shark StainStriker is a lightweight and portable carpet and upholstery cleaner designed especially for tackling tough stains and pet messes. It stands out with its strong cleaning power, thanks to a dual-activated formula that removes stains 20 times better than some other solutions. This makes it a great choice for pet owners or anyone dealing with stubborn spots on carpets, furniture, or even car interiors. Its suction is powerful enough to pull embedded dirt out, helping to restore surfaces to a like-new look.

The water tank capacity is modest at about 0.18 gallons, so while it’s easy to carry around and use in tight spaces, frequent refilling might be needed for larger cleaning jobs. The machine is compact and weighs just under 9 pounds, making it easy to maneuver and store, although it may not cover large areas quickly compared to bigger models. It includes several attachments like a pet mess tool, stain eliminators, and a crevice tool, which add versatility for different cleaning needs. Maintenance is straightforward, mostly involving hand-washing parts.

Since it’s powered by AC/DC, there’s no need to worry about batteries, but a power outlet will be required. The drying time can be longer with portable units of this size. For spot cleaning pet stains and small-to-medium surfaces with easy handling and effective stain removal, the Shark StainStriker is a fitting choice. For deep cleaning very large areas or heavy-duty carpet shampooing, a larger unit may be more efficient.