10 Best Lightweight Carpet Cleaner 2025 in the United States

The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is a handy tool for anyone looking to tackle stains and odors in various surfaces, particularly for homes with pets. Weighing in at 9.65 pounds, it strikes a balance between being lightweight and robust, making it easy to carry around for home or auto cleaning tasks. Its 48 oz. tank capacity is impressive, allowing for prolonged cleaning sessions without frequent refills, which is a plus for larger jobs. The powerful suction really shines when dealing with tough stains, and the included tools, like the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool and the Tough Stain Tool, enhance its versatility. The machine’s ability to work on carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors makes it a multi-functional choice for cleaning enthusiasts.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. The corded power source could limit mobility compared to cordless models, as you'll need to stay near a power outlet. Additionally, while the device is designed to be portable, some might find it less compact than expected when in use due to its dimensions and the need to manage the cord.

This cleaner is well-suited for pet owners or anyone needing a reliable solution for upholstery and carpet cleaning. Just keep in mind its corded design when considering your cleaning needs.

The Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum (HV301) is an excellent choice for those who need a lightweight carpet cleaner. Weighing just 7.6 pounds, it is easy to carry around and even converts into a handheld vacuum for versatile cleaning from floor to ceiling. The vacuum's suction power is robust enough for both carpet and hard floor cleaning, with fingertip controls that make switching between surfaces a breeze. Its swivel steering feature allows for excellent maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces, making cleaning less of a chore.

The vacuum's cleaning path width is 8.5 inches, which is wide enough to cover a good amount of space but may require more passes in larger areas. The 0.31-quart dust cup capacity means you might need to empty it more frequently, especially in bigger cleaning jobs. Its cord length and included tools like the upholstery tool, anti-allergen dust brush, and crevice tool add to its versatility, though the cord could be longer for better reach.

The vacuum also boasts a HEPA filter, which is great for trapping allergens. However, it is not cordless, so you’ll need to manage the power cord while cleaning. This vacuum is particularly suited for those who want a lightweight, easy-to-use vacuum with good suction power and versatility for various surfaces and tight spaces.

The Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner is a solid choice for anyone looking to maintain their carpets with ease. Weighing in at 18.5 pounds, it strikes a decent balance between being lightweight and still offering powerful cleaning capabilities. Its 3.8-liter tank capacity is generous, allowing for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills. The DualV® Nozzle ensures even suction across surfaces, which enhances its cleaning efficiency.

One of the standout features is the SpinScrub® Technology, which uses counter-rotating brushes to provide a 360-degree clean, directly targeting carpet fibers. This is particularly useful for removing tough stains and ensuring a thorough clean. Moreover, the product comes with an 8-foot hose and upholstery tool, making it easier to tackle stairs and hard-to-reach areas, which is a significant plus for maintaining the entire home.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. While the Smart Tank™ system makes filling and emptying easier, some users may find the weight still a bit cumbersome for prolonged use, especially on stairs. Additionally, being corded means you're limited by the length of the power cord, which may require frequent repositioning during use. Another point to note is that the assembly may require some initial effort, which isn't ideal for everyone. It's also worth mentioning that, although it's marketed for deep cleaning, some users have reported that it might not be as effective on very old or heavily soiled carpets without multiple passes. The Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe is a reliable and effective carpet cleaner, ideal for homeowners looking for a balance of ease and power in carpet maintenance. It excels in features geared toward versatility and convenience, making it a great choice for regular cleaning tasks.