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 PX201 StainStriker Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner is a versatile tool designed for tackling tough stains and odors across various surfaces including carpets, area rugs, couches, upholstery, and even cars. Weighing under 9 lbs, it is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it convenient for whole-home cleaning and easy storage. The dual-activated stain eliminator, which does not require premixing, enhances its cleaning power, particularly for stubborn stains and odors like pet urine and smoke.

The built-in powerful suction helps in pulling out embedded dirt and liquid, leaving surfaces looking refreshed. The inclusion of three attachments (a crevice tool, a reversible bristle tool, and a pet tool) adds to its versatility and effectiveness on different surfaces. Its effectiveness is notably highlighted when using Shark's proprietary cleaning solutions, potentially limiting its performance with other brands. The Shark PX201 StainStriker stands out as a powerful and efficient option for pet owners and households needing a reliable spot and stain cleaner.

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.