10 Best Rug Shampooers 2025 in the United States

The Bissell Little Green Mini is a compact and lightweight portable cleaner designed for spot cleaning carpets, upholstery, car interiors, and pet areas. Weighing 7 pounds and featuring a small 16-ounce water tank, it is easy to carry and maneuver, making it ideal for quick cleanups rather than large carpeted areas. Its cleaning power is solid for targeted stains, especially with the included 4-inch Tough Stain Tool and HydroRinse self-cleaning hose, which help tackle tough spots and simplify maintenance.

This corded cleaner eliminates concerns about battery life, though its small tank requires frequent refills if used on bigger messes. Drying time is moderate since it’s a wet cleaner; surfaces won’t dry instantly and need some time after use. Noise levels are typical for deep cleaners but not overly loud. The included cleaning formula effectively removes stains and odors, and storage is easy thanks to its compact size. Ideal for pet owners and car enthusiasts, it provides a handy, portable solution for spot cleaning rather than deep, whole-room carpet shampooing.

The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner (model 1400B) is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable rug-shampooer, especially pet owners. Its powerful suction makes it effective at removing tough spots and stains from various surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors. This feature is particularly beneficial for households with pets, as it helps tackle both stains and odors efficiently using the Spot & Stain formula combined with Febreze freshness.

With a large 48 oz. water tank, you can clean more before needing to refill, which is a significant advantage for larger jobs. The portable and versatile design also ensures that you can easily maneuver it around your home and even take it to your vehicle.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. Weighing in at 9.65 pounds, it’s not the lightest option out there, which might make prolonged use a bit tiring for some users. Additionally, being corded limits where you can use it without needing an outlet, though the cord length is generally suitable for most cleaning tasks. The included accessories like the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool and Tough Stain Tool enhance its usability and maintenance, but the self-cleaning feature requires diligence after every use to maintain optimal performance. In terms of noise, while it operates within a reasonable range, it may be a bit louder than expected during operation, especially in a quiet environment. The BISSELL Little Green is a robust option for those needing effective cleaning solutions for carpets and upholstery, particularly advantageous for pet owners, but potential buyers should consider its weight and corded design when assessing their cleaning needs.

The Shark CarpetXpert HairPro is a strong choice if you're looking for a carpet shampooer that handles pet hair and tough stains well. It uses high-pressure spray and powerful suction to clean deeply, especially effective on carpets, area rugs, and upholstery. Thanks to its HairPro technology, it picks up embedded pet hair without tangling, which is a common frustration with other cleaners. The built-in spot and stain remover is handy for stubborn marks, making it a good pick for homes with pets.

The water tank holds about 29 ounces, which is decent but might require refilling during large cleaning jobs. One benefit is the ultra-fast drying time, which helps your carpets dry quickly without soaking them too much. The machine weighs around 20.7 pounds—lighter than some heavy-duty models—so it should be manageable to push around, although it’s not the lightest option available. It comes with two cleaning tools that help clean tight spots and upholstery, adding to its versatility. Maintenance seems straightforward, and it includes a pet-specific cleaning formula that also helps neutralize odors, like pet urine and smoke. Assembly is required but should be simple.

This cleaner is well-suited for pet owners and anyone needing a deeper, more thorough clean from their carpet shampooer. If you prioritize very large water tanks or ultra-lightweight machines, you might want to explore other options.