10 Best Rug Shampooers 2025 in the United States

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 Carpet Cleaner Machine, model PX202BRN, is a versatile and portable solution for tackling tough stains and odors on carpets, area rugs, and upholstery. Its standout feature is the dual-activated stain eliminator, which requires no premixing and provides robust cleaning power suitable for heavy-duty tasks, including pet stains and odors. At under 9 lbs, it is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it convenient for cleaning various areas around the home. The machine comes bundled with a range of useful tools, including a crevice tool and pet-specific attachments, enhancing its practicality for diverse cleaning needs.

This rug-shampooer boasts a 2-liter water tank capacity, which is decent for small to medium cleaning tasks but may require frequent refills for larger spaces. While the suction power is commendable for deep cleaning, the drying time may vary depending on the material and extent of cleaning, which could be a factor for some users.

In terms of maintenance, the Shark cleaner is relatively user-friendly, with hand wash care instructions for components ensuring longevity. Despite its robust cleaning capabilities, the model's effectiveness is further enhanced by the included cleaning solutions, though users will need to replenish these over time. This machine is particularly beneficial for pet owners and those needing a reliable tool for spot cleaning and maintenance of smaller areas. It ranks highly in customer satisfaction, indicating a generally positive user experience. Potential buyers should consider the water tank size relative to their cleaning needs, and the ongoing cost of cleaning solutions. The Shark Carpet Cleaner Machine offers a strong combination of power, versatility, and ease of use, making it a suitable choice for everyday household cleaning tasks.

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.