10 Best Small Carpet Cleaners 2025 in the United States

The Shark Carpet Cleaner Machine, also known as the StainStriker, is a strong contender in the small-carpet-cleaners category, especially for homes with pets. Weighing under 9 lbs and with a tank capacity of 2 liters, it is lightweight and easy to maneuver. Its powerful suction ensures that liquid and dirt are effectively removed from carpets, area rugs, couches, and upholstery, making them look almost new. This machine is particularly beneficial for eliminating tough stains and odors, including pet urine and smoke, thanks to its dual-activated stain eliminator formula that doesn’t require pre-mixing.

The included 4 tools—crevice tool, 3.5” reversible bristle tool, 7” wide path tool, and pet tool—provide versatility for different cleaning needs, from tight spots to broader surfaces. However, there are a few points to consider. The power source is battery-powered, which may limit usage time compared to corded models. Additionally, some users might find the maintenance a bit demanding, as hand washing is required for cleaning.

Despite these minor drawbacks, its ease of storage, effective cleaning solutions, and comprehensive attachments make it a great choice for those in need of a reliable and versatile carpet cleaner, particularly in pet-friendly homes.

The Bissell Little Green Mini is a compact and lightweight portable carpet cleaner that works well for small cleaning tasks, especially on upholstery, car interiors, and pet-related messes. Its 16-ounce tank capacity is on the smaller side, making it best suited for quick spot cleaning rather than large areas. Weighing 7 pounds, it is easy to carry and maneuver, which makes it convenient for tight spaces or car detailing.

The included 4-inch Tough Stain Tool allows it to handle narrow spots efficiently, although it might take longer to cover bigger surfaces. This model offers a single power level with decent suction for its size, efficiently removing embedded dirt and pet stains. The HydroRinse self-cleaning hose is a handy feature that simplifies maintenance and keeps the machine ready for the next use. While the unit is not cordless and requires an outlet nearby, it comes with useful accessories like stain and self-cleaning tools and a small bottle of cleaning solution designed to remove odors and stains permanently.

Storage is simple due to its compact size. The smaller tank means frequent refilling for bigger jobs, and the single power level may limit deep cleaning on heavier soils. This cleaner excels in portability and ease of use, making it ideal for pet owners or anyone needing a quick, focused cleaning solution rather than a full-room carpet cleaner.

The Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe is a portable carpet cleaner designed for pet owners and anyone needing to tackle tough stains on various surfaces. One of its standout features is the powerful suction that effectively removes pet spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, and car interiors. With a generous 48 oz. tank capacity, users can clean larger areas without frequent refills, which is a real time-saver.

This cleaner is also designed to be versatile and user-friendly. Weighing only 9.7 pounds, it's portable enough to carry around the house or even take in the car for cleaning on-the-go. It includes a variety of attachments, such as a Tough Stain Tool and a Stain Trapper Tool, along with a sample cleaning formula, making it well-equipped for a range of cleaning tasks.

There are some aspects to consider. The power cord length may limit movement in larger rooms, and while the cleaner is efficient for quick spot cleaning and small areas, it may not suit those looking for a deep clean across larger carpets. Additionally, while the unit is easy to use, maintenance involves a bit of hand washing, which some might find inconvenient.