Keeping your carpet spotless is super important for folks in houses or apartments. It not only makes your place look *sparkling clean* but also helps carpets last longer. But, professional carpet cleaning costs an **arm and a leg** and eats up a ton of time. That’s why **portable carpet cleaners** are a total game-changer.
Portable carpet cleaners are compact machines that can be easily moved around the house and used to clean carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors. They are an excellent alternative to traditional carpet cleaning methods, as they are more affordable, efficient, and convenient.
When shopping for the best portable carpet cleaner, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the machine’s suction power. A powerful suction ensures that the machine can effectively remove dirt, stains, and debris from your carpets. The second factor is the machine’s water tank capacity. A larger water tank means you can clean more area without having to refill the tank frequently. Finally, you should consider the machine’s weight and size. A lightweight and compact machine is easier to move around and store.
We spent hours researching and testing various portable carpet cleaners to determine the ones that are worth your investment. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at our top picks and what makes them stand out.
Best Portable Carpet Cleaners
We understand that keeping your carpets clean can be a challenging task, especially when you have pets or kids around. That’s why we have scoured the market to bring you the best portable carpet cleaners that will make your life easier. These machines are designed to remove dirt, stains, and odors from carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors. Whether you need a cleaner for your home or office, we have got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Auto Detailer, with Exclusive Specialty Tools, Green, 1400B
If you’re looking for a portable carpet cleaner that can handle pet messes and stains, the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is a great choice.
Pros
- The powerful suction makes it easy to remove tough pet spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, car interiors, and more.
- The exclusive specialty tools, including the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool and Spraying Crevice Tool, are only available with this model.
- Its lightweight and versatile design means you can easily clean multiple surfaces throughout your home.
Cons
- The tank capacity is 48 oz., which means you may need to refill it frequently if you’re cleaning a large area.
- It may not be as effective on deep-set stains as a full-size carpet cleaning machine.
- The corded design means you’ll need an outlet nearby to use it.
We recently used the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner to clean up some pet messes in our home, and we were impressed with its performance. The suction was strong enough to lift away even tough stains, and the included specialty tools made it easy to clean tight spaces like car interiors and stairs.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tank capacity is on the smaller side, so you may need to refill it frequently if you’re cleaning a larger area. Additionally, while it’s effective on most stains, it may not be as effective on deep-set stains as a full-size carpet cleaning machine.
Overall, we would recommend the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner for anyone looking for a versatile and effective portable carpet cleaner. Plus, with every purchase, you’ll be supporting the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
Bissell SpotClean ProHeat Portable Spot and Stain Carpet Cleaner
If you’re looking for a powerful and compact portable carpet cleaner, the Bissell SpotClean ProHeat is definitely worth considering. We’ve been using it for a while now and it’s been a lifesaver for cleaning up spills and stains.
Pros
- The built-in Heatwave Technology helps maintain consistent water temperature, making it more effective at removing tough stains.
- The specialized tools, including the Deep Stain Tool, are engineered for specific messes, making it easier to tackle different types of stains.
- It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to store and transport from one stain to the next.
Cons
- The hose length is only 4.5′, which can be a bit limiting when trying to clean in hard-to-reach areas.
- While the Triple Action Formula is effective at removing set-in stains and eliminating odors, it can be a bit pricey to replace.
- The suction power isn’t quite as strong as some other models we’ve tried, which can make it a bit harder to remove really stubborn stains.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Bissell SpotClean ProHeat to anyone in need of a portable carpet cleaner. It’s powerful, compact, and easy to use, making it a great choice for both home and professional use.
Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner
If you’re looking for a compact and lightweight spot cleaner that can handle multiple household stains, the Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner might be the one for you.
Pros
- The built-in hose rinse flushes the machine with water to remove any left-behind dirt and debris, making it easy to clean.
- The 4-inch removable stain tool helps target embedded dirt, and the flexible, kink-free hose provides maneuverability and added reach.
- Its compact footprint is 20% lighter and can fit into tight spaces, making it easy to move around the house.
Cons
- The 19 oz. tank might not be enough for larger cleaning jobs, and you might have to refill it multiple times.
- Some users have reported leaks in the dirty water tank, which could be a problem when cleaning carpets and upholstery.
- The suction power might not be strong enough to remove tough set-in stains, and you might have to use it multiple times.
We recently tried out the Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner to see how it performs in real-world situations, and we were impressed with its performance. The built-in hose rinse made it easy to clean the machine after use, and the removable stain tool helped us target embedded dirt and stains.
The compact and lightweight design of the Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner made it easy to move around the house and reach tight spaces. However, the 19 oz. tank might not be enough for larger cleaning jobs, and we had to refill it multiple times.
One issue we encountered was leaks in the dirty water tank, which could be a problem when cleaning carpets and upholstery. Additionally, the suction power might not be strong enough to remove tough set-in stains, and we had to use it multiple times.
Overall, we think the Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner is a great option for those looking for a compact and lightweight spot cleaner that can handle multiple household stains. However, if you’re dealing with tough set-in stains or larger cleaning jobs, you might want to consider a more heavy-duty option.
BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
We highly recommend the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner for anyone looking for an effective and versatile portable carpet cleaner. With its HydroSteam Technology and 3 different cleaning modes, this machine can tackle even the toughest and oiliest stains on multiple surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, auto interiors, tile, and even sneakers. Plus, it comes with BISSELL PET PRO OXY Spot & Stain Urine Eliminator with StainProtect formula for permanent stain removal and preventing future stains.
Pros
- The HydroSteam Technology provides up to 50% better cleaning, making it highly effective in removing set-in stains and tough, stuck-on, oily messes from carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces.
- With 3 different cleaning modes, the machine can handle all types of messes, including enzyme-based stains like pet accidents.
- The machine is easy to use, with a dual-tank system with a 64 oz. clean tank capacity and a large, easy-to-remove dirty tank.
Cons
- The nozzle may pop off during rigorous cleaning, which can be frustrating.
- The wider nozzle by default may not be preferred by some users.
- The design flaw of the brush head popping off mid-use may cause inconvenience.
In our experience, the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is a great investment for pet owners or anyone looking for a reliable and versatile portable carpet cleaner. Its HydroSteam Technology, 3 different cleaning modes, and easy-to-use design make it highly effective in removing tough stains and messes from multiple surfaces.
Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner and Car/Auto Detailer
If you’re looking for a portable carpet cleaner that can handle pet messes, the Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe is a great option.
Pros
- Powerful suction to remove tough pet spots and stains from multiple surfaces
- Portable and versatile design makes it easy to clean almost anywhere
- Comes with tools and formula to tackle difficult pet stains and odors
Cons
- Tank capacity is only 48 oz, so you may need to refill frequently for larger messes
- Some users have reported issues with the hose clogging or breaking over time
- At 9.7 pounds, it’s not the lightest portable carpet cleaner on the market
We’ve used the Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe to clean up after our furry friends, and it’s been a reliable tool for tackling pet messes. The powerful suction makes it easy to lift away dirt and paw prints from carpets, stairs, and even car interiors. We appreciate that it comes with a variety of tools and formulas to handle different types of pet stains and odors.
One thing to keep in mind is that the tank capacity is only 48 oz, so you may need to refill frequently for larger messes. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the hose clogging or breaking over time, so it’s important to take care when using and storing the machine.
Overall, we would recommend the Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe to anyone looking for a portable carpet cleaner that can handle pet messes. With its powerful suction and versatile design, it’s a great tool to have on hand for quick cleanups around the house.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best portable carpet cleaner, there are several factors to consider. We recommend taking a close look at the following features before making a purchase:
Cleaning Performance
The most important aspect to consider when buying a portable carpet cleaner is its cleaning performance. Look for a cleaner that has strong suction power, as this will ensure that dirt and debris are effectively removed from your carpets. Additionally, pay attention to the brush roll. A good brush roll will agitate the carpet fibers, allowing the cleaner to more easily remove dirt and stains.
Tank Capacity
The tank capacity of a portable carpet cleaner will determine how much cleaning solution and water it can hold. A larger tank capacity means that you won’t have to refill the cleaner as frequently, which can save you time and effort. However, keep in mind that a larger tank capacity may also mean a heavier and bulkier cleaner, which can be more difficult to maneuver.
Portability
As the name suggests, portability is a key feature of portable carpet cleaners. Look for a cleaner that is lightweight and easy to carry, as this will make it easier to move around your home. Additionally, consider the size of the cleaner. A compact design will make it easier to store the cleaner when it’s not in use.
Accessories
Finally, consider the accessories that come with the cleaner. Look for a cleaner that comes with a variety of attachments, such as a crevice tool or upholstery tool. These attachments will allow you to clean a wider range of surfaces and areas, making the cleaner more versatile.
By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose the best portable carpet cleaner for your needs. Whether you’re dealing with pet stains, high-traffic areas, or just want to keep your carpets looking their best, a portable carpet cleaner can be a great investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should I consider when choosing a portable carpet cleaner for pet stains?
When selecting a portable carpet cleaner for pet stains, consider the suction power, tank capacity, and the type of brush roll. A strong suction power will ensure that all pet hair and debris are removed from your carpet. A larger tank capacity will allow you to clean more areas without having to stop and refill the tank. A brush roll that is designed to pick up pet hair will be more effective in removing embedded dirt and hair from your carpet.
How do I determine the best portable carpet cleaner for use in vehicles?
When choosing a portable carpet cleaner for use in your vehicle, consider the size and weight of the machine. A compact and lightweight machine will be easier to maneuver around the tight spaces in your vehicle. Look for a machine with a long hose and attachments that can reach all the nooks and crannies in your car. Additionally, consider a machine that has a crevice tool for cleaning in between seats and a brush roll for removing dirt and debris from upholstery.
What are the top-rated portable upholstery cleaners currently available?
The top-rated portable upholstery cleaners on the market include the BISSELL Little Green ProHeat, the Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, and the Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner. These machines are designed to effectively clean upholstery and remove stains without damaging the fabric.
Which carpet cleaning solutions enhance the performance of portable carpet cleaners?
Using a high-quality carpet cleaning solution can enhance the performance of your portable carpet cleaner. Look for a solution that is specifically designed for use in portable machines and is safe for use on your carpet. Additionally, consider a solution that is formulated to remove tough stains and odors.
How do BISSELL portable carpet cleaners compare to other brands on the market?
BISSELL is one of the top brands in the portable carpet cleaner market. Their machines are known for their powerful suction, effective brush rolls, and ease of use. However, there are other brands on the market that offer comparable machines with similar features. When comparing brands, consider the machine’s suction power, tank capacity, and overall performance.
What are the most effective types of carpet cleaning for different kinds of stains?
The most effective types of carpet cleaning for different kinds of stains include steam cleaning, dry cleaning, and spot cleaning. Steam cleaning is effective for removing dirt and stains from deep within the carpet fibers. Dry cleaning is ideal for delicate fabrics and can remove stains without the use of water. Spot cleaning is effective for removing small stains and spills quickly before they set in. Consider the type of stain and the fabric of your carpet when choosing the best cleaning method.