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 BISSELL® Little Green® Max Pet Portable Carpet and Upholstery Deep Cleaner is a highly efficient tool for pet owners and those dealing with tough stains. Weighing in at 8.18 pounds, it is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around and handle, which is a crucial factor for a carpet cleaner in this category. Its compact size does not compromise its performance, as it boasts 30% more suction power than its competitors. This enhanced suction power is instrumental in removing embedded dirt and tough pet stains effectively.

The cleaner features a dual tank system to keep clean and dirty water separate, which simplifies the filling and emptying process. Additionally, the 13-inch hose and long cord offer extended reach for hard-to-reach areas. The cleaning process is bolstered by the self-cleaning tough stain tool that allows for easy maintenance and cleanliness after use. Another standout feature is the specialized pet hair removal tool, which makes it particularly useful for pet owners.

The inclusion of an 8 oz. trial size of BISSELL PET PRO OXY Spot & Stain formula adds value by enabling users to start cleaning right away. However, the product might have a relatively small tank capacity compared to larger models, which could require more frequent refills during extensive cleaning tasks. The 2-pound capacity might be limiting for some heavy-duty cleaning sessions. Despite this, the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet excels in delivering powerful, portable cleaning, particularly for those who need to tackle pet-related messes effectively and conveniently.