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10 Best Small Carpet Cleaners 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Bissell Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner and Car/Auto Detailer, 3353, Gray/Blue

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.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Tank Capacity
When you load up the water-solution mixture into its tub and turn it upside down to install it into the machine, it does leak a little bit.
Weight
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for spot cleaning or tackling stairs and car interiors.
Power and Suction
This little machine is a stain-fighting BEAST. It effortlessly tackled red wine stains on my carpet, coffee spills on the couch, and even ground-in dirt in my car's upholstery.
Attachments and Accessories
I wish the instructions told me how best to use each of the attachments. It tells you how to install them, but I had to search online for more guidance on appropriate usage.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Setup and operation are a breeze. Fill the clean water tank, attach the hose, and you're ready to go. The controls are simple and intuitive.
#2

BISSELL TurboClean, Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3952

The BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner (Model 3952) is a compact and lightweight solution for cleaning carpets and area rugs, especially in small spaces. One of its standout features is the 4-row DeepReach PowerBrush, which, combined with powerful suction, effectively removes ground-in dirt and stains that regular vacuums might miss. This makes it particularly useful for high-traffic areas and homes with pets.

The product's ease of maneuverability and storage is also a plus, fitting well in tight spaces and easy to store when not in use. With a weight of 16.37 pounds, it is relatively easy to handle, though it might still be a bit cumbersome for some users over longer cleaning sessions. The cleaner does not require batteries or assembly, which enhances its user-friendly design.

Additionally, it pairs well with BISSELL's PRO MAX Clean + Protect formula, which helps in fighting future stains. One of the highlights of purchasing this product is that it supports BISSELL Pet Foundation, contributing to their mission of saving pets in need. Users looking for a carpet cleaner with a wide cleaning path or extended cord length might find this model limiting. However, for those who need a reliable and straightforward carpet cleaner for smaller areas and quick clean-ups, the BISSELL TurboClean 3952 is a solid option.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Tank Capacity
We were quite surprised at how much more solution it held, especially since it wasn't much bigger than our previous cleaner.
Weight
Lightweight and easy to use, this cleaner makes the process pretty easy and is a lot better than renting one or getting a professional cleaning.
Power and Suction
This one has much better suction than the rug doctor and is much easier to move around.
Attachments and Accessories
The attachment for the upholstery cleaner is way easier than our old one.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
This carpet cleaner was easier to use than I thought. It got the carpet really clean.
#3

Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine, Upright Shampooer, FH50150, Red

The Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner is a solid choice for those seeking an efficient and user-friendly solution for deep cleaning carpets. With a tank capacity of 3.8 liters, it offers ample space for larger cleaning tasks without frequent refilling. Weighing 18.5 pounds, it strikes a balance between being lightweight enough for ease of use, yet sturdy enough to handle robust cleaning jobs. Its Smart Tank™ system simplifies the process of filling and emptying, minimizing mess and saving time, which is a significant plus for users who value convenience.

One standout feature is the exclusive SpinScrub® Technology, which utilizes counter-rotating brushes for a thorough clean that reaches deeply into carpet fibers. This feature ensures even cleaning across various carpet types, making it a versatile option for different household needs. The 8-foot hose and included upholstery tool expand its usability, allowing users to tackle stairs and other hard-to-reach areas effectively.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. The corded electric power source may limit mobility during use, as you’ll need to stay close to an outlet. Additionally, while the machine is designed for easy maintenance, some users may find the assembly process a bit cumbersome. The 2-year limited warranty provides some peace of mind, but it’s worth noting that the product's performance may vary depending on specific carpet types and conditions.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Tank Capacity
Separate clean and dirty water tanks are really convenient, and it’s easy to fill and empty.
Weight
This Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe is an absolute game-changer, super easy to use, lightweight, and does an incredible job deep-cleaning carpets.
Power and Suction
The suction power is strong, so the carpet dries way faster than expected.
Attachments and Accessories
The hand tool is perfect for cleaning upholstery and smaller areas.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Cleaning the unit is unbelievably easy - each part is a breeze to use and clean.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Carpet Cleaners

Choosing the right small carpet cleaner can make a big difference in maintaining the cleanliness and longevity of your carpets. Small carpet cleaners are ideal for spot cleaning, small areas, and quick clean-ups. When selecting a small carpet cleaner, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are the key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
Tank CapacityTank capacity refers to the amount of water and cleaning solution the carpet cleaner can hold. This is important because it determines how long you can clean before needing to refill the tank. Small carpet cleaners typically have smaller tanks, which makes them lightweight and easy to maneuver. If you have a small area to clean or need a cleaner for quick spot cleaning, a smaller tank (around 0.5 to 1 gallon) should suffice. For slightly larger areas or more frequent use, look for a tank capacity closer to 1.5 gallons.
Cleaning Path WidthThe cleaning path width is the width of the area that the cleaner can clean in one pass. This is important because a wider cleaning path can cover more area quickly, making the cleaning process faster. Small carpet cleaners usually have a cleaning path width ranging from 6 to 10 inches. If you need a cleaner for small spots or tight spaces, a narrower cleaning path (6-8 inches) is ideal. For slightly larger areas, a wider path (8-10 inches) can be more efficient.
WeightThe weight of the carpet cleaner is crucial for ease of use and portability. A lighter cleaner is easier to carry around and maneuver, especially if you need to clean multiple rooms or stairs. Small carpet cleaners typically weigh between 5 to 15 pounds. If you need a cleaner for quick spot cleaning or occasional use, a lighter model (5-10 pounds) is preferable. For more frequent use or slightly larger areas, a model weighing closer to 15 pounds may offer more stability and power.
Power and SuctionPower and suction determine how effectively the carpet cleaner can remove dirt and stains from your carpet. Higher power and suction mean better cleaning performance. Small carpet cleaners usually have motors ranging from 3 to 7 amps. For light spot cleaning and small spills, a lower power (3-5 amps) should be sufficient. For tougher stains or more frequent use, look for a cleaner with higher power (5-7 amps) to ensure thorough cleaning.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the versatility of your carpet cleaner. Common attachments include upholstery tools, crevice tools, and stair tools. These are important for cleaning different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. If you need a cleaner primarily for carpets, basic attachments may be enough. However, if you plan to clean upholstery, stairs, or car interiors, look for a model with a variety of attachments to meet your needs.
Cord LengthCord length determines how far you can move the cleaner from the power outlet without needing an extension cord. This is important for convenience and ease of use. Small carpet cleaners typically have cord lengths ranging from 15 to 25 feet. For small rooms or spot cleaning, a shorter cord (15-20 feet) may be sufficient. For larger areas or more flexibility, a longer cord (20-25 feet) is preferable.
Ease of Use and MaintenanceEase of use and maintenance are important for ensuring that you can operate and clean the carpet cleaner without hassle. Look for features like easy-to-fill tanks, simple controls, and removable brushes for easy cleaning. If you prefer a straightforward, no-fuss cleaner, choose a model with intuitive design and minimal maintenance requirements. For more advanced users, additional features like automatic mixing of cleaning solution and self-cleaning brushes can be beneficial.

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