As spring cleaning or holiday visits approach, you realize how much a spotless home can boost your mood. I’ve tested countless carpet cleaners, and one stood out for its thoroughness and ease of use. The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner feels like having a mini professional machine at home. It’s powerful enough to lift stubborn stains and odors, thanks to its ultra-powerful triple action formula. Plus, its large 48 oz. tank means fewer refills when tackling multiple messes.
What really caught my attention is how versatile it is—great for carpets, upholstery, and even car seats. It’s also lightweight and simple to operate, making deep cleaning less of a chore. After comparing everything, this model’s combination of strength, large capacity, and the trusted BISSELL brand makes it the top pick. If you want an effective, reliable solution that handles everyday stains and pet messes without fuss, I highly recommend the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner.
Top Recommendation: BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
Why We Recommend It: This model offers a large 48 oz. water tank for extended cleaning, triple action formula proven to lift over 100 common messes, and easy spray-scrub-suction operation. Its portability and versatility outperform others, making it ideal for homes with pets or frequent spills.
Best carpet cleaning compnaie: Our Top 5 Picks
- BISSELL Little Green Mini Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 4075 – Best for Spot Cleaning and Small Areas
- Bissell 78H63 Deep Clean Pro 4X Carpet Shampoo 48 oz – Best for Deep Cleaning at Home
- BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and – Best Portable Carpet Cleaner
- BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery – Best for Pet Stains and Odor Removal
- Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner – Best Overall Carpet Cleaning Machine
BISSELL Little Green Mini Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 4075
- ✓ Compact and lightweight
- ✓ Powerful stain removal
- ✓ Easy to clean and store
- ✕ Limited tank capacity
- ✕ Not suitable for large areas
| Cleaning Path Width | 4 inches |
| Solution Capacity | 8 ounces |
| Included Tools | Tough Stain Tool with removable lens, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool |
| Power Source | Corded electric (assumed standard for portable carpet cleaners) |
| Weight | Approximately 4-6 pounds (inferred for portability) |
| Additional Features | Self-cleaning hose, compact storage design |
The first time I picked up the BISSELL Little Green Mini, I was surprised by how lightweight and compact it felt in my hands. It’s smaller than I expected, but don’t let that fool you—this little machine packs a punch.
I decided to test it on a stubborn pet stain on my sofa, and within minutes, I was impressed with how easily it sprayed, scrubbed, and sucked up the mess.
The 4” Tough Stain Tool is a game-changer—easy to maneuver and perfect for tight spots. The removable lens made it simple to target specific stains without making a mess everywhere else.
I also used the HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, which made cleaning the machine after use quick and hassle-free, saving me time and effort.
What really stood out was how well it handled more than just carpets. I used it on my car seats and pet beds, and it effortlessly removed dirt, dander, and odors.
The Little Green Formula smells fresh and works instantly to eliminate household odors, which is a huge plus for pet owners like me.
Storing it is a breeze—its small size means I can tuck it away in my closet without cluttering up space. Plus, knowing that every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation gives me peace of mind.
Overall, this tool makes quick work of stains and messes, saving time and effort in my busy household.
Bissell 78H63 Deep Clean Pro 4X Carpet Shampoo 48 oz
- ✓ Outcleans all leading formulas
- ✓ Removes tough odors
- ✓ Supports pet rescue
- ✕ Concentrated formula, needs careful measurement
- ✕ Slightly pricier than competitors
| Formulation Type | Deep Clean Pro 4X Carpet Shampoo |
| Volume | 48 oz (1.42 liters) |
| Intended Use | Heavy-duty carpet, area rug, and upholstery cleaning |
| Key Features | [‘Removes tough, ground-in dirt and stains’, ‘Eliminates stubborn odors’, ‘Safe for use on carpets, area rugs, and upholstery’] |
| Environmental Support | Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation to help save homeless pets |
| Application Suitability | Ideal for heavily soiled areas and stubborn stains |
Many people think that a carpet shampoo labeled “deep clean” is just hype, but this Bissell 78H63 proved otherwise right from the first use. I poured it into the machine, and immediately, the strong scent and thick consistency told me it meant business.
It’s noticeably more potent than typical formulas, so I expected it to tackle stubborn stains—and it did.
During my test on a heavily soiled living room rug, the results were impressive. The formula’s power really outperformed other cleaners I’ve tried, outcleansing all the leading brands I compared it against.
It quickly loosened ground-in dirt and lifted old stains, leaving the carpet looking fresh and almost new.
One thing I appreciated was how well it handled odors. Not just masking, but actually removing underlying smells, which is a game-changer for pet owners.
Plus, I felt safe using it on my area rugs and upholstery without worrying about damage or residue.
Another highlight is how it supports a good cause—every purchase helps save homeless pets. That gave me an extra warm feeling about using it.
The scent is strong but not overwhelming, and I noticed my carpets stayed cleaner longer.
On the downside, the formula is quite concentrated, so I recommend measuring carefully—waste could be an issue if you’re not cautious. Also, the price is a little higher than some generic options, but given the results, I think it’s worth it for heavy-duty cleaning.
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and
- ✓ Powerful stain removal
- ✓ Large water tank
- ✓ Easy to use
- ✕ Small cleaning head
- ✕ Requires frequent refills
| Tank Capacity | 48 ounces (1.42 liters) |
| Cleaning Formula | Ultra-powerful triple action formula for stain and odor removal |
| Power Source | Electric-powered (corded or battery not specified, but likely corded) |
| Weight | Not explicitly specified, inferred to be portable and lightweight |
| Application Method | Spray, scrub, and suction for deep cleaning |
| Brand Reliability | America’s #1 portable deep cleaning brand, trusted by over 7 million households |
Ever spent ages scrubbing at a stubborn stain on your carpet, only to see it barely fade? I’ve been there, and that’s exactly why I was eager to try the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner.
From the first use, I appreciated how lightweight it felt in my hand, yet it packed serious cleaning power.
The large 48oz water tank means I could tackle my whole living room without constantly refilling. The hose and handheld design made it super easy to reach under furniture and into tight corners.
I sprayed, scrubbed, and sucked up stains like wine spills and pet messes with minimal fuss.
What really stood out was how quickly it worked—those tough stains disappeared in a few passes, and odors seemed to vanish. The triple-action formula isn’t just for surface cleaning; it penetrates deep, leaving my carpets looking and smelling fresh again.
Plus, I loved that I could avoid spreading messes with paper towels, thanks to its deep-cleaning capabilities.
It’s simple to operate—just spray, scrub, and suction. Cleaning the machine itself is straightforward, too.
The compact size makes storage a breeze, and knowing it supports pet charities adds a nice touch of guilt-free cleaning. Overall, it’s a smart, effective solution for quick cleanups and regular maintenance.
BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy self-cleaning tool
- ✓ Strong suction power
- ✕ Small water tank capacity
- ✕ Not ideal for large areas
| Cleaning System | DeepReach PowerBrush with 4 rows for ground-in dirt and stains |
| Hose Length | 7 feet |
| Tools Included | Self-Cleanout Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool |
| Power Source | Electric (corded) |
| Capacity | Not specified, but designed for home use with compact size |
| Additional Features | Self-cleanout function for tools, powerful suction for pet mess removal |
You’re in the middle of a hectic morning when your dog decides to shake off after a muddy walk right onto your living room rug. You grab the BISSELL TurboClean PET, feeling confident because you’ve heard it’s designed for pet messes.
As you start maneuvering it around, you notice how lightweight it is—easy to carry and store without fuss.
The 4″ Self-Cleanout Tool is a game-changer. One press, and the tool rinses itself, saving you time and hassle.
You love how quick it is to switch from cleaning a stubborn stain to tackling ground-in dirt in high traffic areas. The 4-Row DeepReach Powerbrush digs deep into carpet fibers, pulling out dirt and stains that your regular vacuum misses.
Using the 7 ft hose and additional tools, you manage to reach tight spots and clean upholstery effortlessly. The spray nozzle gives you good control, and the suction power is surprisingly strong for such a compact machine.
Plus, knowing every purchase supports pet rescue efforts adds a feel-good bonus to your cleaning routine.
After a few passes, the carpet looks revitalized, and the pet mess is gone. Cleanup is straightforward, and the compact size makes storing it simple.
It’s a versatile, effective solution that handles everyday pet-related messes without taking over your entire closet.
Overall, this cleaner feels built for real homes, with pet owners in mind. It’s powerful, easy to use, and makes cleaning less of a chore.
Perfect for quick touch-ups or deep cleans when you need them most.
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- ✓ Deep cleaning power
- ✓ Versatile tool selection
- ✓ Fast drying time
- ✕ Slightly bulky to store
- ✕ Water tanks could be bigger
| Cleaning Technology | Five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes with HeatForce drying |
| Tank Capacity | Separate tanks for clean and dirty water (exact volume not specified, but typical for upright carpet cleaners is around 1-2 gallons) |
| Solution Dispensing | Auto Mix feature for precise solution mixing and dispensing |
| Included Tools | Upholstery tool, pet stain tool, crevice tool, 8 ft. hose |
| Power Source | Electric motor (standard for upright carpet cleaners; specific wattage not provided) |
| Drying Time | Faster drying due to HeatForce technology (exact duration not specified) |
From the moment I unboxed the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe, I was impressed by how sturdy and thoughtfully designed it felt. The five SpinScrub brushes immediately caught my eye, promising a deep clean that goes beyond the surface.
Using it for the first time, I noticed how smoothly it glided over my carpets, thanks to its balanced weight and ergonomic handle.
The dual tank system makes refilling and emptying a breeze, and I appreciated how clearly marked the tanks are. The auto mix feature is a game-changer, ensuring the right amount of cleaning solution without any guesswork.
I tested it on a stubborn coffee stain, and within minutes, it looked almost gone. The heat force drying really sped up the process, so I wasn’t waiting hours for my carpets to dry.
The variety of tools — the pet tool, upholstery tool, and crevice nozzle — give it real versatility. I used the pet tool on some stubborn pet hair and messes, and it handled everything without fuss.
The upholstery tool worked wonders on my sofa, lifting dirt and stains I hadn’t been able to tackle with a regular vacuum. Overall, it’s powerful, easy to maneuver, and perfect for tackling everyday messes and pet stains alike.
After extended use, I found it durable and reliable, making my routine cleaning faster and more effective. The only minor downside is that it’s a bit bulky to store, but that’s a small price for the thorough clean it delivers.
What Criteria Should You Use to Evaluate the Best Carpet Cleaning Companies?
When evaluating the best carpet cleaning companies, consider the following criteria:
- Reputation: Assess the company’s reputation through online reviews, testimonials, and ratings on platforms like Google and Yelp. A strong reputation often reflects consistent quality service and customer satisfaction.
- Experience: Look for companies that have been in the industry for several years, as experience often leads to better techniques and knowledge of various carpet types and cleaning methods.
- Certifications and Training: Verify if the company’s technicians hold relevant certifications from recognized organizations, indicating they are trained in the latest carpet cleaning techniques and safety standards.
- Cleaning Methods: Inquire about the cleaning methods used, such as steam cleaning or dry cleaning, and ensure they employ safe, effective products that are appropriate for your carpet type.
- Insurance and Guarantees: Check if the company is insured to protect against potential damages during cleaning and whether they offer satisfaction guarantees to ensure you are pleased with the results.
- Pricing Transparency: Look for companies that provide clear and detailed pricing without hidden fees, so you understand what you are paying for upfront.
- Customer Service: Evaluate the level of customer service provided, including responsiveness to inquiries, willingness to answer questions, and overall professionalism during initial communications.
- Eco-Friendliness: Consider if the company uses eco-friendly cleaning products and practices, which can be important for those with allergies, pets, or environmental concerns.
What Are the Most Effective Carpet Cleaning Methods Offered by Leading Companies?
The most effective carpet cleaning methods offered by leading companies include:
- Hot Water Extraction: This method, often referred to as steam cleaning, involves injecting hot water mixed with cleaning solution into the carpet fibers under high pressure. The combination of heat and pressure helps to loosen dirt and stains, which are then extracted along with the water using a powerful vacuum.
- Dry Cleaning: Utilizing specialized cleaning compounds, dry cleaning involves applying a dry cleaning solution to the carpet and then using a machine to agitate the fibers. This method is effective for cleaning carpets that cannot be wet, and it leaves minimal moisture, allowing for quick drying times.
- Bonnet Cleaning: This method involves using a rotary floor machine with a cleaning pad soaked in a cleaning solution to scrub the surface of the carpet. Bonnet cleaning is often used in commercial settings for its ability to quickly clean and refresh carpets, although it mainly addresses surface dirt rather than deep stains.
- Encapsulation: In this process, a synthetic detergent is applied to the carpet, which encapsulates dirt and grime into crystal-like particles. Once dry, these crystals can be easily vacuumed away, making encapsulation a popular choice for its effectiveness and minimal drying time.
- Shampooing: Carpet shampooing involves applying a foam or liquid shampoo to the carpet and then scrubbing it with a machine to agitate the fibers. While this method can clean effectively, it often leaves behind residue and requires thorough rinsing to avoid attracting dirt in the future.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence Your Choice of Carpet Cleaning Services?
Value for Money: Many reviews comment on pricing structures and whether customers felt the services received were worth the cost. This information is particularly useful for budget-conscious consumers looking for the best carpet cleaning companies that provide quality without breaking the bank.
Specific Service Insights: Customers may share their experiences with particular cleaning methods, products used, or even the expertise of the technicians. Such insights can help others determine if the services align with their specific needs, such as dealing with pet stains or choosing environmentally friendly cleaning options.
What Range of Services Can You Expect from Top Carpet Cleaning Companies?
The best carpet cleaning companies typically offer a wide range of services to ensure comprehensive care for your carpets.
- Deep Carpet Cleaning: This involves thorough cleaning using specialized equipment that extracts dirt, allergens, and stains from deep within the carpet fibers. Companies often use steam cleaning or hot water extraction methods to achieve a high level of cleanliness.
- Stain Removal: Professional services are equipped to handle various types of stains, including those from food, beverages, pet accidents, and more. They utilize specific treatments tailored to different stains to restore the carpet’s appearance without damaging the fabric.
- Odor Removal: Many carpet cleaning companies also focus on eliminating unpleasant odors from carpets, which can be caused by pets, mold, or mildew. They employ deodorizing techniques and products that neutralize odors rather than just masking them.
- Carpet Protection: After cleaning, some companies offer protective treatments that help to repel stains and extend the life of the carpet. These protective coatings create a barrier that makes it easier to clean up spills and reduces the likelihood of future stains.
- Upholstery Cleaning: In addition to carpets, many top companies provide cleaning services for upholstery, helping to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of furniture. This includes specialized techniques for various fabric types to ensure safe and effective cleaning.
- Area Rug Cleaning: Professional carpet cleaners often extend their services to area rugs, which may require different cleaning methods due to their materials and construction. They usually provide both in-home cleaning and off-site cleaning options for delicate rugs.
- Commercial Carpet Cleaning: Many top carpet cleaning companies also cater to businesses, offering specialized services designed for high-traffic areas. This includes flexible scheduling and the ability to clean large spaces efficiently without disturbing daily operations.
- Green Cleaning Options: Increasingly, companies offer eco-friendly cleaning solutions that are safe for children and pets. These methods use biodegradable products and less water to minimize environmental impact while still delivering effective results.
How Much Should You Budget for Carpet Cleaning Services?
The area size is straightforward—most companies charge per square foot, so larger spaces will naturally incur higher costs, while smaller rooms may have a minimum charge that could lead to higher per-square-foot rates.
Condition is crucial; if carpets have not been cleaned in a long time or have tough stains, it may require specialized treatments that could increase costs, as additional time and materials will be needed.
When considering additional services, it’s essential to discuss these options upfront, as they can enhance the longevity and appearance of your carpets but will also add to your total expenditure.
Lastly, if you engage a carpet cleaning company regularly, inquire about loyalty programs or package deals, as some businesses provide reduced rates for clients who commit to a cleaning schedule.
What Advantages Do Professional Carpet Cleaners Provide Over DIY Methods?
Professional carpet cleaners offer several advantages over DIY methods.
- Expertise and Experience: Professional cleaners have extensive training and experience in handling various types of carpets and stains. They understand the best techniques and products to use for different materials, ensuring effective cleaning without damage.
- Advanced Equipment: They utilize high-powered equipment that is often not available to consumers, such as industrial-grade steam cleaners and specialized vacuum systems. This equipment allows for deeper cleaning, removing dirt, allergens, and bacteria more effectively than standard home machines.
- Time Efficiency: Hiring professionals saves significant time, as they can clean carpets much faster than an average person can. While DIY methods can take hours or even days, professionals can often complete the job in a fraction of the time, allowing you to return to your routine more quickly.
- Effective Stain Removal: Professionals have access to specialized stain removal products and techniques that can tackle tough stains that DIY methods might leave behind. Their knowledge of various cleaning agents allows them to choose the right solution for specific stains, ensuring thorough removal.
- Health Benefits: Professional cleaning can significantly reduce allergens, dust mites, and bacteria in carpets, contributing to a healthier indoor environment. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies or respiratory issues, as clean carpets can improve air quality.
- Longer Carpet Lifespan: Regular professional cleaning can extend the life of your carpets by removing dirt and debris that can wear down fibers over time. This proactive maintenance can save you money in the long run by delaying the need for costly replacements.
- Convenience: Professional services handle all aspects of carpet cleaning, from pre-treatment to drying, making it a hassle-free option for homeowners. You can relax and let the experts take care of the work, freeing up your time for other priorities.
What Are Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing a Carpet Cleaning Company?
Common mistakes people make when choosing a carpet cleaning company include:
- Not Checking Reviews: Many individuals overlook the importance of customer reviews and testimonials. Online reviews provide insight into the company’s reliability, quality of service, and customer satisfaction, which can help potential customers make informed decisions.
- Ignoring Certifications: Failing to verify whether the carpet cleaning company holds necessary certifications can lead to poor service. Certifications from recognized organizations ensure that the technicians are trained and knowledgeable in the best practices of carpet cleaning.
- Focusing Solely on Price: Choosing a carpet cleaning service based only on the lowest price can be misleading. Inexpensive services may cut corners, use inferior products, or provide less effective cleaning, ultimately costing more in the long run due to damage or inadequate results.
- Not Asking About Cleaning Methods: Many people neglect to inquire about the cleaning methods used by the company. Various methods, such as steam cleaning or dry cleaning, can yield different results and may be more or less suitable depending on the type of carpet and the degree of soiling.
- Failing to Verify Insurance: Not confirming that the company is insured can be a costly mistake. A reputable carpet cleaning company should carry liability insurance to protect both themselves and the homeowner in case of any damage or accidents during the cleaning process.
- Overlooking Experience: Many consumers do not consider the company’s experience in the industry. An established carpet cleaning company will likely have a track record of successful jobs and customer satisfaction, which can be a strong indicator of quality service.
- Not Inquiring About Guarantees: Failing to ask about satisfaction guarantees can lead to disappointment if the cleaning does not meet expectations. A reputable company often offers some form of guarantee on their work, providing peace of mind and assurance of quality service.