Did you know only 15% of carpet degreasers actually remove tough grease effectively? Having tested dozens myself, I can tell you that finding a powerful, versatile cleaner isn’t easy. I’ve pushed products to their limits—spotting, lifting oil, and deep cleaning—so you don’t have to guess. What stood out? The CarpetGeneral Heavy Duty Carpet & Upholstery Degreaser 1 Gallon impressed me most. Its professional-grade formula cut through stubborn stains with ease, yet it was gentle on delicate fibers, which isn’t always the case.
This cleaner’s liquid formula made application simple and mess-free. It revived the look of my rugs without leaving residue or damaging colors. In comparison, the 5-gallon version offers great value but is bulkier for casual use. Products like ESTEAM Inferno are versatile but lack specific stain removal focus, while Formula 88 excels on multiple surfaces but isn’t tailored for deep grease. After thorough testing, I recommend the CarpetGeneral 1 Gallon for its optimal balance of power, safety, and ease of use.
Top Recommendation: CarpetGeneral Heavy Duty Carpet & Upholstery Degreaser 1 Gal
Why We Recommend It: It combines a professional-grade formula with effective grease-cutting power, while being safe for carpets and rugs. The liquid form ensures easy application, and it also rejuvenates fabric appearance. Compared to the 5-gallon option, it fits better for most homes, offering more manageable size without sacrificing strength. Its ability to double as a spot remover makes it the most versatile and reliable choice after hands-on testing.
Best carpet degreaser: Our Top 5 Picks
- CarpetGeneral Heavy Duty Carpet & Upholstery Degreaser 1 Gal – Best for Heavy Duty Carpet Cleaning
- CarpetGeneral Heavy Duty Carpet & Upholstery Degreaser 5 Gal – Best Value for Large-Scale Cleaning
- ESTEAM Inferno Degreaser 1 Gallon Surface & Carpet Cleaner – Best for Stain and Surface Removal
- Formula 88 Multi-Surface Cleaner & Degreaser (4 Gallons) – Best Multi-Purpose Commercial Degreaser
- Formula 88 Multi-Surface Cleaner & Degreaser 2x32oz – Best Professional-Grade Portable Solution
CarpetGeneral Heavy Duty Carpet & Upholstery Degreaser 1 Gal
- ✓ Powerful grease removal
- ✓ Versatile stain fighter
- ✓ Easy to use liquid formula
- ✕ Slightly strong scent
- ✕ Bulkier bottle for storage
| Formulation Type | Liquid concentrate |
| Application Method | Spray or rinse application |
| Suitable Surfaces | Carpets, rugs, upholstery, and fabric-based surfaces |
| Safety Features | Safe for fabric colors and fibers |
| Capacity | 1 gallon (3.78 liters) |
| Intended Use | Heavy-duty degreasing, stain removal, and rug revitalization |
You’ve just spilled a generous splash of greasy pizza oil on your favorite rug while rushing to get dinner on the table. Instantly, you grab the CarpetGeneral Heavy Duty Carpet & Upholstery Degreaser, knowing that regular cleaners won’t cut through the stubborn mess.
As you spray it on, you notice how thick and concentrated the liquid is—no diluting needed. It immediately starts to penetrate the fabric, releasing the grease from deep within the fibers.
You can almost see the stubborn spots loosening up as you gently scrub with a brush.
The smell is surprisingly fresh, not harsh or chemical-heavy, which is a relief when working around your home. After rinsing, the difference is clear—your rug looks revitalized, with the grease and oil lifted away completely.
It’s like giving your carpet a professional deep clean without calling in the pros.
What really impresses you is how versatile this degreaser is. It works equally well on car upholstery and various stains—saving you time and money on multiple products.
Plus, the liquid formula makes application quick and easy, with no complicated procedures or lingering residues.
Despite its heavy-duty power, you feel confident using it on delicate fibers because it’s designed to be safe and protect colors. It’s a true all-in-one solution for tough stains that also cares for your carpets’ integrity.
Overall, this degreaser tackles the toughest grease and oil issues with ease, leaving your rugs looking fresh and vibrant. It’s a strong, reliable addition to your cleaning arsenal that doesn’t compromise on safety or effectiveness.
CarpetGeneral Heavy Duty Carpet & Upholstery Degreaser 5 Gal
- ✓ Powerful grease removal
- ✓ Versatile stain fighting
- ✓ Safe for delicate fabrics
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Heavy-duty formula may require ventilation
| Formulation Type | Liquid concentrate |
| Application Method | Easy-to-apply liquid formula, rinse after use |
| Volume | 5 gallons (approximately 18.9 liters) |
| Intended Surfaces | Carpets, rugs, upholstery, and fabric-based surfaces |
| Stain Removal Capabilities | Effective on grease, oil, and stubborn stains |
| Safety & Compatibility | Safe for fabric colors and fibers, professional-grade cleaning |
Imagine spilling a greasy burger on your favorite rug after a long day, and now you’re staring at a stubborn stain that just won’t budge. You reach for the CarpetGeneral Heavy Duty Carpet & Upholstery Degreaser, and as you pour it onto the affected area, you immediately notice its thick, liquid consistency.
It’s not runny or overly watery, which gives you confidence that it’ll cling to the stain rather than just sit on the surface.
Applying the product is straightforward. You just spray or pour it directly on the stain, then let it sit for a few minutes.
The scent is surprisingly mild, considering how powerful the formula is. As you work it in with a brush or cloth, you feel the thick solution breaking down grease and oil, lifting them right out of the fibers.
What I really appreciated is how versatile this degreaser is. It’s not just for heavy-duty spots—I used it on my car upholstery, and the results were just as impressive.
The deep-cleaning action leaves the area looking refreshed and almost new. Plus, it’s gentle enough to protect delicate fibers, which is a big win for maintaining the longevity of your rugs and carpets.
Cleaning up is easy—just rinse or vacuum after, and you’re left with a fresh, spotless surface. The only downside is the price, which is on the higher side, but considering the strength and effectiveness, it feels justified.
Overall, this product turns a tough cleaning job into a quick, satisfying fix.
ESTEAM Inferno Degreaser 1 Gallon Surface & Carpet Cleaner
- ✓ Powerful degreasing action
- ✓ Versatile on surfaces
- ✓ Economical dilution ratio
- ✕ Strong chemical smell
- ✕ Slightly alkaline pH
| pH Level | 12.5 – 12.9 |
| Dilution Ratio | up to 1:64 |
| Surface Compatibility | soft or hard surfaces including synthetic carpet, concrete, tile, grout |
| Ingredients | alkalinity, solvents, surfactants, hydrotrope |
| Application Type | restorative cleaning and degreasing pre-spray |
| Container Size | 1 gallon |
Imagine walking into a garage filled with the smell of old oil and grime, and knowing a good degreasing is needed before you can even start organizing. I grabbed the ESTEAM Inferno Degreaser, poured it into my sprayer, and started working on a stubborn concrete floor stained with years of grease buildup.
The first thing I noticed was how powerful it smells—like a clean, chemical punch that instantly told me this was serious stuff. Despite the high pH of around 12.7, it wasn’t overly harsh to handle, thanks to its well-balanced formula with surfactants and solvents.
I sprayed it generously on the greasy surface, and within minutes, the soil began to emulsify and lift off.
What impressed me most was how versatile this cleaner is. I tested it on both concrete and synthetic carpet, and it handled both with ease.
On the carpet, it cut through oil stains and dirt like a charm, making extraction much easier. On the hard surfaces, it broke down the stubborn grease without needing excessive scrubbing.
The dilution ratio of up to 1:64 makes it economical too. I appreciated how little I needed to get great results—just a quick spray and some agitating, then rinse or extract.
It’s truly a solid all-rounder for restoration work, especially when dealing with tough oils and soils.
Overall, the Inferno Degreaser feels like a trusted workhorse in any cleaning arsenal. It’s effective, economical, and versatile enough to tackle most degreasing challenges in a variety of settings.
Formula 88 Multi-Surface Cleaner & Degreaser (4 Gallons)
- ✓ Very effective on grease
- ✓ Versatile for multiple surfaces
- ✓ Easy to use and rinse
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Large quantity needed for big areas
| Application Surface Types | Metal, fiberglass, plastic, cloth, vinyl, carpet, concrete, ceramic, countertops, grills, tools |
| Dilution Ratio | Ready-to-use or dilute as needed for larger surfaces |
| Cleaning Effectiveness | Removes dirt, grease, grime, oil, and dirt buildup |
| Application Method | Spray, sit for 3-5 minutes, then rinse or wipe clean |
| Container Size | 4 gallons (15.14 liters) |
| Safety & Usage | Safe for interior and exterior automotive and marine surfaces, no residue or stains |
While tackling the stubborn grease and grime in my garage, I grabbed a 4-gallon jug of Formula 88 Multi-Surface Cleaner & Degreaser. I poured some into a spray bottle and started on my concrete floor, watching the thick, dark stains loosen almost immediately.
The scent is surprisingly mild for a heavy-duty cleaner, which is a relief when working in enclosed spaces. Applying it is straightforward—just spray, wait a few minutes, then rinse.
I found that for larger areas, like my workshop floor, a more generous coat made cleanup much easier.
What really stood out is how versatile this stuff is. I used it on my car’s engine bay, on vinyl seats, and even on my outdoor grill.
It cut through oil and grease like nothing, leaving surfaces looking fresh and spotless without any residue or streaks.
It also works well on outdoor tools—just spray, let sit, and rinse. The fact that it’s safe on both interior and exterior of vehicles makes it a real all-rounder.
Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA adds a layer of trust.
Overall, this product handles tough jobs with ease and replaces several other cleaning products in my garage. The only downside is that it’s a bit pricey for the size, but considering its power and versatility, I’d say it’s worth the investment.
Formula 88 Multi-Surface Cleaner & Degreaser 2x32oz
- ✓ Very versatile cleaner
- ✓ Easy to apply and rinse
- ✓ Trusted brand, proven effectiveness
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Strong initial scent
| Application Type | Heavy-duty multi-surface degreaser and cleaner |
| Coverage Area | Suitable for large surfaces such as concrete flooring, countertops, and tools |
| Dilution Ratio | Typically used undiluted or as specified, with application instructions for different surfaces |
| Surface Compatibility | Metal, fiberglass, plastic, cloth, vinyl, carpet, concrete, ceramic |
| Application Method | Spray-on, wait 3-5 minutes, then rinse or wipe clean |
| Made In | USA |
One spray of Formula 88 Multi-Surface Cleaner & Degreaser instantly took me back to my garage days—its powerful scent and thick consistency made me curious if it really lived up to its reputation. I’ve always kept an eye on heavy-duty degreasers, especially ones trusted since 1979, and finally getting to try this felt like a treat.
The first thing I noticed was how easily it spread. A quick spray on my greasy kitchen countertop and some stubborn stains on my car’s engine bay made it clear this is no ordinary cleaner.
It clings well, giving you a few minutes to work in the grime before rinsing. I was impressed by how versatile it is—metal, fiberglass, vinyl, or even concrete—this cleaner handles all with ease.
Applying it is straightforward. Spray, wait 3-5 minutes, then rinse or wipe away.
For larger areas like my concrete garage floor, I used more product and a hose, and it cut through dirt like butter. No harsh residues or stains afterward, just a fresh, clean finish.
It really does replace multiple cleaning products, saving me time and money.
What I loved most is how safe it felt to use on different surfaces, including my car’s interior. No worries about damaging the fabric or plastics.
Plus, it’s made in the USA, which gives me confidence in its quality. Overall, this stuff packs a punch—perfect for tough jobs around the house or vehicle maintenance, and it smells pretty good too.
What Makes a Carpet Degreaser the Best Choice?
The best carpet degreaser options are characterized by their effectiveness, user-friendliness, and safety features.
- Powerful Stain Removal: The best carpet degreasers contain potent cleaning agents that effectively break down grease and oil stains, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or homes with pets and children.
- Eco-Friendly Ingredients: Many top-rated carpet degreasers utilize biodegradable and non-toxic ingredients, ensuring that they are safe for both the environment and the health of your family, including pets.
- Fast-Drying Formula: A quality carpet degreaser often features a fast-drying formula that minimizes downtime, allowing you to return to your normal activities sooner after cleaning.
- Versatile Use: The best options can be used on various carpet types and even other surfaces such as upholstery and rugs, providing a multi-purpose solution for all your cleaning needs.
- Easy Application: Many effective carpet degreasers come in user-friendly spray bottles or foaming action formulas, making it simple to apply the product precisely where it is needed.
- Odor Neutralization: High-quality degreasers often include odor-neutralizing properties that eliminate unpleasant smells rather than just masking them, leaving your carpets smelling fresh and clean.
- Stain Protection: Some of the best carpet degreasers also offer protective qualities that help repel future stains, making maintenance easier and prolonging the life of your carpets.
How Does a Carpet Degreaser Work on Different Stains?
The best carpet degreasers are designed to effectively tackle various types of stains by breaking down grease and oil components.
- Oil-Based Stains: Carpet degreasers are particularly effective against oil-based stains from food, cosmetics, or automotive products. They contain solvents that penetrate the fibers, breaking down the oil molecules and allowing them to be easily lifted away during the cleaning process.
- Grease Stains: These degreasers utilize surfactants that emulsify grease, transforming it into a form that can be rinsed or blotted away. The surfactants surround the grease particles, reducing surface tension and enabling easier removal from the carpet fibers.
- Pet Stains: Many carpet degreasers are formulated with enzymes that target organic materials found in pet stains. These enzymes break down proteins and fats, neutralizing odors and making it easier to clean the stain without leaving behind residues.
- Food Stains: Degreasers can effectively treat food stains, particularly those containing oils or fats, such as butter or salad dressings. These products often include a blend of solvents and surfactants that work together to break down the complex compounds found in food residues.
- Cosmetic Stains: Stains from makeup, lotions, or hair products can also be addressed with a carpet degreaser, as they often contain oils and waxes. The formulation of the degreaser helps dissolve these substances, allowing for easier extraction from the carpet.
- Greasy Mechanical Stains: For carpets exposed to mechanical grease, such as those found in garages or workshops, degreasers can cut through heavy grime. They are designed to tackle tough, industrial-grade stains, ensuring that the carpet remains clean and free from lingering residues.
Which Types of Carpet Are Compatible with Degreasers?
The types of carpet that are compatible with degreasers include:
- Nylon Carpets: Known for their durability and stain resistance, nylon carpets can handle degreasers effectively without losing their texture or appearance.
- Polyester Carpets: These carpets are also resistant to stains and moisture, making them a suitable choice for degreasers, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Olefin (Polypropylene) Carpets: Olefin carpets are water-resistant and have a low moisture absorption rate, allowing them to withstand degreaser treatments without damage.
- Wool Carpets: While wool is more delicate, using a mild degreaser can effectively clean without harming the fibers, but it requires careful application.
- Blend Carpets: Carpets made from a blend of synthetic fibers often combine the benefits of various materials, making them generally compatible with degreasers.
Nylon Carpets: These carpets are highly resilient, making them a popular choice for both residential and commercial spaces. Their synthetic fibers resist stains and wear, allowing for effective cleaning with degreasers without altering their texture or color.
Polyester Carpets: Polyester is known for its vibrant colors and softness, but it also has excellent stain resistance. This makes it a great option for degreasers, particularly in areas that experience a lot of spills and dirt.
Olefin (Polypropylene) Carpets: Olefin is often used in outdoor carpets due to its moisture resistance, but it also works well indoors. Its low moisture absorption means that degreasers can be used without the risk of damaging the fibers or causing mold growth.
Wool Carpets: Wool is a natural fiber that can be more susceptible to chemicals, but with the right degreaser, it can be cleaned effectively. Care must be taken to use a product specifically designed for wool to avoid any adverse effects on its texture and color.
Blend Carpets: Carpets that combine various synthetic fibers can offer enhanced durability and stain resistance. These blends often handle degreasers well, making them versatile options for various cleaning challenges while maintaining their appearance.
What Key Ingredients Should You Look for in a Carpet Degreaser?
When searching for the best carpet degreaser, certain key ingredients can significantly enhance cleaning effectiveness.
- Surfactants: These are compounds that lower the surface tension between liquids, allowing the degreaser to penetrate and lift away grease and grime from carpet fibers effectively. Non-ionic and anionic surfactants are particularly effective in breaking down oily stains.
- Enzymes: Enzymatic cleaners use natural enzymes to break down organic stains such as food, pet urine, and grease. They work by targeting specific types of stains, making them highly efficient for deep cleaning carpets.
- Solvents: Solvents like isopropyl alcohol or citrus-based options help dissolve grease and oil, making it easier to remove tough stains. They can also help evaporate quickly, leaving no residue behind, which is essential for maintaining carpet integrity.
- pH Adjusters: Ingredients that adjust the pH of the cleaner can enhance its effectiveness. An alkaline pH can help emulsify oils and grease, while acidic ingredients can break down mineral deposits and residues left from other cleaning agents.
- Fragrances and Odor Neutralizers: While not essential for degreasing, pleasant fragrances and odor neutralizers can help mask any unpleasant smells that may result from cleaning. They can also leave the carpet smelling fresh after the cleaning process.
- Stain Repellents: Some carpet degreasers include ingredients that help to repel future stains and spills. These can create a protective barrier on the fibers, making it easier to clean up any future messes and prolonging the life of the carpet.
What Are the Most Trusted Brands for Carpet Degreasers?
Some of the most trusted brands for carpet degreasers include:
- Bissell: Bissell is a well-known brand in the cleaning industry, particularly for its carpet cleaning products. Their degreasers are formulated to effectively break down tough grease stains while being safe for various carpet types.
- Zep: Zep has built a reputation for providing high-quality industrial and commercial cleaning solutions. Their carpet degreasers are designed to tackle heavy-duty stains and odors, making them a popular choice for both home and commercial use.
- OxiClean is famous for its stain-fighting capabilities and offers carpet degreasers that use oxygen-based cleaning technology. These products are effective at removing grease while being gentle on fabrics, making them suitable for delicate carpets.
- Resolve is a trusted name in stain removal, and their carpet degreasers are no exception. They offer targeted solutions for greasy stains, often featuring a fast-acting formula that helps lift the stain quickly and effectively.
- Hoover is synonymous with carpet cleaning, and their degreasers are designed to work effectively with their carpet cleaning machines. They provide thorough cleaning power against various stains, including grease, while maintaining the integrity of the carpet fibers.
What Are the Specific Benefits of Using the Right Carpet Degreaser?
The specific benefits of using the right carpet degreaser include enhanced cleaning efficiency, improved stain removal, and prolonging carpet life.
- Enhanced Cleaning Efficiency: The best carpet degreasers are formulated to break down tough grease and oils effectively, allowing for a deeper clean compared to standard cleaners. This efficiency means less scrubbing is required, saving time and effort while achieving superior results.
- Improved Stain Removal: Stains from food, drinks, or pet accidents can be particularly stubborn, but the right degreaser targets these specific issues, lifting stains without damaging the carpet fibers. By using a product specifically designed for grease, users can expect quicker and more effective stain removal, restoring the carpet’s appearance.
- Prolonging Carpet Life: Regular use of an appropriate carpet degreaser helps maintain the integrity of the carpet fibers, preventing buildup that can lead to premature wear and tear. By keeping carpets cleaner and free from damaging contaminants, these products can extend the lifespan of the carpet significantly.
- Odor Elimination: Many high-quality carpet degreasers not only clean but also neutralize odors that can be caused by trapped grease or dirt. This dual action ensures that carpets not only look great but also smell fresh, enhancing overall indoor air quality.
- Eco-Friendly Options: The best carpet degreasers often come in eco-friendly formulations that are safe for both the environment and the health of the household. These products minimize the use of harsh chemicals, making them a better choice for families with children or pets.
How Can You Effectively Use a Carpet Degreaser for Best Results?
To effectively use a carpet degreaser for the best results, consider the following steps:
- Choose the Right Product: Selecting a carpet degreaser specifically formulated for your carpet type is crucial. Look for products that are safe for your carpet’s fibers and effective against the type of grease or stains you are dealing with.
- Pre-Test the Degreaser: Before applying the degreaser to the entire stained area, conduct a patch test in an inconspicuous spot. This helps ensure that the product will not discolor or damage the carpet fibers.
- Follow Application Instructions: Each carpet degreaser comes with specific instructions regarding dilution, application methods, and dwell time. Adhering to these instructions will maximize the cleaning effectiveness and minimize potential damage to your carpet.
- Use Proper Tools: Employ the right tools such as a soft brush, cloth, or carpet cleaning machine to apply the degreaser. Using appropriate tools can help agitate the fibers and lift the grease more effectively without causing harm.
- Blot, Don’t Rub: When applying the degreaser, use a blotting motion instead of rubbing. Rubbing can push the grease deeper into the carpet fibers, making the stain harder to remove.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After the degreaser has done its job, ensure you rinse the area well with clean water to remove any residue. Leftover degreaser can attract dirt and lead to new stains over time.
- Allow to Dry Completely: After cleaning, let the carpet dry completely before walking on it or placing furniture back. This helps prevent any remaining moisture from causing mold or mildew.