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Portable carpet cleaners are a game-changer for homeowners and renters alike. They provide the convenience of spot-cleaning your carpets without having to haul out a full-sized, heavy-duty unit. Portable carpet cleaners come packed with powerful suction and innovative cleaning solutions, making them suitable for homes or small businesses. However, with the wide array of options available in the market, choosing the best one can be a challenging task.
The best portable carpet cleaner should be easy to use, versatile, and effective in removing stains and spills. Also, consider one that can dry the carpet quickly and runs on a battery for portability. Using a substandard unit can lead to ineffective cleaning, recurrent odors, and the eventual damage of your carpet.
When purchasing a portable carpet cleaner, pay attention to features such as its cleaning formula compatibility, cord or cordless operation, tank capacity, cleaning tool options, and the machine’s overall power. This will ensure that your carpet cleaner can handle multiple situations, and be a worthwhile and lasting investment.
In this guide, we lend you our expertise. We’ve spent the time to research and test various units, evaluating their performance, features, versatility, and value for money. This hands-on approach allows us to provide firsthand and trusted information, so your decision-making process becomes more comfortable. Armed with this guide, you can select the best portable carpet cleaner that fits your needs, home, and lifestyle.
Best Portable Carpet Cleaner
Choosing the right portable carpet cleaner is pivotal for maintaining the cleanliness and lifespan of your carpets. The ideal cleaner should be efficient, versatile, and powerful enough to handle everyday dirt and unexpected stains. While the market is flooded with options, not all of these cleaners are created equal. To save you the hassle, we’ve compiled a list of the best portable carpet cleaners, backed by our hands-on knowledge and careful testing methodology.
BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser PowerBrush, 20-min runtime, DirtLifter PowerBrush, Stationary Pet Tool, Oxy Spot & Stain Formula Included, 2837, Large
If you’re looking for a pet carpet cleaner that can remove pet stains and odors effectively, then the BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser PowerBrush is worth considering.
Pros
- The DirtLifter PowerBrush deeply cleans the carpet, removing pet stains and odors effectively.
- The 20-minute runtime is enough to clean most stains without needing a recharge.
- The pet hair attachment makes it easy to remove pet hair from the carpet and upholstery.
Cons
- The corded design may limit your mobility when cleaning.
- The 20-minute runtime may not be enough to clean larger areas.
- The price point may be higher than some other pet carpet cleaners on the market.
The BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser PowerBrush is a powerful tool that can help you keep your carpets clean and fresh. The DirtLifter PowerBrush is designed to remove pet stains and odors deeply, leaving your carpets looking and smelling like new. The 20-minute runtime is enough to clean most stains without needing a recharge, but it may not be enough to clean larger areas. The pet hair attachment is a great feature that makes it easy to remove pet hair from the carpet and upholstery.
One thing to keep in mind is that the corded design may limit your mobility when cleaning. You’ll need to plug the cleaner in to use it, which may not be ideal if you have a large area to clean. Additionally, the 20-minute runtime may not be enough to clean larger areas, so you may need to recharge the cleaner if you have a lot of stains to clean.
Overall, if you’re looking for a pet carpet cleaner that can effectively remove pet stains and odors, the BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser PowerBrush is a great option to consider.
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 handheld carpet cleaner that can tackle pet messes and spills, the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is worth considering.
Pros
- The built-in 11.5-volt motor provides powerful suction and deep cleaning.
- The portable size and lightweight design make it easy to maneuver and carry around the house.
- The formula for the included pet hair and oxy formula is effective in removing pet messes and stains.
Cons
- The cord is not very long, which can limit your reach.
- The water tank is relatively small, so you may need to refill it frequently.
- The cleaning tools included are not very diverse.
We’ve used the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner to clean up after our pets, and it has performed well. The built-in motor provides strong suction, and the portable design makes it easy to carry from room to room. The pet hair and oxy formula is effective in removing pet stains and odors.
One thing to keep in mind is that the cord is relatively short, so you may need to plug in the cleaner near the area you want to clean. Additionally, the water tank is relatively small, so you may need to refill it frequently if you’re cleaning a larger area. Finally, the cleaning tools included are not very diverse, so you may need to use other tools if you’re cleaning a variety of surfaces.
Overall, if you’re looking for a handheld carpet cleaner that can handle pet messes and spills, the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is a solid choice.
Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner, for Carpet & Upholstery, Stain Remover, FD13000, Black, Compact
If you’re looking for a powerful and compact spot cleaner, the Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The 1150 watts of power combined with the 360-degree rotating dolly base makes it easy to clean tight spaces and upholstery.
- The 3-in-1 dirt lifter suction is effective in removing pet hair, dirt, and stains from carpets and upholstery.
- The 22-ounce dirt tank capacity is easy to empty and clean.
Cons
- The cord is not very long, so you may need to use an extension cord in some situations.
- The hose is quite short, which can make it difficult to reach certain spots.
- The suction power is not as strong as some other spot cleaners on the market.
We’ve used the Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner to clean our carpets and upholstery, and we’re impressed with its performance. The 1150 watts of power and the 360-degree rotating dolly base make it easy to clean tight spaces and corners, and the 3-in-1 dirt lifter suction is effective in removing pet hair, dirt, and stains. The 22-ounce dirt tank capacity is easy to empty and clean, and the compact design makes it easy to store.
One thing to keep in mind is that the cord is not very long, so you may need to use an extension cord in some situations. Additionally, the hose is quite short, which can make it difficult to reach certain spots. Finally, the suction power is not as strong as some other spot cleaners on the market, so it may not be the best option for heavily soiled areas.
Overall, we would recommend the Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner to anyone looking for a compact and powerful spot cleaner for their carpets and upholstery.
Bissell SpotClean ProHeat Portable Spot and Stain Carpet Cleaner, 2694, Blue
If you’re looking for a portable carpet cleaner that can tackle tough stains and pet messes, the Bissell SpotClean ProHeat is a great option.
Pros
- The powerful suction and deep cleaning action of the ProHeat system can remove stains and pet messes with ease.
- The built-in 3X cleaning system includes a stain trapper to remove stains, a dirt lifter to remove dirt, and a pet hair and trailer to remove pet hair and debris.
- The portable design and lightweight build make it easy to move from room to room or even take on the go.
Cons
- The water tank is relatively small, so you’ll need to refill it frequently if you’re cleaning a large area.
- The cord is also relatively short, so you’ll need to use an extension cord in larger rooms.
- The hose is fairly stiff, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
The Bissell SpotClean ProHeat is a great option for spot cleaning carpets, upholstery, and even auto interiors. The powerful suction and deep cleaning action of the ProHeat system make it easy to remove tough stains and pet messes, while the built-in 3X cleaning system ensures that you get a thorough clean every time.
One of the best things about this carpet cleaner is its portability. It’s lightweight and easy to move from room to room, and you can even take it on the go if you need to clean something quickly. The built-in carrying handle makes it easy to transport, and the bottom feet provide excellent traction to prevent slipping.
However, there are a few downsides to this carpet cleaner. The water tank is relatively small, so you’ll need to refill it frequently if you’re cleaning a large area. Additionally, the cord is also relatively short, so you’ll need to use an extension cord in larger rooms. Finally, the hose is fairly stiff, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Overall, the Bissell SpotClean ProHeat is a great option for anyone who needs a portable carpet cleaner that can tackle tough stains and pet messes. Its powerful suction and deep cleaning action make it a top performer, and its portability and lightweight build make it easy to use wherever you need it.
Hoover CleanSlate Plus Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner, Stain Remover, Portable, FH14050, White
If you’re looking for a powerful spot cleaner for your carpets and upholstery, the Hoover CleanSlate Plus FH14050P is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Powered Lift-Off Technology makes it easy to clean both carpets and upholstery with the same machine.
- The CleanSlate Pre-Treatment Solution and Boost Formula work together to remove stains and odors from your home.
- The compact design of the Cleaning Tool makes it easy to clean tight spaces and stairs.
Cons
- The machine is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around.
- The water tank is relatively small, so you may need to refill it frequently.
- Some users have reported issues with the hose and power cord.
We’ve been using the Hoover CleanSlate Plus for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The Powered Lift-Off Technology is a game-changer, allowing us to switch between cleaning carpets and upholstery without having to switch machines.
The CleanSlate Pre-Treatment Solution and Boost Formula have also been effective in removing stains and odors from our carpets and upholstery. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in the overall cleanliness of our home.
One thing to keep in mind is that the machine is quite heavy, which can make it difficult to move around. Additionally, the water tank is relatively small, so you may need to refill it frequently if you’re cleaning a larger area. Some users have also reported issues with the hose and power cord, so be sure to keep an eye on those.
Overall, we would recommend the Hoover CleanSlate Plus FH14050P to anyone in need of a powerful spot cleaner for their carpets and upholstery. With its easy-to-use design and effective stain-removing formula, it’s definitely a great choice for anyone looking to keep their home clean and fresh.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best portable carpet cleaner, there are several factors to consider. These factors will help you make an informed decision and choose the right product for your needs.
Size and Weight
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a portable carpet cleaner is its size and weight. A lightweight and compact machine will be easier to maneuver and transport, making it ideal for cleaning carpets in different rooms or even taking it with you on the go. However, a smaller machine may not have the same cleaning power as a larger one, so it’s essential to find a balance between size and weight and cleaning efficiency.
Cleaning Power
Another crucial factor to consider is the cleaning power of the machine. Look for a portable carpet cleaner that has a strong suction power and can effectively remove dirt, dust, and stains from your carpets. A machine with multiple cleaning modes, such as a deep clean mode or a pet hair mode, can also be beneficial in achieving better cleaning results.
Water Tank Capacity
The water tank capacity of the machine is also an essential factor to consider. A larger water tank capacity will allow you to clean more significant areas without having to stop and refill the tank. However, a larger tank may also make the machine heavier and less portable. It’s essential to find a balance between water tank capacity and portability.
Cord Length
Finally, consider the cord length of the machine. A longer cord will give you more flexibility in terms of where you can use the machine without having to worry about finding an outlet nearby. However, a longer cord can also make the machine less portable. It’s essential to find a balance between cord length and portability.
In summary, when choosing the best portable carpet cleaner, consider the size and weight, cleaning power, water tank capacity, and cord length. By doing so, you’ll be able to find a machine that meets your needs and provides effective cleaning results.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-rated portable carpet cleaners for pet messes?
When it comes to pet messes, it’s important to have a portable carpet cleaner that can effectively remove pet hair, dander, and stains. Some of the top-rated portable carpet cleaners for pet messes include the Bissell Pet Stain Eraser, the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe, and the Rug Doctor Mini Portable.
Which portable carpet cleaners have the best reviews on Amazon?
Amazon is a great resource for reading reviews from other customers who have used portable carpet cleaners. Some of the portable carpet cleaners with the best reviews on Amazon include the Bissell SpotClean ProHeat, the Hoover SteamVac Compact, and the Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner.
What features should I look for in a portable carpet cleaner for pet hair?
When looking for a portable carpet cleaner for pet hair, it’s important to look for features such as powerful suction, a crevice tool for getting pet hair from upholstery and car seats, and a detachable hose for easy storage. Additionally, a machine with a HEPA filter can help trap pet dander and allergens.
How do I choose a portable carpet cleaner that is effective yet affordable?
Choosing a portable carpet cleaner that is effective yet affordable can be a challenge. It’s important to consider the size of the area you need to clean, the type of carpet or rugs you have, and the frequency of use. Additionally, looking for a machine with a warranty can provide peace of mind and protection against defects.
What are the most recommended portable carpet cleaners by cleaning experts?
Cleaning experts often recommend portable carpet cleaners that are easy to use, effective, and affordable. Some of the most recommended portable carpet cleaners by cleaning experts include the Bissell SpotClean ProHeat, the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe, and the Rug Doctor Mini Portable.
Can you recommend a reliable handheld portable carpet cleaner for quick stains?
Handheld portable carpet cleaners are great for quick stains and spills. Some of the most reliable handheld portable carpet cleaners include the Bissell SpotClean, the Hoover Power Scrub Plus, and the Rug Doctor Mini Deep Carpet Cleaner.
