10 Best Portable Carpet Cleaners for Carpets, Stairs, Pets etc.

Carpets collect so much dirt over time, especially if you have pets or kids. Pets leave their hair on furniture and the carpet, while kids make messes as they play. Vacuuming won’t be enough in this case. You need a portable carpet cleaner to clean around the rooms that have a carpet thoroughly.

Below is a guide on what to look for and some of our best portable carpet cleaners.

Best Portable Carpet Cleaners  Source: smartcleaningtips.com

Buying Guide

Here are some tips to help you choose a portable carpet cleaner.

  • Type of Cleaning: You need to consider the type of cleaning you plan to do before getting a carpet cleaner. Portable cleaners work well on stains and spills on regular and light carpets.
  • Tank Capacity: If you clean occasionally, you’ll be fine with a smaller tank. However, if you plan on doing heavy cleaning, you need a machine with a big tank.
  • Weight and Suction: Remember that a heavier carpet cleaner will sink into your carpet. The right portable cleaner should also have a good amount of suction.
  • Attachments: Attachments like stair brushes and upholstery tools help with the cleaning process.  Some models have tools that can handle upholstery and pet messes.
  • Cord and Hose Length: You should get a cleaner with a long cord and hose as this allows you to reach difficult areas while cleaning. Moreover, this enhances ease of use and flexibility.
  • Warranty: Some companies provide a limited warranty that covers parts and defects. Ensure that you understand what the warranty covers before settling for the product.

Buying Recommendations

Recommendations
Best Budget
Best for Carpet and Stairs
Best for Pet Stains
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer Machine with Multi-Purpose Tools, Pair with Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution
SpotBot Pet handsfree Spot and Stain Cleaner with Deep Reach Technology 33N8A
Bissell 3624 Spot Clean Professional Portable Carpet Cleaner - Corded , Black
Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet Upright Carpet Cleaner and Shampooer, Lightweight Machine, Red, FH50251PC
Dimensions
19.5 x 14.2 x 30 inches
16.9 x 9.1 x 12.5 inches
10 x14 x 14 inches
17.5 x 12.3 x 43 inches
Weight
29.1 pounds
12.5 pounds
16.45 pounds
18.5 pounds
Tank Size
One gallon
32 ounces
96 oz.
1.25 gallons
Best For
Carpets, Stairs, Upholstery
Spot treatment
Carpets and Stairs
Cleaning Pet Stains
Best Budget
Recommendations
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer Machine with Multi-Purpose Tools, Pair with Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution
Dimensions
19.5 x 14.2 x 30 inches
Weight
29.1 pounds
Tank Size
One gallon
Best For
Carpets, Stairs, Upholstery
Best for Spot Treatment
SpotBot Pet handsfree Spot and Stain Cleaner with Deep Reach Technology 33N8A
Dimensions
16.9 x 9.1 x 12.5 inches
Weight
12.5 pounds
Tank Size
32 ounces
Best For
Spot treatment
Best for Carpet and Stairs
Recommendations
Bissell 3624 Spot Clean Professional Portable Carpet Cleaner - Corded , Black
Dimensions
10 x14 x 14 inches
Weight
16.45 pounds
Tank Size
96 oz.
Best For
Carpets and Stairs
Best for Pet Stains
Recommendations
Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet Upright Carpet Cleaner and Shampooer, Lightweight Machine, Red, FH50251PC
Dimensions
17.5 x 12.3 x 43 inches
Weight
18.5 pounds
Tank Size
1.25 gallons
Best For
Cleaning Pet Stains

Budget Portable Carpet Cleaners

1. Hoover SteamVac – Editor’s Pick

The Hoover SteamVac offers value for money as its spinning brushes allow you to clean pet stains, built-up grime, and other messes.

Specs
Product Dimensions: 19.5 x 14.2 x 30 inches
Product Weight: 29.1 pounds
Tank Size: One gallon
Best For: Carpets, Stairs, Upholstery
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer Machine with Multi-Purpose Tools, Pair with Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer Machine with Multi-Purpose Tools, Pair with Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution
The Hoover SteamVac offers value for money as its spinning brushes allow you to clean pet stains, built-up grime, and other messes. You can choose between spill pick up, gentle brush, and normal cleaning. Add a boost of detergent to heavily soiled places with a press of a button. Ts 12-amp motor provides heated air, something that allows for quick dry time. Clean furniture and stairs with the upholstery tool and the eight-foot stretch hose.

What we like about it
  • Promotes quick and efficient cleaning
  • Has a powerful motor
  • Comes with two separate tanks
  • Budget-friendly
Drawbacks
  • Has a small dirty water tank
  • Bulky when filled with cleaning solutions
Sale
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery, Deep Cleaning Carpet Shampooer Machine with Multi-Purpose Tools, Pair with Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution
  • THE COMPLETE CLEAN COMBO: The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaning Machine combines five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes and HeatForce faster drying to lift and remove the toughest stains and renew your carpets.
  • VERSATILE TOOLS: Deep cleaning goes beyond just the floor. PowerScrub Deluxe Pet Carpet Cleaners come with a pet tool for stubborn pet messes, an upholstery tool that scrubs and lifts on fabrics, and a crevice tool for hard-to-reach places.
  • DUAL TANK TECHNOLOGY: With individual tanks for clean and dirty water, it’s easy to fill, empty and rinse.

2. Hoover PowerDash

Specs
Product Dimensions: 15.25 X 10.13 X 43.5 Inches
Product Weight: 13 pounds
Tank Size: 0.5-gallon tank capacity
Best For: Carpet cleaning
Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine, Lightweight Carpet Shampooer Machine, Pair with a Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution for a Bright, Refreshed Home
Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine, Lightweight Carpet Shampooer Machine, Pair with a Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution for a Bright, Refreshed Home
Ranked as one of the best budget portable carpet cleaners, the Hoover PowerDash boasts of 2x more cleaning power that handles tough stains and spots. It offers antimicrobial protection to protect your carpet from mold and mildew.

Get shorter drying times thanks to the HeatForce technology. Being 13 pounds means its light and easy to carry around when cleaning different rooms. Enjoy quick refills thanks to the easy detachment from the main unit. Get into tight spots like under the furniture with the cleaning head.

What we like about it
  • Reasonably priced
  • Brush roll comes with antimicrobial protection
  • Easy to use, maintain, and store
  • Portable
Drawbacks
  • Lacks accessories like an upholstery tool
  • Has a small water tank
  • Limited warranty for one year
Sale
Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine, Lightweight Carpet Shampooer Machine, Pair with a Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution for a Bright, Refreshed Home
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND COMPACT: Featuring a lightweight and compact design, the Hoover PowerDash Pet Carpet Cleaning Machine provides efficient cleaning power and easy storage. It’s an excellent choice for small homes and apartments.
  • SMALL BUT MIGHTY: This upright carpet cleaner is perfect for pet messes, high traffic areas, area rugs and small spaces. The antimicrobial PowerSpin pet brush roll helps protect against pet odors.
  • FASTER DRYING: Built with HeatForce technology, the PowerDash helps you enjoy clean, dry carpets in no time.

Portable Carpet Cleaners For Spot Treatment

Some portable carpet cleaners are ideal for spot treatment, some for routine cleaning, and others for deep cleaning.

The best cleaners for spot treatment include:

1. Bissell Handsfree Spot and Stain Cleaner 33N8 – Editor’s Pick

The Hoover SteamVac offers value for money as its spinning brushes allow you to clean pet stains, built-up grime, and other messes.

Specs
Product Dimensions: 16.9 x 9.1 x 12.5 inches
Product Weight: 12.5 pounds
Tank Size: 32 ounces
Best For: Spot treatment
SpotBot Pet handsfree Spot and Stain Cleaner with Deep Reach Technology 33N8A
SpotBot Pet handsfree Spot and Stain Cleaner with Deep Reach Technology 33N8A
The Bissell Handsfree Spot and stain cleaner has Deep Reach Technology that gets to the deepest area of the stain. Get the recommended amount of cleaning solution thanks to the smart system and select the type of stain you’re dealing with as the machine does the hard work for you.

What we like about it
  • Has DeepReach technology to target stains
  • Comes with a powerful motor that helps to dry the carpet
  • Hands-free device
Drawbacks
  • Doesn’t have multiple accessories
SpotBot Pet handsfree Spot and Stain Cleaner with Deep Reach Technology 33N8A
  • Every BISSELL purchase helps save pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
  • Get rid of messes without getting your hands dirty. This hands free portable carpet cleaner does all the scrubbing for you
  • Preset cleaning cycles that automatically spray, brush, and suction to permanently remove both surface and tough set-in pet stains. Just push the button to clean.

2. Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner

Specs
Product Dimensions: 9.7x 13.9x 15 inches
Product Weight: 9 pounds
Tank Size: 36 ounces
Best For: Spot treatment
Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner, FH11300, Red
Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner, FH11300, Red
The Hoover Spotless Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner is a lightweight, yet powerful machine that enables you to clean up any mess immediately.  You can reach deep corners with this versatile cleaner. Its inclusion of antimicrobial material means you don’t have to worry about mildew or bacteria.

With two tanks to separate clean and dirty water, the portable cleaner can also clean stairs, drapes, and furniture. A cord length of 14 and a water level indicator are available on this cleaner.

What we like about it
  • Has antimicrobial materials
  • Self-clean technology for deep cleaning
  • Uses two tanks during cleaning
  • Versatile
Drawbacks
  • May be difficult to fill solution without a measuring cup or funnel
Sale
Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner, FH11300, Red
  • LIGHTWEIGHT: Achieve ultimate portability with this lightweight design to reach and remove stains virtually anywhere
  • CONVENIENT DEEP CLEAN: Spray, scrub, and remove anything from pet messes to everyday mishaps
  • LONGER REACH: Easily reach spots and stains on carpet, upholstery, stairs and more with the 5ft. hose

3. Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner

Specs
Product Dimensions: 16.1 x 11 x 15.7 inches
Product Weight: 19.84 pounds
Tank Size: 0.5 gallons
Best For: Spot treatment
Rug Doctor Wherever They Occur Cleaner, Leading Portable Machine for Extracting Spots on Carpet, Rugs, Stairs, Upholstery and Auto Interiors, Removes Tough Stains and Neutralizes Odors, Small, Red
Rug Doctor Wherever They Occur Cleaner, Leading Portable Machine for Extracting Spots on Carpet, Rugs, Stairs, Upholstery and Auto Interiors, Removes Tough Stains and Neutralizes Odors, Small, Red
Designed for quick clean up, Rug Doctor Portable Spot cleaner comes with carpet-friendly wheels and a retractable handle to allow quick access. Its compact design enables you to slide over surfaces and clean in cabinets with ease. With twice the suction power and removable tanks, the cleaner extracts stains in no time.

Utilize the portable spot cleaner when preparing your family for spring cleaning. The carpet cleaner can handle dirt, grime, set-in spills, and odors. Its fantastic suction tackles food and beverage stains, coffee, wine, oil, and old pet stains. Find rotating bristles on the Rug Doctor that scrubs different surfaces without damaging steam or heat. The suction addition extracts stains and reduces dry time of carpets.

The Rug Doctor Portable Spot cleaner comes with removable tanks that separate clean and dirty water. You don’t have to guess when filling solution and water.

What we like about it
  • Has two times the suction power of other cleaners
  • Portable and has wide-set wheels
  • Comes with a small compact design
Drawbacks
  • It’s heavier compared to other carpet cleaners
Rug Doctor Wherever They Occur Cleaner, Leading Portable Machine for Extracting Spots on Carpet, Rugs, Stairs, Upholstery and Auto Interiors, Removes Tough Stains and Neutralizes Odors, Small, Red
  • Portable Spot Cleaner only weighs 15 pounds, but can hold 64 ounces of solution; removable water tanks are easy to fill and empty
  • Manages deep down stain removal with a powerful handheld oscillating motorized brush that makes 1200 movements per minute
  • Functions with twice the suction of leading competitors to extract stains faster and shorten dry time

Portable Carpet Cleaners For Carpet and Stair Cleaning

1. Bissell Spotclean Pro 3624 – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Product Dimensions: 10 x14 x 14 inches
Product Weight: 16.45 pounds
Tank Size: 96 oz.
Best For: Carpets and Stairs
Bissell 3624 Spot Clean Professional Portable Carpet Cleaner - Corded , Black
Bissell 3624 Spot Clean Professional Portable Carpet Cleaner - Corded , Black
Equipped with impressive scrubbing action and two times professional deep cleaning solution, the Bissell 3624 Professional Portable carpet cleaner is your go-to machine if you need to clean your rugs, carpets, stairs, and more.

With a 22-inches long power cord and a five flex hose, you can quickly clean tough stains in hard to reach places. Accessories like three robust stain tools, six stair tools, and an 8 oz professional deep cleaning formula allow you to get rid of stains on stairs, while the formula guards against future stains.

What we like about it
  • Extended hose for cleaning
  • Superior suction capabilities
  • Gets rid of tough stains on carpets and stairs
Drawbacks
  • It’s challenging to clip the hose to the machine due to the design
Sale
Bissell 3624 Spot Clean Professional Portable Carpet Cleaner - Corded , Black
  • Every Bissell purchase helps save pets. Bissell proudly supports Bissell pet foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
  • Our most powerful portable spot and stain cleaner for carpets, stairs, upholstery, auto interiors, and more.
  • Combines superior suction, scrubbing action and professional cleaning solution to remove stubborn pet stains, embedded dirt and more.

2. Bissell 1716B Spotlifter Deep Cleaner

Specs
Product Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.8 x7.4 inches
Product Weight: 4 pounds
Tank Size: 12 ounces
Best For: Carpets
Bissell Spotlifter Powerbrush Handheld Deep Cleaner, 1716B - Corded
Bissell Spotlifter Powerbrush Handheld Deep Cleaner, 1716B - Corded
The Bissell 1716B comes with a circular brush at the front end, an 18ft. Power cord and a motor with two amps of power. Its 12-ounce dirty tank capacity and three inches cleaning path make this cleaner ideal for carpets. Previous users found it effective on soft and regular carpets.

What we like about it
  • Good for carpet stains
  • Doesn’t have a hose, which makes it easy to carry around
Drawbacks
  • Not ideal for larger areas
  • You have to refill the tank due to its small size
Bissell Spotlifter Powerbrush Handheld Deep Cleaner, 1716B - Corded
  • "SPOTLIFTER" POWERBRUSH VAC/ CLEANER
  • Lifts and removes stains and dirt
  • Unlimited power - 18' power cord

3. Hoover FH11400PC Deluxe Spotless Carpet Cleaner

Specs
Product Dimensions: 9.7 x 13.9 x 15 inches
Product Weight: 16 pounds
Tank Size: 51 ounces
Best For: Carpets
Hoover Carpet Cleaner, Blue Spotless Deluxe
Hoover Carpet Cleaner, Blue Spotless Deluxe
The Hoover FH11400PC comes with tools for customization and a dual tank that separates clean and dirty water. Get anti-microbial protection that prevents your carpet from mold and bacteria. Find a motor that powers the carpet cleaner and the suction that removes dirt in no time.

What we like about it
  • Cleans carpets in no time
  • Easy to use
Drawbacks
  • Suction affected by the hose

Best Portable Carpet Cleaners For Pet Stains

1. Hoover FH50251 Power Scrub – Editor’s Pick

Specs
Product Dimensions: 17.5 x 12.3 x 43 inches
Product Weight: 18.5 pounds
Tank Size: 1.25 gallons
Best For: Cleaning Pet Stains
Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet Upright Carpet Cleaner and Shampooer, Lightweight Machine, Red, FH50251PC
Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet Upright Carpet Cleaner and Shampooer, Lightweight Machine, Red, FH50251PC
Pets shed hair often and their stains can be problematic to remove on carpets. However, the Hoover FH50251 Power scrub can help restore the value of your carpet thanks to its deep clean mode. With an impressive 12-inch path, you can cover a huge area in a short time. Enjoy Hoover’s Quick Clean mode that dries the carpet in less than 45 minutes.

What we like about it
  • Simple to use
  • Has quick clean and rinse modes
  • Impressive 12-inch cleaning path
  • Deep cleaning technology
Drawbacks
  • You need to go slow in both directions
Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet Upright Carpet Cleaner and Shampooer, Lightweight Machine, Red, FH50251PC
  • SPIN SCRUB SYSTEM: Powerfully removes deep-embedded dirt and stains with 360 degree brushes and strong suction while being gentle on your carpet.
  • FAST DRY TIME: Tackle surface stains as they happen with Quick Clean Mode and enjoy dry carpets in 45 minutes.
  • LARGE CAPACITY TANKS: 2 tank system with a 25% larger tank keeps dirty water separate from the clean water so you can clean more and refill less often

2. BISSELL 1400B Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner 7491

Specs
Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 17.2 x 12.5 inches
Product Weight: 13 pounds
Tank Size: 48 ounces
Best For: Pet Stains
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Auto Detailer, with Exclusive Specialty Tools, Green, 1400B
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Auto Detailer, with Exclusive Specialty Tools, Green, 1400B
Designed to handle semi-liquid and sticky messes, the Bissell Multi-Purpose portable carpet cleaner works well for people with pets that leave urine stains or poop piles. With a 15ft cord length and a 48oz tank capacity, the portable cleaner enables you to clean after a pet’s stains with powerful suction and spray.

What we like about it
  • Cleans up pet stains quickly
  • Comes with a 15ft cord for easy reach
Drawbacks
  • Lacks multiple accessories
Sale
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Auto Detailer, with Exclusive Specialty Tools, Green, 1400B
  • EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
  • POWERFUL SUCTION. Remove tough pet spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, car interiors, and more.
  • EXCLUSIVE SPECIALTY TOOLS: HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool and Spraying Crevice Tool only available with model 1400B.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right portable carpet cleaner doesn’t have to be complicated. You need to decide on what features are important, the type of cleaning you’re looking to perform, and your budget before choosing any cleaner. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, the Bissell 1400B is a fantastic choice. The best overall pick is the Rug Doctor portable spot cleaner that comes with powerful suction, a compact design, and the ability to extract stains effortlessly and quickly.

Last update on 2024-11-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Leave a Reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

settings gear package bag