10 Best Small Carpet Cleaners 2025 in the United States

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.

The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner stands out as a solid choice for those looking to keep their carpets and upholstery fresh, especially pet owners. One of the key strengths of this product is its powerful suction, which effectively removes tough stains and odors, thanks to its specialized cleaning formula. The 48 oz. tank capacity is also impressive, allowing for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills, which is a real time-saver.

Portability is another highlight. Weighing around 9.7 pounds, this cleaner is easy to maneuver, making it suitable for various surfaces in your home and even car interiors. Its compact design contributes to its versatility, allowing you to tackle messes in tight spaces effectively. The included attachments, like the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool and the Tough Stain Tool, further enhance its cleaning capabilities.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the corded power source provides consistent suction, the cord length may limit your movement, especially in larger rooms or areas far from an outlet. Additionally, although it is designed for ease of use, the maintenance process requires some commitment, especially with cleaning the self-cleaning tool after each use to maintain performance.

The Shark Carpet Cleaner Machine, also known as the StainStriker, is a strong contender in the small-carpet-cleaners category, especially for homes with pets. Weighing under 9 lbs and with a tank capacity of 2 liters, it is lightweight and easy to maneuver. Its powerful suction ensures that liquid and dirt are effectively removed from carpets, area rugs, couches, and upholstery, making them look almost new. This machine is particularly beneficial for eliminating tough stains and odors, including pet urine and smoke, thanks to its dual-activated stain eliminator formula that doesn’t require pre-mixing.

The included 4 tools—crevice tool, 3.5” reversible bristle tool, 7” wide path tool, and pet tool—provide versatility for different cleaning needs, from tight spots to broader surfaces. However, there are a few points to consider. The power source is battery-powered, which may limit usage time compared to corded models. Additionally, some users might find the maintenance a bit demanding, as hand washing is required for cleaning.

Despite these minor drawbacks, its ease of storage, effective cleaning solutions, and comprehensive attachments make it a great choice for those in need of a reliable and versatile carpet cleaner, particularly in pet-friendly homes.