5 Best Carpet Cleaners Of 2025

Chances are, you probably have a collection of vacuum cleaners that efficiently eliminate everyday dust, pet hair, lint, and food crumbs from your carpets and upholstery. However, vacuuming alone may not suffice. There are instances when a thorough wet cleaning becomes necessary, and that’s when a reliable carpet cleaner comes into play. A wet carpet cleaner employs a combination of water and a cleaning solution to effectively wash carpets and upholstery fabrics, dissolving stains and deeply embedded dirt.

In our carpet cleaner testing process, we evaluate each machine by utilizing a pre-stained, industry-standard white carpet. We meticulously measure the carpet’s condition both before and after cleaning to gauge the effectiveness of each model’s stain removal capabilities. Additionally, we consider factors such as the drying time of the carpets, the proficiency of the machines in eliminating both fresh and dried stains, the user-friendliness of each appliance, and other relevant aspects to provide a comprehensive assessment.

How we test the carpet cleaners

We assess the performance of rug cleaning machines by subjecting them to a rigorous evaluation on pre-soiled, industry-standard white carpet test panels. Before initiating the testing process, we measure the color of the carpet and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set up each cleaner appropriately. Every machine undergoes an equal number of passes over the dirty rug, after which the carpet panel is weighed to determine the amount of moisture left behind by each machine.

We carefully observe the drying time of the rug and subsequently re-measure the color of each stain at the same location to gauge the effectiveness of the machine in cleaning the carpet.

For portable machines, we specifically focus on their ability to eliminate stains from test rug and upholstery swatches. We apply various stains, including red wine and chocolate, both in fresh and set-in states, and assess how well each portable machine performs in removing these stains. Additionally, we evaluate their proficiency in eliminating odors, such as ammonia, from the test swatches. Our comprehensive testing procedure ensures a thorough evaluation of the cleaning capabilities of these machines.

We conduct a meticulous evaluation of each model’s user manual. Additionally, various aspects such as weight, included accessories, battery charge/runtime, and noise level are assessed and contribute to the overall score assigned to each model. We also carefully examine the ease of assembly, usage, and storage of the appliances. Attachments are tested on upholstered furniture or upholstery fabric swatches, and we often seek feedback from consumer testers who visit our Lab to provide insights on the ease of use and maneuverability of the machines. This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough assessment of the user experience with each model.

1. Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro Full-Size Carpet Cleaner

Over the years, our team of experts has extensively tested various full-size and portable carpet cleaners from Bissell, including a previous version of the model in question. These tests have consistently demonstrated the effectiveness and user-friendly nature of Bissell’s carpet cleaners. Notably, Bissell was the pioneer in incorporating HeatWave technology into their upright carpet cleaners, which helps maintain the temperature of the water in the tank, resulting in enhanced cleaning performance.

Based on our experience, we have found that using warmer water does lead to improved carpet cleaning outcomes. We have confidence in the brand’s performance and feel comfortable recommending this particular model. Furthermore, it has received over 19,000 five-star ratings on Amazon, further validating its positive reputation.

Specifications

Features

• Every Purchase Saves Pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets..Amperage : 6.8 amps
• Engineered to be our best and most powerful carpet cleaning system for the toughest pet stains and odors even removes skunk odor. Can be used on bare floors.
• MAX Clean Mode. Packing in 12 rows of rotating Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, it delivers professional grade cleaning to remove deep down embedded stains, dirt and odors.
• Express Clean Mode. Delivers dry carpets in about 30 minutes.
• Attack the Toughest Stains. Activate the CleanShot pretreater to deliver a concentrated stream of cleaning solution right where you need it.
• Lightweight Design (less than 18 pounds) and Low-Profile Foot. Makes it easy to use and maneuver around furniture.
• Includes Bonus 3″ Tough Stain Tool and 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool. Removes pet hair, stains and odors from upholstery.

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Pros

• The brush roll cover can be easily taken off for convenient cleaning purposes.
• The Express Clean Mode enables carpets to dry in approximately 30 minutes.
• Features a built-in spray nozzle specifically designed for pre-treating stains.

Cons

• The hose and tools need to be stored separately from the carpet cleaner.
• When using the hose and hand tools, the brush rolls will continue to rotate.

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Bissell has introduced several innovations that simplify the carpet cleaning process. One of these features is a targeted spray nozzle, which allows you to effortlessly apply the cleaning solution from the tank directly to stains by simply pressing a button with your foot. Additionally, there is a versatile two-in-one Pet Upholstery tool that can be used both in a dry state to remove stubborn pet hair and in a wet state to tackle stains on furniture fabrics and mattresses. Unlike models with a single brush roll, Bissell’s dual DirtLifter PowerBrush utilizes two brush rolls to provide enhanced cleaning action while maintaining a relatively lightweight and highly maneuverable design.

At the WeHomeDeco Lab, we believe that post-use clean-up and storage are just as important as performance. Therefore, we appreciate this particular model for its removable brush roll cover, which facilitates easier and more thorough cleaning. It’s important to note that you will need to store the hose and tools separately in a bag, and it’s crucial to be mindful that the brush rolls continue to rotate even when using the hose and handheld tools, ensuring they don’t inadvertently damage any floor surfaces they come into contact with.

2. Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner

Based on our observations, Hoover’s floor-cleaning appliances consistently provide excellent value for their price, and this carpet cleaner is no different. While it may not always be the most budget-friendly option among the listed models, it’s important to note that appliance prices often vary. Nevertheless, this model offers numerous advantages in terms of performance and innovative features, making it a worthwhile investment even if there is a slight increase in price.

Specifications

Features

• AUTOMATIC CLEANING TECHNOLOGY: Push forward to clean and pull back to dry
• SPOT CHASER PRETREAT SPRAY WAND: Removable handle with separate solution tank tackles set-in pet stains with the power of the Oxy Formula
• AUTO MIX: Precisely mixes and dispenses solution for optimal carpet washing
• AUTO DRY BUTTON: Delivers powerful extraction and HeatForce for faster drying
• DUAL TANK SYSTEM: Keeps water and solution separate from the dirty water tank
• TRIGGERLESS DESIGN: Delivers a deep clean as easy as vacuuming
• WARRANTY: 5-Year Limited Warranty

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Pros

• Address stains without the need to bend down.
• Efficiently cleans during the forward pass and facilitates drying during the backward pass.
• Automatically combines cleaner with water to minimize messiness.

Cons

• Higher weight compared to other models
• Shorter cord length

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The Hoover SmartWash Pet Pro is a full-sized carpet cleaner that offers a unique feature—a removable stain-pretreating wand. This wand allows you to address stains without the need to bend over or grab additional bottles of carpet cleaner. It is battery-operated and has its own canister for stain solution. Simply detach the wand, aim, and spray to treat a stain.

One standout feature is its automatic mixing of water and cleaning formula, which is dispensed through its double brush rolls. This eliminates the need for manual measurement or holding triggers. The cleaner operates by cleaning as you push it forward and then suctioning and drying the carpet as you pull it back. Waiting for carpets to dry can be inconvenient, particularly in busy households. Therefore, the “dry-only” mode is highly appreciated as it emits heat to accelerate drying while moving the cleaner forward, enabling quicker use of the carpets.

The cleaner is also equipped with an 8-foot hose and a 22-foot cord, offering sufficient length for cleaning stairs, hard-to-reach areas, and large upholstery pieces. However, it is worth noting that both the hose and cord are slightly shorter compared to some other full-size models we have tested. This cleaner received a high rating, particularly due to its user-friendly nature, and all reviewers expressed their intention to incorporate it into their regular cleaning routine.

3. Bissell Pet Stain Eraser PowerBrush

Even if you already own a full-size carpet cleaner, there are instances when dealing with just an occasional spot on the carpet or couch may not warrant using a larger appliance. During such times, a lightweight portable carpet cleaner becomes a practical solution. In our recent evaluation of this category, this particular Bissell model emerged as the top choice for stain and odor removal, sound, run time, and more. Surprisingly, it outperformed the larger models we tested.

It effortlessly eliminated fresh and dried stains from red wine and blueberry pie, while being easy to set up, clean, and store. This ensures that it’s always ready to tackle spills promptly, making speed a priority. Additionally, it stood out as one of the quietest models among those we tested.

Specifications

Features

• Every Purchase Saves Pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
• Rotating DirtLifter PowerBrush. Our only portable carpet cleaner with a rotating brush to power through tough spots and stains with minimal effort.
• Grab & Go Convenience. Cordless machine includes a lithium-ion battery with extended run time. Power Rating: 7.2 V
• OXY Formula included. Instantly remove tough pet messes, embedded dirt, spills, and more.
• Ready-to-Use Formula. No mixing with water required, plus formula can be stored in the machine, so it’s already ready to clean when needed.
• BONUS Stationary Pet Tool made to tackle tough pet messes.

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Pros

• Convenient
• Pre mixed formula

Cons

• Takes a while to charge

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The carpet cleaner features a built-in rotating brush that delicately agitates the carpet pile, working in conjunction with Bissell’s pre-mixed detergent solution for thorough deep cleaning. However, the brush can be turned off when dealing with stains on delicate fabrics. For handling pet messes, there is a convenient nubby rubber tool that simplifies the process and reduces mess. It’s important to note that due to its 20-minute runtime, it may not be suitable for cleaning large areas in one go. Additionally, the small tanks might require refilling when dealing with multiple stains. Nonetheless, it remains an excellent choice for homes with limited carpeting or a minimal number of stains to clean.

4. Rug Doctor Pet Portable Spot Cleaner

The carpet cleaner features a built-in rotating brush that delicately agitates the carpet pile, working in conjunction with Bissell’s pre-mixed detergent solution for thorough deep cleaning. However, the brush can be turned off when dealing with stains on delicate fabrics. For handling pet messes, there is a convenient nubby rubber tool that simplifies the process and reduces mess. It’s important to note that due to its 20-minute runtime, it may not be suitable for cleaning large areas in one go. The small tanks might require refilling when dealing with multiple stains. Nonetheless, it remains an excellent choice for homes with limited carpeting or a minimal number of stains to clean.

Specifications

Features

• 2X SUCTION POWER* (compared to leading comparable portable spot cleaners). The Rug Doctor Pet Portable Spot Cleaner Machine deep cleans and eliminates pet stains and odors for professional grade results.
• HANDHELD DUAL ACTION PET TOOL with rubberized bristles removes pet hair, tough stains and odors. Easily removes embedded dirt, stains and everyday pet accidents like urine and vomit.
• PORTABLE, LIGHTWEIGHT, COMPACT design features carpet-friendly wheels and a retractable handle. Perfect for everyday cleaning, spring cleaning, touch-ups or deep-down cleaning.
• EXPERTLY ENGINEERED to eliminate the toughest pet messes and everyday accidents from carpet, upholstery, area rugs, stairs, mattresses, pet beds, car interiors, and more.
• PROFESSIONAL GRADE CLEAN with dual tank system keeps clean and dirty water separate.

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Pros

• Retractable handles
• Amazing removal of stain

Cons

• Heavy
• Short hose

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The Rug Doctor Pet Portable Spot Cleaner is equipped with a dual tank system, ensuring a clear separation between clean water and dirty water. Adding water to the clean tank is a straightforward process. Just detach the tank from the main body by pulling it upward and then open a locking cap underneath to access the hose and seal for easy removal.

Fortunately, there’s no need for guesswork when filling the tank. Clear fill lines indicate the appropriate levels for water and cleaning solution. Simply fill the water up to the first line and add the cleaning solution up to the second line. Emptying and cleaning the dirty water tank is a breeze as the filter and cover can be easily removed. This feature is crucial as it enables you to thoroughly clean the tank, preventing any unpleasant odors from developing.

With this tool, removing liquid from carpets becomes an easy task. However, it’s important to note that this is just the initial step, and you’ll still need to apply a cleaning solution for optimal results. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of the three rows of bristles in agitating the carpet is evident. This carpet cleaner has gained significant popularity on Amazon, garnering over 1,000 reviews. While it may not be as widely known as the Bissell brand, consumers who have used this machine are pleased with its performance.

One of the key strengths of this carpet cleaner lies in its oscillating brushes, which provide strong agitation. In fact, some users even claim that it outperforms a competing Bissell portable cleaner that is available at a lower price point. Users have successfully tackled various types of stains, including coffee and pet stains, with remarkable results when utilizing this machine.

5. Tineco CARPET ONE Smart Carpet Cleaner Machine

Carpet cleaners are becoming more advanced in today’s market, and Tineco’s Carpet One Smart Carpet Cleaner showcases the integration of intuitive technology in this field. Similar to the Tineco combo vacuum mops that have been tested in the Good Housekeeping Cleaning Lab, this carpet cleaner utilizes an app and automatically adjusts the suction and water flow based on the amount of dirt and debris it detects during operation.

Voice prompts provide instructions for refilling the clean water tank and emptying the dirty water tank, while lights indicate when the cleaned area is free of dirt. Furthermore, its built-in heater ensures that the cleaning solution remains hot for effective stain removal, and it also aids in faster drying of carpets.

Specifications

Features

• HIGH-POWER SUCTION WITH NO DIRTY WATER RESIDUE – With a powerful 1300 W motor, the Tineco CARPET ONE cranks out 130 AW of effective suction power to clean carpets and extract water residue. Plus, superior bristles tackle deeply embedded dirt, stains, and carpet odors with ease.
• WASH BETTER WITH HEATEDWASH TECHNOLOY – Equipped with a PTC heater and a temperature controller, the Tineco CARPET ONE blows down hot air to maintain 104 °F precise water temperature, removing stains faster and freshening up your carpet after every wash.
• QUICK CARPET DRYING – The machine dries cleaned carpets with a 167°F wind using a special DRY-ONLY mode. A Dryness Meter on the display screen of this machine keeps you informed of the rug’s state of dryness. Drying process research was done at our lab. *Depending on the circumstances, household outcomes may differ.
• SMART SENSING TECHNOLOGY – Equipped with iLoop smart dust sensor, Tineco CARPET ONE detects how dirty the carpet is and automatically applies optimal suction power and water flow for a smarter, more effective cleaning process. The LED display screen shows the real-time status as you clean.
• CLEAN FURTHER WITH SPOT CLEANER – Tineco CARPET ONE cleans more than just rugs. With an additional hose and a stain-remover tool, you can clean upholstery, carpeted stairs, car interiors, and other hard-to-reach areas – even stubborn stains – with ease.

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Pros

• Compact size
• Simple to navigate and store
• Features audible notifications and feedback

Cons

• Expensive

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In our testing, we discovered that this particular model excelled in carpet cleaning, offering superior performance compared to larger machines. Our expert, who utilizes it for cleaning carpets, area rugs, and upholstery in her own home, was particularly impressed by the LED display, which provides valuable information such as the cleaning mode and carpet dryness level. Transitioning from carpet to upholstery cleaning is a breeze with the convenient hose attachment. Weighing just 16.5 pounds, this model is lighter than many other full-size cleaners. Additionally, its compact design allows for easier storage, retrieval, and setup, ultimately encouraging more frequent usage. However, it’s important to note that the included 8-foot hose and handheld accessory cannot be stored onboard.

Final thoughts

Although renting a carpet cleaning machine may initially seem convenient, when considering the effort involved in picking up and returning the appliance, the additional cost of cleaning solutions, and the likelihood that the rented machine may not be as efficient or clean as a new one, purchasing your own machine may be a more favorable choice. If you frequently encounter spills and pet accidents or have a home with extensive carpeting that requires regular cleaning, owning a machine can save you time, energy, and money in the long term. Furthermore, owning a carpet cleaning machine enables you to promptly address stains and messes, leading to better maintenance and care for your carpets.