Reviews on the Best Portable Carpet Cleaners: Say Goodbye to Dirt!

Having a home with a carpeted floor is a luxury to have! Maintaining them is where the hard work comes in. 

Starting from the stains to the stink that comes with it, is a hassle to even think about! 

Carrying a large traditional vacuum to clean up all the stains and dirt they leave behind is not always practical. That is where portable carpet cleaners come in handy. They are easy to carry and more convenient for hourly use. 

Our portable carpet cleaner reviews talk about the best picks in the market and rank them in order. 

Keep scrolling to choose the best one for you!

Best Portable Carpet Cleaners: A Shortlist

Best Portable Carpet Cleaner

In a hurry? Here’s a summary of the top three:

  1. Editor’s Choice: Hoover Spotless Portable 
  2. Best Compact: Bissell Multi-Purpose Cleaner 
  3. Best for Pets: Bissell ProHeat 2X

Quick SUmmary

I have tried and tested a lot of different carpet cleaners and found these three to be the best and most functional for most households. If you are interested to know about my other picks, check out the review section listed below! 

Hoover Spotless Portable cleaner is my number one pick based on a lot of different factors. It’s fast, efficient, and an excellent value for money.  

The motor on this cleaner is powerful. This one provides a deep and thorough cleaning experience. You won’t have to go over a space more than once. 

Another unique thing about this gadget is its multipurpose antimicrobial tool that prevents any bacteria and molds from growing. So it is always fresh to use!

This carpet cleaner is the most compact yet equally powerful one out there. I first thought it was a cute gadget until I plugged it in. This one is a multipurpose gadget that can be used on a wide range of surfaces. 

The compact design allows you to carry it anywhere. Plus, it requires only a small cupboard to store. So for smaller apartments, this is a very convenient spot cleaner to have. Give it a try!

This one is for all the pet owners out there. I bet you are tired of cleaning up the mess your pet makes. Especially if you have dogs, they just ruin carpets. 

The Bissell ProHeat 2X cleaner has multiple cleaning features to remove any tough pet stains and even odors. Yes, it will altogether remove any odors from your carpets and upholstery. I find this rather handy when you don’t want to bring out a large vacuum to clean a small space.

It is the best pet stain remover I have tried. No wonder its nickname is PetPro!

List of the Best Portable Carpet Cleaners

RANKNAMERATINGSHOPS
#1Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner

Product Dimensions: 15.50×10.50×13.50 inches
Features: 5ft cleaning hose, 14ft power cord
Brand: Hoover
Color: Red
Model: VIPRB-FH11300PC
Manufacturer: Hoover
Color Category: Multicolor
9.9Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#2Bissell Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

Brand: Bissell
Model: 1400BSurface Type: Carpet, Upholstery, Auto, Stairs
Special Feature: Portable, Compact
Color: Green
Dimensions: 8.2 x 17.2 x 12.5 inches
Weight: 9.65 pounds
Cord length: 15 feet
Formula Included: Spot & Stain
Assembly Required: Yes
Warranty Description: 1-year limited
Batteries Required: No
9.8Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#3Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Carpet Cleaner

Brand: Bissell
Power Source: Corded
Color: 1986
Surface Recommendation: Carpet
Model Name: ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro
Product Dimensions: 15 x 12.5 x 43.5 inches
Item Weight:‎ 17.5 pounds
Assembly Required:‎ Yes
Warranty Description: 5-years limited warranty
Batteries Required:‎ No
Surface Type: Low Pile Carpet, Stairs, Upholstery, Carpet, Area Rugs, Pet Beds
9.8Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#4NaceCare GVE370 George 2 Stage Carpet Spotter

Package Dimension: 27.2 x 15 x 14.4 inches
Item Weight: 26.5 pounds
Manufacturer: NaceCare Solutions
Vacuum Motor Watts: 1000 W
Noise Level DB(A): 70
Pump Power: 30 W
Pump Flow: 0.3 GPM
Power Cord Length: 42 feet
Hose Length: 10 feet
Voltage: 120V, 60Hz
9.8Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#5BISSELL Little Green ProHeat Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

Dimensions: 8.2 x 17.2 x 12.5 inches
Weight: 13.4 pounds
Cord length: 15 feet
Manufacturer: Bissell
9.7Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#6Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner Vacuum

Brand: Rug Doctor
Special Feature: Portable
Color: Red
Dimensions: 16.1 x 11 x 15.7 inches
Weight: 19.84 pounds
Included Components : Carpet washer, Wheels, Carpet Cleaner, Water Filter, Attachment Hose, Stair Tool, Small Carpet Cleaner, Carpet Conditioner, Handheld carpet cleaner, Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner, Water Tanks, Hand Tool Attachment, Collapsible Handle, Portable Carpet Cleaner, Spot Carpet Cleaner, Cord
9.7Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#7BISSELL SpotClean Portable Spot and Stain Carpet Cleaner

Brand: Bissell
Model; 2694
Surface Recommendation: Upholstery, Carpet
Unit Count: 1 Count
Product Dimensions: 6.5 x 12 x 14.5 inches
Weight: 2.31 pounds
9.7Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#8Hoover Onepwr Spotless Go

Brand: Hoover
Special Feature: Cordless
Color: White
Model Name: ONEPWR Spotless GO Cordless
Item Weight: 7 pounds
Product Dimensions:13 x 10 x 15 inches
Warranty: 2 years 
9.6Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#9BLACK+DECKER Spillbuster

Brand: BLACK+DECKER
Color: Blue
Surface Recommendation: Upholstery, Carpet
Model Name: BHSB320JP
Product Dimensions: 19 x 8 x 9 inches
Item Weight: 5.4 pounds
Warranty Description: 2-year limited warranty
Batteries Required?: Yes
9.6Check Latest Price
Read Full Review
#10AutoRight C900054.M Wagner Spraytech SteamMachine

Package Dimensions: 17.1 x 12.5 x 10.6 inches
Item Weight: 9.75 pounds
Manufacturer: AutoRight
Volume: 40 fluid ounces
Scent: Clear
Assembly Required: No
Warranty Description: 2-years limited
Batteries Required: No
Included Components: Multi-Purpo Cleaner
9.5Check Latest Price

10 Best Portable Carpet Cleaners: Detailed Review  

Confused about which cleaner is best for you? Scroll down and analyze them for yourself.

01. Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner [Editor’s Choice]

No matter how many carpet cleaners I try, there is nothing like the Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet cleaner. It’s smart, cheap, and efficient. It’s a household favorite for a reason, and I am here to tell you why!

The hose on Hoover Spotless is five feet long which provides ultimate suction power. It will pull out any dirt and filth from your carpets, upholstery, and stairs. Yes, you can use this to even clean stairs. It makes this tricky job super convenient to do. 

The multipurpose antimicrobial tool does not let any bacteria or mildew form on the brush. So the bristles are essentially self-sanitizing. This one is particularly great if you live in a humid climate. Talk about being protective!

On top of that, the motor on the cleaner is super powerful, so it leaves no traces of water on the surface. The hose sucks out all the water until it’s dry. Okay, maybe not completely dry, but enough to keep the furniture safe from losing its integrity and quality. This one makes cleaning an easy and efficient process. 

The dual tank technology keeps the dirty water at bay from the clean water. This one means your carpets won’t ever feel muddy or dirty while cleaning. You can empty the grimey water and replace it comfortably. While it does not come with a medium-sized tank, you don’t need to keep an eye on it. It shuts down automatically when it reaches the limit. 

While we are on the topic of cleaning, the hose on this cleaner can be stuck inside the cleaning port to give it a good rinse. This one ended my worries of the hose being all clogged up!

This carpet cleaner is for dirt picking purposes. You might need to go over the stains a few times for them to vanish. It might be a bit of hard work, but trust me, this carpet cleaner will become essential in your household for years and years to come.

Product Specifications:

  • Features: 5 feet cleaning hose, 14 feet power cord
  • Brand: Hoover
  • Color: Red
  • Model: VIPRB-FH11300PC
  • Manufacturer: Hoover
  • Color Category: Multicolor
  • Manufacturer Part Number: FH11300PC
  • Assembled Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 15.50 x 10.50 x 13.50 Inches

Pros

  • Good motor provides efficient suction keeping the spot dry after cleaning.
  • Excellent brushes for deep cleaning.
  • Efficient in water usage.
  • Precise and narrow sprayer.
  • Antibacterial Self-cleaning hose which cleans the whole machine.
  • Easy disassembly makes it easier to clean.
  • Automatic shutdown feature when the tank is filled with dirt.

Cons

  • Only allotted for cleaning small areas.
  • It does not always automatically scrub off the stains in the carpet, may need to perform multiple sweeps.

02. Bissell Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner [Best compact cleaner]

The minor things in life often have the most incredible power. This Bissell Multi-Purpose portable carpet cleaner is proof of this statement! 

The powerful suction of this cleaner will genuinely surprise you after your first try. When I used this cleaner for the first time, I could not believe how much dirt and gunk was coming out of my rugs through this tiny gadget. 

You will soon overlook its size of  8.2 x 17.2 x 12.5 inches. Use the spray and scrub action along with its ample power to clean up all areas of your home. You can also use it for your car and any vehicle! This one is convenient. 

The reason why this cleaner is so high on my list is due to the compact design. You don’t have to worry about carrying it to different areas. Thanks to its light and small body, it is effortless to move around. Besides, there’s no need to make extra space for this! Just a little corner in any cabinet will fit it. I think this is a beneficial purchase for anyone living in a smaller apartment. 

What I love about this carpet cleaner is how low maintenance it is. Not only does it provide excellent cleaning results, but it is also self-cleaning. All you have to do is empty the removable water tank and give it a light rinse under the sink! For the hose, the Hydro rinse tool attachment does a great job of unclogging it. 

You need to note that if you have a pet, this is not the cleaner for you. 

This model is not great for removing hair and fur from the surface. It was specifically designed to clean out dirt and gunk only. If your furry friends are leaving litter stains on the carpet, look for something else on the list.

Product Specifications:

  • Brand: Bissell
  • Model: 1400B
  • Surface Type: Carpet, Upholstery, Auto, and Stairs
  • Special Feature: Portable, Compact
  • Color: Green
  • Dimensions: 8.2 x 17.2 x 12.5 inches
  • Weight: 9.65 pounds
  • Cord length: 15 feet
  • Manufacturer: Bissell
  • Formula Included: Spot & Stain
  • Assembly Required: Yes
  • Number of Puzzle Pieces: 1
  • Warranty Description: 1 year limited
  • Batteries Required: No
  • Included Components: Brush

Pros

  • Good suction power.
  • Easy-empty dirt tank.
  • 3” tough stain tool for hard-to-reach areas.
  • Lightweight.
  • Easy to store.

Cons

  • Small cleaning solution tank.
  • Not the best for pet litter stains.

03. Bissell ProHeat 2X: Best Pet Stain Remover

So what to do when you love the Bissell ProHeat line, but you have pets? Well, the Bissell ProHeat 2X is called the Pet Pro for a reason. There aren’t a lot of carpet cleaners/vacuums that thoroughly clean pet stains from textured surfaces. This one, however, does it effectively well!

This one is not related to this gadget’s performance, but purchasing this vacuum can save pets. Bissell proudly supports their Bissell Pet Foundation. Their goal is to keep as many homeless pets as possible. Pet lovers made this device for pet owners. No wonder it’s such a classic pick!

Bissell ProHeat 2X is engineered to be their best and most powerful carpet cleaners ever! It can remove the toughest pet stains and odors. Even those skunk odors that we can not stand for more than 3 seconds get easily removed by this cleaner. If you have multiple pets, this is a godsend for you!

The MAX Clean Mode on this vacuum comes with 12 rows of rotating Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes. So it will provide you with a professional-grade cleaning experience. I tried to clean a very old crusty rug with this to check how well it works. It removed all the deep stains and years of buildup dirt!

The Express Clean Mode is another versatile feature. If you live in a humid climate, drying up rugs and carpets can take a long time. This one delivers dry carpets in under 30 minutes! 

The CleanShot penetrator can provide a concentrated stream of cleaning solution right at a specific area or spot. So removing stains becomes an effortless task. You also don’t end up wasting your cleaning solutions by using too much. 

What else? It’s portable, of course! The lightweight design with less than 18 pounds of weight is excellent for carrying around everywhere. The low-profile foot makes Bissell ProHeat 2X very easy to function. So anyone with disabilities can use it too.

Product Specifications: 

  • Brand: Bissell
  • Power Source: Corded
  • Color: 1986
  • Surface Recommendation: Carpet
  • Model Name: ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro
  • Product Dimensions: 15 x 12.5 x 43.5 inches
  • Item Weight:‎ 17.5 pounds
  • Assembly Required:‎ Yes
  • Warranty Description: 5-year limited warranty
  • Batteries Required:‎ No
  • Surface Type: Low Pile Carpet, Stairs, Upholstery, Carpet, Area Rugs, and Pet Beds

Pros

  • Heavy-duty construction makes it very durable.
  • Easy to sue and function.
  • Removes any type of stains and buildups.
  • One of the best pet stain removers ever.
  • Gives a professional cleaning look.
  • Low-maintenance cleaning experience.
  • It is an excellent value of money.

Cons

  • The warranty is only a year long.

04. NaceCare GVE370 George 2 Stage Carpet Spotter (Classic Choice)

Whenever I think of a reliable carpet cleaner brand, NaceCare comes to mind instantly. Their George 2 Stage Carpet cleaner is a classic and powerful model for any type of cleaning needs. Whether you are looking for a deep cleaner or a spot cleaner, this gadget can do it. 

This cleaner has a powerful 1.3Hp vacuum motor that removes dirt and debris very fast. It also comes with a 2-year warranty providing excellent water recovery. 

The motor is capable of providing a 100″ water lift and 95 cfm of airflow. I think this is an excellent investment for any household. With this high-strength motor, you get a 30 psi pump that provides enough power without using too much water. 

Have you ever tried a carpet cleaner that makes the carpet soaking wet after using? This one is specifically designed not to do that. So it removes the dirt and stain and keeps water bare minimum in the fabric.

The handle on this carpet cleaner is built to be travel-friendly. So you can carry it around without feeling too heavy. This one is useful for dirty dumpling water and cleaning any space in your home. 

Suppose you are specifically looking for something that can work well for spotting, upholstery, and vehicle cleaning. In that case, this is a superb carpet and vacuum cleaner to look into. The polypropylene tanks on this cleaner provide maximum durability and mobility. So you can use it every single day without any issue.

Product Specifications:

  • Package Dimensions: 27.2 x 15 x 14.4 inches
  • Item Weight: 26.5 pounds
  • Manufacturer: NaceCare Solutions
  • Vacuum Motor Power: 1000 W
  • Noise Level DB(A): 70 
  • Pump Power: 30 W
  • Pump Flow: 0.3 GPM
  • Power Cord Length: 42 feet
  • Hose Length: 10 feet
  • Voltage: 120V, 60Hz

Pros

  • Durable and well built. You can use it every day.
  • Easy to use and move around.
  • Comes with a 2-year warranty.
  • Great for spot cleaning and vehicle maintenance.

Cons

  • Some of the accessories need to be purchased separately.

05. BISSELL Little Green ProHeat Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner [Best Spa for Carpets]

For those tough stains and impurities, cold water is not going to do the job. A hot cleaning sesh is more relaxing than a cold one. It’s more effective too! The Bissell ProHeat Cleaner gives your carpet that experience. 

It comes with a built-in heater. That’s right; you get a heater inside that provides up to 25 degrees of temperature. This one is ideal for keeping the house looking and feeling fresh. The portable machine is great for carrying around in the house to give any area an excellent hot wash! 

But ensure that you never carry the cleaner while it’s in use! 

The tough stain tool, along with the crevice tool, is excellent for reaching any difficult corners. So for those days when cleaning feels exhausting, this cleaner will make the task effortless. 

You can use the crevice tools to clean all those tough spaces in between the car seats. Remember those? What a nightmare to clean! 

Do you know the best part of this cleaner? The Bissell Stain and Odor Formula that comes with it acts as an air freshener for your house. It gets rid of all the funky smells, so your space will always smell fresh. 

Clean doesn’t only mean shiny; it includes the scent and aroma of space too. Bad smells provide bad energy and aura. It’s not welcoming. So this is an excellent cleaner for that. 

However, the nozzle on this cleaner is not very good for picking up pet hair. It can remove smaller amounts of hair, but I don’t recommend trying this one if you have multiple pets. 

To its defense, it wasn’t made for that purpose. I have added some excellent pet hair removal cleaners to the list. So keep on reading to find out more.

You may also like: Bissell Pet Stain Eraser Review

Product Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 8.2 x 17.2 x 12.5 inches
  • Weight: 13.4 pounds
  • Cord length: 15 feet
  • Manufacturer: Bissell

Pros

  • Built-in heater for enhanced cleaning.
  • Good suction power.
  • Cleans all crevices.
  • Minimizes odor.
  • Pros List

Cons

  • Weak nozzle.

06. Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner Vacuum [A Doctor a Day Keeps the Dirt Away]

We all have heard about the Rug Doctor Cleaner Vacuum. It’s one of the most popular ones in the market. And for some pretty good reasons. This cleaner glides along the surface with ease using its suction power to clean your rugs effectively. It’s so effortless that you will feel genuine surprise after first use. 

Use the motorized brush to clean your carpet, upholstery, and car seats with ease. When it comes to the suction power for this gadget, don’t even expect anything ordinary from it. It doesn’t give you the average suction power like others. 

It has twice the power ensuring all the stains will break up and vanish! No matter the surface or the type of stain, it can remove it. So I think it’s a great gadget for busy households. 

Whether you are dealing with wine stains or pet tillers, this cleaner vacuum will effectively suck it in a while, removing odors along the way.

Not only is this cleaner lightweight, but it also comes with wheels to derive it anywhere you want. Wheels along with the easy carry handle give you the feeling of moving a travel suitcase! Trust me; it’s effortless to use in a larger space. 

The clean and diary water in this is kept separately in dual canisters. You can take out the removable canisters to pour in the cleaning solution to empty the dirty water in the sink. Plus, you don’t even need to guess the amount of solution to put in with the marked cleaning tank! 

I do have one criticism for it. This baby creates a slight mess if the dirty water talk fills up more than capacity. It leaks out. 

Hence, the best solution is not to let the tank overflow and rather empty it frequently. After all, a small-sized cleaner like this can only do so much! It’s very unlikely to get large amounts of water capacity on such a small device anyway!

Product Specifications:

  • Brand: Rug Doctor
  • Special Feature: Portable
  • Color: Red
  • Dimensions: 16.1 x 11 x 15.7 inches
  • Weight: 19.84 pounds
  • Included Components: Carpet washer, Wheels, Carpet Cleaner, Water Filter, Attachment Hose, Stair Tool, Small Carpet Cleaner, Carpet Conditioner, Handheld carpet cleaner, Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner, Water Tanks, Hand Tool Attachment, Collapsible Handle, Portable Carpet Cleaner, Spot Carpet Cleaner, and Cord

Pros

  • Twice as much suction power.
  • Cleans deep within fabrics.
  • Easy to carry around.
  • Lightweight.
  • Two separate removable tanks.

Cons

  • Leaves a small puddle of dirty water under the machine.

07. BISSELL SpotClean Portable Spot and Stain Carpet Cleaner [Ideal Vacuum Within a Modest Price] 

Who likes stains? Nobody! Yet it’s so annoying to try to remove them. Most good spot cleaners cost hundreds of dollars. Does that mean you don’t get to make your couch brand new again? No! I have found Bissell SpotClean to be the best budget vacuum for anyone who wants to keep their household pristine. 

When you have a gadget like this that uses ProHeat technology, the cleaning task becomes a piece of cake. 

It has a heatwave technology that uses hot water to deep clean even the most stubborn stains. 

Even if you are cleaning for a while, the water temperature remains the same throughout the entire session. 

This cleaner comes with both a deep stain tool and a tough stain tool that can easily pick out any embedded stains. This one applies to any surface. 

Don’t worry about the kind of spot because Bissell Proheat doesn’t shy away from any challenge.

Next comes cleaning the machine itself. The self-cleaning hose tool clears out all the clogged gunk inside your hose without you making your hands dirty. The water tanks are easy to remove and so vacating them shouldn’t be a problem.

The best part is that it does not bombard you with a lot of instructions. It’s pretty simple to use and assemble. 

The only downside is that it works only with Bissell cleaning solutions. But, since these are readily available, that should not be much of a problem.

Product Specifications:

  • Dimensions: 6.5 x 12 x 14.5 inches
  • Weight: 11.9 lbs
  • Manufacturer: BISSELL 
  • Surface Recommendation: Upholstery, Carpet
  • Unit Count: 1 Count

Pros

  • Permanently removes tough stains.
  • A Portable and compact design make it easy to clean and refill.
  • Has heatwave technology to adjust the water temperature.
  • Longer cord for more reachability.
  • Quality brushes to ensure deep cleaning.
  • Easy to assemble.
  • Wallet-friendly.

Cons

  • Need to clean the flex hose as it may get clogged with dirty water after each use.
  • Works only with Bissell branded solutions.

08. Hoover Onepwr Spotless Go (Best for Busy Households)

Do you have kids? Then you know how stains are an everyday thing for us. There is no such thing as a spotless home if you have kids or pets. They will make a mess, and there’s nothing you can do to prevent that.

What you can do is find ways to make cleaning easier. The Hoover Onepwr Spotless Go does precisely that with its compact, lightweight construction. This carpet cleaner takes the worry away from spills, accidents, and messes. So your carpet might get stained, but it won’t stay stained for long. 

All you have to do is grab the Onepwr Spotless and state cleaning. The fact that it’s cordless and compact makes things so much easier too! It can tackle any spots on your carpet, stairs, or upholstery without any hassle. 

The device comes with a strong suction that removes all the dirt and lifts tough stains with ease. This one works particularly well on muddy paw prints or food residue stains. 

One thing I like about this unit is how easy it is to store. You can keep it in tiny spaces as it takes as much space as a coffee maker. I like keeping this cleaner in a cupboard near my living room for unexpected spills. So my house stays immaculate all the time. 

If you are familiar with the Onepwr line by Hoover, you know how many gadgets it has. The great thing is that this carpet cleaner comes with the same battery compatible with all Onepwr products. So it provides a lot of versatility and ease, mainly when you use other gadgets from the line.

Product Details:

  • Brand: Hoover
  • Special Feature: Cordless
  • Color: White
  • Model Name: ONEPWR Spotless GO Cordless
  • Item Weight: 7 pounds
  • Product Dimensions: 13 x 10 x 15 inches
  • Warranty: 2 years

Pros

  • Great for households with pets and kids.
  • Great for cleaning quick spills, dog messes, food residue, wine stains from carpets and couch.
  • Very versatile for cars, cushions, mattresses, or any spaces that need quick spot cleaning.
  • Lightweight and compact design.
  • The battery lasts quite a long time.

Cons

  • You will need to refill the water tank as it’s not very large. But this helps to keep it lightweight.

09. BLACK+DECKER Spillbuster (Best for Stains and Spills)

Just like the name suggests, Black+Decker Spillbuster will get rid of all the spots and stains from your carpets with minimal effort. Who wants to move around a massive carpet cleaner for a dime-size stain? That’s why having a compact and portable gadget like this saves a lot of time and pressure. 

But how does this small cleaner remove all the tough stains anyway? Well, for starters, it comes with a powered scrub brush that will lift off stains from a range of surfaces like carpets, rugs, upholstery, etc. 

This machine will clean your living room with three simple steps. First, it picks up any small chunks of food or residue from the floor. Then it sprays down with water and any learning solution you might add. 

After that, it will start scrubbing and repeat the cycle. So by the time you are done cleaning, the spot will be dry and fresh, like there was no stain to begin with!

But what about cleaning the machine itself? It comes with collection bowls that are dishwasher safe. Even the front nozzle is dishwasher safe. So you won’t have to worry about maintenance that much.

Product Details:

  • Brand: BLACK+DECKER
  • Color: Blue
  • Surface Recommendation: Upholstery, Carpet
  • Model Name: BHSB320JP
  • Product Dimensions: 19 x 8 x 9 inches
  • Item Weight: 5.4 pounds
  • Warranty Description: 2-year limited warranty
  • Batteries Required?: Yes

Pros

  • Easy to use on multiple surfaces.
  • Strong suction power.
  • Great for removing food stains from carpets and rugs.
  • You can use any machine concentrate/solution with this device.
  • Light and portable to carry around.
  • Good for pet owners.

Cons

  • Not strong enough for deep cleaning large carpets. This one is more ideal for small messes.

10. AutoRight C900054.M Wagner Spraytech SteamMachine (Best for Vehicles)

Yes, this is a car steam cleaner, but I find it a handy tool for cleaning anything at your home. 

Think about it. Car cleaners are made to be very powerful yet delicate, something we all want our carpet cleaners to do. And it’s multi-functional! 

So you will be able to clean your home and vehicle with one gadget! I find this rather practical. Why own three different tools when one can do it all?

The AutoRight Wagner is a steam cleaner that uses pressurized 290°F high-temperature steam to remove dirt, stain, grease, grime, and even disinfect the surface. 

This one is not only ideal for your carpets but on any surface. It only uses steam to clean, so you don’t have to worry about using the wrong chemical for the wrong surface. It’s very versatile!

You can use this steam cleaner to clean leather, upholstery, carpets, dashboards on your vehicle, and even windows. 

The built-in carrying handle design is handy for transportation. So you can take it anywhere with you. I find this feature very useful, especially when you have to clean a small area. Nobody wants to drag a massive vacuum around when you can use something like AutoRight SteamMachine. 

It comes with 11 different accessories, which include bushes, nozzles, and attachments. All of those things help to remove any stains or spots from anywhere without using chemicals at all. 

Just because something is portable doesn’t mean it’s weak in power. This handy little machine comes with a 40-ounce boiler tank and 1500 watt heating elements. All this will give you more than 45 minutes of continuous steam and an uninterrupted cleaning experience.

Product Details:

  • Package Dimensions: 17.1 x 12.5 x 10.6 inches
  • Item Weight: 9.75 pounds
  • Manufacturer: AutoRight
  • Volume: 40 fluid ounces
  • Scent: Clear
  • Assembly Required: No
  • Warranty Description: 2-years limited
  • Batteries Required: No
  • Included Components: Multi-Purpose Steam Cleaner

Pros

  • Builds steam power very quickly.
  • Lightweight and has a flexible hose. So you can get inside a lot of tricky places.
  • Comes with a range of accessories.
  • Easy to clean and maintain.
  • You can use this on multiple surfaces, including vehicles. Great for cleaning inside the car.
  • Great for leather seats as it has a soft microfiber attachment.

Cons

  • It can tend to get a bit hot after prolonged use.

Buying Guide: 5 Features to Look Out for

With all the different brands and features of cleaners, it can get confusing as to which one to choose. So, along with our best portable carpet cleaners reviews, we have listed down a few general guidelines to follow before making your purchase.

Suction Power:

We love those little puddles of water on the road, to play in! 

On carpets? It’s just going to ruin the integrity of it. 

Therefore, it is of utmost importance to get a portable cleaner with high suction power. It removes maximum water from the carpet after cleaning, ensuring there’s no mildew built upon it.

All of the vacuums mentioned above have the best possible suction. Nevertheless, the Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner stands out as having the ideal power to take out the dirt fruitfully. 

Tank Capacity:

It’s a common misconception that the bigger the tank, the better it is. A bigger tank might be good for extended cleaning sessions. Still, they come with the inconvenience of extra weight, making them hard to move. 

On the other hand, portable cleaners are famous for their maneuverability but small tank capacity. That is not a fault since they are made for small cleanups.

Suppose you want portability along with a large tank capacity. In that case, the best one to go for is Bissell SpotClean Professional Portable Carpet Cleaner – Corded. It has the potential to pick up up to ¾ gallons of dirt, making it the best for vast pileups of gunk!

Weight:

Do you know how anchors stop the ship? A similar concept applies to carpet cleaners.The heavier, the cleaner, the more it will sink into your carpets. This one is bad news for luxury carpets.

The solution?

For plush carpeted homes, choose a carpet cleaner that has a long hose, restricting its need for movement. You could also go for the ones that feel lightweight in your hand. 

Also, since we’re going for portable cleaners, we might look for the lighter ones to make them the ultimate cleaner to move around.

Length of Cord and Hose:

The longer these are, the easier it is to clean your carpet. It is because you can reach most of the area without moving the machine too much.

This, however, is not a problem for lightweight, portable cleaners. Since you can move those comfortably, a short cord and hose for those are fine.

Pet Capabilities:

For any pet owner, it is essential to look for cleaners that can remove pet stains from litter, vomit, etc. Most fur baby parents look for portable carpet cleaners over vacuums because they are much better at removing targeted stains.

If you’re one such person, then make sure to look for cleaners that have the word “pet” on their label. Chances are those are tailored for pets. Bissell ProHeat 2X is the best pet stain remover I have tried. 

Performance Rating Table

I have gathered my ratings for all the portable carpet cleaners in one compact table. This will help you to find your best match. 

Carpet CleanerCleaning PowerLongevityPortabilityPet-Friendly
Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner9.99.99.99.0
Bissell Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner9.99.8105.5
Bissell ProHeat 2X9.89.79.89.9
NaceCare GVE370 George 2 Stage Carpet Spotter9.79.79.79.7
BISSELL Little Green ProHeat Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner9.69.59.55.6
Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner Vacuum9.59.59.59.5
BISSELL SpotClean Portable Spot and Stain Carpet Cleaner 9.79.49.59.4
Hoover Onepwr Spotless Go9.19.39.89.7
BLACK+DECKER spillbuster9.19.19.79.2
AutoRight C900054.M Wagner Spraytech SteamMachine 9.49.49.19.5
Hoover PowerDash Go9.49.09.69.4
BISSELL Pet Stain Eraser Cordless Portable Carpet Cleaner9.29.09.79.4

Why a Portable Carpet Cleaner?

A vacuum cleaner is excellent for taking out all the dirt from every corner of your house. But does it work well on tough-to-remove stains?

We bet not! 

That is where the best portable carpet cleaners come in handy. They target specific areas to clean out the stubborn stains. 

Moreover, it removes all the dirt and spots on the entire carpet and upholstery with ease. 

Portable means they are usually light and can be easily moved around. It gives it an edge over traditional vacuum cleaners. 

Why?

Stains don’t occur in the entire house but smaller areas. To drag around a bulky cleaner all the way to clean up small spots does not sound too practical, does it? That is why portable cleaners are the best for this job. 

They not only clean the area, but they also get rid of the stains for good! 

Know the Different Carpet Cleaning Methods

Yes, there’s more than one. Before choosing one type, it’s essential to know and understand how each of them works. 

Wet Cleaning:

No brownie points for what this means. It’s the traditional method: use some soap and water to clean up all the grime from the carpets.

This method is also done with hot water, which is known as hot water extraction. It’s the same thing. The only difference is using hot water instead of cold and picking up more bacteria than usual! 

Dry Cleaning:

Opposite to wet cleaning, dry cleaning does not involve the use of water. This process is mainly done by professionals, making your carpet ready to use right after a wash. However, there are ways of doing this at home as well. 

Nothing better than stepping on the freshly washed and warm carpet! 

Encapsulation/ Bonnet Cleaning:

This process refers to spraying an encapsulating agent onto the carpet and using a brush to clear it out. The agents surround the dust particles, turning them into powder.

Next, this powder is removed by regular vacuuming. 

An easy explanation for a rather complicated term, isn’t it?

One drawback of this method is that it cleans the top of the carpet. As a result, it does not take long for the dust to accumulate again.

Encapsulation is mainly used in hotels to clean carpets at a faster rate and dry them quicker.

Top Asked Questions from Confused Users

01. Is a Cleaning Agent Always Necessary?

This answer depends on you, mostly. If you want to bathe your carpet with just water, that’s great for removing the stains on the surface. 

Additionally, it can make your carpet last longer.

However, we would recommend using a cleaning agent. The reasons are listed below:

  • It deep cleans your carpet. 
  • Takes out the age-old spots along with new ones. 
  • Leaves behind a fresh-smelling home. 

Precautions when using a cleaning agent:

  • Remember to not go overboard with the chemical solution.
  • Always run a test on a small area of the surface you want to clean. 

02. How Often Should I Clean My Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner?

The frequency of using the carpet cleaner will determine the number of times you need to clean it. If you’re using it heavily daily, it’s best to give it a rinse often. 

Many portable carpet cleaners have a self-cleaning feature. Consequently, you don’t have to put much thought into how to clean it.

However, the self-cleaning feature is mainly for the hose. Hence, it is recommended to clean the other parts of the cleaner, especially if it is going through heavy work. 

Note: Soap and water are enough to clean the rest of the cleaner carefully.

03. What Should I Do in the Case of Over-Shampooing?

You’re not the only one!

Over-shampooing is a common mistake while cleaning carpets. The main problem with this is that it can leave deeper stains on your carpet. 

But not to worry because it has a solution. First, soak up as much shampoo as you can with a cloth. Next, let it rest for about 5 to 10 minutes. Finally, you run a dry cycle and leave it to completely dry. 

Pro tip: Spread the excess shampoo over the area instead of letting it sit on on spot. 

Before You Leave

Stains and cleaning are the two most dreaded words for any household. But, you have to do what you have to do.

To make these two less dreadful, it’s better to have the best portable carpet cleaner in the market that meets your needs. 

Are you still going to drag around that bulky vacuum cleaner? 

Let us know which one intrigued you the most from our best portable carpet cleaner reviews!

OUR #1 RECOMMENDATION

Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet

Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner

We all want a carpet cleaner that can do it all. While it might not be possible to get every feature in one gadget, Hoover Spotless Portable is the closest to doing that! 

It can remove pet stains, clean years of buildup from your upholstery, and make grimy and dirty carpets brand new again. The best thing? It’s not overly pricey at all! You get the latest features at a great value. And it will serve you for years!

Leave a Comment