Best Carpet Cleaner • Reviews & Buying Guide
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Best Carpet Cleaner • Reviews & Buying Guide (September 2024)

Updated: August 22, 2024

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner

After 45 hours spent researching the best carpet cleaners, we think Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner is the best for most people.

This choice is based on several criteria: dimensions, type, cord length, hose length, tank capacity, color, cleaning path, power rating, brush system, accessories, tank type, maneuverability, heater, weight, and warranty, among other things.

 ProductPriceOverall RatingQualityEase of UseManeuverabilityMaintenanceValue for Moneydimensionstypecord lengthhose lengthtank capacitycolorcleaning pathpower ratingbrush systemaccessoriestank typemaneuverabilityheaterweightwarranty
Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet CleanerBissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet CleanerCheck Price4.95.05.05.04.55.020.5 x 11 x 42.25 inCorded25 feet9 feet1.75 galGreen10.5 in12 ampsRotatingNot specifiedDual tank2 wheelsNo52.5 lbs5 years
Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet CleanerHoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet CleanerCheck Price4.44.54.05.04.04.520.8 x 13.9 x 22.2 inCorded20 feet8 feet1 galRed11.25 in10 ampsSpinbrush7-pieceDual tank2 wheelsYes18.1 lbs2 years
Bissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet CleanerBissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet CleanerCheck Price4.24.54.04.04.54.019 x 11 x 44 inCorded20 feetNone0.75 galPurple11 in6.25 ampsRotatingNot specified2-in-1 tank2 wheelsNo16.4 lbs1 year
Bissell 1986 ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet CleanerBissell 1986 ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet CleanerCheck Price4.65.04.54.04.55.015 x 12.5 x 43.5 inCorded25 feet8 feet1 galBlack11 in6.8 amps12-row dual powerbrush11-pieceDual tank2 wheelsNo17.5 lbs5 years
Hoover FH50251 Power Scrub Elite Pet Carpet CleanerHoover FH50251 Power Scrub Elite Pet Carpet CleanerCheck Price4.55.04.54.54.04.517.5 x 12.3 x 43 inCorded20 feet8 feet1.25 galRed12 in10 ampsSpinbrush12-pieceDual tank2 wheelsYes18.5 lbs2 years
Best Carpet Cleaner

Is the best carpet cleaner a solid option when you’re trying to keep your carpets in top shape? We all know that carpets are not the easiest to clean, especially if you have pets and family members that make it difficult.

Are you at a point where you want to stop spending money on whole house carpet cleaning?

Carpeted floors look great in any home, but they aren’t necessarily the easiest to keep clean. Even if you have a high quality vacuum cleaner, it doesn’t get all of the stains and what may be underneath the surface. What are you supposed to do then?

Kids, adults, and pets alike cause stains and smells that your standard steam mop won’t be able to take care of. You need something more heavy duty to deal with the heavy duty problems that may arise.

Some people will rent the best carpet cleaner machine from their local grocery store for those times where they need to do an in home carpet cleaning, but what about those times where you really need to deal with a stain right now?

You deserve to be able to take care of furniture and carpet cleaning whenever you wish, so it may be time to invest in the best carpet cleaner for your money. It will make furniture and carpet cleaning simple and fast.

Having the best carpet cleaner for stains is a priority, and, as with any big ticket item, you want to be sure to consider as many details as possible when making that decision.

Selection Of The Best Carpet Cleaners

Here are the best carpet cleaners for most people according to Outlinist:

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner
(rated 4.9 / 5)
Quality
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Maintenance
Value for Money
Check Price

People with pets know that housebreaking them isn’t always easy and even when housebroken, accidents always happen. That’s why having the best carpet cleaner for pet stains is almost required.

The big question is, which is the best carpet cleaner for pets?

Nowadays, there are many affordable options for owning one of the best carpet cleaning machines rather than going through the hassle and expense of renting a machine.

For pet owners and really anyone with wall-to-wall carpeting, having your own machine to deep-clean rugs makes good sense.

Below is a closer look at one Bissell carpet cleaning machine that is well worth considering.

Information

Not only can it handle your carpet stains for you, but it’s also versatile enough to clean upholstery and carpeted stairs.

The Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner is a portable commercial carpet cleaner that has the strength and versatility to handle even the nastiest stains. Its heavy-duty build and ability to get deep down into your carpet to lift up stains puts this machine at the top of the list of best carpet cleaners for pet urine.

While many might think it’s more cost effective to rent a cleaner, this machine has actually been shown to out-clean the leading rental machines, and because it’s not extremely expensive, it’s a good investment.

The Big Green machine includes an extra-large DirtLifter PowerBrush, and its powerful suction gives you the most dirt lifting power you’ll find at a reasonable price.

dimensions20.5 x 11 x 42.25 in
typeCorded
cord length25 feet
hose length9 feet
tank capacity1.75 gal
colorGreen
cleaning path10.5 in
power rating12 amps
brush systemRotating
accessoriesNot specified
tank typeDual tank
maneuverability2 wheels
heaterNo
weight52.5 lbs
warranty5 years

Not only can it handle your carpet stains for you, but it’s also versatile enough to clean upholstery and carpeted stairs. Because of its versatility, you can clean nearly every inch of your home quickly and easily.

The machine cleans on both the forward and backwards pass, which allows you to clean your carpet deeply without having to go over specific spots over and over again. This also allows the pile to dry faster, lowering your overall cleaning time.

It also comes with all of the extra pieces you need, including a 6-inch tool for cleaning spots, a 25-foot power cord so you don’t have to struggle to find an outlet, and a 9-foot hose to get you to the most hard to reach places.

Pros

Unlike other machines, this one cleans both when you push it and pull it, providing you with extra cleaning power.

The first time you use the Bissell Big Green, you’ll understand why more and more people are choosing to purchase it instead of renting an inferior model. Here are some of the great features that this powerful cleaning machine gives you.

  • Huge PowerBrush covers a lot of ground: When you clean your carpet, you want to be able to cover as much space as quickly as you can. This PowerBrush is so large that you’ll find yourself tackling entire rooms in a matter of minutes. Such a large size lowers your cleaning time significantly.
  • Incredibly powerful suction: This cleaner might provide the strongest dirt-lifting power on the market. Never again will you have to struggle to get that deep down clean that you and your family deserve. No matter the stain, this machine has the suction to clean it up.
  • Cleans as you push and pull: Unlike other machines, this one cleans both when you push it and pull it, providing you with extra cleaning power. By cleaning on both the forward and backward pass, it keeps you from having to go over certain spots repeatedly.
  • Commercial power for your home: The power rating on this cleaner is 12 Amps, which is comparable to some of the higher end commercial cleaners. There are few, if any, home carpet cleaners that will give you this level of power. With this much power, you’ll be cleaning like a pro in no time.
  • All the accessories you need: A cleaner is only as good as its attachments, and this one includes a 6-inch spot cleaning tool and a 9-foot long hose. With a power cord that measures 25 feet in length, you’ll have all the tools and slack you need to reach even the most difficult spots in your home.
  • 5 year limited warranty: If you’re going to spend the money and invest in a cleaner of this quality, you want to make sure that your investment is protected. This unit comes with a generous 5 year limited warranty, so you know that you’re covered for quite some time.

Cons

The Big Green cleaner isn’t perfect, of course. Like all products, it has its issues. Before you go out and buy one, consider these cons and compare them with the cons of other models. Knowing the cons before you buy is essential to being happy with your purchase.

  • Unit is very heavy: At over fifty pounds, there are definitely other carpet cleaning machines out there that won’t cause you nearly as much strain. It is heavy, but the weight is necessary to get deep into heavier carpets. If you can handle the weight, you’ll be fine, but it’s something to keep in mind.
  • Machine is rather loud: This shouldn’t come as much of a surprise, but you shouldn’t expect to be able to watch TV while you clean with this unit. It is quite noisy, and while this is normal for a machine like this, it is a bit louder than some other machines on the market.
  • Brush is known to leave streaks: While using this cleaner, you might notice unsightly brown streaks left by the brush. Simply going over the part of the carpet where the streaks were left will clean them up, but it can be a bit of a hassle to deal with.
 

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet CleanerBissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner

Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet CleanerHoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet CleanerBissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet Cleaner

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
dimensions20.5 x 11 x 42.25 in20.8 x 13.9 x 22.2 in19 x 11 x 44 in
typeCordedCordedCorded
cord length25 feet20 feet20 feet
hose length9 feet8 feetNone
tank capacity1.75 gal1 gal0.75 gal
colorGreenRedPurple
cleaning path10.5 in11.25 in11 in
power rating12 amps10 amps6.25 amps
brush systemRotatingSpinbrushRotating
accessoriesNot specified7-pieceNot specified
tank typeDual tankDual tank2-in-1 tank
maneuverability2 wheels2 wheels2 wheels
heaterNoYesNo
weight52.5 lbs18.1 lbs16.4 lbs
warranty5 years2 years1 year

Summary

Although the unit is rather heavy, and the occasional streaks left by the brushes can be annoying, it still gives you excellent cleaning power that can easily handle the worst pet stains.

When it comes to home carpet cleaners, the Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner provides you with commercial power to deep clean even thickly piled carpet. The parts give you extra versatility so that you can reach anywhere in your home easily, and cleaning upholstery has never been easier.

Although the unit is rather heavy, and the occasional streaks left by the brushes can be annoying, it still gives you excellent cleaning power that can easily handle the worst pet stains.

If you’re a fan of plush carpets and have it throughout your home, this Bissell model will keep them looking like new. And for pet owners, there are few other machines that will handle the stains like the Big Green machine.


Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner

Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner
(rated 4.4 / 5)
Quality
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Maintenance
Value for Money
Check Price

Deep Cleaning carpets and rugs helps lengthen their lives. The effect is immediate – you can see the difference as you clean.

This is not an everyday job, so the carpet cleaning machine must be easy to use and adaptable too.

Deep cleaning rugs and carpets is not just for people with pets. Dirt and dust gets tangled in the fibers and can get stuck there.

Deep cleaning adds water into the equation which helps in cleaning, but also needs to be removed to protect the carpet from mildew.

Carpet cleaners are not vacuum cleaners. They are all about tough cleaning.

Information

This unassuming looking machine is a regular and steady product putting all its talents into the cleaning, which is where it should be.

The Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner is a portable carpet cleaner designed for carpets but does a whole lot more. It weighs in at 19 pounds but the addition of plenty of handles makes it easy to carry around.

The water tank is a full gallon which gives it a range of about 100 square feet, approximately a 10 x 10-foot room. There is a 20-foot cord which is not the very longest, but works well enough. It helps not having to unplug and move around.

The spin scrubbing brushes are one of this Hoover carpet cleaner’s special features. This provides 360° rotational cleaning allowing the brushes to move carpet fibers and loosen grime.

dimensions20.8 x 13.9 x 22.2 in
typeCorded
cord length20 feet
hose length8 feet
tank capacity1 gal
colorRed
cleaning path11.25 in
power rating10 amps
brush systemSpinbrush
accessories7-piece
tank typeDual tank
maneuverability2 wheels
heaterYes
weight18.1 lbs
warranty2 years

With an 11 inch cleaning head, almost a foot wide, each pass gets wide cleaning and reduces the amount of physical work needed pushing the machine. A nice feature with this Hoover is a rinse option. Getting all the soap out is essential and being able to rinse is a nice extra touch.

Traditionally, floor cleaners do floors and carpet cleaners do carpets, but this machine gets carpet clean and then goes beyond and adds upholstery to its repertoire. It is as if Hoover recognized potential and took it.

This unassuming looking machine (it doesn’t come across as some sort of new-age technology, but rather something older and more familiar) is a regular and steady product putting all its talents into the cleaning, which is where it should be. It cleans well and it’s not as if you’re going on a date.

Pros

The cleaner’s ability to extract dirty water and add heat is helpful on a wood floor where you don’t want to leave damp spots.

The Hoover FH50150 is a workhorse cleaner. Not flashy just interested in getting carpets and upholstery properly cleaned. In addition to the above features here are some of the outstanding, and impressive, benefits of the Hoover power scrub deluxe carpet washer.

  • Extra strong water extraction capability dries carpets quickly: The cleaner has two separate water tanks, not one with a divider. One is for clean and the one for dirty water shows you exactly how much water was sucked right back up. With the Hoover Power Scrub, carpets are protected from long term damp.
  • Heated air function also helps in drying – especially upholstery: Wet chairs or sofas are not helpful to anyone. The heated air can be added at will to help dry things off. The Hoover has both water extraction and hot air which combine to create efficient drying for carpets too.
  • No concern about how much soap to use: The FH50150 has an automatic mixer which distributes the right amounts of detergent and water. You can be sure that you are not using too much and know that there is not going to be a soap residue left behind.
  • When you clean the cleaner it’s quick and remarkably easy: It’s true, you must clean the cleaner. But this one pulls apart easily so that individual parts can be cleaned and dried before the unit goes into storage. Drying prevents rust and the less rust the longer the machine lasts.
  • Comes with a range of different cleaning accessories: The FH50150 comes with a complete range of accessories. There is a hand held “SpinScrub” powered tool for tough stains, plus a stair tool, an upholstery tool and a crevice tool. A particularly nice touch is the accessory bag for storage.
  • Rug cleaning is as well covered as carpets are: Rugs sometimes have special needs, not least is that they are usually on hardwood floors. The cleaner’s ability to extract dirty water and add heat is helpful on a wood floor where you don’t want to leave damp spots.

Cons

With a product as solid as this one, there have to be some downsides, don’t there? Well there are some negative reviews out there, the question is do they matter to you? Here are some of the not so positive features of the Hoover Power Scrub Deluxe model.

  • There isn’t a specific brush to deal with carpet edges: It would be nice if there was a tool to deal with baseboards and edges. There isn’t. You can use the other tools, the stair one for example, but it would have been nice to have one on the machine.
  • Possible water tank leakage: This problem seems to occur very infrequently, but is worth keeping an eye out for. The Hoover FH50150 comes with a two year warranty which should cover the tank if the problem occurs.
  • If there is internal rust the brushes can stop spinning: It is important to ensure that the unit is properly dry before being put into storage. Preventing rust in the mechanism obviously makes sense generally, but it is especially important with regards to the brushes. They must be spinning properly.
 

Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet CleanerHoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet CleanerBissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet CleanerBissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet Cleaner

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
dimensions20.8 x 13.9 x 22.2 in20.5 x 11 x 42.25 in19 x 11 x 44 in
typeCordedCordedCorded
cord length20 feet25 feet20 feet
hose length8 feet9 feetNone
tank capacity1 gal1.75 gal0.75 gal
colorRedGreenPurple
cleaning path11.25 in10.5 in11 in
power rating10 amps12 amps6.25 amps
brush systemSpinbrushRotatingRotating
accessories7-pieceNot specifiedNot specified
tank typeDual tankDual tank2-in-1 tank
maneuverability2 wheels2 wheels2 wheels
heaterYesNoNo
weight18.1 lbs52.5 lbs16.4 lbs
warranty2 years5 years1 year

Summary

This cleaner more than does the job on cleaning carpets. You’ll see the difference immediately after the first pass.

Cleaning carpets is a dirty job and the Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner is really up for the task. This cleaner might be the best carpet cleaner solution because of its combination of water extraction plus heat to leave carpets and upholstery as dry as possible.

The unit is not too heavy, but its four handles move the center of gravity to make it easy to take up and down stairs and move around generally, even carrying a full water payload. Two separate water tanks keep clean and dirty water apart, which is appealing.

This cleaner more than does the job on cleaning carpets. You’ll see the difference immediately after the first pass. With an 11 inch head its cleaning power is big, but your work power is minimized.


Bissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet Cleaner
(rated 4.2 / 5)
Quality
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Maintenance
Value for Money
Check Price

Here’s the bad news; carpet fibers hold dirt and grime. Sometimes you need the extra power of a carpet shampooer. A carpet cleaner picks up where vacuums leave off.

A carpet cleaner machine cleans deep into carpets and rugs leaving them looking like new and extending their lifespan.

A full house carpet cleaner needs to be something you can move around easily. It shouldn’t take too much effort, and yet leaves you with the satisfying feeling of a job done properly.

Bissell has earned their good reputation for producing cleaners which are top of the range.

This cleaner comes from a stable which should prove its pedigree.

Information

Bissell has included their brush technology in the 1622 Power Lifter model which they use in other, more expensive cleaners, so the cleaning power is not limited by either the motor or the cleaning technology.

The Bissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet Cleaner comes with many of the features that consumers look for in a furniture and carpet cleaner. It looks a little like it came from the 1990s in that the design is not exactly new, but it packs in great cleaning power for a mid-range cleaner.

The water tank holds three-quarters of a gallon which equates to about 75 square feet of cleaning before it is necessary to do a refill.

The mid-weight unit comes in at 21 pounds without water, and 23 pounds fully loaded. The weight reflects the cleaning power. This whole house carpet cleaner is designed to do a thorough house-wide clean, not just perform as a spot cleaner.

dimensions19 x 11 x 44 in
typeCorded
cord length20 feet
hose lengthNone
tank capacity0.75 gal
colorPurple
cleaning path11 in
power rating6.25 amps
brush systemRotating
accessoriesNot specified
tank type2-in-1 tank
maneuverability2 wheels
heaterNo
weight16.4 lbs
warranty1 year

A lint screen prevents the unit ingesting that “how does it happen and it gets everywhere” stuff from clogging up the cleaner keeping it running longer. In fact, the manufacturer allows you to extend the warranty for an additional year for an extra $5 which suggests a high confidence in the machine.

Bissell has included their brush technology in the 1622 Power Lifter model which they use in other, more expensive cleaners, so the cleaning power is not limited by either the motor or the cleaning technology.

The Power Lifter is a carpet and rug cleaner. It does not come with a pile of extras, but it performs its core function very well for the mid-level market in which it sits. In terms of value for the money, it is an excellent single-function machine which delivers on its promises.

Pros

The Bissell head is nearly one foot wide for a broad cleaning swath with each pass, and the 20-foot power cord extends the reach of the unit to a full room.

People buy products based on their features and benefits. Here’s a quick look at some specifics which make this Bissell Power Lifter worth putting on the list of possible cleaners.

  • 4 rows of dirt lifting brushes clean deep into carpets: Bigger, more expensive machines might have more, but before and after photos show that this cleaner does a really good job with just four. It is the same technology as bigger Bissell units and so does a good job.
  • Water extraction capability means dryer carpets much faster: Carpets and rugs should not be allowed to stay wet any longer than is exactly necessary. Sucking the water back out of the fibers leaves them damp rather than being actually wet. It is better for the carpets and users.
  • Never get too much detergent; use the built-in measuring cup: You want to avoid leaving soap residue on carpet or rug fibers and so it is important to get the balance between water and carpet shampoo right. The built-in measuring cup means you get exactly the right volume every time.
  • Fill the tank with hot water to help cleaning power: This is a nice option because heat helps clean deeply. Beware though, heat can exacerbate odors and so if you’re dealing with pet accidents better to go with lukewarm rather than very hot water. Having the choice is a great option.
  • A full width 11″ cleaning head for cleaning large areas: The Bissell head is nearly one foot wide for a broad cleaning swath with each pass, and the 20-foot power cord extends the reach of the unit to a full room. Cleaning the carpet should be efficient not hard work.
  • Bissell produces and includes a long-lasting detergent which contains ScotchGuard: Clean and protect at the same time by adding detergent which contains ScotchGuard to protect the carpet between deep cleans. ScotchGuard protects the carpet fibers by making them resist dirt, helping the vacuum pick up more than it normally would.

Cons

As with every product in every market segment, there are always a few negatives. For this Bissell 1622 model, the positive reviews outnumber negative ones 3:1, so are overwhelmingly positive. Perhaps the following issues will make the difference to your buying choices.

  • Does not come with any tools or accessories: It is a carpet and rug cleaner and does that job well. This might mean it is not the best carpet cleaner for stairs as you need to hold the 11″ head steady and it is broader than a step.
  • Bissell is adamant that only a Bissell detergent be used: Two small trial sized bottles come with the product, one regular and the other with ScotchGuard. Getting replacements is not difficult, and it is hardly a deal breaker, but buyers need to be aware they are limited to Bissell brand.
  • Belt may get over heated: A few users reported that the belt got too hot too quickly, but the vast majority of users, as well as professional critics, do not suggest that this is a problem. Nonetheless, it’s worth being aware of, particularly while the machine is under warranty.
 

Bissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet CleanerBissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet CleanerBissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner

Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet CleanerHoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
dimensions19 x 11 x 44 in20.5 x 11 x 42.25 in20.8 x 13.9 x 22.2 in
typeCordedCordedCorded
cord length20 feet25 feet20 feet
hose lengthNone9 feet8 feet
tank capacity0.75 gal1.75 gal1 gal
colorPurpleGreenRed
cleaning path11 in10.5 in11.25 in
power rating6.25 amps12 amps10 amps
brush systemRotatingRotatingSpinbrush
accessoriesNot specifiedNot specified7-piece
tank type2-in-1 tankDual tankDual tank
maneuverability2 wheels2 wheels2 wheels
heaterNoNoYes
weight16.4 lbs52.5 lbs18.1 lbs
warranty1 year5 years2 years

Summary

The cleaner is intended to be used solely as a carpet cleaner so it doesn’t come with extra hoses or tools to work on upholstery.

The Bissell 1622 Power Lifter Brush Upright Carpet Cleaner is a mid-range machine which brings the cleaning power of the Bissell high-end cleaners to the party. Its carpet cleaning capabilities are impressive – check out the before and after pictures online to see for yourself. It is as easy to use and maneuver as a vacuum cleaner and at 24 lbs. fully loaded with water, can be used by pretty much any adult.

The cleaner is intended to be used solely as a carpet cleaner so it doesn’t come with extra hoses or tools to work on upholstery. But it still delivers great value within its market segment and its price range.

Add in the fact that you can use hot water to help get carpets clean, and you get one very effective cleaning machine.


Bissell 1986 ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 1986 ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner
(rated 4.6 / 5)
Quality
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Maintenance
Value for Money
Check Price

Carpet cleaning can be a hassle. While there are many affordable carpet cleaning products you can buy at the store, they won’t give you the deep clean of actual carpet cleaning machines.

Fortunately, there are many good machines designed for deep-cleaning carpets on the market now.

If you have pets that have left stains, cleaning your white carpet will likely require an actual shampooer instead of just your standard carpet cleaner products.

These machines can be rented, but if you need to clean your carpet regularly, it’s probably a good idea to invest in your own cleaning machine.

Let’s see how the Bissell 1986 carpet cleaner compares to the rest.

Information

The 2-in-1 pet upholstery tool allows you to perform either dry or wet cleaning on your carpets and furniture.

One of the best things about the Bissell 1986 ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner is that it’s extremely powerful for a carpet cleaning machine that’s portable. At only 20 pounds, you’ll be able to move this machine all around your home with ease.

The CleanShot Pretreater is a nifty little feature that allows you to target and clean even the toughest stains without any issues. Simply hit the switch with your foot, and the machine will shoot a stream of Pretreater to give you a deeper clean than you’d get with shampooing alone.

The 2-in-1 pet upholstery tool allows you to perform either dry or wet cleaning on your carpets and furniture. Rather than having to pull out your vacuum and run it before you clean the stains, you can pick up all the hair and dirt in dry mode, then switch to wet mode to remove the stain.

dimensions15 x 12.5 x 43.5 in
typeCorded
cord length25 feet
hose length8 feet
tank capacity1 gal
colorBlack
cleaning path11 in
power rating6.8 amps
brush system12-row dual powerbrush
accessories11-piece
tank typeDual tank
maneuverability2 wheels
heaterNo
weight17.5 lbs
warranty5 years

Whenever you clean your carpet, the amount of time it takes to dry is obviously a concern. Thankfully, you won’t be waiting long with this machine. After cleaning, wait about an hour and your carpet will be perfectly dry.

The Bissell 1986 also comes equipped with multiple types of cleaners, so no matter what sort of stain you’re messing with, you’ll have the right tools for the job.

The Heatwave Technology and the Dual DirtLifter Power Brushes work to pull up dirt and stains that were once embedded in your carpet, giving you that clean that you couldn’t get anywhere else.

Pros

The package includes a professional pet urine eliminator and an antibacterial carpet formula.

There’s plenty to like about the Bissell ProHeat machine. It has been shown to clean better than rental cleaners, and it comes with all of the features that you need in a home carpet cleaner. Here’s just a short list of all the great features this machine provides.

  • 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool: A lot of people want a machine like this to clean pet stains, and this is the perfect machine to do just that. You can perform dry vacuuming to pick up all of the pet hair in the area, then switch to wet cleaning in order to tackle stains and ground-in dirt.
  • CleanShot Pretreater: If you’ve ever tried to clean a carpet stain that just won’t budge, you’ll definitely appreciate the CleanShot Pretreater. Simply kick the switch with your foot, and you can pretreat the stain so that it’ll come up much easier than it would by deep cleaning alone.
  • Incredibly lightweight for its class: Other machines can weigh as much as 50 pounds, making them very difficult to maneuver. At only 20 pounds, this machine is very easy to push and pull. You’ll never have to struggle just to push this machine over your carpet. This is one of the easiest cleaners to use.
  • Dries more quickly than most cleaners: Generally, you’ll have to wait hours and hours for your carpet to dry after a cleaning. However, with this cleaner, you’ll notice that your carpet dries much faster. You’ll usually only have to wait about an hour or so for your freshly cleaned carpet to be dry again.
  • PowerBrushes with Heatwave Technology: Even the most advanced cleaners will struggle with dirt and stains that have been embedded in the carpet for some time. However, these PowerBrushes utilize Heatwave Technology that can break up and remove even the most hardened dirt. Getting that deep clean has never been easier.
  • Comes with all the cleaning fluids you need: The package includes a professional pet urine eliminator and an antibacterial carpet formula. You’ll obviously have to get refills eventually, but it is a nice bonus that some top of the line carpet cleaning products are included in the package.

Cons

This is one of the better cleaners on the market, but it certainly isn’t perfect. Be sure to weigh these cons against the positives before you decide to make your purchase. You’ll be happy you knew about the downsides beforehand.

  • Doesn’t hold much water: While the lightweight design is great, it also comes with its shortcomings. The water tanks don’t hold very much water, so if you’re looking to clean large areas of carpet, expect to refill them regularly. This is a bit of a hassle, but it’s the price you pay for such a light machine.
  • No edge cleaning: If you’re trying to clean your carpet along walls, you’re probably not going to be able to do it with this machine. There is no way to clean the tight edges of your carpet, unfortunately. This means you’ll probably have to be on your hands and knees to get those edges.
  • Difficult to take apart: You’re going to have to take it apart in order to clean it out from time to time, and that can be a bit of a hassle. There are many hard to reach areas that gather dirt, hair, and debris, making cleaning it out a chore.
 

Bissell 1986 ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet CleanerBissell 1986 ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet CleanerBissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner

Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet CleanerHoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
dimensions15 x 12.5 x 43.5 in20.5 x 11 x 42.25 in20.8 x 13.9 x 22.2 in
typeCordedCordedCorded
cord length25 feet25 feet20 feet
hose length8 feet9 feet8 feet
tank capacity1 gal1.75 gal1 gal
colorBlackGreenRed
cleaning path11 in10.5 in11.25 in
power rating6.8 amps12 amps10 amps
brush system12-row dual powerbrushRotatingSpinbrush
accessories11-pieceNot specified7-piece
tank typeDual tankDual tankDual tank
maneuverability2 wheels2 wheels2 wheels
heaterNoNoYes
weight17.5 lbs52.5 lbs18.1 lbs
warranty5 years5 years2 years

Summary

If you have a lot of deep pile carpeting and pets to get them dirty, there probably isn’t a better carpet cleaner on the market to handle the job.

If you’re looking for a cleaner that’s small, lightweight, but still provides you with commercial cleaning power in your home, then the Bissell 1986 ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Carpet Cleaner. Overall, it’s very easy to use, and the lightweight design makes everything easier.

The tradeoff, of course, is that you won’t get the capacity in the water tanks that you might get with some heavier cleaners, but if you only need to cover small areas, this shouldn’t be a problem at all.

If you have a lot of deep pile carpeting and pets to get them dirty, there probably isn’t a better carpet cleaner on the market to handle the job. This Bissell was designed to handle pet stains, and it does that splendidly.


Hoover FH50251 Power Scrub Elite Pet Carpet Cleaner

Hoover FH50251 Power Scrub Elite Pet Carpet Cleaner
(rated 4.5 / 5)
Quality
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Maintenance
Value for Money
Check Price

Do home carpet cleaners work? If you have dogs or cats, this is probably a question you’ve asked yourself at one point or another.

When it comes to in home carpet cleaning, there are a few products out there that can do the job right.

Hoover is a leading name in vacuum cleaners, but did you know that you can also get a Hoover rug shampooer?

If you want to shampoo your carpet regularly and get that deep-down clean, then you’ll probably want to invest in your own cleaner instead of renting one.

Take a look at this Hoover FH50251 carpet cleaning machine and see if it’s right for you.

Information

The clean and dirty water tanks are much larger than most, meaning that you should be able to handle your upholstery and carpet cleaning without having to refill or empty them, respectively.

The Hoover FH50251 Power Scrub Elite Pet Carpet Cleaner brings commercial carpet cleaning power into your home in a small, lightweight, and affordable package. It has a number of different settings which allow you to customize it to your home and your carpet.

Unlike other carpet cleaners, this one comes with a Quick Clean Mode, which allows you to clean the surface of your carpet quickly and easily, and your carpet will be dry again in about 45 minutes. If you just want to clean a spot quickly, this makes it easy to do.

Because it weighs less than 20 pounds and is no bigger than your typical vacuum cleaner, this unit is easy to move and store when you’re not using it. Being able to easily push and pull it around your home makes cleaning simple. Full house cleaning has never taken less effort.

dimensions17.5 x 12.3 x 43 in
typeCorded
cord length20 feet
hose length8 feet
tank capacity1.25 gal
colorRed
cleaning path12 in
power rating10 amps
brush systemSpinbrush
accessories12-piece
tank typeDual tank
maneuverability2 wheels
heaterYes
weight18.5 lbs
warranty2 years

The clean and dirty water tanks are much larger than most, meaning that you should be able to handle your upholstery and carpet cleaning without having to refill or empty them, respectively.

Cleaning up after pets is the name of the game, and the 2-in-1 Antimicrobial Pet Tool makes this possibly the best Hoover carpet cleaner on the market. Designed specifically to handle pet stains, this is a must-have for any pet owner.

The included cleaning solution is also one of the most powerful on the market, lifting and removing embedded dirt and stains from your carpet and upholstery quite easily.

Pros

With the automatic detergent mixing feature, you’ll know that you always have the perfect amount of detergent and water for any job.

When it comes to features, it’s difficult to know exactly where to start with the Hoover RH50251. There is so much included in this small package that it can be difficult to mention every positive. Here’s a short list of some features you’ll love.

  • Lighter than a rental machine: If you’ve ever rented a carpet shampooer, you know they can be heavy, clunky, and difficult to move around. Thankfully, this unit weighs about 18 pounds, making it possible for a child to move it across the floor with ease. No more struggling with heavy machines.
  • As powerful as a commercial cleaner: Ease of use is great, but when you need to get out the nastiest pet stains, you need something with power. In spite of its small, lightweight design, this machine comes with all the cleaning power that you would find in an expensive commercial unit.
  • Large capacity water tanks: Other home carpet cleaners of this size and weight often don’t give you enough room in the clean and dirty water tanks to cover an entire home without emptying and refilling them. These tanks are huge, allowing you to clean most homes without changing the tanks.
  • Quick Clean Mode: You just caught your pet making a mess on the carpet, but you don’t want to clean the entire carpet and wait for it to dry to get a single stain. Well, you’re in luck, because Quick Clean Mode can handle that stain, and it’ll only take about 45 minutes to dry.
  • 2-in-1 Antimicrobial Pet Tool: This thing was designed for use on pet stains, and the 2-in-1 Antimicrobial Pet Tool makes things even easier. The rubber nub is absolutely perfect for stain removal, while the bristle insert gives you all the extra scrubbing power you need. Designed by pet owners for pet owners.
  • Detergent mixing made easy: With the automatic detergent mixing feature, you’ll know that you always have the perfect amount of detergent and water for any job. Never again will you have to struggle with precise measurements in order to get the perfect cleaning combination. Hoover has excelled at making an easy to use cleaner.

Cons

Like all products, this one also has its issues, and you’ll want to make note of them before you decide to spend your hard-earned money. Here are some of the problems that you might have when using this machine.

  • Water tanks add to weight: This is a very lightweight unit, but the way that the water tanks are positioned makes it much more difficult to push than it ought to be. While most children still won’t have trouble, keep in mind that it seems heavier when in use than it actually is.
  • Sensitive float in dirty water tank: There’s a float in the dirty water tank that’s designed to stop suction when it’s full. Unfortunately, this float is extremely sensitive, and simply bumping into something could trigger the unit to shut off. You might have to fiddle with it to get it sucking again.
  • Doesn’t work on hard floors: Some home carpet cleaning machines can also be used on hard floors as an alternative to mopping. Unfortunately, this unit can’t. So, if you’re looking for a machine that will allow you to easily transition from carpet to hard floors, this isn’t the product for you.
 

Hoover FH50251 Power Scrub Elite Pet Carpet CleanerHoover FH50251 Power Scrub Elite Pet Carpet Cleaner

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet CleanerBissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner

Hoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet CleanerHoover FH50150 Power Scrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
dimensions17.5 x 12.3 x 43 in20.5 x 11 x 42.25 in20.8 x 13.9 x 22.2 in
typeCordedCordedCorded
cord length20 feet25 feet20 feet
hose length8 feet9 feet8 feet
tank capacity1.25 gal1.75 gal1 gal
colorRedGreenRed
cleaning path12 in10.5 in11.25 in
power rating10 amps12 amps10 amps
brush systemSpinbrushRotatingSpinbrush
accessories12-pieceNot specified7-piece
tank typeDual tankDual tankDual tank
maneuverability2 wheels2 wheels2 wheels
heaterYesNoYes
weight18.5 lbs52.5 lbs18.1 lbs
warranty2 years5 years2 years

Summary

The Antimicrobial Pet Tool is probably the biggest selling point, providing you with everything you need to quickly lift up pet stains.

Most people’s experiences with the Hoover FH50251 Power Scrub Elite Pet Carpet Cleaner are likely to be positive ones. It is lightweight making it easy to push and store, but the placement of the water tanks does make it a little heavier when you’re actually using it.

The Antimicrobial Pet Tool is probably the biggest selling point, providing you with everything you need to quickly lift up pet stains. The Quick Clean Mode is also a plus, allowing you to clean small patches of carpet in no time.

If you’re looking for something to lift pet stains from your upholstery and carpet, then this will definitely do the trick. Keep in mind, though, the Hoover FH50251 is a carpet cleaner – not a machine to clean bare floors.

Buying Guide

Style of Carpet Cleaner

There are as many varieties of carpet cleaners as there are people that want to use them. Do you want the best foam carpet cleaner or do you want a shampooer? Are you looking for an upright or do you want something adjustable?

The type of use is also necessary to consider – home, commercial, and heavy duty use are all options. Professional and home options are available, and there are all sorts of add-ons and attachments you can find as well.

Size of the Cleaning Path

The cleaning path is the area that is at the end of the hose, which is what is in contact with the carpet. You’ll see this on your standard cordless stick vacuum as well. The amount of area that this covers is significant, because it will inform you as to how quickly you will be able to clean your carpets.

However, you also want to be aware of obstacles in your home, like sharp corners and narrow hallways. You want to be sure that the cleaning path is small enough to fit.

Available Attachments for the Units

There are many tools that make full house carpet cleaning the best it can be. They offer scrubbing brushes that reduce the effort you need to get rid of those deep set stains in your carpet, and other options that can save you energy.

Upholstery cleaning attachments, smaller brush heads, and other attachments all allow your carpet cleaner to become a more universal machine. You can also get hose extensions which can help you to clean hard to reach spaces.

Rinse Only Options

Having a rinse only option is important when you’re trying to keep your carpets in top shape. It doesn’t only allow you to rinse the detergent out of the fibers, but it makes the process quicker.

Traditional machines don’t have this feature, and require you to take the water tank, rinse it out, and then put it back in with clean water to rinse. Newer machines offer this feature, so it’s worth the effort to search it out.

Ease of Repair and Replacement

The best carpet cleaner machine is going to be an investment, so you want it to last a long time. You want to be able to repair and/or replace parts of your machine easily.

There are many professionals out there that can repair items like a canister vacuum or a carpet cleaner. Look around your local area to find out who you can work with and what they charge in order to help you keep your machine running.

Size of the Hose and Cord

Hoses and cords come in many sizes and styles, and you want to find a model of carpet cleaner that has the flexibility that you need. If you have a wide area that you’re going to need to use the carpet cleaner on, then you want to have a machine that you won’t have to unplug and plug back in constantly.

Also, if you are only dealing with small area rugs or stairs, a portable carpet cleaner rather than a full-size machine might be a better option.

Water Heater Options

While some companies do have a built-in water heater with their machines, it isn’t industry standard quite yet. Most machines on the market actually require users to get the hot water themselves and pour it into the tank on the machine.

You need to specifically look for a built-in water heater as an option, so keep your eyes peeled if it’s a priority for you to have included. It may cost more, but the device is less susceptible to malfunctions and other issues.

Water Tank Size

The size of your water tank is going to let you know how often you will need to refill your water tank. But, the larger tanks are going to make your unit heavier, so you want to be sure to consider that as well.

The better carpet cleaners for home use have a one-gallon capacity for the included water tank. If you’re looking at a commercial grade cleaning option, then you’re looking at something that is closer to 2 gallons.

Cost of the Machine

If you’re looking at the most basic of carpet cleaners, then you are likely going to spend around $150 to $200 in order to get what it is that you may need. But, if you want the best spray and vacuum carpet cleaner on the market, expect to pay more – sometimes, more than you’d pay for a robot vacuum nowadays.”

Something that is closer to commercial-grade and that has all of the bells and whistles (extra attachments, etc.) could drive up the cost. Some carpet cleaners could cost $500+

Weight of the Carpet Cleaner

Carpet cleaning takes a lot of effort and energy, and you don’t need to deal with a heavy machine on top of all of that. If you have a lot of floor space to cover, find a lighter option for your carpet cleaning.

Thankfully, the best carpet shampooers are lighter than ever, coming in at just under 20 lbs. You can also find lightweight options that are closer to 12 lbs. They haven’t gotten as lightweight as a handheld vacuum, but with new technology, they may get close.

Built in Carpet Drying

If you’ve ever cleaned your carpets in the past, you know that it can take some time to dry. It can take up to 8 hours unassisted, and it can take even longer when the weather is cold or humid.

Some newer types of cleaners will actually include a built-in drying system, which can halve the amount of time that is necessary for drying. These can cut the time down to 3 hours, depending on which options that you’ve decided to purchase.

Ease of Use

Modern carpet cleaners allow you to take care of rug and carpet cleaning on your own and without need for much additional assistance. The manuals are easy to understand and anyone in your family should have an easy time with it.

Commercial-grade cleaners may take some more effort to learn how to use, but they’re far easier to figure out than setting up a robot vacuum for instance. It’s likely that you’ll get to using your cleaner quickly after reading the manual or watching a tutorial on the web.

Carpet Cleaning Solution Options

There are many options available as you look at the best solutions for stains and other common problems in your home. With traditional options, you had to use whatever brand of solution was associated with the cleaner in question.

Nowadays, the newer models are that much more flexible, so you can choose which solution is best for your home and situation. Make sure that you read about the cleaner you’re considering to see what solutions you can use with it.

Storage Options for Your Cleaner

Like an upright vacuum or canister vacuum, you want your cleaner to be able to fit in the space you have available for it. Commercial grade carpet cleaners are usually large and bulky, which can make it difficult if storage space is at a premium in your home.

There are definitely a number of smaller carpet cleaners that store easily. You can also find some larger cleaners that disassemble in order to help you store it away in smaller spaces.

Available Warranty Options

Warranties are essential when you’re buying a large-box item like the best carpet cleaner. You want to know that it’s going to be taken care of if something goes wrong.

Many warranties are a year long, and will include the parts and labor that are needed for the repairs in question. Commercial grade options could last 3 to 5 years. You may also be able to pay extra to get an extended warranty for the best carpet cleaner from the manufacturer or the retailer.

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner
Our pick for the best carpet cleaner is: Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner. This choice was made after spending 39 hours researching carpet cleaners.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a carpet shampooer and a steamer?

There are a few differences between the best carpet shampooers and a full-size or handheld steam cleaner. A steam cleaner uses hot water to help loosen up the dirt caught in your carpet, and then vacuums it up.

Shampooers do a bit more of a deep clean. You use the best carpet cleaner solution for stains and mix it with warm water. The solution is applied to the carpet, and a brush on the device loosens the dirt, cleaning as the solution dries.

What are the advantages to buying your own carpet cleaner?

One of the primary reasons you may want to buy something like a vacuum and carpet cleaner combo rather than just a corded stick vacuum is because it can save you money and make it simpler to take care of in home carpet cleaning on your own.

You will also find that it’s much easier to deal with deep cleaning if you own a good carpet cleaner. It’ll remove the time it takes to go and rent one.

How will I know if I need to change the water or solution in my carpet cleaner?

Many of the best carpet cleaner options out there actually have sensors built within the machines to automatically turn them off when the tank holding the cleaning solution is too dirty, so you don’t have to try and keep track of that.

If there is not a sensor built into the machine, there may be a light or other module that has been installed so that you can gauge when you need to change the water and/or solution mixture.

Should I get a compact or full sized carpet cleaner?

The size of your carpet cleaner is going to depend on the size of your home. For people that live in apartments and other smaller areas, it may be wise to purchase a compact cleaner.

If you have a larger home, you are going to want to seek out a full sized carpet cleaner. The water tank will be much larger, allowing you to clean more of your home’s carpets before changing the water. This saves you both time and effort.

Are carpet cleaners safe for pets and children?

Absolutely! When you start to look for the best carpet cleaner for pets and kids, there are many options that are healthy and safe to use around the house and that will prevent your whole family from falling ill.

You also want to be aware of the cleaning solutions that you purchase. Look for options that are non-toxic, pet safe, and child safe. Keep the cleaning solution locked away where no one can get it, and it’ll work out perfectly.

Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner
Our pick for the best carpet cleaner is: Bissell 86T3 Big Green Professional Carpet Cleaner. This choice was made after spending 39 hours researching carpet cleaners.

Sources

  1. "Green" Cleaning for Carpet Cleaners, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency
  2. Six Brands of Dry Carpet Cleaning Powder Recalled by Milliken, United States Consumer Product Safety Commission, November 23, 2016
  3. 3 Tips for Hiring a Carpet Cleaner, City of Covington
  4. General Carpet Suggestions; Stain Solutions, U of I Extension
  5. Carpet Cleaning, Wikipedia
  6. Best and Worst Carpet Cleaners From Consumer Reports' Tests, Consumer Reports, June 11, 2018
  7. The 9 Best Carpet Cleaners to Buy in 2018, The Spruce, May 18, 2018
  8. Best Carpet Cleaners 2018 - Steam Cleaners for Deep Stains, TopTen Reviews, June 8, 2018
  9. The best carpet cleaners, Telegraph, June 12, 2017
  10. How to buy the best carpet cleaner, Which?

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