When it comes to portable carpet cleaners, Bissell stands out for its versatile and effective options. The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner 3618 is the best overall pick, offering a powerful combination of steam cleaning and portability. For pet owners, the BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Carpet Cleaner provides targeted pet stain removal, while the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner 3588F delivers deep cleaning for frequent use. The main tradeoffs involve balancing cleaning power, size, and price—more powerful models tend to be bulkier and pricier. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and how to choose the right Bissell for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top models excel in pet stain removal and deep cleaning, making them ideal for pet owners.
- Portability varies significantly; smaller models are easier to carry but may lack some features of larger units.
- Steam cleaning capabilities are a common feature, but not all models include this, affecting versatility.
- Price points differ based on power, size, and features—value depends on matching features to actual needs.
- Durability and ease of maintenance are consistent factors that influence long-term satisfaction.
| BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner 3618 |  | Best Overall for Versatile Portable Cleaning | Capacity: 64 oz | Cleaning Modes: 3 | Tools Included: 5″ Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner, 4075 |  | Best for Pet Owners and On-the-Go Cleaning | Includes: 4″ Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse hose, 8oz. formula | Purpose: Cleaning carpets, upholstery, pet beds, and car interiors | Features: Portable, compact storage | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Deep Pet Stain and Odor Removal | Tank Capacity: Extra-large | Suitable for: Carpet, upholstery, auto interiors | Cleaning Technology: Triple Action PET PRO OXY | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner, 3588F |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Pet Stain and Odor Removal | Model: 3588F | Features: Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, Max and Express modes | Includes: Pro Max Clean + Protect, Pet Pro Oxy Urine Eliminator | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Heavy Pet Messes with Enhanced Power | Power: 30% more powerful than competitors | Includes: Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool | Technology: Dual tank system, StainProtect Technology | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet SmartMix Carpet Cleaner, 38572 |  | Best for Pet Stains and Heavy-Duty Spot Cleaning | Technology: SmartMix | Suction Power: 30% more powerful than competitors | Includes: Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool, 8 oz. stain formula | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Small, Quick Cleanups and Versatile Use | Capacity: 48 oz | Brand: BISSELL | Model: 1400B | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bissell | Includes |
|---|---|
| BISSELL Little Green HydroStea | — |
| BISSELL Little Green Mini Port | 4" Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse hose, 8oz. formula |
| BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro P | — |
| BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution | Pro Max Clean + Protect, Pet Pro Oxy Urine Eliminator |
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet P | Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool |
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet S | Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool, 8 oz. stain formula |
| BISSELL Little Green Multi-Pur | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner 3618
This model stands out for combining steam, suction, and OXY technology to tackle stains across multiple surfaces, making it a flexible choice compared to the Little Green Mini. Its HydroSteam technology ensures effective stain removal, especially on carpets and upholstery, with a quick 30-minute drying time. However, its bulkier design can be a challenge for small storage spaces, and it’s not suited for large-area cleaning due to portability limitations. The included tools and multiple cleaning modes offer comprehensive solutions, but the size and effort needed for deep cleaning are tradeoffs to consider.
Pros:- Effective stain removal with HydroSteam technology
- Multi-surface versatility for carpets, upholstery, and tile
- Fast drying time of about 30 minutes
Cons:- May be bulky for small storage spaces
- Requires some effort for deep cleaning
Best for: Homeowners needing a versatile, portable cleaner for various surfaces and pet stains
Not ideal for: Users seeking a lightweight, space-saving device for quick, small jobs
- Capacity:64 oz
- Cleaning Modes:3
- Tools Included:5″ Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This cleaner is ideal for those who want a versatile, portable solution that handles multiple surfaces with quick results.”
BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner, 4075
Compared with the larger HydroSteam model, the Little Green Mini excels in portability and ease of storage, making it perfect for quick cleanups of pet messes and car interiors. Its compact size limits cleaning capacity, but it compensates with effective pet odor and stain removal, especially with included tools like the 4″ Tough Stain Tool. The need to purchase cleaning formulas separately and limited deep-cleaning power make it less suited for extensive jobs. Still, this pick is a smart choice for pet owners who prioritize convenience and quick results over large-scale cleaning.
Pros:- Effective at removing pet stains and odors
- Compact and easy to store
- Includes useful cleaning tools and formula
Cons:- Limited cleaning capacity due to small size
- Requires purchase of cleaning formula separately
Best for: Pet owners needing a compact, portable device for quick stain and odor removal in small spaces or vehicles
Not ideal for: Users looking to clean large areas or deep stains regularly, as its small capacity limits efficiency
- Includes:4″ Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse hose, 8oz. formula
- Purpose:Cleaning carpets, upholstery, pet beds, and car interiors
- Features:Portable, compact storage
Our verdict“This device is perfect for pet owners who need a portable, quick solution for small-scale cleaning tasks.”
BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Carpet Cleaner
The Little Green Pet Pro offers a significant upgrade in power and capacity over the Mini, with powerful suction and a large tank suitable for deep cleaning larger areas or multiple rooms. Its Triple Action PET PRO OXY technology makes it more effective at removing pet stains and odors compared to the HydroSteam model. However, this increased power comes with added bulk, making it less ideal for tight spaces or quick spot cleans. This cleaner is well-suited for pet owners who need serious stain removal and don’t mind a larger device.
Pros:- Powerful suction surpassing many competitors
- Large tank for extended cleaning sessions
- Effective pet stain removal with specialized formulas
Cons:- Bulky design may hinder maneuverability
- Requires specific cleaning formulas for best results
Best for: Pet owners who need a dedicated, powerful tool for deep cleaning and odor control
Not ideal for: Those with limited storage space or looking for a lightweight, quick-use device
- Tank Capacity:Extra-large
- Suitable for:Carpet, upholstery, auto interiors
- Cleaning Technology:Triple Action PET PRO OXY
Our verdict“This cleaner is best for pet owners who want a deep cleaning powerhouse for larger spaces and persistent stains.”
BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner, 3588F
The ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is the most powerful in this lineup, equipped with dual brush rolls and multiple cleaning modes to handle stubborn pet stains and deep-seated odors more effectively than the smaller models. Its Max and Express modes give flexibility for different cleaning needs, and the included formulas boost stain and odor elimination. The heavier weight and multiple parts mean it’s less convenient for quick, one-off cleanups, but it excels in tackling challenging pet messes in larger areas. If you need a professional-grade, heavy-duty cleaner, this model delivers.
Pros:- Effective at removing tough pet stains and odors
- Dual brush rolls provide deep scrubbing
- Multiple cleaning modes for versatile use
Cons:- Heavy and bulky to maneuver
- Requires regular maintenance of brushes and tanks
Best for: Homes needing a serious, deep-cleaning solution for persistent pet stains and odors
Not ideal for: Users seeking a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver device for quick jobs
- Model:3588F
- Features:Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, Max and Express modes
- Includes:Pro Max Clean + Protect, Pet Pro Oxy Urine Eliminator
Our verdict“This model is suited for users who need a robust, professional-level cleaner for demanding pet-related messes.”
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner
The Little Green Max Pet stands out with 30% more power than typical portable cleaners and includes a self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool that simplifies maintenance. Its longer hose and cord expand reach, making it easier to clean large or hard-to-access areas, while the dual tank system supports continuous use. Its Triple Action cleaning technology ensures pet stains and hair are thoroughly removed, making it ideal for households with frequent pet messes. However, the higher power and larger size may be overwhelming for users with limited storage or those who only need occasional cleaning.
Pros:- Powerful suction for deep cleaning
- Effective pet stain and hair removal
- Self-cleaning tool simplifies maintenance
Cons:- Requires specific cleaning formulas for optimal results
- Limited capacity with small water tanks
Best for: Pet owners requiring a high-power, portable cleaner for large or stubborn pet stains
Not ideal for: Users with small storage spaces or who only want a simple, lightweight device
- Power:30% more powerful than competitors
- Includes:Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool
- Technology:Dual tank system, StainProtect Technology
Our verdict“This cleaner is ideal for pet owners who want a powerful, portable solution with minimal maintenance for tough messes.”
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet SmartMix Carpet Cleaner, 38572
The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet stands out for its specialized pet-focused tools and 30% more powerful suction compared with the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner. Its SmartMix technology guarantees consistent cleaning solution, which is a significant upgrade over simpler models that require manual mixing. This device is designed specifically for pet owners dealing with stubborn stains and pet hair, with a self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool and longer hose for hard-to-reach areas. However, its higher price and reliance on specific stain formulas may make it less appealing for casual users or those with infrequent pet messes. Compared to the Multi-Purpose model, this cleaner offers more power and pet-specific features, but at a premium. This pick makes the most sense for pet owners seeking a dedicated, powerful spot cleaner that handles tough stains and pet hair efficiently.
Pros:- Provides 30% more suction power than competitors, making stain removal more effective
- Includes specialized tools for pet hair and tough stains, streamlining pet mess cleanup
- Automatic SmartMix ensures consistent solution concentration for reliable results
- Longer hose and cord facilitate cleaning hard-to-reach areas
Cons:- Higher price point compared to basic portable cleaners, which might deter casual users
- Requires specific stain formulas for optimal performance, adding to ongoing costs
Best for: Pet owners needing a dedicated, high-power stain and hair removal tool for frequent use
Not ideal for: Homeowners with occasional spills or large area cleaning needs, as it is more expensive and specialized
- Technology:SmartMix
- Suction Power:30% more powerful than competitors
- Includes:Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool, 8 oz. stain formula
- Features:Automatic formula mixing, longer hose and cord, two tank system
Our verdict“This cleaner is ideal for pet owners who need a powerful, dedicated tool for stubborn stains and pet hair, despite its higher cost.”
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner offers a straightforward, compact solution for quick cleaning tasks around the home. With a generous 48 oz water tank, it can handle several small to medium spills without frequent refilling, making it more convenient than smaller models like the BISSELL Little Green Mini. Its triple-action formula effectively tackles stains and odors on carpets and upholstery, though it isn’t designed for heavy-duty or continuous cleaning sessions. Unlike the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet, it lacks pet-specific tools and the extra suction power, which means it’s less suited for intensive pet messes but more accessible for occasional spot cleaning. Its portability and large tank make it a practical choice for users who want a versatile, easy-to-use machine for light to medium tasks.
Pros:- Large 48 oz water tank reduces the need for frequent refills during cleaning
- Effective at removing stains and odors with triple-action formula
- Compact and portable design for easy storage and maneuverability
- Suitable for both carpets and upholstery
Cons:- Limited to small and medium cleaning tasks; not designed for large areas
- Requires multiple refills for extensive cleaning, which can slow down larger jobs
Best for: Homeowners who need a reliable, portable cleaner for occasional stains and odors on small to medium surfaces
Not ideal for: Pet owners with frequent heavy pet messes or those requiring deep cleaning of large areas, as it lacks specialized pet tools and power
- Capacity:48 oz
- Brand:BISSELL
- Model:1400B
Our verdict“This cleaner is best for users seeking a lightweight, versatile tool for quick, small-scale cleaning tasks in the home.”
How We Picked
These Bissell models were evaluated based on cleaning performance, ease of use, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized models with proven stain removal and versatility, especially those suitable for pet owners. Additional considerations included weight, tank capacity, and user-friendly features like accessories and ease of maintenance. The ranking reflects a balance between affordability and performance, aiming to help buyers find the best fit for their specific cleaning needs and budgets.Factors to Consider When Choosing Bissell
When choosing a Bissell carpet cleaner, it’s important to consider several factors that affect both performance and convenience. Not all models are created equal, and understanding key features can help you avoid common pitfalls such as overspending on unnecessary power or settling for a machine that’s too bulky for your space. Carefully weighing your cleaning needs against these factors will ensure you select a model that offers the best value and usability for your situation.Cleaning Power and Performance
Assess whether the model offers sufficient suction and heat for your typical messes. For stubborn stains or pet accidents, a machine with strong agitation and deep cleaning modes makes a significant difference. Some models include steam cleaning, which can eliminate bacteria and odors without chemical cleaners. Failing to match the cleaning power to your needs can result in ineffective cleaning or unnecessary expense on overly powerful units.
Portability and Size
Consider how easy the machine is to carry and store. Smaller, lightweight models are perfect for quick spot cleaning and tight spaces but may lack larger tanks for extended use. Conversely, bulkier models often have bigger tanks and more features but can be cumbersome to move around, especially in multi-story homes. Think about your typical cleaning area and whether portability or capacity is more critical.
Pet-Friendliness and Odor Control
If you own pets, look for models specifically designed to handle pet hair, stains, and odors. Features like specialized brushes, odor-neutralizing solutions, and stronger suction are valuable. Cheaper models may not target pet messes effectively, so investing in a pet-specific cleaner can save time and frustration. Beware of models that lack these pet-focused features if pet messes are frequent in your home.
Ease of Maintenance and Durability
Check how simple it is to clean filters, tanks, and brushes. Machines with easily accessible parts save time and extend lifespan. Durability is also tied to build quality; cheaper plastics may degrade faster with frequent use. Consider warranty coverage and customer reviews to gauge long-term performance. A well-maintained cleaner can last for years, providing better overall value.
Price and Value
While higher-priced models often offer more features and durability, they aren’t always necessary for casual users. Focus on matching features to your cleaning frequency and mess types. Budget options can be sufficient for light use, but if you have frequent or heavy-duty cleaning needs, investing in a more capable model pays off. Avoid overspending on bells and whistles you won’t utilize.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Bissell carpet cleaners on area rugs or delicate carpets?
Many Bissell models are suitable for area rugs and delicate carpets, but it’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for each specific model. Generally, lighter models with gentle agitation are safer for delicate fabrics, while more robust machines are better suited for heavy-duty cleaning. Always test a small inconspicuous area first to prevent damage or color bleeding. Proper usage extends the life of your rugs and ensures effective cleaning without harm.
How often should I deep clean my carpets with a Bissell machine?
The frequency of deep cleaning depends on household traffic and whether you have pets or children. In high-traffic areas, cleaning every 3-6 months can help maintain appearance and hygiene. For homes with pets, more frequent cleaning may be necessary to control odors and stains. Regular spot cleaning with a portable Bissell can reduce the need for deep cleans, but a thorough session periodically will keep carpets fresh and clean.
Are Bissell carpet cleaners safe for hardwood floors or other surfaces?
While primarily designed for carpets, many Bissell models feature attachments suitable for cleaning hardwood floors, tiles, and upholstery. However, it’s essential to select a model with adjustable settings and avoid excessive water use on sensitive surfaces. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent damage, and consider models with multiple attachments if you want versatility beyond carpets.
What features should I prioritize if I have allergies or asthma?
If allergies or asthma are a concern, opt for Bissell models with HEPA filters and steam cleaning options that eliminate allergens and bacteria without chemicals. Regular maintenance, like changing filters and cleaning tanks, is crucial to keep the machine effective. Steam cleaners are particularly beneficial because they use high heat to sanitize surfaces without introducing dust or allergens back into the air.
Is it worth paying more for a model with steam cleaning?
Models with steam cleaning provide an extra level of sanitation by killing germs and neutralizing odors without chemicals. If you deal with frequent pet accidents, stubborn stains, or want a chemical-free cleaning option, investing in a steam-capable Bissell makes sense. However, for light, occasional use, a standard model may be sufficient. Weigh the added cost against your specific cleaning needs.
Conclusion
For general households seeking reliable cleaning power, the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner 3618 offers balanced performance and portability, making it the best overall choice. Pet owners and those with frequent stains will find the BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Carpet Cleaner particularly effective. Budget-conscious buyers should consider models like the BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner for light use, while heavy-duty users or those prioritizing deep sanitation might opt for the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner. Ultimately, your selection should align with your specific cleaning frequency, pet situation, and storage space, ensuring you get the best value for your needs.
