When it comes to portable carpet cleaning, Bissell stands out as a trusted brand offering a variety of models tailored for different needs. The Best Overall pick is the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner 1400B, known for its versatility and strong cleaning power. The Little Green Max Pet excels for pet owners, while the TurboClean Pet XL offers a more robust upright option for larger spaces. Buyers often face tradeoffs between portability, power, and specialized features—this guide helps you weigh these factors. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each model and how to choose the right one for your home.
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Key Takeaways
- The best models balance portability with cleaning power, with the 1400B standing out as the most versatile choice.
- Pet-specific options like the Little Green Max Pet and TurboClean Pet XL provide targeted solutions for pet hair and stains.
- Compact models such as the Little Green Mini are ideal for quick, light cleaning but may lack deep cleaning features.
- Price often correlates with features: more expensive models generally offer stronger suction and additional attachments.
- Choosing the right Bissell depends heavily on your space size, pet needs, and whether you prioritize ease of use or deep cleaning.
| BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner, 4075 |  | Best for Quick, Spot Cleaning and Pet Odors | Includes: 4” Tough Stain Tool with removable lens, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, 8oz BISSELL Little Green Formula | Features: Portable, compact storage | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown | |
| BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner 1400B |  | Best for Versatile, On-the-Go Cleaning of Small Messes | Brand: Bissell | Model Number: 1400B | Capacity: 48 oz | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Deep Pet Stain and Odor Removal | Power: 30% more powerful than competitors | Tank Technology: Two-tank system for clean and dirty water separation | Included Tools: Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Heavy-Duty Pet Messes and Large Areas | Tank Capacity: Extra-large | Cleaning Areas: Carpet, upholstery, auto interiors | Includes: Triple Action PET PRO OXY Spot & Stain formula | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner 3618 |  | Best for Versatile Deep Cleaning with Steam | Cleaning Modes: 3 (SteamWash, Steam, Wash) | Tank Capacity: 64 oz | Included Tools: 5″ Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746 |  | Best for Large Areas and Pet Stains | Brand: Bissell | Model Number: 3746 | Unit Count: 1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner, 4075
This compact model excels at tackling pet stains and odors in small spots, making it ideal for quick cleanup tasks. Compared with larger models like the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet, it offers less cleaning capacity but is significantly easier to store and maneuver. Its included tools and formula provide effective stain removal, though multiple passes might be needed for stubborn or deep-set stains. The small size makes it perfect for quick touch-ups or cleaning tight spaces, but it isn’t suited for larger areas or deep cleaning jobs.
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
- May require multiple passes for deep stains
Best for: Pet owners and families needing a portable, easy-to-store cleaner for quick stains and odors
Not ideal for: People wanting to clean entire rooms or large carpets, as its small capacity limits its efficiency for bigger jobs
- Includes:4” Tough Stain Tool with removable lens, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, 8oz BISSELL Little Green Formula
- Features:Portable, compact storage
Our verdict“This model is perfect for quick, targeted cleaning of pet messes in tight spaces or small areas.”
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner 1400B
This lightweight option is designed for quick spot cleaning on various surfaces like upholstery, stairs, and vehicle interiors. While the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet offers more power and specialized pet tools, the 1400B balances portability with effective cleaning for small, everyday messes. Its large 48 oz water tank supports longer cleaning sessions without frequent refills, and it’s easy to use for those new to portable carpet cleaning. However, it’s not suited for deep cleaning or entire rooms and might need multiple passes for stubborn stains.
Pros:- Effective at removing pet stains and odors
- Lightweight and portable for easy use anywhere
- Large water tank allows for extended cleaning sessions
Cons:- Designed for small messes, not full-room cleaning
- May need multiple passes for stubborn stains
- Limited to surface cleaning, not deep carpet cleaning
Best for: Pet owners and individuals frequently cleaning small areas or vehicles
Not ideal for: Homeowners looking for a full-room carpet cleaner, as this is limited to surface messes
- Brand:Bissell
- Model Number:1400B
- Capacity:48 oz
- Included Components:Trial-Size Formula, HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool, 3″ Tough Stain Tool
- Warranty:1 Year limited
Our verdict“This cleaner is well-suited for quick, portable cleaning of small spills and pet messes on various surfaces.”
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner
Compared to the smaller Little Green Mini, the Max Pet offers 30% more power and a two-tank system, making it a stronger choice for deep cleaning and pet messes. Its self-cleaning stain tool and specialized pet formulas facilitate effective removal of tough stains and odors, though its bulkier size may be less convenient for tight storage spaces. The extended hose and longer cord improve reach, but the increased weight could be challenging for some users to handle regularly.
Pros:- Powerful suction for deep cleaning
- Effective pet stain and odor removal
- Self-cleaning tool simplifies maintenance
- Includes specialized tools and solutions
Cons:- May be bulky for small storage spaces
- Limited to small to medium cleaning tasks
- Requires specific cleaning formulas for best results
Best for: Pet owners needing a portable, powerful cleaner for stubborn pet stains and odors
Not ideal for: Those with limited storage space or seeking a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver cleaner for occasional use
- Power:30% more powerful than competitors
- Tank Technology:Two-tank system for clean and dirty water separation
- Included Tools:Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool
- Additional Features:Longer hose and cord, use with Triple Action PET PRO OXY formula
Our verdict“This model is the best choice for pet owners who need serious power and effective stain removal in a portable package.”
BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Carpet Cleaner
With its large tank and powerful suction, the Little Green Pet Pro surpasses many portable cleaners for deep cleaning large pet messes across carpets, upholstery, and auto interiors. While models like the Mini are more compact, the Pet Pro’s extra capacity allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent refills. Its specialized Triple Action PET PRO OXY formula enhances stain and odor removal, making it a solid choice for pet households that need more extensive cleaning power, though its size might limit storage options in smaller spaces.
Pros:- Powerful suction that beats many competitors
- Large tank capacity for longer cleaning sessions
- Effective pet stain removal with specialized formula
Cons:- Requires specific cleaning formulas for best results
- May be bulky for storage in small spaces
Best for: Pet owners dealing with multiple or large pet stains on carpets, upholstery, and vehicles
Not ideal for: People with very limited storage space or those needing a lightweight, minimal tool for occasional small messes
- Tank Capacity:Extra-large
- Cleaning Areas:Carpet, upholstery, auto interiors
- Includes:Triple Action PET PRO OXY Spot & Stain formula
Our verdict“This cleaner is ideal for pet owners seeking a powerful, large-capacity portable solution for heavy-duty messes.”
BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner 3618
The HydroSteam model stands out for combining steam cleaning with traditional suction, offering a multi-mode approach that surpasses basic models like the Mini. Its 3 cleaning modes—SteamWash, Steam, and Wash—provide flexibility to handle everything from light touch-ups to deep stains on carpets, upholstery, and tile. The 64 oz tank supports extended cleaning, and its included tools make it versatile. However, the weight and multiple steps involved may be less appealing for quick spot jobs, and the price point is higher than simpler models.
Pros:- Effective at removing tough stains and pet accidents
- Fast drying time of about 30 minutes
- Versatile for multiple surfaces including carpets, upholstery, and tile
- Multiple cleaning modes for different needs
Cons:- May be heavy to carry for some users
- Requires multiple steps for deep cleaning
- Price not specified, potentially higher than basic models
Best for: Homeowners seeking a versatile, multi-surface cleaner that can do deep cleaning with steam and quick touch-ups
Not ideal for: Users wanting a lightweight, single-purpose cleaner for small stains or quick jobs
- Cleaning Modes:3 (SteamWash, Steam, Wash)
- Tank Capacity:64 oz
- Included Tools:5″ Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool
- Warranty:3-year limited
Our verdict“This model is best for those who want a flexible, multi-surface cleaner with steam capabilities for deep and quick cleaning tasks.”
BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746
The BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL stands out for its expansive 10-inch cleaning path, making it ideal for tackling large carpeted areas quickly—this is a clear advantage over smaller, portable options like the BISSELL Little Green Mini. Its included versatile tools make it effective not just on carpets but also for upholstery, stairs, and pet beds, which is a significant benefit for pet owners needing multi-surface cleaning in one device. However, its weight and size could be a drawback for users needing a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver cleaner, and it requires specific cleaning formulas, adding to ongoing costs. Compared to the Little Green Max Pet, this model offers larger capacity and wider coverage but may lack the portability some users prefer for quick, spot cleaning. The large 1-gallon tank reduces the need for frequent refills during big jobs, making it more efficient for deep cleaning tasks. The deep cleaning brushes and pet-specific formulas are designed to remove pet stains and allergens effectively, which is a major plus for pet owners. Still, the absence of cordless operation limits its convenience for quick, on-the-go cleanups. This pick is best suited for households with large, heavily soiled carpets and multiple pet-related cleaning needs.
Pros:- Wide 10-inch cleaning path for efficient coverage of large areas
- Includes versatile tools for above-floor surfaces and pet beds
- Large 1-gallon tank reduces refilling interruptions
- Effective at removing pet stains and allergens
Cons:- No cordless or lightweight design, making it less maneuverable
- Requires specific cleaning formulas, adding ongoing costs
- Potentially heavy for some users to carry and store
Best for: Pet-owning families who need to clean large carpeted spaces and upholstery frequently without refilling often.
Not ideal for: Users seeking a lightweight, cordless, or highly portable cleaner for quick spot cleaning or small areas.
- Brand:Bissell
- Model Number:3746
- Unit Count:1
- Included Components:Crevice Tool
- UPC:011120272710
- Best Sellers Rank:#2,750 in Home & Kitchen
Our verdict“This model is best suited for pet owners and large households needing deep, comprehensive cleaning of carpets and upholstery without frequent refills.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on a combination of cleaning performance, ease of use, build quality, and value for money. We prioritized models that deliver consistent results across different carpet types and stains, while also considering user convenience and maintenance. The ranking reflects a balance between portability, power, and specialized features tailored for pet owners or quick touch-ups. Models with additional attachments or larger tanks scored higher, as they offer more versatility and longer cleaning sessions without frequent refills. Cost was also a factor, ensuring recommendations suit a range of budgets while maintaining effectiveness.Factors to Consider When Choosing Bissell
Choosing the right Bissell carpet cleaner involves understanding key factors that impact cleaning results, usability, and value. Not all models are suited for every home, so considering your specific needs can save time and money while ensuring you get the best results. Below are some critical aspects to evaluate before making a purchase.Cleaning Power and Suction
Effective carpet cleaning depends heavily on suction strength and motor power. Higher suction levels typically mean better removal of dirt, stains, and pet hair. However, more powerful models can be heavier and less portable, so balance your need for deep cleaning with ease of handling. Consider whether you need a model capable of tackling deep-set stains or just light refreshes, as this influences your choice of motor strength and design.
Portability and Size
If space is limited or you prefer quick cleanups, compact and lightweight models are tempting. But these often sacrifice some cleaning power or tank capacity. Larger models may offer longer cleaning sessions without refilling but can be cumbersome to move around, especially in tight spaces. Think about where you’ll store the cleaner and how often you’ll carry it to different rooms to determine the right size for your home.
Pet-Specific Features
Pet owners should look for models with features like specialized brushes, deep stain removal capabilities, and odor-eliminating filters. Models like the Little Green Max Pet are designed with pet hair removal in mind, but they typically cost more. Be aware that some pet-focused models are heavier or bulkier, so consider your comfort when choosing a model with these features.
Attachments and Versatility
Attachments such as crevice tools, brushes, or upholstery attachments can extend a cleaner’s usefulness beyond carpets. If you plan to clean furniture, stairs, or upholstery, look for models that include or offer these extras. However, additional attachments can increase complexity and cost, so prioritize those that match your cleaning routine.
Maintenance and Tank Capacity
Regular maintenance ensures your cleaner performs consistently. Check how easy it is to clean filters, brushes, and tanks. Larger tanks reduce the frequency of refilling, making long cleaning sessions more convenient, but they also add weight. Balance your typical cleaning sessions’ size with tank capacity to choose a model that fits your routine without becoming unwieldy.
Price and Value
More expensive models often provide stronger suction, better durability, and extra features, but you might not need all of these for light cleaning. Conversely, budget options are suitable for occasional use but may fall short on heavy-duty tasks. Assess your cleaning frequency and specific needs to find a model that offers the best value for your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Bissell carpet cleaners on hardwood floors?
While Bissell carpet cleaners are primarily designed for carpets and upholstery, many models include attachments or settings suitable for hard floors. However, using them directly on hardwood without proper attachments can cause damage or leave excess moisture. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and use specific accessories designed for hard surfaces to prevent any harm to your floors.
Are pet-specific Bissell models worth the extra cost?
Pet-specific Bissell models often feature specialized brushes, odor-eliminating filters, and deeper cleaning capabilities that justify their higher price for pet owners. If you regularly deal with pet hair, stains, or odors, investing in these models can save time and improve results. For non-pet households, standard models may suffice, saving you money without sacrificing performance.
How often should I clean the filters and tanks on my Bissell?
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your Bissell performing well. Filters should be cleaned or replaced every few months, depending on usage, to maintain suction and prevent odors. Tanks should be emptied and rinsed after each use to avoid mold and bacteria buildup. Following the manufacturer’s cleaning schedule helps extend the life of your machine and ensures consistent cleaning results.
Is a larger tank always better for deep cleaning?
While a larger tank reduces the need for frequent refills during long cleaning sessions, it also makes the machine heavier and potentially harder to maneuver. For small spaces or quick touch-ups, a smaller tank might be more practical. Consider your typical cleaning area size and whether portability or capacity is more important to determine the best fit.
Should I prioritize cordless or corded Bissell models?
Most Bissell models are corded, offering consistent power and avoiding battery life concerns. Corded models generally provide stronger suction and longer operation times, ideal for deep cleaning. Cordless options are lighter and more convenient for quick, small tasks but may lack the same cleaning strength or runtime. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize power and duration over convenience.
Conclusion
For most users, the Best Overall choice will be the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner 1400B, offering a versatile balance of power, portability, and features. Pet owners should consider the Little Green Max Pet or TurboClean Pet XL for targeted stain and hair removal. Budget-conscious buyers might prefer the smaller, lighter models like the Little Green Mini for quick touch-ups, while those with larger spaces or heavy-duty needs should opt for more robust upright options. Ultimately, selecting the right Bissell depends on your specific cleaning routines, space constraints, and whether you prioritize ease of use or deep cleaning performance. This guide helps clarify those choices so you can find a model tailored to your household.
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