10 Best Portable Carpet Shampooers 2025 in the United States

The Bissell Little Green Mini is a compact and lightweight portable carpet and upholstery cleaner, weighing just 7 pounds, which makes it easy to carry and store in small spaces. It features a 16-ounce tank capacity, suitable for quick cleaning tasks rather than large areas. The included 4-inch Tough Stain Tool and HydroRinse self-cleaning hose make it versatile for targeted spot cleaning, especially on upholstery, car interiors, and pet beds.

This model is designed to handle pet stains and common household messes effectively, supported by its Little Green cleaning formula that removes stains and odors permanently. The unit is corded, so it requires an outlet nearby, which may limit mobility compared to cordless options but ensures consistent suction power.

It is a strong choice for those needing a portable cleaner for small-scale jobs, especially pet owners or car detailers, but it is not ideal if you want to clean large rooms or wide carpet areas quickly.

The Shark Carpet Cleaner Machine, also known as the Portable Upholstery StainStriker, is designed to tackle tough stains and odors in various surfaces, making it particularly useful for pet owners and anyone dealing with stubborn marks. Weighing in at just under 9 lbs, this machine is lightweight and easy to maneuver, which is a definite advantage when cleaning upholstered furniture, carpets, and even vehicles. Its compact size allows for convenient storage after use, which is also a plus for those with limited space.

One of its standout features is the powerful suction capability, which helps to pull out dirt and liquids that are deeply embedded, making your carpets and upholstery look revitalized. The dual-activated stain elimination formula works effectively without the need for premixing, simplifying the cleaning process. The inclusion of multiple accessories, such as a pet tool and a crevice tool, makes it versatile for various cleaning needs around the home.

On the downside, the tank capacity of 2 liters might be limiting for larger cleaning jobs, requiring more frequent refills. Additionally, while the portable design enhances usability, it may not have the same power or effectiveness as larger, more traditional carpet cleaners, especially for extensive stains or deep cleaning sessions. The cord length is also not specified, which might be a concern for users needing to cover larger areas without the hassle of switching outlets.

The Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker is a powerful upright carpet and upholstery cleaner designed with pet owners in mind. It features strong suction combined with a high-speed brush and high-pressure spray, which work together to deeply clean carpets and rugs by removing dirt, grime, and tough stains. The dual tank system separates clean and dirty water, ensuring you always clean with fresh solution, helping to keep your carpets cleaner. The cleaner weighs about 18 pounds, which is manageable for moving around different rooms, though not the lightest option if you need something ultra-portable.

While the exact cleaning path width isn't specified, the included accessories—such as a 3.5-inch reversible bristle tool and pet mess extractor—enable effective cleaning of carpets, stairs, upholstery, and tight spaces. The product offers ultra-fast drying times, so your carpets won’t stay wet for long after cleaning. It also comes with two specialized cleaning formulas, including one that targets tough stains with the power of oxygen-based chemicals, eliminating the need to pre-mix solutions.

The listed tank capacity appeared to be a likely error and should be verified before purchase since typical portable carpet shampooers have much smaller tanks. If you have pets and want a machine that can handle stains and odors effectively while offering multiple cleaning tools, this Shark model is a strong contender. However, if you prioritize a lightweight, compact design or very large tank capacity, other options might better suit your needs.