When searching for a reliable cleaning solution, Bissell stands out as a leading brand offering a variety of portable and upright carpet cleaners. The Best Overall pick is the BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright, known for its strong cleaning power and pet-specific features. The Little Green Max Pet shines as a top choice for pet owners needing portable solutions, while the Little Green HydroSteam offers versatile steam cleaning for multiple surfaces. Buyers often face a tradeoff between portability, cleaning effectiveness, and price—this guide breaks down what to look for. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to find the best Bissell for your needs.
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Key Takeaways
- The top models balance between portability and deep cleaning power, with the TurboClean Pet XL leading in versatility.
- Pet-specific models like the Little Green Max Pet excel at removing pet stains but often come at a higher price point.
- Steam cleaning options like the Little Green HydroSteam offer multi-surface use but may require more maintenance.
- Compact models provide budget-friendly and lightweight options but may compromise on performance.
- Product roles are clearly defined: upright cleaners for large areas, portable for quick spot cleaning, and steam models for multi-surface versatility.
| BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Quick, Spot Cleaning on Small Surfaces | Includes: 4” Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, 8oz. BISSELL Little Green Formula | Features: Cleans carpets, upholstery, car interiors, pet beds | Storage: Compact for small spaces | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum |  | Best for Light, Everyday Cleaning in Small Spaces | Weight: Less than 8 pounds | Extension Wand: Removable with quick-release | Design: Compact and lightweight | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Heavy Pet Stains and Odors | Power: 30% more powerful than competitors | Tank Technology: Two-tank system | Included Tools: Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746 |  | Best for Large Areas and Deep Cleaning | Brand: Bissell | Model Number: 3746 | Unit Count: 1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618 |  | Best for Versatile, Multi-Mode Cleaning | Tank Capacity: 64 oz | Cleaning Modes: 3 (SteamWash, Steam, Wash) | Included Tools: 5″ Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Spot Cleaning and Small Stains | Capacity: 48 oz | Brand: BISSELL | Model: 1400B | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948 |  | Best for Pet Stains and Heavy-Duty Cleaning | Model: 3948 | Type: Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner | Includes: 7 ft Hose, 4″ Self Cleanout Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner stands out for its compact size and effectiveness at targeting stains and odors, making it ideal for quick cleanups of upholstery, pet beds, and small carpeted areas. Compared with larger machines like the BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL, this model sacrifices capacity and cleaning power for portability and ease of storage. Its small tank means it’s less suited for large messes, but it excels at spot treatments. The inclusion of tools like the Tough Stain Tool enhances precision cleaning, yet it requires separate purchase of cleaning formulas, adding ongoing costs. This option is best for pet owners or parents who need a portable, quick solution for small stains rather than full-room cleaning.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and odors quickly
- Compact and easy to store in small spaces
- Supports pet rescue charities with each purchase
Cons:- Limited cleaning capacity restricts use to small messes
- Requires purchasing cleaning formulas separately
Best for: Pet owners and parents needing a portable device for quick stain removal in small areas
Not ideal for: Large households or deep cleaning tasks involving big areas, due to limited capacity and power
- Includes:4” Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, 8oz. BISSELL Little Green Formula
- Features:Cleans carpets, upholstery, car interiors, pet beds
- Storage:Compact for small spaces
Our verdict“This compact cleaner works best for quick, targeted stain removal rather than heavy-duty cleaning.”
Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum
For those seeking a lightweight, easy-to-handle vacuum, the Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum offers strong suction and a simple design, making it perfect for quick daily pickups in apartments or small homes. Its under-8-pound weight and removable extension wand make above-floor cleaning straightforward. Unlike the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet, which specializes in pet messes, this model is better suited for general dust and debris. Its bagless design simplifies emptying, but its small size means it’s not ideal for extensive cleaning sessions or larger homes. This vacuum makes sense for buyers prioritizing portability and ease of use over deep cleaning capacity.
Pros:- Powerful suction with scatter-free technology
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Removable extension wand for above-floor cleaning
Cons:- Limited to small spaces and light cleaning tasks
- Suitable mainly for hard floors and carpets
Best for: Individuals or small families needing a lightweight, versatile vacuum for regular quick cleanups
Not ideal for: Homes with pets or large areas that require more robust cleaning power and capacity
- Weight:Less than 8 pounds
- Extension Wand:Removable with quick-release
- Design:Compact and lightweight
- Bagless:Yes
Our verdict“This vacuum is ideal for daily quick cleans in small living spaces but isn’t suited for deep or large-area cleaning.”
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet makes a compelling case for pet owners dealing with stubborn stains and odors. It offers 30% more power than similar portable cleaners, making it better suited for deep cleaning pet messes compared to standard portable models. Its dual-tank system ensures clean water and dirty water stay separate, while the included self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool simplifies maintenance. Compared with the BISSELL HydroSteam, which offers multiple cleaning modes, the Max Pet focuses more on pet-specific messes with specialized formulas. However, its small size limits usage to moderate messes, and it requires specialized formulas that could add to ongoing costs. This cleaner is best for pet owners seeking deep, targeted cleaning with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Powerful suction for deep pet stain removal
- Effective pet-specific cleaning formulas
- Self-cleaning stain tool simplifies maintenance
- Includes multiple tools for different messes
Cons:- Limited to small or moderate messes
- Requires use of specific formulas, increasing ongoing costs
- May need multiple passes on stubborn stains
Best for: Pet owners needing a portable solution for deep cleaning pet stains and odors
Not ideal for: Users with large areas or heavy-duty cleaning needs, as its size limits capacity
- Power:30% more powerful than competitors
- Tank Technology:Two-tank system
- Included Tools:Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool
- Size:8 oz. trial size BISSELL PET PRO OXY formula
Our verdict“This portable cleaner is a strong choice for pet owners who need effective stain and odor removal without bulky equipment.”
BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746
The BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright is designed for bigger jobs, offering a wide 10-inch cleaning path that speeds up coverage. Its large 1-gallon tank minimizes refills, making it suitable for deep cleaning carpets, upholstery, and pet beds across larger spaces. The inclusion of pet-specific formulas enhances its ability to tackle stains and odors effectively. Compared with handheld models like the Little Green Max Pet, this upright provides more extensive cleaning power and faster results for larger areas. However, some users find it heavy to maneuver and note that it requires regular maintenance, including cleaning brushes and tanks. This machine is ideal for homeowners with larger carpeted areas or frequent pet messes needing efficient deep cleaning.
Pros:- Wide 10-inch cleaning path for faster coverage
- Effective pet stain and odor removal with specialized formulas
- Large 1-gallon tank reduces refilling frequency
- Versatile for stairs, upholstery, and pet beds
Cons:- Heavy to maneuver for some users
- No specific price info available
- Requires regular maintenance
Best for: Homeowners with large carpeted areas or multiple pets needing deep, frequent cleaning
Not ideal for: Small apartments or users seeking a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver cleaner
- Brand:Bissell
- Model Number:3746
- Unit Count:1
- Included Components:Crevice Tool
- Part Number:3746
- UPC:011120272710
- Best Sellers Rank:#2,665 in Home & Kitchen
- Category Rank:#6 in Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Machines
Our verdict“This upright cleaner is best for large spaces or frequent pet-related deep cleaning needs, despite its weight and maintenance requirements.”
BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618
The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam introduces a flexible approach to portable cleaning with its three modes—SteamWash, Steam, and Wash—allowing users to customize cleaning based on the mess. Its 64 oz. tank capacity is larger than many portable options, supporting longer cleaning sessions. The HydroSteam technology enhances stain removal and dirt extraction on carpets, upholstery, and even tiles, surpassing simpler models like the Little Green Mini. Though it’s versatile, it requires switching modes for different tasks, which can slow down cleaning for those wanting quick results. The included tools and formulas add to its value, but ongoing costs for formulas may add up. This cleaner suits users seeking multi-surface versatility with advanced cleaning modes in a portable design.
Pros:- Effective stain and dirt removal with HydroSteam technology
- Multi-surface versatility for carpets, upholstery, and tile
- Fast drying time of about 30 minutes
- Includes multiple cleaning tools and formulas
Cons:- Requires multiple steps for different cleaning modes
- Limited to portable use, not a full-sized machine
- Formulas may add ongoing costs
Best for: Homeowners needing a portable, multi-surface cleaner with versatile modes for various messes
Not ideal for: Those expecting a quick, single-step clean would find the multiple modes cumbersome
- Tank Capacity:64 oz
- Cleaning Modes:3 (SteamWash, Steam, Wash)
- Included Tools:5″ Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This multi-mode portable cleaner is best for users who value versatility and customization over speed and simplicity.”
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner
This compact model stands out for its ability to tackle stains and odors in tight spaces, making it a strong choice for quick cleanups. Compared with the larger BISSELL TurboClean PET, it offers a more portable form factor and easier storage, though it sacrifices capacity and might require more frequent refills. Its 48 oz water tank allows for extended use without constant refilling, and the spray, scrub, and suction functions make stain removal straightforward. However, it’s limited to small or moderate messes; it’s not suited for deep cleaning large carpeted areas or extensive spills. The manual operation means you need to work each stain individually, which can be time-consuming for bigger messes. Still, its reputation from a trusted brand makes it ideal for homeowners who need a reliable, lightweight cleaner for occasional use.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and odors
- Large 48 oz water tank for longer cleaning sessions
- Easy to use with spray, scrub, and suction functions
Cons:- Limited to small or moderate messes
- Requires manual operation for each stain
- Not suitable for large carpet areas
Best for: Homeowners who need quick, effective stain removal for upholstery and carpets in small areas.
Not ideal for: People with large carpeted spaces or frequent heavy-duty cleaning needs, as it lacks capacity for larger jobs.
- Capacity:48 oz
- Brand:BISSELL
- Model:1400B
- Type:Portable Carpet Cleaner
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for those who need a portable, reliable spot cleaner for occasional use on upholstery and small carpets.”
BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948
This upright model is tailored for pet owners needing to combat ground-in dirt and stubborn stains over larger areas. Unlike the Little Green, which excels at spot cleaning, the BISSELL TurboClean PET offers a deeper, more thorough clean with its deep-reach powerbrush and versatile attachments. The inclusion of a self-cleanout tool simplifies maintenance, and the 7 ft hose and spraying crevice tool expand its reach for various messes. It’s especially effective on pet stains and ground-in dirt but may be less versatile for non-pet-related spills, which could limit its appeal for general household cleaning. Its compact size and upright design make it easier to maneuver than bulkier models, but the capacity might be a limiting factor for larger jobs. This cleaner is a solid choice for pet households that need a dedicated, effective deep cleaner.
Pros:- Highly effective on pet stains and ground-in dirt
- Includes versatile tools for different messes
- Self-cleanout feature simplifies maintenance
Cons:- Designed mainly for pet messes, less effective on other stains
- Compact size may limit cleaning capacity
- No specific price info makes value comparison harder
Best for: Pet owners seeking a dedicated tool for removing pet-related stains and ground-in dirt from carpets and upholstery.
Not ideal for: Households without pets or those needing a multi-purpose cleaner for a variety of messes, since it’s optimized primarily for pet-related stains.
- Model:3948
- Type:Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- Includes:7 ft Hose, 4″ Self Cleanout Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool
- Special Features:Self-cleanout tool, Deepreach Powerbrush
Our verdict“This model suits pet owners who want a specialized, easy-to-maintain deep cleaner for frequent pet-related messes.”
How We Picked
Products were evaluated based on cleaning performance, ease of use, build quality, versatility, and value. We prioritized models that excelled in common cleaning scenarios like pet stain removal, quick spot cleaning, and multi-surface versatility. Our ranking also considers customer feedback and how well each model balances features against its price, ensuring selections cater to different user needs—from budget-conscious buyers to pet owners and beginners. The focus was on practical performance and long-term reliability, not just feature lists.Factors to Consider When Choosing Bissell
Choosing the right Bissell depends on your specific cleaning needs, space, and budget. It’s important to consider not just how well a machine cleans but also how easy it is to operate and maintain. Here are key factors that influence your decision and common pitfalls to avoid when selecting a portable or upright cleaner.Cleaning Power and Surface Compatibility
Look for models with strong suction and effective spray mechanisms, especially if you often deal with stubborn stains or pet messes. Some Bissell units are optimized for carpets, while others work well on upholstery and hard floors. Choosing a model that matches your typical cleaning surfaces prevents frustration and ensures better results.
Portability and Size
If quick spot cleaning or mobility is a priority, compact and lightweight models are preferable. However, smaller units may have limited water capacity and cleaning power. Consider how often you’ll need to carry or store the device, balancing ease of use with performance needs.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Features like easy-to-empty tanks, simple controls, and straightforward cleaning processes reduce user fatigue and extend the product’s lifespan. Some models include removable parts or self-cleaning features, which can minimize maintenance time and effort. Avoid overly complicated designs if you prefer a hassle-free cleaning experience.
Special Features and Attachments
Pet owners should look for models with pet hair removal tools or stain-specific attachments. Steam cleaning options offer versatility for multiple surfaces but may require extra care and maintenance. Consider what additional features will genuinely improve your cleaning routine, not just add cost or complexity.
Value and Long-Term Cost
While budget models can save money upfront, they might need more frequent replacement or repairs. Conversely, investing in a higher-quality machine can deliver better performance and durability. Assess warranty coverage, replacement parts costs, and overall longevity before making a decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Bissell portable carpet cleaners effective for pet stains?
Many Bissell portable models, especially those designed specifically for pet owners like the Little Green Max Pet, are highly effective at removing pet stains and hair. They combine strong suction with targeted attachments that help lift stains from carpets and upholstery. However, for very stubborn or deep-set stains, a larger upright model may provide more thorough cleaning, but portable options are generally sufficient for regular maintenance and quick cleanups.
Should I buy a steam Bissell cleaner or a traditional wet/dry model?
Steam cleaners like the Little Green HydroSteam offer the advantage of chemical-free cleaning and multiple surface compatibility, making them ideal for households seeking versatility. Traditional wet/dry models typically deliver stronger suction and are better for heavy-duty carpet cleaning. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize chemical-free cleaning and multi-surface use or need maximum stain removal power for carpets.
How often should I replace or service my Bissell cleaner?
With proper maintenance, Bissell cleaners can last several years. Regularly cleaning filters, tanks, and attachments extends the lifespan. If you notice a decline in suction, persistent odors, or leaks, it’s time to check for worn parts or consider replacing the unit. Investing in a model with accessible parts and good warranty support can also reduce long-term costs.
Is it worth paying more for a pet-specific Bissell model?
Pet-specific models often include features like specialized attachments, stronger suction, and odor control, making them more effective for households with pets. While they tend to cost more, these features can save time and effort by tackling pet messes more efficiently. For pet owners who deal with frequent stains and hair, investing in a pet-oriented model often justifies the higher price.
Can I use a Bissell cleaner on hardwood floors or upholstery?
Many Bissell models are designed for multi-surface use, including hardwood floors and upholstery. Steam cleaners are especially versatile, capable of sanitizing surfaces without chemicals. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for each specific model to ensure safe usage on delicate surfaces, and avoid overly aggressive brushes or high heat that could damage certain materials.
Conclusion
For most users, the Best Overall choice is the BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright, offering a great balance of power, versatility, and pet-friendly features. Budget-conscious buyers or those needing quick spot cleaning may prefer the compact Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum. Pet owners or households with frequent stains will find the Little Green Max Pet invaluable, while those seeking chemical-free cleaning should consider the Little Green HydroSteam. Beginners or casual users will appreciate models with simple controls, while more demanding users should look at the higher-end or specialized options for deeper cleaning or multi-surface versatility.
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