When it comes to cleaning solutions, Bissell stands out for its wide range of models designed for different needs. The Best Overall pick, the Bissell TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, offers powerful cleaning with pet-friendly features, making it ideal for households with pets. The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner is perfect for quick, targeted spot cleaning, while the Compact Vacuum provides a lightweight option for everyday cleaning. However, tradeoffs include size versus power and specialized features versus general use. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of each model and how to choose the right Bissell for your home.
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Key Takeaways
- The top models balance cleaning power with ease of use, but larger units tend to be more effective on heavy-duty tasks.
- Pet-specific models like the TurboClean PET excel at pet hair and stain removal but come at a higher price point.
- Compact and portable options are great for quick cleanups but may lack the power needed for deep cleaning.
- Multi-purpose cleaners like the Little Green series offer versatility but require more frequent maintenance.
- Price differences often reflect added features such as steam cleaning or larger tanks, so prioritize needs over bells and whistles.
| Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum |  | Best for Small Spaces and Light Cleaning | 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 HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618 |  | Best for Versatile, Multi-Surface 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 Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Pet Owners and Small-Scale Stain Removal | Includes: 4” Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse hose, 8oz. formula | Features: Cleans carpets, upholstery, pet beds | Storage: Compact | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948 |  | Best for Pet Messes and Deep Stains | 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 |
| 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 Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Light Stain Removal and Spot Cleaning | Capacity: 48 oz | Brand: BISSELL | Model: 1400B | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Pet Stain and Odor Removal with Heavy-Duty Power | 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 |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum
This model stands out for its impressive suction power packed into a compact, lightweight design, making it ideal for quick cleanups in small apartments or dorms. Compared with larger upright vacuums, the removable extension wand adds versatility for above-floor surfaces, while the bagless system simplifies emptying. However, its limited size means it’s best suited for light cleaning tasks on hard floors and carpets, not heavy-duty or large-area jobs. The powerful suction and scatter-free tech help keep debris contained, but the small capacity and basic design make it less effective for deep cleaning larger spaces.
Pros:- Powerful suction that handles debris efficiently
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Removable extension wand for above-floor cleaning
- Bagless for quick, mess-free emptying
Cons:- Limited to small spaces and light cleaning tasks
- Not suitable for heavy-duty or large-area cleaning
- Designed mainly for hard floors and carpets
Best for: Renters or small household owners needing quick, light cleaning in tight spaces
Not ideal for: Large families or homes with extensive carpeted areas, where frequent deep cleaning is needed
- Weight:Less than 8 pounds
- Extension Wand:Removable with quick-release
- Design:Compact and lightweight
- Bagless:Yes
Our verdict“This vacuum is perfect for those who need a simple, portable solution for quick cleanups in small living spaces.”
BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618
This pick makes the most sense for those wanting a portable, multi-purpose cleaner capable of tackling stains on carpets, upholstery, and tiles. Its HydroSteam technology offers effective stain removal and deep cleaning, surpassing the basic spray-and-vac options like the Little Green Mini. Multiple cleaning modes allow for tailored cleaning, and the fast-drying feature—about 30 minutes—means less waiting after use. The main tradeoff is that, as a portable unit, it cannot replace full-sized carpet cleaners for large areas or heavy-duty cleaning. The need to switch modes and use additional formulas can add complexity and ongoing costs.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and dirt with HydroSteam tech
- Multi-surface versatility for carpets, upholstery, and tile
- Fast drying time of about 30 minutes
- Includes useful tools and stain removal formulas
Cons:- Limited capacity for large or frequent cleaning jobs
- Requires switching modes and formulas, adding complexity
- Ongoing costs for specialized cleaning formulas
Best for: Homeowners seeking a versatile, portable cleaner for occasional stain removal on multiple surfaces
Not ideal for: Heavy or frequent cleaning of large carpeted areas, where a full-sized machine would be more efficient
- Tank Capacity:64 oz
- Cleaning Modes:3 (SteamWash, Steam, Wash)
- Included Tools:5″ Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Ideal for spot cleaning and small jobs, especially when portability and quick drying are priorities.”
BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner
This compact device excels at removing pet stains, odors, and everyday dirt from carpets, upholstery, and pet beds, making it a strong choice for pet owners. Its 4” Tough Stain Tool and HydroRinse self-cleaning hose help maintain hygiene and ease of use. Compared to larger models like the TurboClean PET, it’s less suitable for large areas but shines in tight spaces or targeted cleaning. The small size restricts capacity, and the need to purchase cleaning formulas separately could add up over time. Nonetheless, its portability and effectiveness make it a go-to for quick pet-related messes.
Pros:- Excellent at removing pet stains and odors
- Compact and easy to store
- Supports pet rescue charities with each purchase
- Includes specialized tools for deep cleaning
Cons:- Limited cleaning capacity due to small size
- Requires separate purchase of cleaning formulas
- Not suitable for large or frequent cleaning tasks
Best for: Pet owners needing a portable, effective stain and odor remover for small areas
Not ideal for: Large-scale cleaning or homes with extensive carpeting, where bigger machines are more practical
- Includes:4” Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse hose, 8oz. formula
- Features:Cleans carpets, upholstery, pet beds
- Storage:Compact
- Supports:Pet rescue charities
Our verdict“A perfect lightweight option for pet owners who need quick, effective stain and odor removal in small spaces.”
BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948
This upright model focuses on tackling pet-related messes with a deep-reach powerbrush and versatile tools like a 7 ft hose and spraying crevice tool. Compared to smaller, portable units, the TurboClean PET offers more extensive cleaning capacity and coverage, making it suitable for homes with multiple pets or larger areas. Its self-cleaning tool simplifies maintenance, but since it’s primarily designed for pet stains, it might not perform as well on other types of dirt or heavy-duty cleaning. Its size and weight could pose maneuverability issues for some users.
Pros:- Effective at removing pet stains and ground-in dirt
- Includes versatile tools for various messes
- Self-cleaning feature for easy maintenance
- Deep-reach powerbrush for thorough cleaning
Cons:- Designed mainly for pet messes, limiting versatility on other stains
- Size and weight may reduce ease of maneuvering
- Limited availability of detailed pricing info
Best for: Pet owners dealing with frequent pet stains and ground-in dirt who want a dedicated upright cleaner
Not ideal for: Those who need a lightweight, portable unit for quick spot cleaning or small jobs
- Model:3948
- Type:Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- Includes:7 ft hose, 4″ Self Cleanout Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool
- Special Features:Self-cleanout, Deepreach Powerbrush
Our verdict“This upright excels at pet stain removal and large-area deep cleaning but may be less suitable for quick or infrequent cleaning tasks.”
BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746
This upright cleaner is designed to cover large spaces efficiently with a wide 10-inch cleaning path and a large 1-gallon tank, reducing the need for frequent refills. Its focus on pet stains and odors is complemented by specialized formulas and tools for above-floor cleaning, including stairs and upholstery. Compared to smaller models, the TurboClean Pet XL offers faster coverage and greater capacity, but its weight and size can make it less nimble for some users. It’s best suited for households with extensive carpeting or frequent deep cleaning needs, though some might find it cumbersome to maneuver.
Pros:- Wide 10-inch cleaning path speeds up large-area cleaning
- Effective pet stain and odor removal with specialized formulas
- Large 1-gallon tank reduces refilling interruptions
- Versatile for stairs, upholstery, and pet beds
Cons:- Heavy and potentially cumbersome for some users
- No detailed pricing info available
- Requires regular maintenance of brushes and tanks
Best for: Large households or pet owners needing a deep, wide-area cleaner for carpets and upholstery
Not ideal for: Small apartments or users seeking a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver machine for quick jobs
- 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 machine is ideal for those needing rapid, extensive cleaning of large carpeted areas with pets, despite its weight and size.”
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner stands out for its compact size and ease of use, making it ideal for quick spot cleaning on carpets and upholstery. Unlike larger models, such as the BISSELL TurboClean PET, this cleaner is designed for targeted stain removal rather than extensive cleaning sessions. Its large 48 oz water tank allows for multiple cleanings without constant refilling, and the spray, scrub, and suction functions work together to tackle common stains effectively. However, it’s less suitable for large areas or deep cleaning tasks, requiring manual effort for each stain. Its portability means it’s perfect for quick touch-ups but not for heavy-duty cleaning. This makes it a great choice for pet owners or parents dealing with everyday messes, but less ideal for those needing to clean large carpet areas regularly.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and odors
- Large 48 oz water tank supports longer cleaning sessions
- Simple spray, scrub, and suction operation for ease of use
- Trusted brand with a solid reputation
Cons:- Limited to small or moderate messes, not for big areas
- Manual operation needed for each stain, which can be time-consuming
- Not suitable for deep cleaning large carpeted spaces
Best for: Homeowners who need a portable solution for quick stain and odor removal on carpets and upholstery
Not ideal for: People looking to clean large carpeted areas or handle deep, extensive cleaning jobs regularly
- Capacity:48 oz
- Brand:BISSELL
- Model:1400B
- Type:Portable Carpet Cleaner
- Weight:Approximately 8 lbs
- Power:Manual operation
- Size:Compact, lightweight
Our verdict“This cleaner is best suited for quick, targeted stain removal in small spaces or on upholstery, not for full-room deep cleaning.”
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner is tailored for pet owners needing a powerful, portable tool to handle stubborn pet stains and odors. Compared with the Little Green Multi-Purpose model, this version offers a 30% increase in suction power, making it more effective at deep cleaning embedded pet messes. Its two-tank system ensures separation of clean and dirty water, reducing cross-contamination and improving cleaning results. The included self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool and Pet Hair Removal Tool make maintenance easier and address specific pet-related messes efficiently. Despite its power, it’s still limited to small or moderate messes and requires specific formulas like the PET PRO OXY to perform at its best. Multiple passes may be necessary for very deep or stubborn stains, which can extend cleaning time.
Pros:- 30% more powerful suction than many competitors
- Effective at removing pet stains and odors
- Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool simplifies maintenance
- Includes multiple specialized tools for different cleaning tasks
Cons:- Limited to small or moderate messes due to portable size
- Requires specific cleaning formulas like PET PRO OXY
- May need multiple passes for stubborn stains, increasing cleaning time
Best for: Pet owners who need a portable, powerful solution for removing pet stains and odors from carpets and upholstery
Not ideal for: Users needing to clean large areas or tackle heavy-duty carpet cleaning regularly, as its size restricts extensive 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
- Size:8 oz. trial size BISSELL PET PRO OXY formula
- Weight:Approximately 7.5 lbs
- Battery:Corded operation
- Design:Portable, handheld
Our verdict“This model excels for pet owners needing a strong, portable tool for quick, effective stain and odor removal, not for large-scale cleaning tasks.”
How We Picked
These products were evaluated based on cleaning performance, ease of use, build quality, versatility, and value for money. We compared suction power, tank capacity, weight, and specialized features like pet tools or steam cleaning. The ranking emphasizes practical usability in real home scenarios, favoring models that deliver consistent results with manageable maintenance. Our selections aim to cover a spectrum of needs—from quick spot cleaners to heavy-duty carpet and upholstery cleaners—so readers can identify the best fit for their specific situations.Factors to Consider When Choosing Bissell
Choosing the right Bissell depends on understanding your cleaning needs and the features that matter most. Consider how often you’ll use the device, the types of surfaces, and whether you need pet-specific tools or steam cleaning capabilities. Budget also plays a role, as higher-end models often include advanced features that may not be necessary for every user. Below, I outline key factors to think about to help you make an informed decision.Cleaning Power and Effectiveness
Assess the suction and agitation capabilities of each model, especially if you’re tackling deep stains or heavy traffic areas. Models with stronger suction and larger brushes tend to clean more thoroughly but may be heavier or more expensive. If your main concern is pet hair removal or stubborn stains, prioritize models with specialized tools or enhanced agitation features.
Size, Weight, and Portability
Consider whether you’ll need to carry the cleaner up stairs or use it in tight spaces. Lighter, compact models are easier to maneuver and store but might sacrifice some power or tank capacity. Conversely, larger units with bigger tanks reduce the need for frequent refilling but can be cumbersome to handle.
Versatility and Multi-Surface Use
Some Bissell models are designed solely for carpets, while others include attachments for upholstery, stairs, and hard floors. Think about your typical cleaning routine and choose a model that can adapt to multiple surfaces if needed. Multi-purpose cleaners can save money and space but may come with more complexity or maintenance requirements.
Special Features and Attachments
Features like steam cleaning, pet hair tools, or deep-cleaning modes can add significant value but often at a premium. Decide which features truly benefit your household; for example, steam cleaning is excellent for sanitizing but may be overkill if you primarily need quick spot removal. Attachments for pet hair or upholstery can make a big difference in pet-friendly homes.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Prices vary widely among Bissell models, reflecting features and build quality. Investing in a higher-end model may offer better durability and more advanced features, but a budget-friendly option could be sufficient for light or occasional cleaning. Consider the long-term cost of maintenance and replacement parts when evaluating your options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a steam cleaner necessary for my home?
Steam cleaners provide a chemical-free way to sanitize and deep-clean surfaces, making them ideal for households with allergies or young children. However, not every cleaning task requires steam, and models with steam capabilities tend to be more expensive and heavier. If you need frequent deep sanitation, investing in a steam model makes sense; otherwise, a traditional vacuum or spot cleaner may suffice.
Are pet-specific Bissell models worth the extra cost?
Pet-specific models like the TurboClean PET are designed with features to handle pet hair, stains, and odors more effectively. If you have pets that shed or frequently track in dirt and stains, these models can save time and effort. However, if pets are occasional or if you mostly deal with regular dirt, a standard model with versatile attachments may be more cost-effective.
How often should I replace my Bissell cleaner?
The lifespan of a Bissell cleaner depends on usage and maintenance, but most models last around 3-5 years with proper care. Regularly cleaning filters, tanks, and brushes helps extend the device’s effectiveness. If you notice a significant drop in performance despite maintenance, it might be time to consider a replacement to maintain cleaning quality.
Can I use Bissell cleaners on hardwood floors?
Many Bissell models are suitable for hard floors, especially those with adjustable settings or hard floor attachments. However, some upright models are primarily designed for carpets and rugs, and using them on delicate surfaces could cause scratches. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines and opt for models with specific hard floor settings if you plan to clean multiple surfaces regularly.
Is it better to buy a corded or cordless Bissell model?
Corded models generally offer longer continuous cleaning without worrying about battery life, making them better for larger areas. Cordless models provide greater mobility and ease of use, especially in spots or outdoor areas, but are limited by battery runtime. Choose based on your cleaning volume and whether portability or sustained power is more important for your routine.
Conclusion
For households with pets or heavy-duty cleaning needs, the Bissell TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner offers the best overall performance. If budget is a concern, the Bissell Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner provides solid spot cleaning at a lower price point. Beginners or those with light cleaning needs may prefer the lightweight and easy-to-use Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum. For users seeking versatility, models with multi-surface attachments are ideal, while pet owners should prioritize models with specialized pet tools. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific cleaning routines and household demands.
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