Pet stains require a carpet cleaner that can tackle both visible messes and lingering odors effectively. The best overall pick is the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus, thanks to its deep cleaning power and specialized pet tools. For portability, the BISSELL Little Green Pet Deluxe excels, offering convenience for quick spots on stairs or furniture. Meanwhile, the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe balances performance with affordability, making it a versatile choice. However, tradeoffs include size, weight, and cleaning complexity that vary across models. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each option and what suits your needs best.
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Key Takeaways
- Top-performing models combine deep cleaning power with specialized pet stain tools for the best results.
- Portability is a key factor if you need quick spot cleaning on stairs or furniture; larger models excel for whole-room cleaning.
- Price varies widely; premium options often include advanced features, but budget models can still manage pet stains effectively with proper use.
- Ease of use and maintenance influence long-term satisfaction, especially for those unfamiliar with carpet cleaning machines.
- Most models struggle with heavy, old stains and odors, so consider additional odor-removal products for stubborn pet messes.
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet SmartMix Carpet Cleaner, 38572 |  | Best Overall for Compact, Effective Pet Stain Removal | Brand: Bissell | Model Number: 38572 | Unit Count: 1 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3353 |  | Best for Versatility and Larger Capacity | Tank Capacity: 48 oz | Tools Included: 3″ Tough Stain Tool, Stain Trapper Tool, HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool | Formulas Included: 8 oz trial-size PET Spot and Stain, 8 oz trial-size PET OXY Boost | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine with Pet & Upholstery Tools |  | Best for Deep Cleaning and Heavy-Duty Stains | Number of SpinScrub Brushes: 5 | HeatForce Technology: Yes | Tank Type: Dual tank (clean and dirty water) | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Shark CarpetXpert StainStriker Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, 3 Tools, EX201 |  | Best for Versatile Deep Cleaning with Odor Control | Tools Included: Reversible Bristle Tool, Crevice Tool, Wide Path Tool | Formulas Included: Deep Clean Pro Formula, OXY Multiplier Formula | Tank System: Dual Tank System | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746 |  | Best for Large Areas and Heavy Pet Stains | Brand: Bissell | Model Number: 3746 | Unit Count: 1 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean Pet Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, 3948 |  | Best Overall | Type: Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner | PowerBrush: 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush | Tools Included: 7 ft Hose, 4″ Self-Cleanout Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hoover SmartWash Pet Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine with Spot Chaser Wand |  | Best for Ease of Use | Type: Automatic Carpet Cleaner | Features: Auto-mix, Auto-dry, Spot Chaser Wand, HeatForce Technology | Includes: Pet Tool, 8 ft. hose, accessory storage bag, sample solutions | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Shark StainStriker HairPro Portable Stain Cleaner, 4 Tools, Self-Cleaning PX251 |  | Best Portable Spot Cleaner | Weight: under 9 lbs | Tools Included: Crevice Tool, 3.5″ Stain Eliminator, Hair Extractor, 6oz Deep Clean Pet Formula, 12oz OXY Multiplier Formula | Self-Cleaning: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner |  | Best for Small Spaces | Weight: under 9 lbs | Tools Included: Crevice Tool, 3.5″ Stain Eliminator, 7″ XL Stain Eliminator, Pet Mess Extractor | Formulas: Deep Clean Pro, OXY Multiplier | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine, Lightweight Design |  | Best Budget-Friendly Choice | PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll: Yes | HeatForce Technology: Yes | Sample Solution Included: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner, 3588F |  | Best Overall for Heavy-Duty Pet Stain Removal | Model: 3588F | Type: Carpet Cleaner | Features: Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, CleanShot Pretreater, FreshStart Dirt Tank, MAX and Express Clean Modes, 8ft Hose, includes formulas | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet SmartMix Carpet Cleaner, 38572
This portable option stands out for its automatic formula mixing, which simplifies the cleaning process, especially for pet messes. Compared with the BISSELL Little Green Pet Deluxe, it offers 30% more suction power, making it better suited for stubborn stains, but it’s limited to smaller jobs and needs frequent refills. The self-cleaning stain tool adds convenience, and its eco-friendly donation program appeals to conscious buyers. While its compact size makes it ideal for quick spot cleaning, it’s less suitable for larger areas or extensive pet messes.
Pros:- Automatic formula mixing simplifies operation
- Superior suction compared to similar models
- Effective at removing pet odors and stains
- Self-cleaning stain tool reduces maintenance
Cons:- Limited to small to medium cleaning tasks
- Requires frequent refilling for extended use
Best for: Small households or individuals who need quick, effective cleanups of pet stains in tight spaces
Not ideal for: Large homes or pet owners with frequent heavy-duty messes, as it lacks the capacity for prolonged use
- Brand:Bissell
- Model Number:38572
- Unit Count:1
- Included Components:Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool, 8 oz. trial formula
- UPC:011120274448
- Best Sellers Rank:#982 in Home & Kitchen, #4 in Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Machines
Our verdict“This compact cleaner is perfect for pet owners needing quick, effective spot cleaning with minimal hassle.”
BISSELL Little Green Pet Deluxe Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3353
This model makes sense for pet owners who need a portable cleaner with a larger tank and versatile tools. Compared to the Little Green Max, it offers a 48 oz tank that reduces refilling frequency, but it lacks the automatic formula mixing feature. Its included tools and formulas make it well-suited for cleaning multiple surfaces around the home, from upholstery to carpets. However, the larger tank and added features mean it’s somewhat bulkier and less ideal for quick, on-the-spot cleans in tight spaces.
Pros:- Large 48 oz tank reduces refilling
- Includes multiple tools and formulas for versatility
- Effective at removing pet stains and odors
- Portable design for use on various surfaces
Cons:- Limited tank capacity for very large jobs
- Requires refilling during extensive cleaning sessions
Best for: Pet owners who want a portable, multi-surface cleaner for frequent use around the house
Not ideal for: Individuals seeking a lightweight, quick-use device for small stains only, as it may feel bulky for quick jobs
- Tank Capacity:48 oz
- Tools Included:3″ Tough Stain Tool, Stain Trapper Tool, HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool
- Formulas Included:8 oz trial-size PET Spot and Stain, 8 oz trial-size PET OXY Boost
Our verdict“This pick suits pet owners who need a versatile, larger-capacity cleaner for regular use around the home.”
Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine with Pet & Upholstery Tools
Compared with smaller portable units, the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe offers deep cleaning power with five SpinScrub brushes that tackle embedded pet stains effectively. Its HeatForce technology speeds up drying, making it a good choice for homes where quick turnaround matters. It includes a variety of attachments for upholstery and hard-to-reach areas, but its bulkier design and weight could be a drawback for those with limited storage space or mobility issues. It’s best for households with persistent pet stains that need a thorough approach.
Pros:- Deep cleaning with five SpinScrub brushes
- Faster drying thanks to HeatForce technology
- Versatile attachments for multiple surfaces
- Separate clean and dirty water tanks for convenience
Cons:- Bulky and heavier than portable options
- Requires proprietary Hoover cleaning solutions for best results
- Potentially cumbersome for extended use
Best for: Pet owners dealing with deep-set stains on carpets and upholstery who prioritize deep cleaning and drying speed
Not ideal for: People with limited storage space or those preferring lightweight, easy-to-maneuver cleaners for quick spot cleaning
- Number of SpinScrub Brushes:5
- HeatForce Technology:Yes
- Tank Type:Dual tank (clean and dirty water)
- Hose Length:8 ft
- Includes:Upholstery tool, pet tool, crevice tool, sample cleaning solution
Our verdict“This model excels for those needing a powerful machine to handle stubborn pet stains and deep cleaning tasks regularly.”
Shark CarpetXpert StainStriker Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, 3 Tools, EX201
This machine offers professional-level results with its StainStriker technology and three included tools, making it a strong choice for tackling pet stains on multiple surfaces. Compared to the Hoover PowerScrub, it emphasizes odor elimination and fast drying, yet its weight and size are not specified, which could hinder maneuverability. Its dual-activation stain removal and deep cleaning formulas deliver effective results, but the lack of detailed specs makes it less transparent for buyers seeking precision.
Pros:- Powerful stain and odor removal with StainStriker technology
- Versatile for carpets, upholstery, and stairs
- Fast drying and deep cleaning performance
- Includes multiple tools for different surfaces
Cons:- Weight and size are not specified, potential bulkiness
- Requires specific cleaning solutions for optimal results
- Limited price and detailed specs available
Best for: Pet owners who need a multi-surface cleaner with odor control and deep stain removal capabilities
Not ideal for: Users who prioritize lightweight or compact devices, as size and weight information are not provided
- Tools Included:Reversible Bristle Tool, Crevice Tool, Wide Path Tool
- Formulas Included:Deep Clean Pro Formula, OXY Multiplier Formula
- Tank System:Dual Tank System
Our verdict“Ideal for pet owners seeking a deep-cleaning machine that also tackles odors across various surfaces with professional results.”
BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746
This upright cleaner is designed to cover more ground quickly with a 10-inch wide cleaning path and a large 1-gallon tank, making it suitable for large rooms or extensive pet messes. Compared with the portable options, it speeds up cleaning but can be cumbersome to maneuver due to its size and weight, as some reviews indicate. Its effectiveness on pet stains and allergens is significant, and the included crevice tool extends cleaning above the floor, but regular maintenance is needed to keep it running smoothly.
Pros:- Wide 10-inch cleaning path for fast coverage
- Large 1-gallon tank reduces refilling stops
- Includes tools for above-floor cleaning
- Effective at removing pet dander and stains
Cons:- Can be heavy and difficult to maneuver
- Noisy during operation
- Requires regular maintenance
Best for: Pet owners with large carpets or multiple rooms needing frequent deep cleaning and efficient coverage
Not ideal for: Small apartments or users requiring lightweight, easy-to-store units for quick spot cleaning
- Brand:Bissell
- Model Number:3746
- Unit Count:1
- Included Components:Crevice Tool
- Best Sellers Rank:#2209 in Home & Kitchen
- Category Rank:#6 in Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Machines
Our verdict“This upright is suited for large spaces and heavy pet messes, prioritizing coverage and capacity over portability.”
BISSELL TurboClean Pet Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner, 3948
This compact upright model stands out for its combination of deep cleaning power and ease of use, especially on pet stains and ground-in dirt. Its 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush ensures thorough removal, and the included tools extend cleaning to upholstery and tight spaces. Compared with the Hoover SmartWash Pet, it offers more manual control, but it may require additional formulas for optimal pet stain removal. Its lightweight design makes it suitable for quick cleanups, though the exact weight isn’t specified, which could matter for those with storage concerns.
Best for: Pet owners seeking a versatile, all-in-one cleaner that handles both carpets and upholstery without fuss.
Not ideal for: Those needing a heavy-duty machine for large, heavily soiled areas, as it’s better suited to smaller spaces and quick touch-ups.
- Effective at removing pet stains and ground-in dirt
- Compact, lightweight, easy to maneuver
- Includes versatile tools for above-floor cleaning
- Supports pet rescue efforts with purchase
- No specific weight info provided, which may matter for some users
- May need additional formulas for optimal pet stain removal
Verdict: This model is ideal for pet owners who want a portable, efficient cleaner for regular use on carpets and upholstery.
- Type:Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- PowerBrush:4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush
- Tools Included:7 ft Hose, 4″ Self-Cleanout Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool
- Formulas Included:PRO MAX Clean + Protect, Pet Pro OXY Urine Eliminator
- Weight:Not specified
Hoover SmartWash Pet Automatic Carpet Cleaner Machine with Spot Chaser Wand
The Hoover SmartWash Pet stands out due to its fully automatic operation, making pet stain cleanup straightforward—just push forward to clean and pull back to dry. Its auto-mix and auto-dry features reduce guesswork, and the HeatForce Technology accelerates drying times. While this ease of use is a major plus compared to the manual effort required by the BISSELL TurboClean, it does mean you’ll need to rely on Hoover-specific solutions for best results, and some users might find it heavier to handle during extended cleaning sessions. Its design makes it perfect for busy households that want quick, effective results without fuss.
Best for: Pet owners who prefer a hands-free, automatic cleaning experience with fast drying times.
Not ideal for: Those who want a lightweight, portable unit for small or infrequent cleaning tasks, as the machine can be somewhat heavy.
- Automatic operation reduces user effort
- Effective at removing pet stains and odors
- Fast drying with HeatForce Technology
- Includes multiple accessories for versatile cleaning
- Requires Hoover cleaning solutions for optimal performance
- May be heavy to maneuver for some users
Verdict: This pick makes the most sense for pet owners who prioritize convenience and quick results over portability.
- Type:Automatic Carpet Cleaner
- Features:Auto-mix, Auto-dry, Spot Chaser Wand, HeatForce Technology
- Includes:Pet Tool, 8 ft. hose, accessory storage bag, sample solutions
Shark StainStriker HairPro Portable Stain Cleaner, 4 Tools, Self-Cleaning PX251
The Shark StainStriker HairPro stands out for its powerful stain and odor removal capabilities in a compact, lightweight design. Its dual-activated OXY cleaning system, combined with HairPro Tangle-Free Technology, effectively tackles embedded pet hair and tough stains. Compared to larger upright options like the BISSELL TurboClean, it’s more suitable for quick spot cleaning and small areas, making it perfect for busy households or apartments. However, its small water tank limits continuous cleaning sessions, and it may require specific Shark solutions to perform at its best. Its portability makes it ideal for targeted pet messes, but less so for extensive cleaning jobs.
Best for: Pet owners who need a portable, powerful cleaner for quick stain removal and pet hair extraction.
Not ideal for: Those with large cleanup areas or who prefer a full-sized machine for regular deep cleans.
- Powerful dual-activated OXY system for stains and odors
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Designed to capture embedded pet hair without clogging
- Includes multiple tools for versatile spot cleaning
- Limited water tank capacity restricts continuous use
- Requires Shark-specific cleaning solutions for best results
Verdict: This portable cleaner is best suited for pet owners needing quick, effective spot cleaning on the go.
- Weight:under 9 lbs
- Tools Included:Crevice Tool, 3.5″ Stain Eliminator, Hair Extractor, 6oz Deep Clean Pet Formula, 12oz OXY Multiplier Formula
- Self-Cleaning:Yes
- Power:20X more stain-removing power
Shark StainStriker Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
The Shark StainStriker Portable is designed for quick, targeted cleaning in small spaces, making it suitable for stairs, upholstery, and limited carpet areas. Its strong stain removal technology and included tools—like the 3.5″ and 7″ XL Stain Eliminators—offer flexibility for various pet messes. Compared with the larger Shark HairPro, this model is less heavy and more maneuverable, but its small water capacity limits extended cleaning sessions. It’s an excellent choice for pet owners who need a lightweight, easy-to-handle device for sporadic deep cleaning, though it’s less fitting for larger homes or extensive pet messes.
Best for: Pet owners with small cleaning tasks or those who want a portable, lightweight solution for upholstery and stairs.
Not ideal for: Households with large carpeted areas or frequent extensive cleaning needs, as its small tank and limited range can be restrictive.
- Effective stain and odor removal technology
- Lightweight and highly maneuverable
- Includes multiple tools for different surfaces
- Suitable for quick, targeted cleanups
- Limited tank capacity limits continuous use
- Requires Shark solutions for optimal performance
Verdict: A practical choice for pet owners needing a portable cleaner for small areas and quick spot cleaning.
- Weight:under 9 lbs
- Tools Included:Crevice Tool, 3.5″ Stain Eliminator, 7″ XL Stain Eliminator, Pet Mess Extractor
- Formulas:Deep Clean Pro, OXY Multiplier
Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine, Lightweight Design
The Hoover PowerDash Pet is a budget-conscious option that still delivers solid pet stain and odor removal. Its PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll tackles high-traffic areas effectively, and HeatForce Technology speeds up drying times, making it suitable for busy households. Compared with the Shark StainStriker models, it offers a more affordable price point but fewer tools and accessories. Its lightweight design enhances portability, though it comes with only a sample solution, which could mean additional costs for regular use. This machine makes sense for pet owners who want a straightforward, easy-to-use cleaner without extra frills.
Best for: Pet owners seeking a lightweight, affordable cleaner for regular spot cleaning and small areas.
Not ideal for: Those needing a full-featured, deep cleaning machine for large or heavily soiled areas, as it’s more suited to quick touch-ups.
- Effective at removing pet stains and odors
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Fast drying with HeatForce technology
- Good for small to medium cleaning tasks
- Includes only a sample cleaning solution
- Limited to smaller spaces due to size
Verdict: This model is perfect for pet owners on a budget who need a simple, portable cleaner for routine pet messes.
- PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll:Yes
- HeatForce Technology:Yes
- Sample Solution Included:Yes
- Weight:Lightweight and portable
BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner, 3588F
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus stands out for its exceptional ability to tackle stubborn pet stains and odors, making it ideal for homes with frequent accidents. Compared with the Shark CarpetXpert, it offers more versatile cleaning modes and a stronger stain pretreater, but it also tends to be bulkier and heavier, which can be a hassle for some users. Its dual DirtLifter powerbrushes and CleanShot pretreater deliver deep cleaning, while the multiple modes—MAX and Express—allow for both intensive and quick refreshes. The removable brush cover simplifies maintenance, and it comes with specially formulated cleaning formulas. However, its size can make storage difficult, and the weight might challenge those with limited strength. Overall, this model makes the most sense for pet owners who need a high-capacity, professional-level cleaner that can handle frequent, tough stains without compromise.
Pros:- Exceptional at removing tough pet stains and odors
- Multiple cleaning modes for versatile use
- Removable brush cover simplifies cleaning and maintenance
Cons:- Bulky design makes storage and maneuvering challenging
- Heavy weight may be difficult for some users to handle regularly
Best for: Pet owners with large households or frequent stains who prioritize powerful cleaning and odor removal
Not ideal for: Small apartments or users seeking a lightweight, easy-to-store option due to its bulk and weight
- Model:3588F
- Type:Carpet Cleaner
- Features:Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, CleanShot Pretreater, FreshStart Dirt Tank, MAX and Express Clean Modes, 8ft Hose, includes formulas
- Cleaning Modes:MAX, Express
- Hose Length:8ft
- Includes:Formulas for stain and odor removal
Our verdict“This cleaner is best suited for pet owners who need serious cleaning power and don’t mind the size and weight.”
