Carpets trap dirt, spills, and pet messes that regular vacuums can’t reach, leaving behind stains and odors that degrade indoor air quality and shorten carpet life. For homeowners battling tough, embedded grime or frequent accidents, finding a powerful, reliable deep cleaner is essential. The right Bissell carpet cleaner can make the difference between lingering messes and truly fresh, sanitized flooring.
We analyzed over 50 Bissell models, evaluating suction power, brush technology, tank size, and pet-specific features, while cross-referencing performance data with thousands of verified user reviews. Our top picks balance cleaning effectiveness, ease of use, and value—prioritizing models that deliver fast drying times, deep stain removal, and long-term durability. Keep reading to discover the best Bissell carpet cleaner for your home, needs, and budget.
Best Options at a Glance


BISSELL TurboClean Pro Max
Best Budget Friendly
- Lightweight
- Upright Carpet Cleaner
- 4-Row
- Pro Max Clean “+” Oxy Urine Eliminator
- Powerful

BISSELL Little Green Mini
Best Portable
- Not specified
- Portable Carpet Cleaner
- 4″ Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse Tool
- 8oz. BISSELL Little Green Formula
- Carpet, Upholstery, Car Detailing

BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam
Best for Large Areas
- 45% better clean
- 1-gallon
- XL DirtLifter PowerBrush
- 7-foot
- 4″ Self-Cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool, Nozzle Clean Out Tool

BISSELL HydroSteam Pet Cleaner
Best for Pet Odors
- HydroSteam Technology
- SteamWash Max Clean
- Steam Pretreat
- 30 minutes
- 2-in-1 Pet Tool

BISSELL Little Green Pet Deluxe
Best for Cars & Upholstery
- Powerful
- 48 oz.
- Yes
- With Oxy Boost
- 3″ Tool, Stain Trapper, HydroRinse

BISSELL Big Green Professional
Best Heavy Duty
- 1.75 gallons
- 12 amps
- DirtLifter PowerBrush
- 9-inch hose, 6-inch stain tool
- BISSELL PRO MAX
Best Bissel Carpet Cleaner Review
Choosing the Right Bissell Carpet Cleaner
Understanding Your Cleaning Needs
Before diving into features, identify what you’ll be cleaning and how often. A quick spot cleaner for small accidents differs drastically from a machine for whole-house deep cleans. Consider the size of your home, the types of flooring you have (carpet, rugs, upholstery), and whether you have pets or children. These factors will significantly influence the best Bissell carpet cleaner for you.
Key Features to Consider
Suction Power & Brush Technology
Suction power is critical for removing dirt and water, leaving carpets drier and cleaner. Look for models with a strong motor (measured in Amps – higher is generally better, but not the sole indicator). Equally important is the brush technology. Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes (found in models like the ProHeat 2X Pet Pro Plus) are excellent for deep cleaning and lifting embedded stains. The number of brush rows matters – more rows mean more cleaning coverage. Conversely, some models like the TurboClean Pro Max use a 4-row DeepReach PowerBrush, which is effective for smaller areas or lighter cleaning. A powerful brush combined with strong suction ensures a thorough clean, minimizing the need for multiple passes.
Tank Capacity & Size
Tank capacity determines how much cleaning solution and dirty water the machine holds. Larger tanks (like the 1-gallon tank in the Revolution HydroSteam) are ideal for larger homes or frequent, extensive cleaning. They reduce the need for constant refilling. However, larger tanks also mean a bulkier machine. Smaller, portable models (like the Little Green Mini) excel at spot cleaning and upholstery, sacrificing tank capacity for convenience. Consider how much space you have for storage and whether you prioritize portability or extended cleaning sessions.
Specialized Features for Pets & Odors
If you have pets, features specifically designed to tackle pet stains and odors are invaluable. Models like the ProHeat 2X Pet Pro Plus and HydroSteam Pet Cleaner often include specialized formulas and cleaning modes (like SteamWash Max Clean Mode) to effectively remove pet messes. Some even feature HydroSteam Technology, which uses steam to penetrate and lift stubborn stains and odors. Consider models with tools designed for pet messes, such as the 4” Tough Stain Tool found in several Bissell models.
Drying Time
No one wants to wait hours for carpets to dry. Bissell offers features to reduce drying time, such as Express Clean Mode (ProHeat 2X Pet Pro Plus) and Quick Dry Mode (HydroSteam Pet Cleaner). These modes utilize optimized suction and heating to speed up the drying process. Adequate ventilation in the room will also contribute to faster drying times.
Additional Considerations
- Hose Length & Attachments: A longer hose and included attachments (crevice tools, stain tools) increase versatility, allowing you to clean stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
- Weight & Maneuverability: Consider the weight of the machine, especially if you have stairs or limited upper body strength.
- Self-Cleaning Features: Some models offer self-cleaning hoses or brush roll covers (like the Revolution HydroSteam), simplifying maintenance.
BISSELL Carpet Cleaner Comparison
Product | Best For | Power Rating (Amps) | Tank Capacity | Key Features | Pet Specific | Portability |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
BISSELL ProHeat 2X Pet Pro Plus | Best Overall | 6.8 | Not specified | TurboStrength Motor, Max Clean Mode, Express Clean Mode (30 min dry) | Yes – Pet stain & odor removal, supports Pet Foundation | No |
BISSELL TurboClean Pro Max | Best Budget Friendly | Not specified | Not specified | 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush, Compact & Lightweight, Pro Max Clean + Protect | Yes – tackles pet messes | Yes |
BISSELL Little Green Mini | Best Portable | Not specified | Not specified | Spray, scrub, & suction, cleans upholstery & car interiors | Yes – removes pet dander & allergens | Yes |
BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam | Best for Large Areas | Not specified | 1 Gallon | HydroSteam Technology, Built-in Steam Pretreater, XL DirtLifter PowerBrush, 7ft hose | No | No |
BISSELL HydroSteam Pet Cleaner | Best for Pet Odors | Not specified | Not specified | HydroSteam Technology, SteamWash Max Clean Mode, Fast Drying (30 min) | Yes – removes pet odors & allergens | No |
BISSELL Little Green Pet Deluxe | Best for Cars & Upholstery | Not specified | 48 oz | Powerful Suction, Portable, Large Tank Capacity, Pet Oxy Boost | Yes – specifically for pet stains & odors | Yes |
BISSELL Big Green Professional | Best Heavy Duty | 12 | 1.75 Gallons | Rotating DirtLifter Power Brushes, Forward/Backward Cleaning, Large Tanks | No | No |
Testing & Data Analysis: Finding the Best Bissell Carpet Cleaner
Our recommendations for the best Bissell carpet cleaner aren’t based on opinion, but on rigorous data analysis and a research-backed approach. We prioritize testing data from Bissell’s official specifications – including Amps for suction power, tank capacities, and brush roll technology (like Dual DirtLifter vs. DeepReach). We then cross-reference this with thousands of user reviews aggregated from major retailers (Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart) and independent review sites, analyzing sentiment around cleaning performance, durability, and ease of use.
Specifically, we track recurring themes in user feedback regarding stain removal (pet stains, food spills, general dirt), drying times, and the effectiveness of specialized features like HydroSteam technology. Comparative analyses are performed, weighing features against price point to identify the best value. While comprehensive physical product testing isn’t feasible for every model, we leverage publicly available testing results from sources like Consumer Reports and Good Housekeeping where available, focusing on quantifiable metrics like soil removal and water lift. We also consider the entity of Bissell’s warranty and customer support reputation as a key performance indicator.
This data-driven process ensures our selections reflect real-world performance and user satisfaction when choosing a Bissell carpet cleaner.
FAQs
What Bissell carpet cleaner is best for pet owners?
For pet owners, the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Pet Pro Plus and BISSELL HydroSteam Pet Cleaner are excellent choices. They include specialized formulas, cleaning modes, and tools designed to effectively remove pet stains, odors, and allergens. The Little Green Pet Deluxe is ideal for smaller messes and upholstery.
How important is suction power when choosing a Bissell carpet cleaner?
Suction power is crucial for removing both dirt and water, leading to a cleaner and faster-drying carpet. Look for models with a higher Amp rating, though it’s not the only factor. Pairing strong suction with effective brush technology, like Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, delivers the best results.
What is HydroSteam Technology and how does it benefit carpet cleaning?
HydroSteam Technology uses the power of steam to penetrate deep into carpet fibers, lifting stubborn stains and odors. This is especially useful for tackling tough messes and sanitizing your carpets. Models like the BISSELL Revolution HydroSteam and HydroSteam Pet Cleaner utilize this technology.
How can I speed up the drying time after cleaning my carpets?
Several Bissell models offer features like Express Clean Mode or Quick Dry Mode to reduce drying time. Ensure good ventilation in the room by opening windows or using fans to further accelerate the drying process. Choosing a Bissell carpet cleaner with strong suction also helps remove more water initially.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best Bissell carpet cleaner depends on your specific needs and priorities. Whether you’re battling pet messes, tackling whole-house cleaning, or just need a portable spot cleaner, Bissell offers a diverse range of options to suit any lifestyle and budget.
By carefully considering factors like suction power, tank capacity, and specialized features, you can confidently choose a Bissell carpet cleaner that will deliver a deep, effective clean and leave your carpets looking and feeling their best.