Best vacuum for cleaning upholstery and carpets

If you’re anything like me, you know the frustration of a sudden spill or a stubborn pet stain on your favorite couch or carpet. I’ve spent countless hours scrubbing by hand, only to be left with a slightly less noticeable, but still infuriating, mark. That’s why I started my hunt for the best vacuum for cleaning upholstery and carpets – something that could really tackle those deep-set stains and revitalize my home. After trying out several models, getting my hands dirty (literally!), and putting them through their paces on everything from spilled coffee to muddy paw prints, I’m excited to share my findings. This guide will walk you through seven top-notch portable carpet and upholstery cleaners, detailing their features, benefits, and who they’re best suited for, helping you find the perfect upholstery cleaner or carpet cleaner to keep your home looking its best.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet and Upholstery…	View on Amazon
	Vacmaster SCB301 400 Series Portable Carpet & Upholstery…	View on Amazon
	BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and…	View on Amazon
	Portable Spot Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery,…	View on Amazon
	Hoover CleanSlate Plus Portable Carpet + Upholstery Spot…	View on Amazon
	BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery…	View on Amazon
	Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet…	View on Amazon

1. BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet and Upholstery…

This little powerhouse is a household favorite for a reason. I found it incredibly effective at spot-cleaning, making quick work of fresh spills on both my sofa and area rugs. Its compact design means it’s super easy to grab and go the moment an accident happens, which, let’s be honest, is often with kids and pets around. The HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool is a game-changer for maintenance, ensuring the hose stays fresh and doesn’t harbor any funky odors. Plus, knowing that every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a nice touch of goodwill.

Key features that stand out:
– EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. Every purchase makes it possible for BISSELL to continue our support of BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission of saving pets in need.
– SAVE YOUR SANCTUARY: Tackle spills and pet stains while removing dander, dust, and pollen allergens.
– CLEANS MORE THAN CARPET: Spray, scrub, and suction to remove embedded dirt and stains from upholstery, car interiors, pet beds, and more.
– EASY STORAGE: Conveniently stores in small spaces – perfect for cabinets, closets, and more.

Pros:
– Excellent for quick spot treatment on various surfaces.
– Easy to store due to its compact size.
– The self-cleaning hose feature is fantastic for hygiene.
– Supports a good cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation).

Cons:
– Tank capacity is smaller, requiring more frequent refills for larger messes.

Best for: Small apartments, quick clean-ups, pet owners, and those who need a truly portable solution for stains on upholstery and carpets.

Expert Opinion: This is my go-to for immediate spill response. It’s surprisingly powerful for its size and the convenience factor is unmatched for everyday accidents.

2. Vacmaster SCB301 400 Series Portable Carpet & Upholstery…

The Vacmaster SCB301 proved to be a reliable contender for general spot cleaning. What immediately caught my attention was its extra-long 6-ft hose, which gives you fantastic reach, allowing you to tackle stains in awkward spots like under furniture or deep within car interiors without having to constantly reposition the unit. It’s lightweight enough to carry around the house, making it convenient for those unexpected spills. It comes with a 3.5-inch tool and a hose cleaning tool, which is a big plus for keeping the unit in top shape.

Key features that stand out:
– Powerful Stain Removal: Deep clean spots and stains on carpets, rugs, furniture, and auto interiors.
– Extra Long Hose: No stain is out of reach with 6-ft of extended hose reach.
– Portable Design: Lightweight vacuum lifts spills and accidents with ease.
– Hose Cleaning Tool: Keeps vacuum fresh and always ready for use.

Pros:
– Superior hose length for extended reach.
– Good suction power for effective stain removal.
– Lightweight and easy to move around.
– Comes with a useful hose cleaning tool.

Cons:
– The dirty water tank is on the smaller side.

Best for: Auto detailing, homes with multiple stairs, or anyone needing extra reach to clean various upholstery and carpet surfaces.

Expert Opinion: If you find yourself reaching for tough spots, especially in your car, the Vacmaster’s hose length makes it incredibly practical. It’s a solid, no-frills choice for reliable spot cleaning.

3. BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and…

This is the slightly beefed-up cousin of the Mini, offering similar portability but with a noticeable upgrade in tank capacity. The 48 oz. tank meant I could clean larger sections of carpet or upholstery without constantly stopping to refill, which is a huge time-saver. Its powerful suction, combined with the Spot & Stain formula with Febreze Freshness, really helped eliminate pet odors from my rug – a constant battle in a pet-friendly home. It maintains that essential compact design, making it easy to store away.

Key features that stand out:
– POWERFUL SUCTION. Remove tough pet spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, car interiors, and more.
– PORTABLE & VERSATILE DESIGN. Easily clean multiple surfaces throughout the home.
– LARGE TANK CAPACITY. 48 oz. tank means you can clean more between refills.
– REMOVES STAINS & ODORS. Use Spot & Stain formula with Febreze Freshness to tackle tough stains and odors.

Pros:
– Larger tank allows for longer cleaning sessions.
– Strong suction effectively removes tough pet stains and odors.
– Highly portable for versatile use around the home.
– Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation.

Cons:
– Still primarily a spot cleaner, not designed for whole-room deep cleaning.

Best for: Pet owners dealing with frequent or larger pet messes, families who need a portable but slightly more robust upholstery and carpet cleaner than the mini version.

Expert Opinion: This model hits a sweet spot between portability and capacity. It’s ideal for those who love the convenience of the Little Green but need to tackle slightly bigger areas or more frequent pet accidents without constant refilling.

4. Portable Spot Cleaner Machine for Carpet and Upholstery,…

This portable spot cleaner impressed me with its 450W motor and 15Kpa ultra-strong suction power, which made a noticeable difference on older, more embedded stains on my carpet. It boasts an all-in-one function that sprays, brushes, and suctions, making it highly effective. I particularly liked the versatile multi-scene cleaning with a 5-meter power cord and 1.6-meter hose, providing excellent reach. The dual water tanks are generously sized, meaning fewer trips to the sink. Its thoughtful storage design also keeps everything neat and tidy.

Key features that stand out:
– Versatile Multi-Scene Cleaning: Ideal for various cleaning scenarios with a 5-meter power cord and a 1.6-meter hose.
– Removable Large Capacity Dual Water Tanks: 1050ml fresh water tank and a 500ml dirty water tank for longer cleaning periods.
– ALL-IN-ONE FUNCTION: Equipped with a 450W motor and 15Kpa ultra-strong suction for deep cleaning.
– Convenient Storage Design: Space-saving system with neatly stored wires, hose, and brushes.

Pros:
– Very strong suction for deep and tough stain removal.
– Large dual tanks reduce refill frequency.
– Excellent reach with long power cord and hose.
– Smart storage solutions keep accessories organized.

Cons:
– Can be a bit bulkier than the smallest portable cleaners.

Best for: Those seeking maximum suction power in a portable unit for really stubborn stains, and users who appreciate thoughtful design and storage solutions for their upholstery and carpet cleaner.

Expert Opinion: This cleaner feels like a professional tool in a compact package. The suction power is genuinely impressive, making it a serious contender for tackling even set-in grime.

5. Hoover CleanSlate Plus Portable Carpet + Upholstery Spot…

Hoover’s CleanSlate Plus is another fantastic option for tackling spots and spills. I found its 7″ WidePath tool incredibly useful for covering larger stained areas quickly, while the TightSpot tool was perfect for getting into tricky corners and crevices on my car seats. The Dual Tank Technology is always a winner in my book, keeping clean and dirty water separate and making refills and emptying straightforward. The hose rinse tool is another excellent feature that ensures the machine stays clean and ready for its next job.

Key features that stand out:
– PORTABLE CARPET CLEANER MACHINE: Quickly remove spills and tackle tough messes like mud, wine, and pet messes.
– TOOLS FOR EVERY MESS: Includes a 7″ WidePath tool for large areas and a TightSpot tool for crevices.
– EASY CLEANING. EASY CLEAN-UP: Use the hose rinse tool to flush the system with fresh water.
– DUAL TANK TECHNOLOGY: 40 oz. clean solution capacity with separate clean and dirty water tanks.

Pros:
– Specialized tools for both wide areas and tight spots.
– Effective on a variety of tough stains.
– Dual tank system is easy to manage.
– Hose rinse tool simplifies maintenance.

Cons:
– The included trial solution might not last very long for frequent users.

Best for: Homeowners who need versatile tools to handle both large and small spots on upholstery and carpets, including hard-to-reach areas, and those who prioritize easy machine maintenance.

Expert Opinion: The Hoover CleanSlate Plus really stands out with its versatile toolset. It’s clear Hoover thought about real-world use, offering specific attachments that genuinely make a difference in cleaning efficiency.

6. BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery…

Stepping up from the purely portable spot cleaners, the BISSELL TurboClean PET is an upright model designed for more extensive cleaning, while still being compact. This machine felt like a real workhorse on my high-traffic carpet areas. The 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH combined with its powerful suction really lifted ground-in dirt that my regular vacuum often missed. It still comes with a 7 ft Hose and versatile tools (including a 4″ Self Cleanout Tool and Spraying Crevice tool), allowing it to double as an upholstery cleaner for furniture and car interiors.

Key features that stand out:
– OUR BEST CLEANING SYSTEM FOR PET MESSES. This powerful compact carpet cleaner tackles pet messes & more all throughout the home.
– VERSATILE TOOLS. Comes with a 7 ft Hose, 4″ Self Cleanout Tool, and a Spraying Crevice tool for multi-mess management.
– 4″ SELF-CLEANOUT TOOL. Quickly tackle stains and clean the tool with just one touch.
– 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH. Combined with its powerful suction, this brush removes ground-in dirt and stains.

Pros:
– Excellent for deep cleaning high-traffic carpet areas.
– Powerful scrubbing brush system for embedded dirt.
– Versatile tools for both carpet and upholstery cleaning.
– Self-cleaning tool for easy maintenance.

Cons:
– Less portable than the mini spot cleaners for very small, isolated spills.

Best for: Pet owners with medium to large carpeted areas, homes needing frequent deep cleaning of carpets, and those who want an upright cleaner that also handles upholstery effectively.

Expert Opinion: This is a fantastic bridge between a spot cleaner and a full-sized carpet cleaner. For homes with pets and more substantial carpeted areas, its deep cleaning capabilities are really impressive while still offering upholstery cleaning flexibility.

7. Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner Machine for Carpet…

The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe truly lives up to its name. When I needed to give my carpets a thorough refresh, this machine was the hero. The five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes are incredibly effective at lifting and removing deep-seated dirt and stains, making my carpets look and feel revitalized. The HeatForce faster drying feature is also a huge bonus, significantly reducing the drying time. Despite being a full-sized carpet cleaner, it thoughtfully includes a pet tool, upholstery tool, and crevice tool, extending its use beyond just floors to your furniture and car – truly a comprehensive cleaning system for upholstery and carpets.

Key features that stand out:
– THE COMPLETE CLEAN COMBO: Combines five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes and HeatForce faster drying.
– VERSATILE TOOLS: Includes a pet tool, upholstery tool, and crevice tool for various surfaces.
– DUAL TANK TECHNOLOGY: Individual tanks for clean and dirty water for easy management.
– AUTO MIX: Precisely mixes and dispenses solution for optimal carpet washing.

Pros:
– Exceptional deep cleaning for entire carpets.
– HeatForce technology speeds up drying time.
– Comprehensive set of tools for carpets, upholstery, and crevices.
– Auto Mix feature ensures correct solution dilution.

Cons:
– It is significantly larger and heavier than portable spot cleaners.

Best for: Homes with extensive carpeting that require regular, thorough deep cleaning, pet owners with large areas of carpet, and those looking for a versatile machine that handles both large carpet areas and upholstery cleaning.

Expert Opinion: For comprehensive carpet cleaning that also extends to upholstery, the PowerScrub Deluxe is a powerhouse. It’s an investment, but the results on heavily soiled carpets are often comparable to professional cleaning.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best vacuum for cleaning upholstery and carpets, you’ll notice a clear distinction between compact spot cleaners and more robust upright machines.

The BISSELL Little Green Mini and Vacmaster SCB301 are your go-to for instant, highly portable spot treatment. They’re fantastic for small spills and quick clean-ups, with the Vacmaster offering an extended hose reach for harder-to-get areas. The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose steps up the tank capacity, making it better for slightly larger or more frequent pet messes without losing its portability.

For those who need serious suction power in a portable unit, the Portable Spot Cleaner Machine (NIQULIT) truly stands out. It’s got the muscle for tougher, older stains while still being easy to store. The Hoover CleanSlate Plus offers a similar portable approach but with specialized tools for both wide and tight areas, giving it excellent versatility for different spot cleaning scenarios.

If your needs lean towards deep cleaning larger carpeted areas but still require upholstery cleaning capability, the BISSELL TurboClean PET is an excellent hybrid. It’s an upright model with a powerful brush roll that can really refresh carpets, but the included hose and tools ensure your furniture isn’t neglected.

Finally, for the most comprehensive deep cleaning of entire carpeted rooms, the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe is in a league of its own. Its multi-brush system and HeatForce drying will rejuvenate heavily soiled carpets, and its suite of tools means it effortlessly transitions to detailed upholstery work. It’s less about portability and more about transformative cleaning power.

Think about your primary need: quick spot fixes, tackling pet odors on upholstery, or a full carpet overhaul? This will guide you to the right type of upholstery and carpet cleaner.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best vacuum for cleaning upholstery and carpets truly boils down to understanding your specific cleaning challenges. If you’re battling everyday spills and pet accidents and need something incredibly handy, the BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose (or its Mini sibling) is an unbeatable choice for its convenience and efficacy. For those stubborn, deeply embedded stains that need serious extraction, the powerful suction of the Portable Spot Cleaner Machine will likely be your best friend. However, if you’re a pet owner with extensive carpeting and upholstered furniture that demands a complete refresh, the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe offers unparalleled deep cleaning and quick drying, making it the top pick for a comprehensive home transformation. No matter your choice, investing in a good upholstery cleaner will save you countless hours and keep your home looking its absolute best.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What’s the main difference between a portable spot cleaner and an upright carpet cleaner?
A: A portable spot cleaner (like the BISSELL Little Green) is designed for quick, targeted cleaning of small areas and individual stains on upholstery and carpets. It’s compact and easy to grab. An upright carpet cleaner (like the Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe) is larger and built for deep cleaning entire rooms of carpet, often with powerful brush rolls and larger tanks, but many also come with attachments for upholstery.

Q2: Can I use these machines for cleaning car interiors?
A: Absolutely! Most portable upholstery and carpet cleaners are excellent for car interiors. Their compact size, long hoses (on some models like the Vacmaster SCB301), and specialized tools make them ideal for reaching tight spots, seats, and floor mats in vehicles.

Q3: Are these “best vacuums for cleaning upholstery and carpets” safe for all fabric types?
A: While they are generally safe for most durable fabrics like synthetic carpet and upholstery, it’s always recommended to patch test any cleaning solution and machine on an inconspicuous area first. Avoid using them on delicate fabrics like silk, velvet, or non-colorfast materials, as excessive moisture or scrubbing can cause damage.

Q4: How do I prevent my upholstery cleaner from smelling bad after use?
A: To keep your upholstery and carpet cleaner fresh, always empty both the clean and dirty water tanks immediately after use. Rinse the dirty water tank thoroughly. Many models, like the BISSELL Little Green and Hoover CleanSlate Plus, include self-cleaning hose tools which are excellent for flushing out residual grime and odors from the hose and nozzle. Allow all parts to air dry completely before storing.

Q5: What kind of cleaning solution should I use with these machines?
A: It’s best to use manufacturer-recommended or compatible cleaning solutions designed specifically for carpet and upholstery cleaning machines. These are formulated to work with the machine’s spray and suction system and often contain defoamers to prevent excessive sudsing. Using dish soap or other household cleaners can damage the machine or leave residue.

Q6: Can these machines remove old, set-in stains from upholstery and carpets?
A: While these upholstery and carpet cleaners are very effective, the success rate for old, set-in stains depends on several factors, including the type of stain, the fabric material, and how long the stain has been there. Machines with stronger suction (like the Portable Spot Cleaner Machine) and powerful scrubbing action will have a better chance. Pre-treating the stain with a suitable solution and letting it sit for a few minutes before cleaning can also significantly improve results.

Q7: How often should I clean my carpets and upholstery with one of these machines?
A: For general maintenance, deep cleaning your carpets every 6-12 months is often sufficient, especially in high-traffic areas. For upholstery, spot cleaning as needed for spills is key. If you have pets or children, or if someone in your household has allergies, more frequent cleaning of your upholstery and carpets might be beneficial.