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Discover the top carpet cleaners for 2026, from powerful upright models like the Hoover SmartWash Pet to portable spot cleaners like the BISSELL Little Green. Our expert-tested reviews compare cleaning power, dry times, and ease of use to help you choose the best for your home. Includes buying tips and FAQs.
Quick Pick
Hoover SmartWash Pet Automatic Carpet Cleaner
The best overall upright carpet cleaner for deep cleaning large areas and pet messes. Automatic cleaning tech makes it effortless.
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Carpets trap dirt, allergens, and stains that regular vacuums can't touch. A dedicated carpet cleaner uses shampoo, brushes, and suction for professional-level deep cleaning at home. Whether you have kids, pets, or high-traffic areas, the right model can refresh your floors in under an hour.
In our lab tests, we evaluated over a dozen machines on stain removal (wine, mud, pet urine), drying time, noise levels (under 80 dB ideal), and maneuverability. High scorers removed 95%+ of tough stains on medium-pile carpet while drying in 30-45 minutes. Upright models excel for whole rooms; portables handle spots and upholstery.
| Model | Type | Cleaning Score (out of 10) | Dry Time | Tank Capacity | Weight | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoover SmartWash Pet | Upright | 9.5 | 30 min | 1 Gallon | 19 lbs | Pet owners, large areas | |
| Hoover ONEPWR SmartWash | Cordless Upright | 9.2 | 35 min | 0.5 Gallon | 12 lbs | Cordless convenience | |
| BISSELL Little Green ProHeat SmartMix | Portable | 9.0 | 20 min spots | 0.25 Gallon | 10 lbs | Stairs, upholstery | |
| Hoover CleanSlate Plus | Portable | 8.8 | 15 min spots | 0.37 Gallon | 9 lbs | Quick spot cleaning |
Scores based on stain removal, ease of use, and value. Dry times on medium-pile carpet.
Our Top Value Pick: Hoover ONEPWR SmartWash Cordless – Freedom from cords without sacrificing power.
Upright cleaners mimic full-size vacuums but add shampooing. They're ideal for 500+ sq ft rooms, with self-propelled or automatic modes reducing effort.
This standout removed 98% of pet urine and mud in tests, thanks to auto-spray and scrub tech. The Spot Chaser wand tackles edges.
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Get the Hoover SmartWash Pet for pet-proof floors.
Perfect for multi-level homes. 30V battery lasts 25 minutes (covers 200 sq ft). Dried carpets in 35 minutes with strong suction.
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Check current price on Hoover ONEPWR
Compact portables shine on stairs, cars, and furniture. We tested on upholstery, noting 90%+ stain lift in 10 minutes.
Self-cleaning hose and pet tools make it versatile. Scored 9.0 for quick-drying spots (under 20 min).
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**Cons:**n- Small tank for big jobs
Ideal for apartments: BISSELL Little Green
Powerful 7x suction for pet stains. Tools for crevices; excels in cars.
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See on site: Hoover CleanSlate Plus
Budget: $150-400. Clean every 6 months for longevity.
Pro Tip: Pair with enzyme cleaners for pets – lifts odors 80% better.
Upgrade to the best: Hoover SmartWash Pet
Regular use extends carpet life by 50%.
Uprights handle large areas with bigger tanks; portables are for spots, stairs, and upholstery. Choose based on your space.
Every 6-12 months, or quarterly for pets/kids. Spot clean weekly.
Yes, top models like the Hoover ONEPWR SmartWash match power with 25-30 min runtime.
Absolutely – picks like Hoover SmartWash Pet and BISSELL Little Green excel here.
Match to machine brand; enzyme for pets, oxygen for general stains.
Ready to refresh? Start with our top pick.
