If you’re searching for a reliable cleaning machine from Bissell, you’re likely looking for a balance of power, versatility, and value. The Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner stands out as the best overall for its portability and effective stain removal. For pet owners, the Bissell TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948 offers specialized cleaning power, while the Bissell 2033 Featherweight Stick Vacuum is ideal for quick, lightweight cleaning on hard floors. Each option comes with tradeoffs—like size, depth of cleaning, or price—that make some better suited to specific needs. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of these models to find the right fit for your cleaning routine.
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Key Takeaways
- The most versatile models combine portability with effective deep cleaning, making them suitable for a variety of surfaces.
- Pet-specific cleaners excel at removing pet hair and stains but often come with higher price tags or bulkier designs.
- Lighter, stick-style vacuums are best for quick cleanups on hard floors but may lack deep cleaning power for carpets.
- Price often correlates with features—more expensive options tend to include advanced attachments or larger tanks.
- Size and weight are critical factors; compact models are easier to store but might sacrifice capacity or power.
| BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Spot Cleaning and Small Stains | Capacity: 48 oz | Brand: BISSELL | Model: 1400B | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948 |  | Best for Pet Messes and Ground-In Dirt | 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 2033 Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom with Crevice Tool for Hard Floors and Carpets, Blue |  | Best for Quick, Everyday Surface Cleaning | Weight: Less than 4 pounds | Cord Length: 15 feet | Dirt Cup Capacity: 0.67 liters | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618 |  | Best for Multi-Surface Versatility and Stain Removal | 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 Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Heavy Pet Stains and Tough Spots | Power: 30% more powerful than competitors | Tank Technology: Two-tank system | Included Tools: Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746 |  | Best Overall for Deep Cleaning and Pet Odors | Brand: Bissell | Model Number: 3746 | Unit Count: 1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Spot Cleaning and Small Spaces | Includes: 4” Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, 8oz. BISSELL Little Green Formula | Features: Cleans carpets, upholstery, car interiors, pet beds | Storage: Compact for small spaces | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum |  | Best for Light, Quick Cleanups in Small Spaces | Weight: Less than 8 pounds | Extension Wand: Removable with quick-release | Design: Compact and lightweight | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Portable Carpet Cleaner stands out as the go-to option for quick, targeted stain removal on carpets and upholstery. Its large 48 oz water tank allows for multiple small cleanups without constant refilling, making it ideal for families dealing with frequent spills. Compared to larger, full-sized cleaners, this model sacrifices capacity and power for portability and ease of use. It excels at removing odors and stains in confined spaces but isn’t designed for extensive cleaning tasks. Manual operation for each stain means more effort on large or multiple messes, which can be limiting. This pick is best suited for homeowners needing a reliable, portable stain remover rather than a replacement for a full-sized carpet cleaner.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and odors
- Large water tank for extended use
- Simple spray, scrub, and suction functions
- Trusted brand reputation
Cons:- Limited to small or moderate messes
- Requires manual effort for each stain
- Not suitable for large surface areas
Best for: Homeowners who frequently deal with small stains and need a portable, easy-to-use device
Not ideal for: People with large carpeted areas or heavy, ground-in dirt that require deep cleaning
- Capacity:48 oz
- Brand:BISSELL
- Model:1400B
- Type:Portable Carpet Cleaner
Our verdict“This is the best choice for quick, targeted stain removal in small spaces, especially for busy households.”
BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948
The BISSELL TurboClean PET 3948 makes sense for pet owners needing a dedicated tool for pet stains and ground-in dirt. Its upright design and included tools like the deep-reach Powerbrush make it easier to tackle stubborn pet messes across multiple surfaces. Compared with smaller, portable units like the Little Green, this model offers more capacity and thorough cleaning power. However, it’s primarily optimized for pet-related stains, so it might underperform on other types of messes. The absence of advanced features like self-cleaning or multi-surface modes makes it less versatile for general carpet cleaning. This cleaner is best for those who want a dedicated, effective pet mess solution without the bulk of larger upright models.
Pros:- Effective at removing pet stains and ground-in dirt
- Includes versatile tools for different messes
- Self-cleanout feature simplifies maintenance
- Deep-reach Powerbrush for thorough cleaning
Cons:- Less effective on non-pet stains
- Limited capacity compared to large upright models
- No multi-surface cleaning modes
Best for: Pet owners who need a reliable, focused cleaner for pet stains and ground-in dirt
Not ideal for: People without pets or those needing a general-purpose cleaner for diverse stains
- 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 is a solid choice for pet owners seeking a dedicated, effective cleaner for pet-related messes.”
Bissell 2033 Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom with Crevice Tool for Hard Floors and Carpets, Blue
The Bissell 2033 Featherweight excels as a lightweight, versatile vacuum perfect for fast cleanups on hard floors and carpets. Its 3-in-1 design allows conversion from a stick vacuum to a handheld or stair cleaner, offering flexibility for various small chores. Compared with larger upright cleaners, the Featherweight prioritizes maneuverability and ease of storage, but it’s less suited for deep cleaning or heavy debris. Its corded operation limits mobility, and the small dirt cup requires frequent emptying, which might be inconvenient for larger tasks. This model is best for those who need a quick, lightweight solution for regular surface cleaning in tight or multi-level spaces.
Pros:- Lightweight and highly maneuverable
- Versatile 3-in-1 design for multiple cleaning scenarios
- Includes attachments like a crevice tool
- Bagless design for easy disposal
Cons:- Limited to surface dirt and debris
- Corded design restricts movement
- Small dirt cup needs frequent emptying
Best for: Homeowners seeking a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver vacuum for daily surface cleaning
Not ideal for: Those requiring deep cleaning or handling large debris regularly
- Weight:Less than 4 pounds
- Cord Length:15 feet
- Dirt Cup Capacity:0.67 liters
- Type:Bagless Vacuum
Our verdict“This vacuum is perfect for quick, everyday cleanups on hard floors and low-pile carpets, especially in tight spaces.”
BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618
The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam 3618 offers a notable edge over basic portable cleaners by combining HydroSteam technology with multiple cleaning modes. Its ability to handle carpets, upholstery, and surfaces like tile makes it a flexible choice for multi-surface cleaning. Compared with models like the Little Green Multi-Purpose, this unit emphasizes chemical-free steam cleaning options, which can be more effective for tougher stains. However, it’s limited in capacity and portability compared to larger machines, making it less suitable for extensive cleaning sessions. The need to switch between modes adds some complexity, but the quick-drying feature helps avoid long wait times. It’s best for homeowners looking for a portable, versatile cleaner that tackles a variety of messes with steam power.
Pros:- Effective stain and dirt removal with HydroSteam technology
- Multi-surface versatility for carpets, upholstery, and tile
- Fast drying time of about 30 minutes
- Multiple cleaning modes for different needs
Cons:- Limited capacity, not for large cleaning tasks
- Requires switching modes, which can be cumbersome
- Includes formulas that may increase ongoing costs
Best for: Homeowners wanting a portable, multi-surface cleaner with steam options for stain removal
Not ideal for: People needing a full-sized, heavy-duty carpet cleaner for large or deep cleaning jobs
- Tank Capacity:64 oz
- Cleaning Modes:3 (SteamWash, Steam, Wash)
- Included Tools:5″ Tough Stain Tool, Multi-Surface Tool
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“This cleaner is ideal for those who want a portable, multi-surface solution with fast drying and steam cleaning features.”
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet is designed specifically for pet owners facing stubborn stains and odors. Its 30% more powerful suction compared to similar portable models ensures deeper cleaning of pet messes, while the self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool simplifies ongoing maintenance. Compared to the TurboClean PET, the Max Pet emphasizes power and specialized pet formulas, making it more effective on tough pet-related stains. However, its small size limits its capacity, meaning it’s better suited to moderate messes rather than large or continuous cleaning tasks. Use this if pet stains are a frequent headache, but don’t expect it to be a full-scale solution for extensive home cleaning.
Pros:- Powerful suction for deep cleaning
- Effective pet stain removal with specialized formulas
- Self-cleaning stain tool simplifies maintenance
- Includes tools for different pet messes
Cons:- Limited to small or moderate messes
- Requires specific cleaning formulas
- May need multiple passes for stubborn stains
Best for: Pet owners needing a portable, high-suction cleaner for tough pet stains and odors
Not ideal for: People without pets or those with large cleaning areas needing more capacity
- Power:30% more powerful than competitors
- Tank Technology:Two-tank system
- Included Tools:Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool
- Size:8 oz. trial size BISSELL PET PRO OXY formula
Our verdict“This portable cleaner is best for pet owners who need a powerful, easy-to-maintain solution for tough pet stains and odors.”
BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746
The BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL stands out for its wide 10-inch cleaning path, which significantly reduces cleaning time compared to smaller models like the Bissell CleanView Compact. Its capacity to tackle pet stains and odors with specialized formulas makes it ideal for homes with furry friends, and the large 1-gallon tank minimizes frequent refills. However, the device’s weight can make maneuvering challenging, especially on stairs or tight spaces, and regular maintenance of brushes and tanks is necessary to keep it performing at its best. Compared to more portable options, this model offers superior cleaning power but demands more effort to handle.
Pros:- Wide 10-inch cleaning path for faster coverage
- Effective pet stain and odor removal with specialized formulas
- Large 1-gallon tank reduces refilling trips
- Versatile for above-floor cleaning on stairs, upholstery, and pet beds
Cons:- Heavy to maneuver, especially on stairs or uneven surfaces
- Requires regular maintenance of brushes and tanks
- No specific price info available at the moment
Best for: Pet owners who want a powerful, large-capacity carpet cleaner for frequent deep cleaning of carpets, upholstery, and pet beds
Not ideal for: Small households or users who need a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver cleaner for quick spot cleaning or tight spaces
- Brand:Bissell
- Model Number:3746
- Unit Count:1
- Included Components:Crevice Tool
- UPC:011120272710
- Best Sellers Rank:#2,665 in Home & Kitchen
Our verdict“This model makes the most sense for pet owners seeking a high-capacity, deep-cleaning upright that handles a variety of surfaces with ease, despite its weight.”
BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner is ideal for quick, targeted stains on carpets, upholstery, and pet beds, especially when compared to larger, full-sized cleaners like the TurboClean Pet XL. Its compact design makes it easy to store and handle, perfect for apartments or vehicles, and it effectively removes fresh stains and odors. Nonetheless, its small capacity means frequent refilling, and it doesn’t match the deep cleaning power of larger models, limiting its utility to smaller, less frequent jobs. It’s a smart choice for those who need a portable, lightweight cleaner for occasional use, but not as a primary cleaning machine.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and odors
- Compact and easy to store
- Supports pet rescue charities with each purchase
- Lightweight for easy handling
Cons:- Limited cleaning capacity due to small size
- Requires purchasing cleaning formula separately
- Not suitable for large or deep cleaning tasks
Best for: Pet owners or homeowners needing a portable, easy-to-use spot cleaner for occasional stains and small cleaning tasks
Not ideal for: Households with extensive carpet cleaning needs or large-area messes requiring deep cleaning, where capacity and power are priorities
- Includes:4” Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, 8oz. BISSELL Little Green Formula
- Features:Cleans carpets, upholstery, car interiors, pet beds
- Storage:Compact for small spaces
Our verdict“This pick is perfect for those who need a portable, quick spot cleaner for occasional messes, but it’s not a substitute for larger, deeper cleaning machines.”
Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum
The Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum offers a winning combination of strong suction and portability, making it a top choice for apartments or quick cleaning sessions. Its lightweight design, under 8 pounds, makes it easy to carry and maneuver, especially with the removable extension wand that simplifies above-floor cleaning. Compared to the larger TurboClean Pet XL, it’s less suited to heavy-duty carpet cleaning but excels at quick pickups on hard floors and low-pile carpets. The bagless design means easy emptying, yet its limited capacity and focus on light cleaning mean it’s not the best option for extensive or deep cleaning tasks. It fills a niche for users who prioritize convenience over power.
Pros:- Powerful suction with scatter-free tech
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Removable extension wand for above-floor cleaning
- Bagless for quick emptying
Cons:- Limited to small spaces and light cleaning tasks
- Not suitable for deep cleaning or high-pile carpets
- Primarily designed for hard floors and low-pile carpets
Best for: Individuals living in small apartments or homes needing a lightweight, easy-to-use vacuum for daily or weekly quick cleanups
Not ideal for: Homes with thick carpets or large areas that require deep cleaning, where more powerful, larger machines are needed
- Weight:Less than 8 pounds
- Extension Wand:Removable with quick-release
- Design:Compact and lightweight
- Bagless:Yes
Our verdict“This vacuum is ideal for quick, everyday cleanups in small spaces, but it won’t replace a full-sized cleaner for deep or extensive jobs.”
How We Picked
These products were selected based on their performance, usability, build quality, and value. We prioritized models that balance cleaning effectiveness with ease of use, especially for different surfaces like carpets, upholstery, and hard floors. Additional considerations included maintenance ease, attachment versatility, and user reviews emphasizing durability. The ranking reflects a combination of these factors, with the top picks offering the best overall performance for typical household needs while also highlighting specialized options for pet owners and quick cleanups.Factors to Consider When Choosing Bissell
Choosing the right Bissell depends on understanding your specific cleaning needs and the tradeoffs involved. Consider the type of messes you face most often, your space limitations, and whether you prefer lightweight portability or more powerful deep cleaning. This guide will walk you through key factors that influence your decision, helping you avoid common pitfalls and select a model that offers the best value for your situation.Cleaning Surface Types
Different Bissell models excel on specific surfaces. For example, upright cleaners are generally better for deep carpet cleaning, while handheld or portable models work well on upholstery, stairs, and small spills. Knowing where you’ll use the cleaner most helps narrow down options and prevents paying for features you won’t use often.
Tank Capacity and Run Time
Size matters when it comes to tanks—larger capacity means less frequent refills, which is especially helpful for larger areas or multiple rooms. However, bigger tanks often add weight and bulk. If you prefer quick, light cleaning sessions, smaller tanks and compact designs may suit you better, even if it means more frequent stops.
Portability and Storage
Consider how easy it is to move and store your Bissell. Lightweight, handheld models are perfect for quick touch-ups and tight spaces, while upright or larger models might be better for thorough cleaning sessions at home. Think about your storage space and whether mobility or power is your priority, especially if you have stairs or limited storage.
Attachments and Versatility
Look for models with attachments that suit your cleaning needs—such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, or pet hair removers. More versatile models can handle a variety of messes, but they may also come with added complexity or higher price tags. Decide which attachments are must-haves for your routine.
Price and Value
While higher-priced Bissell models often include advanced features, they may not always be necessary for casual users. Balance your budget with the features you need most. Sometimes, investing a bit more in a durable, multi-surface cleaner pays off in long-term savings and convenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a Bissell cleaner on hardwood floors?
Many Bissell models, especially lightweight stick vacuums and handhelds, are suitable for hardwood floors. However, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for each model to avoid scratching or damaging sensitive surfaces. Using the correct attachment and avoiding excessive moisture will help preserve your flooring while achieving a thorough clean.
Are Bissell carpet cleaners safe to use on upholstery?
Yes, several Bissell models come with attachments designed specifically for upholstery cleaning. These tools help remove stains and pet hair from furniture without over-wetting the fabric. Always follow the cleaning instructions and test a small area first to prevent damage.
How often should I deep clean my carpets with a Bissell?
The frequency depends on household traffic and presence of pets or children. Generally, deep cleaning every 6-12 months is recommended to remove embedded dirt and allergens. For homes with pets or high traffic, more frequent cleaning can help maintain a healthier environment.
What should I consider when choosing a Bissell for pet hair removal?
Look for models with strong suction, specialized pet hair tools, and sturdy brushes designed to lift hair from carpets and upholstery. Pet-specific models often include features like deep-cleaning modes and larger tanks to handle frequent messes. Remember that heavier or bulkier models might be less maneuverable in tight spaces.
Is it worth paying extra for a Bissell with more attachments?
Additional attachments can significantly enhance versatility, allowing you to tackle different messes more effectively. If you frequently clean upholstery, stairs, or pet areas, investing in a model with a variety of tools can save time and improve results. However, for basic needs, a simpler model may provide better value without unnecessary extras.
Conclusion
For most households, the Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner offers an excellent mix of portability and cleaning power, making it ideal for quick spot cleans and small spills. Those with pets should consider the Bissell TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner for its specialized pet stain and hair removal features. If budget is a priority, the Bissell 2033 Featherweight Stick Vacuum provides reliable performance on hard floors at a lower price point. For users seeking a premium, all-in-one solution, investing in models with more attachments and larger tanks can pay off in convenience and longevity. Ultimately, selecting the right Bissell depends on your cleaning habits, surfaces, and whether you prioritize portability or deep cleaning capabilities.
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