The search for the best Bissell often revolves around finding a versatile, reliable cleaning tool that fits different needs and budgets. The Best Overall pick, the BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948, stands out for its strong cleaning power and pet-friendly features. The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner offers a compact, targeted solution for pet messes, while the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam combines steam cleaning with portability. Buyers face tradeoffs between size, power, and specialized features, making it essential to weigh what matters most. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these models and more to help you choose the right Bissell for your cleaning needs.
Get cleaning gear delivered free — and shop member deals
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Access to Prime Big Deal Days deals on October 6–7
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The top models excel either in portability or cleaning power, highlighting different priorities for buyers.
- Pet-specific features like strong suction and stain removal distinguish certain models from general-purpose cleaners.
- Size and weight play a critical role in choosing a portable and user-friendly Bissell unit.
- Steam capabilities are rare but valuable for deep cleaning and sanitizing surfaces.
- Price often correlates with features, but some budget options still deliver solid performance for light cleaning tasks.
| 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 | 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 Small, Easy-to-Handle Cleaning Tasks | Weight: Less than 8 pounds | Extension Wand: Removable with quick-release | Design: Compact and lightweight | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948 |  | Best for Pet Stains and Deep Cleaning | 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 Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Large Stains and Extended Cleaning Sessions | Capacity: 48 oz | Brand: BISSELL | Model: 1400B | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618 |  | Best for Multi-Mode Versatility and Fast Drying | 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 TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746 |  | Best for Large Area Deep Cleaning and Pet Odors | Brand: Bissell | Model Number: 3746 | Unit Count: 1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Spot Cleaning and Small Stains | Power: 30% more powerful than competitors | Tank Technology: Two-tank system for clean and dirty water separation | Included Tools: Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool, Pet Hair Removal Tool | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner
This compact model excels at targeted stain removal in tight spots, making it a solid choice for quick cleanups on upholstery, pet beds, and car interiors. Compared with larger options like the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet, this mini version sacrifices capacity for portability, which means it’s less suited for larger messes or frequent use. Its effective stain and odor removal are complemented by its small footprint, but the limited cleaning capacity requires more frequent refills. This pick is ideal for pet owners or apartment dwellers who need a portable, easy-to-store device that supports pet rescue initiatives with every purchase.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and odors
- Compact and easy to store
- Supports pet rescue charities with each purchase
Cons:- Limited cleaning capacity due to small size
- Requires purchasing cleaning formula separately
Best for: Pet owners and apartment dwellers needing quick, portable stain removal
Not ideal for: Homeowners with large carpets or frequent heavy-duty cleaning needs
- Includes:4” Tough Stain Tool, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, 8oz. BISSELL Little Green Formula
- Cleans:Carpets, upholstery, car interiors, pet beds
- Storage:Compact for small spaces
Our verdict“This mini cleaner is perfect for occasional spot cleaning in small spaces, especially for pet owners who value portability.”
Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum
This lightweight vacuum offers surprisingly strong suction with its scatter-free tech, making it ideal for quick pickups in small apartments or dorm rooms. Unlike the larger, more powerful upright models, the CleanView Compact emphasizes ease of use and portability, with a removable extension wand that simplifies above-floor cleaning. While it handles light cleaning on hard floors and low-pile carpets exceptionally well, it’s not designed for deep cleaning or larger areas. This vacuum is a good fit for students or anyone needing an easy, grab-and-go cleaning tool for small messes.
Pros:- Powerful suction with scatter-free technology
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Removable extension wand for above-floor cleaning
Cons:- Suitable mainly for small spaces and light cleaning
- Limited to hard floors and low-pile carpets
Best for: Students or renters needing a simple, lightweight vacuum for small spaces
Not ideal for: Homeowners with extensive carpeted areas or heavy-duty cleaning needs
- Weight:Less than 8 pounds
- Extension Wand:Removable with quick-release
- Design:Compact and lightweight
- Bagless:Yes
Our verdict“This vacuum is perfect for quick, light cleanups in small living areas, but not for deep or large-scale cleaning tasks.”
BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948
The TurboClean PET stands out among pet-focused cleaners, with tools and features tailored for tackling pet stains and ground-in dirt. Its deep-reach Powerbrush and self-cleanout tool make maintenance easier compared to the Little Green Max Pet, which lacks some of these specialized features. However, its primary focus on pet messes limits its versatility for other types of stains or general deep cleaning. This model makes the most sense for pet owners who frequently deal with pet-related messes and need a dedicated, effective solution for stubborn stains and odors.
Pros:- Effective at removing pet stains and ground-in dirt
- Includes versatile tools for various messes
- Self-cleanout feature simplifies maintenance
Cons:- Designed primarily for pet messes, less effective on other stains
- Compact size may limit cleaning capacity
Best for: Pet owners needing a dedicated machine for pet stains and ground-in dirt
Not ideal for: Homeowners without pets or those seeking a general-purpose deep cleaner
- 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 upright cleaner is best suited for pet households needing targeted stain and odor removal with minimal fuss.”
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner
This model offers a larger water tank (48 oz) and a straightforward spray, scrub, and suction process, making it well-suited for tackling multiple or larger stains in one session. Compared to the smaller Little Green Mini, it provides more capacity and is better for moderate cleaning tasks, but it still remains portable for small-scale jobs. Its trusted brand reputation and user-friendly operation make it a reliable choice for families or pet owners dealing with frequent messes, although it may fall short for extensive cleaning needs across large areas.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and odors
- Large 48 oz water tank for extended use
- Easy to operate with spray, scrub, and suction functions
Cons:- Limited to small or moderate messes
- Requires manual operation for each stain
Best for: Families or pet owners needing a portable, higher-capacity spot cleaner
Not ideal for: Users seeking a full-sized carpet cleaning machine for whole rooms
- Capacity:48 oz
- Brand:BISSELL
- Model:1400B
- Type:Portable Carpet Cleaner
Our verdict“This portable cleaner is ideal for households that need a reliable, higher-capacity spot cleaner for regular use.”
BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618
The HydroSteam Portable Cleaner combines multiple cleaning modes—SteamWash, Steam, and Wash—making it highly adaptable for different surfaces and mess types. Its 64 oz tank supports longer cleaning sessions, and the included tools enhance versatility for carpets, upholstery, and tile. Compared with the Little Green Mini, its multi-mode capability and faster drying time of roughly 30 minutes give it an edge for users who want a more flexible, efficient cleaning experience. However, its multiple modes add complexity and may require more steps, which could be a drawback for those seeking quick, straightforward cleaning.
Pros:- Effective stain and dirt removal with HydroSteam technology
- Multi-surface versatility for carpets, upholstery, and tile
- Fast drying time of about 30 minutes
Cons:- Limited to portable use, cannot replace full-sized cleaners
- Requires multiple steps for different cleaning modes
Best for: Homeowners seeking a versatile, multi-surface cleaner with fast drying times
Not ideal for: Those needing a dedicated, simple spot cleaner or with limited storage space
- 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 model offers flexible cleaning modes and quick drying, making it ideal for multi-surface cleaning in busy households.”
BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746
The BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL stands out for its wide 10-inch cleaning path, making it ideal for covering large carpeted areas quickly—especially compared with smaller, more maneuverable models like the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet. Its large 1-gallon tank minimizes interruptions, which is a significant advantage for extensive cleaning tasks, though it adds to the overall weight, making it somewhat challenging to maneuver for some users. This model excels at removing pet stains and odors thanks to its specialized formulas, making it perfect for pet owners who need a thorough, deep clean. However, its size and weight could be a drawback for those with limited storage or mobility issues. Compared to compact options, it’s a powerhouse for heavy-duty cleaning, but the tradeoff is less ease of handling. Overall, this pick makes the most sense for those tackling large areas or heavy pet messes regularly, willing to handle its bulk for faster, more effective results.
Pros:- Wide 10-inch cleaning path speeds up large area coverage
- Effective pet stain and odor removal with specialized formulas
- Large 1-gallon tank reduces refilling interruptions
- Versatile for above-floor cleaning on stairs, upholstery, and pet beds
Cons:- Heavy and bulky, making long cleaning sessions tiring
- Requires regular maintenance of brushes and tanks to maintain performance
Best for: Pet owners or families with large carpeted spaces who need quick, deep cleaning of carpets, upholstery, stairs, and pet beds
Not ideal for: Individuals with small living spaces or limited storage who prefer lightweight, easy-to-maneuver cleaners
- Brand:Bissell
- Model Number:3746
- Unit Count:1
- Included Components:Crevice Tool
- Part Number:3746
- UPC:011120272710
- Best Sellers Rank:#2,665 in Home & Kitchen
- Category Rank:#6 in Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Machines
Our verdict“This upright cleaner is best suited for pet owners and large-area users who prioritize deep cleaning and efficiency over maneuverability.”
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet is designed to tackle pet messes in tight spots, making it a great complement to larger uprights like the BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL. Its compact size and portable design allow for quick, targeted cleaning of pet stains on carpets, upholstery, or car seats. The powerful suction and the included Triple Action PET PRO OXY formula ensure stubborn pet stains are lifted effectively, even if it means multiple passes—something that’s often necessary with small, portable units. Its self-cleaning stain tool simplifies ongoing maintenance, which is helpful for frequent pet messes. However, its small size limits its capacity, making it less suitable for large areas or deep cleaning large rooms. It’s best for quick touch-ups or small messes rather than extensive cleaning, which is where the larger upright models excel. This cleaner is perfect for pet owners seeking a handheld option for spot cleaning, but not for those needing to clean large carpets regularly.
Pros:- Powerful suction for deep stain removal on small surfaces
- Effective pet stain removal with specialized Triple Action PET PRO OXY formula
- Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool simplifies maintenance
- Includes tools suited for different cleaning tasks, including pet hair removal
Cons:- Limited capacity makes it unsuitable for large or multiple stains without multiple passes
- Requires specific cleaning formulas, adding to ongoing costs
- May need multiple passes for stubborn, deep-set stains
Best for: Pet owners who need a portable, quick solution for stubborn stains on carpets, upholstery, or car interiors
Not ideal for: Homeowners requiring a full-room deep clean or large-area coverage, as its small capacity limits efficiency for extensive jobs
- Power:30% more powerful than competitors
- Tank Technology:Two-tank system for clean and dirty water separation
- 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 ideal for pet owners who need a quick, effective spot cleaner for small to moderate messes, but it’s not suited for large-area cleaning.”
How We Picked
I evaluated these Bissell models based on their cleaning performance, ease of use, build quality, versatility, and value for money. I prioritized products that excel in specific roles, such as pet stain removal or portability, to reflect different buyer needs. The ranking reflects a balance between power, size, and features that make each model stand out in its category. I also considered customer reviews and reputation to ensure that each pick offers reliable performance over time. This approach ensures that every model on the list provides a meaningful benefit aligned with its intended use case.Factors to Consider When Choosing Bissell
Choosing the right Bissell depends on understanding your cleaning priorities and the specific features that will serve you best. Consider how often you’ll use the cleaner, whether portability matters, and if specialized features like steam cleaning or pet stain removal are necessary. A clear grasp of these factors can prevent overspending on unnecessary features or buying a model that doesn’t meet your needs. The following sections highlight key considerations to help you make an informed choice.Cleaning Power and Surface Compatibility
Assess how well a Bissell cleans different surfaces, especially if you need it for carpets, upholstery, or hard floors. Some models are designed for light spot cleaning, while others provide deep-cleaning capabilities suitable for persistent stains. It’s also worth checking if the cleaner works effectively on pet messes, which often require stronger suction and stain removal features. Matching the machine’s power and surface compatibility to your typical cleaning tasks ensures better results and smoother operation.
Portability and Size
If frequent movement or storage space is a concern, opt for a lightweight, compact model. Portable units are easier to carry around, especially for quick cleanups or tight spaces. However, smaller models might lack the power or tank capacity of larger upright options. Evaluate your space and mobility needs carefully; sometimes, sacrificing a bit of power for ease of use can make a significant difference in daily convenience.
Special Features and Attachments
Consider whether additional features like steam cleaning, multiple attachments, or specialized pet tools are worth the extra investment. Steam models like the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam offer deep sanitization, but they tend to be heavier and more expensive. Pet-specific tools can make a noticeable difference in removing pet hair, stains, and odors, especially if you have multiple animals. Weigh the importance of these extras against your actual cleaning routines to avoid paying for features you won’t use often.
Ease of Maintenance and Durability
Look for models with straightforward cleaning and refilling processes, as well as durable build quality. Regular maintenance, like emptying tanks and cleaning filters, is essential for consistent performance. Cheaper models might save money upfront but could require more frequent repairs or replacements. Investing in a slightly more robust unit with easy-to-access parts can save time and money over the long run.
Price and Value
Price varies widely among Bissell models, often reflecting features and power. While budget options can handle light, occasional cleaning, more expensive models tend to offer better durability, larger tanks, and enhanced cleaning features. Consider how often you’ll use the machine and choose accordingly—spending more upfront can lead to better results and fewer replacements in the future. Balance your budget against the features that will genuinely improve your cleaning routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a steam cleaner worth it for regular home use?
Steam cleaners like the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam provide deep sanitization and are excellent for removing stubborn stains and odors without chemicals. However, they tend to be heavier and costlier than standard models. For routine cleaning, a traditional vacuum or spot cleaner might suffice, but if you prioritize hygiene and chemical-free cleaning, a steam model can be a valuable addition. Consider your cleaning frequency and specific needs before investing in this feature.
Are pet-specific Bissell cleaners significantly better for pet owners?
Yes, pet-specific Bissell models typically include stronger suction, specialized pet stain tools, and odor control features that general cleaners lack. These enhancements make cleaning up pet messes more efficient and effective, especially if you deal with frequent accidents or pet hair. However, they often come at a higher price and may be bulkier. If cleaning pet messes is a regular concern, these models can save you time and improve results, justifying the extra cost.
How important is tank size in choosing a Bissell carpet cleaner?
Tank size directly affects how long you can clean without refilling or emptying. Larger tanks are ideal for extensive cleaning sessions, reducing interruptions and making the process more efficient. Smaller tanks are lighter and easier to handle, but they require more frequent maintenance during cleaning. If you have large areas to clean or prefer fewer stops, prioritize models with bigger tanks; otherwise, a compact model may offer better maneuverability.
Can I use Bissell spot cleaners on hardwood floors?
Many Bissell spot cleaners are safe for hardwood floors when used with care, especially models designed for multi-surface cleaning. However, it’s important to select a lightweight, gentle model and avoid excessive water or steam that could damage wood. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions for compatibility with hard floors. For regular hardwood maintenance, a dedicated hardwood floor cleaner or a dry vacuum may be more suitable, reserving Bissell spot cleaners for occasional stains or spills.
Is it better to buy a Bissell upright or portable cleaner?
Upright Bissell cleaners generally offer more powerful cleaning and larger tanks, making them better suited for deep cleaning large carpeted areas. Portable models excel in spot cleaning, tight spaces, or for quick touch-ups, and are easier to store and carry around. Your choice depends on your cleaning habits: if you tackle big jobs frequently, an upright is likely more effective; for light, frequent spot cleaning, a portable unit provides convenience and flexibility.
Conclusion
For most households, the Best Overall pick, the BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948, offers a compelling balance of power, versatility, and pet-friendly features. Those on a budget or with light cleaning needs should consider the BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner for its affordability and portability. Pet owners who need targeted stain removal will appreciate the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable, while those seeking deep sanitation may find value in the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam. Beginners or casual users are better served by lightweight, easy-to-maintain models, whereas heavy users or large households might prioritize capacity and power. Ultimately, your choice should align with your specific cleaning routines and priorities, ensuring you get the most effective Bissell for your needs.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.Fall Picks
fall essentials
