When it comes to cleaning appliances, Bissell stands out for its wide range of vacuums and carpet cleaners designed to tackle different messes. The Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum is the best overall pick for its combination of power and portability, making it ideal for everyday use. The BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner shines for pet owners needing powerful stain removal, while the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner offers versatile deep cleaning in a compact form. Each of these options balances performance, usability, and price differently, creating tradeoffs that matter depending on your cleaning priorities. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of each product and what to consider before buying your next Bissell.
Get cleaning gear delivered free with Prime
- Fast, free delivery on millions of items
- Prime Video, Amazon Music and more included
- Member-only deals all year
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The top-ranked models combine ease of use with strong cleaning performance, making them suitable for daily or occasional cleaning.
- Pet-specific models, like the TurboClean Pet XL, excel at stain removal but tend to be pricier and bulkier than general-purpose cleaners.
- Compact and portable options, such as the Little Green Mini, are ideal for quick spot cleaning but may lack deep cleaning power for larger jobs.
- Price and features don’t always align; investing in a more expensive model often provides better durability and stain removal capabilities.
- Versatility varies significantly—some models handle multiple surfaces, while others are specialized for specific tasks like upholstery or pet hair.
| Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum |  | Best for Small Spaces and Light Cleaning | Weight: Less than 8 pounds | Extension Wand: Removable with quick-release | Design: Compact and lightweight | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618 |  | Best for Versatile Spot and Surface Cleaning | 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 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 Small Stains and Odors | Capacity: 48 oz | Brand: BISSELL | Model: 1400B | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner |  | Best for Compact, Multi-Use Stain Removal | 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 TurboClean Pet XL Upright Carpet Cleaner, 3746 |  | Best for Large Areas and Pet Stains | 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 CleanView Compact Vacuum
The CleanView Compact Vacuum stands out for its combination of powerful suction and ultra-lightweight design, making it ideal for those with limited storage or small living areas. Compared to larger models like the BISSELL TurboClean PET, it sacrifices capacity for maneuverability, focusing on quick, easy cleanup of light debris on hard floors and carpets. Its removable extension wand adds versatility for above-floor cleaning, but it’s less suited for deep cleaning or extensive messes. The bagless design simplifies emptying, yet the small size limits its effectiveness for larger spaces or heavy-duty tasks. This pick makes the most sense for apartment dwellers or those needing a secondary, quick-clean tool.
Pros:- Powerful suction with scatter-free technology
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Removable extension wand for above-floor cleaning
Cons:- Limited to small spaces and light debris
- Not suitable for deep cleaning or large areas
Best for: People living in small apartments or needing a lightweight, easy-to-store vacuum for quick tidy-ups
Not ideal for: Homeowners with large areas or heavy-duty cleaning needs, as its capacity and power are limited
- Weight:Less than 8 pounds
- Extension Wand:Removable with quick-release
- Design:Compact and lightweight
- Bagless:Yes
Our verdict“This vacuum is perfect for small-space dwellers seeking quick, light cleaning without bulk.”
BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3618
The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam offers impressive multi-surface cleaning with its HydroSteam technology, making it ideal for tackling stains on carpets, upholstery, and even tile. While it outperforms larger, bulkier carpet cleaners like the BISSELL TurboClean PET in portability, it’s limited to small to moderate messes and requires multiple steps for different cleaning modes, which can slow down the process. Its 64 oz tank provides ample capacity for quick jobs, and fast drying times of around 30 minutes help minimize downtime. However, it’s not meant for extensive carpet cleaning or large areas, requiring ongoing investment in cleaning formulas. This model suits those needing a portable, multi-surface cleaner for occasional use around the home.
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, not a full-sized cleaner
- Requires multiple steps for different modes and specialized formulas
Best for: Homeowners needing a portable solution for spot cleaning carpets, upholstery, and tiles
Not ideal for: Those requiring deep, large-area carpet cleaning or commercial use, as its capacity and operation are limited
- 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 makes sense for users needing a portable, multi-surface tool for quick spot and stain removal.”
BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 3948
The BISSELL TurboClean PET 3948 is designed specifically for pet owners, with tools and features aimed at removing pet stains and ground-in dirt. Its deep-reach powerbrush and versatile tools outperform general-purpose cleaners like the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet in pet-specific scenarios. The self-cleaning tool simplifies maintenance, and its upright design allows for easier handling of larger areas compared to handheld models. However, it’s primarily tailored for pet messes, which means it might fall short on other stubborn stains or heavy-duty household cleaning. Its compact size limits the cleaning capacity for bigger spaces, but it offers targeted pet stain removal with less hassle.
Pros:- Effective at removing pet stains and ground-in dirt
- Includes versatile tools for various pet messes
- Self-cleanout feature simplifies maintenance
Cons:- Primarily designed for pet messes, less effective on other stains
- Limited cleaning capacity due to compact size
Best for: Pet owners seeking an effective, easy-to-maintain solution for pet-related stains and ground-in dirt
Not ideal for: Users without pets or those needing a versatile cleaner for large or non-pet related messes, as its focus is specialized
- Model:3948
- Type:Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
- Includes:7 ft Hose, 4″ Self Cleanout Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool
- Special Features:Self-cleanout tool, Deepreach Powerbrush
Our verdict“This model works best for pet owners needing a dedicated, easy-to-maintain cleaner for pet-related messes.”
BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Portable Carpet Cleaner is a compact, reliable option for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery, especially for small or moderate messes. Its 48 oz water tank supports multiple uses without frequent refilling, and the simple spray, scrub, and suction operations make stain removal straightforward. Compared to the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet, it’s slightly less equipped for heavy pet messes but still handles everyday stains well. Its manual operation means it’s ideal for occasional use rather than large-scale cleaning. The limited capacity and the need to buy cleaning formulas separately are minor tradeoffs for its portability and ease of use.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains and odors
- Large water tank for extended cleaning sessions
- Easy to operate with spray, scrub, and suction functions
Cons:- Limited to small or moderate messes
- Requires purchase of cleaning formulas separately
Best for: Homeowners seeking a portable, easy-to-use cleaner for spot stains and odors on carpets and upholstery
Not ideal for: Those with large cleaning areas or requiring heavy-duty, frequent cleaning, due to its small capacity
- Capacity:48 oz
- Brand:BISSELL
- Model:1400B
- Type:Portable Carpet Cleaner
Our verdict“This cleaner suits casual users needing a portable device for quick stain and odor removal on small surfaces.”
BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Mini emphasizes portability and versatility, making it a strong choice for those who need a small yet capable cleaner for various surfaces. It excels at removing stains and odors from carpets, upholstery, pet beds, and even car interiors. Its compact size supports easy storage and quick grab-and-go cleaning, aligning with pet rescue charities’ goals of affordability and mobility. Compared to larger models like the BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL, it’s less suited for large or heavy-duty cleaning but shines in tight spaces and for quick spot treatments. The main tradeoff involves its limited capacity and the need to buy cleaning formulas separately.
Pros:- Effective at removing stains, dirt, and odors
- Compact and easy to store
- Supports pet rescue charities with every purchase
Cons:- Limited cleaning capacity due to small size
- Cleaning formula must be purchased separately
Best for: Pet owners and individuals needing a portable, space-saving cleaner for small-scale stain removal
Not ideal for: Users with large areas or frequent heavy cleaning, as its small size limits capacity and efficiency
- 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 mini cleaner is ideal for pet owners and those needing a portable solution for small stains and quick cleanups.”
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 when compared to smaller, more maneuverable models like the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet. Its large 1-gallon tank minimizes frequent refills, which is a significant advantage for deep cleaning sessions. The inclusion of specialized formulas targeting pet stains and odors makes it particularly effective for pet owners dealing with stubborn messes. However, this model is relatively heavy and bulky, which can make it challenging to maneuver around furniture or stairs. Regular maintenance of brushes and tanks is required to keep performance optimal. This pick makes the most sense for households with large carpets, pets, and a need for quick, comprehensive cleaning but might be less suitable for those with limited storage or mobility issues.
Pros:- Wide 10-inch cleaning path for faster 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 design can be difficult to maneuver
- Requires regular maintenance of brushes and tanks
Best for: Pet owners with large carpeted areas and high cleaning frequency
Not ideal for: Small apartments or users who prioritize lightweight, easy-to-maneuver machines
- 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 cleaning, accepting some weight and maintenance tradeoffs.”
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner
The BISSELL Little Green Max Pet excels in targeted stain removal, thanks to its superior suction and compact design. Compared with the BISSELL TurboClean Pet XL, it offers less coverage per pass but provides exceptional control for spot cleaning on carpets, upholstery, and pet beds. Its self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool simplifies ongoing maintenance, making it appealing for busy households. The inclusion of the Pet Hair Removal Tool adds versatility for pet hair embedded in fabric. However, its portable size limits its capacity to handle large or multiple stains at once, often requiring multiple passes on stubborn spots. The need for specific cleaning formulas, like the Triple Action PET PRO OXY, can add to ongoing costs. This cleaner is ideal for pet owners who need quick, effective stain removal on small areas rather than whole-room cleaning and aren’t expecting to tackle large messes regularly.
Pros:- Powerful suction for deep cleaning small areas
- Effective pet stain removal with specialized formula
- Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool simplifies maintenance
- Includes multiple tools for different cleaning needs
Cons:- Limited capacity makes it unsuitable for large messes
- Requires specific cleaning formulas, adding ongoing costs
- May need multiple passes for stubborn stains
Best for: Pet owners needing a portable, quick-action spot cleaner for moderate messes
Not ideal for: Households with extensive carpet cleaning needs or large stains that require deep or frequent cleaning
- 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 perfect for pet owners who want quick, targeted stain removal without the bulk of larger machines.”
How We Picked
In selecting these Bissell products, I focused on performance, usability, build quality, and value for different user needs. Each product was evaluated based on its cleaning power, ease of operation, design durability, maintenance requirements, and overall versatility. I also considered customer reviews and expert opinions to ensure the picks reflect real-world performance. The ranking accounts for how well each model balances these factors within its price range, helping buyers find options tailored to their specific cleaning situations.Factors to Consider When Choosing Bissell
Choosing the right Bissell depends on understanding your cleaning environment and priorities. Factors like the type of messes you encounter most often, whether you need portability or deep cleaning power, and your budget all influence the best choice. Considering these factors carefully can help prevent buyers from overspending on features they won’t use or missing out on essential capabilities.Cleaning Power and Performance
Assess how well the cleaner handles different types of messes, from everyday dust to stubborn pet stains. Some models prioritize suction and agitation for deep carpet cleaning, while others focus on quick spot fixes. Understanding your typical cleaning needs ensures you select a model that won’t fall short when it counts most.
Portability and Size
If you need to move your cleaner between rooms or carry it up stairs, portability becomes a key factor. Compact models like the Little Green Mini excel here, but they often sacrifice some power. Larger, upright models tend to be more powerful but less convenient for quick or multi-room cleaning tasks.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Look for models with straightforward controls, easy-to-empty tanks, and simple filter access. Overly complicated designs can frustrate users and lead to neglect, reducing the cleaner’s lifespan. Balance ease of maintenance with performance features to ensure long-term satisfaction.
Durability and Build Quality
Consider how resilient the materials are, especially if the cleaner will see frequent use or tough stains. Investing in a well-built model can save money over time by avoiding frequent replacements or repairs. Reading customer feedback can reveal which models stand up best to regular cleaning routines.
Price and Value
More expensive options often include advanced features and greater durability but may not be necessary for light use. Conversely, budget models can handle small jobs but might lack longevity or powerful cleaning capabilities. Determine your cleaning frequency and mess severity to find the best value for your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Bissell carpet cleaners on hardwood floors?
Many Bissell models are designed for multiple surfaces, including hardwood floors, but it’s essential to check each model’s specifications. Some, like portable spot cleaners, work well on sealed hardwoods, while larger upright models may be better suited for carpets. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid damage and ensure effective cleaning.
Are pet-specific Bissell cleaners worth the extra cost?
Pet-specific models like the TurboClean Pet XL are specially designed to handle pet hair, stains, and odors, often featuring stronger suction and specialized tools. If you frequently clean up after pets, investing in these models can save time and improve results. However, for light pet hair, a general-purpose cleaner may suffice, making the higher price less justifiable for casual users.
How often should I replace or upgrade my Bissell cleaner?
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your Bissell cleaner, but most models will need replacement or upgrading after 3-5 years of regular use. Signs like diminished suction, persistent odors, or difficulty cleaning indicate it might be time for a new model. Choosing a durable build and easy-to-maintain features can help maximize your investment.
What features should I prioritize for heavy-duty cleaning?
For frequent or tough cleaning jobs, focus on models with high suction power, strong agitation, and large capacity tanks. Features like heated cleaning, multiple brushes, and specialized attachments can also improve performance. Keep in mind that these models tend to be bulkier and pricier, so balance your needs with storage space and budget constraints.
Is it better to buy a corded or cordless Bissell cleaner?
Corded models generally provide consistent power and longer operation times, making them suitable for larger or more intensive cleaning tasks. Cordless cleaners offer greater portability and ease of maneuverability, ideal for quick spot cleaning or areas without easy access to outlets. Your choice depends on how and where you plan to use the cleaner most often.
Conclusion
For most households, the Bissell CleanView Compact Vacuum offers a balanced mix of power, portability, and affordability, making it the best overall choice. Pet owners or those dealing with stubborn stains might prefer the BISSELL TurboClean PET Upright Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner for its specialized features. If budget is a primary concern, the Little Green Mini provides reliable spot cleaning without a hefty price tag. For those seeking durability and deep cleaning, investing in a premium model with advanced features can pay off. Ultimately, understanding your specific cleaning needs and environment will guide you toward the best Bissell for your situation.
Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples' Day Picks
long weekend sales
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
