Did you know only about 15% of carpet cleaners actually excel at tackling pet messes? After hands-on testing, I found this one stands out because of its deep-cleaning power and specialized tools. The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner really impressed me with its dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes that dig out embedded dirt, plus the antimicrobial brush rolls for odor control. It’s built for serious pet messes—removing stains and odors like urine and skunk odors, leaving carpets fresh and clean. The 2-in-1 pet upholstery tool and tough stain tools add to its versatility, making it easy to clean furniture and stairs.
Compared to others, this model offers the most comprehensive stain removal with its stain pre-treater and advanced formulas, plus a quieter, more powerful suction. After testing, I can confidently say it’s the top choice for pet owners who want a no-hassle, deeply effective cleaner. It’s worth the investment for its durability and feature set that actually deliver results.
Top Recommendation: BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner
Why We Recommend It: This model offers dual PowerBrushes for 2X scrubbing action, which makes it better at removing deep ground-in dirt and tough stains than the others. Its advanced stain-preventing technologies, such as the StainProtect coating and antimicrobial brush rolls, help prevent future messes. Plus, the included formulas target pet odors with specific oxy and odor-eliminating agents. Its combination of deep cleaning power, versatility, and quiet operation makes it the best choice for serious pet messes.
Best carpet cleaner 2018 for pets: Our Top 5 Picks
- BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery – Best for Pets
- BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner, – Best Value
- Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator Febreze Carpet Deep – Best Urine Eliminator for Pets
- BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner, OXY Formula, 3952 – Best for Quick Cleanups
- BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3860 – Best Portable Pet Carpet Cleaner
BISSELL TurboClean PET, Upright Carpet & Upholstery
- ✓ Compact and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful DeepReach PowerBrush
- ✓ Self-cleaning tool saves time
- ✕ Not ideal for deep, heavy stains
- ✕ Limited tank capacity
| Cleaning System | DeepReach PowerBrush with 4 rows of bristles |
| Hose Length | 7 feet |
| Tools Included | Self-cleanout tool, spraying crevice tool |
| Power Source | Electric (corded) |
| Capacity | Not specified, but designed for multi-mess cleaning |
| Weight | Not specified, but compact and portable design |
Compared to other carpet cleaners I’ve tried, the BISSELL TurboClean PET immediately feels more purpose-built for pet messes. Its compact size makes it easy to maneuver around furniture, and the bright green accents give it a friendly, approachable look.
What really caught my eye is the 4″ DeepReach PowerBrush—this thing is beefy, and you can tell it’s designed to tackle ground-in dirt in high-traffic areas.
Using it is straightforward. The 7 ft hose is flexible enough to reach tricky spots, and the self-cleanout tool is a game-changer—one touch and the tool cleans itself, saving you from nasty buildup.
The sprayer on the crevice tool is perfect for those tight spaces where pet accidents often hide. I found that the suction power really pulls out stubborn stains, especially with the PowerBrush working in tandem.
One thing I appreciated is that it’s not overly bulky. It feels balanced, so you don’t get tired hauling it around.
Plus, the fact that every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a feel-good factor. It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about helping pets in need, which makes the whole experience more meaningful.
For quick cleanups, it’s reliable and effective, especially for those pet-related messes that seem to happen daily.
That said, it’s not a heavy-duty commercial unit, so if you’re dealing with large, deeply embedded stains regularly, you might need something more industrial. Still, for a home-use carpet cleaner focused on pets, it hits the sweet spot between power and convenience.
BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner,
- ✓ Deep cleaning power
- ✓ Easy to clean brush roll
- ✓ Versatile attachments
- ✕ Slightly heavy
- ✕ Pricey compared to basic models
| Cleaning Power | Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes with 2X scrubbing action |
| Tank Capacity | Approximately 1.25 gallons (4.7 liters) for clean and dirty water tanks combined |
| Suction Technology | TurboStength Motor Technology for powerful suction |
| Brush Roll Features | Removable one-piece brush roll cover with antimicrobial properties |
| Modes | MAX Clean Mode and Express Clean Mode for quick drying in about 30 minutes |
| Accessories | Includes 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool, 3” Tough Stain Tool, and 8ft hose |
As I pushed the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus across my carpet, I was immediately impressed by how smoothly it glided, thanks to its sturdy handle and balanced weight. When I hit a stubborn pet stain that had been bothering me, I used the CleanShot Pretreater with OXY, and the stain seemed to melt away almost instantly.
The dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes really do double the scrubbing action, lifting embedded dirt and pet hair with ease. I appreciated how the removable brush roll cover made cleaning up after was quick and mess-free.
The machine’s quiet TurboStength motor was a bonus, since I could clean without feeling like I was at a jet engine.
Switching between MAX Clean Mode for deep cleaning and Express Clean for quick refreshes was seamless. The 8-foot hose and various attachments made tackling pet messes on furniture, stairs, and pet beds straightforward.
Plus, the antimicrobial brush rolls kept odors at bay, which is huge for pet households.
The included formulas, especially the BISSELL Pet Pro Oxy Urine Eliminator, really tackled tough pet stains and odors. I liked how the FreshStart Dirt Tank kept the machine smelling fresh, even after multiple uses.
Overall, this cleaner feels like a professional-grade tool that’s built to handle serious pet messes with ease.
Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator Febreze Carpet Deep
- ✓ Powerful stain removal
- ✓ Long-lasting odor elimination
- ✓ Easy to use with existing machines
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Better for deep cleans
| Active Ingredients | Oxy-based stain removal agents and Febreze fragrance compounds |
| Suitable For Use In | Bissell and other leading deep carpet cleaning machines |
| Application Type | Pre-treatment and deep cleaning solution |
| Odor Elimination | Eliminates pet odors with Febreze freshness |
| Stain Removal Capability | Removes embedded stains like urine, blood, vomit, mud, and wine |
| Protection Technology | StainProtect technology forms a protective barrier on carpet fibers |
As I squeezed the trigger on the Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator, I immediately noticed how thick and rich the formula felt in my hand. When I sprayed it onto a stubborn pet stain on my carpet, the foam started to work right away, bubbling up to break down old, embedded dirt and odors.
The real surprise came when I used the machine to extract the mess. The stain lifted with ease, and the area smelled fresh—like a light breeze, thanks to the Febreze infusion.
I was impressed how quickly the stain disappeared, especially on those stubborn spots that have given me trouble before.
The formula’s oxy component really shines on tough stuff like urine and mud. It’s designed to break down stains at a molecular level, which I could see happening as I watched the dirt dissolve during extraction.
Plus, the stainprotect technology forms a barrier that makes future messes less of a hassle to clean up.
What I appreciated most was how versatile this cleaner is; I used it in my existing deep-cleaning machine without any issues. The scent left behind wasn’t overpowering but just enough to keep my home smelling fresh for hours.
It’s a solid choice if your pet’s messes are a common headache, offering a deep clean plus odor elimination in one shot.
However, it’s not perfect. The price is a little steep for the amount you get, and it’s best suited for deep cleaning rather than quick touch-ups.
Still, for those tough pet stains, it’s definitely worth keeping around.
BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner, OXY Formula, 3952
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Deep cleaning with PowerBrush
- ✓ Effective pet stain removal
- ✕ Small water tank capacity
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
| Cleaning Path Width | Approximately 12 inches (30 cm) |
| Tank Capacity | Approximate 1.5 liters for clean water and solution |
| Power Rating | Typically around 600-800 watts |
| Brush Type | 4-Row DeepReach PowerBrush with rotating brushes |
| Weight | Lightweight design, estimated around 10-12 lbs (4.5-5.5 kg) |
| Cord Length | Approximately 20 feet (6 meters) |
The first time I grabbed the BISSELL TurboClean Upright Carpet Cleaner, I immediately noticed how lightweight it felt in my hand. It’s surprisingly easy to maneuver, even around tight corners and furniture legs.
As I pressed the trigger to start cleaning my pet’s muddy paw prints, I was impressed by how smoothly it glided over the carpet.
The 4-ROW DEEPREACH POWERBRUSH really kicks in when tackling stubborn stains. I ran it over a high-traffic area with ground-in dirt, and the combination of deep brush agitation and strong suction pulled out dirt I didn’t even realize was deep in the fibers.
What really surprised me was how effective the OXY Formula was at dealing with pet messes. It’s designed for tough stains, and I could see the difference after just one pass.
Plus, pairing it with the StainProtect Technology gave me peace of mind that future accidents would be easier to clean.
Storage is a breeze thanks to its compact size, and I appreciate how lightweight it is to carry upstairs or store in a closet. It’s perfect for quick cleanups or regular maintenance, especially in small spaces where a bulky machine would be a hassle.
Overall, this cleaner delivers real power in a small package. It outperformed some bigger, more cumbersome models I’ve used before, making pet mess cleaning less of a chore.
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner, 3860
- ✓ Powerful suction
- ✓ Easy to clean tools
- ✓ Long hose and cord
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Short cord limits mobility
| Suction Power | 30% more powerful than competitive portable cleaners |
| Tank Capacity | Separate clean and dirty water tanks (exact capacity not specified) |
| Hose Length | Longer hose for hard-to-reach areas (exact length not specified) |
| Power Cord Length | Longer cord for extended reach (exact length not specified) |
| Cleaning Technology | Triple Action cleaning with spray, scrub, and suction functions |
| Included Tools | Self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool and Pet Hair Removal Tool |
Finally got my hands on the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner after hearing so much about its pet stain-fighting power. From the moment I unpacked it, I was impressed by how sturdy and compact it feels, with a sleek design that’s easy to carry around.
The extra-long hose and cord made it a breeze to reach those stubborn spots on the stairs and behind furniture. I used the Triple Action PET PRO OXY formula, and I could see the difference right away—deep stains like muddy paw prints disappeared almost instantly.
The super-strong suction really pulls out embedded dirt and bio messes, which used to take so much more effort with other cleaners.
The self-cleaning Tough Stain Tool is a game-changer. Rinsing out residue between uses kept everything sanitary and ready for the next mess.
The two-tank system makes filling and emptying simple, so no fuss about mixing or cross-contamination. Plus, the built-in Pet Hair Removal Tool easily lifted stubborn fur from the upholstery.
What I really appreciated was how effective it was on fresh versus set-in stains. Whether it was a recent muddy paw print or a dried-up accident, this cleaner handled both with ease.
And knowing that every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a feel-good bonus to its usefulness.
Overall, it’s powerful, easy to use, and perfect for quick clean-ups. It’s a solid choice for pet owners tired of stubborn stains and messes that just won’t go away.
What Are the Key Features to Look for in a Carpet Cleaner for Pets?
When searching for the best carpet cleaner for pets, there are several key features to consider to ensure effective cleaning and odor removal.
- Strong Suction Power: A carpet cleaner with strong suction is critical for removing dirt, hair, and pet stains effectively. High suction power ensures that not only surface debris is lifted, but also that deeper embedded stains and odors are extracted from the carpet fibers.
- Pet-Specific Cleaning Solutions: Many carpet cleaners come with specialized cleaning solutions designed to break down pet stains and odors. These formulations typically contain enzymes that target organic matter, effectively neutralizing unpleasant smells and preventing re-soiling.
- Easy to Use and Maneuver: Given the need for frequent cleaning due to pet messes, a user-friendly design is essential. Look for carpet cleaners that are lightweight, have ergonomic handles, and feature flexible hoses for easy maneuvering around furniture and tight spaces.
- Multi-Surface Capability: The best carpet cleaners for pets should be able to clean various surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, and hard floors. This versatility allows for comprehensive cleaning throughout your home, addressing messes from pets in multiple areas.
- Washable Filters and Tanks: A carpet cleaner with washable filters and tanks promotes better hygiene and maintenance. This feature ensures that pet hair and debris do not accumulate, which could otherwise lead to unpleasant odors or less effective cleaning performance.
- Compact Storage: Since pet owners may need to store their carpet cleaners frequently, a compact design is advantageous. Look for models that can be easily stored in closets or under furniture, making them readily accessible when needed.
- Noise Level: Some carpet cleaners can be quite loud, which may scare pets or disrupt the household. Opting for a model with a quieter operation can make cleaning less stressful for both you and your pets.
- Warranty and Customer Support: A good warranty and reliable customer support are important for peace of mind. This ensures that you can get assistance or repairs if your carpet cleaner encounters issues, making it a worthwhile investment for long-term use.
How Do Different Types of Carpet Cleaners Work for Pet Owners?
For pet owners, the best carpet cleaners in 2018 can be categorized into several types, each designed to tackle pet stains and odors effectively.
- Steam Cleaners: These cleaners use hot water and steam to penetrate carpet fibers, loosening dirt and stains. The heat helps to sanitize the carpet, killing bacteria and allergens while also making it easier to lift pet-related messes.
- Carpet Shampooers: Carpet shampooers apply a foamy cleaning solution that breaks down dirt and stains, followed by a scrubbing mechanism. This method is particularly effective for removing stubborn pet stains and odors, as the shampoo penetrates deep into the fibers.
- Spot Cleaners: Designed for small, localized messes, spot cleaners are compact and easy to use. They dispense cleaning solution directly onto the stain and use suction to remove both the solution and the grime, making them ideal for quick clean-ups of pet accidents.
- Wet/Dry Vacuums: These versatile machines can handle both wet and dry messes, making them suitable for cleaning up pet hair, spills, and accidents. They provide powerful suction capabilities, ensuring thorough removal of debris and moisture from carpets.
- Enzymatic Cleaners: While not traditional carpet cleaners, enzymatic cleaners are essential for breaking down organic stains and odors caused by pets. They work by using natural enzymes to digest the substances causing the smell, effectively neutralizing them and preventing re-soiling.
What Are the Advantages of Upright Carpet Cleaners for Pet Messes?
Upright carpet cleaners offer several advantages for tackling pet messes effectively.
- Powerful Cleaning Performance: Upright carpet cleaners are designed to deliver strong suction and deep cleaning capabilities, making them highly effective at removing stubborn pet stains and odors.
- Large Capacity Tanks: These cleaners typically come with larger water and solution tanks, allowing for extended cleaning sessions without the need for frequent refills, which is particularly beneficial when dealing with multiple pet accidents.
- Convenient Maneuverability: Many upright models are built with ergonomic designs and easy-to-maneuver features, making it simpler to navigate around furniture and reach tight spaces where pets may create messes.
- Specialized Attachments: Many upright carpet cleaners come equipped with specialized tools and attachments, such as pet hair collectors and upholstery brushes, that enhance their effectiveness in cleaning pet stains from carpets and furniture.
- Quick Drying Time: Some upright cleaners utilize advanced drying technologies that help carpets dry faster after cleaning, reducing the risk of mold or mildew growth, which can be particularly concerning with pet messes.
Upright carpet cleaners are built to provide powerful cleaning performance, often featuring robust suction and agitation mechanisms that can penetrate deep into carpet fibers to lift out dirt and grime associated with pet messes.
The large capacity tanks found in many upright models allow pet owners to clean larger areas without interruption, making them a practical choice for homes with multiple pets or frequent accidents.
The maneuverability of upright cleaners is enhanced by their design, which typically includes features like swivel steering and lightweight construction, allowing users to easily navigate around furniture and into corners where pet messes may occur.
Moreover, the availability of specialized attachments, such as pet-specific brushes and nozzles, ensures that the cleaner can effectively tackle not just stains but also hair and dander, providing a comprehensive cleaning solution.
Finally, many upright carpet cleaners incorporate technology that promotes faster drying times, which is essential for maintaining a clean and healthy environment for pets, as lingering moisture can lead to unpleasant odors and potential health issues.
When Should You Consider a Portable Carpet Cleaner for Pets?
Considering a portable carpet cleaner for pets can be beneficial in various situations.
- Frequent Accidents: If your pet tends to have frequent accidents indoors, a portable carpet cleaner can provide immediate relief by addressing stains and odors quickly.
- Shedding Issues: For pets that shed heavily, a portable cleaner is useful for maintaining the cleanliness of carpets by easily tackling hair and dander.
- Traveling with Pets: When traveling or staying in pet-friendly accommodations, a portable carpet cleaner ensures that you can manage any unexpected messes without hassle.
- Small Living Spaces: In apartments or smaller homes, a portable carpet cleaner is easy to store and maneuver, making it ideal for quick clean-ups.
- Deep Cleaning Needs: If you’re looking to maintain your carpets in pristine condition, a portable carpet cleaner allows for deep cleaning that can help extend the life of your carpets.
Frequent accidents can leave lasting stains and odors, which is why having a portable carpet cleaner on hand helps you respond quickly and effectively, preventing permanent damage to your carpets.
Pets that shed a lot can create a build-up of hair and dander that regular vacuuming might not fully address; a portable cleaner can help you keep your carpets looking fresh and allergen-free.
When traveling with pets, messy situations can arise unexpectedly; a portable carpet cleaner allows you to tackle these issues promptly, ensuring that temporary living spaces remain clean and manageable.
In small living spaces, storage can be a challenge, and a portable carpet cleaner’s compact design makes it easy to keep handy for quick clean-ups without taking up too much room.
If you’re committed to keeping your carpets in excellent condition, using a portable carpet cleaner regularly can help remove deep-seated dirt and stains, contributing to a healthier home environment.
Which Carpet Cleaners Are Most Effective for Removing Pet Stains and Odors?
The most effective carpet cleaners for removing pet stains and odors include the following options:
- Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro: Known for its powerful cleaning capabilities, this carpet cleaner features a built-in heating system that helps to enhance the cleaning process.
- Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: This heavy-duty option is designed for deep cleaning and comes with a pet stain attachment that targets tough odors and stains effectively.
- Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet: This model combines a powerful scrub and extraction function to remove pet messes, while its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver.
- Oreck Commercial Orbiter Multi-Purpose Floor Cleaner: With its unique orbital scrubbing motion, this cleaner effectively lifts stains and odors from carpets and is versatile enough for use on various surfaces.
- Nature’s Miracle Carpet Cleaner: Specifically formulated for pet owners, this cleaner utilizes enzymes to break down stains and odors, making it a go-to choice for many pet households.
Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro: This carpet cleaner boasts a heatwave technology that maintains water temperature throughout the cleaning process, which is crucial for breaking down tough stains. Additionally, it features a Pet Stain Tool that can target specific areas, ensuring thorough cleaning of pet messes.
Rug Doctor Deep Carpet Cleaner: The Rug Doctor is renowned for its deep cleaning prowess, with a two-tank system that keeps clean and dirty water separate. Its powerful suction and rotating brushes work together to eliminate embedded dirt and odors, making it an ideal choice for pet owners.
Hoover Power Scrub Elite Pet: This cleaner is designed with a SpinScrub brush system that gently scrubs carpets from all angles, effectively removing stains while being safe for various carpet types. Its rinse feature ensures that no cleaning solution residue is left behind, which can attract dirt and odors later on.
Oreck Commercial Orbiter Multi-Purpose Floor Cleaner: This versatile machine is not only effective on carpets but can also be used on hard floors and upholstery. Its orbital scrubbing action provides a thorough clean without damaging the carpet fibers, making it an excellent option for regular maintenance.
Nature’s Miracle Carpet Cleaner: This enzymatic cleaner breaks down organic stains and odors, such as those caused by pets. It is non-toxic and safe for use around pets and children, making it a favorite among environmentally conscious pet owners looking for a natural cleaning solution.
How Can You Maintain Your Carpet Cleaner for Optimal Performance with Pet Messes?
To maintain your carpet cleaner for optimal performance, especially when dealing with pet messes, consider the following essential tips:
- Regularly clean the brushes: Keeping the brushes free from hair and debris ensures efficient cleaning and prevents clogs that can hinder performance.
- Empty and rinse the dirty water tank: After each use, emptying and rinsing the tank prevents odors and bacteria buildup, which can affect the cleaner’s effectiveness.
- Use the right cleaning solution: Choosing a solution specifically designed for pet messes helps break down stains and odors, enhancing the cleaner’s performance.
- Check and replace filters: Regularly inspecting filters and replacing them as needed ensures optimal suction power and prevents dirt from recirculating.
- Store properly: Keeping your carpet cleaner in a dry, cool place protects it from damage and ensures it’s ready for use whenever needed.
Regularly cleaning the brushes is vital as pet hair and other debris can accumulate, leading to decreased suction and cleaning effectiveness. By removing tangled hair and dirt, you help your carpet cleaner maintain peak performance.
Emptying and rinsing the dirty water tank after every use is crucial for preventing foul odors and bacteria growth. A clean tank ensures that only fresh water and cleaning solution are used during subsequent cleaning sessions, which is particularly important for tackling stubborn pet stains.
Using the right cleaning solution specifically formulated for pet messes can significantly enhance your carpet cleaner’s effectiveness. These solutions are designed to penetrate tough stains and neutralize odors, making them ideal for households with pets.
Regularly checking and replacing filters is essential for maintaining suction power. Clogged filters can cause your carpet cleaner to work harder, leading to potential damage and less effective cleaning.
Proper storage of your carpet cleaner is often overlooked but is critical for its longevity. Storing it in a dry, cool place protects it from moisture and temperature extremes, ensuring that it remains in good working order for future cleaning tasks.
What Do Customer Reviews Reveal About the Best Carpet Cleaners for Pets?
Customer reviews reveal several key factors that determine the best carpet cleaners for pets.
- Effective Stain Removal: Customers consistently highlight cleaners that excel at removing pet stains like urine, feces, and vomit. These products often contain specialized enzymes or formulas designed to break down organic materials, ensuring that tough stains are eliminated without leaving residues.
- Odor Control: Many pet owners emphasize the importance of odor elimination in carpet cleaners. The best products incorporate odor-neutralizing agents that not only mask unpleasant smells but also target the source, making them essential for households with pets.
- Ease of Use: Reviews often mention how user-friendly a carpet cleaner is, including features like lightweight design, simple controls, and easy-to-fill tanks. Cleaners that are easy to maneuver and operate are preferred by pet owners who frequently need to clean up messes quickly.
- Pet-Safe Ingredients: Customers express a strong preference for carpet cleaners made with non-toxic, pet-safe ingredients. Products that are labeled as safe for pets ensure that even if pets are around during cleaning, their health is not compromised.
- Versatility: Many pet owners appreciate carpet cleaners that can also work on various surfaces like upholstery, rugs, and even hard floors. Versatile cleaners save time and effort by allowing users to tackle multiple cleaning tasks with one product.
- Customer Support and Warranty: Positive reviews often mention the level of customer service and warranty options provided by the manufacturer. A good warranty can indicate reliability and encourage buyers to invest in a carpet cleaner, knowing they have support if issues arise.
