Best Carpet Cleaner for Pets in 2025: Tested and Reviewed

As a pet owner, keeping your home spotless while managing the mess that comes with furry friends can be a real challenge. From shedding fur to the occasional accident, pets leave their mark on your carpets in more ways than one. But don’t worry—choosing the right carpet cleaner can make all the difference. In this report, we’ve tested and reviewed the best carpet cleaners for pets, taking into account factors like suction power, stain and odor removal, ease of use, and durability. Whether you have a playful pup or a curious kitten, we’ve got you covered with the top picks to help keep your home fresh and clean.

List of the Best Carpet Cleaner for Pets:

Check out the detailed reviews below.

1. BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus Carpet Cleaner

The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus (3588F) is an advanced upright deep cleaner designed specifically for pet owners. Powered by a 6.8-amp motor and equipped with TURBOSTRENGTH MOTOR TECHNOLOGY, this model delivers powerful suction with minimal noise, making it both efficient and energy-saving. It is specifically engineered to tackle tough pet stains and odors, including skunk odors, with its Max Clean Mode featuring 12 rows of rotating Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes. This ensures deep cleaning, lifting embedded dirt and stubborn stains from carpets and upholstery.

In addition to the deep cleaning capabilities, the ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus offers the convenience of Express Clean Mode, which dries carpets in approximately 30 minutes, a notable advantage for those in need of quick results. The inclusion of the Pet Upholstery Tool, Tough Stain Tool, and Hose & Tool Attachment further enhances the product’s versatility, allowing users to tackle a variety of cleaning tasks, from carpets to furniture.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Powerful Suction: TURBOSTRENGTH MOTOR TECHNOLOGY ensures effective cleaning.
2. Express Clean Mode: Dries carpets in about 30 minutes.
3. Max Clean Mode: 12 rows of rotating brushes for deep cleaning.
4. Pet-Friendly Tools: Includes a Pet Upholstery Tool and Tough Stain Tool.
5. Lightweight Design: Easy to maneuver with a low-profile foot for under-furniture access.

Pros:

• Efficient at removing pet hair and stains.
• Dries carpets quickly with Express Clean Mode.
• Lightweight and easy to move.
• Includes versatile tools for various cleaning tasks.
• Supports pet welfare through BISSELL Pet Foundation.

Cons:

• Mixed suction performance from some users.

2. Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner

The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe Carpet Cleaner is an efficient and versatile machine designed for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery. Weighing 18.5 pounds and featuring a compact design (21.9″D x 14.6″W x 23″H), this cleaner is both easy to maneuver and store. Its standout feature is the five counter-rotating SpinScrub brushes, which work together to lift and remove stubborn stains, dirt, and pet messes, providing a deep, thorough clean. Additionally, the HeatForce technology ensures faster drying times, making it ideal for quick use.

With Dual Tank Technology, this machine separates clean and dirty water, allowing for easier filling, emptying, and rinsing. The Auto Mix feature precisely mixes the cleaning solution, ensuring optimal performance and effective cleaning with each use. The Hoover PowerScrub Deluxe comes with versatile tools, including a pet tool, upholstery tool, and crevice tool, which are designed for deep cleaning hard-to-reach places and sensitive fabric areas.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. SpinScrub Brushes: Five counter-rotating brushes for deep cleaning.
2. HeatForce Technology: Provides faster drying times.
3. Dual Tank Technology: Separate tanks for clean and dirty water.
4. Auto Mix Feature: Precisely mixes cleaning solution for optimal results.
5. Versatile Tools: Includes pet, upholstery, and crevice tools.

Pros:

• Effective at removing stains and dirt.
• Includes specialized tools for pet messes and upholstery.
• Easy to maneuver and store.
• Budget-friendly compared to other models.
• Fast drying with HeatForce technology.

Cons:

• Mixed reviews on water suction performance.

3. Shark EX201 CarpetXpert Carpet Cleaner

The Shark EX201 CarpetXpert Upright Cleaner is an advanced carpet and upholstery cleaner designed for deep cleaning, tough stain removal, and pet messes. Weighing just 18.05 pounds and measuring 13.15″D x 11.97″W x 43.5″H, it’s both lightweight and compact, making it easy to maneuver and store. The Shark EX201 features StainStriker Technology, combining two unique chemicals that activate on contact to deliver up to 20X more stain-striking power, ensuring deep and effective stain removal without any pre-mixing. Its CarpetXpert Technology includes a high-speed brushroll, PowerSpray high-pressure spray, and powerful suction to tackle dirt, grime, and pet messes with ease.

Perfect for pet owners, this model quickly eliminates odors, including urine and smoke, while also offering a built-in spot and stain remover for tackling localized messes on stairs, upholstery, and more. Thanks to its powerful suction, the Shark EX201 provides ultra-fast drying times, leaving carpets dry within an hour.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. StainStriker Technology: Activates a powerful OXY formula for tough stain removal.
2. CarpetXpert Technology: High-speed brushroll and high-pressure spray for deep cleaning.
3. Pet-Friendly: Eliminates odors, including pet urine and smoke.
4. Fast Drying: Ultra-fast drying times thanks to strong suction.
5. Portable and Lightweight: Easy to maneuver and store.

Pros:

• Powerful suction and stain removal capabilities.
• Effective odor elimination, including pet messes.
• Lightweight and easy to use.
• Fast drying time, with carpets dry in about an hour.
• Includes versatile tools for spot and stain cleaning.

Cons:

• Small tank size requires more frequent refills.

4. Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner

The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner is a lightweight and compact machine designed for efficient carpet cleaning, especially in small homes or apartments. Weighing only 12.5 pounds and with dimensions of 15.25″D x 10.13″W x 43.5″H, this cleaner is easy to store and maneuver, making it a great option for tight spaces. Despite its smaller size, it is equipped with the PowerSpin pet brush roll, which is antimicrobial and helps combat pet odors while cleaning carpets and area rugs. The inclusion of HeatForce technology ensures that carpets dry quickly, reducing wait time for a refreshed home.

The Hoover PowerDash is designed to handle pet messes, high-traffic areas, and everyday stains. It comes with a sample of Hoover’s carpet cleaner solution to enhance cleaning performance. Customers appreciate its fast setup time and efficient cleaning power, with some noting its effectiveness on large area rugs.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Lightweight and Compact: Easy to move and store in small spaces.
2. PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll: Antimicrobial brush helps reduce pet odors.
3. HeatForce Technology: Ensures faster drying times for carpets.
4. Includes Sample Solution: Comes with Hoover carpet cleaner solution for enhanced performance.
5. Ideal for Small Spaces: Perfect for apartments, area rugs, and high-traffic areas.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to store.
• Effective at removing pet odors with antimicrobial brush.
• Fast drying time due to HeatForce technology.
• Easy setup and use.
• Good value for money.

Cons:

• Small water tank requires frequent refills.

5. Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush Pet Carpet Cleaner

The Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush Pet Carpet Cleaner (2987) is a powerful yet compact solution for pet owners dealing with messes on carpets and area rugs. Weighing just 12 pounds and with dimensions of 16″D x 10.5″W x 20″H, this lightweight cleaner is perfect for smaller living spaces or apartments. The machine features a four-row DeepReach PowerBrush Roll, which effectively lifts and removes dirt, stains, and pet messes, such as urine, mud, and vomit. Paired with Bissell’s cleaning formula, it provides a deep clean, ensuring your carpets and rugs are fresh and spotless.

The two-tank technology ensures that clean water and formula remain separate from dirty water, offering a hygienic clean every time. Despite its compact size, this cleaner provides excellent suction power and performance, making it great for high-traffic areas. Its ease of use and simple maintenance, with removable tanks and a detachable nozzle, make it convenient for everyday cleaning.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Four-Row DeepReach PowerBrush: Lifts dirt and stains effectively.
2. Lightweight Design: Easy to carry and store.
3. Two-Tank Technology: Keeps clean and dirty water separate.
4. Removable Water Tanks: Simplifies filling and emptying.
5. Compact and Powerful: Ideal for small spaces and tough pet messes.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
• Effective at lifting pet stains and dirt.
• Great for small spaces and apartments.
• Simple maintenance with removable tanks and nozzles.
• Budget-friendly option with good value.

Cons:

• Small dirty water tank requires frequent emptying.

6. Shark CarpetXpert EX121BRN Carpet Cleaner

The Shark CarpetXpert EX121BRN is an upright carpet and area rug cleaner designed to tackle tough dirt, grime, and pet messes. Weighing 14.5 pounds and measuring 13.2″D x 12″W x 28.5″H, it combines powerful suction with CarpetXpert Technology, which features a high-speed brushroll, PowerSpray high-pressure spray, and enhanced suction for deep cleaning. This versatile cleaner is perfect for both carpets and area rugs, efficiently removing dirt, stains, and odors, including pet urine and smoke.

The Shark CarpetXpert offers ultra-fast dry times by quickly extracting water, leaving carpets drier without oversoaking. The machine’s lightweight and compact design makes it easy to maneuver, making it suitable for everyday use in homes of all sizes. The easy-clean brushroll cover is a notable feature, enabling quick maintenance.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. CarpetXpert Technology: High-speed brushroll and PowerSpray for deep cleaning.
2. Pet-Friendly: Eliminates odors, including pet urine and smoke.
3. Ultra-Fast Dry Times: Quickly dries carpets without oversoaking.
4. Lightweight Design: Easy to maneuver and store.
5. Easy-Clean Brushroll Cover: Simplifies maintenance.

Pros:

• Powerful suction and deep cleaning capabilities.
• Ideal for pet owners with odor-eliminating features.
• Quick drying time, leaving carpets drier faster.
• Compact and easy to maneuver.
• Easy-to-clean brushroll cover.

Cons:

• Dirty water basin fills quickly.

7. Rug Doctor Pet Portable Spot Cleaner

The Rug Doctor Pet Portable Spot Cleaner is a powerful and compact cleaning machine designed to tackle tough pet stains and odors. With 2X suction power, this machine provides professional-grade cleaning results, effectively removing pet messes from carpets, upholstery, area rugs, and even car interiors. Its dual action pet tool with rubberized bristles lifts pet hair and deeply embedded dirt, while its dual tank system keeps clean and dirty water separate, ensuring efficient and hygienic cleaning.

Weighing just a few pounds and featuring carpet-friendly wheels and a retractable handle, the Rug Doctor Pet Portable Spot Cleaner is portable and easy to maneuver. It’s ideal for quick spot cleaning, everyday messes, and deep-down cleaning tasks like pet accidents, vomit, or mud.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 2X Suction Power: Professional-grade cleaning for tough stains and odors.
2. Dual Action Pet Tool: Rubberized bristles for pet hair removal.
3. Portable and Lightweight: Easy to move and store with retractable handle.
4. Dual Tank System: Keeps clean and dirty water separate for hygienic cleaning.
5. Versatile Cleaning: Works on carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors.

Pros:

• Strong suction power for deep cleaning.
• Compact, portable, and easy to store.
• Effective on pet messes and car upholstery.
• Dual tank system prevents cross-contamination.
• Easy to use, with no assembly required.

Cons:

• Some reports of water leakage.

8. Kenmore KW4010 Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner

The Kenmore KW4010 Pet Portable Carpet Cleaner is a high-performance cleaning solution designed to tackle tough pet stains, dirt, and odors. Weighing 19 pounds and measuring 15.5″D x 13.9″W x 22.4″H, this portable cleaner combines dual-powered brush rolls with a 3.2L clean tank and 1.4L dirty tank to provide efficient cleaning for both rugs and upholstery. The dual brush system lifts embedded dirt, mud, wine, and pet accidents, making it an ideal choice for pet owners and households with high-traffic areas.

The cleaner’s easy-to-remove brush roll cover allows for convenient maintenance, ensuring optimal performance. The lightweight side-by-side design enhances maneuverability, offering a smooth push-pull experience. The dual-tank system makes filling and emptying hassle-free, while the included trial-size cleaning formula ensures you’re ready to clean from day one.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Dual Powered Brush Rolls: Effectively removes embedded dirt, stains, and odors.
2. Large Capacity Tanks: 3.2L clean tank and 1.4L dirty tank for efficient cleaning.
3. Easy Clean Removable Cover: For convenient maintenance.
4. Lightweight Design: Easy to maneuver with a side-by-side configuration.
5. Dual Tank System: Simple to fill and empty for hassle-free cleaning.

Pros:

• Effective at removing pet stains and odors.
• Dual brush system works well on carpets and upholstery.
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
• Large capacity tanks reduce refill frequency.
• Includes cleaning formula for immediate use.

Cons:

• Mixed build quality; some report cracking tanks.

How to Choose the Best Carpet Cleaner for Pets?

If you’re a pet owner, you know that keeping your home clean can be a constant challenge. From muddy paws to shedding fur and the occasional accident, maintaining your carpets can seem like a never-ending battle. But fear not—finding the perfect carpet cleaner for pets can make all the difference.

Understanding Your Needs: What’s Your Carpet Cleaner Struggle?

Before you rush out and buy the first carpet cleaner you see, it’s essential to understand the unique needs of your home. Does your pet shed a lot? Does your pet have accidents indoors? Or are you mainly looking to maintain the freshness of your carpets?

The first step is to assess the frequency of use and the severity of your carpet issues. If your pets leave behind fur, dander, and dirt, you’ll need a vacuum-like carpet cleaner with powerful suction. On the other hand, if accidents are more of a concern, you’ll need a cleaner that can tackle both stains and odors.

Identifying your specific needs is crucial for choosing the right model that will truly make a difference.

Suction Power: More is Better

One of the most critical aspects to look at when choosing a carpet cleaner for pets is the suction power. Strong suction ensures that the cleaner can extract dirt, debris, and pet hair deeply embedded in the carpet fibers. This is especially important if your pets shed frequently, as strong suction will prevent fur from settling into the carpet and becoming a long-term problem.

Look for models that feature high suction power and a variety of cleaning modes, especially if your carpet type varies in thickness. For heavily trafficked areas, opt for a cleaner that can handle dense carpets and rugs with ease.

Stain and Odor Removal: Tackling the Tough Stuff

We all know that pets can sometimes leave unpleasant surprises on our carpets. Whether it’s an accident, a muddy paw print, or a spilled bowl of food, you need a carpet cleaner that can tackle stains and odors effectively.

Carpet cleaners designed for pet owners often include a special formula to neutralize odors while cleaning. These cleaners may feature specialized brushes or tools to deep-clean stains caused by urine, vomit, or feces. Some models even come with specific pet stain removers designed to break down organic matter and eliminate lingering odors at the source.

Choosing a carpet cleaner with a stain and odor-eliminating solution is essential for a truly fresh, clean home, particularly for those with young pets or those still being potty trained.

Ease of Use: Convenience Matters

When you’re cleaning up after pets, the last thing you want is a complicated carpet cleaner. A user-friendly design with intuitive features will make your life much easier. Look for models with an easy-to-empty tank, adjustable settings for different carpet types, and a lightweight design for ease of maneuverability.

Additionally, some pet-friendly carpet cleaners come with an array of attachments, such as a handheld hose or upholstery brush, which can be used for cleaning furniture, stairs, and even your pet’s favorite spots around the house. Having these additional features will add versatility to your cleaning routine.

Size and Portability: Making Storage Easy

While power is important, so is the size and portability of your carpet cleaner. Large, bulky machines can be a hassle to move around, especially if you have a lot of space to cover. Fortunately, many modern carpet cleaners come in compact, portable designs without sacrificing performance.

If you have a small to medium-sized home, a portable or lightweight cleaner will likely suit your needs. However, if you live in a larger home or have multiple levels, consider a more substantial machine with a larger water tank that will reduce the frequency of refilling.

Battery vs. Corded: Which is Right for You?

When choosing between a battery-powered or corded carpet cleaner, think about your cleaning area. Corded models tend to have more powerful suction and larger water tanks, making them ideal for larger spaces or more demanding cleaning tasks. On the other hand, battery-powered cleaners offer greater flexibility and convenience, particularly for quick cleanups in smaller areas or for spot cleaning.

If you opt for a cordless option, make sure it has a long battery life to get the job done without interruption.

Maintenance and Durability: Long-Term Investment

Investing in a carpet cleaner for pets is a long-term decision. After all, you don’t want to purchase a new one every few months. The durability of the machine, including its brushes, hoses, and tanks, should be a key consideration.

Additionally, regular maintenance is vital to ensure your cleaner continues to perform at its best. Choose a model that’s easy to clean and maintain. Removable parts and washable filters are a plus, as they help extend the life of the machine and ensure peak performance over time.

Price and Warranty: Balancing Cost with Quality

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, remember that a high-quality carpet cleaner is an investment in your home’s cleanliness. A more expensive model may offer enhanced performance and durability, ultimately saving you money in the long run.

Look for a carpet cleaner with a good warranty, especially if you’re investing in a higher-end model. Warranties provide peace of mind and ensure that you’re covered in case the machine malfunctions within the first few years.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Carpet Cleaner for Pets

What is the best carpet cleaner for pet hair?

The best carpet cleaner for pet hair is one that offers strong suction power and a brush design that can effectively remove pet hair from deep within the carpet fibers. Models like the Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro and Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner are highly recommended for their ability to lift and extract pet hair, even from dense carpet types. Look for machines with a specialized pet hair removal tool or brush, as this will make a significant difference in cleaning efficiency.

How do I choose a carpet cleaner for pet stains and odors?

If you’re dealing with pet stains and odors, it’s crucial to pick a carpet cleaner with a stain-fighting formula and odor-neutralizing capabilities. Many pet-friendly carpet cleaners, like the Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro, come with specialized cleaning solutions designed to tackle both stains and odors. Additionally, models with heatwave technology can help ensure that the solution penetrates deeply to eliminate both organic stains and lingering smells.

Is a corded or cordless carpet cleaner better for pets?

The choice between a corded and cordless carpet cleaner depends on your cleaning needs. Corded models, such as the Hoover Power Scrub Elite, typically offer more powerful suction and larger water tanks, making them better for larger spaces or heavy-duty cleaning. However, if you’re looking for convenience and portability, a cordless model like the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Handheld Vacuum is perfect for quick clean-ups and smaller areas. Both have their advantages, but it’s important to select based on your home’s size and your preference for maneuverability.

Are there carpet cleaners specifically designed for pet urine and accidents?

Yes, many carpet cleaners are specifically designed to handle pet accidents. For pet urine, look for models like the Rug Doctor Pet Portable Spot Cleaner that have specialized stain-fighting formulas and powerful suction to lift urine from carpets and neutralize odors. Additionally, products with UV lights can help detect dried urine stains that are invisible to the naked eye. Always make sure the cleaner has a pet-specific formula to break down organic stains and eliminate odors effectively.

How often should I use a carpet cleaner on carpets with pets?

The frequency of carpet cleaning depends on the number of pets you have and how much shedding or accidents occur. For homes with one or two pets, cleaning every 2-3 weeks should be sufficient. However, if you have multiple pets or if your pets shed a lot, you may need to clean more frequently—perhaps once a week. Regular cleaning will not only keep your carpets looking fresh but will also help control allergens and pet dander.

Can a carpet cleaner remove pet odors permanently?

While no carpet cleaner can guarantee 100% permanent odor removal, many models are designed to neutralize pet odors effectively during each cleaning session. Cleaners like the Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro use special solutions that neutralize odors while deep cleaning your carpets. However, if your carpets have deep-set odors from repeated accidents, it may take a few cleaning sessions to fully eliminate the smell. Using a cleaner with a UV light for detecting hidden stains can also be helpful in removing persistent odors.

Do I need to use special cleaning solutions for pet stains?

While some carpet cleaners come with their own cleaning solutions designed specifically for pet stains, you don’t always need to purchase specialized pet solutions. However, it’s important to choose a cleaner that is safe for pets and effective at breaking down pet stains. Some cleaners, like those from Bissell or Hoover, offer pet-specific formulas that help to neutralize odors and break down organic matter. If you prefer a natural approach, you can opt for eco-friendly solutions that are safe for both your pets and the environment.

What’s the best carpet cleaner for a large home with multiple pets?

For a large home with multiple pets, you’ll want a high-performance carpet cleaner with strong suction power, a large water tank, and versatile cleaning tools. The Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro and Hoover Power Scrub Elite are excellent choices for large homes, as they can clean large areas quickly and effectively. Both models feature extra-large tanks for fewer refills and come with specialized pet tools to tackle fur, stains, and odors.

Can I use a carpet cleaner on all types of carpet?

Most carpet cleaners are designed to work on a variety of carpet types, including low-pile and high-pile carpets, as well as area rugs. However, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific carpet type. For delicate carpets, such as oriental rugs or antique pieces, you may want to use a more gentle cleaner or seek professional cleaning services to avoid damage. Be sure to test the cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area before full use to ensure it’s safe for your carpet.

How do I maintain my carpet cleaner for long-lasting performance?

To ensure your carpet cleaner continues to perform well, regular maintenance is key. Empty and rinse out the dirty water tank after every use, and clean the brush rolls and filters regularly to prevent buildup of dirt, hair, or pet dander. Some models may require periodic maintenance of the hoses and suction components to keep them working efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, and replace any worn-out parts, such as filters or brushes, as needed.

Conclusion

Finding the best carpet cleaner for pets doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right features and performance, you can keep your carpets looking new while managing the challenges of pet ownership. Based on our tests and reviews, the options we’ve highlighted are reliable, effective, and designed to tackle the messes that come with having pets.