Best Carpet Cleaners: I Used Real Life Messes as the Ultimate Test

CNET

10-07-2025

The Bissell Revolution HydroSteam is the best overall carpet cleaner I tested. It was the only carpet washer that effectively removed pet urine and pet odors from my carpet. It also came in second to the Tineco Carpet Cruiser with tough stain removal. But for $300 less than the Tineco, its price-to-value ratio is unbeatable.
Why I like it: While the Tineco Carpet Cruiser edged out the Bissell HydroSteam on the tough stain removal test, the Bissell blew away the competition on pet odor testing. It effectively removed the pet urine smell and dog dander odor and came in close second in tough stain removal. The pre-steam function is unique in that it helps lift those tough odors from the carpet fibers and loosen the stains before washing it. I also liked its larger water tanks and long cord. Unlike most other carpet cleaners, I didn't need to stop to empty or refill before completing the cleaning of my 500 square feet of carpet. With most carpet cleaners, I have to unplug and replug to clean my entire carpet -- not with the Bissell Revolution HydroSteam.
Who it's good for: This carpet cleaner is best for pet owners and parents -- especially cat owners, dog owners and toddler parents. During testing, the Bissell Revolution HydroSteam effectively removed pet urine odor and the lingering "dog smell" from my carpet. It also lifted tough stains like ketchup, red wine and chocolate syrup.
As a parent currently going through toddler potty training, removing tough stains and urine smells is key. In between sniff tests, I used lemon to cleanse my pallet and reset my sense of smell. When sniffing the carpet samples with the pet urine, I couldn't detect the urine smell after using the Bissell Revolution HydroSteam.
Any dog or cat owner knows there is a distinct pet odor -- not from potty accidents -- just from having pets. Their dander leaves an odor on my furniture and carpets. I waited two months to clean my own carpet to test which carpet cleaner could lift and deodorize that distinctive 'dog smell.' The Bissell Revolution HydroSteam was simply the best at eliminating and deodorizing pet smells.
Who shouldn't buy it: As much as I loved how well it performed, it is the heaviest of the bunch at 22.5 lbs. Also, the recline pedal needs more pressure than on the other machines I tested. A few times, I needed to kick it to get it to recline. This carpet cleaner isn't ideal for anyone who struggles with dexterity or carrying it up and down stairs.
As the second loudest, this carpet cleaner might not be good for those with sensitive hearing or for use while children are sleeping, as you might wake them (like I did).
If you simply need general foot traffic cleaning or you don't have pets, you're better off with a cheaper model, such as the Hoover SmartWash+ FlexForce or our budget pick, the Bissell Revolution Pet ProHeat 2X.