Dealing with pet messes is a universal challenge for pet parents, but finding the best steam cleaner for pets can truly revolutionize your cleaning routine. From muddy paw prints to unexpected accidents on carpets and upholstery, a reliable steam cleaner is your secret weapon. These powerful machines don’t just clean; they sanitize using the natural power of steam, making your home a cleaner, fresher, and healthier environment for both you and your beloved animals. We’ve meticulously tested and rounded up the top contenders to help you choose the perfect cleaning companion that tackles even the toughest pet-related stains and odors.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Steam Cleaner For Pets Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Cleaner for Pet Carpet and Upholstery Stains.
The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Cleaner stands out as an exceptional choice for any pet owner. Its innovative HydroSteam Technology tackles even the most stubborn pet stains and messes, delivering a thorough clean that truly refreshes your home. Plus, knowing that every purchase helps homeless pets adds an extra layer of satisfaction to this powerful cleaning tool.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ HydroSteam Technology: Offers up to 50% better cleaning for set-in, tough, and oily pet messes.
- ✓ 3 Cleaning Modes: Features SteamWash for tough messes, Steam for refreshing, and Wash for enzyme-based stains.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: A portion of every sale goes towards helping homeless pets.
- ✓ Versatile Cleaning: Effective on carpets, upholstery, and even tile & grout.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend this cleaner because it combines powerful steam cleaning with dedicated features for pet owners. The multi-mode functionality means you’re prepared for any kind of mess, from a fresh spill to deeply embedded grime. It’s truly an all-in-one solution for maintaining a pristine, pet-friendly home.
Best For
This cleaner is best for pet owners who frequently deal with various types of pet stains, including tough, oily, or set-in messes, and desire a versatile tool for multiple surfaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional stain removal power with HydroSteam technology.
- Versatile with three distinct cleaning modes for different needs.
- Compact and portable design makes it easy to use anywhere.
- Supports a charitable cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation).
Cons:
- Small tank size might require frequent refills for larger areas.
- Steam function might require a short warm-up time.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Works great. Removed all stains and left a very clean appearance on our lobby furniture. Easy to use. Light weight even filled with the water. The stem feature was amazing. I highly recommend this small unit over renting a large capacity cleaner. Worth the money and time saved.”
Customer Review: “If you have pets, this machine is absolutely worth it. I can’t believe how much cleaner my carpets, furniture, and even my car seats look after using the Little Green Pet Pro. It pulled up stains I thought were permanent — old accidents, muddy paw prints, and mystery spots that just wouldn’t come out.”
2. BISSELL Little Green Portable Deep Cleaner: HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool for Pet Stains.
The BISSELL Little Green Portable Deep Cleaner is a classic for a reason, now enhanced with the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool. This compact yet powerful machine is a lifesaver for tackling spills and various pet stains quickly and effectively. It’s perfect for maintaining a fresh home, addressing everything from everyday dirt to allergens, while supporting a great cause.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool: Makes cleaning the hose and machine after use incredibly easy.
- ✓ Multi-Surface Cleaning: Effectively cleans carpets, upholstery, car interiors, and pet beds.
- ✓ Removes Allergens: Helps clear dander, dust, and pollen for a cleaner air environment.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: A portion of your purchase contributes to saving homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
This portable deep cleaner earns our recommendation for its proven effectiveness on tough pet stains and its excellent versatility. The HydroRinse feature is a game-changer for maintenance, ensuring the machine itself stays clean and ready for the next mess. It’s a reliable choice for spot cleaning and keeping your home smelling fresh.
Best For
Ideal for pet owners needing a highly portable and efficient spot cleaner for various surfaces, especially those looking for easy machine maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for targeted spot and stain removal.
- Self-cleaning hose tool simplifies maintenance significantly.
- Compact design allows for easy storage and portability.
- Helps remove common household allergens.
Cons:
- Smaller tanks may require frequent refills for larger clean-ups.
- Lacks steam function, relying on water and cleaning solution.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Vacuum is an absolute must-have for spot cleaning. Don’t let the size fool you—this little machine is powerful and works incredibly well on carpets, rugs, upholstery, and car interiors. It easily lifts stains, pet messes, and ground-in dirt that regular vacuums.”
Customer Review: “I wanted to wait to write a review until I had tested the Little Green on multiple types of stains on various fabrics/carpets, and it has not disappointed. So far, I’ve had 100% success cleaning up cat vomit, dog bile, and mud. These stains were cleaned off a wool throw rug, nylon/polyester blend carpet.”
3. BISSELL TurboClean Pet Upright Cleaner for Carpet and Upholstery Pet Stain Removal.
The BISSELL TurboClean Pet Upright Cleaner is an excellent choice for pet parents seeking a budget-friendly yet effective solution for larger carpeted areas. This upright cleaner makes quick work of wide cleaning paths, ensuring your carpets and upholstery are refreshed from unsightly pet stains and odors. It’s designed to make cleaning faster, so you can enjoy more time with your furry friends.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Wide Cleaning Path: Features a 10-inch cleaning path for faster coverage of carpets and rugs.
- ✓ Above-Floor Cleaning: Includes a 3-inch Tough Stain Tool for upholstery, stairs, and tight spots.
- ✓ Lightweight Design: Easy to maneuver around your home and transport between rooms.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Effectively removes dirt, hair, and stains from various surfaces.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the TurboClean Pet Upright for its impressive cleaning power and efficiency at an accessible price point. It’s particularly great for those who need to clean larger carpeted areas regularly but also appreciate the flexibility of tackling upholstery and stairs with its integrated tools. It balances performance with value, making it a smart investment for pet owners.
Best For
This cleaner is best for pet owners who primarily need to clean larger carpeted areas, want an upright machine, and are looking for a powerful solution on a budget.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable and offers great value for its cleaning capabilities.
- Wide cleaning path covers more ground quickly.
- Lightweight and easy to push, making carpet cleaning less strenuous.
- Effective on tough pet stains on both carpets and upholstery.
Cons:
- May not be as ideal for very small, intricate spot cleaning tasks.
- Requires more storage space than a compact portable cleaner.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This Bissell carpet cleaner makes cleaning up after pets quick and effective. The PowerBrush technology lifts dirt, hair, and stains from carpets and rugs with ease. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, perfect for stairs, small areas, and spot-cleaning. The formula works well with the machine to.”
Customer Review: “I never review products, and for that reason I felt it necessary to tell everyone how impressed I am with this carpet cleaner. I’ve owned my own machine for 15+ years until it recently died. I’ve also hired companies over the years to clean for me when I didn’t have time to do it myself or when I.”
4. Portable Steam Cleaner with Heating Technology for Pet Stains on Carpet and Upholstery.
This portable steam cleaner stands out with its integrated heating technology, delivering superior results for those tough pet stains on various surfaces. With impressive suction power and multiple cleaning modes, it’s designed to tackle everything from fresh spills to deeply embedded dirt. This cleaner is your reliable partner for maintaining a spotless and hygienic home environment, making it a strong contender for the best steam cleaner for pets.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Strong Suction Power (18,000 PA): Effortlessly lifts stubborn stains and spots from various surfaces.
- ✓ Multiple Cleaning Modes: Offers Cold Water Clean, Warm Water Clean, Steam Clean, and Steam Sanitization for diverse challenges.
- ✓ Versatile Brush Tools: Comes with a 3″ hand tool, a 5″ wide tool, and an integrated crevice tool for precision cleaning.
- ✓ Heating Technology: Enhances cleaning effectiveness by applying heat to break down tough stains.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this portable steam cleaner due to its robust suction and advanced heating technology, which work together to effectively deep clean and sanitize. The variety of cleaning modes and specialized brushes make it incredibly versatile, allowing you to confidently tackle almost any pet mess on virtually any surface, from carpets to car interiors.
Best For
This cleaner is best for pet owners who need a highly versatile and powerful portable cleaner that offers both deep cleaning and sanitization options for diverse cleaning needs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional suction power for deep stain extraction.
- Heated cleaning technology provides enhanced stain removal and sanitization.
- Multiple cleaning modes cater to different types of messes and surfaces.
- Includes a comprehensive set of tools for targeted cleaning.
Cons:
- May be slightly heavier than non-heated portable models.
- Requires an electrical outlet, limiting ultimate cordless portability.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This portable carpet cleaner punches above its size, tackling spills, pet messes, and ground-in stains with impressive suction. It’s easy to fill, heats quickly, and the brush head agitates fibers without damage. Noise is moderate, and the small tank needs refills for big jobs, but for apartments, carpet.”
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded. As the owner of a cream-colored couch and a clumsy husband who recently spilled an entire glass of red wine, this portable carpet cleaner has earned its place as my new favorite household tool! I’ve had it for about 10 days now and have already used it for three different.”
5. BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Deep Cleaner: Excellent for Pet Stains and Hair Removal.
The BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Deep Cleaner lives up to its “Pro” designation, offering professional-style cleaning results specifically for pet owners. With its robust suction power, it excels at removing both challenging pet stains and embedded pet hair from carpets and upholstery. This powerful little machine not only cleans effectively but also supports a great cause, making it a fantastic choice for any home with pets.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Strongest Suction: Engineered to provide superior suction compared to leading competitors for deeper cleaning.
- ✓ Professional-Style Cleaning: Delivers results comparable to rental units, right in your home.
- ✓ Pet Stain and Hair Removal: Specifically designed to tackle tough pet messes and embedded pet hair.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: A portion of every purchase helps save homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
This cleaner is highly recommended for pet owners who want professional-grade cleaning at home without the hassle of rentals. Its exceptional suction power means even the most stubborn pet hair and stains don’t stand a chance. It’s a dedicated and powerful solution for maintaining a truly clean and odor-free pet living space.
Best For
Ideal for pet owners who need the strongest possible portable deep cleaner to combat severe pet stains and significant pet hair accumulation on carpets and upholstery.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Boasts the strongest suction among portable deep cleaners for superior results.
- Specifically formulated to tackle both pet stains and pet hair effectively.
- Provides professional-level cleaning without needing to rent equipment.
- Compact and portable for easy spot cleaning and storage.
Cons:
- Premium price point compared to some other portable models.
- Requires frequent emptying and refilling for larger cleanup tasks.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Works great. Removed all stains and left a very clean appearance on our lobby furniture. Easy to use. Light weight even filled with the water. The stem feature was amazing. I highly recommend this small unit over renting a large capacity cleaner. Worth the money and time saved.”
Customer Review: “If you have pets, this machine is absolutely worth it. I can’t believe how much cleaner my carpets, furniture, and even my car seats look after using the Little Green Pet Pro. It pulled up stains I thought were permanent — old accidents, muddy paw prints, and mystery spots that just wouldn’t come out.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Steam Cleaner For Pets
Choosing the best steam cleaner for pets can feel overwhelming with so many options available. We get it! It’s not just about cleaning; it’s about restoring peace of mind in your home. Let’s walk through the most important things to consider so you can make an informed decision and pick the perfect steam cleaner for your furry family.
Essential Factors We Consider
When looking for a steam cleaner for pet stains, we focus on a few key areas. Suction power is paramount; the stronger the suction, the more dirty water and grime it can pull out, leading to faster drying times and truly clean surfaces. Next, consider the heating capabilities – machines with actual steam or heated water technology tend to break down stubborn, set-in pet messes much more effectively than cold water cleaners. Portability and versatility are also critical. Do you need a compact spot cleaner for quick accidents, or an upright machine for larger carpeted areas? Make sure it comes with attachments for different surfaces, like upholstery tools for your furniture or crevice tools for tricky corners. Lastly, ease of cleaning and maintenance is vital; features like self-cleaning hoses or easily detachable tanks will save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
Budget Planning
Steam cleaners designed for pets come in a wide range of prices, and it’s important to align your expectations with your budget. Entry-level portable spot cleaners are often more affordable, excellent for tackling small, localized pet messes without breaking the bank. Mid-range options typically offer more power, larger capacities, and additional features like heated cleaning or more specialized tools. High-end models, often upright deep cleaners or those with advanced steam technology, provide the most comprehensive cleaning for entire rooms and very stubborn stains. Consider how frequently you’ll use the cleaner and the extent of the messes you typically face. Remember, investing a little more upfront can often lead to greater durability and more effective cleaning, saving you money on professional cleaning services in the future.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best steam cleaner for pets is one that fits your specific needs and lifestyle. Think about the types of messes your pets create, the surfaces you need to clean, and how often you’ll be using the machine. Whether it’s a small, mighty spot cleaner or a robust upright deep cleaner, a good steam cleaner will transform your pet-friendly home into a cleaner, fresher, and more hygienic space. Don’t underestimate the power of a dedicated tool to manage those inevitable pet accidents and keep your home smelling and looking its best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can steam cleaners truly remove old, set-in pet stains and odors?
A: Yes, many high-quality steam cleaners, especially those with advanced heating technology or specialized pet formulas, are highly effective at breaking down and extracting old, set-in pet stains. The heat from the steam, combined with strong suction and appropriate cleaning solutions, can often revitalize even stubborn spots and significantly reduce lingering odors.
Q: Are steam cleaners safe to use on all carpet and upholstery types?
A: While generally safe, it’s crucial to check your carpet and upholstery manufacturer’s guidelines before using a steam cleaner. Delicate fabrics like silk or certain antique rugs might not be suitable for steam. Always perform a patch test in an inconspicuous area first to ensure there’s no discoloration or damage. Most synthetic carpets and durable upholstery, however, handle steam cleaning very well.
Q: How often should I use a steam cleaner if I have pets?
A: The frequency depends on your pets and their habits. For routine maintenance and to address pet dander and allergens, a full carpet cleaning once every 3-6 months is often recommended. For accidental spills or specific pet stains, you should spot clean immediately to prevent the stain from setting in. Regular vacuuming in between deep cleans will also help keep your home fresh.
Q: What’s the difference between a steam cleaner and a carpet shampooer?
A: A true steam cleaner uses only hot water vapor to sanitize and clean, often without chemicals. A carpet shampooer (or deep cleaner), which is what many “steam cleaners for pets” actually are, typically uses hot water mixed with a cleaning solution, sprays it onto the carpet, agitates it with brushes, and then suctions the dirty water back up. While both are excellent for pet messes, deep cleaners often incorporate detergent for more thorough stain and odor removal, whereas pure steam focuses on sanitization.
Q: Do I need special cleaning solutions for pet stains with a steam cleaner?
A: Many manufacturers recommend using their brand-specific formulas, especially for machines designed for pet messes. These solutions often contain enzymes that break down organic matter found in pet urine, feces, and vomit, effectively neutralizing odors. While some machines can use just water, a pet-specific formula will significantly enhance the cleaner’s ability to tackle tough pet stains and lingering smells.
There you have it! Finding the best steam cleaner for pets doesn’t have to be a daunting task. We’ve explored some fantastic options, each with unique strengths to help you tackle everything from minor mishaps to major pet messes. No matter which model you choose, investing in a quality steam cleaner is an investment in a cleaner, fresher, and happier home for you and your beloved furry companions. Ready to make pet messes a thing of the past? Click on your favorite cleaner above and reclaim your pristine home today!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
