Tired of seeing unsightly stains and lingering odors on your beloved sofa, armchair, or even your car seats? A dedicated steam cleaner for upholstery can be a true game-changer, transforming your living spaces and bringing fabrics back to life. These powerful yet portable machines are designed to tackle everything from everyday spills and pet accidents to deep-seated grime and allergens, all while offering a fresh, hygienic clean.
In this roundup, we’ve put together a list of the best steam cleaner upholstery options available today. We’ve considered factors like suction power, portability, steam capabilities, and specialized features to help you find the perfect tool for your home. Say goodbye to dingy fabrics and hello to a cleaner, fresher living environment!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Steam Cleaner Upholstery Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Aut……
The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam is a true powerhouse, offering up to 50% better cleaning thanks to its innovative HydroSteam Technology. This multi-purpose portable cleaner is designed to tackle even the most stubborn, set-in stains and oily messes from carpets, upholstery, and car interiors. With three distinct cleaning modes, it’s a versatile solution for nearly any fabric-related clean-up task.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ HydroSteam Technology provides deep cleaning and lifts tough, stuck-on messes.
- ✓ Three versatile cleaning modes: SteamWash, Steam, and Wash for different stain types.
- ✓ Utilizes OXY formula to effectively remove set-in and enzyme-based stains.
- ✓ Portable and compact design for easy maneuverability and storage.
- ✓ Every purchase proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Why We Recommend It
This cleaner is a game-changer for anyone dealing with stubborn upholstery stains, especially pet owners. Its innovative HydroSteam technology truly makes a difference, lifting even old, set-in messes with ease. The versatility of its cleaning modes ensures you have the right tool for any type of spill, making it a highly effective and adaptable solution for your home.
Best For
Pet owners, households with frequent spills, or anyone needing a powerful, versatile solution for deep cleaning upholstery, carpets, and car interiors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- HydroSteam technology provides superior cleaning power, especially for oily stains.
- Three cleaning modes offer versatility for different stain types and fabrics.
- OXY formula effectively tackles tough, oily, and enzyme-based stains.
- Compact and portable design makes it easy to maneuver and store.
- Supports a good cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation).
Cons:
- May require frequent water refills for larger cleaning tasks.
- Hose length might be a limiting factor for some users.
- Can be a bit noisy during operation.
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 ou
2. BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Deep Cleaner for Carpets, Upholstery, and Tough Stains….
The BISSELL Little Green Mini Portable Deep Cleaner is a popular choice for tackling everyday spills and set-in stains on various surfaces. It employs a powerful spray, scrub, and suction action to lift embedded dirt, pet messes, and allergens from carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors. Compact and easy to use, it’s designed for convenience and effective spot cleaning.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful spray, scrub, and suction action for thorough cleaning.
- ✓ Removes embedded dirt, pet messes, dander, dust, and pollen allergens.
- ✓ Versatile application on carpets, upholstery, car interiors, and pet beds.
- ✓ Compact and highly portable design for easy storage and quick access.
- ✓ Every purchase contributes to the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Why We Recommend It
The BISSELL Little Green Mini is a household staple for quick and effective spot cleaning. Its powerful suction combined with the ability to spray and scrub makes it ideal for tackling unexpected spills and pet messes before they set in. It’s an excellent choice for maintaining a fresh home environment and a great example of a reliable portable steam cleaner for upholstery.
Best For
Pet owners, families with small children, or anyone needing a reliable, easy-to-use solution for everyday spot and stain removal on carpets and upholstery.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for quick spot cleaning and minor spills on various surfaces.
- Strong suction effectively lifts embedded dirt and stains.
- Compact size makes it highly portable and easy to store.
- Multipurpose use on carpets, upholstery, and auto interiors.
- Contributes to pet rescue efforts.
Cons:
- Smaller tank capacity requires more frequent refills for larger areas.
- Lacks a dedicated steam function for sanitization.
- Can be a bit loud during use.
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 ca
3. Shark StainStriker Portable Cleaner: Effective Stain and Odor Remover for Upholstery and Carpets….
The Shark StainStriker Portable Cleaner is engineered to deliver powerful stain and odor removal, making it an excellent choice for homes with pets or frequent spills. Its dual-activated formula mixes automatically to provide 20x more stain-striking power. This portable carpet and upholstery cleaner excels at instantly and permanently removing stubborn odors, from pet urine to smoke, leaving your fabrics fresh.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual-activated formula for 20x more powerful tough stain elimination.
- ✓ Specifically designed as a pet mess extractor for deep cleaning.
- ✓ Instantly and permanently removes stubborn odors like pet urine and smoke.
- ✓ Portable and lightweight design with a bonus XL tool for versatile use.
- ✓ Effective on both carpets and various types of upholstery.
Why We Recommend It
If persistent odors and tough pet stains are your biggest challenge, the Shark StainStriker is engineered to tackle them head-on. Its unique dual-activated formula provides exceptional cleaning power, making short work of messes you thought were permanent. It’s particularly impressive at neutralizing pet odors, making it a great upholstery steam cleaner for pet stains.
Best For
Pet owners struggling with tough stains and persistent odors, or anyone needing a powerful, portable cleaner specifically designed for deep odor and stain elimination on upholstery and carpets.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Dual-activated formula provides highly effective stain removal.
- Excellent at permanently eliminating stubborn odors, including pet urine.
- Comes with useful accessories like the XL tool.
- Portable and lightweight for easy handling and storage.
- Good for quick clean-ups and deeper spot treatments.
Cons:
- Relies on specific Shark solutions for optimal performance.
- Smaller capacity compared to full-size cleaners.
- Might require multiple passes for very old, set-in stains.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Only room in house with carpet is closet so needed something small to clean a mess my dog made.This little machine is easy to use and has great suction. Area dried quick. Picture shows an area I started that had dried pee I didn’t know was there. So picture shows the spot cleaned and no stain. Of co
Customer Review: I used it to detail my car seats that got some really bad stains.Excellent suction power, quiet, convenient size and weight. I liked that you could focus on cleaning and don’t have to change the tanks often. It was so efficient that I advanced faster than expected. The different tools are also very
4. Portable Steam Carpet Cleaner with Heating Technology for Upholstery, Pets, and Furniture….
This Portable Steam Carpet Cleaner is a comprehensive solution for deep cleaning various surfaces, including upholstery, pet beds, and furniture. Boasting an impressive 18,000 PA of suction power, it effortlessly lifts stubborn stains and spots. What truly sets it apart is its heating technology, which offers multiple cleaning modes, including dedicated Steam Clean and Steam Sanitization functions for a truly hygienic result.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Impressive 18,000 PA strong suction power for effective stain elimination.
- ✓ Multiple cleaning modes: Cold Water, Warm Water, Steam Clean, and Steam Sanitization.
- ✓ Heating technology for enhanced cleaning, stain breakdown, and sanitization.
- ✓ Equipped with a 3″ hand tool, 5″ wide tool, and integrated crevice tool for precision.
- ✓ Ideal for stubborn pet stains on carpets, upholstery, and car interiors.
Why We Recommend It
This portable steam cleaner stands out with its powerful suction and comprehensive cleaning modes, offering more than just basic stain removal. The built-in heating technology for steam sanitization is a significant advantage, providing a deeper, more hygienic clean for your upholstery and carpets, especially beneficial for pet messes. It’s a top contender for the best steam cleaner for upholstery if sanitization is key.
Best For
Users seeking a versatile cleaner with powerful suction and steam sanitization capabilities for a truly deep clean on various surfaces, particularly those with pets or concerns about hygiene.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High suction power (18,000 PA) for effective stain extraction.
- Multiple cleaning modes, including steam, for versatile use.
- Heating technology provides sanitization benefits, killing germs and bacteria.
- Includes a range of specialized brushes for precision cleaning.
- Excellent for pet messes and general upholstery maintenance.
Cons:
- May have a higher price point due to advanced features.
- The steam function might require a warm-up time.
- Specific brand solutions might be recommended for best results.
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, c
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 differe
5. BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Deep Cleaner for Upholstery, Pet Stains, and Hair….
The BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro Portable Deep Cleaner lives up to its name, offering BISSELL’s “strongest suction” to tackle tough pet stains and embedded hair on upholstery, carpets, and even auto interiors. It delivers professional-style cleaning results right in your home, making it an invaluable tool for any pet owner. Plus, every purchase helps support a wonderful cause: the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ BISSELL’s strongest suction for superior cleaning power on pet messes.
- ✓ Professional-style deep cleaning results for carpets and upholstery.
- ✓ Specifically designed to remove pet stains, odors, and embedded pet hair.
- ✓ Portable and compact for easy use on various surfaces, including car interiors.
- ✓ Every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation’s mission.
Why We Recommend It
For dedicated pet owners, the BISSELL Little Green Pet Pro is an essential tool. Its “strongest suction” claim isn’t just marketing; it genuinely delivers impressive results on pet accidents, embedded hair, and everyday grime. You get professional-level cleaning without the hassle or cost of rentals, making it a truly effective steam cleaner for pet upholstery.
Best For
Pet owners who frequently deal with pet stains, odors, and hair on upholstery, carpets, and car interiors, seeking a powerful, professional-grade portable solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional suction power for thorough pet mess removal.
- Designed specifically to tackle tough pet stains and hair effectively.
- Delivers professional cleaning results at home, saving on rentals.
- Portable and convenient for quick clean-ups and deeper treatments.
- Contributes to a worthy cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation).
Cons:
- May require specialized BISSELL cleaning formulas for optimal results.
- No dedicated steam feature for sanitization.
- Hose and power cord length could be restrictive for very large areas.
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 ou
Complete Buying Guide for Best Steam Cleaner Upholstery
Choosing the best steam cleaner for upholstery can feel a little overwhelming with all the options out there. To help you make an informed decision, let’s break down the key factors we considered in our reviews and what you should look for when shopping for your own portable upholstery cleaner.
Essential Factors We Consider
When you’re investing in a new upholstery steam cleaner, there are a few features that truly make a difference in its performance and your overall experience. We always pay close attention to:
- Suction Power: This is arguably the most critical factor for an upholstery deep cleaner. Strong suction means more dirty water and cleaning solution are extracted, leading to faster drying times and fewer chances of mold or mildew. Look for models with high PA (Pascals) ratings if provided, or simply strong user reviews on extraction efficiency.
- Tank Capacity: How much water and solution can it hold? A larger tank means fewer refills, which is great for bigger jobs. However, a smaller tank makes the unit more portable and lighter, ideal for quick spot treatments or cleaning car interiors. Consider your typical cleaning needs.
- Portability and Size: Since you’ll likely be moving the cleaner around furniture and potentially to your car, a lightweight, compact design with a good handle and wheels (if applicable) is essential.
- Attachments and Tools: Different brushes and nozzles are designed for specific tasks. A crevice tool is great for tight spots, a wider brush for larger areas, and a specialized pet tool for embedded hair. The more versatile the attachments, the more comprehensive your cleaning will be.
- Heating and Steam Function: While all the cleaners here involve hot water for deep cleaning, some specifically feature a true steam function. This offers sanitization benefits, breaking down stubborn grime and killing bacteria. If hygiene is a top priority, prioritize models with dedicated steam or hydrosteam technology.
- Cleaning Solution Compatibility: Some machines work best with their proprietary solutions, while others are more flexible. Always check what type of cleaning solution is recommended or required to ensure optimal results and avoid damaging your unit.
- Ease of Use and Maintenance: Look for easy-to-fill and empty tanks, straightforward controls, and components that are simple to clean after use. A hassle-free experience encourages more frequent cleaning.
Budget Planning
The price range for quality upholstery cleaners can vary quite a bit, from around $100 for basic spot cleaners to $300+ for models with advanced features like integrated heating and multiple cleaning modes. It’s smart to set a budget, but also consider what features are non-negotiable for your specific needs. If you have pets, investing a bit more in a unit known for strong suction and pet-specific features will likely save you money and headaches in the long run compared to a cheaper model that struggles with pet messes. Factor in the ongoing cost of cleaning solutions too, as these are recurring expenses.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best steam cleaner upholstery for you depends on your individual circumstances. If you’re tackling daily pet messes, look for strong suction and pet-specific features. If sanitization is your main goal, a model with true steam capabilities is worth the investment. For general spills and everyday upkeep, a compact, easy-to-use portable deep cleaner might be perfect. By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying cleaner, fresher, and healthier upholstery throughout your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a steam cleaner on all types of upholstery?
A: It depends on the fabric. Always check the manufacturer’s care tag on your upholstery. Delicate materials like silk, velvet, or certain blends may not be suitable for steam cleaning. It’s always a good idea to test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure there’s no discoloration or damage before proceeding.
Q: What’s the difference between a steam cleaner and a deep cleaner/extractor for upholstery?
A: A traditional steam cleaner uses hot steam to loosen dirt, sanitize surfaces, and kill bacteria. A deep cleaner (or extractor) typically sprays a water-and-solution mixture onto the fabric, agitates the fibers with a brush, and then suctions up the dirty liquid. Some modern machines, like the BISSELL HydroSteam models, combine both functions for a more comprehensive clean.
Q: How often should I steam clean my upholstery?
A: For general maintenance, cleaning your upholstery every 6-12 months is usually sufficient to keep it fresh and extend its lifespan. However, if you have pets, small children, or frequently entertain, you might want to clean more often, or at least spot clean as needed to address spills and messes promptly.
Q: Do I need to use cleaning solutions with a steam cleaner?
A: Many steam cleaners are designed to work effectively with water alone for sanitization and general refreshing. However, for tough stains, embedded dirt, and stubborn odors, using a compatible cleaning solution (often provided by the manufacturer or recommended in the manual) can significantly improve results. Always check your machine’s manual for recommended solutions and dilution ratios.
Q: Is it safe to use a steam cleaner on pet messes?
A: Yes, many portable steam cleaners are specifically designed and highly effective for pet messes. Steam can help break down organic matter, sanitize the area, and neutralize odors. For heavily soiled areas, it’s often best to pre-treat the stain with an appropriate solution and then follow up with a thorough steam cleaning and extraction.
Choosing the best steam cleaner for upholstery is an investment in the cleanliness and longevity of your furniture. Whether you’re battling persistent pet stains, general grime, or simply want to refresh your living spaces, one of these top-rated portable cleaners is sure to meet your needs. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect match for a sparkling clean home. Happy cleaning!
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.
