Tired of seeing unsightly stains and lingering odors on your cherished sofas, armchairs, or even car interiors? Finding the best steam cleaner for upholstery can be a game-changer, transforming your living space and extending the life of your furniture. Upholstery takes a beating from daily use, pet accidents, spills, and general grime, but with the right steam cleaner, you can effectively tackle these challenges, leaving fabrics fresh and clean. We’ve put some top contenders to the test to help you find the perfect machine to revive your home’s textiles. Say goodbye to dingy fabrics and hello to a cleaner, more inviting environment!
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Steam Cleaner For Upholstery Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner for Car Detailing.
The BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam is a standout for anyone serious about deep cleaning their upholstery. Its innovative HydroSteam Technology truly makes a difference, tackling tough, set-in stains and even oily messes that traditional cleaners might struggle with. This unit isn’t just a basic cleaner; it brings powerful steam to the forefront, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of fabrics.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ HydroSteam Technology: Provides up to 50% better cleaning for stubborn, stuck-on, and oily messes by combining steam, powerful suction, and OXY formula.
- ✓ Three Cleaning Modes: Offers SteamWash for tough stains, Steam for refreshing upholstery and grout, and Wash for enzyme-based stains like pet messes.
- ✓ Compact & Portable Design: Its small size makes it easy to maneuver and store, perfect for spot cleaning and detailing car interiors.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: Every purchase helps save homeless pets, adding a feel-good factor to your cleaning routine.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the BISSELL Little Green HydroSteam because it brings professional-level cleaning power into your home. The addition of steam makes a noticeable difference, especially on older stains or those tricky oily spots. It’s incredibly versatile, handling everything from pet accidents on the couch to a full car interior detail with impressive results, truly making it the best steam cleaner for upholstery we’ve tested.
Best For
This steam cleaner is best for pet owners, families with active kids, and anyone looking for a powerful, versatile solution to deep clean upholstery, carpets, and even hard surfaces like tile and grout.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Excellent stain removal, especially for oily and set-in messes, thanks to HydroSteam.
- ✓ Versatile with three distinct cleaning modes for various cleaning needs.
- ✓ Portable and lightweight, making it easy to carry and use anywhere.
- ✓ Supports a charitable cause with every purchase.
Cons:
- ✗ Smaller tank capacity might require frequent refills for larger jobs.
- ✗ Can be a bit noisy during operation, typical for deep cleaners.
- ✗ Requires BISSELL cleaning solutions for optimal performance.
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 Carpet, Upholstery, and Car Stains.
The BISSELL Little Green Mini is a fantastic solution for everyday spills and quick clean-ups, living up to its reputation as a highly effective portable upholstery cleaner. It’s designed for convenience, allowing you to tackle unexpected messes on carpets, furniture, and car interiors without much fuss. If you’re looking for a compact yet powerful machine to keep your upholstered items pristine, this mini deep cleaner is an excellent choice.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact & Portable: Designed for easy carrying and storage, making it perfect for quick clean-ups anywhere in your home or car.
- ✓ Multi-Surface Cleaning: Effectively sprays, scrubs, and suctions away embedded dirt and stains from carpets, upholstery, pet beds, and more.
- ✓ Allergen Removal: Helps save your sanctuary by tackling spills, pet stains, and removing dander, dust, and pollen allergens.
- ✓ Pet Foundation Support: Continues BISSELL’s mission of supporting BISSELL Pet Foundation to help save homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the BISSELL Little Green Mini for its impressive cleaning power packed into a small footprint. It’s an indispensable tool for pet owners and busy households, making quick work of common spills and pet accidents. Its ability to not only clean but also remove allergens adds significant value, making it a strong contender for the best steam cleaner for upholstery if portability and quick response are your priorities.
Best For
Ideal for individuals or families with pets, those living in smaller spaces, and anyone needing a highly portable and effective spot cleaner for upholstery, carpets, and vehicle interiors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Highly portable and lightweight for easy transport and use.
- ✓ Excellent at removing pet stains, dander, and general dirt.
- ✓ Versatile for various surfaces including upholstery, carpet, and car interiors.
- ✓ Simple to set up and operate, making quick clean-ups effortless.
Cons:
- ✗ Smaller water tanks require more frequent refilling for larger tasks.
- ✗ Lacks a heating element for water, relying on pre-heated water.
- ✗ Cord length might be restrictive in larger areas without an extension.
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. BISSELL Little Green Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner for Car Interiors and Spot Cleaning.
The classic BISSELL Little Green Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner remains a beloved staple for effective spot cleaning. It’s renowned for its robust suction and the ability to permanently remove a wide variety of stains and odors. This cleaner is a testament to reliable design, offering a straightforward and powerful solution for maintaining the cleanliness of your upholstery and carpeted areas without breaking the bank.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ America’s #1 Brand: Trusted by millions for its consistent performance in portable deep cleaning.
- ✓ Triple Action Formula: Utilizes a powerful cleaning solution to permanently remove over 100 common messes and stains.
- ✓ Strong Suction Power: Designed to lift and extract deep-seated dirt and liquids from upholstery and carpet fibers.
- ✓ Portable and Easy to Use: Its compact size and intuitive design make it simple to set up and deploy for unexpected spills.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the traditional BISSELL Little Green because it’s a proven workhorse that offers excellent value. It might not have the latest steam technology, but its powerful suction and specialized formula are highly effective for tackling everyday spills and set-in spots. If you need a reliable, no-frills upholstery cleaner that delivers on its promises, this model is an outstanding budget-friendly choice.
Best For
This cleaner is best for individuals and families seeking an affordable, reliable, and powerful spot cleaner for common spills, pet accidents, and general upholstery maintenance, particularly for car interiors and smaller areas.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Highly effective at removing a wide range of common stains and odors.
- ✓ Very affordable, offering great value for its cleaning power.
- ✓ Portable and easy to store, ideal for small spaces and quick access.
- ✓ Simple operation with clear water tanks for monitoring dirty water.
Cons:
- ✗ Lacks a built-in water heater; requires pre-heating water for best results.
- ✗ Can be a bit loud during operation.
- ✗ Hose length can be somewhat short for reaching distant spots.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve had my Little Green for years, and it’s still going strong! It’s pulled out countless stains from my couch and car seats, especially after my kids. It’s a lifesaver for pet messes too. Super easy to fill and empty, and the suction is surprisingly powerful for such a small machine. Definitely a household essential.”
Customer Review: “This cleaner saved my fabric dining chairs! We had an old wine stain that I thought was permanent, but after a couple of passes with the Little Green, it was gone. It’s compact enough to store in a closet and always ready when I need it. The only minor complaint is that it doesn’t heat the water itself, but that’s a small price to pay for how well it works.”
4. Portable Carpet Cleaner with Steam and Heat for Upholstery, Pet Stains, and Stairs.
This portable carpet cleaner stands out with its combination of steam and heat, providing a robust solution for deep cleaning. It’s not just about removing surface dirt; the strong suction and multiple cleaning modes ensure that stubborn stains and pet messes are thoroughly eradicated from various surfaces, including delicate upholstery. The integrated heating function helps to break down grime, making it a powerful contender for tackling challenging cleaning tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 18,000 PA Suction: Delivers exceptional suction to eliminate even the most stubborn pet stains and spots.
- ✓ Steam and Heat Functionality: Offers both steam and heated water options for enhanced cleaning and sanitization, loosening tough dirt.
- ✓ Multiple Cleaning Modes: Features Cold Water, Warm Water, Steam Clean, and Steam Sanitization modes to adapt to different messes and surfaces.
- ✓ Versatile Brush Tools: Comes with a 3″ hand tool, a 5″ wide tool, and an integrated crevice tool for precision cleaning in various areas.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this portable cleaner for its comprehensive cleaning capabilities, particularly its strong suction combined with steam and heat. This combination ensures a deeper clean and faster drying times, which is crucial for upholstery. The multiple tools and cleaning modes provide unmatched versatility, making it a powerful and effective steam cleaner for upholstery that can handle almost any challenge you throw at it.
Best For
This cleaner is best for households with significant pet traffic, frequent spills, and those who need a powerful, multi-mode machine capable of deep cleaning and sanitizing upholstery, carpets, and stairs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Very strong suction effectively lifts deep-seated dirt and liquid.
- ✓ Integrated steam and heat functions provide superior cleaning and sanitization.
- ✓ Highly versatile with multiple cleaning modes and specialized tools.
- ✓ Dries upholstery quickly due to powerful extraction and heat.
Cons:
- ✗ Might be slightly heavier than smaller, non-steam portable cleaners.
- ✗ Can take some time to heat the water to the desired temperature.
- ✗ Pricier than basic spot cleaners, reflecting its advanced features.
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. Shark StainStriker Portable Upholstery Cleaner for Carpet Stains and Odors in Cars.
The Shark StainStriker is a specialized portable upholstery cleaner designed for powerful tough stain elimination and odor neutralization. It leverages a unique dual-activated formula that mixes inside the machine, delivering an impressive 20x more stain-striking power. This makes it particularly effective for challenging pet messes and lingering odors in cars and around the home. If odors are a major concern, this upholstery cleaner is a fantastic option.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual-Activated Formula: Automatically mixes two powerful solutions internally for 20x more stain-striking power.
- ✓ Powerful Tough Stain Elimination: Designed to instantly and permanently remove even the most stubborn stains.
- ✓ Odors Removal: Specifically engineered to eliminate stubborn, lingering odors, including pet urine and smoke, for a truly fresh clean.
- ✓ Portable and Lightweight: Easy to carry and maneuver, perfect for spot cleaning carpets, upholstery, and vehicle interiors.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Shark StainStriker for its targeted approach to tough stains and odors. While it’s not a steam cleaner, its dual-activated formula and powerful suction provide exceptional results, especially for pet owners. If you’re struggling with deep-seated odors or particularly stubborn spots, this machine offers a potent chemical clean that can rival some steam-based units, making it an effective upholstery cleaning solution.
Best For
This portable cleaner is best for pet owners and individuals dealing with persistent odors and deeply embedded stains in upholstery, carpets, and car interiors who prefer a powerful chemical cleaning approach.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- ✓ Highly effective for eliminating stubborn stains and tough odors.
- ✓ Dual-activated formula provides powerful cleaning action.
- ✓ Excellent suction power for quick drying and thorough extraction.
- ✓ Compact and lightweight, making it very easy to use and store.
Cons:
- ✗ Relies on specific Shark cleaning solutions, which are an ongoing cost.
- ✗ Does not use steam or heat, which some users prefer for sanitization.
- ✗ Cord can sometimes be a bit short, requiring outlet changes.
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 “
Complete Buying Guide for Best Steam Cleaner For Upholstery
Choosing the best steam cleaner for upholstery can feel a bit overwhelming with so many options out there. But don’t worry, I’m here to help you break it down! Think of it like buying a new pair of shoes – you want them to fit well, be comfortable, and do the job you need them for. The right upholstery cleaner should make your life easier, not harder.
Essential Factors We Consider
When we look for a great upholstery cleaner, we’re really focusing on a few key things that make a big difference:
- Cleaning Power: This is paramount. Look for strong suction to pull out dirt and moisture, and if it has steam or heated water, even better for breaking down stubborn stains. Some units use specialized formulas which can be incredibly effective on pet messes.
- Portability & Size: Upholstery isn’t stationary! You’ll be cleaning sofas, chairs, car seats, and maybe even drapes. A lightweight, compact design with a comfortable handle and a decent hose length makes all the difference.
- Tank Capacity: Bigger tanks mean fewer refills, which is a blessing when you’re in the middle of a big job. However, larger tanks also mean a heavier machine, so it’s a trade-off with portability.
- Attachments & Tools: Different fabrics and angles require different tools. Look for various brush sizes, crevice tools, and maybe even wider nozzles for larger areas. The right attachment makes cleaning much more efficient.
- Drying Time: No one wants soggy upholstery for hours. Good suction helps minimize drying time, preventing mold or mildew growth. Models with heat can also accelerate drying.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: Can you easily fill and empty the tanks? Are the brushes simple to clean? A machine that’s user-friendly from start to finish will encourage you to use it more often.
Budget Planning
You don’t need to empty your wallet to get a good upholstery steam cleaner, but it’s important to set a realistic budget. Entry-level portable cleaners can range from $100-$150, offering solid spot-cleaning power without advanced features like steam. Mid-range options, typically $150-$250, often include features like heated cleaning or more specialized tools, providing a great balance of performance and cost. If you’re looking for top-tier performance with advanced steam technology, superior suction, and multiple cleaning modes, you might be looking at $250-$400+. Remember to factor in the cost of cleaning solutions, as many machines work best with their proprietary formulas.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best steam cleaner for upholstery for you depends on your specific needs. Are you dealing with frequent pet accidents, or just general wear and tear? Do you need true steam sanitization, or is powerful extraction enough? By considering these factors, you can narrow down your choices and find a cleaner that will keep your home looking and feeling fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use any cleaning solution in my upholstery steam cleaner?
A: It’s generally best to use the cleaning solutions recommended or provided by the manufacturer of your steam cleaner. Using incorrect solutions, especially harsh chemicals, can damage your machine, void the warranty, and potentially harm your upholstery. Always check your cleaner’s manual first.
Q: Is a steam cleaner safe for all types of upholstery?
A: While steam cleaners are excellent for many fabrics, they are not suitable for all. Delicate materials like silk, velvet, or certain types of leather can be damaged by high heat or moisture. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first and check your upholstery’s care label for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: How often should I steam clean my upholstery?
A: The frequency depends on how much traffic your upholstery sees. For high-traffic furniture or homes with pets and kids, cleaning every 3-6 months might be beneficial. For less-used items, once a year or as needed for spills and spots is usually sufficient. Regular vacuuming in between deep cleans can also help.
Q: How long does upholstery take to dry after steam cleaning?
A: Drying time can vary greatly depending on the cleaner’s suction power, the fabric type, how much moisture was used, and environmental factors like humidity. Generally, well-extracted upholstery can dry in 2-6 hours. Using a fan or opening windows can significantly speed up the drying process.
Q: Can a steam cleaner remove pet odors from upholstery?
A: Yes, many upholstery steam cleaners, especially those designed for pet owners, are highly effective at removing pet odors. Combining hot water (or steam), a good cleaning solution (often enzyme-based for pet messes), and powerful suction can break down and extract odor-causing bacteria from deep within the fabric fibers.
There you have it – our comprehensive guide to finding the best steam cleaner for upholstery to keep your home’s fabrics looking their best. From tackling stubborn pet stains to refreshing everyday grime, these machines offer powerful solutions to extend the life and beauty of your furniture. Don’t let dirty upholstery get you down; invest in one of these top picks today and enjoy a cleaner, fresher home tomorrow. Ready to make the smart choice? Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to find the perfect upholstery cleaner for your needs and start your cleaning journey!
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.
