We independently select all products and services. This article was written by a third-party company. If you click through links we provide, The Georgia Straight may earn a commission. Learn more

Top 5 Best Car Carpet Cleaners 2024

Best Car Carpet Cleaners

Maintaining the cleanliness of car carpets can pose a challenge, particularly when they regularly come into contact with pets, children, or food and drinks. Vacuuming alone often falls short in completely removing dirt and stains. This is where the value of car carpet cleaners comes in. A dependable car carpet cleaner can effectively remove dirt, stains, and odors from your vehicle’s carpet, providing a cleaner, more refreshing look and scent.

When looking for the best car carpet cleaner, there are a few things to consider. The first is the type of cleaner. There are two main types: foam and liquid. Foam cleaners are typically easier to apply and less messy, while liquid cleaners tend to be more effective at removing tough stains. The second thing to consider is the ingredients. You want to choose a cleaner that is safe for your car’s carpet and upholstery, as well as for you and your passengers.

We spent hours researching and testing various car carpet cleaners to identify the ones that work best. In this article, we will be sharing our top picks for the best car carpet cleaners. We will also be discussing the key factors to consider when choosing a car carpet cleaner, so you can make an informed decision and keep your car’s carpet looking and smelling like new.

Top 3 Best Car Carpet Cleaners

  1. Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner
  2. Chemical Guys Foaming Citrus Fabric Clean Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
  3. Hoover CleanSlate Plus Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner

We all love driving in a clean and fresh car, but sometimes spills and stains are unavoidable. That’s where car carpet cleaners come in handy. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing to bring you our top picks for the best car carpet cleaners. Whether you’re dealing with tough stains or just want to maintain a clean car interior, our list has got you covered.

1. Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner

If you’re looking for an effective and versatile carpet cleaner, the Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is a great option.

Pros

  • The powerful suction is great for removing tough pet spots and stains from carpets, upholstery, car interiors, and more.
  • The exclusive specialty tools, including the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Hose Tool and Spraying Crevice Tool, make cleaning even easier.
  • The portable and versatile design allows you to clean multiple surfaces throughout your home.

Cons

  • The 48 oz. tank may need to be refilled frequently if you’re cleaning large areas.
  • The machine can be a bit loud during operation.
  • The price point may be a bit high for some consumers.

We recently purchased the Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner and have been impressed with its performance. The powerful suction is able to remove even tough stains, and the specialty tools make cleaning upholstery and car interiors a breeze. We appreciate the portable design, which allows us to easily move the machine to different areas of our home.

One thing to note is that the tank may need to be refilled frequently if you’re cleaning larger areas. Additionally, the machine can be a bit loud during operation, which may be a consideration for some users. However, overall we’ve been very satisfied with our purchase and would recommend this product to anyone in need of a reliable carpet cleaner.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a portable and versatile carpet cleaner that can handle tough stains, the Bissell Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is definitely worth considering.

2. Chemical Guys Foaming Citrus Fabric Clean Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner

If you want a car carpet cleaner that delivers professional detailing results, Chemical Guys Foaming Citrus Fabric Clean Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner is the way to go.

Pros

  • Dissolves and removes dirt, odors, and stains from automotive carpets, fabrics, and upholstery with hi-sudsing, deep penetrating foaming bubbles.
  • Foaming action floats the particles directly to the surface of the material for easy cleanup with a microfiber towel or hot water extractor.
  • Detergent-free, low-moisture, and finishes with the soft feel of clean fabric.

Cons

  • The scent may be too strong for some people.
  • Some users reported that the foam doesn’t last long enough.
  • It may require multiple applications to remove tough stains.

We’ve tried Chemical Guys Foaming Citrus Fabric Clean Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner on several occasions and it never disappoints. The foaming action lifts and separates dirt particles and stains from deep within fabric in carpets and upholstery. We love that it’s biodegradable and safe to use on any water-safe indoor or outdoor fabric.

To use, shake well and dilute as desired. Vacuum the area to remove any loose dirt and debris. Spray the product on the surface to be cleaned and agitate the area gently with a brush. Blot and wipe the area dry with a premium microfiber towel. Vacuum or use an extractor for superior results.

Chemical Guys Foaming Citrus Fabric Clean Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner is highly concentrated and should be diluted one part product to 20 parts water. It works safely on all automotive vehicle brands, including Acura, Audi, BMW, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Fisker, Ford, GMC, Honda, Hummer, Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mazda, Mercedes, Mercury, Mini, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Pontiac, Porsche, RAM, Saab, Subaru, Tesla, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. It’s also safe to use on RV brands like Coachmen, Entegra, Forest River, Newmar, Thor Motor Coach, Winnebago, AirStream, K-Z, Keystone, and Midwest Automotive Designs.

Chemical Guys is more than a brand; it’s a lifestyle with a worldwide following. Beginners and professionals alike choose Chemical Guys for the finest car care products, world-class customer support, and vast detailing knowledge. If you’re looking for a car carpet cleaner that delivers professional detailing results, Chemical Guys Foaming Citrus Fabric Clean Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner is the way to go.

3. Hoover CleanSlate Plus Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner

If you’re looking for a portable and powerful carpet cleaner, the Hoover CleanSlate Plus Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner might be the right choice for you.

Pros

  • The powerful suction of this cleaner can remove tough pet stains and spots with ease.
  • The included tools, such as the 7″ WidePath Tool and TightSpot Tool, make it easy to clean messes of any size.
  • The Hose Rinse tool allows for easy cleaning of the machine after use.

Cons

  • The Dual Tank System may require frequent refills and emptying, especially when cleaning larger areas.
  • The cord may not be long enough for some users, depending on the location of outlets.
  • The cleaner may not be as effective on older or set-in stains.

We recently tried out the Hoover CleanSlate Plus Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner and were impressed with its performance. The powerful suction made it easy to remove tough pet stains and other messes from our carpets and upholstery. We especially appreciated the included tools, which made it easy to clean even the toughest spots and crevices.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Dual Tank System may require frequent refills and emptying, especially when cleaning larger areas. Additionally, the cord may not be long enough for some users, depending on the location of outlets. However, overall we found this cleaner to be a great choice for those looking for a portable and powerful carpet cleaner.

In conclusion, if you’re in need of a portable and powerful carpet cleaner, the Hoover CleanSlate Plus Carpet & Upholstery Spot Cleaner is definitely worth considering. Its powerful suction and versatile tools make it a great choice for removing tough stains and messes from carpets and upholstery.

4. Armor All Fabric and Carpet Cleaner for Cars

If you’re in search of a reliable car carpet cleaner, look no further than Armor All Fabric and Carpet Cleaner for Cars.

Pros

  • Penetrates deep into fabric and carpet fibers to remove even the toughest stains.
  • The rich foam lifts soil and debris, breaking up dirt and tough stains.
  • Restores the plush look and feel of fabric and upholstery.

Cons

  • Might have to redo once depending on the stain.
  • It can take a while to dry.
  • The quantity offered is very less.

This meticulously balanced formula is specifically designed for your car’s special needs, lifting away dirt and debris without harming delicate automotive surfaces. It’s a great option for those who want to restore their car’s interior to its former glory.

We found that this product works wonders on even the toughest automotive dirt and grime. It penetrates deep into fabric and carpet fibers, removing stains and restoring the plush, luxurious beauty of your car’s upholstery. The rich foam lifts soil and debris, breaking up dirt and tough stains, and it won’t discolor carpets or upholstery.

However, it’s worth noting that you might have to redo the cleaning process once depending on the stain. Additionally, it can take a while to dry, so be mindful of how much product you use. Lastly, the quantity offered is relatively less than other products on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend Armor All Fabric and Carpet Cleaner for Cars to anyone looking for a reliable, effective, and easy-to-use car carpet cleaner.

5. BISSELL® Little Green® Cordless Multi-Purpose Portable Deep Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Auto Detailer with 25V Lithium-Ion Battery, 3682 Little Green Cordless

If you’re looking for a portable and cordless carpet cleaner, the BISSELL® Little Green® Cordless machine might be the perfect fit for you. With its powerful suction and customized cleaning tools, this machine can handle tough stains and messes on upholstery, carpet, patio furniture, car interiors, and more.

Pros

  • The cordless convenience of a lithium-ion battery allows you to clean hard-to-reach spots and stains without being tethered to an outlet.
  • The machine offers two cleaning modes, Turbo and Eco, to customize your cleaning experience.
  • The BISSELL PRO OXY Spot & Stain with StainProtect formula tackles the toughest odors and messes and protects against future stains for instant and permanent stain removal.

Cons

  • The charge lasts up to 35 minutes in Eco mode, but it requires a substantial amount of time to recharge.
  • The unit needs to be refilled frequently, which can be time-consuming.
  • It does not do as well a job as the ones you can rent.

The BISSELL® Little Green® Cordless machine is a great choice for anyone who wants a portable and cordless carpet cleaner. It’s lightweight and compact, making it easy to store and transport in and out of the home. The machine’s customized cleaning tools are engineered for upholstery cleaning with a unique spray pattern delivering a consistent and even formula distribution to clean more with each pass.

We found that the machine’s powerful suction was able to loosen, lift, and remove tough stains with ease. The two cleaning modes, Turbo and Eco, allowed us to customize our cleaning experience to fit our needs. The Turbo mode delivers optimal suction power with up to 20 minutes of run time, while the Eco mode operates more quietly and extends the run time up to 35 minutes.

One of the standout features of the BISSELL® Little Green® Cordless machine is the BISSELL PRO OXY Spot & Stain with StainProtect formula. This formula tackles the toughest odors and messes and protects against future stains for instant and permanent stain removal. We found that it worked well on tough kid, pet, and everyday life messes on upholstery, carpet, patio furniture, car interiors, and everything in between.

However, we did find a few downsides to the machine. The charge lasts up to 35 minutes in Eco mode, but it requires a substantial amount of time to recharge. Additionally, the unit needs to be refilled frequently, which can be time-consuming. Finally, it does not do as well a job as the ones you can rent.

Overall, we would recommend the BISSELL® Little Green® Cordless machine to anyone who wants a portable and cordless carpet cleaner. It’s a great choice for those who need to clean hard-to-reach spots and stains on upholstery, carpet, patio furniture, car interiors, and more.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best car carpet cleaner, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your decision:

Cleaning Power

The most important feature to consider is the cleaning power of the product. Look for a cleaner that is specifically designed for automotive carpets and upholstery, as these products will be formulated to tackle the unique challenges of cleaning car interiors. Make sure the product you choose is powerful enough to remove tough stains and odors, but gentle enough to avoid damaging your car’s carpeting.

Ease of Use

Another important factor to consider is how easy the cleaner is to use. Look for a product that is easy to apply and doesn’t require a lot of elbow grease to get the job done. Ideally, the cleaner should also be easy to rinse away, leaving behind no residue or sticky residue.

Versatility

Some car carpet cleaners are designed to be used on a variety of surfaces, including upholstery, carpets, and even leather. If you’re looking for a versatile cleaner that can be used on multiple surfaces, be sure to choose a product that is safe and effective for all the surfaces you plan to clean.

Price

Finally, consider the price of the product. While it’s important to choose a high-quality cleaner that will get the job done, you don’t want to overspend on a product that doesn’t deliver. Look for a cleaner that strikes a balance between quality and affordability, and consider buying in bulk to save money over time.

By keeping these key features in mind, you’ll be able to choose the best car carpet cleaner for your needs and keep your vehicle looking and smelling fresh and clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most effective car carpet cleaning machines currently on the market?

There are several effective car carpet cleaning machines available on the market. Some of the best options include the Bissell SpotClean Pro, Hoover Power Scrub Elite, and the Rug Doctor Portable Spot Cleaner. These machines are designed to remove dirt, stains, and odors from car carpets and upholstery.

Which car carpet cleaner sprays offer the best results for stain removal?

Carpet cleaner sprays that contain enzymes are highly effective for removing tough stains from car carpets. These sprays break down the proteins in stains like blood, urine, and vomit, making them easier to remove. Some of the best options include the Folex Carpet Spot Remover and the Bissell Professional Power Shot Oxy.

How can pet stains and odors be best removed from car carpets?

Pet stains and odors can be difficult to remove from car carpets. The best way to remove these stains is to use a carpet cleaner spray that contains enzymes. For odors, a product like Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator can be highly effective. It’s also important to clean up any accidents as soon as possible to prevent the stain from setting.

What techniques do professional auto detailers use for deep cleaning car carpets?

Professional auto detailers use a variety of techniques to deep clean car carpets. This may include hot water extraction, steam cleaning, or dry cleaning. They may also use specialized tools like a crevice tool or upholstery brush to clean hard-to-reach areas. It’s important to note that some of these techniques may require specialized equipment and training.

What are the best practices for cleaning extremely dirty car carpets?

When dealing with extremely dirty car carpets, it’s important to vacuum the area thoroughly before applying any cleaning products. This will help to remove any loose dirt and debris. It’s also important to pretreat any stains with a carpet cleaner spray before using a carpet cleaning machine. For heavily soiled areas, it may be necessary to repeat the cleaning process multiple times.

Which upholstery cleaner machines are recommended for cleaning car interiors?

There are several upholstery cleaner machines that are recommended for cleaning car interiors. Some of the best options include the Bissell Little Green ProHeat, the McCulloch MC1385 Deluxe Canister Steam System, and the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner. These machines are designed to clean a variety of surfaces, including car carpets, upholstery, and leather.

Related Articles

Top 5 Best Trailer Tie Downs 2024

Tie downs for trailers are a crucial attachment for individuals ...

Top 5 Best Wheel Hubs 2024

Wheel hubs play a critical role in the wheel system ...

Top 5 Best Car Markers 2024

Automobiles are a necessary aspect of contemporary living. They’re employed ...