9 Best Carpet Cleaners for Pet Messes, According to Cleaning Pros
Say goodbye to pet odors and unsightly stains on your carpet.
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Even the best-trained pets have accidents—and they never seem to happen in easy-to-clean places. From muddy paw prints to cat urine to the occasional dog mess on carpets or upholstery, having a powerful enzyme-based cleaner paired with a reliable carpet-cleaning machine can make cleanup much less stressful.
Our top picks:
- Best overall: Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner
- Best value: Bissell Little Green Machine
- Best spray for stains: Bissell Professional Pet Stain and Odor Removing Formula
- Best for upholstery: Kenmore Portable Carpet Spot Cleaner & Pet Stain Remover
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care & Cleaning Lab, we’ve tested more than 40 carpet cleaners and stain removers on both industry-standard carpet swatches and stains we create ourselves, including ammonia-based solutions designed to mimic pet urine odors. We also send products home with consumer testers and staffers with pets to see how they perform on real-life messes in real homes.
Best Deal
Pros
- Cleans on forward pass, dries on backward pass
- Onboard container of stain solution
- Auto-dispenses
Cons
- Cord is a little shorter than other full-size models
This full-size carpet cleaner earned a Good Housekeeping Cleaning Award for its ability to lift both fresh and old stains. One tester used it to lift old pet stains from carpet and said it outperformed other models they’d tried.
Standout features include an onboard stain wand for targeted spot treatment and HeatForce technology, which helps carpets dry faster, so pets don’t have to stay out of the room as long. It also automatically switches from wash to dry mode on the backward pass for more efficient cleaning.
A 1-gallon clean water tank and 16-ounce formula tank take the guesswork out of mixing, automatically dispensing the right ratio as you clean. A 12-foot hose, pet tool, and stair tool help you tackle messes beyond the floor, while an included accessory bag keeps attachments organized and stored onboard. The 22-foot power cord is slightly shorter than some full-size models, but still long enough to reach most areas in typical homes.
| Weight | 20.5 lbs. |
| Cord Length | 22 ft. |
| Attachments | Two-in-one pet tool, stair tool, sample bottle of cleaning solution, 12-ft hose |
Pros
- Large tank
- Easy to clean, carry, and maintain
- Hose reaches tight spots
Cons
- Loud
You’ve likely seen this viral cleaner on TikTok over the past few years—it was one of the first portable carpet cleaners on the market and remains a top seller. Our pros have tested it multiple times in the GH Cleaning Lab and in home settings, where it consistently earns strong marks.
It’s especially well-suited for upholstery and furniture, thanks to a 4-foot hose that extends reach into tight spots other machines can’t access. The 48-ounce tanks also mean fewer refills and trips to empty, though it is louder than many competitors.
In testing, it performed well on both fresh and 24-hour-set stains, including red wine, blueberry pie filling, spaghetti sauce, and tea. In home use, it even removed a peanut butter stain from a light pink couch. When you’re done, disassembly is straightforward, and the included hydro-rinse tool helps flush the hose and clear out debris.
READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Bissell's Little Green Portable Carpet Cleaner
| Weight | 9.65 lbs. |
| Cord length | 15 ft. |
| Attachments | Tough stain tool, HydroRinse self-cleaning hose tool, spraying crevice tool |
Pros
- Works on carpets, upholstery, and mattresses
- Works well on food stains too
- Breaks down odors themselves
Cons
- Can take up to 72 hours to fully remove odors
Pet stains like dog and cat urine aren’t just unsightly—the lingering odor can actually encourage repeat accidents in the same spot. To prevent that cycle, our Lab pros say this Bissell spray is the clear top choice. Use a generous spray and blot, then cover the area with a damp cloth and let it sit for 12 to 72 hours. As it works, the enzymes break down odors at the source rather than masking them.
In testing, it effectively removed not only pet stains, but also food spills, and proved versatile on upholstery and mattresses, which is useful for everyday accidents as well. While it takes longer than most cleaners to fully work (up to 72 hours), our pros say the results are worth the wait.
| Size | 22 oz. |
| Safe for use on | Carpet, water-safe surfaces |
| Ezymatic cleaner | Yes |
Pros
- Continues to work for up to a week
- USDA Certified Biobased
- Great scent
- Highly effective on urine
Cons
- Does not disinfect
This probiotic-powered Mrs. Meyer’s Pet Spray does more than mask pet odors; it helps break them down at the source. The formula uses probiotic “micro-helpers” that continue working for up to seven days after spraying, using enzyme technology to tackle lingering stains and smells.
In testing, it removed stains effectively without leaving residue, and testers said it outperformed other pet sprays at eliminating urine odors. The light orange blossom scent was another highlight—it’s fresh and pleasant without being overpowering. We also like that the USDA Certified Biobased formula is free of bleach and hydrogen peroxide, and that it comes in a recyclable bottle. Just note: It’s designed to fight stains and odors, not disinfect surfaces.
| Size | 16 oz. |
| Safe for use on | Soft surfaces including carpets, rugs, upholstery, bedding, and clothing |
| Enzymatic cleaner? | Yes |
Pros
- Includes small and large cleaning heads
- Very long hose and large tanks
- Works with any brand of cleaning solution
Cons
- No hose cleaning feature
- On the heavier side
Small but mighty, the Kenmore SpotLite Portable Spot Cleaner earned a Cleaning Award for its large tanks, extra-long 6-foot hose, and two attachments (large and small), which make tackling fresh and set-in stains faster and easier. It’s also powerful enough to clean an entire sofa, including the back, in a single session.
The controls are intuitive, and the large tanks are easy to fill with clear markings for measuring solution for small or large jobs. In testing, it removed a range of stains—including grape juice, tomato sauce, and coffee—with strong results.
On the downside, it’s heavier than similar models, and it doesn’t include a hose-cleaning feature. That said, we were able to flush it with clean water before storage. Unlike some competitors, it isn’t limited to brand-specific formulas either. You can use any portable carpet cleaner solution without voiding the warranty.
RELATED: Best Portable Carpet Cleaners, Tested by Stain Removal Experts
| Weight | 10.23 lbs. |
| Cord length | 20 ft. |
| Attachments | Large and small upholstery tools |
Pros
- Easy to move around
- Caddy holds everything
- Lightweight, compact, and portable
Cons
- Small tank does not hold a lot of dirty liquid
Compact, lightweight, and easy to carry from room to room, the Shark StainStriker is a convenient option for tackling fresh spills before they set. The portable caddy keeps the vacuum and cleaning solution together, making quick cleanups feel less cumbersome.
The included oxy-powered spray helps loosen stains before suctioning them away, and in Lab testing it handled messes like wine and chocolate syrup effectively without oversaturating carpet. Its compact size also makes it easy to store between uses, but the tradeoff is a dirty water tank that's on the smaller side.
| Weight | 6.26 lbs. |
| Cord length | N/A |
| Attachments | Stain eliminator tool, crevice tool, grab & go caddy |
Pros
- Protects carpets against future stains
- Users like the scent
Cons
- Needs to be diluted and used with a machine
Sometimes an all-purpose cleaner just isn't enough to tackle stubborn pet messes, even with the best carpet cleaning machine. For tough pet messes, reach for Hoover's carpet shampoo to give your appliance the boost it needs. It has the ingredients necessary to break down stubborn stains and odors, including enzymes that tackle pet stains. According to the manufacturer, the formula also contains ingredients that protect carpets against future stains.
Several users highlighted the pleasant cotton breeze scent the cleaner leaves behind on cleaned surfaces. Just keep in mind that you shouldn't use this product without a carpet cleaning appliance. You'll also have to dilute the formula with water before adding it to your carpet cleaner machine.
| Size | 64 oz. |
| Safe for use on | Rugs, carpets, upholstery |
| Enzymatic cleaner? | Yes |
Pros
- Easy to maneuver for an upright
- Comes with two upholstery tools
- Has a quick-dry mode to help complete the task faster
Cons
- Heavier than portable options
The Revolution HydroStream Carpet Cleaner from Bissell (true carpet specialists, if you ask us) brings something truly special to the table. It uses steam to treat stains and clean, then harnesses a unique quick-dry mode to dry carpets faster, allowing you to tackle a tough task in what feels like record time.
In our tests, we steamed out tough messes, including mustard and wine stains, with ease. The controls are intuitive, the machine is easy to maneuver for a heavier upright, and our pros especially liked the two attachments: a two-in-one upholstery tool made specifically with pets in mind and a 6-inch tough stain tool. The large tank lets you clean expansive areas before refilling, and the long 8-foot hose lets you reach stairs and upholstery. It is, however, on the heavier side for a portable option.
| Weight | 22 lbs |
| Cord length | 25 ft. |
| Attachments | Two-in-one pet upholstery tool, 6-inch tough stain tool |
Pros
- Large capacity tank requires fewer fills
- Awarded gold rating by Carpet and Rug Institute
- Can be rented
Cons
- Heavy and hard to store
If you're looking to get a professional-level pet stain removal service at home without hiring a professional carpet cleaner, this full-size appliance from Rug Doctor might just be the one for you. With an almost 4-gallon clean water tank and a 2.6-gallon dirty water tank, you can clean large areas of your home without stopping to empty or refill the tanks. In tests, we were impressed with the results, and this particular model has even earned a gold rating from the Carpet and Rug Institute for soil removal, water removal, and gentleness.
Though this is the most expensive option on our list, the Mighty Pro X3 can be rented from your local hardware store for a fraction of the price as needed. A great option, according to our Lab pros, especially since this bulky 40-pound model is harder to store than most.
| Weight | 39.5 lbs. |
| Cord length | 22 ft. |
| Attachments | None |
How we test carpet cleaners
In the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab, floor and carpet cleaners are one of our most frequently tested categories. We test dozens of pet-fur-zapping vacuum cleaners, high-performing stick vacs, and even cleaners that will work across carpets and upholstered furniture throughout the year. By our last count, we have tested around 40 carpet cleaning machines and solutions in our Lab.
While we don’t actually recruit any pets to dirty our carpets, we do test carpet cleaners for their ability to remove many types of stains, including yellow ammonia meant to mimic pet urine. Full-size carpet-cleaning appliances are tested for how well they clean pre-soiled industry-standard carpet panels. All machines are used according to the manufacturer’s directions and passed over the test carpet an identical number of times.
In addition to taking color measurements to assess how well each full-size machine cleans, we also weigh the test carpets before and after testing to make sure they are not leaving too much moisture behind. Portable and handheld models are evaluated for how well they remove stains such as chocolate, coffee, and red wine from test carpets.
All carpet-cleaning machines, regardless of size, are also evaluated for how easy they are to use, how well their user manuals cover important information, and how easy they are to store. Models tested in consideration for our Cleaning Awards are also sent to a panel of consumer testers who provide us with valuable feedback from their own experience with the products.
Carpet cleaning sprays and shampoos are tested for their effectiveness on both fresh stains and stains that have been allowed to set overnight. We follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying the products and note how easy they are to use and to rinse from carpets. Product labels are carefully inspected for proper safety and usage instructions. Colleagues with pets also take pet formulas home to try on real-life pet messes.
What to look for when shopping for the best carpet cleaner for pets
First, decide whether a carpet-cleaning appliance or a spray is best suited to your needs. If you have a lot of carpet in your home, consider a carpet-cleaning appliance that lets you clean your carpets regularly without calling a professional service. If you think you'll only need something for a one-time clean-up or don't have the storage space for another appliance at home, consider buying a spray. Then, consider the following things according to the type of product you plan to purchase:
For carpet cleaning sprays/solutions:
✔️ Enzymes in the formula: Take a close look at the ingredients list and look for the enzyme protease. This enzyme can break down protein stains like egg and milk, as well as blood, urine, and other bodily fluids. Newer probiotic cleaners work similarly by breaking down stains and their associated odors.
✔️ Safe for carpet fibers: Make sure that the carpet cleaner you use is safe for dyed fibers or the type of fibers your carpets are made from. You can contact the manufacturer of your home's carpet to confirm the dyes are colorfast, or test the solution on a small, hidden area of the carpet before using it on the rest of your home.
✔️ Safe for use around pets: Lastly and possibly most importantly, check that the product you are using is safe to use around your pets. Some ingredients found in household cleaners can be harmful to pets, such as bleach and certain essential oils used for fragrance. Most cleaners specifically formulated for pet messes are also safe to use around pets, but pets should not have access to any of your cleaning supplies regardless of how safe a brand says its product is. Let recently cleaned surfaces dry completely before allowing pets to reenter the room.
For carpet-cleaning appliances:
✔️ Full-size vs. portable: Full-size upright carpet cleaners are heavy and often require a significant amount of floor space for storage. They are best suited for larger homes with lots of carpets, and many models include hoses and other tools for cleaning upholstery as well. Handheld and portable carpet cleaners are lighter and smaller, but require more back bending to use on carpets. Many portable and handheld models are cordless, which is convenient for cars and other outdoor spaces.
✔️ Tank size: If you don't mind carrying or pushing a few extra pounds around the house, opt for a model with large water tanks. With larger tanks, you can clean for longer before you have to empty or refill them. Remember to empty the dirty water tank after each use to prevent odors.
✔️ Extra features: Have upholstered furniture you want to clean at home too? Opt for a carpet cleaner with a hose and a rotating brush that can be used to clean furniture and carpeted stairs. Models with built-in heaters can help lift stains from carpets more effectively. If you're overwhelmed with the number of carpet shampoos available online, look for an appliance that comes with its own bottle of shampoo/cleaner.
✔️ Warranty: Most carpet cleaners come with a warranty covering issues one to five years after purchase. Before you use any solutions in your machine, read your appliance's warranty to make sure you aren't voiding any terms by using a cleaner other than the manufacturer's recommendation.
How often should you clean carpets if you have pets?
Vacuum carpets often—about twice a week—to keep them pet-hair-free. Deeper cleaning with a carpet cleaner machine and shampoo is only necessary once or twice per year if there are no stains. If you do notice a stain on your carpet, tackle it as soon as you can for a better chance of removing it completely. The longer a stain sits, the more difficult it is to remove.
What is the best DIY carpet cleaner for pet odors?
No DIY carpet cleaner will work as well as an enzyme cleaner, but in a pinch, you can quickly get rid of pet odors with an ingredient you already have at home: baking soda.
- Sprinkle a bit of baking soda over the smelly part of your carpet, making sure to cover the source completely.
- Allow it to sit for up to 30 minutes.
- Vacuum up the loose baking soda, then fluff the carpet fibers with your fingers. Repeat as necessary.
Why does my carpet still smell like pet urine after shampooing?
If your carpet still smells like pet urine after a deep cleaning, it’s probably because the urine reached below the carpet fibers into the padding beneath. While most carpet cleaners can tackle the messes in the topmost layer of carpets, reaching the padding is a little trickier.
Do not attempt to remove the carpet yourself to reach the padding or attempt to wet the carpet again with more water or carpet cleaning solution. Instead, allow the carpet to dry completely, then check whether you can still smell the urine. The smell may disappear once the carpet is dry. If the smell remains, call a professional carpet-cleaning service with the equipment needed to clean carpets more deeply than the machines you can purchase for home use.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Jodhaira Rodriguez was previously the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab reviews analyst. To put together this list of the best carpet cleaners for pets, she used data from past testing conducted by previous Cleaning Lab analysts and from her own more recent testing of several carpet-cleaning products.
Brigitt Earley is a freelance writer with 15 years of experience writing about home products, including household cleaners. She worked with Lab pros to replace older models with newer ones that performed exceptionally well in our most recent round of testing.
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