5 Best Cheap Carpet Cleaners of 2024 – Budget-Friendly Options That Actually Work

If you're on the hunt for a budget-friendly carpet cleaner that won't disappoint, you're in luck. The top 5 cheap options of 2024 pack a punch, delivering impressive performance at a fraction of the cost. From the compact Hoover PowerDash Pet to the versatile Bissell TurboClean, these cleaners tackle tough stains and pet messes with ease. Intrigued? Dive deeper to uncover the features that make these budget-friendly picks stand out from the crowd and elevate your cleaning routine without breaking the bank.

Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine (FH50700)

For pet owners seeking a lightweight and powerful carpet cleaner for small spaces, the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner (FH50700) delivers exceptional cleaning performance.

Weighing just 12.5 pounds, this compact machine packs a punch, providing 2X more cleaning power than leading lightweight cleaners. Its HeatForce technology ensures faster drying, while the PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll effectively tackles pet messes and high-traffic areas.

Despite its smaller water tanks requiring more frequent refills, users rave about the Hoover's impressive suction and stain-removing capabilities. Compact and maneuverable, it's ideal for area rugs and small rooms.

Although the manual may not always match the product, and the dirty water tank can be tricky to clean, the PowerDash's overall performance and value make it a top contender in the budget-friendly carpet cleaner market.

Best For: Pet owners with small spaces and area rugs who need a lightweight, powerful, and compact carpet cleaner.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Compact design suitable for small spaces

Cons:

  • Smaller water tanks require frequent refills
  • Can leave dirty brush lines if not turned off properly

Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush Pet Carpet Cleaner, 2987,Green/ Black large

The Bissell TurboClean PowerBrush Pet Carpet Cleaner, 2987 in Green/Black shines for pet owners, thanks to its DeepReach PowerBrush Roll that effortlessly lifts dirt, stains, and other messes left behind by your furry friends.

With its lightweight design and compact size, this upright cleaner is a breeze to maneuver, making it perfect for small living spaces and high-traffic areas.

The two-tank technology ensures clean water and dirty water stay separate, providing a more effective clean. Although the small water tanks may require frequent emptying, the powerful suction quickly removes old stains without soaking your carpets.

Plus, Bissell's commitment to supporting homeless pets through the BISSELL Pet Foundation makes this budget-friendly cleaner an even more appealing choice.

Best For: Pet owners looking for a lightweight, maneuverable carpet cleaner that effectively tackles pet messes.

Pros:

  • DeepReach PowerBrush Roll lifts dirt and stains that vacuums leave behind
  • Two-tank technology keeps clean water and dirty water separate for a more effective clean

Cons:

  • Small water tanks require frequent emptying and refilling
  • Narrow cleaning width increases time to cover larger areas

Dirt Devil Portable Spot Compact Carpet Cleaner (FD13000)

With its powerful suction and compact design, the Dirt Devil Portable Spot Compact Carpet Cleaner (FD13000) is an ideal choice for anyone seeking a convenient and effective spot cleaner for their home.

This 11-pound marvel can tackle pet messes, embedded dirt, and stubborn stains with ease, thanks to its 4-inch removable stain tool and flexible hose.

Customers rave about its strong suction and ability to lift tough, set-in stains, including pet accidents.

The Dirt Devil's lightweight construction and simple operation make it a breeze to use, taking only around 5 minutes to clean up after use.

While some users note the need for additional tools to address residue, the overall consensus is that this portable spot cleaner delivers excellent value for the money, making it a great budget-friendly option for keeping your carpets and upholstery looking their best.

Best For: The Dirt Devil Portable Spot Compact Carpet Cleaner (FD13000) is best for homeowners and renters seeking a powerful yet compact spot cleaner for addressing pet messes, embedded dirt, and stubborn stains on carpets, upholstery, and auto interiors.

Pros:

  • Powerful suction effectively lifts and removes tough, set-in stains
  • Lightweight and compact design for easy maneuverability and storage

Cons:

  • May require additional tools to address residue left behind
  • Sprayer distribution could be improved for more even coverage

Hoover PowerDash Pet+ Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine (FH50704V)

Boasting a lightweight and compact design, the Hoover PowerDash Pet+ Compact Carpet Cleaner Machine (FH50704V) is an ideal choice for pet owners seeking a versatile and effective cleaning solution.

With its PowerSpin brushes and strong suction, it's built to handle tough pet messes, effectively removing stubborn stains. The HeatForce Technology ensures faster drying, and the larger clean water tank reduces the need for frequent fill-ups.

Users praise its ease of use, noting the clear visibility of water levels and the hassle-free maintenance, including pet hair removal.

Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars, the PowerDash Pet+ is a budget-friendly option that delivers impressive performance on various carpet types.

Whether you're tackling spot cleaning or larger areas, this compact carpet cleaner is a reliable partner in keeping your home fresh and clean.

Best For: Pet owners looking for a compact, lightweight, and powerful carpet cleaner to tackle tough pet messes and stains.

Pros:

  • Effective in removing pet stains and odors
  • Lightweight and compact design for easy portability

Cons:

  • Clean water tank may be too small for larger carpet areas
  • Some concerns about the material of the clean water tank

Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner, PowerSpeed

If you're a pet owner seeking a lightweight, powerful vacuum that effectively extracts hair and dirt, the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner, PowerSpeed might be the ideal choice.

Weighing in at just 11.5 pounds, this vacuum boasts a compact yet mighty design, delivering impressive 960-watt suction power.

With its upgraded cyclone system, it traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens, making it a great option for those with allergies.

The 5-height settings allow you to tackle various flooring types, from carpets to hard floors, while the multiple attachments help you reach tight spaces and clean upholstery.

And with a large 1.9-liter dustbin, you can clean more before needing to empty it.

Backed by a 2-year warranty and positive customer reviews, the Eureka PowerSpeed is a budget-friendly vacuum that packs a punch.

Best For: Pet owners looking for a lightweight, powerful vacuum that effectively removes pet hair and dirt.

Pros:

  • Powerful 960-watt suction for deep cleaning
  • Lightweight and maneuverable design (11.5 pounds)

Cons:

  • Shorter power cord length may limit reach
  • Potential difficulty navigating on tile floors

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cheap Carpet Cleaner

When searching for an affordable carpet cleaner, consider your budget, how effectively it cleans, and how easy it is to use.

Also, think about the machine's portability and size, as well as the maintenance needed.

Weighing these key factors will help you find the best cheap carpet cleaner to meet your needs.

Budget-Friendly Options

For budget-conscious consumers, opting for a lightweight carpet cleaner can prove advantageous, as models weighing less than 15 pounds typically offer enhanced maneuverability and easier storage.

These compact machines often feature smaller water tanks, holding around 12 liters or less, which may require more frequent refills during cleaning sessions. However, don't let the lower price point fool you – many budget-friendly options boast effective suction capabilities and specialized brush rolls to tackle tough stains and pet messes effectively.

What's more, many affordable carpet cleaners come with user-friendly designs, such as removable nozzles and built-in cleaning tools, simplifying maintenance and operation without the need for complex setups.

And when it comes to performance, customer ratings can provide valuable insights, with many budget-friendly models receiving impressive ratings between 4.3 to 4.6 stars, indicating satisfactory cleaning results for everyday use.

Cleaning Effectiveness

Cleaning effectiveness is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a cheap carpet cleaner, as it determines the machine's ability to thoroughly remove dirt, stains, and debris from your carpets.

Look for models like the DeepReach PowerBrush Roll, which boast superior dirt and stain removal capabilities thanks to their innovative brush designs and superior suction power. A two-tank system, which keeps clean water and cleaning solution separate from the dirty water, ensures that no dirty water is reused, significantly improving your cleaning results.

Additionally, HeatForce technology in some budget-friendly options can help speed up the drying process, preventing moisture buildup and allowing you to use the cleaned areas more quickly.

The size of the cleaning path is also important – wider paths cover more ground in fewer passes, while narrower paths may require more time for larger spaces.

Lastly, don't forget to maintain your machine properly by regularly rinsing the brushes and checking the water tanks to ensure optimal performance over time.

Ease of Use

Alongside cleaning effectiveness, ease of use is another key consideration when choosing a cheap carpet cleaner. You'll want a lightweight design, typically around 11-12.5 pounds, that allows for easier maneuverability and handling during cleaning sessions.

Compact models with dimensions that fit into tight spaces will also promote convenience for storage and use in smaller living areas.

You'll appreciate features like removable tanks that facilitate quick filling and emptying, enhancing the overall user experience and reducing downtime. User-friendly components, such as easy-to-access controls and simple assembly processes, will contribute to a more straightforward operation for individuals of varying skill levels.

Maintenance features, like built-in hose rinses and washable filters, make it easier to keep the machine clean and ready for use, ensuring optimal performance over time.

Portability and Size

When shopping for a cheap carpet cleaner, portability and size are crucial factors that can greatly impact the overall user experience and cleaning effectiveness.

Fortunately, many budget-friendly models on the market today are designed with lightweight and compact features that make them easy to maneuver and store. Typically weighing between 11 to 12.5 pounds, these portable cleaners are a breeze to carry from room to room or up and down stairs.

Their dimensions, ranging from around 10 to 19 inches in width and depth, allow them to fit into tight spaces, making them ideal for use in small areas or high-traffic zones where larger machines might be cumbersome.

Furthermore, the compact design often enhances usability, with some models featuring built-in tools and hoses for targeted spot cleaning. However, do consider the capacity of the water tanks, as smaller tanks may require more frequent refills, potentially impacting the efficiency during extended cleaning sessions.

Maintenance Requirements

Maintaining a cheap carpet cleaner doesn't have to be a hassle, as many models are designed with user-friendly features that simplify upkeep.

Regular cleaning of the brush rolls and filters every few weeks is essential to prevent clogs and ensure optimal suction performance. Look for models with removable tanks, which make it a breeze to empty and clean both the clean and dirty water compartments after each use.

Some budget-friendly options may require rinsing with plain water after using cleaning solutions to avoid residue buildup, which can impact performance and carpet appearance. Keeping the nozzle clean and free of debris is also crucial for maintaining effective suction and enhancing cleaning efficiency.

Be sure to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for specific maintenance schedules and tips to prolong the life of your carpet cleaning machine.

With a little bit of routine care, you can keep your cheap carpet cleaner running at its best for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Cheap Carpet Cleaners Work as Well as More Expensive Models?

While cheap carpet cleaners may not match the performance of premium models, they can still effectively clean your carpets, especially for light to moderate soiling. Consider your needs and budget to find the right cleaner for you.

How Often Should I Use a Cheap Carpet Cleaner?

You should use a cheap carpet cleaner every 6-12 months, depending on foot traffic and household activity. While more affordable, these cleaners can still effectively refresh and maintain your carpets when used regularly.

Can Cheap Carpet Cleaners Handle Heavy-Duty Cleaning Tasks?

While cheap carpet cleaners may not handle the most intensive cleaning tasks, they can effectively tackle moderate soiling and stains. However, for heavily soiled or high-traffic areas, you may need to consider a more powerful professional-grade cleaner.

What Is the Typical Lifespan of a Budget-Friendly Carpet Cleaner?

The typical lifespan of a budget-friendly carpet cleaner can vary, but you can generally expect it to last 3-5 years with proper maintenance and usage. While it may not have the longevity of a high-end model, it can still handle your cleaning needs effectively.

How Do I Properly Maintain a Cheap Carpet Cleaner?

To properly maintain your cheap carpet cleaner, be sure to empty the dirty water tank after each use, clean the brushes and filters regularly, and store it in a dry place. This'll ensure it lasts.

Conclusion

When it comes to cheap carpet cleaners, you don't have to sacrifice quality. The models highlighted offer impressive performance and are easy on your wallet.

Whether you're tackling pet messes or stubborn stains, these budget-friendly options provide the cleaning power you need without breaking the bank.

With their user-friendly designs and high customer ratings, you can enjoy spotless carpets without spending a fortune.