Buying Guide for the Best Bissell Spot Cleaners
Choosing the right spot cleaner can make tackling spills and stains around the home much easier. Spot cleaners are compact machines designed to clean carpets, upholstery, stairs, car interiors, and more. When picking a spot cleaner, think about where and how you plan to use it most—whether it’s for quick pet messes, car seats, or deep-set carpet stains. Understanding the main features can help you choose the best fit for your cleaning needs and lifestyle.Tank CapacityTank capacity refers to the volume of water or cleaning solution that the cleaner can hold. This is important because a bigger tank means you can clean larger areas or handle more messes before needing to refill. Smaller tanks are lighter and easier to carry, ideal for quick cleanups or small spaces. Larger tanks are better for deep cleaning big areas or for people who don’t want to stop often to refill. Think about how large your cleaning tasks usually are: if you clean up small spills now and then, a small tank should be fine, but for frequent or larger stains, a bigger tank will be more convenient.
Suction PowerSuction power is how strongly the machine pulls up dirt, moisture, and cleaning solution from surfaces. Stronger suction leads to quicker drying and better stain removal, especially for deep or stubborn stains. Machines with lower suction might work for light cleaning but may leave carpets or upholstery damper and take longer to dry. If you often deal with tough messes or want to make sure surfaces dry quickly, look for a spot cleaner known for good suction. For occasional or light use, standard suction may be adequate.
Hose LengthThe hose length determines how far you can reach from the main unit while cleaning. A longer hose is helpful for reaching stairs, car interiors, or awkward corners without moving the machine often. Short hoses make the machine more compact and easier to store, but you’ll have to move the machine frequently for larger jobs. Consider where you’ll use your spot cleaner most: longer hoses are ideal for larger rooms or vehicles, while short hoses work in small areas or for spot treating nearby stains.
Weight and PortabilityWeight and portability describe how easy it is to carry and move the spot cleaner around. Lighter models are simpler to lift, especially up stairs or in and out of vehicles, and are best for people who need something manageable and easy to store. Heavier models may offer larger tanks or stronger suction but can be difficult for some users to transport. If you expect to carry your cleaner frequently or have limited strength, look for one that’s light and has a comfortable handle.
Cleaning AttachmentsCleaning attachments are the different nozzles or tools that come with the spot cleaner. These can include brushes for scrubbing, crevice tools for tight spaces, or special heads for pet messes. Having the right attachment can make it easier to clean different types of stains or surfaces. If you have pets or deal with unusual messes, check for attachments that address those specific needs. For general use, a standard brush attachment usually works well.
Cord LengthCord length affects how far you can move the machine from a power outlet. A longer cord gives you more flexibility to clean larger rooms or tricky spots without changing outlets. For smaller spaces or areas close to outlets, a shorter cord can make storage simpler. If you plan to use your cleaner in big rooms or outside (like for cars), a longer cord makes things easier.