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Best Carpet Machine Detergents of 2026

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Bonnie Salem

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Carpet machine detergents are specially formulated cleaning solutions designed for use with carpet cleaning machines. These detergents are designed to work with the machine's cleaning mechanism and provide a deep and thorough cleaning of carpets and rugs. They are available in a variety of formulations, including those that are designed for specific types of carpets or stains. Many carpet machine detergents are also eco-friendly and safe for use around children and pets. These products are an essential tool for anyone looking to keep their carpets clean and fresh, and they are widely available at most home improvement or cleaning supply stores.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Carpet Machine Detergents

#TOP 1

Bissell Pet Urine Eliminator with Oxy and Febreze

Bissell Pet Urine Eliminator with Oxy and Febreze Cover

Bissell PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator with Febreze Carpet Deep Clean Solution, with StainProtect Technology, for use in leading upright carpet cleaners, 48oz, Our best formula for pet messes & odors

The Bissell Professional Pet Urine Eliminator with Oxy and Febreze Carpet Cleaner Shampoo is a 2X concentrated formula that can be used with all upright carpet cleaning machines. This carpet cleaner removes pet stains and odors at the source with the power of oxy and Febreze freshness. It also cleans and protects from future stains with Scotchgard protector. The detergent is biodegradable and does not contain heavy metals, phosphates or dyes. Plus, it is pet and family safe when used as directed, making it a great choice for pet owners.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Powerful odor elimination
  • Effective stain removal
  • Long-lasting fresh scent
  • Safe for pets and kids
  • Built-in Scotchgard protection

What We Don't Like

  • Strong fragrance for sensitive noses
  • Higher price recently

What Customers Say

"I've tried countless carpet cleaners, but this one is a game-changer for pet stains and odors. It completely eliminated both fresh and set-in stains and left my rug smelling fresh, not like chemicals. Safe for my pets and kids, and I love the added Scotchgard protection. If you struggle with pet messes, this is the solution you've been looking for!"

"As a pet owner, I appreciate how quickly this cleaner gets rid of both stains and lingering urine smells. My senior dog's accidents are no longer a problem, and cleanup is fast and easy. Highly recommend for anyone with pets!"

"I use this cleaner in both my commercial building and pet-friendly home because it works so well and the scent is fantastic. It leaves everything smelling clean, and it’s my go-to for all my carpet cleaning needs."

#TOP 2

Amazon Basics Oxy Carpet Cleaner

  • Amazon Basics
  • 104664AMZ
  • Clear
Amazon Basics Oxy Carpet Cleaner Cover

Amazon Basics Carpet Cleaner, Carpet Stain Remover, Fresh Scent, 64 fl oz

The Amazon Basics Carpet Cleaner is designed to deeply penetrate and eliminate tough stains and odors from your carpets. Its hydrogen peroxide formula effectively tackles stubborn spills, ensuring your carpets remain clean and fresh. This versatile cleaner works with all popular deep cleaning machines, making it easy for you to maintain your carpets. Plus, it features an EPA Safer Choice-certified formula, so you can feel good about using it around your family and pets while still achieving powerful cleaning results.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effective stain removal
  • Long-lasting fresh scent
  • Affordable price
  • Compatible with major machines
  • Light, pleasant fragrance

What We Don't Like

  • Minor bottle design issue
  • Odor removal not always complete

What Customers Say

"With a busy household and a young child, I really appreciate how well this carpet cleaner gets rid of stubborn stains and leaves behind a lasting fresh scent. It’s affordable and genuinely makes my carpets and furniture look and smell almost new. I don’t stress over spills anymore—this product has become a go-to for me."

"I’ve tried several brands, but this one surprised me. It’s much less expensive, yet my area rugs looked noticeably cleaner after just one use. The scent is very subtle, which I prefer, and the value is outstanding for the results I get. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to save money without sacrificing cleanliness."

"As a pet owner, I needed something for accidents on an old wool rug. Diluting this cleaner in a spray bottle significantly reduced odors and stains, and the light minty scent doesn’t try to mask anything with heavy fragrance. Just be sure to spot test on colored fabrics—the peroxide can cause color fading. Overall, the price and performance make it something I always keep on hand."

#TOP 3

OxiClean Large Area Carpet Cleaner

OxiClean Large Area Carpet Cleaner Cover

OxiClean Large Carpet Cleaner Liquid Solution for Steam Cleaning Machines, 64 fl oz

The OxiClean Large Area Carpet Cleaner is suitable for any carpet cleaning machine and offers deep cleaning action that removes dirt and lifts stains. For tougher stains, pre-treat with OxiClean's Carpet & Area Rug Remover Spray. Remember to vacuum thoroughly before use and follow the recommended detergent to water ratio instructions for home owned and rental machines.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Stain removal effectiveness
  • Fresh clean scent
  • Compatible with most carpet machines
  • Large bottle size
  • Pet stain removal

What We Don't Like

  • Mild residue on carpets
  • Scent may be strong

What Customers Say

"I have a light cream rug that gets dirty all the time, and this OxiClean solution really brings it back to life. Whether I’m tackling tough spots or giving the whole rug a refresh, it removes stains and leaves a fresh, clean smell. I even use it in my bathroom because it works so well on everything."

"We had a major red wine spill on light Berber stairs, and using OxiClean with my handheld carpet cleaner, the stain was gone in minutes. The scent is initially pretty strong, so I made sure to air things out, but it absolutely delivered when it came to removing stains fast."

"This is my go-to carpet cleaner. It’s easy to use, cost-effective, and leaves my carpets looking and smelling great. I just add the right amount to my carpet shampooer and it does an excellent job on any mess."

#TOP 4

Shark CarpetXpert Deep Clean Pro Formula

Shark CarpetXpert Deep Clean Pro Formula Cover

Shark CarpetXpert Deep Clean Pro Formula for All Shark Upright & Portable Carpet Cleaners, Formulated for all Carpets, Upholstery & Area Rugs, Eliminates Tough Pet Messes and Odors, 48oz, EXCM48

The Shark CarpetXpert Cleaner is designed to work perfectly with all Shark carpet cleaner models, so you don't have to worry about compatibility when refreshing your carpets. Its special StainStriker Technology mixes two powerful chemicals right in the handheld tool, giving you 20 times more stain-fighting strength to tackle tough messes. If you have pets, this formula is a great choice because it removes odors instantly and for good, including stubborn pet urine and smoke smells. Plus, it's made to clean your entire home, from carpets and area rugs to upholstery and stairs, making it a versatile option for keeping your living spaces fresh and spotless.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effective stain removal
  • Fresh, pleasant scent
  • Safe for pets and kids
  • Easy to use
  • Good value for price

What We Don't Like

  • Small bottle size
  • Price slightly high

What Customers Say

"I've tried several carpet cleaners, but none compare to this one. It completely eliminates tough stains and odors from daily life, kids, and pets. The scent it leaves is fresh but not overwhelming, and I feel confident using it around my pets and children. For the amount you get, the price is fair, especially given how often I need to clean. I tell everyone I know to try both the cleaner and the machine!"

"After using other major brands that disappointed me, I switched to this cleaner and was honestly amazed. It removed stains I'd given up on and left everything smelling clean, not perfumed. The machine and cleaning solution together work like magic—truly a noticeable difference. It's definitely worth the investment."

"As a pet owner, I've found this to be my favorite carpet shampoo. It tackles pet messes with ease, leaves a fresh scent that's not too strong, and the bottle lasts longer than expected since only a little is needed per clean. For the price and performance, I keep coming back to it."

#TOP 5

Hoover Paws & Claws Carpet Cleaner

  • Hoover
  • AH31933
  • Color May Vary
Hoover Paws & Claws Carpet Cleaner Cover

Hoover Pet Carpet Cleaner Solution, 128 oz., Tropical Breeze Scent, Deep Cleaning Shampoo Solution, Eliminates Urine Stains and Odors, Pair Carpet Cleaner Machine

Hoover Carpet Cleaner Solution offers a powerful enzymatic blend that effectively tackles stubborn pet stains and odors, helping you maintain a clean and inviting home. By breaking down microscopic organic materials, this cleaner ensures that messes like urine and vomit are easily lifted away, giving you peace of mind. It’s suitable for various surfaces, including carpets, rugs, and upholstery, making it versatile for your cleaning needs. Plus, you can trust that it’s made without harmful chemicals, ensuring safety for your family and pets.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Removes tough stains
  • Neutralizes pet odors
  • Pleasant fresh scent
  • Safe for multiple surfaces
  • Good value

What We Don't Like

  • Some stains need multiple treatments

What Customers Say

"With about a dozen cats, I need a heavy-duty cleaner that can handle anything, and this product always delivers. It's managed to eliminate every stain we've had, no matter how tough."

"After trying many cleaners for my pets' messes, this solution has exceeded my expectations. It not only erased old stains and persistent odors, but also left a refreshing tropical scent in the room. The enzymatic formula keeps working after cleaning, and it's safe for both carpets and upholstery, making it a must-have for pet owners."

"I use this with my Hoover carpet cleaner for my two dogs, and it does an excellent job keeping rugs fresh and removing dirt and mud. Even got out grape juice stains and worked well on my car's interior."

#TOP 6

Bissell Multi-Surface Pet Solution with Febreze

Bissell Multi-Surface Pet Solution with Febreze Cover

Bissell Multi-Surface Pet Solution with Febreze freshness, For use in CrossWave and other leading hard surface and area rug cleaners, 80oz, Dissolves dirt, grime, and tough sticky messes

Bissell Pet Solution is designed to tackle tough pet stains and odors, making your cleaning routine easier and more effective. It helps remove stubborn messes, so you don’t have to scrub hard to get your floors spotless. The formula also includes Febreze freshness, which means it not only cleans but also leaves your home smelling fresh and inviting. Plus, with every purchase, you support the BISSELL Pet Foundation, helping homeless pets find loving homes. This product is ideal for those who want a thorough clean while contributing to a good cause.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effective pet odor removal
  • No sticky residue
  • Pleasant, fresh scent
  • Works on multiple floor types
  • Good value for money

What We Don't Like

  • Struggles with old stains
  • A bit pricey

What Customers Say

"I've used this solution exclusively for over four years on my floors and it has never let me down. It’s consistently reliable, never leaves streaks, and smells great. This product is a staple in my cleaning routine and I always recommend it to friends."

"As someone with several pets, I appreciate how well this cleaner tackles messes and keeps my home smelling fresh. The Febreze scent isn’t overpowering and it easily removes pet odors. I’m very pleased with the results and will definitely keep buying it!"

"I often foster stray animals, so messes are a given in my house. This Bissell product is easy to use, has a perfect citrus scent, and makes quick work of cleaning up after pets. It’s a relief to have a cleaner that works so well for my needs."

#TOP 7

BISSELL Pet Stain & Odor Formula

BISSELL Pet Stain & Odor Formula Cover

BISSELL 2X Pet Stain & Odor Full Size Machine Formula, 60 ounces, 99K52

The BISSELL Pet Stain Formula is designed to tackle tough messes and odors caused by pets. It effectively removes stains from cat urine, vomit, and dirt tracked in from outside, making it a must-have for pet owners. This formula is safe for use on carpets, area rugs, and upholstery, ensuring that your furniture and floors remain protected. Plus, it's crafted with biodegradable detergents and contains no harsh chemicals, making it safe for use around children and pets when used as directed. You can confidently clean your home while also supporting a brand that helps save homeless pets.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effective stain removal
  • Neutralizes pet odors
  • Mild, pleasant scent
  • Leaves carpet soft
  • Works with Bissell machines

What Customers Say

"I've tried other carpet cleaning solutions, but the Bissell 2X Pet Stain & Odor Formula really stands out for its cleaning power. When my puppy was sick, nothing else worked, but this product completely removed stains and odors, leaving my carpet soft, fluffy, and fresh. I'll definitely keep buying it!"

"As a pet owner, I need a cleaner that can tackle tough messes. This formula effectively lifts pet stains and gets rid of odors without leaving any residue, and I like that the scent is gentle and not overpowering. It works smoothly with my Bissell carpet cleaner."

"With two dogs in the house, accidents happen, but this cleaner removes stains and leaves our carpets soft and clean-smelling. It even arrived quickly and was well-packaged, which I appreciate."

#TOP 8

Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner - ZUHTC128

  • Zep
  • ZPEZUHTC128
Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner - ZUHTC128 Cover

Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner - 1 Gallon - Penetrating Formula Removes Deep Stains. Make High-Traffic Areas Look New Again

Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner is a powerful carpet cleaning solution designed specifically for high-traffic areas. With its penetrating formula, it effectively lifts food and dirt stains, leaving your carpets looking fresh and new. The enzyme action in this cleaner also eliminates odors, ensuring that your carpets not only look clean but also smell fresh. Whether you have matted, old, or soiled patches, this cleaner can revive them, making them look as good as new. The best part is that it requires no dilution, so you can simply spray and blot to remove deep, set-in stains. With Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner, you can effortlessly restore the beauty of your carpets and enjoy a cleaner and fresher living space.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Removes tough stains
  • Works on pet accidents
  • Pleasant, fresh scent
  • Effective spot cleaning
  • Good value for price

What We Don't Like

  • Very foamy if undiluted
  • Not ideal for heavy neglect

What Customers Say

"I was honestly amazed by how well this cleaner worked on the stains and odors from my elderly dog's accidents. I used it in my carpet machine, and the results were far better than I expected. For the price, it delivered professional-level cleaning. I’ll definitely be purchasing again!"

"After years of dealing with cat messes on the carpet, I tried this product and it lifted old stains that other cleaners couldn’t budge. I diluted it a bit due to the foaming, but it made a huge difference in how the room looked and smelled. For budget cleaning jobs, it’s a great choice."

"I’ve used this for both spot cleaning and in my machine, and it pulled up stains and dirt like nothing else. It even outperformed the more expensive cleaners made for my vacuum. I noticed a significant improvement with both techniques, and the fresh scent was a bonus!"

#TOP 9

ZEP Carpet Shampoo 128 oz

ZEP Carpet Shampoo 128 oz Cover

ZEP INC Carpet Shampoo, clear, 128 fl oz (Pack of 1)

The ZEP Carpet Shampoo is a powerful cleaning solution designed to help you get your carpets thoroughly clean. It comes in a large 128-ounce bottle, which can be diluted to make up to 25 gallons of cleaning solution, giving you plenty of value and convenience for multiple uses. This product is professional strength, meaning it offers a deeper and more effective clean compared to regular shampoos. Additionally, its low foam formula ensures that you won't have to deal with excessive suds, making the cleaning process smoother and easier. Overall, the ZEP Carpet Shampoo is a reliable choice for maintaining fresh and clean carpets.

8.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Powerful stain removal
  • Leaves carpets soft
  • Fresh, pleasant scent
  • Low-foaming formula
  • Excellent value

What We Don't Like

  • Extra vacuuming step needed
  • Not quite as strong as premium brands

What Customers Say

"I've tried a lot of carpet shampoos, but this one stands out for its impressive cleaning power and value. The gallon size lasts a long time, and it lifts dirt and pet messes with ease. I love that my carpets dry soft and look fresh and bright with a light, pleasant scent. It's definitely a five-star winner for me!"

"Dealing with kids and pets means constant carpet messes, but this cleaner is the only one that’s worked reliably for me. It tackles stains left behind by other detergents, and the carpet feels soft and smells fresh afterwards. Even my friend was impressed and bought a bottle after trying it in my home."

"I switched to this carpet shampoo because my usual brand got too expensive. This one is much more economical and still does a great job cleaning. There’s no heavy scent or soapy residue, and my rugs stay cleaner longer. While it might not be quite as strong as the pricier brands, I’m happy with the results and plan to stick with it."

#TOP 10

Bissell Little Green Formula 20386

Bissell Little Green Formula 20386 Cover

Bissell Little Green Formula, 60 oz, 20386

The Bissell Little Green is a specially designed carpet cleaner formula that helps you maintain fresh and clean carpets easily. This formula is made to work perfectly with carpet cleaning machines, ensuring deep cleaning that lifts stains and dirt effectively. Using this detergent allows you to refresh your carpets without much hassle, making carpet care more convenient. With Bissell Little Green, you can enjoy a cleaner home environment by tackling messes quickly and efficiently.

8.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effective carpet cleaning
  • Compatible with carpet machines
  • Easy to use formula

Carpet Machine Detergents Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Bissell Pet Urine Eliminator with Oxy and Febreze Cover

Bissell Pet Urine Eliminator with Oxy and Febreze

#TOP 2 Amazon Basics Oxy Carpet Cleaner Cover

Amazon Basics Oxy Carpet Cleaner

#TOP 3 OxiClean Large Area Carpet Cleaner Cover

OxiClean Large Area Carpet Cleaner

#TOP 4 Shark CarpetXpert Deep Clean Pro Formula Cover

Shark CarpetXpert Deep Clean Pro Formula

#TOP 5 Hoover Paws & Claws Carpet Cleaner Cover

Hoover Paws & Claws Carpet Cleaner

#TOP 6 Bissell Multi-Surface Pet Solution with Febreze Cover

Bissell Multi-Surface Pet Solution with Febreze

#TOP 7 BISSELL Pet Stain & Odor Formula Cover

BISSELL Pet Stain & Odor Formula

#TOP 8 Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner - ZUHTC128 Cover

Zep High Traffic Carpet Cleaner - ZUHTC128

#TOP 9 ZEP Carpet Shampoo 128 oz Cover

ZEP Carpet Shampoo 128 oz

#TOP 10 Bissell Little Green Formula 20386 Cover

Bissell Little Green Formula 20386

Brand Bissell Amazon Basics OxiClean Shark Hoover Bissell Bissell Zep Zep Bissell
Material Feature Biodegradable Warning Safer Choice Certified Spray Scented Stain Remover Biodegradable Biodegradable Warning Natural Scented -
Item Form Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid Liquid -
Scent Febreze Fresh Unscented Citrus Tropical Breeze NO Fresh Unscented Fresh -
Specific Uses For Product Carpet Carpet, Upholstery Carpet, Rug Carpet Upholstery, Carpet Carpet Upholstery, Carpet Carpet Cleaning Carpet -
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.6
9.4
9.3
9.1
8.9
8.9
8.8
Where to Buy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What detergent can you use in a carpet cleaner?

Carpet cleaners are designed to work best with carpet shampoos, but you can also use laundry detergent as a safe substitute. Using laundry detergent in a carpet cleaner can provide effective results without needing a large amount of it.

2. What can I use in my carpet shampooer for dog urine?

For dog urine stains, it is recommended to use an enzymatic cleaner specifically designed for pet stains. Enzymatic cleaners, like OxiClean Carpet & Area Rug Stain Remover, are effective in breaking down the proteins present in urine, feces, and vomit.

3. Can you use other detergent in Bissell carpet cleaner?

While it is possible to use other cleaning formulas in a Bissell carpet cleaner, it is recommended to use Bissell brand formulas. Bissell formulas are free from dyes, phosphates, and optical brighteners, ensuring optimal cleaning performance when used with Bissell carpet cleaning machines.

4. Can Dawn dish soap be used as a carpet cleaner?

Dawn dish soap can be used as a spot cleaner for carpet stains. Mix 2 tsp. of Dawn dish soap with cold water in a spritzer bottle and spray it on the stain, ensuring it is thoroughly soaked. However, it is important to note that dish soap should not be used for overall carpet cleaning.

5. Why does my carpet still smell like dog pee after shampooing?

If the dog urine stain has penetrated the underlay of the carpet, it may still retain the smell even after shampooing. In such cases, specialized treatments may be necessary to effectively remove the wet dog smell after carpet cleaning.

6. Is Dawn dish soap safe for carpets?

While Dawn dish soap can be effective in removing dirt and stains from carpets, it is not recommended for general carpet cleaning. The soap may seep into the carpet fibers and can leave residue. It is best to use products specifically designed for carpet cleaning.

Editor's Notes

During our carpet machine detergent research, we found 24 carpet machine detergent products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 801,150 customer reviews through our big data system to write the carpet machine detergents list. We found that most customers choose carpet machine detergents with an average price of $18.81.

The carpet machine detergents are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of carpet machine detergents, including Bissell, OxiClean, Shark, Hoover, Zep. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Bonnie Salem Avatar

Bonnie Salem

Bonnie Salem is a stay-at-home mother with two-year-old twins and has spent almost half of her life surrounded by baby products. As a mother and a professional copywriter, she has an insightful and unique eye for researching products suitable for infants. Bonnie Salem is an expert in health and nutrition who lives with her family in New Jersey. She has over 15 years of working experience in an institute of medicine after graduating from the University of Toronto. She is highly interested in personal health and wellness.