As a self-proclaimed cleaning enthusiast, I’ve made it my mission to find and share the best tips, tricks, and products that can make our homes shine. And when it comes to tackling those pesky spills and stubborn stains on our beloved rugs and carpets, I’ve got a secret weapon that’s about to change the game – the Bissell Little Green Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner.
A Compact Cleaning Powerhouse
Now, I know what you’re thinking – a “little green” machine can’t possibly pack a big punch, right? Well, my friends, let me tell you, this little guy is a cleaning superstar. I first heard about it on TikTok, where I watched video after video of people using it to tackle everything from pet stains to ground-in dirt. Intrigued, I did a deep dive into the Amazon reviews, and the rave testimonials were simply too impressive to ignore.
So, I decided to take the plunge and get one for myself. And let me tell you, it was love at first clean. This compact and lightweight machine is an absolute game-changer when it comes to spot-cleaning rugs, carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors. Its powerful suction and Oxy-based cleaning solution cut through dirt and grime like a hot knife through butter, leaving behind a fresh, clean surface that’s free of any lingering residue.
Prep and Pretreat for Maximum Effectiveness
But before you dive in with your Little Green machine, there are a few important steps to take. First and foremost, it’s crucial to thoroughly vacuum the area you plan to clean. This helps remove any loose dirt, dust, and hair that could otherwise get in the way of the machine’s deep cleaning action.
Next, if you’re dealing with a particularly stubborn stain or heavily soiled area, I highly recommend taking the time to pretreat it. Simply hold the cleaning tool just above the stain, press the trigger to dispense the cleaning solution, and let it sit for about five minutes before you start scrubbing. This extra step can make a world of difference in breaking down those tough stains and getting your carpets and rugs looking their absolute best.
The Step-by-Step Cleaning Process
Alright, now that you’ve got your area prepped and pretreated, it’s time to put the Little Green machine to work. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure you get the most out of this cleaning powerhouse:
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Fill the Clean Water Tank: Lift the tank straight up to remove it, then unscrew the black cap at the bottom. Fill the tank with the Bissell Oxy-based cleaning solution to the indicated level, then add hot tap water until the level reaches the fill line (about 48 ounces). If desired, you can also add a touch of the Bissell Boost solution for an extra boost of cleaning power.
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Assemble the Accessories: Attach the Tough Stain Tool, brush head, and cleaning solution dispenser to the hose. This will give you all the tools you need to tackle even the toughest of stains.
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Start Cleaning: Plug in the machine and turn it on by pressing the power button under the handle. Hold the cleaning tool just above the area you want to clean, press the trigger to dispense the cleaning solution, and lightly scrub the stained or soiled spots.
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Extract the Dirt: Apply pressure to the Tough Stain Tool and pull it toward you to extract the cleaning solution and loosened dirt. The suction power of this little machine is seriously impressive, and it’s incredibly satisfying to watch the murky water zoom through the hose and into the dirty water reservoir.
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Dry the Area: Once you’re satisfied that the area is clean, make a final pass over it to extract any remaining moisture. Just press the brush tool down and pull it toward you without pressing the trigger – the goal here is to remove excess liquid, not add more.
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Clean the Machine: When you’re done, be sure to rinse out both the clean and dirty water tanks, as well as the brush attachment, before putting the machine away. This will help prevent any musty odors or buildup from developing.
Expanding Your Cleaning Arsenal
While the original Bissell Little Green Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner is an absolute powerhouse, the brand has since expanded its lineup to include even more versatile options. From the Little Green HydroSteam Pet for deep-cleaning pet messes to the Little Green Cordless for tackle-on-the-go cleaning, there’s a Bissell model to suit every need.
Personally, I’m already eyeing the Little Green ProHeat and Little Green Pet Pro models, which boast advanced features like heated cleaning and dedicated pet-friendly formulas. But no matter which Bissell Little Green machine you choose, you can rest assured that you’re getting a compact, effective, and easy-to-use cleaning solution that will have your rugs, carpets, and upholstery looking fresh and vibrant in no time.
Tackling Tricky Spills and Stains
Of course, the Bissell Little Green isn’t the only tool in my cleaning arsenal when it comes to tackling stubborn spills and stains. I’ve also learned a few other tricks along the way, courtesy of some expert sources.
For example, when dealing with cooking oil spills, Cool Mom Eats editor Jane Sweeney swears by the power of cornstarch. Simply soak up the excess oil with paper towels, then generously sprinkle cornstarch over the remaining mess and let it sit for about 10 minutes. The cornstarch will help to absorb the oil, making it a breeze to vacuum up. And if the oil happens to find its way onto your clothes or carpets, the same cornstarch trick can work wonders there too.
Another handy tip I’ve picked up is from the team at Steamy Concepts. They recommend using a squeegee and dustpan to gather up the bulk of any oil or liquid spill before moving on to the cornstarch or other cleaning methods. This can help to prevent the mess from spreading and make the overall cleanup process much more efficient.
Secrets to Maintaining a Spotless Home
As someone who takes great pride in keeping my home clean and tidy, I’ve learned that the key to success is all about having the right tools and techniques in your arsenal. And with the Bissell Little Green Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, along with a few other clever tricks up my sleeve, I feel like I’m well on my way to mastering the art of rug and carpet maintenance.
Whether you’re dealing with a fresh spill, a stubborn stain, or just want to give your floors a thorough deep clean, this little machine is up for the task. And with its compact size and affordable price tag, it’s a no-brainer addition to any modern homemaker’s cleaning toolkit.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your Bissell Little Green and let’s get to work transforming your living spaces into the fresh, vibrant havens they deserve to be. Your rugs, carpets, and upholstery will thank you!
