10 Best Spot Cleaners for Upholstery in 2026
You tackle tough upholstery stains with confidence using top picks like Resolve Carpet Cleaner and BISSELL Little Green models, which lift spills, grease, and pet messes without fading fabrics.
Spot-test first and choose formulas safe for cotton, polyester, or nylon.
Opt for pet-safe, eco-friendly options with built-in tools for faster cleaning. Lightweight designs and quick-drying power save time. You’re already on track; discover which ones match your cleaning needs and fabric types next.
Quick Overview
- Choose upholstery cleaners safe for common fabrics like cotton, polyester, and nylon. Always check the fabric’s cleanability code (WS or W).
- Prioritize spot cleaners with proven stain removal power against coffee, wine, pet messes, and grease; these should not fade or damage fabric.
- Opt for lightweight, portable models under 10 pounds with onboard tools for easy use on stairs, cars, and tight spaces.
- Select pet-safe, non-toxic formulas free of bleach, ammonia, and phosphates. These should eliminate odors rather than masking them.
- Prefer eco-friendly options with biodegradable ingredients, recyclable packaging, and concentrated formulas to reduce environmental impact.
| Resolve Carpet Cleaner 22 fl oz |  | Best Overall | Usage: Stain and odor removal on upholstery, carpets, drapes, mattresses | Form Type: Liquid spray cleaner | Fabric Compatibility: Safe on polyester, nylon, cotton blends; avoid velvet, silk, vinyl, leather | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BISSELL Little Green Mini Deep Cleaner (4075) |  | Editor’s Choice | Usage: Portable deep cleaning for carpets, upholstery, car interiors, pet stains | Form Type: Portable electric deep cleaner (machine) | Fabric Compatibility: Suitable for most carpets and upholstery; check fabric codes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BISSELL Little Green Portable Carpet Cleaner (1400B) |  | Most Powerful | Usage: Spot cleaning for carpets, upholstery, stairs, car interiors, pet messes | Form Type: Portable electric carpet cleaner (machine) | Fabric Compatibility: Safe for carpets and upholstery; for WS/W coded fabrics | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Bissell Spot & Stain Fabric and Upholstery Cleaner 9351,12 Ounce Blue |  | Budget-Friendly Pick | Usage: Fabric and upholstery stain removal for spots, spills, entire furniture | Form Type: Liquid spray cleaner with brush | Fabric Compatibility: Use on WS or W coded fabrics; avoid X and S, velvet, silk, leather | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| BISSELL® Woolite® Advantage Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 4 Pack 3325 |  | Best Value | Usage: Cleaning and odor elimination on carpets, upholstery, stairs, cars, pet messes | Form Type: Liquid spray cleaner with built-in brush | Fabric Compatibility: For carpets and upholstery; follow manufacturer codes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Couch Cleaner Spray – Pet-Safe Non-Toxic |  | Non-Toxic Formula | Usage: Stain removal on upholstery, carpets, multi-surface fabrics | Form Type: Spray solution | Fabric Compatibility: Multi-surface fabric and upholstery; pet-safe formula | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Shark StainStriker Portable Cleaner (PX221BRN) |  | Professional Grade | Usage: Spot, stain, and odor removal on carpets, rugs, upholstery, car interiors | Form Type: Portable electric cleaner (machine) | Fabric Compatibility: Safe on carpets, rugs, upholstery, car interiors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner for Carpet |  | Lightweight Design | Usage: Spot cleaning for carpets, stairs, upholstery, pet stains | Form Type: Portable electric spot cleaner (machine) | Fabric Compatibility: For carpets and upholstery; use with compatible solution | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Chemical Guys Carpet & Upholstery Stain Extractor |  | Concentrated Power | Usage: Professional stain and odor removal on carpets, upholstery, car interiors | Form Type: Liquid spray solution (concentrated) | Fabric Compatibility: Safe on natural and synthetic fibers; no fading or discoloration | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| ZEP ZUSPOT19 Instant Spot and Stain Remover 19 oz |  | Instant Stain Removal | Usage: Stain removal on carpets, rugs, upholstery, clothing, soft surfaces | Form Type: Liquid spray remover | Fabric Compatibility: For carpets, rugs, upholstery, soft floor surfaces | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Resolve Carpet Cleaner 22 fl oz
Who needs a reliable upholstery spot cleaner that tackles tough stains without fading or damaging most fabrics? You do, and Resolve Carpet Cleaner (22 fl oz) delivers. It lifts dirt, grease, and odors from sofas, mattresses, and drapes without discoloring most fabrics.
Just test a hidden area first and avoid using on velvet, silk, vinyl, or leather. Safe on cotton, polyester, and nylon blends, it works fast on spills like wine, coffee, and makeup. Check your fabric’s Cleanability Code: ideal for WS or W tags.
Use it immediately for best results. You’ll keep your upholstery fresh and clean without worry; no fading, no damage, just powerful, trusted performance right where you need it.
- Usage:Stain and odor removal on upholstery, carpets, drapes, mattresses
- Form Type:Liquid spray cleaner
- Fabric Compatibility:Safe on polyester, nylon, cotton blends; avoid velvet, silk, vinyl, leather
- Stain Target:Makeup, food grease, coffee, wine, odors
- Odor Removal:Eliminates odors from fabrics
- Portability:Handheld spray (portable)
- Additional Feature:Treats stains immediately
- Additional Feature:No fading/discoloring
- Additional Feature:Safe on most fabrics
BISSELL Little Green Mini Deep Cleaner (4075)
Need a compact cleaner that tackles tough messes in tight spaces like car interiors or staircases? The BISSELL Little Green Mini Deep Cleaner (4075) is your go-to. It’s lightweight, portable, and packs serious cleaning power. You’ll spray, scrub, and suck up dirt, spills, and pet stains with ease.
Use the 4” Tough Stain Tool or HydroRinse hose for embedded grime. It removes allergens, dander, and odors fast. The included formula eliminates stains permanently. Plus, you’re helping pets; every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation.
At just 7 pounds and with smart storage design, it’s perfect for quick cleanups anywhere. You’ve got this.
- Usage:Portable deep cleaning for carpets, upholstery, car interiors, pet stains
- Form Type:Portable electric deep cleaner (machine)
- Fabric Compatibility:Suitable for most carpets and upholstery; check fabric codes
- Stain Target:Embedded dirt, pet stains, spills, odors
- Odor Removal:Removes odors; eliminates smells permanently
- Portability:Lightweight, compact portable machine
- Additional Feature:HydroRinse self-cleaning tool
- Additional Feature:Saves space storage
- Additional Feature:Supports pet-saving initiatives
BISSELL Little Green Portable Carpet Cleaner (1400B)
If you’re tackling pet stains, spills, or odors on upholstery, stairs, or car interiors, the BISSELL Little Green Portable Carpet Cleaner (1400B) is your go-to spot cleaner. You’ll love its powerful suction and triple action formula that lifts 100+ messes fast. With a 48 oz tank, it runs longer between refills. Just spray, scrub, and suck up dirt effortlessly.
It’s lightweight, corded, and ready to use anywhere. The included Tough Stain Tool and HydroRinse accessory make cleaning and maintenance simple. Plus, you’re backing a brand that helps save homeless pets. It’s a trusted pick for quick, deep cleaning; no assembly needed. Just plug in and go.
- Usage:Spot cleaning for carpets, upholstery, stairs, car interiors, pet messes
- Form Type:Portable electric carpet cleaner (machine)
- Fabric Compatibility:Safe for carpets and upholstery; for WS/W coded fabrics
- Stain Target:Pet messes, paw prints, spills, odors
- Odor Removal:Eliminates odors from pet messes
- Portability:Handheld, portable design
- Additional Feature:Large 48 oz tank
- Additional Feature:Triple action formula
- Additional Feature:Exclusive specialty tools
Bissell Spot & Stain Fabric and Upholstery Cleaner 9351,12 Ounce Blue
Looking for a spot cleaner that tackles tough upholstery stains without compromising fabric safety? This Bissell Spot & Stain Fabric and Upholstery Cleaner has your back. Its patented fabric-safe brush lifts stubborn soils from fibers without damage. You’ll love how it cleans everything from small spills to full sofa stains fast.
Always test a hidden spot first and check the manufacturer’s cleanability code: use only on fabrics coded WS or W. Skip it for velvet, silk, leather, or materials labeled X or S. It even helps repel future dirt, so your fabric stays cleaner longer. Just apply, scrub gently, and wipe away mess with confidence.
- Usage:Fabric and upholstery stain removal for spots, spills, entire furniture
- Form Type:Liquid spray cleaner with brush
- Fabric Compatibility:Use on WS or W coded fabrics; avoid X and S, velvet, silk, leather
- Stain Target:General spots, spills, stains on fabric
- Odor Removal:No specific mention
- Portability:Compact spray bottle (portable)
- Additional Feature:Patented fabric-safe brush
- Additional Feature:Helps repel dirt
- Additional Feature:Quick cleanup entire sofa
BISSELL® Woolite® Advantage Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 4 Pack 3325
Who needs a spot cleaner that tackles tough stains and lingering odors without soaking delicate fabrics? You do, and the BISSELL® Woolite® Advantage 4 Pack delivers. With StainLift Technology, it lifts deep-down dirt fast. It’s got 25% more odor-block power than the original; pet messes and car spills don’t stand a chance.
The built-in fabric-safe brush scrubs gently without over-wetting fibers, then rinses clean. You’ll love how it neutralizes odors and helps prevent resoiling. Each 12-oz bottle sprays foam ready for action. Four come in the pack: perfect for on-the-go messes. Customers rate it 4.3 stars. Trust your upholstery to this proven performer.
- Usage:Cleaning and odor elimination on carpets, upholstery, stairs, cars, pet messes
- Form Type:Liquid spray cleaner with built-in brush
- Fabric Compatibility:For carpets and upholstery; follow manufacturer codes
- Stain Target:Deep-down dirt, stains, pet odors, resoiling
- Odor Removal:Neutralizes strong odors; patented odor elimination
- Portability:Spray bottle with brush (portable)
- Additional Feature:StainLift Technology
- Additional Feature:25% more odor-block
- Additional Feature:Built-in rinseable brush
Couch Cleaner Spray – Pet-Safe Non-Toxic
Need a couch cleaner that’s tough on stains but safe for pets and kids? You’ve got it with this pet-safe, non-toxic spray. It’s professionally strong, lifting coffee spills, sauces, pet accidents, and even old, set-in stains without harsh chemicals.
Since it’s chlorine-, bleach-, and phosphate-free, you won’t worry if your dog licks the couch. The biodegradable formula is kind to the environment, and it works fast: just spray, let it act, and watch stains vanish. No sticky residue means no re-soiling. Plus, it’s quick-drying and made in the USA.
Clean confidently, knowing your family and home stay safe.
- Usage:Stain removal on upholstery, carpets, multi-surface fabrics
- Form Type:Spray solution
- Fabric Compatibility:Multi-surface fabric and upholstery; pet-safe formula
- Stain Target:Coffee, sauces, pet accidents, embedded stains
- Odor Removal:Removes odors; prevents residue that attracts soil
- Portability:Spray bottle (portable)
- Additional Feature:Biodegradable formula
- Additional Feature:Made in USA
- Additional Feature:Quick-drying finish
Shark StainStriker Portable Cleaner (PX221BRN)
The Shark StainStriker Portable Cleaner (PX221BRN) is your best bet if you want fast, powerful stain removal without the hassle of premixing solutions. You get dual-activated OXY power that lifts stubborn stains and odors instantly. Its ultra-strong suction delivers 20x more stain-striking power when paired with Shark’s formula.
You’ll tackle pet messes, food spills, and embedded dirt across carpets, upholstery, and car interiors with ease. Weighing under 9 lbs, it’s lightweight and portable. Onboard self-cleaning flushes the hose and tool in seconds. You’re covered with a full suite of cleaners included, AC/DC power, and no batteries needed.
- Usage:Spot, stain, and odor removal on carpets, rugs, upholstery, car interiors
- Form Type:Portable electric cleaner (machine)
- Fabric Compatibility:Safe on carpets, rugs, upholstery, car interiors
- Stain Target:Pet urine, food stains, spills, embedded dirt
- Odor Removal:Eliminates odors; dual-activated OXY formula
- Portability:Lightweight, compact portable cleaner
- Additional Feature:Dual-activated OXY formula
- Additional Feature:Onboard self-cleaning
- Additional Feature:20x stain-striking power
Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner for Carpet
Looking for a compact cleaner that handles spills on carpets, stairs, and upholstery without the hassle? The Dirt Devil Portable Spot Cleaner’s got your back. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver, so you can tackle messes fast.
With a 19 oz. tank, you’ll clean multiple spots without constant refills. The kink-free hose and 2-in-1 pet tool make pet stains a breeze; the 4” stain tool digs out stubborn dirt. Built-in hose rinse and a removable lid simplify maintenance.
Pair it with Dirt Devil’s cleaning solution for best results. You’ll keep carpets and upholstery fresh in minutes—no heavy lifting, no stress.
- Usage:Spot cleaning for carpets, stairs, upholstery, pet stains
- Form Type:Portable electric spot cleaner (machine)
- Fabric Compatibility:For carpets and upholstery; use with compatible solution
- Stain Target:Pet stains, embedded dirt, spills
- Odor Removal:Removes dander, dust, pollen (allergens); no direct odor claim
- Portability:Lightweight, portable spot cleaner
- Additional Feature:Kink-free hose
- Additional Feature:2-in-1 pet tool
- Additional Feature:Built-in hose rinse
Chemical Guys Carpet & Upholstery Stain Extractor
You’ll love Chemical Guys Lightning Fast Carpet and Upholstery Stain Extractor if you demand pro-level results without the hassle. This hyper-concentrated formula is ready to dilute at 20:1; it tackles everything from coffee spills to pet messes with ease. You spray it directly, agitate with a brush, then blot or vacuum for spotless results.
It’s safe on natural and synthetic fibers; it won’t fade colors and eliminates odors, leaving a fresh scent. Trusted by detailers, you’ll use it in cars, trucks, RVs, boats, or on home furniture. At 16 oz, it’s compact but powerful—just a little goes a long way. You get professional performance without the fuss every time.
- Usage:Professional stain and odor removal on carpets, upholstery, car interiors
- Form Type:Liquid spray solution (concentrated)
- Fabric Compatibility:Safe on natural and synthetic fibers; no fading or discoloration
- Stain Target:Coffee, soda, wine, food, pet messes, odors
- Odor Removal:Neutralizes lingering odors; fresh scent
- Portability:Spray bottle (portable)
- Additional Feature:Hyper-concentrated formula
- Additional Feature:Dilutes 20:1
- Additional Feature:Professional detailer-approved
ZEP ZUSPOT19 Instant Spot and Stain Remover 19 oz
Need a heavy-duty stain fighter that handles grease, tar, and lipstick without elbow grease? The ZEP ZUSPOT19 Instant Spot and Stain Remover, 19 oz, is your go-to. You’ll love how it lifts tough stains from upholstery, carpets, and clothing with barely any scrubbing.
Its professional-strength formula works fast: just spray, blot, and watch messes disappear. Ideal for home use, it’s safe on soft floors and fabrics. With a compact 19 oz bottle, it’s easy to store and handle.
Customers rate it 4.3 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Available since 2010, it’s a trusted pick for adults tackling real messes. Zep delivers power, convenience, and results—every time.
- Usage:Stain removal on carpets, rugs, upholstery, clothing, soft surfaces
- Form Type:Liquid spray remover
- Fabric Compatibility:For carpets, rugs, upholstery, soft floor surfaces
- Stain Target:Grease, tar, lipstick, general stains
- Odor Removal:No specific mention
- Portability:Spray bottle (portable)
- Additional Feature:Little to no scrubbing
- Additional Feature:Spray and blot
- Additional Feature:Professional-strength formula
Factors to Consider When Choosing Spot Cleaners for Upholstery
You’ll want to check that the cleaner works with your fabric type before using it. Look for strong stain removal power; however, also make sure it’s safe around pets and kids.
Don’t overlook eco-friendly formulas that clean well without harsh chemicals.
Fabric Compatibility
How do you know if a spot cleaner won’t damage your couch? Check the Cleanability Code Tag: look for WS or W, which means water-based cleaners are safe. Avoid products on fabrics coded X or S. Don’t use them on velvet, silk, or leather unless labeled safe.
Always test colorfastness first by applying a bit of cleaner to a hidden spot. If colors bleed or change, skip it. Confirm the cleaner lists compatibility with your upholstery’s fiber—like polyester, nylon, or cotton blends—on its label. Choose options made for multi-fabric use so you’re covered if your furniture mixes materials.
Make sure it won’t cause fading or discoloration when used as directed. When in doubt, stick to gentler formulas that specify broad fabric safety. Your couch stays clean and intact when you match the cleaner to the fabric right.
Stain Removal Power
What separates a spot cleaner that merely masks stains from one that truly eliminates them? It’s the formula’s power to break down coffee, wine, grease, and ground-in dirt without just covering them up. Look for cleaners that claim to tackle 100+ messes or use dual-activated technology to lift stubborn stains and neutralize odors at the source.
A hyper-concentrated formula you can dilute up to 20:1 gives you stronger cleaning with fewer touch-ups. Proprietary stain-lift systems boost effectiveness, especially on set-in spills. Don’t overlook the tools; brushes and targeted stain tools add mechanical action to pull grime out, not just push it around.
Strong stain removal also prevents resoiling by nixing lingering smells that attract new messes. The best options don’t just clean; they lock in results.
Ease Of Use
A powerful formula means little if the cleaner is awkward to operate when a spill happens. You want something lightweight—under 10 pounds—so you can grab it fast and move easily between rooms or up stairs.
Portable, handheld models fit tight spots, like car seats or corners, without hassle. Look for onboard tools, like a 4″ stain tool or specialty attachments, so you don’t waste time digging through drawers. Integrated rinse or self-cleaning functions save effort and keep your unit hygienic between uses.
Clear instructions on spraying, scrubbing, and suction make the process simple, even under pressure. Many models include trial formulas, so you can start fast without extra shopping. With intuitive design and smart features, you’ll spend less time wrestling the machine and more time fixing the mess: exactly when you need it.
Pet Safety
Keep your pet safe by choosing spot cleaners free of harsh chemicals like chlorine, ammonia, and phosphates: these ingredients can be harmful if licked or inhaled. Opt for non-toxic, pet-safe formulas to reduce health risks.
Pick quick-drying options to minimize your pet’s contact with damp upholstery and prevent tracking wet residue. Always check that the cleaner works with your fabric type and test it in a hidden spot first to avoid damage or color transfer. That way, you won’t accidentally expose your pet to loose dyes or irritated surfaces.
Choose cleaners that neutralize odors, not just mask them: lingering scents can lure pets back to re-soil the same area. Avoid biodegradable or eco-friendly claims for now; that’s covered next. Your pet’s safety hinges on smart, informed choices: prioritize health, effectiveness, and compatibility every time.
Eco Friendly Formula
You’ve already safeguarded your pet by avoiding toxic chemicals. Now extend that care to the planet with an eco-friendly formula. Choose spot cleaners with biodegradable ingredients that break down safely, reducing harm to waterways and wildlife. Steer clear of chlorine, phosphates, and harsh VOCs to protect indoor air quality and prevent skin irritation.
Opt for plant-based or naturally derived surfactants that clean effectively without compromising the environment. Look for recyclable packaging and concentrated formulas; you use less, waste less, and cut down on plastic. Check labels for clear disposal instructions, ensuring your cleaning routine stays eco-responsible. These small steps add up, keeping your home fresh and the planet healthier.
When you pick sustainable options, you’re not just treating stains; you’re supporting a cleaner future. Eco-friendly doesn’t mean less powerful. Many green formulas tackle tough messes while meeting high environmental standards.
Built In Tools
How often do you wrestle with a messy, disassembled cleaner after tackling a stubborn stain? With spot cleaners that have built-in tools, you won’t have to. Models featuring hydro-rinse hoses automatically flush out solution and gunk; so maintenance is quick and hassle-free. Integrated scrubbing tools and 4-inch stain applicators let you agitate embedded dirt directly where it’s needed.
Onboard self-cleaning means you skip constant take-apart jobs between uses. All-in-one kits often include specialty attachments—like pet or spot tools—so you’re ready for any mess. Built-in extraction combines spray, scrub, and suction in one pass; streamlining your workflow. You’ll save time, reduce cleanup effort, and get better results.
When choosing a spot cleaner, don’t overlook these integrated features. They boost efficiency and performance without extra steps. They’re not just convenient; they’re essential for serious upholstery care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Spot Cleaners Be Used on Car Upholstery?
Yes, you can use spot cleaners on car upholstery. Just make sure you test it first. Avoid oversaturating, and choose a formula safe for automotive fabrics to prevent damage or discoloration.
Always follow the label instructions.
Are Homemade Solutions Safer Than Commercial Spot Cleaners?
You’re not always safer with homemade solutions; they can leave residues or damage fibers.
Commercial spot cleaners are tested for safety and effectiveness. Therefore, you’re better off trusting the pros than risking your upholstery with DIY mixes.
How Often Should Upholstery Be Spot Cleaned?
You should spot clean upholstery as soon as spills or stains happen to prevent setting. Don’t wait; act fast.
Over-cleaning can damage fabric, so only clean when needed and avoid doing it weekly unless heavily soiled.
Do Spot Cleaners Work on Old, Set-In Stains?
Yes, spot cleaners can lift old, set-in stains, but you’ll need to act quickly and rub gently. Let the solution sit a few minutes before blotting. You might not remove it all; however, you’ll see improvement with consistent effort.
Can I Use Spot Cleaners on Silk or Delicate Fabrics?
You shouldn’t use spot cleaners on silk or delicate fabrics; they can damage the material. Always check the care label first. If in doubt, test a small spot.
For these fabrics, stick to professional cleaning or gentle, specialty products made specifically for delicates.
Conclusion
You’ve got the power to tackle any upholstery stain with the right spot cleaner. Whether it’s a quick spill or a set-in mess, there’s a product that’s perfect for your needs. From portable cleaners to sprays, you can keep your furniture fresh and clean.
Just pick the one that fits your fabric and mess type; get to work. Your couch will thank you.
