The Bissell SpotClean Pro and the Shark StainStriker are two of the most popular portable carpet and upholstery cleaners on the market. Both promise to banish stubborn stains and pet messes with ease, offering a convenient alternative to full-sized carpet cleaning machines. But which one is the better choice for your needs? This review dives deep into their design, performance, features, and value to help you decide. The Bissell SpotClean Pro has a proven track record and strong reputation for tackling tough stains, while the Shark StainStriker aims to disrupt the market with its innovative features and dual-brush technology.
Choosing between these two stain extractors depends on your specific needs and priorities. Do you prioritize raw cleaning power and a larger tank capacity, or are you looking for a more compact and user-friendly design with specialized stain-fighting features? We’ll break down the pros and cons of each machine to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Bissell SpotClean Pro:
- Pros: Superior stain removal on most surfaces, larger tank capacity, longer hose, more established brand reputation.
- Cons: Bulkier design, louder operation, fewer specialized stain-fighting features compared to the Shark.
- Shark StainStriker:
- Pros: Lighter and more compact design, dual-brush technology for enhanced stain lifting, integrated hose cleaning tool, pre-mixed cleaning solutions.
- Cons: Smaller tank capacity, slightly less powerful suction, shorter hose.
- Verdict: The Bissell SpotClean Pro is a workhorse with exceptional cleaning power and a larger capacity, making it ideal for heavy-duty stain removal. The Shark StainStriker offers a more convenient and user-friendly experience with its compact design and specialized features, making it great for quick cleanups and targeted stain removal. A score is not applicable as this is a comparison review.
Specifications
| Feature | Bissell SpotClean Pro | Shark StainStriker |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number | 3624 | HW650 Series |
| Tank Capacity (Dirty) | 96 oz (2.8 L) | 16 oz (0.47 L) |
| Hose Length | 5 ft (1.5 m) | 4 ft (1.2 m) |
| Weight | 13 lbs (5.9 kg) | 7.4 lbs (3.4 kg) |
| Dimensions | 10″ L x 14″ W x 12.5″ H (25.4 cm x 35.6 cm x 31.8 cm) | 16.14″ L x 6.3″ W x 9.45″ H (41 cm x 16 cm x 24 cm) |
| Attachments | 3″ Tough Stain Tool, Deep Stain Tool | 2-in-1 Deep Clean Tool, WideTrack Tool |
| Cord Length | 22 ft (6.7 m) | 15 ft (4.6 m) |
| Warranty | 2 years limited | 1 year limited |
Price and Availability
- Bissell SpotClean Pro: Typically retails for around $150-$180. Available at major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and the Bissell website. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, especially during holidays.
- Shark StainStriker: Generally priced in the $100-$150 range. Can be found at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Kohl’s, and directly from the SharkClean website. Bundles with extra cleaning solutions are sometimes available.
Design and Build Quality
The Bissell SpotClean Pro features a robust, utilitarian design. It’s built with durable plastic that feels solid and capable of withstanding regular use. The machine is relatively bulky, which can make it slightly cumbersome to store and carry. The tanks are made of thick, transparent plastic, allowing you to easily monitor water levels. The hose is generously long and flexible.
In contrast, the Shark StainStriker boasts a more modern and sleek aesthetic. Its compact design makes it significantly lighter and easier to maneuver than the Bissell. The materials feel slightly less premium, but the overall build quality is still decent. The StainStriker’s tanks are smaller and the hose is shorter, but the integrated hose-cleaning tool is a clever touch. The dual-brush head is a unique feature that sets it apart visually.
Performance and Features
Stain Removal
The Bissell SpotClean Pro excels at removing embedded stains and ground-in dirt. Its powerful suction and effective cleaning solution work together to lift stains from carpets, upholstery, and even car interiors. In standardized stain-removal tests, the Bissell consistently outperformed the Shark on older, set-in stains like red wine, coffee, and mud. Its Deep Stain Tool is particularly effective for reaching deep into carpet fibers.
The Shark StainStriker employs a dual-brush system that agitates and lifts stains more effectively than traditional single-brush designs. Its pre-mixed cleaning solutions are formulated for specific types of stains, such as pet messes or everyday spills. While the Shark performs well on fresh stains, it struggles a bit more with older, stubborn stains compared to the Bissell.
Ease of Use
The Shark StainStriker shines in terms of user-friendliness. Its lightweight design and compact size make it easy to carry around the house and store in tight spaces. The pre-mixed cleaning solution cartridges eliminate the guesswork of mixing solutions. The integrated hose-cleaning tool is a convenient feature that helps prevent clogs and maintain hygiene.
The Bissell SpotClean Pro is less convenient to use due to its larger size and heavier weight. Mixing the cleaning solution manually can be a bit messy. However, its larger tank capacity means you won’t have to refill it as often, making it better suited for tackling larger cleaning jobs.
Attachments and Accessories
The Bissell SpotClean Pro includes two attachments: a 3″ Tough Stain Tool and a Deep Stain Tool. The Tough Stain Tool is ideal for general stain removal, while the Deep Stain Tool is designed to penetrate deep into carpet fibers to remove embedded stains.
The Shark StainStriker comes with a 2-in-1 Deep Clean Tool and a WideTrack Tool. The Deep Clean Tool can be used with or without bristles, depending on the surface you’re cleaning. The WideTrack Tool covers a larger surface area, making it suitable for cleaning larger spills.
Battery Life
Neither of these products are cordless, so this section is not applicable.
Software and User Experience
Neither of these products have software components, so this section is not applicable.
Comparison to Competitors
Bissell SpotClean Pro vs. Hoover Spotless Portable Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner
The Hoover Spotless is another popular portable carpet cleaner. While it’s more compact than the Bissell SpotClean Pro, it doesn’t offer the same level of cleaning power or tank capacity. The Bissell excels at removing tough, set-in stains, while the Hoover is better suited for light-duty cleaning tasks and quick cleanups.
Shark StainStriker vs. Little Green ProHeat Portable Carpet Cleaner
The Little Green ProHeat is a compact and affordable option. However, it lacks the specialized features of the Shark StainStriker, such as the dual-brush technology and pre-mixed cleaning solutions. The Shark offers a more convenient and effective stain-removal experience, especially for pet owners.
Pros and Cons
Bissell SpotClean Pro
- Pros:
- Powerful stain removal
- Large tank capacity
- Long hose
- Durable build quality
- Cons:
- Bulky and heavy
- Louder operation
- Less convenient than the Shark
Shark StainStriker
- Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Dual-brush technology
- Pre-mixed cleaning solutions
- Integrated hose cleaning tool
- Cons:
- Smaller tank capacity
- Shorter hose
- Less effective on old, set-in stains
Value for Money
The Bissell SpotClean Pro offers excellent value for money due to its powerful cleaning performance and durable construction. While it’s not the most convenient option, it’s a reliable workhorse that can handle even the toughest stains.
The Shark StainStriker provides good value for those who prioritize convenience and ease of use. Its specialized features and compact design make it a great choice for quick cleanups and targeted stain removal. However, its higher price tag may not be justified for those who primarily need a machine for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
The Bissell SpotClean Pro is ideal for:
- Homeowners with pets who need to tackle frequent messes
- Families with young children who are prone to spills and stains
- Anyone who needs to clean large areas of carpet or upholstery
- Individuals who value raw cleaning power over convenience
The Shark StainStriker is ideal for:
- Apartment dwellers with limited storage space
- People who want a lightweight and easy-to-use stain remover
- Those who prefer pre-mixed cleaning solutions
- Individuals who need a machine for quick cleanups and targeted stain removal
Verdict
Both the Bissell SpotClean Pro and the Shark StainStriker are excellent portable carpet cleaners. The best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a powerful and reliable machine for tackling tough stains and large cleaning jobs, the Bissell SpotClean Pro is the way to go. If you prioritize convenience, ease of use, and specialized stain-fighting features, the Shark StainStriker is a great option.
