I take a lot of pride in keeping my home nice and clean, but with the countless projects going on and five boys running around, it’s not easy. Although I’ve tried almost every upholstery cleaner under the sun, there’s only one that is actually able to keep up with our family – the Bissell Little Green Machine.
Today on the blog, I’ll be chatting all about the best upholstery cleaner I’ve tried: The Green Machine! Although not everything about it is perfect, it’s saved my house time and time again from spills and dirt.
Not sure what I’m talking about just yet? You can check it out on Amazon here.
Let’s be real…do Upholstery Cleaners work In General?
Before we dive into the magic of the Bissell Little Green Machine, let’s talk upholstery cleaners in general.
Let’s be honest: upholstery—whether it’s your family room couch, a favorite armchair, or your car seats—collects dirt, stains, and odors over time. That’s where upholstery cleaners come in.
They’re designed to deep clean fabric, removing grime and freshening up your space far more effectively than blotting or spot-cleaning alone. But do they actually work? In short: yes. Modern upholstery cleaners, especially portable models, can lift stains, eliminate odors, and extend the life of your furniture and car interior. That said, not all of them are created equal and work WAY better than others.
Bissell Little Green Machine: My Honest Review
After trying several upholstery cleaners, the Bissell Little Green Machine stands out as a favorite. It’s more than just a cleaning gadget—it’s a reliable solution for anyone who wants a cleaner, fresher home and car. Here’s what sets it apart:
Pros:
- Eco-Friendly: One of my favorite features of the Bissell Little Green Machine is how clean the ingredients are. It doesn’t use harsh chemicals, making it a green (get it) cleaning solution.
- Effective Stain Removal: This machine tackles stains with ease. Seriously, there’s not a stain in our home that hasn’t been removed from this.
- Quick Drying: Unlike some upholstery cleaners that leave your furniture damp for hours, the Green Machine has a quick drying time.
- Easy to Use: It’s such a simple set-up process. Just fill the tank, turn it on, and suck up any stain on your upholstery.
- Versatility: It’s not just for your living room furniture. I’ve used it on everything: car upholstery, dining chairs, and even mattresses.
Cons:
- Price: It’s not the cheapest upholstery cleaner on the market. However, when you consider its performance, the cost is justifiable.
- Cord Length: The cord length is short. Depending on your cleaning needs, you might need an extension cord, I usually do when cleaning in my car.
How To Use The Bissell Little Green Machine
Now, let’s get to the nitty-gritty of using the Bissell Little Green Machine. I promise, it’s not rocket science; it’s actually quite simple.
- Preparation: Before you start, clear the upholstery you want to clean of loose dirt or debris. If you have kids or pets, this step is particularly important. The Green Machine works best with just the stain.
- Fill the Tank: Next, fill the machine’s tank with warm water and the recommended cleaning solution. It works quite well, smells fantastic, and is chemical-free.
- Cleaning: Turn on the machine and make slow, overlapping passes over the stained or soiled areas. The suction does most of the heavy lifting, removing dirt and moisture.
- Drying: After cleaning, let the upholstery dry completely. The Green Machine’s drying time is a massive advantage, especially if it’s in a spot you consistently use.
My Top Cleaning Tips
Using the Green Machine is just one part of the upholstery cleaning equation. Here are some additional tips to ensure your upholstery stays fresh and inviting:
- Regular Maintenance: Don’t wait until your upholstery is a mess. Quick spot cleaning and vacuuming can help prevent stains from setting in.
- Check Fabric Compatibility: Different upholstery fabrics require different cleaning approaches. Always check the care label on your furniture and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Test in an Inconspicuous Area: Before going full steam ahead with any cleaner, including the Green Machine, it’s wise to test it in a hidden spot on your upholstery to make sure it doesn’t cause any damage or discoloration.
- Blot, Don’t Rub: When dealing with spills or stains, remember to blot rather than rub. Rubbing can spread the stain and damage the fabric.
- Protect and Prevent: Consider using fabric protectors on your upholstery to make it more stain-resistant. And implement some house rules like “no eating on the couch” to prevent future messes.
Do you have a favorite upholstery cleaner on the market? Please let me know in the comments! And to keep up with all things on the blog, check out my latest posts:
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