When it comes to cleaning upholstery, carpets, and other fabric surfaces, many people rely on compact cleaning tools like the Bissell Little Green. This portable cleaning machine has gained popularity for its convenience and efficiency in tackling small spills, stains, and pet messes. However, some people may wonder: Is the Bissell Little Green a steam cleaner?
In this article, we will explore what the Bissell Little Green actually is, how it works, and whether it can be considered a steam cleaner. By the end of this guide, you will have a better understanding of how this handy machine operates and whether it meets your cleaning needs.
What is the Bissell Little Green?
The Bissell Little Green is a portable carpet and upholstery cleaner designed to help you remove tough stains from various surfaces. It is a compact, lightweight machine that is easy to maneuver, making it perfect for cleaning smaller areas or dealing with accidents like spilled drinks, pet messes, and other stains.
This cleaner is specifically designed for spot cleaning and can be used on carpets, upholstery, stairs, area rugs, and even car interiors. The Little Green is known for its deep cleaning capabilities, which involve both suction and scrubbing to remove stains and dirt from fabric surfaces. But does it utilize steam to achieve these results?
How Does the Bissell Little Green Work?
The Bissell Little Green works by spraying a cleaning solution onto the stained area, scrubbing it with a motorized brush, and then suctioning up the dirt and liquid. The process involves a combination of liquid cleaning and mechanical agitation to lift and remove soil and stains from surfaces.
Unlike steam cleaners, which rely solely on high-temperature steam to lift and clean dirt, the Little Green uses water and cleaning solution in conjunction with a built-in suction system to remove debris and stains. The machine does not heat the water to steam-like temperatures, which is a key difference from a steam cleaner.
The Difference Between a Steam Cleaner and a Carpet Cleaner
To fully understand the Bissell Little Green’s function, it’s important to distinguish between a steam cleaner and a carpet cleaner. While both types of machines can clean various surfaces, they operate using different methods.
Steam Cleaners
A steam cleaner uses high-temperature steam (usually above 200°F) to clean surfaces. The steam loosens dirt, kills bacteria, and can sanitize surfaces without the need for harsh chemicals. Steam cleaning is a popular choice for cleaning floors, grout, upholstery, and even mattresses. Steam cleaners are generally effective at removing deep-seated grime and can also kill germs and allergens due to the high heat.
Carpet Cleaners (like Bissell Little Green)
Carpet cleaners, on the other hand, are designed to wash and rinse carpeted surfaces, upholstery, and other fabrics. While some carpet cleaners may use hot water to clean, they do not typically reach the high temperatures associated with steam cleaners. The Bissell Little Green, for example, uses a combination of cleaning solution and water to treat stains, which is not the same as the dry heat produced by steam cleaners.
Does the Bissell Little Green Use Steam?
No, the Bissell Little Green does not use steam. Instead, it uses a combination of water, cleaning solution, and mechanical agitation to clean surfaces. The water in the Little Green is not heated to the temperatures needed to produce steam. Instead, the machine relies on its motorized brush and suction system to remove dirt and stains from fabrics.
While the Little Green’s cleaning power is significant, it is not designed to provide the same level of sanitation that steam cleaners offer. Steam cleaners, due to their high temperatures, are able to kill bacteria, mold, and dust mites. The Little Green, however, uses water and cleaning solutions to lift and remove dirt and stains, without sanitizing the surface to the same extent as a steam cleaner.
What Are the Advantages of the Bissell Little Green?
While the Bissell Little Green may not be a steam cleaner, it still offers many advantages when it comes to spot cleaning and stain removal. Here are some of the key benefits of using the Little Green:
1. Portability
The Bissell Little Green is lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for cleaning small spills and stains in hard-to-reach areas. Whether you need to clean upholstery, stairs, or your car’s interior, this portable cleaner is convenient for quick cleaning jobs.
2. Powerful Suction
The Little Green features strong suction that helps lift dirt, debris, and liquids from surfaces. This suction power is essential for removing stubborn stains and ensuring that the fabric is thoroughly cleaned.
3. Versatile Cleaning
The Bissell Little Green can be used on a variety of surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, area rugs, stairs, and car seats. It is equipped with multiple tools, such as a tough stain tool and a crevice tool, to help you clean different types of surfaces and reach narrow spaces.
4. Chemical-Free Cleaning
Although the Bissell Little Green uses a cleaning solution, it can also be used with water alone, making it a relatively eco-friendly option for people who want to avoid harsh chemicals. There are even eco-friendly cleaning solutions available for the Little Green if you want to minimize your environmental impact.
5. Affordable
Compared to traditional steam cleaners, the Bissell Little Green is an affordable option for people who need a machine to tackle small to medium-sized cleaning jobs. It offers powerful cleaning capabilities at a much lower price point than high-end steam cleaning machines.
What Are the Disadvantages of the Bissell Little Green?
Despite its many advantages, the Bissell Little Green is not suitable for all cleaning needs. Here are a few limitations of the machine:
1. Does Not Sanitize
As mentioned earlier, the Bissell Little Green does not reach the high temperatures required to sanitize surfaces. If you’re looking for a cleaner that can kill bacteria, mold, or dust mites, a steam cleaner may be a better choice for you.
2. Not Ideal for Large Areas
While the Little Green is great for spot cleaning, it may not be the best option for cleaning large carpeted areas. For bigger cleaning jobs, such as deep-cleaning an entire carpet, a larger carpet cleaner or steam cleaner would be more efficient.
3. Requires Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
To maintain the performance of the Bissell Little Green, it requires regular cleaning and maintenance. You will need to empty the dirty water tank, clean the filters, and rinse the brushes after each use to ensure the machine operates at its best.
How Does the Bissell Little Green Compare to a Steam Cleaner?
The main difference between the Bissell Little Green and a steam cleaner lies in their cleaning methods. Steam cleaners use high heat to sanitize and remove dirt, while the Little Green uses water and cleaning solution to lift stains and dirt.
If you’re primarily concerned with removing stains from carpets or upholstery, the Bissell Little Green can be a great option. It offers convenience, strong suction, and portability. However, if you want a deeper clean that includes sanitizing and killing germs, mold, and bacteria, a steam cleaner would be more suitable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the Bissell Little Green is not a steam cleaner, it is a powerful and effective carpet and upholstery cleaner. The Little Green excels at spot cleaning, removing stains, and providing an easy solution for small cleaning jobs. It offers excellent portability, suction, and versatility, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who need a compact machine for everyday messes. However, if you’re seeking a device that uses steam for deep cleaning and sanitizing, a steam cleaner would be the better option. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific cleaning needs and preferences.
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