Bissell Big Green Machine Shopping & Usage Guide

The Bissell Big Green Machine stands out as a top choice for anyone seeking a powerful and reliable carpet cleaner. Renowned for its deep-cleaning performance and durability, it tackles the toughest stains with ease. Whether you’re a homeowner or pet parent, this guide will help you decide if the Big Green is the smart investment your carpets deserve.

Bissell Big Green Machine: A Comprehensive Shopping and Usage Guide

Bissell Big Green Machine Models: Comparison Table

Model Name	Intended Use	Key Features	Weight	Hose Length	Tools Included	Cleaning Solution	Warranty	Unique Extras
Big Green Professional 86T3	Home/Professional	XL DirtLifter PowerBrush, 2 Tanks	42 lbs	9 feet	6″ Tough Stain Tool	PRO MAX Clean+Protect	5 Years	Accessory kit included, fixed cord
Big Green PET PRO 3288	Pet Owners	8-Row PowerBrush, Dual Tanks	44 lbs	9 feet	2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool	Pet Pro Oxy Formula	5 Years	Advanced pet odor removal tools
BigGreen Commercial BG10	Commercial/Rental	Same cleaning power, Detachable cord	42 lbs	9 feet*	No accessory kit standard	Varies	1 Year	Yellow detachable cord

*Hose length may vary by accessory package.

Key Features and Benefits

Deep Cleaning Power for Professional Results

Commercial-Grade Performance: Designed to deliver results rivaling professional carpet cleaners, these machines are recognized for their ability to tackle deeply embedded dirt, stains, and odors—even in homes with kids and pets.
XL DirtLifter® PowerBrush: The machine’s signature rotating brushes (with up to 8 rows) agitate and loosen dirt from carpet fibers for true deep cleaning.
Superior Suction: High-power motors extract moisture and residues, meaning carpets dry faster (often in 1-3 hours) and are walkable soon after cleaning.
Dual Large-Capacity Tanks: With separate tanks for clean and dirty water (1.75-gallon capacity each), you can clean larger spaces with fewer trips to the sink.

Versatility Across Surfaces

Carpets & Rugs: Ideal for wall-to-wall carpets, area rugs, and high-traffic pathways.
Upholstery & Stairs: The included long-reach hose and Tough Stain Tool allow you to easily clean furniture, pet beds, stairs, and other tight spots.
Pet Accident Mastery: The PET PRO model includes specialized pet tools and cleaning solutions to tackle stubborn urine, waste, or vomit stains and odors.

Built for Durability and User Comfort

Heavy-Duty Construction: Designed with longevity in mind, the hefty (42-44 lbs) frame ensures stability and resists tipping, even on thick carpet.
Ergonomic Adjustable Handle: Designed for comfort during extended use; the handle can also fold for easier storage.
Lengthy Reach: A 25-foot power cord allows you to clean large rooms without constantly switching outlets. The 9-foot hose extends your reach to tight corners and above-floor surfaces.

Specialized Tools for Spot and Stain Cleaning

6-inch Tough Stain Tool: Essential for handling old coffee, wine, pet, or food stains—just connect, spray, and scrub.
PET PRO Upgrades: Adds a 2-in-1 pet upholstery tool for more targeted stain and hair removal on furniture and bedding.

User-Friendly Cleaning and Maintenance

Straightforward Controls: Large trigger and easily accessible switches make operation simple.
Quick Fill & Empty Process: Tanks lift off for fast refills and emptying. Accessible design ensures minimal mess during cleaning/maintenance.
Minimal Downtime: Clean longer between refills, making it ideal for cleaning multiple rooms or large spaces in one session.

How to Use and Care for Your Bissell Big Green Machine

Step-by-Step Deep Cleaning

Prep the Area
Thoroughly vacuum the surface to remove loose dirt.
Pretreat set-in stains with appropriate sprays if desired.
Fill the Tank
Remove both tanks. Fill the clean water tank to the fill line with hot tap (not boiling) water.
Add the correct amount of cleaning solution based on label directions.
Set Up and Clean
Recline the handle (using the green lever at the back).
Power on the machine.
Squeeze the trigger for a slow forward and backward pass, dispensing solution onto the carpet.
Release the trigger and make another pass (forward and backward) to extract dirty water.
Spot-Cleaning Stains
Attach the 6″ Tough Stain Tool or pet tool and use the 9’ hose for couches, stairs, or tough spots.
For pet stains, blot excess, pretreat, then use the tool to clean deeply.
Empty and Rinse Tanks
When finished, empty the dirty water tank and rinse both tanks with soapy water.
Periodically clean the brush and nozzle to maintain performance.
Drying Time
Allow carpets to dry for 1-3 hours. For faster results, increase air circulation with fans or open windows.

Storage and Maintenance

Always store the unit with empty tanks to prevent mildew or odors.
Carefully coil or arrange the hose (some models lack a dedicated caddy).
The handle can fold down 90° to reduce vertical storage space.

Safety and Usage Tips for Home and Hobbyist Users

Machine Weight: (42-44 lbs) Be cautious when moving upstairs. Always empty tanks before lifting.
Safe Surfaces: Use on carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and car interiors with proper attachment. Do not use on hardwood, laminate, or delicate fabrics that require dry-cleaning only.
Cleaning Solutions: While Bissell formulas are recommended, other non-foaming carpet detergents are compatible. Never use dish soap or high-foam solutions to avoid damaging the machine.
Power Safety: Use with grounded outlets. Avoid running over the cord with the cleaner.
Tank Cleaning: After each use, empty and rinse tanks to prevent odors, stains, and bacteria buildup.

Best Practices for Choosing and Using Your Bissell Big Green Machine

How to Choose the Right Model

For General Home Use: The Big Green Professional (86T3) strikes a strong balance for most users.
For Pet Households: Upgrade to the Big Green PET PRO (3288) for specialized pet tools and formulas.
For Commercial Cleaning or Frequent Rental Use: Consider the BG10 (detachable yellow cord; fewer included accessories but commercial flexibility).

Buying vs. Renting

Rental: Great if you only need a deep clean once or twice a year. Machines are available at numerous hardware and grocery stores, typically for $30-$40 per day.
Purchase: Ideal if you have kids, pets, or high-traffic areas, or want a cleaner that’s never used by someone else. The investment pays off in convenience, readiness, and long-term savings.

Carpet Cleaning Tips

Vacuum thoroughly before using the machine.
Use hot—not boiling—tap water for the best cleaning and solution activation.
Remove as much furniture as possible from the area to be cleaned.
Overlap passes by 3-4 inches for uniform results.
Do a final, solution-free wet pass to maximize water extraction and speed drying.
Use fans or open windows to ventilate and speed dry time after cleaning.
Clean the machine’s tanks, brushes, and nozzle after every use.

Handling Stubborn Stains

Pretreat with an enzymatic or oxygenated formula for pet accidents or old stains.
Use the Tough Stain Tool for targeted agitation of problem spots.
For exceptionally stubborn stains, allow pretreatment to dwell for 5-10 minutes before using the machine.

Storage and Longevity

Fold the handle for compact storage.
Coil or secure the hose to prevent damage (some users use a simple loop; a bin or basket nearby can help).
Store in a dry, cool place away from excessive moisture or direct sunlight.
Regularly inspect brushes and hoses for debris buildup or blockages.

Technical Comparison Table: Bissell Big Green Models

Feature	Big Green 86T3	PET PRO 3288	BG10 Commercial
Power Cord Length	25 feet	25 feet	25 feet (yellow, det.)
Clean Tank Capacity	1.75 gal	1.75 gal	1.75 gal
Dirty Tank Capacity	1.75 gal	1.75 gal	1.75 gal
Weight	42 lbs	44 lbs	42 lbs
Cleaning Path	10.5″	10.5″	10.5″
Hose Length	9 feet	9 feet	9 feet (varies)
Power Rating	12 amps	12 amps	12 amps
Brush System	Rotating DirtLifter®	8-Row DirtLifter®	Rotating DirtLifter®
Accessories Included	6″ Tough Stain Tool	2-in-1 Pet Tool, 6″ Tool	None standard*
Pet-Specific?	No	Yes	No
Warranty	5 Years	5 Years	1 Year
Cord Type	Fixed (black)	Fixed	Detachable (yellow)
Storage Capabilities	Folding handle	Folding handle	Folding handle

*BG10 frequently sold without included accessory kit, but accessories are compatible.

Conclusion

The Bissell Big Green Machine stands out as a best-in-class home and light commercial carpet cleaner. Its heavyweight power, deep-cleaning brushes, generous tank size, and robust set of accessories put professional-quality carpet and upholstery cleaning directly in your hands. From high-traffic hallways to messy pet households, the Big Green delivers consistent, powerful results with straightforward operation.

Buying or renting the right model depends on your needs—but whether you’re seeking routine maintenance of plush carpets, clearing out pet stains, or preparing for seasonal cleaning, this machine’s durability, versatility, and efficiency make it a worthwhile investment. Remember, regular maintenance of both your carpets and the machine will ensure long-term performance and satisfaction.

FAQ

What’s the difference between the Bissell Big Green 86T3, PET PRO, and BG10 models?
The 86T3 is the standard home/professional model with a full accessory kit and long warranty. The PET PRO model includes advanced pet-specific tools and cleaning solutions, while the BG10 is a commercial variant with a detachable power cord and is often sold without accessories.
How heavy is the Bissell Big Green Machine, and is it easy to move?
It weighs 42-44 lbs when empty. While this provides stability, it can be cumbersome for some, especially when carrying upstairs. Always empty the tanks before lifting for easier handling.
Do I have to use only Bissell cleaning solutions?
No, while Bissell solutions are recommended for best results and warranty, any non-foaming carpet cleaning formula is compatible. Avoid regular soaps or detergents, as they can damage the machine.
Can I use the Big Green Machine on upholstery or car interiors?
Yes! Using the included hose and tools, you can clean couches, chairs, pet beds, and car interiors. Always check fabric care labels first.
How long does it take for carpets to dry after cleaning?
With Big Green’s powerful suction, most carpets dry in 1 to 3 hours. Use fans or open windows to speed up drying time.
Does the machine heat the water?
No, it does not produce heat. Fill the clean tank with hot tap water for best cleaning results. The machine’s insulation helps retain heat during the cleaning process.
How often should I clean or maintain the Bissell Big Green?
After every use, empty and rinse the tanks, and periodically clean the brushes and hose. Routine maintenance helps prevent odors and prolongs the machine’s lifespan.
Can I rent the Bissell Big Green Machine instead of buying?
Yes, it’s widely available for rent at grocery, hardware, and pet stores. Rental is budget-friendly for occasional use, while purchase is recommended for frequent deep cleaning.
What surfaces should I avoid cleaning with the Big Green?
Avoid hard floors (wood, laminate, tile) and delicate textiles that require dry-clean only. Use on carpets, rugs with solid backing, and upholstery that is safe for wet cleaning.
What warranty coverage does the Bissell Big Green offer?
Most home units (86T3, PET PRO) come with an industry-leading 5-year warranty. Commercial (BG10) units often have a 1-year warranty. Always check details with your retailer at purchase.

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Bissell Big Green Machine: A Comprehensive Shopping and Usage Guide

Bissell Big Green Machine Models: Comparison Table

Key Features and Benefits