After each use
Do the cleanup before putting the machine away: empty the dirty-water tank, rinse the used tools, run the hose-cleaning routine for your model and let removable parts dry. A self-cleaning attachment handles part of that job, not the whole machine.
This guide covers the Little Green Mini 4075, Max Pet 3860 and CleanSlate Plus FH14050. Check the model label and your supplied manual before following a model section. Other cleaners, cordless versions and similarly named bundles can have different instructions.
- Turn the machine off and unplug it before removing tanks or washing parts. Reconnect it only for the powered rinse step described for your model, with the tanks secured and your hands and plug dry.
- Empty dirty liquid and rinse the tank and lid. Clear loose hair and debris from the removable cleaning head.
- Follow the correct hose-rinse steps below. Empty the dirty tank again afterward.
- Allow the removable parts to dry before reassembly and storage.
Keep the motor base and electrical parts out of the sink. Do not put the whole machine under a tap. Use the water temperature, solution and attachments specified in your manual.
Model-specific cleanup
BISSELL Little Green Mini 4075
With the machine off and unplugged, lift the dirty-tank latch, remove the tank, empty it and rinse it with warm water. Press the hose tool’s release button and pull the tool straight off; do not twist it. Remove its clear lens and rinse the lens and tool. Let them dry.
If your Mini includes the HydroRinse attachment, fit it as directed. With the tanks secured and enough clean liquid for rinsing, turn the machine on, hold the hose and HydroRinse tool upright and hold the trigger for 30 seconds. Turn off and unplug before removing and emptying the dirty tank again.
Inspect the hose for damage and wipe debris from the tank seating area. Dry the tank parts before putting them back. Use the supplied manual if your attachment differs.
BISSELL Little Green Max Pet 3860
The 2-in-1 Tough Stain Tool uses a lever for its cleanout mode. With enough liquid in the clean tank, space in the dirty tank and both tanks fitted, turn the machine on. Move the tool lever down to CLEANOUT and press the trigger so liquid passes through the tool and hose. Return the lever to SPRAY if you will continue cleaning.
When finished, turn off and unplug. Remove and empty the dirty tank, rinse the tank and lid, and check that the float is free of debris. Release the stain tool without twisting it, remove its lens and rinse the lens. Let the removable parts dry before reassembly.
The tool’s cleanout mode does not wash the tank or remove every piece of hair from the nozzle. Do those parts separately.
Hoover CleanSlate Plus FH14050
Remove and rinse the used hand tool with the machine unplugged. Unlatch its clear nozzle cover, remove the insert and rinse those parts as directed.
For the hose rinse, fill the solution tank with warm water to its small-area line. Fit the Hose Rinse Tool instead of the cleaning head and secure both tanks. Turn the machine on and hold the trigger for 30 seconds. Release it and let the machine run for another 5–10 seconds before switching off. Repeat as needed, without overfilling the recovery tank.
Turn off and unplug before emptying the recovery tank. Rinse the tank and let it air-dry before reinstalling. This procedure is for FH14050, not the built-in rinse system on a CleanSlate XL.
Before you store the machine
Check that the removable parts are dry and the tank lid and seals sit correctly. Wrap the hose and cord using the machine’s holders. Store indoors in a dry place protected from freezing.
Do not substitute dish soap, bleach, vinegar or another household cleaner for the products and rinse method allowed by your manual. Extra foam or a stronger mixture is not a shortcut to cleaning the machine.
If it still leaks, will not spray or has poor pickup after routine cleaning, stop and use the manufacturer’s troubleshooting instructions. A torn hose or damaged seal needs attention; repeating a rinse is not a repair. Do not open the motor housing for a cleanup job.
If you are still choosing a machine, our Mini vs Max Pet comparison explains their differences in weight, capacity and tools.