Our Verdict
Hoover CleanSlate Plus Wins

Its 40 oz tank allows for longer cleaning without refills, unlike Rug Doctor's unspecified capacity. Choose Rug Doctor for its specialized pet tool and stated 2X suction power, ideal for embedded pet messes.
Bottom Line: Hoover CleanSlate Plus is the better choice. Its 40 oz tank allows for longer cleaning without refills, unlike Rug Doctor's unspecified capacity.
Key Differences
The most significant spec differences at a glance
Tank Capacity
100% moreAdvantages
Where each product wins
Hoover
- Tank Capacity: 100% higher (40.0 vs 0)
Who Should Buy Which?
Find the right product for your needs
Buy Hoover if...
Hoover CleanSlate Plus Portable
The ideal buyer for the Hoover CleanSlate Plus is someone seeking a versatile and budget-friendly spot cleaner for various household spills. If you frequently encounter different types and sizes of messes, appreciate a large 40 oz tank to minimize refills, and value tools for both wide areas (7-inch WidePath) and tight spaces (TightSpot Tool), this is your pick. It's perfect for those who want comprehensive spot cleaning capabilities, including car interiors, without breaking the bank, and who appreciate a self-cleaning hose for easy maintenance.
Buy Rug Doctor if...
Rug Doctor Pet Portable
This machine is perfect for pet owners whose primary concern is eliminating deep-set pet stains and persistent odors. If you prioritize maximum suction power (2X suction) and a specialized tool designed to scrub and lift embedded pet hair, the Rug Doctor is for you. Despite a higher price and fewer general-purpose tools, its pro-grade power and dedicated "Handheld Dual Action Pet Tool" make it invaluable for tackling the toughest pet-related messes on carpets and upholstery where specialized pet cleaning is paramount.
Spec Comparison
6 specs compared
| Specification | ![]() | ![]() |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $108 | $139 |
| Rating | 4.3(12.0k) | 4.1(3.1k) |
| Tank Capacity oz | 40 | 0 |
| Power Rating Amps | 0 | 0 |
| Self Cleaning | Yes | — |
| Tools Included | 7 WidePath Tool, TightSpot Tool, Hose Rinse Tool | Handheld Dual Action Pet Tool |
| Formula Included | Yes | — |
| Spray Width Inches | 7" | — |
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Pros & Cons
Quick overview of strengths and weaknesses
Hoover CleanSlate Plus
- 40 oz tank reduces refill frequency
- Dual tanks separate clean and dirty water
- 7-inch tool cleans wider spot areas
- TightSpot tool accesses narrow spaces
- Requires ongoing purchase of cleaning solution
- Manual operation of hose rinse tool
- No built-in drying feature
Rug Doctor Pet Portable
- Strong suction effectively lifts stains.
- Handheld tool scrubs embedded pet hair.
- Dual tanks separate clean and dirty water.
- Wheels and handle simplify movement.
- Designed for spot cleaning, not full room use.
- Includes only one specialized cleaning tool.
- Tank capacity not specified.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this comparison
Which is better for general home spot cleaning?
Hoover CleanSlate Plus offers more versatility with its 7 WidePath and TightSpot tools, along with a larger 40 oz tank, making it suitable for a wider range of spills and areas around the home.
What's the main difference in tank capacity?
The Hoover CleanSlate Plus has a specified 40 oz tank, minimizing refills during use. The Rug Doctor's tank capacity is not specified in its details, which might mean more frequent emptying or refilling depending on the actual size.
Which has better specialized tools for cleaning?
Hoover provides a 7 WidePath, TightSpot, and Hose Rinse tool for varied cleaning and maintenance. Rug Doctor includes a single Handheld Dual Action Pet Tool, which is highly specialized for tackling pet hair and specific pet messes effectively.
Which product is more effective for pet-specific messes?
The Rug Doctor Pet Portable is explicitly designed for pets, featuring a dedicated Handheld Dual Action Pet Tool and claiming 2X suction power, making it highly effective for deep-seated pet stains and embedded hair.
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