Abstract: The handheld fluid extraction cleaner includes a body having a forward end, a rearward end, and a top wall extending between the forward and rearward ends. A fluid container unit is removably mounted on the cleaner body between the forward and rearward ends thereof, and the fluid container is spaced from the top wall of the body. A plenum chamber is provided in spaced relationship to the forward and rearward ends of the body, and the plenum chamber extends from the top wall to an open end which opens into the fluid container. A vacuum unit is mounted on the cleaner body and is operative to create a reduction of pressure in the plenum chamber, and the vacuum unit communicates with the plenum chamber in an area adjacent to the top wall of the body. A nozzle is formed at the forward end of the cleaner body for contacting a surface to be cleaned, and a fluid conduct extends from the nozzle to the fluid container and opens into the fluid container at a point adjacent to the open end of the plenum chamber.