The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam and the Shark HydroVac are both innovative hard floor cleaners designed to vacuum and wash your floors simultaneously, saving you time and effort. They represent a growing category of appliances aimed at simplifying floor cleaning and offering an all-in-one solution. Consumers looking to replace separate vacuuming and mopping routines, or those seeking a convenient way to maintain hard floors, are likely considering these machines.
Both the Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam and the Shark HydroVac promise to clean effectively, but they differ in their approach, features, and performance. The CrossWave HydroSteam boasts steam cleaning capabilities for tackling stubborn messes and sanitizing floors, while the HydroVac focuses on powerful suction and odor neutralization. Understanding these differences is crucial to choosing the right cleaner for your specific needs and floor types.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Review
- Shark HydroVac Review
- Key Differences at a Glance
- Specifications Comparison
- Price Comparison
- Design and Build Quality
- Performance Face-Off
- Special Features Comparison
- Usability and User Experience
- Maintenance and Longevity
- Who Should Buy the Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam?
- Who Should Buy the Shark HydroVac?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For tackling tough messes and sanitizing: The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam is the better choice due to its steam cleaning function, which effectively removes stubborn stains and kills bacteria.
- For pet owners concerned about odors: The Shark HydroVac excels with its odor-neutralizing technology, making it ideal for homes with pets.
- For ease of use and maneuverability: The Shark HydroVac is lighter and generally easier to maneuver, making it a better option for those who prioritize convenience.
- For multi-surface cleaning (including area rugs): Both are suitable, but consider the CrossWave HydroSteam for its steam refresh function on area rugs.
Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam Review
The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam is designed as a multi-surface cleaning powerhouse, combining vacuuming, washing, and steam cleaning into one device. A key feature is its HydroSteam Technology, which delivers steam to loosen tough messes and sanitize hard floors. This is particularly useful for households with children or pets where sticky spills and ground-in dirt are common.
The CrossWave HydroSteam aims to simplify floor cleaning by eliminating the need for multiple devices. It features a two-tank system to keep clean and dirty water separate, ensuring you’re always cleaning with fresh solution. The machine also has a self-cleaning cycle that helps maintain the brush roll and internal components. While it excels on hard floors, it can also be used on area rugs with a dedicated steam refresh setting.
The Shark HydroVac cordless hard floor cleaner integrates vacuuming, washing, and drying into a single, lightweight unit. Its standout feature is the odor-neutralizing technology, which infuses the cleaning solution to eliminate odors as you clean, making it a great choice for pet owners. The HydroVac’s cordless design offers enhanced maneuverability, allowing you to clean freely without being tethered to an outlet.
The Shark HydroVac is designed for ease of use, with intuitive controls and a self-cleaning function that simplifies maintenance. Its powerful suction and multi-surface brush roll effectively lift dirt, debris, and liquids from hard floors and area rugs. The two-tank system ensures clean water is always used, and the dirty water tank is easy to empty and rinse.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam | Shark HydroVac |
|---|---|---|
| Steam Cleaning | Yes, with HydroSteam Technology for sanitizing and tough stain removal | No |
| Odor Neutralization | No specific odor neutralization technology | Yes, infuses cleaning solution with odor neutralizers |
| Cordless | Corded | Cordless |
| Weight | Higher | Lighter |
| Multi-Surface | Hard floors and area rugs, with steam refresh for rugs | Hard floors and area rugs |
| Self-Cleaning | Yes, with a dedicated self-cleaning cycle | Yes, with a self-cleaning function |
| Maneuverability | Can be slightly more cumbersome due to the cord and weight | Generally easier to maneuver due to its cordless design and lighter weight |
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam | Shark HydroVac |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number | Varies | WD101 |
| Cord Type | Corded | Cordless |
| Weight | Around 11.5 lbs (varies by model) | Around 7.9 lbs |
| Tank Capacity | Clean Water Tank: 16 oz, Dirty Water Tank: 14 oz (varies by model) | Clean Water Tank: 16 oz, Dirty Water Tank: 12 oz |
| Runtime | N/A (Corded) | Up to 30 minutes |
| Charge Time | N/A (Corded) | 4 hours |
| Cleaning Path Width | 10.5 inches | 12 inches |
| Brush Roll Type | Multi-Surface Brush Roll (nylon and microfiber) | Multi-Surface Brush Roll (nylon and microfiber) |
| Steam Technology | Yes, HydroSteam Technology | No |
| Odor Neutralization | No specific odor neutralization technology | Yes, with Shark Odor Neutralizer Technology |
| Self-Cleaning | Yes, automatic brush roll cleaning | Yes, automatic brush roll cleaning and drying system |
| Display | Digital Controls | LED Display |
| Warranty | Limited 2-year warranty (varies by model) | Limited 2-year warranty |
| Accessories | Multi-Surface Brush Roll, Area Rug Brush Roll, cleaning solutions | HydroVac Multi-Surface Brushroll, 12oz. Shark HydroVac Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner with Odor Neutralizer, Docking Station |
Price Comparison
- Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam: Typically ranges from \$299 to \$399 depending on the model and retailer.
- Shark HydroVac: Generally priced between \$249 and \$349.
The Shark HydroVac tends to be slightly more affordable upfront. However, the Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam may offer better long-term value for those who need steam cleaning capabilities. Consider the cost of replacement brush rolls and cleaning solutions when evaluating the overall cost of ownership.
Design and Build Quality
The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam has a sturdy, albeit bulkier, design. It feels robust and well-built, capable of withstanding regular use. The corded design ensures continuous power but can limit maneuverability.
The Shark HydroVac stands out with its lightweight and cordless design. It’s easy to carry and maneuver around furniture. The build quality feels slightly less premium than the Bissell, but it’s still durable enough for everyday cleaning tasks. The cordless feature offers significant convenience.
Performance Face-Off
Cleaning Performance on Hard Floors
- Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam: The HydroSteam excels at removing tough, stuck-on messes due to its steam function. It effectively cleans and sanitizes hard floors, leaving them streak-free.
- Shark HydroVac: The HydroVac provides excellent suction and cleaning power for everyday dirt and spills. While it doesn’t have steam, its powerful brush roll and cleaning solution effectively lift grime and debris.
Cleaning Performance on Area Rugs
- Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam: The steam refresh setting allows the Bissell to lightly clean and refresh area rugs without over-wetting them.
- Shark HydroVac: The HydroVac also performs well on area rugs, removing surface dirt and debris. However, it lacks the steam function for deeper cleaning.
Odor Removal
- Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam: While it cleans well, it doesn’t have specific odor-neutralizing technology.
- Shark HydroVac: The HydroVac’s odor-neutralizing solution effectively eliminates odors, making it ideal for pet owners or households with strong odors.
Suction Power
- Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam: Provides adequate suction for picking up dirt and debris, but its primary focus is on washing and steam cleaning.
- Shark HydroVac: Offers strong suction power, effectively lifting dirt, debris, and liquids from floors and rugs.
Special Features Comparison
- Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam:
- HydroSteam Technology: Uses steam to loosen and remove tough messes and sanitize floors.
- Steam Refresh: Refreshes area rugs with steam.
- Shark HydroVac:
- Odor Neutralizer Technology: Eliminates odors as it cleans.
- Cordless Design: Offers greater freedom and maneuverability.
Usability and User Experience
The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam features intuitive controls, but its corded design and heavier weight can make it slightly less convenient to use, especially in large areas.
The Shark HydroVac shines in usability due to its lightweight, cordless design. It’s easy to maneuver and carry around the house. The self-cleaning function also simplifies maintenance.
Maintenance and Longevity
- Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam: Requires regular cleaning of the brush roll and dirty water tank. The steam function can help prevent buildup.
- Shark HydroVac: Also requires regular cleaning of the brush roll and dirty water tank. The self-cleaning function helps maintain the brush roll.
Both machines have a limited 2-year warranty, which covers manufacturing defects. Expected lifespan will depend on usage and maintenance.
Who Should Buy the Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam?
- Those who need to sanitize their hard floors regularly.
- Users who frequently deal with tough, stuck-on messes.
- Individuals who want to refresh area rugs with steam.
Who Should Buy the Shark HydroVac?
- Pet owners concerned about odors.
- Those who prioritize ease of use and maneuverability.
- Users who prefer a cordless cleaning experience.
Final Recommendation
Both the Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam and the Shark HydroVac are excellent hard floor cleaners, but they cater to different needs. The Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam is the better choice for those who need steam cleaning capabilities to sanitize floors and tackle tough messes. The Shark HydroVac is ideal for pet owners and anyone who values ease of use and maneuverability, thanks to its cordless design and odor-neutralizing technology.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific cleaning needs and preferences. Consider the types of messes you typically deal with, the size of your cleaning area, and whether you prioritize steam cleaning or cordless convenience.
