The Shark HydroVac and Bissell CrossWave are both designed to simplify your cleaning routine by combining vacuuming and mopping into a single step. These machines are particularly appealing for households with hard floors and those looking to tackle everyday messes quickly. Both aim to reduce cleaning time by picking up wet and dry debris simultaneously, making them practical solutions for busy individuals and families.
The Bissell CrossWave has been a popular choice in this category for years, while the Shark HydroVac is a newer contender looking to make a splash with innovative features and competitive pricing. This review dives deep into the specifics of each machine, comparing their design, performance, features, and overall value to help you determine which one best suits your needs.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Cleaning Performance: Both excel at vacuuming and mopping hard floors simultaneously. The Shark HydroVac may have a slight edge on dried-on stains, while the Bissell CrossWave handles larger wet messes without streaking as much.
- Features: The Shark HydroVac boasts an automatic water dispensing system and a superior self-cleaning function. The Bissell CrossWave offers more control over water dispensing with its trigger mechanism.
- Ease of Use: The Shark HydroVac is generally lighter and easier to maneuver. Its self-cleaning function is also more automated, requiring less user intervention.
- Price: The Shark HydroVac is typically more affordable than the Bissell CrossWave, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
- Power: The Bissell CrossWave has almost double the power of the Shark HydroVac, confirmed by suction tests, though this comes at the cost of higher noise levels.
Verdict: Both are great options, but the Shark HydroVac edges out the Bissell CrossWave with its better self-cleaning, ease of use, and more affordable price. However, the Bissell CrossWave’s superior power and control over water dispensing may appeal to some users.
Specifications
| Feature | Shark HydroVac XL | Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wet/Dry Vacuum and Mop | Wet/Dry Vacuum and Mop |
| Corded/Cordless | Corded or Cordless | Corded or Cordless |
| Weight | 8.46 – 10.27 lbs | 11.0 – 11.5 lbs |
| Water Tank Capacity | 500 ml | 828 ml |
| Dirty Tank Capacity | 360 – 500 ml | 428 – 550 ml |
| Cord Length | 25 ft | 25 ft |
| Cleaning Path Width | 9.3 inches | 9.5 – 12 inches |
| Power | 5.5 W/ 1200W (depending on model) | 700 – 560 W (depending on model) |
| Self-Cleaning | Yes, Automatic | Yes, Manual |
| Brushroll | Antimicrobial | Multi-Surface Pet Brush Roll |
| LED Lights | Yes | Yes |
| HEPA Filter | No | Yes (select models) |
Price and Availability
- Shark HydroVac: Prices vary depending on the model (corded or cordless), but generally range from \$199 – \$354. Available at major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Costco, and directly from the SharkClean website.
- Bissell CrossWave: Prices also vary, typically ranging from \$149 – \$479 depending on the model (e.g., CrossWave Pet Pro, CrossWave Cordless Max, CrossWave HydroSteam). Widely available at retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, and the Bissell website.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark HydroVac features a modern design with a focus on ease of use. It’s lightweight (8.46 – 10.27 lbs), making it easy to maneuver around furniture and carry up stairs. The LED headlights are a thoughtful addition, illuminating dirt and grime on the floor. The antimicrobial brush roll is designed to prevent odors and bacterial growth, a significant advantage for pet owners.
The Bissell CrossWave has a more robust build, weighing in at 11.0 – 11.5 lbs. While slightly heavier, it feels sturdy and well-constructed. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the swivel head allows for easy navigation. Some models, like the Pet Pro, include specialized brush rolls designed to minimize pet hair wrap.
Both machines have separate clean and dirty water tanks, ensuring you’re always cleaning with fresh solution. However, the Shark HydroVac’s dirty water tank includes a debris filter, separating large debris from the water for easier disposal.
Performance and Features
Vacuuming and Mopping
Both the Shark HydroVac and Bissell CrossWave excel at simultaneously vacuuming and mopping hard floors. They efficiently pick up dirt, debris, and spills, leaving floors clean and streak-free.
- The Shark HydroVac automatically dispenses water while cleaning, ensuring continuous mopping action. It performed exceptionally well in tests involving dried-on stains, often requiring only one or two passes to clean the area completely.
- The Bissell CrossWave uses a trigger to control water dispensing, allowing for more targeted cleaning. This is particularly useful for tackling tough messes where extra moisture is needed. However, some users may find it requires more effort to constantly hold the trigger.
Self-Cleaning
- The Shark HydroVac has a superior self-cleaning function. Simply empty the dirty water tank, ensure the clean water tank is half full, place the machine on its tray, and press the power button. The machine automatically cleans the brush roll and internal components.
- The Bissell CrossWave requires more manual effort. After emptying the dirty water tank, you need to fill the storage tray with water, run the machine for 10-15 seconds, and manually rinse the brush roll, filter, and tank. This can be a bit cumbersome and time-consuming.
Maneuverability
The Shark HydroVac is generally more agile due to its lighter weight and well-designed swivel head. It requires less wrist movement and can easily navigate around obstacles. The Bissell CrossWave, while sturdy, can feel a bit bulkier, especially in tight spaces.
Additional Features
- Shark HydroVac: Features an auto mode for adjusting cleaning power based on floor type, a debris filter in the dirty water tank, and LED lights.
- Bissell CrossWave: Offers a trigger mechanism for water dispensing and specialized brush rolls for different surfaces (e.g., pet hair). Some models include a HEPA filter for allergen removal.
Battery Life (if applicable)
- Shark HydroVac Cordless Models: Offer up to 30 minutes of runtime on a full charge. The battery charge time is approximately 4 hours.
- Bissell CrossWave Cordless Models: Also provide around 30 minutes of cordless cleaning. Recharge time is similar, around 4 hours.
Software and User Experience (if applicable)
Neither the Shark HydroVac nor the Bissell CrossWave relies heavily on software. The user experience is straightforward, with simple controls and intuitive operation. The Shark HydroVac features an LED display that shows battery life and cleaning mode, while the Bissell CrossWave typically has basic button controls.
Comparison to Competitors
- Tineco Floor One S3: Similar to the Shark and Bissell, the Tineco offers cordless convenience and smart features like iLoop™ smart sensor technology that automatically adjusts water flow and suction. However, it tends to be pricier.
- Dyson V15s Submarine: Dyson’s entry into the floor washing market is a premium option with strong vacuuming capabilities. The Submarine attachment allows for wet cleaning, but it’s primarily a vacuum with a mopping feature, not a dedicated wet/dry cleaner like the Shark and Bissell.
Compared to these competitors, the Shark HydroVac stands out for its balance of performance, features, and affordability. The Bissell CrossWave, while powerful, may not offer enough added value to justify its higher price for some users.
Pros and Cons
Shark HydroVac:
- Pros:
- Simultaneous vacuuming and mopping
- Effective on wet and dry messes
- Superior self-cleaning cycle
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- More affordable
- Cons:
- Less powerful than Bissell CrossWave
- Automatic water dispensing may not suit all users
- Can only use Shark brand cleaning solutions
Bissell CrossWave:
- Pros:
- Simultaneous vacuuming and mopping
- Powerful suction
- Trigger for controlled water dispensing
- Specialized brush rolls for pet hair
- Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier
- Manual self-cleaning is less convenient
- Louder operation
- More expensive
Value for Money
The Shark HydroVac offers excellent value for money. Its combination of effective cleaning, user-friendly features, and a competitive price point makes it a compelling choice for those seeking an efficient and affordable wet/dry cleaning solution.
The Bissell CrossWave, while a solid performer, may be a better fit for users who prioritize power and control over water dispensing, and are willing to invest more.
Verdict
The Shark HydroVac is the winner in this comparison. Its superior self-cleaning, ease of use, and lower price make it a more practical choice for most households. While the Bissell CrossWave has its strengths, the Shark HydroVac provides a better balance of performance, features, and value.
Final Score: Shark HydroVac – 8.5/10, Bissell CrossWave – 8/10
