BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam Deluxe Review: The Multi-Tasking Cleaner for Pet Owners

If you've got pets or kids, cleaning up the chaotic messes they leave behind can feel like a never-ending battle. That's where the BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam Deluxe comes in handy. This machine promises to tackle tough pet stains and everyday spills across various surfaces, thanks to its HydroSteam Technology. I was intrigued by its claim of cleaning sticky messes 20% better than its counterparts.

I spent two weeks putting this vacuum through its paces, dealing with everything from muddy paw prints to spilled cereal. What initially caught my attention was its multi-surface versatility, claiming to handle wet and dry messes on tiles, wood, and even refreshing area rugs. But, of course, the real test was how it handled in a real-world setting with my two dogs running amok.

In those two weeks, I found myself appreciating some of its features while finding others to be just okay. If you're looking for honest feedback from someone who's not afraid to point out the good and the not-so-good, you're in the right place. Let's dive into what makes or breaks this vacuum.

I'll walk you through its design, effectiveness, and overall value, giving you a clear picture of whether this is the right addition to your cleaning arsenal.

At its price point, the BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam Deluxe offers a fair bit of functionality. If you're someone who continuously battles pet messes and spills, you'll likely find its features justify the cost. The inclusion of multiple trial-sized formulas and extra brush rolls is a nice touch, giving you a good start right out of the box.

Compared to some of its competitors, this vacuum stands out for its ability to vacuum, wash, and steam all at once. It's like having three appliances in one, which could save you money and space if those are priorities for you. The dual-tank system and self-cleaning feature enhance its value by simplifying maintenance and ensuring you're always using fresh water.

On the downside, if you're not primarily dealing with pet-related messes or don't have multiple surfaces to clean, you might not take full advantage of its capabilities. There are simpler and cheaper vacuums out there that could do the job just as well if you have more straightforward cleaning needs.

In short, it's a good fit for pet owners or those looking for a multi-purpose cleaner, but it might be overkill for others. Weighing your specific cleaning challenges against the price will help determine if it's a solid investment for you.

The first thing you'll notice about the BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam Deluxe is its size. Weighing in at 12.5 pounds, it's not exactly light, but it's manageable. The upright form factor makes it easy to store, though if your storage space is tight, it might take some clever maneuvering to fit it in comfortably. For its size, it's pretty solid, it feels durable enough for regular use, which is a plus if you're dealing with daily messes.

The machine comes in a green color, which isn't exactly a standout feature but does help it avoid looking dirty quickly. The dual-tank system is one of the more practical design elements. It keeps clean and dirty water separate, which is great because you don't end up spreading dirty water all over your floors. It's a feature that I found actually makes a difference in the cleaning results.

Another design highlight is the tangle-free brush roll. As someone who constantly battles pet hair, this is a godsend. I didn't have to spend time untangling hair from the brush roll, which saved me a fair amount of hassle. On the downside, the machine isn't cordless, which limits its portability. You'll need to be near an outlet, making it less convenient for quick clean-ups or moving between rooms.

Overall, its design is practical with some thoughtful features, but the bulk and need for an outlet are worth considering.

When it comes to cleaning, the BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam Deluxe performs well for the most part. The HydroSteam Technology is effective at breaking down stubborn stains like dried mud and sticky spills, which is a big plus if these are common in your home. I noticed it cleans these types of messes faster compared to my old steam-only cleaner.

The multi-surface capability is another strong point. It transitions well from tile to laminate to area rugs, and the steam function adds an extra layer of cleaning for rugs, though it doesn't replace a deep clean. For kitchen spills and pet messes, it’s pretty reliable. However, while it does a decent job, the steam function isn't as powerful as a dedicated steam cleaner. It's more of an add-on rather than a primary feature.

I also liked the self-cleaning feature. After a run, all it takes is a push of a button to clean the brush roll, which is pretty convenient. However, it's not a perfect system; sometimes, you might need to give it a manual clean if there's a particularly stubborn tangle or mess.

In essence, while it’s effective for routine cleaning, don't expect it to replace heavy-duty equipment for deep cleans. It’s good for everyday use but has its limitations.