Author: Richard Harrison
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Bissell CrossWave
Shark VacMop
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SEE PRICE
Bissell CrossWave
4.5 out of 5
Main characteristics:
- Dimensions 10.5 x 12 x 46 inches
- Weight 11.5 lbs
- Cleaning Modes Vacuum and wash
- Brush System Rotating
- Power Source 25 ft. Cord
Shark VacMop
4.5 out of 5
Main characteristics:
- Dimensions 5.37 x 9.5 x 47.87 inches
- Weight 4.79 lbs
- Cleaning Modes Vacuum and wash
- Brush System Mopping pad
- Power Source Cordless
This Bissell CrossWave vs. Shark VacMop comparison review seeks to find out which of the two vacuum mops is the best bang for the buck. Is Bissell CrossWave better than Shark VacMop? Let’s find out.
Bissell CrossWave and Shark VacMop are two of the most popular stick vacmops. They are all 2-in-1 cleaners that can vacuum and mop hard floors. But in detail, there are many differences.
Important
Bissell CrossWave is a corded cleaner that comes with a brushroll. It can clean both hardwood floors and carpets. On the other hand, Shark VacMop is a cordless cleaner and comes with a mopping pad, unlike the CrossWave, which has a brushroll. The VacMop is suitable for hard floors only.
For more regarding the two cleaners, read along.
Bissell CrossWave
The Bissell CrossWave is a line of wet and dry vacuum cleaners that offer excellent cleaning and pack lots of convenience features. There are several models in the CrossWave series, the popular ones being the Bissell 1785A, Bissell Pet Pro 2306A, and the Cordless Max 2554A. In this Bissell vs. Shark comparison review, we have analyzed the Bissell CrossWave® 1785A All-in-One Multi-Surface Wet Dry Vac.
Shark VacMop
Shark VacMop is also a series of wet and dry vacuum cleaners from Shark. Just like with the Bissell CrossWave, the Shark VacMop series has several variants, including the Shark VacMop VM190, VacMop VM252, and VacMop VM200P12, among others. For this review, we pitted the Bissell CrossWave 1785A against the Shark VacMop VM200P12.
Which one to choose Bissell CrossWave or Shark VacMop?
3 reasons to choose Bissell CrossWave
- Two-speed motor: Such motor in Bissell CrossWave ensures light vacuuming with normal speed and high-speed vacuuming with 3000 rpm dual-action brush roll rotation for stubborn stains.
- Dual water tank: Bissell Crosswave has a 0.83 L clean water tank and a 0.42 L dirty water tank to provide only fresh water for cleaning.
- 2 years warranty: Extended warranty decreases additional expenses if something goes wrong with Bissell CrossWave.
3 reasons to choose Shark VacMop
- Extremely light: Minimalistic design with a light weight of 4.79 lbs gives extra portability with an easy cleaning experience reaching all corners and maintenance.
- Cordless operation: Shark VacMop works from a rechargeable Li-ion battery for 13 minutes and a recharge time of 3 hours.
- All-in-one mopping pads: Disposable pads are quickly changed without a mess as they lock all debris inside.
Bissell CrossWave vs. Shark VacMop Face-to-Face Comparison Review
Now, onto the main agenda of the day. How does Bissell CrossWave compare to Shark VacMop? To help you make the best purchase decision, we have put the two models in a face-off based on the essential aspects considered when choosing a stick vacmop. So, without further ado, let's get into it.
1. Brand Comparison 
Today, there are so many brands in the floor cleaning industry. Most are trusted brands known for high quality, reliable and durable cleaners, while others are to be avoided at all costs. In this first round of this Bissell CrossWave vs. Shark VacMop comparison review. Find out which of the two brands is the best.
Bissell
Bissell is among the biggest vacuum brands. Established over 140 years ago, the company is known for its range of hard floor cleaners, carpet cleaners, pet vacuums, and other cleaning appliances.
Its range of wet and dry vacuums are among the most sought-after models on the market as they are versatile, reliable, and durable. We have checked consumer review websites, and we are glad Bissell has positive reviews.
Shark
Shark, too, is a trusted brand owned and operated by SharkNinja Operating LLC. Established in 1993, the brand is known for high-quality appliances, including vacuum cleaners, steam irons, steam mops, air purifiers, and hair dryers.
We also scoured customer reviews on consumer review websites and online retailers. We are glad to report that Shark is also a worthy brand.
In terms of brand trust, it's hard to call a winner as Bissell and Shark are both trusted brands that manufacture high-quality, reliable, and durable stick vacuum mops. But then, having been in business for long, Bissell has passed the test of time, so it's the winner in this round.
2. What's in the Box? In this second round of this comparison review, let's find out what each of the two vacuum mops comes with. It's important to know what parts and accessories that the model you choose will come with. So, what should you expect in the Bissell CrossWave and Shark VacMop packages?
6 accessories
The Bissell CrossWave comes with:
- Bissell CrossWave 1785A unit
- 2 multisurface brushrolls
- 8 oz. multisurface formula
- Extra filter
- Rinse & clean out storage tray
- Documentation
6 accessories
The Shark VacMop comes with:
- Shark VacMop unit
- Battery
- Charger
- 12 disposable pads
- 12 oz. cleaning solution
- Documentation
It's hard to call a winner here as each of the two models is well equipped. However, we feel that Bissell has the upper hand as it comes with an extra filter and a rinse & clean out storage tray. But still, you can't ignore the fact that the VacMop comes with a 12 oz. formula, which is more than the 8 oz. cleaning solution that Bissell offers.
3. Design and Aesthetics The design of a cleaner is crucial as it determines where it can reach and, importantly, portability. In this segment, we will find out how the CrossWave compares to VacMop in terms of dimensions and weight. We will also be assessing their finish so you can differentiate them from their aesthetics.
Wet-Dry Vacuum
The CrossWave 1785A measures 10.5 x 12 x 46 inches and weighs 11.5lbs. It features a clever carry handle for easy portability.
When it comes to the finish, this model is white on titanium with ChaCha lime accents.
Vacuum Mop
Shark VacMop, on the other hand, maintains the same small footprint as the CrossWave. It measures 5.37 x 9.5 x 47.87 inches and weighs just 4.79lbs.
Regarding its aesthetics, you will notice the minimalistic design finished in charcoal gray with lime green accents.
As far as aesthetics are concerned, the Shark VacMop can't match the CrossWave. Bissell has great taste when it comes to style. However, those looking for a lightweight and minimalistic cleaner will find the VacMop the best bang for the buck.
4. Cleaning Orientation The most crucial aspect to consider when buying a cleaner is the cleaning orientation. You need to ensure that the vacmop you are purchasing fits the bill. So which of the two cleaners is the best choice in this round?
2-in-1
The Bissell CrossWave 1785A is a versatile cleaner. As mentioned earlier, it is a 2-in-1 cleaner with a sweep and vacuum function. Besides picking up dirt, the CrossWave is also a dry and wet cleaner, so you don’t have to spend more on a mop.
Regarding the surfaces it can clean, the CrossWave is suitable for cleaning all types of bare floors, including hardwood, tile, vinyl, concrete, etc. Besides vacuuming bare floors, a standout feature of the Cross wave is carpet vacuuming. You can rely on it to vacuum carpets and area rugs.
2-in-1
The Shark VacMop is also a great cleaner. It is also a 2-in-1 model that can sweep and vacuum all kinds of dirt. Besides vacuuming, the VacMop can also mop floors courtesy of the dry/wet mopping function.
When it comes to its specialization, it is best suited for hard floors only. Whether you have tiled floors, hardwood, vinyl, ceramic, marble, or any other bare floors, the Shark VacMop is ready for the job.
As far as cleaning orientation is concerned, the Bissell CrossWave is the ultimate winner. While the two models can vacuum and mop, the CrossWave has the edge as it's a multisurface cleaner that can handle bare floors and carpets as well. The VacMop can handle only bare floors.
5. Vacuuming Performance As mentioned in the introduction of this Bissell vs. Shark comparison review, the CrossWave MultiFloor is a 2-in-1 cleaner. In this round, we are going to analyze their vacuuming performance. Here, we will assess two important features: the motor and the cleaning head. We will also share our exclusive vacuuming test results on hardwood floors. Without mincing any more words, let's get into it.
Two-speed motor
The Bissell CrossWave is a robust vacuum cleaner that packs a powerful two-speed motor. The normal speed is for light vacuuming, while the high speed is for vacuuming the stubborn dirt on carpets. We really liked how it sucked up debris, from fine debris to large debris.
One of the major differences between the CrossWave and Shark VacMop is the cleaning head. Under the hood, the CrossWave packs a dual-action brush roll rotating at 3,000 RPM. It is very effective in agitating and lifting dirt on all surfaces, from the bare floors to carpets and rugs.
The CrossWave doesn’t just vacuum and mop; it also comes with filters that capture small elements and allergens. These filters are washable.
Powerful motor
On the other hand, the Shark VacMop has a powerful motor, but it doesn’t match that used in the Bissell CrossWave. All the same, the cleaner has sufficient suction power to pick up all kinds of debris, from fine debris to large and heavy dirt.
While the CrossWave comes with a rotating brush, the VacMop comes with a mopping pad, there is no brush roll. This makes the VacMop less effective in agitating dirt.
Another shortcoming of this cleaner is the lack of a filtration system, so if you have allergies, you will need to think of an air purifier. The vacuumed dirt here is locked inside the compartment that houses the disposable pad.
As far as vacuuming is concerned, the Bissell CrossWave is the best choice as it has higher suction power and the debris chamber is larger than the Shark VacMop's. Besides, the roller brush of the CrossWave agitates dirt in a better fashion than the Shark vacMop. What's more? CrossWave has a reliable filtration system, and importantly, it can vacuum carpets.
6. Mopping Performance Besides vacuuming, these two stick vacuums will also mop floors leaving them sparkling clean. But obviously, the mopping performance of the two cleaners varies. In this section, we will assess the key components that determine the mopping performance. So, which model offers the best moping performance? Read along.
Dual water tank
The Bissell CrossWave offers both dry and wet mopping. It features a dual water tank design. There’s a 0.83L clean water tank and a 0.42L dirty water tank. Once the dirty water tank is full, the cleaner will automatically shut down and produce a high-pitched sound to notify you that it’s time to empty the dirty water tank.
One great thing is the customizability of the 1785A. First, there is an on-demand spray with two water levels and another trigger for adding the cleaning solution. Instead of mopping pads, Bissell designed the CrossWave with a rotating brush that does a great job scrubbing stuck-on stains and grime. This leaves floors sparkling clean.
The CrossWave can work with cleaning solutions and comes with an 8 oz. Bissell Multi-Surface Cleaning Solution.
One tank
The Shark VacMop also has a mopping function, both dry and wet. One of the differences between the CrossWave vs. VacMop is the fact that the VacMop comes with just one tank for clean water. It has a 0.35L capacity, so it can clean a smaller area compared to the CrossWave.
When it comes to its cleaning head, Shark opted for all-in-one mopping pads. They perform exceptionally on floors with minimal messes, but when it comes to stains and grime, you will have to do several passes to get the stains out. Besides wiping the floors, this pad is responsible for sucking up the dirty water as there’s no dirty water tank which is not a clever idea, especially if you are dealing with some serious messes.
This vacmop also uses a cleaning solution, and luckily, it comes with 12 disposable mopping pads and a 12 oz. Multisurface Cleaning Formula.
When it comes to mopping performance, the Bissell CrossWave is a beast. It comes with two water tanks meaning there won't be cloudy spots and films when dealing with heavy messes as all the dirty water is sent into the dirty water tank. The rolling brush also agitates dirt and scrubs stains in a better fashion than the VacMop's mopping pads. Lastly, the CrossWave comes with a larger clean water tank.
7. Usability Unlike robot vacuums that clean floors autonomously, vacmops require human intervention. That said, it's important to assess the usability of the model you are about to purchase. Here, there are several aspects to consider, including the controls of the cleaner, the maneuverability, and more. So, which model has the best usability? Is it the Bissell CrossWave or Shark VacMop?
8/10
The Bissell CrossWave is a user-friendly vacmop that anyone can operate, including senior citizens and homeowners with back problems. To start, the SmartClean Fingertip Controls are strategically located in the ergonomic handle. You can switch between the two cleaning modes, hard floors, and carpets. There’s also the on-demand spray trigger used to spray the cleaning solution.
When it comes to maneuverability, the Bissell CrossWave has been designed to glide on bare floors and rugs effortlessly.
What’s more? It comes with Swivel Technology that makes turning at those tight corners and creeping under low profile furniture a buzz. One interesting feature is the hanging loop that makes storage easy.
7/10
Shark VacMop is also a user-friendly cleaner that anyone can use. It also comes with the controls on the handle. There is a suction trigger and a spray mopping trigger.
Regarding maneuverability, the Shark VacMop also glides smoothly on bare floors, but the maneuverability is not up to the mark. Even though it is lighter, and has swivel technology, turning at corners is a hassle.
For the record, the VacMop VM200 doesn’t come with headlights, as most review sites mention. The model with headlights is the Shark VacMop VM252.
The Bissell CrossWave and Shark VacMop are two excellent cleaners in terms of usability. The control buttons are strategically placed, and so are the on-demand spray triggers. The difference comes in maneuverability. Courtesy of Swivel Technology, the CrossWave turns more effortlessly, so it's the winner when it comes to usability.
8. Power Source As you may be aware, stick vacuums are either corded or cordless. Cordless stick vacuums are a great deal if you want mobility. There is no need to worry about the location of the mains and the room you are cleaning. But then, they have a short runtime, so your cleaning time is limited. On the other hand, corded cleaners offer unlimited cleaning time, but they can limit your reach.
Corded
The Bissell CrossWave 1785A is a corded vacmop. It comes with a 25ft power cord which is long enough to reach all your rooms.
Attention
Unfortunately, there is no automatic rewind cord, a feature that could come in handy to prevent tangles.
Cordless
On the other hand, the Shark VacMop is a cordless cleaner that relies on an inbuilt battery. It is equipped with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that offers an average of 13 minutes runtime. The recharge time is around 3 hours.
When the cleaner requires charge, it will blink solid red. When you plug it into power, it should blink green, and after charging fully, the indicator light will be solid green.
In this round, it's hard to call a winner as both power options have advantages and disadvantages. While the cordless model offers users flexibility and better reach, the runtime is short. On the other hand, the corded model can limit you. But sincerely speaking, the 25ft cord is enough, considering most American households have power sockets in all rooms. That said, Bissell CrossWave Corded cleaner is the winner in this round.
9. Maintenance Just like all cleaners, the Bissell CrossWave and Shark VacMop require maintenance. This section compares the two models to find out which one requires the least maintenance.
After 6-8 months
The CrossWave’s main brushroll needs to be checked frequently. Rinse it at least twice monthly and get a replacement after 6-8 months, depending on usage. You should also clean the filters at least twice a month and replace them after 4-6 months.
Another crucial maintenance requirement is ensuring the clean water tank is full and the dirty water tank is emptied. You should also add the required cleaning solution, preferably one manufactured by Bissell.
Lastly, ensure the dust collection compartment is emptied after each cleaning session.
After each cleaning session
As you may be aware, the Shark VacMop doesn’t have a brushroll. Instead, it uses disposable pads that should be disposed of after each cleaning session.
One clever feature Shark included is a feature that tosses the pad in one click so you won’t have to touch dirt when removing it. The mopping pad is replaced after each cleaning session making this cleaner quite expensive to maintain.
Another maintenance requirement is with regards to power management. As you may be aware, this cleaner is cordless. It relies on a rechargeable battery, so you will have to charge it often. Finally, the clean water tank should be filled, and the Shark cleaning solution added.
Regarding maintenance, it's hard to call a winner as both models are maintenance intensive. However, we feel the CrossWave is the better option because the brushroll needs replacements after months, while the mopping pads can be used just once. Also, the Shark VacMop requires frequent charging and, of course, a battery replacement later on, but the Bissell CrossWave doesn't require such maintenance.
10. Warranty and Aftersales In this last round of this Bissell CrossWave vs. Shark VacMop comparison review, find out the warranty these two wet, and dry vacs come with. We have also assessed the level of support and, importantly, the availability of replacement parts and other supplies.
2-year
The Bissell CrossWave comes with a 2-year warranty that covers you if the cleaner fails within the first two years after purchase. Bissell is a renowned brand with a good reputation. It honors the warranty as long as the buyer abides by all the warranty’s terms and conditions.
When it comes to support, there are plenty of resources, including videos, to help you use your cleaner. Last on replacement parts, Bissell has plenty of suppliers at affordable prices.
1-year
The Shark VM200P12 VACMOP, on the other hand, comes with a 1-year warranty that covers your cleaner for one year in the event it develops problems.
Shark also has a good reputation when it comes to honoring warranties.
Regarding support, there are plenty of resources and manuals to help you out. Last, on replacement parts, they are also available at affordable prices.
Here, Bissell is the winner as it comes with a longer warranty. Otherwise, on support and availability of replacement parts, both brands are good.
Cleaning Tests
Vacuuming Test Results
As usual, we test all the cleaners we review; the CrossWave and VacMop were no exceptions. We created messes using the daily household dirt to find out their vacuuming performance. Below is an illustration of the results we got.
9/10
8/10
Vacuuming Test Results
- Raw popcorns
- 99%
- 98%
- Flour
- 96%
- 94%
- Rice
- 97%
- 95%
- Cheerios
- 99%
- 99%
- Sugar
- 98%
- 97%
- Kitty litter
- 97%
- 95%
- Pet hair
- 97%
- 95%
- Sand pebbles
- 96%
- 95%
Mopping Test Results
Here again, we put the two into a contest to find out which one of them offers the best mopping performance. Again, we used the daily messes, and here are the results.
9/10
8/10
Mopping Test Results
- Fruit Jam Stains
- 95%
- 91%
- Water
- 99%
- 99%
- Soda
- 99%
- 99%
- Porridge Stains
- 94%
- 90%
- Margarine Smears
- 95%
- 92%
- Cooking Oil
- 96%
- 93%
- Urine Stains
- 98%
- 98%
- Wet Paw Marks
- 99%
- 99%
- Honey Smears
- 95%
- 92%
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a Bissell CrossWave be used on carpet?
Yes. One of the outstanding features of the Bissell CrossWave 1785A is the carpet vacuuming function. For the record, the Shark VacMop cannot be used on carpets.
2. Can the Bissell CrossWave be used as just a vacuum?
Yes. To use the Bissell CrossWave as a vacuum only, set the cleaning mode to Area Rugs. The cleaner will vacuum only; no water will be dispensed.
3. Is Shark better than Bissell?
As witnessed above, Bissell is better than Shark as it offers better vacuuming and mopping and can clean both bare floors and carpets. It also comes with several extras, including two water tanks and a brushroll.
4. Can Shark VACMOP be used on carpet?
No. The Shark VacMop is designed for bare floors only. It is not suitable for carpets.
5. What can I use in my Shark VACMOP?
It’s recommended to use the Shark Multi-Surface Formula for the best cleaning performance.
Wrapping Up
There you have it, folks, a Bissell CrossWave vs. Shark VacMop comparison review. So, what’s the best bang for the buck? Well, it’s hard to call a winner as they are both 2-in-1 stick vacuums that can easily pick up dirt and debris from floors, and more so, they can mop.
The Bissell CrossWave, however, has the edge for several reasons. It will vacuum bare floors and carpets, while the VacMop can only handle bare floors. The CrossWave also comes with a brushroll that is more versatile than mopping pads and has wider coverage than VacMop, so you can cover a larger area within a shorter time. Another advantage of the CrossWave is the dual tank design that separates clean water from dirty water. The clean water tank is also larger than what you get with the Shark VacMop.
But still, the Shark VacMop is worth the money if you deal with slight messes and don’t have carpets and rugs. It’s also cheaper, so it fits the bill if you are on a budget. The Shark VacMop is also lighter and more ergonomic, so it’s best for homes with more than one level and senior citizens. One last advantage of the Shark VacMop is the cordless design meaning it can be used anywhere, even where the mains socket is far.
So, who’s the ultimate winner? Having compared all the pros and cons of the two stick vacuums, the Bissell CrossWave carries the day. It offers excellent vacuuming and mopping and is a corded cleaner, so there are no limits when it comes to cleaning time. While the VacMop can run for just 13 minutes, you can use the CrossWave for as long as you like!
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