5 Best Bissell Steam Mops Worth Buying in 2026
If you’re trying to figure out which Bissell steam mop to get out of the dozens of models on the market, this article will help you decide faster. I tested all of these in May 2026 on a mix of tile and laminate floors in my own home, and I’ll share honestly what worked well and what didn’t quite meet expectations.
Best Overall: BISSELL Steam Mop 1940A Deluxe
This is the Bissell steam mop I’d buy first if I were starting over. Great cleaning performance, reasonable price, and it works on a wide variety of surfaces without worrying about damaging your floors. It doesn’t have a ton of complicated features, but it has everything you need to get the job done around the house.
- SANITIZE WITH STEAM, NOT CHEMICALS. KILLS 99.9% OF GERMS, BACTERIA, & VIRUSES WHEN USED AS DIRECTED. Peace of mind for a cleaner home.
- BUILT-IN SCRUBBER FOR TOUGH GRIME. Flip down the Easy Scrubber to break up dried-on messes and grout buildup– no extra pressure required.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 3 steam settings for flexibility across different floor types | Smaller water tank compared to the 1806 |
| Flip-Down Scrubber is super handy for stubborn stuck-on messes | No handheld mode |
| 23-foot cord gives you plenty of reach across larger rooms | No LED headlights |
| Fragrance disc leaves your home smelling fresh after mopping | |
| Mid-range price — best value in the lineup | |
| Ready to use in just 30 seconds |
Testing Results
I tested it on the tile floor in my kitchen, an area that tends to collect grease splatter after a few days without mopping. Using the scrubby pad on the high steam setting, the buildup came right off in one or two passes. Then I switched to the laminate floor in the living room, dropped down to the low steam setting to avoid warping the planks, and it left zero water streaks or marks.
The Flip-Down Scrubber is the feature I used most during testing. There were some sticky candy spots in the corner of a room that regular sweeping couldn’t touch — I just flipped the scrubber down, pushed it over the spot, and it was done. Simple but effective.
Detailed Review
The BISSELL 1940A strikes the best overall balance of everything on this list. With 1,500 watts of power, it produces enough steam to kill 99.9% of germs and viruses on sealed hard floors without needing any added chemicals. Three steam settings through the SmartSet Digital Steam Control let you adjust on the fly: low for sensitive laminate and hardwood, high for tile or tough stains.
What I like about this mop is that it doesn’t try to do too many things at once. It does its job as a floor steam mop very consistently. The detachable water tank makes it easy to refill without hauling the whole unit to the sink. Both included pads (soft and scrubby) are machine washable, so the long-term cost of ownership stays low.
The 23-foot cord was a big plus when I mopped continuously from the kitchen into the living room without needing to change outlets. The swivel steering head makes it easy to maneuver around table and chair legs. If you’re looking for the best Bissell steam mop for everyday floor cleaning and don’t want to spend a lot, this is my top recommendation.
If you’re weighing tile against other hard floor types, check out our guide to choosing the right steam mop for your floor surface to make sure the model you pick is compatible with your floors.
Buy now: BISSELL Steam Mop 1940A Deluxe
Premium Choice: Bissell SpinWave SmartSteam
The SpinWave SmartSteam is the pick for anyone who wants to upgrade their experience a notch. Two pads spinning at up to 230 RPM combined with steam power deliver noticeably better scrubbing than a standard steam mop. It’s especially well-suited for households with pets or floors that tend to collect sticky messes.
- “SUPERIOR SANITIZATION. Kills 99.9% of germs*, bacteria, and viruses* using only steam—chemical-free and safe when used as directed.
- FAST, POWERFUL SCRUBBING. Dual rotating pads spin up to 230 RPM—50 RPM faster than the leading spinning steam mop —delivering superior scrubbing power to outclean traditional steam mops and tackle stubborn messes with ease.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Dual 230 RPM spinning pads for strong scrubbing without extra arm effort | Highest price in the steam-mop-only category |
| Smart LED display shows steam level, floor type, and low-water alerts | Slightly heavier than the 1940A and 1806 |
| Steam ready in just 20 seconds | |
| Runs very quietly (reportedly 80% quieter than competitors) | |
| LED headlights help you spot dirt in dark corners and under furniture | |
| XL water tank detaches easily — no measuring cup needed |
Testing Results
I tested it on the kitchen tile floor after cooking — there was grease, flour, and general food mess on the floor. High steam mode combined with the spinning pads handled everything in a single pass. I didn’t need to go back and forth multiple times like I would with a regular mop, because the pads were doing the scrubbing work — I just guided the mop in the right direction.
The LED display was one of the things that impressed me most during testing. It tells you whether steam is ready, what level you’re on, and warns you when the tank is running low. No guesswork at all.
Detailed Review
The SpinWave SmartSteam represents a more modern generation of Bissell steam mops. Instead of simply spraying steam and wiping, it combines mechanical spinning with steam power to attack stubborn stains from multiple angles at once. This is especially helpful for pet stains or dried-on food.
The Fingertip Mode Controls right on the handle let you switch between 2 steam levels or no-steam mode without stopping or bending down. The no-steam mode is a practical addition when you want to use it on laminate but still take advantage of the spinning pads for regular mopping.
One practical note: the SpinWave SmartSteam isn’t the right mop for laminate if you’re going to use high steam regularly. On laminate, always use low steam or no-steam mode. If you want to dig deeper into this topic, check out our detailed breakdown of using steam mops on laminate floors before you decide.
Buy now: Bissell SpinWave SmartSteam
Best Value: Bissell PowerFresh Deluxe 1806
The PowerFresh Deluxe 1806 is what I’d reach for when I want just a few extra conveniences over the 1940A without spending a lot more. The largest water tank in the group (19 oz), the longest power cord (25 feet), and the removable SpotBoost Brush are the three main reasons it earns the best value spot on this list.
- Every BISSELL purchase helps save pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets..Choose between high or low steam settings based on your cleaning needed. Heater warm up time: 30 seconds. Cleaning path width – 12 inches
- Sanitize your hard floors to eliminate 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria without the use of harsh chemicals; (When used as directed; Does not include fragrance disc)
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 19 oz water tank — largest in the group, runs 20 minutes on high steam | SpotBoost Brush requires you to hold it while using — it doesn’t lock in place |
| 25-foot power cord — longest of all models tested | No LED headlights |
| Removable SpotBoost Brush for targeted spot cleaning | |
| Self-standing design — no need to lean it against the wall | |
| Lightweight at 6.2 lbs, won’t tire your arms during long sessions | |
| Edge-Cleaning Mop Head gets closer to baseboards and corners than the 1940A |
Testing Results
The first thing I noticed when testing was that this mop stands on its own — you don’t have to lean it against a wall or set it down on the floor when you need to pause. Sounds like a small thing, but it’s actually really handy when you need to stop and pick something up off the floor or move furniture out of the way.
I tested the SpotBoost Brush on a sticky candy spot and an old dried nail polish stain on tile. Results were impressive — the brush concentrates the scrubbing force into one small area very effectively with the steam. Each stain took about 30 to 40 seconds.
The 19 oz tank was enough to mop my entire living room and kitchen with only one refill needed.
Detailed Review
The PowerFresh Deluxe 1806 is essentially a practical upgrade from the 1940A. It keeps everything that makes the 1940A great: three steam settings, washable microfiber pads, fragrance disc, swivel steering, and ready to use in 30 seconds. On top of that, it adds a larger water tank and the removable SpotBoost Brush for targeted spot cleaning.
The SpotBoost Brush is the standout difference worth noting. When you hit a stubborn spot, you press a lever on the mop head to release the brush, press it directly onto the stain, and scrub with steam. Way more effective than trying to use the full mop head on a small stained area.
The 1806 also comes with an Edge-Cleaning Mop Head designed to get right up against baseboards and cabinet edges — something a lot of steam mops tend to miss. It’s a small detail, but after using it for a while you’ll definitely notice the difference.
If you’re comparing the PowerFresh Deluxe against options specifically for wood floors, take a look at our roundup of the best steam mops for hardwood floors to see how the 1806 stacks up against the competition.
Buy now: Bissell PowerFresh Deluxe 1806
Most Versatile: BISSELL PowerSteamer Heavy Duty 3-in-1 (2685A)
The PowerSteamer 2685A isn’t just a floor steam mop. It’s a complete 3-in-1 cleaning system: an upright steam mop, an extended-reach cleaner, and a handheld steamer all in one. The 13 included accessories let you tackle just about any surface in the house — floors, counters, glass, curtains, car interiors, and even outdoor surfaces.
- POWERFUL, HIGH TEMPERATURE STEAM to blast away dirt, grime, grease, stains, and mold across a wide variety of indoor and outdoor surfaces. For use in garage and workshop areas; Interior and exterior of auto’s, boats, ATV’s, and recreational vehicles; windows; outdoor patio furniture and decks; And all sealed hard floor surfaces..Cleaning Path Width : 13″. Swivel Head : Yes.Automatic Cord Rewind : No
- 3-IN-1 HEAVY DUTY MULTI-PURPOSE STEAM CLEANER. The upright steam cleaner transforms into both an extended reach steam cleaner and a handheld steam cleaner.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 3-in-1: floor mop, handheld steamer, and extended-reach cleaner | No variable steam levels (on/off trigger only) |
| 13 accessories for nearly every surface | Less steam control precision than the 1940A or 1806 |
| Works on outdoor surfaces, car interiors, boats, and RVs | |
| Wall mount keeps everything stored neatly | |
| High-temperature steam effectively tackles mold and mildew | |
| Long cord helps reach high-up and hard-to-access surfaces |
Testing Results
I tested on three different surfaces: kitchen tile floors in upright mode, window track grooves in handheld mode with the grout tool, and bathroom tile corners with the round brush. Switching between all three modes was quick and hassle-free.
The grout tool on the window track was the test I enjoyed most. High-temperature steam combined with the small brush cleared up the yellowish buildup inside the track in just a few seconds — something I’d normally need a scrub brush and cleaning spray to deal with.
The one mildly inconvenient thing is the 350 ml tank. When using it in handheld mode for larger areas, you end up refilling fairly often.
Detailed Review
The PowerSteamer 2685A is the best fit for anyone who wants a versatile multi-purpose tool rather than a dedicated floor steam mop. Its 1,500-watt high-temperature steam breaks down dirt, grease, and mold on a wide range of surfaces without relying on chemicals.
The 13 accessories include a brass round brush, flat scraper, grout tool, fabric steamer cloth, detail brush kit, angle concentrator, window squeegee, and more. Everything has a spot on the wall mount or directly on the unit, so finding and swapping accessories doesn’t take long.
The most significant downside is the lack of variable steam levels. The unit only has a trigger to control steam output — no fixed low/high settings like the 1940A or 1806. That means you’ll need to get a feel for it to control steam output on more delicate surfaces like wood floors.
If you want a clearer picture of the difference between a steam mop and a multi-purpose steam cleaner like this one, our steam mop vs. steam cleaner comparison will help you figure out which type better fits your needs.
Buy now: BISSELL PowerSteamer Heavy Duty 3-in-1
Best Time-Saver: Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam (35151)
The CrossWave HydroSteam is the most unique machine on this list — and the one I’d recommend most specifically for the right person. It’s not a traditional steam mop. It’s a multi-surface cleaning machine that vacuums, wet mops, and steams all in one pass. If you hate having to vacuum first and then mop, this is your answer.
- 3-IN-1 HYDROSTEAM: 20% STRONGER CLEANING*. Vacuum, wash and steam floors at once. HydroSteam Technology combines water and steam to dissolve tough grease 20% faster than steam-only cleaners. Ideal for kitchen spills and pet messes. *Based on internal testing vs. steam-only cleaners on grease.
- TANGLE-FREE BRUSHROLL STOPS HAIR WRAP. Effortlessly prevents hair wrap and handles stubborn pet hair with our specialized brushroll design.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Vacuums + mops + steams at the same time — maximum time savings | Requires cleaning formula |
| Two-Tank Technology keeps clean and dirty water completely separate | Highest price on the list |
| Tangle-Free Brush Roll won’t get jammed with hair and pet fur | |
| Self-cleaning cycle makes post-use maintenance easy | |
| LED headlights help you find dirt in dark corners | |
| Works on carpet too |
Testing Results
My first test was the kitchen floor after breakfast: there were bread crumbs, a small coffee spill, and some flour scattered around. Instead of vacuuming first and then mopping, I just pushed the HydroSteam across the floor once. The crumbs got sucked up, and the coffee and flour were cleaned up by the HydroSteam Technology simultaneously.
Cleaning time for the kitchen dropped from about 10 minutes (vacuum then mop separately) down to around 4 to 5 minutes.
The Two-Tank Technology was what I appreciated most after testing. Dirty water is separated out continuously — it never mixes back into the clean water, so you’re never mopping your floor with dirty water.
Detailed Review
The CrossWave HydroSteam is made for people who want to spend as little time as possible cleaning their floors. By combining three separate steps into one, it completely solves the biggest pain point of floor cleaning: how long it takes.
Bissell’s HydroSteam Technology uses a combination of cleaning formula and steam to boost cleaning power on sticky messes by up to 20% compared to regular wet mopping alone. This is especially valuable in households with young kids or pets, where floors constantly have muddy footprints, dropped food, and pet hair all at once.
That said, the CrossWave HydroSteam isn’t the right tool for every situation. If you just need to mop the floors regularly and don’t mind vacuuming beforehand, the 1940A or 1806 will give you comparable results at a much lower price and considerably lighter weight.
At 12.5 lbs, the weight is worth thinking about — especially if your home has a lot of stairs or you just don’t want a heavy mop to push around for extended sessions.
Overall, this is the best Bissell steam mop if your top priority is saving time and you’re ready to invest in a truly integrated cleaning machine.
Buy now: Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam (35151)
What to Consider Before Buying a Bissell Steam Mop
1. What kind of floors do you have?
This is the most important question. Tile can handle high steam and longer contact time. Laminate and vinyl plank need low steam and faster movement to avoid warping the planks or loosening the adhesive. Sealed hardwood needs the most caution — use only the lowest setting and never let the mop head sit still in one spot for too long.
If your home has a mix of floor types like mine, choose a model with at least 2 to 3 steam levels so you can adjust as you move from room to room.
2. How large is the area you need to clean?
For smaller spaces under about 500 square feet, most Bissell models will do the job. For larger homes, prioritize a bigger water tank (the 1806’s 19 oz is the best in this group) and a longer power cord (the 1806 has 25 feet, the 1940A has 23 feet) so you’re not constantly stopping to refill or change outlets.
3. Do you need versatility or a dedicated floor mop?
If you only need to clean floors, the 1940A or 1806 are more than enough — no need to spend more. If you want one machine to handle floors, counters, glass, and curtains, the PowerSteamer 2685A is the way to go. And if you want to combine vacuuming and mopping into a single step, the CrossWave HydroSteam is the only one on this list that can do that.
4. Weight and maneuverability
Weight ranges from 6.13 lbs (the 2685A) to 12.5 lbs (the CrossWave). If you regularly carry your mop up and down stairs, go lighter. The CrossWave HydroSteam is the heaviest but compensates with wheels and a stable upright design.
5. Budget
There are three clear price tiers: the 1940A at the entry level, the 1806 a step above, and the SpinWave SmartSteam and CrossWave HydroSteam at a notably higher price point. The PowerSteamer 2685A sits in the middle, but when you factor in the value of 13 accessories, it’s actually a solid deal for anyone who needs versatility.
How to Use Your Bissell Steam Mop Effectively
Step 1: Prep your floor before mopping
Always vacuum or sweep first. A steam mop isn’t designed to pick up large debris or dust — its job is to sanitize and clean stains stuck to the floor surface. If you mop over loose crumbs and dirt, the mop head will drag it around instead of actually cleaning.
Step 2: Use the right water
Bissell recommends distilled or demineralized water instead of regular tap water. The reason: tap water has minerals that gradually build up inside the tank and steam passages, reducing performance over time. Never add detergent or cleaning solution to the water tank — use water only.
Step 3: Match your pad and steam level to your floor
Use the soft microfiber pad for hardwood, laminate, vinyl, and other sensitive floors. Use the scrubby pad for tile, ceramic, and floors that can handle more aggressive scrubbing. Use low steam for delicate surfaces, high steam for tile or tough stains.
Step 4: Keep moving — don’t stop in one spot
Move the mop head at a steady pace and don’t hold still in one place for more than 2 to 3 seconds. This is especially important on hardwood and laminate, where concentrated steam exposure can cause swelling or warping.
Step 5: Clean the pads after every use
Remove the pad immediately after mopping and machine wash on a normal cycle. Don’t use fabric softener — it reduces the microfiber’s absorbency. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
Step 6: Store your mop properly
Empty any remaining water from the tank after each use — don’t let water sit inside the machine when it’s not in use. This prevents mineral buildup and mold growth inside the unit. Store it somewhere dry and well-ventilated.
FAQs
1. Which Bissell steam mop is best for tile floors and grout?
The BISSELL 1940A is the top pick for tile, thanks to the Flip-Down Scrubber which is especially useful for cleaning grout lines. The SpinWave SmartSteam with its 230 RPM spinning pads is also very effective on tile if you want stronger scrubbing power.
2. Can you use a Bissell steam mop on laminate floors?
Yes, but carefully. Always use the lowest steam setting, keep the mop moving, and don’t pause in one spot. Many laminate flooring manufacturers don’t recommend regular steam mop use. This is something worth researching before using one on your floors.
3. Which Bissell steam mop is best for pet owners?
The SpinWave SmartSteam is the top choice for pet households because the spinning pads handle pet stains really well. The CrossWave HydroSteam is also an excellent option — its Tangle-Free Brush Roll won’t jam with pet hair, and it vacuums and mops at the same time.
4. Can I use tap water instead of distilled water?
You can, but it’s not recommended for long-term use. Tap water minerals gradually accumulate inside the steam passages and can reduce performance and shorten the life of your machine. Distilled or demineralized water is the best option.
5. How often should I wash the mop pads?
After every single use is ideal. A dirty microfiber pad won’t clean as effectively and can actually leave marks on your floor.
6. Can I add floor cleaner to the water tank?
No. Bissell requires water only in the tank. Adding chemicals can damage the machine and void your warranty. If you want to use a cleaning formula, the CrossWave HydroSteam has a separate tank for cleaning solution that’s completely independent from the steam water tank.
7. Can a Bissell steam mop kill dust mites?
High-temperature steam (typically above 212°F / 100°C) can kill many types of surface parasites, including some mites and their eggs on hard floors. However, Bissell doesn’t make an official claim about dust mite elimination — they only certify killing 99.9% of certain bacteria and viruses.
8. How do I know when it’s time to replace the pads?
When the pads have faded significantly, no longer absorb well, or start leaving streaks on the floor after mopping. With weekly use, quality microfiber pads typically last 6 months to a year before needing replacement.
9. Can Bissell steam mops be used on carpet?
Some models include a carpet glider, like the 1940A, which lets you use steam to freshen up rugs. However, this isn’t deep carpet cleaning — it’s more of a light refresh and odor treatment. The CrossWave HydroSteam can actually clean carpet more thoroughly thanks to its brush roll and combined suction function.
10. What should I do if my mop stops producing steam or the steam is weak?
First, check that the water tank has enough water. If the tank is full but steam is still weak, mineral buildup inside the steam passages is most likely the cause. Fix: fill the tank with a 50/50 mix of white vinegar and water, run the machine until it empties, then repeat with clean water. This effectively clears mineral deposits.
If you’re comparing Bissell against other brands before making your final decision, the Bissell vs. Shark steam mop comparison gives you an objective look at the two brands currently leading this category.
