Choosing the right cleaning tool can make a huge difference in your home’s upkeep and your daily routine. When it comes to keeping floors spotless, you might be torn between the Shark Hydrovac and the Bissell CrossWave X7.
Both promise powerful cleaning, but which one truly fits your needs? Whether you’re dealing with spills, pet hair, or stubborn grime, understanding their strengths and weaknesses can save you time, effort, and frustration. Keep reading to discover which cleaner matches your lifestyle and helps you achieve the spotless home you deserve.
Model Comparison
Comparing the Shark HydroVac and the Bissell CrossWave X7 helps buyers choose the best fit. Both machines clean hard floors and carpets but have different strengths. Understanding size, design, and tank capacity can clarify which model suits your needs. This section breaks down these key features for easy comparison.
Size And Weight
The Shark HydroVac is slightly smaller and lighter. It weighs around 12 pounds, making it easy to carry and store. The Bissell CrossWave X7 weighs about 15 pounds, a bit heavier but still manageable. Size differences affect maneuverability and storage options in tight spaces.
Design Features
The HydroVac uses a compact design with a clear water tank for quick checks. It has a simple control panel with easy buttons. The CrossWave X7 offers a sleek look with a touch-screen display for more control. Both models have swivel steering, but the Bissell feels smoother around corners.
Tank Capacity
The Shark HydroVac holds about 0.3 gallons of clean water and 0.3 gallons of dirty water. This means frequent emptying during large jobs. The Bissell CrossWave X7 has a larger tank capacity of 0.4 gallons for clean and dirty water each. This allows longer cleaning sessions without interruptions.
Cleaning Performance
The cleaning performance of Shark Hydrovac and Bissell Crosswave X7 varies by floor type and cleaning need. Both models clean hard floors and carpets but differ in efficiency and reach. Understanding their strengths helps choose the right tool for your home.
Hard Floor Efficiency
The Bissell Crosswave X7 cleans hard floors deeply and quickly. It uses strong suction and a spinning brush to remove dirt and debris. The Shark Hydrovac also cleans well but may leave some water spots behind. Bissell handles sticky messes better on tiles and wood floors.
Carpet Cleaning
Bissell Crosswave X7 performs better on carpets than Shark Hydrovac. It lifts dirt from low-pile rugs and light carpets with its multi-surface brush. Shark Hydrovac struggles with thick or plush carpets and often misses stuck-on dirt. For homes with many carpets, Bissell offers a deeper clean.
Edge And Corner Reach
Shark Hydrovac faces challenges cleaning edges and corners effectively. Dirt near walls may be left behind. Bissell Crosswave X7 has better edge reach due to its brush design. It cleans close to baseboards and corners without missing spots. This feature improves overall cleanliness in tight spaces.
Battery And Runtime
Battery life and runtime are key features for cordless vacuum cleaners like the Shark Hydrovac and Bissell CrossWave X7. These factors determine how long you can clean without interruptions. Both models offer different battery performances that affect user experience and cleaning efficiency.
Battery Life
The Shark Hydrovac has a battery life of around 20 minutes per charge. It suits small to medium cleaning tasks. The Bissell CrossWave X7 offers longer runtime, up to 30 minutes. This extra time helps cover larger areas in one go. Both batteries perform well but vary by cleaning mode.
Charging Time
The Shark Hydrovac needs about 3.5 hours to fully charge. This means a short wait between uses. The Bissell CrossWave X7 requires around 4 hours for a full charge. While slightly longer, it provides more cleaning time. Charging both vacuums is straightforward with their included docks.
Maintenance And Durability
Maintenance and durability are key factors when choosing a floor cleaner. Both the Shark Hydrovac and Bissell Crosswave X7 need regular care to stay effective. Easy maintenance saves time and effort. Durable parts reduce repair costs and extend the machine’s life. This section breaks down how each model handles tank emptying, brush roll cleaning, and build quality.
Tank Emptying Process
The Shark Hydrovac has a smaller dirty water tank. It requires frequent emptying during cleaning sessions. The tank detaches easily, but its size means more stops to empty. This can interrupt your cleaning flow.
The Bissell Crosswave X7 features a larger dual tank system. It separates clean and dirty water well. The dirty water tank removes with a simple click. It holds more water, so fewer interruptions occur. Both tanks have wide openings, making them easy to rinse out.
Brush Roll Cleaning
The Shark Hydrovac’s brush roll is simple to remove. It has a cover that snaps off for access. Users should clean hair and debris often to keep it spinning freely. The design is straightforward but may trap some dirt under the cover.
The Bissell Crosswave X7 offers a brush roll that lifts out quickly. Its self-cleaning system helps remove hair and fibers during use. Still, occasional manual cleaning improves performance. The brush is designed to resist tangles, reducing maintenance time.
Build Quality
The Shark Hydrovac uses mostly plastic parts. The build feels lightweight and easy to carry. Some users note that certain plastic components may wear faster. Overall, it suits light to medium cleaning tasks.
The Bissell Crosswave X7 has a sturdy frame with solid plastic and metal parts. It feels more robust and stable during operation. The design supports heavy use and offers better long-term durability. This model fits households that require frequent, thorough cleaning.
User Experience
The user experience of the Shark Hydrovac and Bissell Crosswave X7 shapes how comfortable and effective cleaning feels. Both machines offer wet and dry cleaning but differ in practical details. Understanding noise, smell, and ease of use helps decide which fits daily routines better.
Noise Levels
The Shark Hydrovac runs quietly compared to many vacuums. It produces a soft hum, which is less disturbing in homes with kids or pets. The Bissell Crosswave X7 is louder, with a sharper motor sound. Users report it can be noisy during suction and washing phases. For noise-sensitive users, the Shark may offer a calmer cleaning experience.
Chemical Smell
Some Shark Hydrovac users notice a faint chemical odor from the cleaning solution. This smell fades quickly but can be unpleasant at first. The Bissell Crosswave X7’s formula has a milder scent, often described as fresh or neutral. Neither machine emits strong odors after use, but Bissell’s solution tends to suit those sensitive to smells better.
Ease Of Use
The Shark Hydrovac is lightweight and easy to maneuver around furniture. Its simple controls allow quick start and stop during cleaning. The Bissell Crosswave X7 has a slightly larger build but offers more cleaning modes. This model includes a touch screen for selecting functions, which some find helpful and others find complex. Both machines require regular tank emptying and brush cleaning, but the Shark’s smaller tank means more frequent stops.
Special Features
The Shark HydroVac and Bissell CrossWave X7 offer unique special features that enhance cleaning. Both combine vacuuming and mopping but have distinct strengths. Understanding their features helps choose the right tool for your home.
Vacuum And Mop Modes
The Shark HydroVac has separate vacuum and mop functions. It cleans hard floors with strong suction and sprays water for mopping. The Bissell CrossWave X7 combines vacuuming and mopping in one pass. It uses multi-surface brush rolls to clean floors quickly. Both models suit different cleaning needs.
Pet Hair Handling
The Shark HydroVac handles pet hair well with its powerful suction. It picks up fur from hard floors but may need multiple passes on carpets. The Bissell CrossWave X7 features a tangle-free brush roll designed for pet hair. It captures hair without clogging, making it easier to clean pet messes.
Smart Controls
The Shark HydroVac includes simple controls with easy mode selection. It has indicator lights for water levels and battery life. The Bissell CrossWave X7 offers smart controls with LED touch buttons. It provides cleaning tips and alerts for maintenance. These features improve user experience and cleaning efficiency.
Price And Value
Choosing between the Shark Hydrovac and the Bissell Crosswave X7 means considering price and value carefully. Both models offer unique features for cleaning mixed floors. Evaluating their costs and what you get for your money helps make a smart buying decision.
Cost Comparison
The Shark Hydrovac generally costs less than the Bissell Crosswave X7. This makes it attractive for budget-conscious buyers. The Crosswave X7 has a higher price but includes more advanced cleaning technology. The extra cost may be worth it for those needing stronger cleaning power. Comparing prices at different stores can reveal discounts or deals. Factor in the price of replacement parts and cleaning solutions too.
Warranty And Support
Both brands provide warranties that cover manufacturer defects. Shark usually offers a 1-year limited warranty. Bissell often extends to 2 years for the Crosswave X7. Longer warranty periods add peace of mind. Customer support is available via phone or online chat for both. Bissell has a reputation for quick responses and helpful service. Shark’s support is reliable but may vary by region. Check what the warranty covers to avoid surprises later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Shark Hydrovac Better Than The Bissell Crosswave?
The Bissell CrossWave offers better battery life and larger tanks. Shark HydroVac suits quick spills but struggles with deep cleaning and edges. Choose CrossWave for versatility and HydroVac for light, fast cleanups.
What Are The Cons Of The Shark Hydrovac?
The Shark HydroVac has limited battery life and small dirty water tanks needing frequent emptying. It struggles with edge cleaning, water pooling, and tough, stuck-on messes. Users report durability issues, a chemical smell, and no vacuum-only mode. It performs better on spills than deep carpet cleaning.
Which Vacuum Is Better, Shark Or Bissell?
Shark vacuums excel in strong suction and versatile cleaning. Bissell offers better wet cleaning and larger tanks. Choose Shark for carpets, Bissell for multi-surface wet cleaning.
What Are Common Problems With The Crosswave?
Common CrossWave problems include clogged brush rolls, dirty water tank leaks, battery issues, and difficulty cleaning edges and corners.
What Are The Main Differences Between Shark Hydrovac And Bissell Crosswave X7?
Shark Hydrovac is smaller with less battery life, while Bissell Crosswave X7 has a bigger tank. Bissell performs better on carpets and edge cleaning. Shark is good for quick spills and hard floors.
Conclusion
Both Shark HydroVac and Bissell CrossWave X7 offer solid cleaning options. Shark suits quick spills and light messes well. Bissell handles larger areas and tougher dirt better. Battery life and tank size differ between them. Consider your home’s needs and cleaning habits.
Choose the one that fits your daily routine best. Either way, both bring value to your cleaning tasks. Simple, effective cleaning is the goal.
Brandy A. Cherney lovingly refers to herself as a cleaning geek, born and bred in South Carolina but moved to New York City to earn her B.A. in English. She is currently a wife, and mother of two children, two cats, and a dog. Brandy has always loved writing, but never thought she would write for a living.