BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam Deluxe — 3-in-1 Cleaner Review
This 3‑in‑1 floor cleaner vacuums, washes, and steams in one pass — ideal for busy U.S. homes handling kitchen spills and pet messes. It features HydroSteam Technology and a dual-tank system that separates clean and dirty water for fresher cleaning.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Enjoy 20% faster grease removal based on internal tests versus steam-only cleaners.
- Get tangle-free maintenance with the specialized brushroll that prevents hair wrap.
- Avoid dirty water reuse using the dual-tank system for consistently fresher results.
- Clean hands-free with one-touch self-cleaning for automatic brushroll maintenance.
- Tackle multiple floors — tile, sealed wood, laminate, and area rugs.
- Vacuum, wash, and steam simultaneously with true 3‑in‑1 functionality for faster cleanups.
$368.99
The 3-in-1 HydroSteam is a floor cleaning system that combines vacuuming, wet washing, and steam cleaning into one machine. It’s designed for homes with a mix of hard floors and low-pile rugs, and it targets greasy kitchen spills, everyday dirt, and pet messes with a steam + water cleaning approach.
If you want a single appliance to pick up dry debris, scrub away sticky spots, and sanitize with steam without switching tools, this aims to simplify the job. Quick verdict: a convenient, all-in-one option for busy households that need stronger grease removal and easier pet-hair cleanup (source: listing, checked 2025).
What’s in the Box
- Main 3-in-1 HydroSteam unit (vacuum + washer + steamer) — inferred from listing features
- Tangle-free brushroll (installed) — inferred from listing features
- Clean water tank (removable) — inferred from listing features
- Dirty water tank (removable) — inferred from listing features
- Quick-start guide / documentation — Not specified
- Cleaning/maintenance tool — Not specified
Note: Some items above are inferred from the listing’s feature set. If you need an exact accessory list (brush types, cleaning solution sample, power cord length), check the retailer’s product page or the box contents section before buying.
Design & Build
The HydroSteam is built around a combined wet/dry head with an integrated brushroll and twin tanks. Materials are primarily plastic and rubber for tanks and seals, with a motorized base for suction and brush-roll drive. The dual-tank design physically separates the clean water from the used water, which helps avoid re-circulating dirty wash water.
Size and weight implications
- Expect a footprint similar to upright floor cleaners that combine vacuum and mop functions. Because it integrates a water tank and steam generator, it’s heavier than a dry vacuum-only stick but still designed for household maneuverability.
- The removable tanks are intended to make emptying and refilling easier, but you’ll need both hands for handling when full, especially the dirty water tank.
Ergonomics
- The one-touch self-cleaning button reduces hands-on maintenance of the brushroll.
- The brushroll’s tangle-free geometry is aimed at reducing hair wrap, which cuts the need to clip and pull hair off the brush.
- Handle and control placement aren’t specified in the listing; expect basic user controls on the handle or base for power and the self-clean function.
Key Features
HydroSteam Technology — water + steam for stronger grease removal
HydroSteam Technology mixes water and steam to tackle stubborn, greasy deposits. The manufacturer claims this combination dissolves tough grease 20% faster than steam-only cleaners (source: listing, checked 2025).
Where it helps: In kitchens and entryways where grease, oil splatters, and sticky residues are common, the added water helps emulsify and lift grime before steaming, making spot treatment faster than steam by itself.
Practical note: Grease removal is often about heat, mechanical agitation (brushroll), and solvency. HydroSteam pairs agitation from the brushroll with moisture and heat, which is effective on fresh or slightly set-on grease. For heavily baked-on or aged grease, pre-treatment or a degreaser might still be required.
Tangle-Free Brushroll — reduces hair wrap and pet-hair buildup
The brushroll is specially designed to prevent hair from winding around the roller. That means less time cutting and removing hair and more time cleaning.
Where it helps: Homes with long-haired pets or people with long hair. In real life, you’ll spend fewer minutes maintaining the brush and more minutes actually vacuuming.
Practical note: “Tangle-free” reduces but doesn’t eliminate all hair collection around bearings or end caps — occasional inspection is wise.
Dual-Tank System — no cross-contamination of water
The HydroSteam keeps clean water separate from the dirty water it picks up. That separation ensures you’re always applying fresh water and cleaning solution to the floor rather than recycling the dirty rinse water.
Where it helps: On heavily soiled surfaces, in homes with pets, and where hygiene matters (kitchens, bathrooms). Fresh solution per pass generally improves results and reduces streaking.
Practical note: Make sure both tanks are seated fully; the unit won’t function properly if the clean-water tank isn’t aligned. Empty the dirty tank after each heavy session to avoid odors.
One-Touch Self-Cleaning — automated brush-roll cleaning
Press a button and the machine runs a self-cleaning cycle that rinses and cleans the brushroll without you having to touch it.
Where it helps: This saves time and reduces contact with dirty brush fibers. It’s especially helpful if you’ve just tackled a pet-traffic area or hair-filled mat.
Practical note: Self-clean cycles flush the brush and some internal hoses; you’ll still need to empty the dirty water tank and occasionally inspect seals for debris.
Multi-Surface Versatility — works on sealed hard floors and area rugs
The HydroSteam is promoted for use on tile, sealed wood, laminate, and for refreshing area rugs with steam.
Where it helps: If your home has a mix of hard flooring and small rugs, this device lets you treat both without swapping tools. The steam function can refresh fibers and sanitize, while suction and water cleaning remove surface grime from hard floors.
Practical note: Avoid using steam on unsealed wood or delicate floors. Test in an inconspicuous area first and follow floor manufacturer recommendations.
Performance & Use
Setup
- Fill the clean water tank with water and, if the manufacturer recommends, the appropriate cleaning solution. (The listing does not specify included solution or dilution ratios — Not specified.)
- Install the brushroll if shipped separately, place the unit on a hard surface, and plug it in.
- For steam functions, allow the unit to heat until the ready indicator signals steam availability (heating times are not listed — Not specified).
Daily use tips
- Vacuum first in high-debris areas to remove dry dirt, then use the wet/steam pass for stuck-on spots.
- For pet messes, pick up solids before using the HydroSteam. The steam + water combo is effective on greasy or smeared areas, but solids can clog tanks and filters.
Maintenance
- Empty the dirty water tank after each use to prevent odor and bacterial growth.
- Use the one-touch self-clean to flush the brushroll; follow with an occasional manual check of brush ends and bearings.
- Descale only if the manufacturer provides descaling instructions — not listed in the supplied information.
Safety and storage
- Steam is hot. Let surfaces cool before walking on them.
- Do not use the Steam function on unsealed wood or surfaces not recommended for moisture exposure.
- Store the unit upright in a dry area; drain tanks if storing for long periods.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Reduced suction: check the dirty tank and filters for clogs, empty and rinse.
- Poor steam output: ensure clean tank is filled and the machine is fully heated; if performance doesn’t recover, consult manufacturer support.
- Brushroll not turning: check for blockages and use the one-touch self-cleaning cycle.
Pros vs Cons
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Combines vacuuming, washing and steaming in one pass — saves time and transitions between tasks. (Based on listing features) | Exact heating time and steam temperature not listed — you may not know how quickly it’s ready or how hot the steam is. |
HydroSteam Technology claims 20% faster grease removal vs steam-only cleaners (source: listing, checked 2025). | No specific specs for water tank capacity or run-time provided — hard to estimate how often you’ll refill. |
Tangle-free brushroll reduces hair wrap and maintenance, useful for pet owners. | Weight and dimensions are not listed — may be heavier than a cordless stick, making stair transport harder. |
Dual-tank system prevents dirty water recirculation for cleaner results. | No detailed accessory list or official compatibility for cleaning solutions provided. |
One-touch self-cleaning lowers contact with dirty brush fibers and simplifies upkeep. | No explicit warranty or service details listed — check the seller for coverage before purchase. |
Who Should Buy
- Households with mixed flooring (tile, sealed wood, laminate) that want an all-in-one cleaning solution.
- Pet owners who need a machine designed to reduce hair wrap and clean up pet-related messes.
- Busy buyers who prefer one appliance that vacuums, washes, and steams to reduce storage and tool swapping.
Who Shouldn’t Buy
- People who need detailed technical specs (tank sizes, weight, power rating) before purchasing — those details are not listed.
- Owners of unsealed wood or delicate flooring that can’t tolerate steam.
- Shoppers looking for a lightweight, cordless stick-style cleaner for quick pick-ups — this machine integrates tanks and a steam generator and will be heavier.
Specs
Spec | Value |
---|---|
Cleaning claim | HydroSteam Technology: “20% stronger cleaning” vs steam-only cleaners on grease (source: listing, checked 2025) |
Brushroll | Tangle-free brushroll design (source: listing) |
Tank system | Dual-tank (separate clean and dirty water) (source: listing) |
Self-cleaning | One-touch self-cleaning for brushroll (source: listing) |
Suitable surfaces | Tile, sealed wood, laminate, area rugs (source: listing) |
Dimensions | Not listed |
Weight | Not listed |
Clean water tank capacity | Not listed |
Dirty water tank capacity | Not listed |
Power / Wattage | Not listed |
Steam temperature | Not listed |
Heating time / run time | Not listed |
Warranty | Not listed |
Included accessories | Not listed |
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
If you want an integrated machine that vacuums, washes, and steams — with a particular emphasis on grease removal and low-hassle pet-hair maintenance — the 3-in-1 HydroSteam is worth considering. Its HydroSteam Technology and dual-tank design address two common pain points: greasy kitchen messes and the reuse of dirty rinse water. The tangle-free brushroll and one-touch self-cleaning also reduce day-to-day maintenance.
Before you buy, confirm the accessory list, tank capacities, and warranty with the seller if those details matter to you. If your home includes sensitive flooring that can’t tolerate steam, choose a different approach.
Want to compare models or check current offers? Visit the seller’s listing to see packages, accessories, and up-to-date pricing.
Specification: BISSELL CrossWave HydroSteam Deluxe — 3-in-1 Cleaner Review
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delightful_life –
Used this for the first time today. I really love it! It’s well made and it really works- I have a few suggestions if Bissel is listening or receptive.
First – the instructions for the clean out cycle say to fill the container to the icon with water “and the solution” and as an option to put the solution in the tray before placing the crosswave on it to run the self cleaning mode. However, the icon doesn’t have 2 lines like in the back to say how much water and how much of the self-clean solution to add. I filled it up to the icon and just used about 3/4 of the bottle added to the water to bring the level up the the icon- like the instruction says. I ran the cycle and it lasted a couple minutes and barely used much of the water/solution. I ran it again and then cleaned everything out – and man it got a lot out – the water was filthy. I decided to do another series of 2 (Each cycle is about a minute long). This time the water was just a little dingy at the end. However, I used the whole bottle of the solution (small one that comes in the box) putting some in the tray as well as suggested, but in the end the “clean water” chamber was maybe half empty. I just water a lot of solution following the instructions. It would be good to clarify how much solution to water to use. Also, why does it say to fill it to that icon when the cleaning cycle barely uses any of the water?
Second suggestion- an option to lock the steam and solution trigger so you don’t have to constantly hold it down while you are mopping. I found my hand getting tired and aching. It isn’t that the trigger is difficult to depress, it’s just being forced to grip one way only – it hurts when you have arthritis. If you could include a button to lock the trigger down if wanted that would be helpful 🙂
I love the storage tray that you can set the crosswave on to self-clean and then to dry. It’s cool there’s a place to store the roll while it dries after use.
I have cats and this awesome machine is going to be so helpful for keeping the floors and area rug clean and the steam function will help kill pathogens. Overall I am really happy with it. I got it on sale during the amazon days sale ($250) and it is worth it. Full price was too steep for me so I was so glad to get it at the sale price. I think this little machine would be worth it if you can afford it full price.
E. Miller –
I live on a farm with two big dogs, three kids, and two cats—so let’s just say its dirty over here. I’ve been a die-hard fan of the original green Bissell CrossWave for years. It was the only thing that could keep my deep-grooved floors clean. But the new Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam has officially taken first place in my cleaning lineup.
What I Love:
Steam + Mop + Vacuum = Game Changer. With the green CrossWave, I used to steam and mop to get my floors really clean. Now I only need one machine. The steam loosens the grime from my textured floors and the vacuum/mop function clears it all away. I included a picture of the side by side of the original and the steam.
Waste tank design is smarter. The mesh divider lets me scoop out hair and gunk without clogging up the drain.
Self-cleaning mode is a dream. Cleaning the original CrossWave was kind of a pain. This one makes cleanup quick and easy. I think it does a good job cleaning too because I don’t get the smell I use to get with the green one. Ive even been cleaning up dog pee with it and no smell.
Looks and feels more durable. The black and gold design is sleek, and the machine just feels sturdier and better made.
Room to Improve:
I wish I could turn the steam on/off independently from the mop solution. Sometimes I just want to steam without laying down more cleaner.
It would be great to have separate tanks for steam water and cleaning solution instead of combining them and steaming cleaner.
The light stays on when it’s plugged in, which means I unplug it when not in use—minor, but worth mentioning.
Overall:
I’m seriously excited about this machine. It makes daily cleanup faster and more effective, and it’s strong enough to tackle muddy paw prints and spilled snacks in one pass. If you’re debating between the original and the steam version—go for this one. It’s absolutely worth it. Easier clean up. Faster. Sleeker. I love this thing.
E. Miller –
1. Es una aspiradora pesada, no es fácil su manipulación.
2. Se vacia con rapidez el agua, y mas cuando utilizas el modo “vapor”.
3. El modo vapor no es lo que uno cree, solo ves un poco de semi humo salir pero por un lapso mínimo, 10 segundos y creo que exagero.
4. No es para utilizar debajo de mubles, simplemente no cabe, hay que mover todo.
5. Se tardo 13 dias en llegar.