When shopping for the best Bissell vacuum cleaner, you’re looking for a reliable vacuum that’s effective across a wide array of floor types. And in many cases, you might be a pet owner, given the brand’s recent focus on not just banishing pet hair but supporting pet adoption charities.
Bissell is a long-time home cleaning appliance brand known for creating quality products that last across a wide variety of price points. The brand makes a wide array of vacuum, floor, and spot cleaning products designed to tackle dry and wet messes. Meanwhile, they create vacuums in a range of configurations, including robotic, upright, canister, and stick solutions — including cordless vacuum mops.
Keep reading our best Bissell vacuum buying guide to learn more. And if you’re not sure that a Bissell is what you need, start with our best vacuum cleaner buying guide.
Top Bissell Vacuums
#1 Bissell 2252 Vacuum Cleaner
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model can turn on a dime thanks to advanced swiveling technology, and the transparent dust cup makes it easy to empty it in time. Additionally, this model features edge-to-edge bristles so users can vacuum next to furniture and baseboards.
- Excellent versatility
- Wide cleaning path
- 6 ft. hose length
- Sub-par suction
The Bissell 2252 vacuum cleaner is an excellent pick for users looking for fast and efficient cleaning for carpeted areas and hard flooring. This model features fast-spinning bristles and a 13.5” cleaning span to minimize your trips around the living room. Additionally, this model features a transparent 1L dust bin and a bottom-empty design for easy emptying. While this vacuum cleaner doesn’t feature the strongest suction, users will love the included specialized tools and long cleaning hose.
In addition to a wide cleaning span and specialized hose attachments, the Bissell 2252 vacuum cleaner delivers a near-borderless bristle head so users can clean around furniture and baseboards. This vacuum cleaner also offers scatter-free technology, so users don’t spread the mess instead of picking it up. Additionally, the muti-cyclonic suction system ensures that dirt, pet hair, and dust stays in the tank and away from the vacuum motor and post-motor filter.
#2 Bissell 2486 Vacuum Cleaner
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model features a lightweight design that makes it simple to clean stairs or lift the unit into a car. Additionally, users will love the long power cord and 6-foot hose that can clean hard-to-reach areas like ceilings and underneath furniture.
- Long power cable
- Lightweight design
- Scatter-free technology
- Somewhat loud
The Bissell 2486 vacuum cleaner is a compelling option for users looking for a lightweight vacuum that features top-class mobility for crowded rooms or lifting upstairs. This vacuum cleaner features a high-capacity Multi-Cyclonic cleaning system that keeps dirt away from the motor, protecting it from clogs. Additionally, this model delivers a 25 ft. power cable so users can clean their homes without feeling restricted. While this model is somewhat loud, the powerful motors ensure quick and efficient cleaning.
In addition to an extended power cord and motor-protection features, the Bissell 2486 vacuum cleaner delivers multiple specialty attachments to cover corners, blinds, and light dusting. This model features Scatter-Free technology so users can clean spills without spreading the mess around. Additionally, with OnePass technology, this vacuum can pick up most surface debris in a single pass. Lastly, users will love the large dirt tank that holds 1L, and the bottom door flips open with a single button press.
#3 Bissell 2390A Vacuum Cleaner
Award: BEST FOR ANIMAL LOVERS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This handheld unit features a lightweight design and an ergonomic handle to keep users comfortable while clearing their furniture of crumbs or animal hair. In addition, the rechargeable battery offers a wire-free operation for cleaning outdoor furniture or car upholstery.
- Impressive brush options
- Rechargable battery
- Easy to empy
- Not ideal for large jobs
The Bissell 2390A vacuum cleaner is a superb choice for users looking for a portable unit cleaning furniture or detailing a car. This model features a rechargeable battery, so users feel unrestricted while clearing pet hair from blinds or a couch cushion. Additionally, the 0.7L dirt cup is easy to empty, and users will love the triple-level filtration that keeps the vacuum in top shape. While this model only offers 17 minutes on a full charge, the handheld design makes it an easy choice for quickly cleaning pet messes.
In addition to a built-in battery and a decent dirt receptacle, the Bissell 2390A vacuum cleaner delivers specialized attachments to tackle numerous messes. This vacuum cleaner features a thin crevice tool that’s ideal for detailing tight spaces like couch cushions or near appliances. The motorized brush offers additional cleaning power for embedded dirt and matted pet hair on furniture. Lastly, the upholstery tool is excellent for soft surfaces that collect pet hair or general dust.
#4 Bissell 2033M Vacuum Cleaner
Award: BEST FOR CLEANING PROFESSIONALS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This three-in-one model features multiple form factors and cleaning modes to offer an extremely versatile cleaning tool ideal for small spaces. Additionally, this model is under 5lbs and perfect for detailing the stairs or furniture.
- Extremely light weight
- Bagless dust recepticle
- Multiple cleaning modes
- Small cleaning path
The Bissell 2033M vacuum cleaner is an excellent choice for users needing a lightweight and portable unit for quick cleanups or working as a professional cleaner. This model features three operating modes that make it easy to pick up a small mess or do the weekly cleaning. Additionally, this vacuum cleaner is under 5lbs, so it is easy to lift or store for most users. While the cleaning path is a bit small, users will love the mighty suction power that makes quick work of pet hair, dust, and dirt.
In addition to powerful suction and a lightweight design, the Bissell 2033M vacuum cleaner features a three-in-one design to present a supremely versatile housekeeping tool. With a simple button press, this model quickly transforms into stick vacuum mode, hand vacuum mode, or stair vacuum mode. Additionally, this vacuum cleaner offers a crevice tool for reaching tight spaces like between furniture or appliances.
#5 Bissell 2156A Vacuum Cleaner
Award: BEST FOR TOUGH JOBS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model weighs less than 10lbs and delivers a compact form factor for users looking for a powerful clean with easy storage. Additionally, this model features a long power cord that automatically retracts with a single button press.
- Fantastic suction
- 2L dust canister
- 15 ft power cable
- Sub-par cleaning path
The Bissell 2156A vacuum cleaner is an excellent pick for users looking for a lightweight unit that can tackle tough cleaning jobs. This model weighs 8lbs, and the simple operation ensures that most users can quickly clear their homes of pet hair, dust, and general messes. Additionally, this model features a 15 ft power cord that retracts into the vacuum with a single button. While the cleaning path isn’t extensive, users will love the powerful suction that makes easy work of tough messes.
In addition to powerful suction and a long power cord, the Bissell 2156A vacuum cleaner delivers an excellent tool for maintaining clean carpets, hard floors, and furniture. This model allows for multi-surface cleaning thanks to the low-profile design and ideal brushes. Additionally, the removable 2L dirt cup offers an Easy Empty lid for mess-free and straightforward emptying. Lastly, the long stick design lets users easily maneuver around furniture and other obstacles.
#6 Bessell 29869 Vacuum Cleaner
Award: BEST FOR SMALL JOBS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This model features a striking design and a rechargeable battery to present an always-ready cleaning tool for appliances or car detailing. Additionally, this model offers multiple cleaning heads and a washable filter to ensure a great clean in any situation.
- Reusable filter
- Compact design
- USB charging base
- Only 12 minutes per full charge
The Bissell 29869 vacuum cleaner is an excellent pick for users needing an on-the-go solution to small messes or detailing appliances and vehicles. This rechargeable vacuum cleaner features a USB-operated charging base with storage for the bristle and crevice attachments. Additionally, users will love the compact design that easily fits in a kitchen or laundry room. While this model only offers 12 minutes on a single charge, it delivers good suction power throughout the battery life.
In addition to a compact design and modern charging base, the Bissell 29869 vacuum cleaner features multiple attachments to cover various cleaning situations. The vacuum brush is ideal for cleaning kitchen messes like spilled flour or coffee grounds. In addition, the crevice tool is fantastic for detailing a car’s interior or clearing crumbs from couch cushions. Lastly, this model offers a one-button operation and a decent-sized dust receptacle that is simple to empty.
Introduction to Bissell Vacuums
Bissell is a longtime American heritage cleaning brand that started with humble beginnings in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1876. The brand was invented from necessity when Melville R. Bissell got frustrated with constantly having to manually sweep sawdust from the carpeting in his family’s crockery shop.
Melville created and patented a one-of-a-kind sweeper to clean his floors, not realizing that it would quickly become popular. In 1889 when Melville passed away, his wife Anna took the reigns, working to protect the company’s patents while also boosting marketing efforts across North America and Europe. Since then, Bissell has continued to be a leader and innovator — including bucking social norms.
In 1956, Bissell released the manual carpet shampooer, eliminating the need for homeowners to get on their hands and knees to scrub carpets. The following year, that vacuum (known as the Shampoo Master) won the Bachner Award for Achievement because of its practical application and well-made plastic housing. The 1960s would see Bissell earn even more awards.
The 1970s and 1980s saw Bissell target their efforts into the deep cleaning niche. This included the Bissell SC, a deep cleaning vacuum that didn’t need to be connected to a water source. Later, the organization would release the Big Green Clean Machine and PowerGroom — the first of many upright vacuums that could easily tackle dry messes.
The 2000s saw Bissell turn its attention to effective hair removal cleaning for homes with pets — a leading reason why some people opt not to bring a pet home. Anyone familiar with Bissell commercials will know that the powerful vacuum cleaner brand prioritizes pet adoption to combat pet homelessness and even created the Bissell Pet Foundation, which has partnered with over 3,000 shelters in all 50 states. The brand also committed to donating at least $1 million in 2018 earmarked from pet product sales to support their charity.
How Bissell Vacuums Compare to Other Brands
(Pro 1) Comprehensive Product Catalog: Thanks to their years in the business, Bissell vacuums cover the gamut from stick to upright models (including several cordless options), canisters, carpet cleaners, a handheld vacuum niche, and even a robot vacuum. Meanwhile, they also have vacuums that technically pull double duty like the BarkBath Dual Use Portable Dog Bath & Deep Cleaning System, which you can also use to spot clean Fido’s accidents on your furniture or rugs thanks to an accompanying upholstery tool.
(Con 1) Not the Cheapest Option: All of that innovation in floor and pet cleaning technology doesn’t come at a bargain. While Bissell vacuums are considered worthy investments, they don’t have a lot of entry-level price ranges for their vacuums by any stretch of the imagination.
(Pro 2) Robust Options Across Cordless Models: While most brands have cordless vacuums that are somewhat limited in functionality or power, that’s not true for Bissell. Their Crosswave category features multiple models that almost look like traditional, great upright vacuum cleaners but have wet-dry functionality, serious suction power, a wide array of included cleaning tools, or a durable tangle-free brush roll.
(Con 2) Less Competitive Battery Life: We all know that vacuums powered by a lithium-ion battery have a finite runtime before you need to recharge them. But except for a head-to-head challenge between Bissell’s robotic vacuums, Bissell tends to underperform in the battery department. Its most likely competitors — Dyson, Shark, Hoover, or the best Miele vacuum — all offer at least 30 or more minutes of runtime on a full charge when running the suction on regular power. Meanwhile, Bissell tends to max out around 20 to 25 minutes with the suction on regular power.
(Pro 3): A Brand on a Mission: Serious pet lovers may feel like their money is better spent supporting Bissell simply because of the pledge to allocate proceeds from their pet vacuum niche towards the Bissell Pet Foundation’s goal to boost pet adoption and save animals from the shelter.
(Con 3) Swivel Steering May Not Be as Easy on Heavier Vacuums: There’s no denying that Bissell has figured out how to get your floors clean — regardless of what dirt or dry debris is littering them. But if you opt for some of their more oversized canister vacuums or uprights, don’t be surprised if you have to put a bit more force behind your movements to navigate across the floor with a Bissell vacuum.
Why You Should Buy a Bissell Vacuum
Bissell is synonymous with quality — and for good reason. For over 100 years, this American brand has made getting your floors really clean their top priority. Often being the first to market with innovative features (like the first carpet shampooer in 1956), Bissell has earned the right as a leader within the floor cleaning niche.
In particular, if you need multi-surface cleaning support in your home or find yourself constantly trying to curtail dog hair, Bissell is a go-to solution with whole-home cleaning solutions. The company not only focuses on dry floor cleaning but also creates a wide array of wet-dry and mop-only floor appliances. And they’ve developed a wide array of companion floor cleaners designed specifically to work with their vacuums and mops.
| Feature/Aspect | Bissell Vacuums | Other Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Product Range | Wide range, diverse vacuum types | Varied ranges, less diverse |
| Price | Higher price, few entry-level options | More entry-level priced options |
| Cordless Models | Robust with advanced features | Limited functionality in some models |
| Battery Life | Shorter, around 20-25 minutes | Longer, often 30+ minutes |
| Brand Mission | Focus on pet welfare and adoption | Varies, some lack philanthropic focus |
| Maneuverability | Heavier models less easy to navigate | Often lighter, more maneuverable models |
Although most of their vacuums are on the mid to higher tier for pricing, they do offer a few entry-level options that include classic manual sweepers and a simple corded stick vacuum to keep small spaces tidy. You’ll also like that nearly all of their vacuums come with accessories that range from simple options like a crevice tool to more robust options like detachable differentiated brush rolls or cleaning fluids to tackle specific cleaning needs.
And, of course, pet fans will appreciate that Bissell’s CrossWave segment, in particular, offsets a percentage of proceeds towards their Bissell Pet Foundation to assist in saving animals from a life in exile by financially supporting pet adoptions at shelters across the country.
How Long Will Bissell Vacuums Last?
Nothing lasts forever, and this even applies to a beloved Bissell vacuum. In general, you can expect to get around eight years of cleaning power from your Bissell vacuum before it’s time for an upgrade. In particular, the two factors most likely to impact your vacuum’s lifespan are build quality and user behavior.
Bissell is a quality brand that puts thought, effort, and investment into its product offering. So, you can rest assured that if you buy a brand new or refurbished Bissell from the brand or an authorized reseller, your money is well spent. Therefore, your cleaning habits and how you care for your Bissell will determine whether or not you reach eight or more years or have to replace it prematurely.
First, always make sure you pair your vacuum to your cleaning needs. For example, it wouldn’t make sense to use just a cordless stick vacuum to clean a large home. Not only would you probably struggle to clean the entire house on a single charge, but you’ll also increase the chance of wearing out the motor prematurely. Cordless stick models are better reserved for quick messes.
Likewise, avoid abusing your vacuum. If you don’t need to use the maximum suction level to clean your floors, don’t. Even if your vacuum can powerfully suction larger debris, it might be better to quickly sweep up oversized dirt pieces and then rely on your vacuum to manage the smaller items. Additionally, be sure to clean your vacuum’s dust bin regularly so that it operates properly.
If you have a wet-dry vacuum or mop, empty the dirty water bin regularly to prevent mold from forming or old odors from being released back into the air with future uses.
Bissell Vacuum Warranties
As is common, Bissell’s new vacuum purchases are covered by a one-year limited warranty. This warranty covers the purchase of new vacuum models either directly from Bissell or an authorized retailer. During this time, if your vacuum stops working, Bissell promises to replace or repair your vacuum at no charge to you.
Note that this warranty does not cover commercial or rental use. Additionally, it doesn’t apply to routine maintenance components like filters, bags, brushes, belts, or vacuum fans. Likewise, if the brand discovers that the damage is due to consumer negligence, abuse, or an unauthorized repair, the warranty won’t apply.
