Bissell’s CrossWave line has redefined multi-surface wet-dry cleaning since its debut, and in 2026 the lineup is stronger than ever. Each model vacuums, washes, and dries floors in a single pass, cutting cleaning time dramatically. Whether you have hardwood, tile, laminate, or area rugs, there is a CrossWave built for the job. Here are the five best models you can buy right now.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Est. Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro | Pet owners with mixed surfaces | ~$150-400 |
| Bissell CrossWave Max | Large homes, heavy daily use | ~$150-400 |
| Bissell CrossWave Cordless Max | Cord-free convenience | $$$$ |
| Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam | Deep sanitizing clean | $$$$ |
| Bissell CrossWave X7 | Whole-home cordless coverage | $$$$ |
1. Bissell CrossWave Pet Pro
The CrossWave Pet Pro is the go-to choice for households with cats, dogs, or any furry companions. Its tangle-free brush roll actively resists pet hair wrap, a persistent annoyance on standard rollers. The dedicated pet hair strainer keeps the dirty-water tank flowing freely, and Bissell’s Multi-Surface Pet Floor Cleaner formula tackles pet messes and odors simultaneously. On hard floors the suction is impressively quiet, and on area rugs it transitions seamlessly without requiring a mode switch. If pet mess is your primary cleaning challenge, this model deserves the top spot on your list.
2. Bissell CrossWave Max
The CrossWave Max scales up everything that makes the base CrossWave effective. The cleaning path is wider, the dirty-water tank holds more, and the brush roll spins faster to pull debris off textured tile and grout lines. The self-cleaning cycle runs longer to flush the brush and hose between rooms, reducing cross-contamination of dirt. For anyone cleaning kitchens, mudrooms, entryways, and living areas in one session, the Max’s larger capacity means fewer interruptions. It still fits in a standard closet and costs less than the cordless variants.
3. Bissell CrossWave Cordless Max
Cut the cord without cutting capability. The CrossWave Cordless Max delivers the same multi-surface performance as the corded Max but runs on a removable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 30 minutes of runtime. That is enough for most average-sized homes in a single charge. The self-cleaning dock charges the battery and rinses the brush roll simultaneously, so the machine is always ready for the next session. The ergonomic handle reduces wrist fatigue during extended use, and the swivel steering navigates chair legs and furniture edges with ease.
4. Bissell CrossWave HydroSteam
For households that want a sanitizing clean without chemicals, the CrossWave HydroSteam integrates steam into the CrossWave formula. A built-in steam generator heats water to sanitizing temperatures, loosening baked-on grease in kitchens and killing bacteria on bathroom tile. The machine switches between regular wash mode and steam mode at the press of a button, giving you flexibility depending on how heavily soiled the floor is. It does weigh slightly more than other CrossWave models due to the steam chamber, but the deep-clean results on grout and textured stone are noticeably superior.
5. Bissell CrossWave X7
The X7 is Bissell’s most advanced cordless CrossWave, featuring dual brush rolls that tackle different floor types simultaneously and a self-emptying base that stores used solution away from the clean water reservoir. The runtime stretches to 45 minutes thanks to a high-capacity battery pack, making it suitable for multi-story homes. Its HEPA filtration captures fine particles expelled during the cleaning cycle, which is a meaningful benefit for allergy sufferers. The X7 is the most expensive model on this list, but it packages every refinement Bissell has made to the CrossWave platform into a single machine.
What to Look For
Brush roll compatibility - match the brush roll to your dominant floor type. Pet-hair-resistant rolls are worth the upgrade if you have animals. Hard-floor rolls are gentler on delicate finishes. Tank capacity - larger tanks reduce interruptions on big open floors. The Max and X7 hold more dirty water than the base CrossWave. Corded vs. cordless - corded models never run out of power, while cordless models remove trip hazards. Choose based on outlet proximity and cleaning area size. Steam capability - if sanitizing without chemicals is important, the HydroSteam is the only CrossWave with true steam. Self-cleaning cycle - every CrossWave includes some form of self-cleaning, but the X7 and Cordless Max have the most thorough automated rinse cycles.
Final Thoughts
Bissell’s CrossWave lineup covers every household need from basic multi-surface washing to advanced steam sanitizing. The Pet Pro wins for pet owners, the Max for everyday heavy-duty use, the Cordless Max for cord-free freedom, the HydroSteam for chemical-free sanitizing, and the X7 for whole-home cordless coverage. Pick the model that matches your floor types and cleaning frequency and you will find yourself spending far less time on floors in 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the CrossWave and CrossWave Max?+
The CrossWave Max features a larger cleaning path, bigger dirty-water tank, and more powerful suction than the standard CrossWave. It covers more floor per pass and reduces how often you empty the tank, making it better suited for large open-plan homes or anyone who cleans frequently.
Can the CrossWave Pet Pro handle thick pet hair on carpets?+
Yes. The CrossWave Pet Pro uses a tangle-free brush roll specifically engineered to pick up pet hair without wrapping around the roller. It also includes a pet hair strainer in the dirty-water tank to prevent clogs during emptying.
Is the CrossWave Cordless Max worth the extra cost over corded models?+
For most users, yes. The CrossWave Cordless Max delivers up to 30 minutes of runtime and eliminates cord dragging across wet floors. If your cleaning area spans multiple rooms or lacks convenient outlets, the cordless freedom justifies the price premium.