The multi-function cleaning of the Bissell CrossWave makes it an excellent choice of vacuum for houses with multiple surfaces.
Safe to use on carpet and hard floors, the CrossWave can vacuum, wash, and dry, allowing you to tackle all sorts of mess.
Bissell recommends using their own brand Multi-Surface Cleaning Formula in the CrossWave, but other cleaners can be used. However, this will void your warranty.
There is also a risk it might clog the spray nozzle. But if you have a favorite non-Bissell cleaner that you know works, it should be fine to use.
Looking for spotless floors? Check out our guide to which cleaners can be used with the Bissell CrossWave.
About The Bissell CrossWave
The Bissell CrossWave is a multipurpose cleaning tool that vacuums, washes, and cleans your floors all in one go.
Used like a standard vacuum, the brush and suction system releases dirt and sucks it away.
For spotless floors, press a button, and water and cleaning solution are released from the head.
This is then sucked up and dried by the vacuum. You can release as little or as much water and cleaning solution as you like, to match the surface underneath.
Can You Use Any Cleaner In The Bissell CrossWave?
Bissell recommends using the Bissell Multi-Surface Cleaning Formula, but technically any cleaning solution will work.
However, using something other than the Bissell formula will void your warranty.
The Bissell CrossWave has a two-tank system built into the design.
One tank is filled with your fresh water and cleaning solution, while the other has the dirty water suctioned off the floor.
The two are kept separate at all times, so you don’t release dirty water onto your new vinyl.
Technically, you can put whatever you like in the first tank, although water and cleaning solution is very much recommended.
As to whether you use Bissell branded formula or not, it largely depends on how you feel about the warranty.
Using any non-Bissell branded cleaners, including homemade solutions, voids the warranty.
The Bissell Multi-Surface Cleaning Solution is suitable for many surfaces, and is easy to use with the vacuum.
It’s a good choice if you have multiple surfaces, such as vinyl and carpet, in your home.
However, it is expensive compared to other brands, and might not always be available.
Alternatives To Bissell Cleaner
If you’re out of the warranty period, or you don’t mind the risk of voiding, then you can use a range of cleaning solutions on your Bissell CrossWave.
The most important thing to consider is the surfaces you intend to be cleaning. Not all solutions are suitable for all surfaces, and the wrong type can end up causing serious damage.
Don’t forget to factor in the dilution rate when making your choice. Mix the cleaning solution first, and then add it to your CrossWave.
Vinegar And Water
A mixture of vinegar and water is a popular and effective cleaning solution, and a good choice for the CrossWave.
Vinegar has disinfectant properties, and is safe to use on a variety of surfaces.
Mix ½ cup of vinegar with a gallon of water, and use on sealed floors and even synthetic carpets. Avoid using on any unsealed surfaces, and add more water if tackling a hardwood floor.
Bleach And Water
Bleach is another popular cleaning solution, particularly as it has incredible disinfectant properties. Mix ½ cup of bleach with a gallon of water, and use on vinyl floors.
While bleach is great if you want to clean away germs, it isn’t suitable on many surfaces. Don’t use bleach on porous materials such as wood, or you risk discoloration.
If you do choose to use bleach, only mix it with water. Mixing bleach with even common household cleaners can be dangerous.
Your Preferred Cleaner
If you’ve found a cleaner that you think works wonders for your floors, then you might want to continue using it with your Bissell CrossWave. For the most part, this is likely to be okay.
Many of these solutions will work similarly to the Bissell branded solution, cleaning multiple surfaces without causing damage.
Be sure to check the dilution rate before using, and avoid any cleaners that might be particularly thick. There’s a possibility that these will clog up the mechanism,
Can You Use The Bissell CrossWave Without Cleaning Solution?
The Bissell CrossWave can be used simply as a vacuum, as long as you avoid triggering the water release.
It has a surprisingly powerful suction, a removable brush roll, and a low weight.
Because of this, it can be used to tackle multiple surfaces, including tiled floors, wood floors, and carpet.
The Bissell CrossWave is designed to work as a 3-in-1 vacuum cleaner, but that doesn’t mean you have to use all three components at once.
If you simply want to vacuum up a spill, then there’s no need for water release. On some surfaces, it’s actually better not to use water when cleaning.
Cleaning The Bissell CrossWave After Using
When you’ve finished vacuuming, it’s worth cleaning the tank and brush roll of the Bissell CrossWave, particularly if you’ve chosen your own cleaning solution.
This will remove any solution that might stick to the sides of the tanks, or clog the mechanism.
Begin by removing both tanks from the CrossWave, including the clean water tank. Rinse both with clean water, and either leave to air dry, or wipe dry with a towel.
Next, remove the brush roll. Rinse down the brush roll, and leave to dry. With a damp cloth, wipe the inside of the vacuum head, where the brush roll sits. Wipe the end of the spray nozzle.
When everything is dry, you can assemble your vacuum.
Final Thoughts
The Bissell CrossWave is a 3-in-1 vacuum that uses a dual tank and spray release system to enhance cleaning. Technically, any cleaner can be used in the water chamber, but Bissell recommends using their own brand.
Using other cleaners will void your warranty. However, if you have a preferred cleaner that you know is safe for your floors, you can use it instead.