We recently purchased a new vacuum cleaner to replace the one we’ve had since moving into our current home nearly sixteen years ago.
I looked online at different models, and really liked the tools/features Bissell offered at an affordable price ($110 from Amazon). Plus it didn’t hurt that the machine was purple (my favorite color).
Bissell Cleanview Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
The day after it was delivered, I vacuumed the house and there was so much dust (which looks like sand in the canister) and grey dust bunnies it was unbelievable! Granted, it had been two weeks since we last vacuumed (we usually do it weekly), but I was still shocked.
I vacuumed again four days later and while the accumulation wasn’t like before, there was still a decent amount of dirt in the canister. Since we don’t wear shoes inside, we wipe our dog’s paws after every walk, and she doesn’t shed, it’s amazing to me that so much stuff had accumulated so quickly. I can really see and feel a difference in the carpet – it looks cleaner and it’s fluffier. I guess the old vacuum just wasn’t doing its job.
I still have mixed feelings about the Bissell. While I like it more after using it a few times, it’s still not perfect by any means.
Pros
Powerful suction – lets me clean the bare floors without needing the attachments.
Lightweight – makes it easy to push and carry upstairs.
Convenient storage – the cord is stored in the machine and rewinds with the push of a button and all the attachments clip securely to the unit.
No bags or filters that need to be replaced.
Cons
I don’t like how dusty the machine gets when emptying the canister and there’s no HEPA filter (apparently Bissell doesn’t use HEPA in ANY of their vacuums for some reason).
It tips over easily when using the hose (even if I have it right next to me) so I’ve been hit in the head multiple times already.
It’s loud (88 decibels), so I need to use ear protection.
It sucks up small throw rugs (like ones by our doors or in the bathrooms) because you can’t reduce the suction power. If you stand on the rug, or only push the vacuum forward and don’t pull it back, I can get away with it cleaning the larger rugs, but this won’t work for the smaller flimsy bathroom rugs.
I might be expecting too much in this price point, though, and overall I’m still pleased with the new vacuum because it does get rid of a lot of dust and dirt.