Steam cleaners have become an indispensable tool for cleaning and sanitizing homes. With the ability to eliminate dirt, stains, allergens, and bacteria using only the power of steam, they provide a chemical-free cleaning solution.
Two of the most popular steam cleaner brands are Bissell and Karcher. But which one is better?
In this guide, we’ll compare the key features, pros and cons of Bissell and Karcher steam cleaners to help you decide which brand best suits your needs and budget.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Bissell | Karcher |
| Steam Power | Non-pressurized, lower steam rate | Pressurized steam, up to 180 g/min |
| Steam Temperature | ~300°F | ~300°F |
| Water Tank Size | 15-20 oz | 20-48 oz |
| Ease of Use | Very easy, simple controls | Moderate learning curve |
| Accessories Included | Limited, mainly pads | Extensive assortment |
| Durability | Plastic components | Metal components |
| Price | $50-$120 | $100-$250 |
| Best For | Routine floor cleaning | Heavy-duty cleaning, commercial use |
Overview of Bissell Steam Cleaners
Bissell is one of the most recognized brands in the floor care industry. They offer a wide range of steam mops and handheld steam cleaners perfect for hard floors and above-floor cleaning.
Some key features of Bissell steam cleaners:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Large water tanks for extended cleaning
- Adjustable steam levels
- Accessories like scrubbing pads, brushes, and scrapers
- Affordable price points
Bissell steam mops are ideal for sealed hard floors like tile, linoleum, sealed hardwood.
They sanitize floors by killing up to 99.9% of germs and bacteria.
Some models have a removable mop pad that you can throw in the washing machine for convenience.
The handheld steam cleaners allow you to clean and sanitize above-floor surfaces like countertops, appliances, windows, mirrors, and more. No chemicals needed!
Overview of Karcher Steam Cleaners
Karcher is a leading brand from Germany that manufactures high-powered cleaning equipment for both residential and commercial use. They are renowned for their innovative steam cleaners.
Some notable features of Karcher steam cleaners:
- Pressurized steam for deep cleaning
- Large water tanks up to 1.3 liters
- Steam levels up to 180 g/min
- Integrated wringer to remove excess water from mop pads
- Useful attachments like brass brushes, nylon brushes, etc.
- Higher price points than Bissell
Karcher steam mops tackle tough dried-on messes on tile, stone, linoleum, and sealed hardwood floors. The pressurized steam helps penetrate and loosen dirt for thorough cleaning.
Their handheld steam cleaners are ideal for cleaning ovens, grills, automotive components, patio furniture, and more. The super-heated steam dissolves grease and grime with ease.
Key Differences Between Bissell And Karcher Steam Cleaners
Now that we’ve covered a brief overview of both brands, let’s compare them across some key factors:
- Steam Power
When it comes to steam power, Karcher steam cleaners are the clear winner. Karcher steam mops deliver pressurized steam at a rate of up to 180 g/min. This allows them to clean deeper and more effectively.
Bissell steam mops emit non-pressurized steam at a lower rate which is sufficient for everyday cleaning but lacks the power to tackle messes that have dried on.
For handhelds, Karcher steam cleaners also emit pressurized steam that can penetrate and dissolve stubborn, stuck-on grime. Bissell handhelds rely more on steam temperature rather than pressure for cleaning.
- Steam Temperature
Bissell and Karcher steam cleaners reach similar maximum temperatures around 290-310°F. This is hot enough to sanitize surfaces and kill germs, bacteria, dust mites, etc.
Both brands heat up quickly in 30 seconds to 1 minute. So there’s no major difference in steam temperature between them.
- Water Tank Capacity
Karcher steam cleaners tend to have larger water tank capacities compared to Bissell.
For example, the Karcher SC3 EasyFix steam mop holds 20 oz of water while the Bissell PowerFresh holds 15 oz.
Larger water tanks allow for longer continuous cleaning before needing a refill.
This is advantageous when cleaning larger areas.
However, Bissell’s smaller tanks are lighter and more manageable. So if you plan to use a handheld steam cleaner on small jobs, a smaller tank could be preferable.
- Ease of Use
Bissell steam mops and handhelds tend to be more user-friendly, especially for residential use. They have simple controls, lightweight designs, and swivel heads for maneuverability. The mops conveniently stand upright for storage.
Karcher steam cleaners have more complex controls and settings. Their design and operation is better suited for experienced users and commercial applications.
So when it comes to ease of use for home use, Bissell steam cleaners are generally easier to operate out of the box.
- Accessories
Karcher steam cleaners come with more useful accessories for varied cleaning tasks. Most Karcher mops include at least one accessory like a brass scrubbing pad, nylon pad, squeegee attachment, etc.
Their handhelds include an array of brushes, nozzles, scrapers and other tools. All these accessories enhance your ability to clean different surfaces.
Bissell steam cleaners have fewer attachments, mostly just microfiber pads or scrubby mop pads. So Karcher provides more flexibility and value via the bundled accessories.
- Durability
Karcher is renowned for making durable, rugged steam cleaners built for regular use. Their steam mops have metal components and thick steam hoses. The handhelds have metal wands and attachments.
Bissell makes quality steam cleaners too but some models have more plastic components which compromises long-term durability.
So for longevity, Karcher steam cleaners are generally sturdier and more durable. Bissell mops may require pad replacement once the microfiber wears out.
- Price
Bissell steam cleaners are very reasonably priced for the performance they deliver. Their steam mops cost $80-$120 and handhelds cost around $50-$80.
Karcher steam cleaners are priced at a premium, costing almost double Bissell’s comparable models. Their mops are $150-$250 and handhelds around $100-$200.
You pay more upfront for a Karcher but get enhanced steam power and accessories. Bissell gives you great bang for buck if you’re on a budget.
Best For Sealed Hard Floors – Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop
If your main goal is to routinely clean and sanitize sealed hard floors, we recommend the Bissell PowerFresh Steam Mop.
It generates hot steam to eliminate 99.9% of germs and bacteria for clean, sanitized floors without harsh chemicals. The triangular mop head maneuvers easily around furniture and into corners.
We like the lightweight swivel design, affordable price, and easy maintenance. The reusable microfiber pads are machine washable. Plus there’s variable steam control and useful accessories included.
For an effective, affordable, and user-friendly steam mop to keep floors clean and hygienic, the Bissell PowerFresh is an excellent choice.
Best For Tough Jobs – Karcher SC3 EasyFix Steam Mop
For the best performance tackling dried-on, sticky messes on hard floors, choose the Karcher SC3 EasyFix Steam Mop.
The pressurized steam loosens and dissolves even stubborn, stuck-on gunk and grime. The mop head has an integrated wringer so you don’t burn your hands squeezing out dirty water.
We like the large water tank, easy roller wheels, accessories like brass scrub pad, and sturdy metal construction. The steam level is adjustable up to 180 g/min as needed.
With superior steam power and rugged design, the Karcher SC3 EasyFix Steam Mop is ideal for frequent heavy-duty use and commercial settings. It’s worth the investment for maximum cleaning results.
Best Handheld – Karcher SE 4002 Steam Cleaner
For above-floor cleaning versatility, we recommend the Karcher SE 4002 Handheld Steam Cleaner.
The pressurized steam helps clear grease, soap scum, mildew and more from surfaces like ovens, countertops, tile and glass.
The accessories like nylon brush, squeegee nozzle, etc. tackle any job.
We like the large tank capacity, adjustable steam, sturdy metal wand, and 9.5 ft cord.
The steam cleaner heats up in 30 seconds for quick, chemical-free cleaning whenever you need it.
With professional-grade steam power and quality, the Karcher SE 4002 Handheld Steam Cleaner is the top choice for whole-house steam cleaning.
Steam Cleaner Buying Guide
Here are a few key factors to consider when choosing between Bissell vs Karcher steam cleaners:
- Steam Pressure – Karcher’s pressurized steam offers superior cleaning ability for dried-on messes
- Water Tank Size – Karcher holds more water for longer cleaning, but Bissell is lighter
- Steam Temperature – Both reach sanitizing temps around 300°F
- Accessories – Karcher includes more useful accessories like brushes and nozzles
- Ease of Use – Bissell is simpler to operate for everyday home use
- Durability – Karcher builds steam cleaners with more metal components and rugged design
- Price – Bissell is more budget-friendly while Karcher is a premium-priced investment
So weigh your needs, budget, and how you plan to use a steam cleaner before deciding on Bissell or Karcher. Both make excellent steam cleaners. Karcher excels at deep cleaning and commercial use while Bissell is ideal for routine floor care.
FAQ About Bissell and Karcher Steam Cleaners
For residential cleaning, Bissell makes some of the best lightweight and affordable steam mops and handhelds. For commercial use and the most cleaning power, Karcher is the top brand.
The Karcher SE 4002 is a top-rated handheld steam cleaner praised for its pressurized steam, ample accessories, large tank, and durability. It tackles the most cleaning tasks.
Yes, Karcher makes excellent steam mops that outperform most competitors. They deliver pressurized steam for the deepest cleaning results on hard floors. Their mops are also built for durability and designed for convenient use.
Karcher and Polti both make high-quality, powerful steam cleaners. Karcher is better known for their sturdy build quality and wide accessory assortment. Polti offers patented steam cleaner technologies and convenient cordless options. It depends on your specific needs and budget.
The Verdict
While Bissell and Karcher take slightly different approaches to their steam cleaners, both brands offer outstanding performance and value.
For routine floor cleaning at home, a Bissell steam mop gives you everything you need at an affordable price point. Karcher excels when you need the most powerful, pressurized steam for deep cleaning and commercial applications.
We hope this detailed comparison of key features, pros and cons helps you pick the best Bissell or Karcher steam cleaner for your needs. Let us know if you have any other questions!