Richard Harrison

Hoover SmartWash vs. Bissell ProHeat 2X Comparison

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Hoover SmartWash

Bissell ProHeat 2X

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Hoover SmartWash

4.6 out of 5
Main characteristics:
  • Dimensions 18.9 x 13 x 43.5 inches
  • Weight 18.49 lbs.
  • Orientation Wash
  • Cleaning head 12 inches with Removable Recovery Nozzle
  • Brush system FlexForce™ PowerBrushes
  • Tank 1 gallon
  • Cleaning formula Sample Bottle of Cleaning Solution
  • Cleaning modes One
  • Drying time 60-120 minutes
  • Best for Low, medium, and high pile carpets, area rugs, upholstery
  • Cord length 22ft.
  • Handling Triggerless Handle Design
  • Warranty 5 years
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Bissell ProHeat 2X

4.6 out of 5
Main characteristics:
  • Dimensions 15 x 12.5 x 43.5 inches
  • Weight 17.5 lbs.
  • Orientation Wash
  • Cleaning head 11 inches with EZ Clean Brush Roll Cover
  • Brush system Dual DirtLifter PowerBrush
  • Tank 1 gallon
  • Cleaning formula PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator
  • Cleaning modes Two (Express and Deep Clean)
  • Drying time 30 minutes (Express Mode)
  • Best for Low, medium, and high pile carpets, area rugs, upholstery
  • Cord length 25ft.
  • Handling Ergonomic Handle with Button Controls
  • Warranty Limited 5 years.
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Introduction


Hoover SmartWash vs. Bissell ProHeat 2X – which is the best upright carpet cleaner to buy and why? If you are in this dilemma, this is the right place to be. We have analyzed the two models to find their similarities, differences, and, importantly, which is best for you, and why.

Upright carpet cleaners are the in thing now that they are advanced and pack extras that make life with carpets a buzz. Hoover and Bissell are among the household names in the carpet cleaning market, with the Hoover SmartWash Advanced Pet Automatic Carpet Cleaner and Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro Full-Size Carpet Cleaner as the best sellers. For the record, several variants exist in the Hoover SmartWash and Bissell ProHeat series. In this review, we have the Hoover FH52000 SmartWash and Bissell 1986 ProHeat.

Hoover and Bissell carpet cleaners share quite a lot in common, but there are profound differences at the end of the day. Bissell is much more portable and offers better cleaning performance. It also has multiple cleaning modes and a better attachment set.

For more regarding how the two carpet cleaners compare, stay tuned.

Hoover SmartWash vs. Bissell ProHeat 2X Face to face Comparison

In this main segment of this Hoover vs. Bissell carpet cleaner comparison review, find out how the two square it out. We have based our comparison on the essential factors considered when selecting the best carpet cleaner to buy. Without further ado, let's get into it.
1. Type
carpet cleaner

The Hoover SmartWash is an upright carpet cleaner suited for all types of carpets. It can handle low pile carpets, medium pile, thick carpets, Flokati, area rugs; you name it.

The SmartWash boasts raw cleaning power that enables it to clean all types of stains, from pet urine stains to wine spills among other stubborn stains.

Interestingly, it cleans and dries carpets so you can enjoy your carpet’s warmth once again in the shortest time possible. Besides carpets, the SmartWash can be used as an upholstery cleaner.

carpet cleaner

Bissell ProHeat too is an upright carpet cleaner similar to your ordinary upright vacuum.

It is also an all-rounder that can deep clean low pile carpets, medium pile, high pile, area rugs, and Flokati, among other carpet types.

When it comes to specialization, the ProHeat packs the cleaning power to eliminate stubborn stains. Here again, there is a carpet drying feature, so you won’t have to worry about wet carpet spots. The ProHeat can also double up as an upholstery cleaner.

In this first round, there is no winner as both models are upright carpet cleaners and handle all types of carpets and stains. They are also upholstery cleaners.

2. Design and Aesthetics
upright

The Hoover SmartWash boasts a sleek and stylish design. As mentioned earlier, it’s an upright carpet cleaner.

Something worth mentioning is the relatively cheap build quality compared to Bissell.

The Hoover SmartWash measures 18.9 x 13 x 43.5 inches and weighs 18.49lbs. As for the finish, it is Turquoise.

upright

Bissell 1986 ProHeat is similar to the Hoover SmartWash in that it’s also an upright cleaner with the same design. However, there are a few differences.

First, Bissell is 15 x 12.5 x 43.5 inches and weighs 17.5lbs. The finish is sparkle silver with grapevine purple accents.

In this second round too, it's hard to call a winner as both models bear the same design. However, we feel the Bissell ProHeat is the winner as it has a sturdier build and is lighter. But you can't ignore the fact that Hoover has a larger cleaning path width.

3. Cleaning Orientation
wash and dry

Hoover cleans using the push to wash (forward), pull to dry (backward) mechanism and as the name suggests, there are two phases.

In the first phase, when the cleaner is pushed forward, the wash mode is activated. When pulled back, it switches to dry mode. One heavily praised feature of this cleaner is Auto-Clean Motion Sensing Technology but unfortunately, it disappoints.

Sometimes the SmartWash doesn’t recognize forward motion when pushing the cleaner slowly, so it won’t switch to the right mode.

wash and dry

Bissell, on the other hand, comes with a special trigger that allows you to switch between dry and wet vacuuming.

The cleaner washes the carpet when you push it forward and activates the heating mechanism to dry it when you pull it back.

Bissell has not hyped its cleaner, but from our experience, it doesn’t have motion recognition issues like Hoover, so expect it to be in the right mode, at the right time, for efficient cleaning.

While both cleaners use the same cleaning mechanism, Bissell ProHeat is the best choice as it can accurately detect motion, so at no time will it be in the wrong mode. Even at the slowest push, it will switch to wash mode, while the slightest pull sends it back to dry mode.

4. Tools and Accessories
5

Below are the items included in the Hoover SmartWash package:

  • Hoover FH52000 unit
  • 2-in-1 Antimicrobial Pet Tool
  • 8-foot Accessory Hose
  • Sample Bottle of Cleaning Solution
  • Accessory Storage Bag
5

Below are the items included in the Hoover SmartWash package:

  • Hoover FH52000 unit
  • 2-in-1 Antimicrobial Pet Tool
  • 8-foot Accessory Hose
  • Sample Bottle of Cleaning Solution
  • Accessory Storage Bag

Here, it's hard to call a winner as both models have some USPs. If you want the convenience of an extra tool, Bissell is the best bang for the buck. However, if you don't want to lose any of your tools, go for Hoover, as it comes with a handy accessory storage bag.

5. Usability
user-friendly

The Hoover SmartWash is user-friendly. No technical assembly is required. In fact, you can start attacking the stains almost immediately you get it out of the box.

All you have to do is pop the handle into the main unit, fill the tank, plug it in the mains, and you’re ready to go. The handling is excellent courtesy of the mindful weight distribution.

Turning at sharp corners can be tricky, but thanks to the low-profile cleaning head, the SmartWash can reach under furniture. On the downside, Hoover has a troublesome power button that sometimes won’t remain engaged in the POWER ON position.

user-friendly

Bissell ProHeat is also a great deal when it comes to usability. It is also a no-assembly carpet cleaner.

Just pop in the handle, and you are good to go. The next thing is filling the tank and plugging the cleaner into the mains.

Bissell also has great handling and can reach under most low-profile furniture where the carpet extends.

The ProHeat is also ergonomic and has strategically placed controls.

Here, Bissell carries the day as it is user-friendly and doesn't have any flaws, unlike Hoover, which is known for its malfunctioning power button. It sucks having to power the unit over and over again.

6. Cleaning Head
FlexForce™ PowerBrushes

The Hoover SmartWash comes with FlexForce™ PowerBrushes designed to gently but effectively remove stubborn stains from all carpet fabrics.

The brush has stiff bristles that separate the carpet fibers to reach the deep carpet fabric infested with stains. The brush also facilitates thorough detergent mixing, and above all, it sucks up water, thus fastening the carpet’s drying time.

On the downside, this brush has the tendency to get tangled when cleaning carpets with long dog hairs.

Dual DirtLifter PowerBrush

On the other hand, Bissell comes with a Dual DirtLifter PowerBrush similar to Hoover in that there are two brushrolls.

Courtesy of the 12 rotating rows of bristles, the ProHeat can remove embedded dirt and stains from the deep carpet fabric, leaving it in its new shape. One thing we noticed is the effectiveness when dealing with tough stains.

Bissell managed to clear the same stains with much fewer passes, as we will see in our exclusive cleaning test results.

Here again, Bissell takes the lead. While the two carpet cleaners have the same brush design, Bissell's Dual DirtLifter PowerBrush is tougher on stains and hardly gets tangled, even when dealing with long hairs. But if you have soft carpets, you should consider Hoover, as it is much gentler.

7. Cleaning Solution
compatible

For effective carpet cleaning, you need to add a cleaning solution to your Hoover SmartWash. The SmartWash boasts an automatic water dispensing mechanism.

All you need to do is add the cleaning solution to the water tank and let Auto-Mix do the rest.

Auto-Mix is a clever feature that mixes and dispenses cleaning solutions precisely for optimal cleaning. The Hoover SmartWash comes with a sample cleaning formula.

compatible

Just like Hoover, you will need to use a cleaning solution with the Bissell ProHeat for a deep clean, especially when dealing with stains.

Bissell comes with a separate 20 oz. cleaning solution tank and CleanShot Pretreater, an innovative feature that squirts the concentrated cleaning solution on specific spots for a deeper clean.

Using this feature is pretty simple; direct the nozzle to the mess, and pull the trigger, (the spray button). The SmartWash 1986 comes with a PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator formula, a trial size of Bissell’s best formula for tough pet stains and odors.

The Bissell ProHeat 2x is the winner here. The CleanShot Pretreater gives you more freedom when it comes to cleaning formula usage. In addition, Bissell comes with PET PRO OXY Urine Eliminator formula which is not just a general cleaning formula, but one specialized for pet messes.

8. Tank(s) Capacity
1-gallon

Hoover comes with a dual tank design separated by a rubber valve – one for clean water and another for dirty water. The clean water tank has a 1-gallon capacity, enough to finish cleaning an averagely sized carpet.

This is alongside a 20 oz. cleaning solution tank specifically for cleaning formulas. One advantage of Hoover is that you can decide to clean with water alone or add some cleaning formula for that extra touch.

Both tanks have been innovatively designed to allow for easy detachment and attachment during maintenance – emptying the dirty water and filling cleaning water and cleaning formula.

1-gallon

Bissell too comes with a dual tank design so you can always clean the carpet with clean water. The clean water tank has a 1-gallon capacity, just like Hoover. But one difference, Bissell doesn’t come with a separate tank for the cleaning formula.

Instead, you have to mix the cleaning solution with the clean water. The problem with this is that you don’t have the liberty of cleaning with clean water only once you mix the cleaning solution.

Regarding maintenance, the Bissell ProHeat’s tanks are also easily detachable, so you won’t have to struggle to empty and fill the tanks.

It's hard to call a winner here now that both models have a two-tank design and a 1-gallon clean water capacity. They are also easy to attach and detach during maintenance. However, we feel Hoover's separate water tank is the decider. With Hoover, you can clean with clean water only or with water and cleaning solution.

9. Cleaning Modes
1

Hoover SmartWash doesn’t offer much when it comes to cleaning options.

There is only one cleaning mode, so you don’t have the option of customizing the cleaning depending on how big the mess is.

3

On the other hand, Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Max Clean Pet Pro Full-Size Carpet Cleaner has three cleaning modes.

First is Express Clean custom-tailored for those light stains and Deep Clean, which steps up cleaning power to eliminate tougher stains.

The other mode is Max Mode which comes in handy when handling the tough stains that won’t go away in Deep Clean mode.

Definitely, Bissell is the best choice, as you can customize cleaning depending on the cleaning power required.

10. Drying Time
1-2 hours

Hoover uses Hoover HeatForce Technology to dry your carpets. So, how does it work? Well, many assume that it works in the same ways as a steam mop, but it’s not the case.

HeatForce is a mechanism that blows hot air on the carpet fabric, thus drying it. The drying time depends on the fabric and the level of clean.

On average, your carpet should dry in 1-2 hours. For the record, Hoover SmartWash HeatForce Technology doesn’t kill germs and bacteria.

0.5-2 hours

On the other hand, Bissell ProHeat uses HeatWave Technology. Here, the carpet cleaner offers warm water cleaning power.

The unit first heats the water which when hot aids in removing stubborn stains and killing bacteria and germs. Importantly, HeatWave Technology ensures faster drying.

In Express mode, the carpet can dry in as little as 30 minutes, while in Deep Clean, it can take 1-2 hours to dry, which is still acceptable.

Here, Bissell ProHeat is the best choice as it has a mode that facilitates faster drying. Besides, it uses hot water to cut through stains and kill germs and bacteria, something Hoover can't do.

11. Cord and Hose Length
22ft cord

Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner, FH52000 is a corded carpet cleaner, so you are not limited when it comes to runtime. As long as you have electricity in your mains, you have continuous cleaning.

But as you are aware, cordless cleaners limit your reach, but fortunately, it comes with a 22ft cord which is extensive enough to reach all carpet spots.

Besides the long cord, there’s an 8 ft hose.

25ft cord

The Bissell ProHeat is also a corded carpet cleaner, but this time, with a longer 25 ft. power cord.

This is also enough to reach all the stains.

When it comes to the hose, this model has a longer 10ft hose.

Bissell is the winner here, considering it has a longer cord, translating to better reach. 3 feet might be negligible but there are times they count. The 2ft longer hose also means better reach.

12. Warranty and Aftersales
5-year

Hoover SmartWash comes with a 5-year warranty that covers the cleaner in case it develops a problem related to manufacturing. In such cases, the company will repair or replace the unit.

Hoover is known to honor warranties as long as consumers abide by the Terms & Conditions of the warranty. Regarding support, Hoover has plenty of resources in the form of guides and FAQs alongside the user manual.

Last, Hoover has plenty of supplies and replacement parts available at affordable prices.

5-year

Bissell, too, is a trusted brand that offers a generous 5-year warranty. In case your cleaner malfunctions within the first five years of use, it is eligible for repair or replacement as long as the warranty is not voided.

Regarding support, there are plenty of user guides and tutorials alongside the user manual.

Bissell also has readily available supplies, including cleaning formulas and replacement parts.

There is no winner here as both brands come with a 5-year warranty, and support. Replacement parts and supplies are readily available at affordable prices.

13. Maintenance
frequent

Hoover SmartWash requires frequent maintenance. Before using the cleaner, fill the clean water tank and add the cleaning solution (if necessary).

After cleaning, empty the dirty water tank. Besides the tanks, inspect the cleaning head at least twice a week to check whether the brushes have any dirt or tangles.

If dirt and tangling are present, remove the brush, clean it and return it. A replacement is required after 8-12 months of use.

frequent

Bissell is not different in terms of maintenance. It must be filled with clean water before use. The dirty water tank should also be emptied and rinsed.

Another activity is inspecting the brushroll to determine whether there is stuck on dirt or hair tangles that could prevent it from working properly.

The brush needs to be replaced in 8-12 months, depending on usage.

Both models require the same maintenance but Bissell is the better option courtesy of the EZ Clean Brush Roll Cover that can be easily detached to access the brush. It's more practical than Hoover's Removable Nozzle Cover.

Cleaning Tests

Carpet Floor (Hardwood, Laminate, Tiles)

As usual, we conduct thorough tests on all the cleaners we review; Bissell and Hoover were no exception. To give you a glimpse of how they perform in a real household setting, we made messes on a medium pile carpet using pet urine, red wine, coffee, and orange juice. We then left the mess overnight. See how the two performed.

8/10
9/10

Carpet Floor (Hardwood, Laminate, Tiles)

  • Orange juice
  • 95%
  • 97%
  • Red wine
  • 96%
  • 98%
  • Coffee
  • 95%
  • 99%
  • Dog urine
  • 94%
  • 97%

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is my Hoover SmartWash Carpet Cleaner not picking up water?

If your Hoover is not picking up water, make sure the dirty water tank is not full. If this is the case, empty the tank. If the tank is empty and the cleaner still doesn’t pick water, refit the dirty water tank.

FAQ

2. My Hoover carpet cleaner’s brushes are not rotating.

Check the brushes and remove any stuck-on dirt and hair tangles. You might also want to check whether the gears are in order. They may need to be cleaned or replaced.

3. Can you use Bissell ProHeat 2x Revolution Pet Pro Plus as a vacuum?

No. This carpet cleaner can’t replace a carpet vacuum. It is designed to wash carpets only.

Wrapping Up

There you have it, folks, a Hoover SmartWash vs. Bissell ProHeat 2X comparison review. As you have seen, both models are excellent when it comes to cleaning performance, but Bissell is the ultimate winner. It managed to clear stains in just a few passes. What’s more? Bissell has several advantages, including two cleaning modes, a pretreater, and a faster drying time.

Check other comparisons

Floyd

Hi! Which model can you recommend for a family with kids?

Richard Harrison

Thank you very much for your question! In this case we would recommend Bissell ProHeat 2X since this model provides faster drying of wet floors (only 30 minutes vs 60 minutes of the SmartWash) and two modes. Express cleaning is a blessing for parents, especially when you need to clean something immediately.

Tate

How well does Hoover SmartWash cope with upholstery? Is it worth buying only as a floor cleaner?

Richard Harrison

Thank you very much for your question! Hoover SmartWash is absolutely worth buying as a multi-task cleaning device. It copes great with various floors and with upholstery. The set of tools help you clean furniture, shelves, curtains, etc.

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