can i use my own floor cleaner in the bissell crosswave 1785a?

Diagnosis

The Bissell CrossWave 1785A utilizes a high-pressure pump system designed to dispense a precise volume of liquid onto the brush roll while simultaneously vacuuming debris and liquid into a separate dirty water tank. The root cause of the "approved solution" restriction is the chemical composition of the liquid, specifically the presence of surfactants. Most generic floor cleaners, dish soaps, and laundry detergents are formulated to create high levels of foam (sudsing) to lift dirt. When these high-foaming agents are processed through the 1785A's motor and vacuum intake, the foam expands rapidly inside the dirty water tank and the internal piping. This creates an air lock in the pump or, more critically, allows foam to bypass the seals and enter the vacuum motor. Once foam enters the motor housing, it can cause permanent electrical shorts or mechanical failure. You can confirm if your current solution is too sudsy by shaking a small amount in a jar; if the foam takes more than a few seconds to dissipate, it is dangerous for this machine.

How to Fix It

To ensure the longevity of your 1785A and maintain the integrity of the pump, follow these precise steps for liquid management:

1. Empty the clean water tank completely and rinse it with warm water to remove any residue from previous cleaners.
2. Fill the tank with warm tap water, ensuring the temperature does not exceed 140°F (60°C) to avoid warping the plastic housing or damaging the internal seals.
3. If using the official Bissell CrossWave formula, add exactly 2 ounces (approximately 60ml) of the solution to the tank. Do not exceed this amount, as over-concentrating the formula can lead to sticky residue on your floors.
4. Secure the tank firmly into the chassis until you hear a distinct click, ensuring the valve is fully engaged to prevent air leaks.
5. Run the machine on the "Low" setting for the first 30 seconds to prime the pump and ensure liquid is flowing steadily to the brush roll before switching to "Max" mode.

If That Didn't Work

If you have already used a non-approved cleaner and are experiencing poor suction or a "spitting" sound from the pump, try these recovery steps:

• The Defoaming Flush: Fill the clean water tank with plain, hot tap water and no soap. Run the machine over a small area of the floor for 5 minutes. This dilutes the remaining surfactants in the internal lines and flushes out the foam buildup.
• Dirty Tank Purge: Empty the dirty water tank immediately if you see foam reaching the top of the tank. Rinse the tank with cold water and scrub the filter mesh to remove any soap films that might be restricting airflow.
• Pump Air-Lock Clear: If the machine is running but no water is coming out, the pump may have an air lock caused by foam. Remove the clean tank, hold the trigger for 10 seconds to clear the line, then re-insert the tank and try again.
• Brush Roll Deep Clean: Non-approved cleaners often leave a tacky residue on the brush roll. Remove the brush roll and soak it in a basin of warm water and a tiny drop of white vinegar to strip away the chemical buildup before reinstalling.

Heads Up

• Avoid Vinegar and Bleach: Never put white vinegar or bleach in the tank; these acids and bases can degrade the rubber gaskets and O-rings in the 1785A, leading to leaks.
• Pine Oil Warning: Do not use pine-based cleaners (like Pine-Sol) as the oils can clog the fine spray nozzles and leave a permanent oily film on hard floors.
• The "Suds" Rule: If you see bubbles entering the dirty water tank, stop the machine immediately. This is a sign that your solution is too sudsy and will eventually kill the motor.
• Post-Use Maintenance: Always empty both tanks and rinse the dirty water tank after every single use to prevent mold growth and chemical crystallization in the pump.