Question 1

i used vinegar in my bissell crosswave and now it's acting weird, is it broken?

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The "weird" behavior you are experiencing—which typically manifests as erratic water flow, a high-pitched whining sound from the pump, or leaking from the base—is caused by the acetic acid in vinegar reacting with the internal components of the 1785A. The CrossWave is engineered with specific rubber gaskets, O-rings, and plastic seals designed for neutral pH cleaning solutions. Vinegar is an acid that degrades these elastomers, causing them to swell, warp, or degrade entirely. When these seals fail, the vacuum loses its prime, meaning the pump can no longer create the necessary suction to pull water from the clean tank into the brush roll. Furthermore, vinegar can cause micro-corrosion on the internal impeller of the water pump. If you notice the machine is running but no water is hitting the floor, or if water is pooling around the motor housing, the vinegar has likely compromised the integrity of the internal fluid path. FIX To attempt to salvage the unit and remove residual acidic buildup, you must perform a deep system flush. Do not add any more cleaning solution during this process. Empty the dirty water tank completely and rinse it with fresh water to ensure no vinegar residue remains in the recovery area. Fill the clean water tank to the "Max" fill line using only hot tap water (approximately 120°F/50°C). Do not use boiling water, as this can warp the plastic tank. Place the machine on a hard floor surface. Power the unit on and hold the water spray trigger for 30 seconds continuously to force water through the pump and out the brush roll. Turn the machine off and let it sit for 10 minutes. This allows any remaining vinegar trapped in the internal lines to soak and loosen. Repeat the spray cycle three more times. If the flow seems restricted, gently tilt the machine forward and backward while spraying to help dislodge any air pockets caused by the pump losing prime. Remove the brush roll and rinse it under a faucet to clear any vinegar-induced residue from the bristles. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Manual Pump Priming: If the pump is whining but no water is flowing, the pump has lost its prime. Remove the clean water tank and use a turkey baster or a small funnel to carefully pour a small amount of water directly into the intake valve where the tank connects to the machine. This eliminates air gaps that the pump cannot overcome on its own. Seal Replacement: If you notice water leaking from the bottom of the chassis, the internal O-rings have likely been eaten away by the acid. You will need to disassemble the outer casing and replace the pump seals. This requires a precision seal kit and is generally recommended for those comfortable with small-component electronics repair. Impeller Cleaning: If the flow is weak, a small piece of degraded seal may be clogging the impeller. You can attempt to flush the system with a mixture of distilled water and a tiny drop of dish soap (which acts as a surfactant) to lubricate the internal lines and push out debris. Professional Pump Replacement: If the pump makes a grinding noise or fails to activate entirely, the acetic acid has corroded the motor windings or the impeller shaft. The water pump assembly must be replaced entirely. HEADS UP Strict Formula Adherence: Only use BISSELL CrossWave formula or plain water. Even "natural" cleaners like lemon juice or homemade soap mixes can cause the same seal degradation as vinegar. Storage Protocol: Never leave water or cleaning solution in the tanks for more than 24 hours when not in use. Standing liquid can lead to biofilm buildup or accelerate the degradation of seals if a non-approved cleaner was used. Warranty Warning: Using vinegar is documented as "improper use." If you send the unit in for repair, technicians can often detect the scent or chemical residue of vinegar, which will void your manufacturer warranty. Filter Maintenance: Ensure the dirty water tank filter is cleaned weekly. If vinegar has caused the filter to harden or shrink, it will allow debris to enter the motor, leading to total machine failure.

Question 2

cleaned my area rug and now my crosswave smells like wet dog, how do i clean the machine itself?

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The "wet dog" odor in your Bissell CrossWave 1785A is caused by the accumulation of organic biofilm and stagnant moisture within the dirty water recovery tank, the internal suction conduit, and the brush roll fibers. When you clean an area rug, the machine pulls up a higher concentration of proteins, skin cells, and pet dander than it does from hard floors. If these particles aren't fully flushed out, they settle in the "dead zones" of the tank and the crevices of the brush roll, where they begin to decompose and grow bacteria. This smell is often exacerbated by the 1785A's internal plumbing. Because the machine uses a vacuum motor to pull liquid through a narrow tube into the recovery tank, a thin layer of sludge can coat the interior of that tube. Even if you empty the tank, the residual moisture trapped in the brush roll and the suction path continues to off-gas, creating that pungent, damp-animal scent every time the motor runs and pushes air through the system. FIX To fully deodorize the machine and remove the bacterial buildup, follow this deep-cleaning sequence: Deep Clean the Dirty Water Tank: Remove the recovery tank and empty it completely. Use a bottle brush or a long-handled scrub brush to scrub the interior walls and the bottom corners. Fill the tank with a mixture of warm water and a small amount of white vinegar or a mild dish soap. Shake vigorously, rinse with hot water, and leave the lid open to air dry completely. Sanitize the Brush Roll: Remove the brush roll by pressing the release tabs on the sides of the brush head. Do not simply rinse it; soak the brush roll in a basin of warm, soapy water for 30 minutes. Use a soft brush to scrub the bristles, removing any embedded hair or rug fibers. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry vertically for at least 4 hours before reinstalling. Flush the Internal Plumbing: Fill the clean water tank with hot tap water (do not exceed 120°F to avoid damaging the seals). Do not add any cleaning solution. Power on the machine and run it over a clean, hard surface for 3-5 minutes. This forces fresh water through the internal pump and flushes out any stagnant residue in the lines. Clean the Filter: Remove the foam filter located at the top of the dirty water tank. Rinse it under high-pressure running water until the water runs clear. Squeeze it out gently; do not wring it. Allow it to dry completely before replacing it, as a damp filter is a primary source of mildew smells. Final Air-Out: After completing the flush, leave the dirty water tank detached and the brush roll area open for 2 hours to ensure all internal moisture has evaporated. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Vinegar Shock Treatment: Fill the clean water tank with a 50/50 mixture of distilled white vinegar and warm water. Run the machine over a small area of hard floor for 2 minutes. The acidity of the vinegar breaks down the alkaline biofilm and neutralizes odors that soap cannot reach. Follow this with a plain water rinse. Enzymatic Cleaner Soak: If the smell persists in the brush roll, soak the bristles in an enzymatic pet odor remover (like Nature's Miracle) for 2 hours. These enzymes specifically break down the protein chains found in pet dander and urine that cause the "wet dog" scent. Replacement Parts: If the odor is emanating from the motor exhaust, the internal filter may be permanently fouled. Replace the foam filter (Part #2032721) and consider replacing the brush roll if the bristles have become permanently stained or matted. Tank Seal Inspection: Check the rubber gasket seal on the dirty water tank. If debris is trapped in the seal, it can create a pocket of rot. Wipe the seal down with rubbing alcohol to sanitize the contact point. HEADS UP Never leave dirty water in the tank: Even for a few hours. The 1785A is prone to rapid bacterial growth; empty and rinse the recovery tank immediately after every single session. Avoid Over-Sudsing: Only use the official Bissell CrossWave formula. Using standard floor cleaners or too much soap creates excess foam that can bypass the filter and enter the motor housing, leading to permanent internal odors. Air-Dry is Mandatory: Always store the machine with the dirty water tank removed and the brush roll area ventilated. Storing it "closed" while damp is the fastest way to create a mildew problem. Rinse After Rugs: Whenever you transition from cleaning a rug to a hard floor, perform a 30-second "clear water flush" to prevent heavy rug debris from settling in the suction tube.

Question 3

bissell crosswave 1785a warranty question - does it cover the brush if it wears out?

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The brush roll on the Bissell CrossWave 1785A is classified as a "consumable" part. Because the bristles are designed to physically abrade against flooring surfaces to remove debris, they naturally degrade over time. This process is categorized as normal wear and tear rather than a manufacturing defect. Consequently, the 3-year limited warranty does not cover the replacement of brush rolls that have worn down through regular use. FIX Since the warranty will not cover a worn-out brush, you must replace the roll manually to maintain cleaning performance. Follow these steps: Power off the unit and unplug it from the wall outlet. Locate the brush roll release mechanism on the underside of the vacuum. Slide the worn brush roll out of the housing. Insert a genuine Bissell replacement brush roll, ensuring it is seated firmly and locked into place. Check the brush roll ends for any tangled hair or debris that may have contributed to uneven wear before installing the new one. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK If your brush roll failed prematurely due to a mechanical defect (such as the drive belt snapping or the brush not spinning despite a new roll), this may be covered under the warranty. To pursue a claim: Gather your original proof of purchase/receipt. Contact BISSELL Consumer Care at 1-800-237-7691 to open a claim. Provide the model number (1785A) and a description of the mechanical failure. HEADS UP To extend the life of your brush rolls and avoid voiding your warranty on the motor, only use Bissell-approved cleaning formulas. Using harsh chemicals or non-approved soaps can degrade the bristles faster and may damage the internal pump, which could lead to a denial of warranty coverage for the entire unit.

Question 4

dirty tank on my bissell crosswave won't click into place, just wobbles

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The "wobbling" effect occurs when the dirty water tank fails to engage the locking lugs on the main chassis. This is typically caused by one of three things: a buildup of dried cleaning solution/debris in the docking tracks, a misaligned gasket preventing the tank from seating fully, or a cracked locking tab on the tank itself. If the tank doesn't "click," the vacuum will often trigger a "Dirty Tank Full" error or fail to create the necessary suction seal, causing the machine to lose power or leak. FIX Clear the Interface: Remove both tanks and use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe the docking area on the machine body. Look for dried soap residue or hair clumps that may be preventing the tank from sitting flush. Inspect the Gasket: Check the rubber seal at the bottom of the dirty tank. If it is pinched, twisted, or displaced, the tank will bounce back up rather than locking in. Ensure it is seated flat. Verify Tab Integrity: Examine the plastic locking tabs on the sides of the dirty tank. Ensure they aren't bent inward or obstructed. The "Firm Press" Technique: Align the tank carefully. Instead of sliding it in, place it vertically and apply firm, simultaneous downward pressure on both the left and right sides of the tank until you hear a distinct audible click. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK If the tank still wobbles after cleaning, the internal plastic locking mechanism is likely sheared or warped. Check for hairline fractures on the tank's side lugs. Because this is a mechanical failure of the plastic, it cannot be repaired with adhesive; you will need to purchase a replacement dirty water tank specific to the 1785A model. HEADS UP Never force the tank into place with excessive violence if it isn't clicking. Doing so can snap the locking pins on the main chassis, which is a much more expensive repair than simply replacing a plastic tank.

Question 5

my crosswave is making a horrible grinding noise, sounds like it's eating rocks

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS The "grinding rocks" sound in a Bissell CrossWave 1785A is almost always caused by a mechanical obstruction trapped between the brush roll and the internal drive housing, or a failure of the brush roll bearings. When a hard object—such as a pebble, a stray screw, or a piece of plastic—gets wedged into the gap between the rotating brush and the plastic chassis, the motor continues to force the rotation, causing the bristles or the roll itself to scrape violently against the interior casing. Alternatively, if no debris is present, the noise is often the result of "bearing burnout." The ends of the brush roll rely on plastic end caps and bearings to spin smoothly. If water or thick cleaning solution penetrates the bearing housing, it strips the lubrication, causing the plastic to grind against the metal drive shaft. You can confirm this by removing the brush roll and attempting to spin it manually; if you hear a high-pitched screech or feel a "catch" in the rotation, the bearing has failed. If the noise only occurs when the machine is powered on, it is likely a debris jam or a stripped drive gear. FIX Follow these precise steps to clear the obstruction and restore the drive system: Power down the unit and disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet. This is critical to prevent the motor from engaging while your fingers are near the brush. Tip the CrossWave onto its rear wheels to expose the underside of the cleaning head. Locate the brush roll release mechanism. Depending on your specific sub-model of the 1785A, you will either pull a release tab or unscrew the brush roll retainer. Slide the brush roll completely out of the housing. Do not just poke at it; remove it entirely to inspect the "track" where the roll sits. Inspect the drive gear (the small toothed wheel at the end of the motor shaft). Check for any chipped teeth or wrapped hair/string that may be creating friction. Use a pair of needle-nose pliers to remove any hair tightly wound around the shaft. Check the brush roll end caps. If you see black plastic shavings or "dust" around the bearings, the roll is worn out and needs replacement. Clear any debris from the suction intake path located directly behind the brush roll. Small rocks often migrate from the brush into the intake throat, creating a rattling sound. Reinsert the brush roll, ensuring it clicks firmly into the drive gear. Test the rotation by spinning it manually with your hand before plugging the machine back in. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Replace the Brush Roll (Part #206022): If the grinding persists despite clearing debris, the internal bearings of the brush roll have likely collapsed. Replace the roll with a genuine Bissell multi-surface brush. Even a small warp in the brush roll shaft can cause it to vibrate and grind against the housing at high RPMs. Inspect the Drive Belt: If the noise sounds like a high-pitched squeal combined with a grind, the drive belt may be slipping or partially frayed. Remove the bottom plate of the cleaning head to inspect the belt for "glazing" or stretching. A worn belt will slip on the pulley, creating a harsh mechanical noise. Clean the Suction Motor Impeller: If the grinding sound is coming from the top of the machine rather than the floor head, a hard object has likely bypassed the filter and entered the vacuum motor impeller. This requires a full teardown of the motor housing to remove the debris. If the motor smells like burning plastic during the grinding, shut it off immediately. Check the Wheel Casters: Occasionally, a pebble becomes lodged in the front swivel wheels. Because the vibration travels through the plastic chassis, it can sound like the motor is grinding. Spin each wheel manually to ensure they rotate 360 degrees without resistance. HEADS UP Avoid Over-Saturating: Never use excessive water or non-approved detergents, as these can seep into the brush roll bearings and accelerate the grinding wear. Pre-Sweep Large Debris: The CrossWave is designed for "wet-dry" messes, but it is not a shop-vac. Large pebbles, metal screws, or heavy gravel should be swept up first to prevent damage to the drive gear. Regular Hair Removal: Once a month, use a pair of scissors to cut hair and threads off the brush roll. Accumulated hair puts extra torque on the motor, which can lead to premature gear failure. Check the Filter: Ensure the dirty water tank filter is clean. A clogged filter increases backpressure, which can cause the motor to run hotter and make the internal components more prone to vibration noise.

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

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. FIX To ensure the longevity of your 1785A and maintain the integrity of the pump, follow these precise steps for liquid management: Empty the clean water tank completely and rinse it with warm water to remove any residue from previous cleaners. 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. 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. Secure the tank firmly into the chassis until you hear a distinct click, ensuring the valve is fully engaged to prevent air leaks. 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.

Question 7

bissell crosswave is leaking water all over my floor when i use it

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSIS Leaking in the Bissell CrossWave 1785A typically stems from one of three root causes: hydrostatic overfill, a compromised tank seal, or a blockage in the suction path. When the clean water tank is filled beyond the "MAX" line, the internal pump forces water into the brush roll area faster than the vacuum can recover it, leading to an immediate overflow of soapy water onto your floor. This is often exacerbated if you are using a thick cleaning solution that creates excessive foam, which bypasses the recovery system. Another common cause is a failure in the airtight seal between the dirty water tank and the main chassis. If the tank is not seated perfectly or if the rubber gasket is pinched or cracked, the vacuum loses its "pull." Without a strong vacuum seal, the water dispensed by the pump isn't sucked back up into the dirty tank; instead, it simply pools under the brush roll and spreads across the floor. You can confirm this by checking if the motor sounds higher-pitched than usual or if you notice a lack of suction at the brush head while the water is flowing. FIX Power down the unit and unplug it from the wall outlet immediately to prevent electrical shorts or motor burnout. Remove both the clean water tank and the dirty water tank. Empty them completely to reset the fluid levels. Inspect the clean water tank for the "MAX" fill line. Refill the tank using only warm water and the official Bissell formula. Fill exactly to the line—do not exceed it by even a quarter-inch, as the agitation of the machine creates air bubbles that can cause overflow. Inspect the rubber gasket (the O-ring seal) at the bottom of the dirty water tank. Wipe it clean with a damp cloth to remove any hair, debris, or dried soap residue that might prevent a flush seal. Ensure the dirty water tank float (the plastic piece that rises as the tank fills) is moving freely. If it is stuck in the "up" position, the machine may think the tank is full and malfunction. Slide the dirty water tank back into the chassis. You must hear a distinct "click" or feel it lock firmly into place. If it is loose, the suction will fail. Reinsert the clean water tank, ensuring the lid is snapped shut tightly. Turn the machine on and test it on a small patch of floor. If water is still pooling, check the brush roll for debris that might be blocking the suction intake. IF THAT DIDN'T WORK Clear the Suction Path: Debris often gets lodged in the intake throat between the brush roll and the dirty water tank. Use a flashlight to look into the suction port. If you see a clump of hair or a piece of plastic, use a pair of long-nose pliers to pull it out. If the path is blocked, the water has nowhere to go but out onto the floor. Check for Tank Cracks: Inspect the plastic walls of both tanks for hairline fractures. These are common if the machine has been bumped or dropped. Even a microscopic crack can break the vacuum seal. If you find a leak, the tank must be replaced; sealing it with tape or glue usually fails due to the vibration of the motor. Deep Clean the Brush Roll: Remove the brush roll and check for embedded debris or "matting" (hair wrapped tightly around the bristles). If the bristles are flattened or clogged with grime, they cannot effectively push water toward the suction intake, causing the water to pool. Inspect the Filter: If your model has a foam filter atop the dirty water tank, ensure it is clean and dry. A saturated or clogged filter restricts airflow, which kills the suction power and results in water being left behind on the floor. HEADS UP Never use dish soap or non-approved detergents in the clean water tank. These create excessive suds that overflow the dirty water tank and leak into the motor housing. Always empty the dirty water tank immediately after every use. Leaving stagnant water and debris in the tank can lead to mold growth on the seals, which degrades the rubber and causes future leaks. When storing the unit, remove both tanks and let them air dry completely. This prevents the gaskets from sticking or warping. Avoid using the "Max" water setting on highly absorbent surfaces like thick rugs until you have confirmed the suction is operating at 100% efficiency.

Question 8

my bissell crosswave 1785a won't turn on at all, just dead

Accepted Answer

DIAGNOSISThe most common cause for a completely dead Bissell CrossWave 1785A is an incomplete power connection. This model uses a specialized plug with a locking ring that must be fully seated and audibly clicked into the vacuum's inlet. If this connection isn't secure, no power reaches the unit. FIXFirst, ensure the power cord is correctly and fully connected. Unplug the cord from both the wall outlet and the vacuum. Inspect the plug and the vacuum's inlet for any visible debris or damage. Align the plug's tabs with the slots on the vacuum's inlet. Push the plug in firmly and steadily until you hear and feel a definitive click. The locking ring should be flush with the vacuum body. Plug the other end into a known-working wall outlet and try the power switch. IF THAT DIDN'T WORKIf a secure connection doesn't restore power, systematically check other points of failure: Outlet Test: Plug another device (like a lamp) into the same wall outlet to confirm it's providing power. Circuit Check: Ensure a household circuit breaker or GFCI outlet hasn't tripped. Internal Fault: The issue may be an internal wiring fault, a failed power switch, or a blown thermal fuse (a safety device that trips if the motor overheats). These components are not user-serviceable. If the outlet is functional, the unit will require professional diagnosis and repair. HEADS UPForcing the plug can break the locking mechanism or damage the electrical pins. Always align it carefully. Do not attempt to disassemble the vacuum to access internal electrical parts, as this is hazardous and will void your warranty. For persistent no-power issues, contact BISSELL Consumer Care at 1-800-237-7691.

Bissell CrossWave All-in-One Multi-Surface Wet Dry Vacuum 1785A

Other Vacuums