Pet owners often struggle to keep their homes clean. Pet hair, dander, muddy paw prints, and the occasional accident can all make cleaning more difficult. Two vacuum cleaners, the Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro and the Shark Apex DuoClean, are popular choices for tackling these specific challenges. Each machine has its own strengths and unique features, but which one is better for your home and pet situation? Understanding how they compare in real-world use can help you make a confident decision and avoid costly mistakes.

Both the Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro and the Shark Apex DuoClean are designed to handle pet messes, but they approach cleaning in different ways. The Crosswave is a wet-dry vacuum that can wash and vacuum floors simultaneously, while the Apex DuoClean is a powerful upright vacuum with advanced brushroll technology.

This article will break down their features, performance, pros and cons, and more, to give you a complete, side-by-side look at these two top-rated machines.

Design And Build Quality

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro

The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro stands out because it combines vacuuming and washing in one step. The unit has a slim, upright design, making it easy to store and maneuver. Its build quality feels solid for a wet-dry vacuum, with a thick plastic body and a strong handle. The machine weighs around 11.5 pounds, which is lighter than most traditional vacuums, making it easier to carry between rooms or up stairs.

Key design features include two separate tanks: one for clean water and one for dirty water. This keeps the cleaning solution separate, so you’re always washing your floors with fresh water. The brushroll is designed to tackle pet hair and debris without getting tangled easily, a common problem with pet messes. The controls are conveniently located on the handle, allowing users to switch between hard floors and area rugs quickly.

Shark Apex Duoclean

The Shark Apex DuoClean has a more traditional upright vacuum design. It’s built with a sturdy frame and has a heavier feel, weighing about 17 pounds. While it’s not as lightweight as the Crosswave, its weight gives a sense of durability and robustness. The handle is ergonomic, and the machine can be steered easily thanks to its Advanced Swivel Steering.

A standout feature is the DuoClean Technology, which uses two brushrolls: a soft roller for large particles and a bristle brush for deep cleaning carpets. The vacuum also includes Zero-M Self-Cleaning Brushroll technology, designed to prevent hair wrap—a common headache for pet owners. The Apex can convert into a canister-style vacuum for cleaning stairs and furniture, adding to its versatility.

Build quality matters for pet owners because machines need to withstand frequent, heavy use. While the Crosswave is lighter and easier to move, the Apex feels more rugged and stable during operation.

Cleaning Performance

Hard Floors

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro is especially effective on hard floors like tile, laminate, and sealed wood. It vacuums up debris while also washing the floor, removing sticky messes, muddy paw prints, and pet accidents in a single step. The wet-cleaning function is a big advantage for anyone dealing with pets who track in dirt or have the occasional accident.

Shark Apex DuoClean uses its soft roller to pick up fine dust and large debris on hard surfaces. While it doesn’t wash floors, it does an excellent job of removing surface dirt and pet hair, even from tricky edges and corners. Its suction power is strong, and the bristle brush can pull dirt from grout lines or textured flooring.

Carpets And Rugs

The Apex DuoClean shines on carpets and rugs. Its dual brushroll system digs deep into carpet fibers, pulling up pet hair, dander, and embedded dirt. The strong suction helps remove allergens that can get trapped in carpets, making it a smart choice for homes with lots of carpeted areas.

The Crosswave Pet Pro can clean area rugs, but it’s not designed for thick carpets. It freshens up surface dirt and spills, but for deep cleaning or removing embedded pet hair from carpets, the Apex is more effective. The Crosswave’s brushroll isn’t as aggressive, so it won’t damage delicate rugs, but it also won’t replace a powerful upright vacuum for carpeted rooms.

Pet Hair Removal

Both machines are marketed for pet owners, but their pet hair removal performance differs. The Apex DuoClean is exceptional at removing pet hair from all surfaces. Its self-cleaning brushroll prevents long hair from wrapping around the roller, which is a big time-saver. Even thick clumps of pet hair are no match for the Apex’s suction and brush design.

The Crosswave Pet Pro does a good job on hard floors and low-pile rugs, but it can struggle with large amounts of long hair, especially on carpets. However, the included pet hair strainer in the dirty water tank makes it easy to dispose of collected hair without clogging your sink.

Suction Power

The Shark Apex DuoClean boasts powerful suction, measured at 1350 watts and drawing about 30 kPa of airflow. This strong suction allows it to pick up both fine dust and larger debris in one pass.

The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro has decent suction for a wet-dry vacuum but is not as strong as a full-size upright vacuum like the Apex. It’s optimized for picking up wet messes and light debris, not deep carpet cleaning.

Real-life Example

A family with two large dogs and a toddler noticed that the Crosswave quickly cleaned up muddy paw prints and spilled juice from their kitchen floor. However, they found the Apex more effective for their living room carpet, where pet hair and crumbs accumulated daily.

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Features And Attachments

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro Features

• Two-Tank Technology: Keeps clean and dirty water separate
• Multi-Surface Cleaning: Switches between hard floors and area rugs
• Tangle-Free Brushroll: Reduces hair wrap
• Pet Hair Strainer: Filters hair and debris from dirty water
• On-Demand Solution Trigger: Controls how much cleaning solution is used
• Swivel Steering: Increases maneuverability

Included accessories usually feature a multi-surface brush, trial-size cleaning formula, and cleaning tray for easy maintenance.

Shark Apex Duoclean Features

• DuoClean Technology: Dual brushrolls for carpet and hard floor cleaning
• Zero-M Self-Cleaning Brushroll: Prevents hair wrap
• Powered Lift-Away: Converts to a portable canister for stairs and furniture
• Advanced Swivel Steering: For easy navigation
• HEPA Filter and Complete Seal: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens

Standard attachments often include a crevice tool, pet multi-tool, and an upholstery tool.

Attachment Comparison Table

Here is a side-by-side look at the included attachments and features:

This table highlights how the Crosswave focuses on wet cleaning and simplicity, while the Apex offers more advanced filtration and versatility.

Ease Of Use

Maneuverability

The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro is lighter and easier to move around furniture and tight spaces. Its swivel head allows for smooth turns, making it ideal for kitchens, hallways, and bathrooms where pets often roam.

The Shark Apex DuoClean is heavier, but its advanced swivel steering makes it relatively agile for an upright vacuum. The powered lift-away feature is especially useful for stairs, upholstery, and under furniture. However, moving it up and down stairs can be more challenging due to its weight.

Controls And Setup

Both vacuums are easy to set up out of the box. The Crosswave requires filling the clean water tank and adding cleaning solution. Switching between modes is as simple as pressing a button on the handle.

The Apex’s controls are also intuitive, with a switch for floor type and easy access to attachments. The powered lift-away feature takes a moment to get used to but becomes second nature after a few uses.

Maintenance

The Crosswave Pet Pro needs regular cleaning of the brushroll, tanks, and filter after every use, especially if you clean up wet pet messes. The pet hair strainer is a clever touch that makes cleaning out hair less messy.

The Apex DuoClean requires less frequent cleaning but does need the dustbin emptied and filters washed regularly. The self-cleaning brushroll does reduce the need to cut tangled hair, saving time and frustration.

Cord Length And Reach

The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro has a 25-foot cord, which is sufficient for most rooms but may require unplugging for larger spaces.

The Shark Apex DuoClean offers a longer 30-foot cord, allowing for more continuous cleaning without switching outlets as often. This difference can be significant in larger homes.

Noise Level

Both machines are quieter than some older vacuums, but there is still a noticeable difference. The Crosswave produces a moderate sound when running, mostly due to the wet vacuum function. The Apex is slightly louder, especially on carpet mode, but the difference is not dramatic.

Cleaning Solutions And Filtration

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro

The Crosswave uses Bissell’s specialized cleaning formulas for pet messes and odors. These solutions help break down stains and neutralize smells, leaving hard floors and area rugs fresh. It's essential to use the correct formula to avoid damaging floors or the machine.

The Crosswave does not include HEPA filtration. While it has a washable filter to trap larger debris, it won't capture fine dust or allergens as effectively as a HEPA filter.

Shark Apex Duoclean

The Apex stands out for its HEPA filter and complete seal system, which traps 99.9% of dust and allergens. This is especially important for pet owners with allergies or asthma. The vacuum does not use cleaning solutions, as it’s designed for dry vacuuming only.

Filtration And Cleaning Comparison Table

To clarify the differences in cleaning methods and filtration, see this summary:

Versatility And Floor Type Compatibility

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro

This vacuum excels at cleaning a variety of hard floors, including sealed wood, tile, linoleum, and laminate. It can also be used on area rugs for a light refresh. However, it's not designed for high-pile carpets or delicate surfaces that can't handle moisture.

One non-obvious insight: never use the Crosswave on unsealed wood or untreated floors, as water can seep into cracks and cause damage over time. Also, avoid using it on wool or silk rugs, which can be ruined by water and detergent.

Shark Apex Duoclean

The Apex is suitable for all floor types, including hard floors, low-pile, and high-pile carpets. Its DuoClean system adapts to different surfaces without the need for switching attachments. The vacuum’s lift-away mode makes it easy to clean stairs, upholstery, and even car interiors.

Another insight: The Apex’s soft roller is excellent for picking up fine dust from hard floors, which other vacuums often leave behind. This makes it a good choice for homes with both hard and carpeted floors.

Maintenance And Longevity

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro

Proper maintenance is key to keeping the Crosswave running smoothly. After each use, you should:

• Empty and rinse both the clean and dirty water tanks.
• Remove and wash the brushroll and filter.
• Use the cleaning tray to flush out the system.

The brushroll and filter will eventually need replacement, typically every 6-12 months depending on use. Replacement parts are readily available online.

Shark Apex Duoclean

The Apex requires:

• Emptying the dustbin after every use.
• Washing the HEPA and foam filters every 3 months.
• Checking the brushroll for blockages, though the Zero-M system reduces this need.

The Apex is known for its durability, often lasting 5 years or more with proper care. Replacement filters and brushrolls are also easy to find.

Maintenance Tips

• For both vacuums, check for clogs and wipe down the machine regularly.
• Never use harsh chemicals in the Crosswave; stick to Bissell-approved solutions.
• Store both vacuums in a dry area to avoid mildew or mold growth.

Price And Value For Money

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro

The Crosswave Pet Pro typically costs between $250 and $300. While this is less than many high-end upright vacuums, it's important to factor in the cost of cleaning solutions and replacement parts over time.

Shark Apex Duoclean

The Apex DuoClean usually sells for $350 to $400. This higher price reflects its advanced features, filtration, and versatility. There are no ongoing costs for cleaning solutions, but filters and brushrolls may need replacement every year or so.

Value Comparison Table

Here's a side-by-side look at the value each vacuum offers for pet owners:

Pros And Cons

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro

Pros:

• Vacuums and washes floors at the same time
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Great for hard floors and area rugs
• Pet hair strainer simplifies cleanup
• Affordable initial price

Cons:

• Not effective for deep cleaning carpets
• Requires ongoing purchase of cleaning solutions
• No HEPA filtration
• Not suitable for unsealed or delicate floors

Shark Apex Duoclean

Pros:

• Powerful suction for all floor types
• Self-cleaning brushroll reduces maintenance
• HEPA filtration is ideal for allergy sufferers
• Converts to portable canister for versatile cleaning
• Long cord and robust build

Cons:

• Heavier and bulkier
• Cannot wash floors—vacuuming only
• More expensive upfront
• Brushroll still needs occasional cleaning

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro If:

• Your home has mostly hard floors or a mix of hard floors and area rugs.
• You want to save time by vacuuming and washing in one go.
• Pet accidents or muddy paw prints are common.
• You value easy maneuverability and lighter weight.
• You don’t need advanced filtration for allergies.

Choose Shark Apex Duoclean If:

• You have a lot of carpets or a mix of carpet and hard flooring.
• Deep cleaning and powerful suction are your top priorities.
• Pet hair is a constant issue, especially on upholstery and stairs.
• Allergy control is important (thanks to HEPA filtration).
• You want a machine that lasts for years with minimal hassle.

Credit: www.bissell.com

Common Mistakes Pet Owners Make When Choosing

• Ignoring floor type: Many pet owners forget to match the vacuum to their flooring. The Crosswave is not for high-pile carpets, while the Apex is not a mop.
• Overlooking filtration needs: If allergies are a problem, only a vacuum with HEPA filtration, like the Apex, is effective.
• Not considering ongoing costs: The Crosswave requires special cleaning formulas, which add up over time.
• Assuming all pet vacuums remove odors: The Apex does not neutralize odors; the Crosswave does, but only with the right solution.
• Forgetting about machine weight: The Apex can be too heavy for some users, especially for cleaning stairs or carrying between floors.

User Reviews And Real-world Feedback

Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro

Many users love the Crosswave’s ability to clean up after messy pets in one go. Owners of multiple dogs and cats say it saves time and makes floors look and smell fresh. Some users mention the tanks need frequent emptying in large homes, and that hair can sometimes wrap around the brushroll if not cleaned regularly.

Shark Apex Duoclean

The Apex gets high marks for its suction power and hair removal abilities. Allergy sufferers appreciate the HEPA filter, and families with both pets and kids say it handles everything from crumbs to fur with ease. A few users say the weight is a drawback, especially for older adults or those with mobility issues.

Non-obvious insight: Some pet owners use both machines—Crosswave for weekly hard floor cleaning, Apex for daily carpet and hair pickup—maximizing cleanliness and minimizing effort.

Environmental Impact And Sustainability

Both brands have made strides in creating more eco-friendly products. Bissell offers biodegradable cleaning solutions and encourages users to recycle their used parts. Shark’s HEPA filters are washable, reducing waste over time.

However, the Crosswave’s need for cleaning solutions means ongoing packaging waste, while the Apex’s reliance on electricity and parts can add up over years of use.

Choosing reusable filters, proper disposal of cleaning solution bottles, and regular maintenance can help reduce each machine’s environmental footprint.

Final Recommendation

The right choice depends on your home, your pets, and your cleaning style. The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro is a fantastic time-saver for homes with lots of hard floors and frequent wet messes. It’s lightweight, easy to use, and keeps floors looking clean and fresh.

The Shark Apex DuoClean is unbeatable for homes with carpets, pet hair, and allergy concerns. Its deep cleaning power, self-cleaning brushroll, and HEPA filtration make it a long-term investment for cleanliness and health.

If your budget allows, consider using both machines for different cleaning tasks. For most pet owners, matching the vacuum to your floor type and cleaning needs will deliver the best results. And always check for the latest models and deals from trusted sources like Consumer Reports.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is The Main Difference Between The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro And Shark Apex Duoclean?

The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro can vacuum and wash floors at the same time, making it ideal for cleaning up wet messes on hard floors. The Shark Apex DuoClean is a powerful upright vacuum that excels at removing pet hair and deep cleaning both carpets and hard floors. The Apex also includes HEPA filtration, which the Crosswave lacks.

Can The Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro Be Used On Carpets?

The Crosswave is designed for hard floors and area rugs, not for deep cleaning carpets. It can refresh low-pile rugs but won’t remove deeply embedded pet hair or dirt from thicker carpets. For homes with mostly carpet, the Shark Apex DuoClean is a better choice.

Does The Shark Apex Duoclean Remove Pet Odors?

The Apex DuoClean does not neutralize pet odors, as it doesn’t use cleaning solutions. It removes pet hair, dander, and dust effectively, but if odors are a concern, you may need to use a separate carpet cleaner or deodorizer.

Which Vacuum Is Better For Allergy Sufferers?

The Shark Apex DuoClean is better for allergy sufferers because it features a HEPA filter and a sealed system, trapping 99.9% of allergens and fine dust. The Crosswave does not include HEPA filtration and isn’t recommended for those with severe allergies.

How Often Should I Maintain These Vacuums?

For the Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro, clean the brushroll, tanks, and filter after every use, and replace parts every 6-12 months. For the Shark Apex DuoClean, empty the dustbin after each use and wash the HEPA and foam filters every 3 months. Regular maintenance ensures both machines perform well and last longer.

With a clear understanding of each vacuum’s strengths and weaknesses, you can choose the best one for your pets, your home, and your lifestyle. Clean floors and happy pets are within reach—just pick the machine that fits your needs.