Bissell Vac & Steam Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 6.9/10
Best for: Chemical-free steam cleaning and sanitising of sealed hard floors
Not for: Unsealed wood or carpets, and soaking up spills - it cleans with steam, not a wet mop
Bottom line: A practical steam mop (upright mop) for quick, chemical-free floor cleaning at home.
The Bissell Vac is designed to vacuum and steam clean at the same time, aiming to speed up cleaning on sealed hard floors. The main appeal is one-pass "vac and steam" for sealed hard floor areas, combining dirt pickup and steaming in a single routine. Results still depend on the floor condition and whether the machine is ready to steam in time, so deep restoration may need extra passes.
Key specifications
| Spec | Value Notes |
|---|---|
| Functions | Vac + steam Same time |
| Suitability | Sealed hard floors Multisurface |
Pros
- Upright steam mop
- Chemical-free cleaning and sanitising with just water
- Floors dry quickly after steaming
Cons
- Only for SEALED hard floors - not unsealed wood, waxed floors or carpet
- Washable pads are the ongoing cost and need regular cleaning
- Needs a power socket and tank refills on big jobs
Cleaning Performance
Cleaning performance from this steam mop is driven by the way it combines vacuum pickup with steam delivery to sanitise sealed hard floors. In use, it performs both actions in one pass, lifting fine dust, grit and small particles before the steam phase takes over. For the best results, the cleaning pace matters because stopping interrupts how much debris is carried from the floor instead of reaching the dust bin. It is intended for multisurface use on sealed hard floor areas.
Steam, Heat-Up and Water Tank
With its combined vacuum and steam function, the Bissell is designed to deliver steam quickly after heating begins, as it is "steam ready in 30s". That means the user starts the unit, waits for the steam phase to be ready, and then moves the upright cleaner over sealed hard floors so vacuum pickup and steam sanitising happen in one pass. Once steaming starts, pausing movement can reduce consistency, as the steam output is tied to readiness and continuous use. As with any steam mop, steam cleaning uses HOT STEAM generated from water, not cleaning solutions, so sealed floor compatibility and technique should be confirmed against the floor manufacturer's advice.
Floor Types and Pads
Because the Vac & Steam combines vacuum pickup with steaming in one pass, the chosen floor type and pad setup directly affect cleaning performance. It is intended for sealed hard floors, including tile, sealed laminate and sealed wood. Before steaming, vacuum up loose debris. Keep the pad moving slowly enough to avoid pooling dampness, and allow it to dwell briefly on sticky areas, as grime can slow release. Pads that become saturated may leave streaks, so pad rinsing and replacement habits matter.
Type: Upright Mop, Handheld or Multi
For the steam mop, the "multi" design works like an upright steam mop with a combined vacuum function, rather than a handheld steamer. It is intended to clean sealed hard floors in one pass by combining steam cleaning with vacuum pickup, so debris and dampness are handled together. This setup is suited to everyday messes because it reduces the number of separate steps required. Pads or attachments are not described here.
Weight, Cord and Handling
The Bissell is designed to be used as an upright steam mop, with weight, cord reach and control managed in a standing position rather than as a handheld device. In use, the cleaner is guided across sealed hard floors using both hands, while the base moves back and forth. For consistent coverage, short passes help, with slight overlap to reduce missed strips. Cord management can also matter when manoeuvring around furniture and close to edges, as turning the body reduces tugging.
Who Is This Steam Mop For?
Who is the steam mop and Steam 1977E for? It suits people who want an upright steam mop that also vacuums, for cleaning sealed hard floors where dust and sticky residue are both concerns. It is designed as a steam and vacuum combined machine, and it claims to be steam ready in 30 seconds, supporting quicker start times. Steam is part of the cleaning approach, and it is less suitable if the flooring is not sealed or if other surfaces need attachments. Always check the floor manufacturer's advice before use, particularly for wood, waxed surfaces and other unsealed floor types.
Where to Buy in the UK
Finding a place to buy the Bissell Vac in the UK helps narrow down what is available to match its intended use: vacuuming and steaming at the same time on sealed hard floors. For purchasing, buyers typically check Amazon UK, John Lewis, Currys, AO, and Argos, along with online marketplaces that list the 1977E model. Availability can vary, so it helps to confirm the exact "Vac & Steam, Steam Cleaner and Vacuum Cleaner At the Same Time" description before ordering. Shoppers should also compare delivery terms and return policies, since stock levels can change quickly and accessories may be listed separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bissell worth it?
For chemical-free cleaning and sanitising of sealed hard floors, the steam mop lifts grime and kills most germs with hot steam. Check the current Amazon UK price, as steam mops go on deal often.
Is the Bissell an upright mop, handheld or multi-cleaner?
The steam mop is an upright steam mop, built to steam-clean sealed hard floors quickly and easily.
Do steam mops actually work?
Yes - they heat water into hot steam that loosens dirt and sanitises sealed hard floors without chemicals, killing most household germs. They're for cleaning sealed floors, not for soaking up spills like a regular mop, and the floor dries quickly afterwards.
What floors can you use this steam mop on?
The Bissell suits sealed hard floors - sealed laminate, tile, vinyl and sealed hardwood. Avoid unsealed wood, waxed floors and damaged sealing, as steam and moisture can get into gaps. Always check your floor manufacturer's advice first.
Do you need cleaning solution with the Bissell Vac?
No - that's the point of steam cleaning: the steam mop uses only tap water turned to steam, so there are no chemicals or solution to buy (some models offer optional scent discs). It's a cheaper, more natural way to clean and sanitise floors.