Bissell 1806 vs. 1940 Steam Mop Comparison
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Bissell is one of the most reliable steam mop brands available. Two of its most popular models, the Bissell 1806 and 1940, are often compared with one another because of their similarities.
But, what is the difference between Bissell steam mop 1806 and 1940?
The biggest difference between the Bissell 1806 and 1940 steam mop is the SpotBoost Brush on the 1806. By stepping down on the pedal on the back of the machine, you can lift up the SpotBoost Brush on the Bissell 1806 to clean tough, sticky messes.
That said, there is more to this comparison than it meets the eye, simply because both steam mops come with excellent cleaning features. In this post, we will compare the Bissell 1806 and the 1940 steam mop to help you decide which one is more suitable for you. Let’s get started.
Bissell Steam Mop 1806 vs. 1940
Before we move on, quick disclaimer.
My goal of writing this comparison review is to make your life easier and help you choose one. Since I own both the Bissell 1806 and 1940, I know firsthand what to look for and what features work best.
Unlike most reviewers who list down all the features found on Amazon, I’ll do my best to cut to the chase and show you what are the most important differences between the two.
I promise you, by the end of this post, you should be able to choose one.
Key Differences Between Bissell 1806 and 1940
The similarities between the Bissell 1806 and 1940 are obvious. Both steam mops have similar designs and are designed for sealed floors, including hardwood, tile, linoleum, and vinyl. Additionally, both steam mops can heat water in just 30 seconds.
Similarities aside, it is the differences that matter. I have both the Bissell 1806 and 1940 steam mop models, and here are all of the differences I am able to spot:
- Bissell 1940 has more steam levels - The Bissell 1806 has two steam levels (LOW STEAM and HIGH STEAM), while the Bissell 1940 has three steam levels (LOW STEAM, MEDIUM STEAM, and HIGH STEAM).
- Bissell 1806 has longer power cord length - The Bissell 1940 has 23 feet of power cord length, while the Bissell 1806 has 25 feet of power cord length.
- Bissell 1806 has more water tank capacity, but it is not removable - The Bissell 1940 holds 15 oz. of water in its tank and is removable to fill (and empty) at the sink. On the other hand, Bissell 1806 holds 19 oz. of water but the tank is built into the mop. As a result, you must fill the Bissell 1806 water tank using the provided water cup and you have to turn the mop upside down over the sink if you need to empty the water tank.
- Difference in location of the fragrance discs - On the Bissell 1940, the fragrance discs fit into a mesh pocket on the inside of the mop pad. On the Bissell 1806, the fragrance discs can either go into the mesh pocket on the inside of the mop pad or into a tray located on the top of the mop foot.
- Bissell 1806 has a SpotBoost Brush feature - The best way to describe the SpotBoost Brush is a removable "wand" with the brush on the end. It is used to clean grout, crevices, and sticky messes.
- Bissell 1940 has a carpet glider - A carpet glider is an attachment that you clip onto the mop head so you can push the steam mop across carpet. While you can buy it separately, the Bissell 1940 is one of the rare steam mops that come with a carpet glider.
SpotBoost Brush on the Bissell 1806
Unlike the Bissell 1940, the Bissell 1806 steam mop features the SpotBoost Brush.
To use the SpotBoost Brush, step down on the pedal on the back of the machine. Then, lift up to expose the SpotBoost Brush. You can use the brush to clean tough, sticky messes and crevices with the brush.
Like the video above, using the SpotBoost Brush is that simple.
While the Bissell 1940 steam mop does not have the SpotBoost Brush feature, it does have the removable Easy Scrubber. You can quickly clean sticky messes, grout, crevices by pressing the Easy Scrubber with your foot and locking it into position.
However, I rarely ever use either the SpotBoost Brush on my Bissell 1806 or the Easy Scrubber on my Bissell 1940 steam mop because I rarely have anything on my floors that needs scrubbing.
Since I have no kids running around the house leaving sticky messes, I don't find the removable wand with the SpotBoost Brush appealing or necessary for my needs.
That said, you may have different circumstances than I do.
So if you find yourself needing a steam mop that has the ability to effortlessly clean sticky messes as well as cleaning crevices, you should buy the Bissell 1806 due to its SpotBoost Brush.
One thing I do find useful is the removable water tank the Bissell 1940. It offers the benefit of easy filling and emptying. By far, it is easier to use my Bissell 1940 than my Bissell 1806 just because of this removable water tank. In fact, I would not hesitate to buy another one whenever mine finally dies.
Final Verdict
WINNER: Bissell 1940
- The removable water tank of the Bissell 1940 is easier to work with.
- Bissell 1940 has mores steam levels.
- Bissell 1940 is cheaper than Bissell 1806.
- Clean and sanitize sealed hard floors without the use of harsh chemicals; Eliminates 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria with the natural power of steam
- Power through tough, sticky messes with the flip down easy scrubber
- Choose from high, medium, or low steam based on your cleaning needs with the smart set digital steam control
Both steam mops are great but if I have to choose one, I would go for the Bissell 1940 because of its removable water tank. Although it has less water capacity, the ability to remove it from the unit is a game changer.
Additionally, the Bissell 1940 has three steam levels, compared to the Bissell 1806 which only has two.
Sure, the Bissell 1806 comes equipped with the SpotBoost Brush feature, longer power cord length, and more water tank capacity, but the non-removable water tank is a constant hassle in my opinion.
Not only do you need to fill the Bissell 1806 water tank using the provided water cup, but you also need to turn the mop upside down over the sink if you need to empty the water tank.
And the best part is, the Bissell 1940 is slightly cheaper than the Bissell 1806.
I hope that makes it easier for you to choose between the two. Coming from someone who has both steam mops, I would go for the Bissell 1940.
Ryan O'Connor
I write about house cleaning and vacuum cleaners. For me, nothing is more important than a clean environment to ensure both a healthy and happy life. Learn more.