Steam mops are a popular cleaning tool for hard floors like tile, wood, and linoleum. They use the power of steam to sanitize floors and remove stuck-on messes.
Two of Bissell’s top models are the 1940a PowerFresh and the 19405 PowerFresh Lift-Off Pet. But which one should you choose? Here is an in-depth comparison of the Bissell 1940a vs 19405 steam mops.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Features | Bissell 1940a | Bissell 19405 |
| Steam Control | Variable | Variable |
| Water Tank Size | 13 oz | 15 oz |
| Heat-up Time | 30 secs | 30 secs |
| Steam Time per Tank | ~15 mins | ~15 mins |
| Swivel Head | Yes | Yes |
| Scrubber Brush | Yes | Yes |
| Washable Pads | 2 microfiber | 2 microfiber |
| Cord Length | 23 ft | 23 ft |
| Weight | 5 lbs | 6 lbs |
| Lift-Off Pod | No | Yes |
| Handheld Steamer | No | Yes |
| Pet Stain Tray | No | Yes |
Overview of the Bissell 1940a PowerFresh
The Bissell 1940a PowerFresh steam mop is a lightweight, easy-to-use option for cleaning sealed hard floors. It has a triangle-shaped mop head that swivels to get into corners and along baseboards.
Some key features and specs:
- Steam-on-demand trigger – Steam only releases when the trigger is pulled for safety
- 23 ft power cord – Gives an extended cleaning radius
- Removable water tank – Easy to fill and empty as needed
- Variable steam control – Adjusts steam output for different cleaning needs
- 2 microfiber pads included – Washable and reusable soft pads
- Heat-up time: 30 seconds – Provides quick steam when needed
- Weight: 5 lbs – Lightweight and easy to maneuver
The 1940a only uses water to generate steam so no chemicals or cleaning solutions are required. It heats up to temperatures around 212°F to help sanitize floors as you clean.
The mop head has a built-in scrubber pad to help break up messes. And the soft microfiber pads are safe for all sealed hard floor types.
Overview of the Bissell 19405 PowerFresh Lift-Off Pet
The Bissell 19405 PowerFresh Lift-Off Pet steam mop has the same great steaming power but with some extra features for pet homes.
Key features and specs:
- Lift-off pod – Detaches to become a handheld steamer
- Pet stain tray – Removes spots and odors
- Febreze steam – Leaves a fresh scent as you clean
- Swivel steering – Easily maneuvers around furniture
- 2 microfiber pads – Soft and gentle on floors
- 23 ft cord – Provides extended cleaning reach
- Removable tanks – Easy to fill and empty as needed
- Variable steam – Adjusts output for each cleaning task
- Heat-up time: 30 seconds – Quickly ready when it’s time to mop
The lift-off pod is a notable difference between the two models. This allows you to detach the mop head to use as a handheld steamer for cleaning countertops, appliances, windows, and other areas.
The pet stain tray is another unique feature. It has a built-in odor eliminator to remove stains and smells that pets can leave behind.
Also Read: Comaprison Between Bissell 2806 and 2987
Key Differences Between Bissell 1940a vs 19405 Steam Mop
- Steam Capabilities
When it comes to steaming power, the Bissell 1940a and 19405 are pretty equal. They both use hot steam sanitizes floors without the need for added chemicals.
Some key similarities:
- Reach temps up to 212°F
- 30 second heat-up time
- On-demand steam trigger
- Variable steam control
- Swiveling triangle mop heads
- Washable microfiber pads
The amount of steam time per full water tank is around 15 minutes for both models. And the steam output can be adjusted based on the type of mess you’re cleaning up.
One advantage of the 19405 is the detachable handheld steamer. This gives you more versatility to steam small areas and surfaces beyond just floor mopping.
- Ease of Use
Both the 1940a and 19405 earn top marks for being easy to assemble, fill, use, and store. They have lightweight designs that are comfortable to push and pull across floors.
The water tanks are removable for quick filling and emptying. And the fast 30 second heat-up time means you get steam when you need it.
The 19405 does have a slightly larger water tank at 15 oz compared to 13 oz. But both provide around 15 minutes of steam time before needing a refill.
In terms of maneuverability, the two are closely matched. The triangular mop heads with swivel steering make it very easy to get into corners and around furniture legs.
The 19405 may have a slight edge for pet homes since the lift-off pod lets you quickly switch to a handheld steamer. This makes it easier to target pet stains and odors in hard to reach areas.
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- Cleaning Performance
When it comes to cleaning polished hard floors, the 1940a and 19405 are top-tier performers. The hot steam helps loosen and dissolve all types of dried-on messes from food spills to footprints.
And the microfiber pads lift and trap dirt while the scrubber brush breaks up stuck-on gunk. Owners praise both models for leaving floors looking shiny and clean, not just damp.
The 19405 does offer an advantage for pet homes. The integrated pet stain tray helps remove leftover odors and stains from accidents. So this is the better choice if you routinely clean up after pets.
Some other similarities:
- Handle everyday messes like dirt, grease, and grime
- Sanitize floors with hot steam
- Safe for sealed hard floors
- Washable microfiber pads
- No chemicals required
So for general floor cleaning, the 1940a and 19405 offer comparable results. The 19405 just has some bonus features to further eliminate pet stains and odors.
Also Read: Comparison Between Bissell CleanView and PowerClean
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
For most homes, the Bissell 1940a PowerFresh is the best option. It cleans floors exceptionally well at an affordable price point. The 19405 PowerFresh Lift-Off Pet does have bonus features for pet owners, but comes at a higher price.
Yes, BISSELL steam mops can help sanitize and disinfect floors when used properly. The hot steam reaches temperatures up to 212°F which can kill bacteria and germs without harsh chemicals. Just be sure to use the steam mop head to slowly glide over the floor to allow full contact.
No, you should not use any cleaning solutions or chemicals in a Bissell PowerFresh steam mop. The steam alone is effective at cleaning and disinfecting floors. Adding chemicals can damage the mop. Always use just water in the tank per manufacturer guidelines.
BISSELL steam mops like the PowerFresh 1940a and 19405 reach temperatures around 212°F at maximum steam setting. This allows the hot steam to sanitize floors. Lower steam settings will produce less heat. Always start on the lowest setting first for safe use on various floor types.
Also Read: Comparison Between the Bissell SteamShots
Final Thought
So is the 1940a or 19405 the better steam mop? It depends on your cleaning needs:
- For general floor cleaning, the Bissell 1940a provides excellent results at a more budget-friendly price point.
- For homes with pets, the Bissell 19405 is worth the extra investment. The lift-off pod and pet stain tray provide added versatility and odor-removal.
You can’t go wrong with either model. Both make floor cleaning easier thanks to the chemical-free steam. They sanitize floors while refreshing the look of tile, wood, and other sealed hard surfaces.
If your priority is pet messes and stains, opt for the 19405. But for reliable everyday floor cleaning, the 1940a gets the job done.