Bissell is pulling over a million steam cleaners off the market after reports of burns
The recall follows more than 150 injury reports, some serious, tied to steam releases from loose parts.
At a glance
What matters most
- More than 1 million Bissell steam cleaners are being recalled across the U.S.
- Over 150 injuries have been reported, some involving second-degree burns from unexpected steam bursts.
- The problem occurs when device attachments loosen during use, releasing hot steam.
- Bissell is offering a free fix and urges customers to stop using the recalled models right away.
Across the spectrum
What people are saying
A quick look at how the same story is being framed from different angles.
On the Left
This recall shows why stronger consumer safety rules and proactive oversight are needed. Companies shouldn't wait for hundreds of injuries before fixing a known hazard. Regulators must have more power to mandate faster recalls and hold manufacturers accountable when design flaws put people at risk, especially in everyday household products.
In the Center
Bissell acted within standard protocol by working with the CPSC and offering a remedy, but the number of injuries suggests the problem may have been identified later than it should have been. The situation underscores the importance of timely reporting and clearer warning labels so consumers can make informed choices while using heated appliances at home.
On the Right
While any injury is unfortunate, this appears to be a case of user error in some instances, especially when devices are misused or overfilled. Companies like Bissell should innovate and deliver useful products without being overburdened by regulation. A voluntary recall and free repair kit show the market is working-responding to feedback without government overreach.
Full coverage
What you should know
Bissell is recalling more than 1 million steam cleaning devices sold in the United States after a wave of injury reports linked to sudden steam releases. The problem appears when attachments on the steamers-like nozzles or brushes-loosen during operation, allowing scalding steam to escape and burn users. According to federal safety officials, the company has received 156 reports of injuries, including cases of second-degree burns.
The recall affects several models of Bissell SteamShot and Steam Pocket handheld cleaners sold since 2018. These compact devices are popular for quick cleanups on grout, appliances, and upholstery, but their design may allow parts to detach under pressure. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) said the risk is highest when users apply force or overfill the water tank, though incidents have occurred during normal use.
Bissell is working with the CPSC to notify customers and is offering a free repair kit that includes updated attachments and a locking cap designed to prevent accidental release. The company has set up a dedicated website and hotline for affected users to check their model number and request the kit. Until then, they're urging people to stop using the devices altogether.
Most injuries were reported at home, often on hands and arms, and some required medical treatment. One case involved a child who was burned when a family member's steamer malfunctioned nearby. While no deaths have been reported, the volume and severity of injuries prompted swift regulatory action.
The recall highlights ongoing concerns about consumer appliance safety, especially for tools that combine heat and pressure in compact designs. Safety advocates say product testing should better account for real-world use, where devices may be handled roughly or used by multiple people in a household.
Bissell has not admitted fault but said it's cooperating fully with the recall to protect customers. The company emphasized that the issue affects only specific models and batches, not its full product line. Still, the scale of the recall-one of the largest in the company's recent history-could dent consumer trust.
For now, anyone who owns a Bissell handheld steamer should check the model number online. If it's part of the recall, the safest move is to unplug it, store it out of reach, and request the free fix. Until the repair kit arrives, the company says, it's better to skip the steam and use a cloth and cleaner instead.
About this author
Zwely News Staff compiles multi-source reporting into concise, viewpoint-aware coverage for readers who want context without noise.
Source Notes
Over 1M Bissell steamers recalled after 150+ injuries reported
You should stop using these immediately.
Bissell steamers recalled in response to dozens of 'serious' burn injuries
Bissell recalled 1.7 million U.S. steam cleaners after reports of detaching attachments releasing steam causing over 150 injuries, including a second-degree burn.
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