Bissell vs Shark steam mop comparisons usually come down to tank size, steam control, and floor type. If you’re choosing between the Bissell PowerFresh 1940A and the Shark Steam Pocket S3501, here’s the quick answer.
👉 Bissell 1940A is better for larger spaces, tougher messes, pets, and anyone who wants adjustable steam with a bigger water tank.
👉 Shark S3501 is better if you want something lighter, more compact, and slightly more budget-friendly.
You may see the Bissell listed as 1940 or 1940A. They are the same machine in terms of performance — the “A” is simply a retail variation. Steam output, tank size, and features are identical.
Now let’s go deeper.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Bissell PowerFresh 1940A | Shark Steam Pocket S3501 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | ~$70 | ~$60 |
| Heat-Up Time | 30 sec | 30 sec |
| Weight | 5.4 lbs | 4.69 lbs |
| Water Tank | 400 ml | 310 ml |
| Steam Levels | 3 | 1 |
| Floor Types | All sealed hard floors | All sealed hard floors |
| Unique Feature | Fragrance discs | Foldable handle |
When comparing a Bissell vs Shark steam mop, the biggest differences appear in steam intensity and water capacity. Both are corded steam mops. Both heat quickly. Both are safe for sealed hardwood, tile, laminate, and vinyl. But they feel different in daily use.
Bissell PowerFresh 1940A: Who It’s Really For
👉 Check the current price of the Bissell 1940A
If I had to describe the 1940A in one word: capable. This is the one I recommend when:
- You have pets.
- Your kitchen gets messy.
- You clean larger areas at once.
- You want control over steam intensity.
- You don’t want to refill constantly.
What I Like
1. The 400 ml tank makes a real difference.
I can clean my kitchen and hallway without stopping to refill.
2. Three steam levels.
Low for sealed hardwood. Medium for routine cleaning. High for tile and stuck-on spots. That flexibility matters.
3. Stronger steam bursts.
On dried juice or muddy paw prints, it works faster than the Shark.
4. Optional fragrance discs.
Some people love them. Some ignore them. I use them occasionally in high-traffic areas.
What Can Be Annoying
It’s slightly heavier. At 5.4 lbs, it’s not heavy — but compared to the Shark, you feel it during longer sessions. On the highest setting, if you move too slowly, it can leave visible dampness. Steam mops should never leave floors wet.
If your floor stays damp longer than 45 minutes, something is off. I explain proper drying expectations in How Long Floors Should Dry After Cleaning. Because the 1940A has a larger tank and stronger output, you need to avoid overdoing it — especially on hardwood.
Repeated over-wetting isn’t smart for any sealed floor. If you’re concerned about moisture exposure, read Can Too Much Water Damage Floors for a deeper breakdown.
The mop itself is safe. Technique is what matters.
Shark Steam Pocket S3501: Who It’s Built For
👉 Check the current price of Shark Steam Pocket S3501
The Shark S3501 feels lighter and simpler. It’s the one I’d recommend if you say: “I just want something easy.”
What I Like
1. It’s noticeably lighter.
4.69 lbs feels more maneuverable.
2. Foldable handle.
If you live in a smaller home or apartment, this actually matters.
3. One consistent steam level.
No adjusting. No guessing. Just steam.
4. Slightly cheaper.
What Can Frustrate You
The 310 ml tank empties faster. If you have a large open layout, you’ll refill more often than with Bissell.
There’s no adjustable steam. If you want stronger bursts for grout, you don’t get that option. It’s steady — but not aggressive.
Steam Performance in Real Life
Here’s something most comparison articles don’t say: “Steam mops don’t usually create cloudy floors. They reveal existing residue”.
If you steam mop and suddenly notice haze, it’s often leftover cleaner reacting to heat and moisture. That’s why some people think steam caused the issue. It didn’t — it exposed buildup. I explain that fully in Why Floors Get Cloudy After Mopping.
Because the Bissell 1940A has stronger steam bursts, it may reveal residue faster.
The Shark does the same job — just more gently.
Hardwood: Which Feels Safer?
Both are safe for sealed hardwood. But:
- If you’re nervous about moisture → Shark feels calmer.
- If you want stronger cleaning power → Bissell 1940A wins.
On older floors with worn finish, I personally lean toward the Shark.
On newer sealed hardwood with pets? The Bissell handles heavy mess better.
Tile & Grout: Clear Difference
On tile, the Bissell 1940A feels more powerful. The higher steam setting helps lift stubborn grime from grout lines.
The Shark cleans tile well — but it feels more like maintenance cleaning rather than heavy-duty refresh.
If your kitchen sees frequent spills, Bissell makes more sense.
Small Apartment vs Open Floor Plan
This is where the difference becomes obvious.
Small apartment (under 900 sq ft)?
→ Shark S3501
Large kitchen + open living area?
→ Bissell 1940A
The larger tank reduces interruptions. Refilling breaks your cleaning rhythm more than you expect.
Real Decision Scenarios
Let’s simplify it.
🐾 Hardwood + pets
→ Bissell 1940A
Stronger steam handles paw prints better.
🏠 Small apartment
→ Shark S3501
Lighter and easier to store.
💰 Budget under $60
→ Shark S3501
Usually slightly cheaper.
🧼 Large open space
→ Bissell 1940A
Bigger tank = fewer refills.
🪵 Concerned about moisture control
→ Shark S3501
Less aggressive steam output.
🔧 Want adjustable steam levels
→ Bissell 1940A
Three levels give flexibility.
My Honest Verdict
If I had a typical suburban home with pets and mixed flooring? I’d choose the Bissell PowerFresh 1940A.
If I lived in a condo with limited storage and mostly hardwood? I’d choose the Shark S3501.
The difference isn’t dramatic — but it’s noticeable in daily convenience.
Final Call
If you want:
✔ Larger water tank
✔ Adjustable steam
✔ Stronger cleaning power
👉 Go with Bissell PowerFresh 1940A
If you want:
✔ Lighter weight
✔ Compact storage
✔ Lower price
👉 Go with Shark Steam Pocket S3501
Both clean well. The right one depends on your space — not the brand name.
FAQ
Is Bissell or Shark steam mop better for hardwood floors?
Both are safe on sealed hardwood. The Shark S3501 feels safer if you’re nervous about moisture — it has one steady, gentle steam level. The Bissell 1940A is better if you have pets or heavier messes — its three steam levels give you more control.
What is the difference between Bissell 1940 and 1940A?
No performance difference. The 1940A is a retail variation of the 1940. Steam output, tank size, and features are identical. You may see either version depending on where you shop.
Which steam mop is better for small apartments?
The Shark S3501. It’s lighter at 4.69 lbs vs 5.4 lbs, has a foldable handle, and is slightly cheaper. For smaller spaces you won’t miss the larger tank of the Bissell.
Can I use Bissell or Shark steam mop on tile floors?
Yes, both work well on tile. The Bissell 1940A performs better on grout lines because of its stronger high-steam setting. The Shark is better for routine tile maintenance.
