Bissell has issued a major recall for more than 3 million of its popular steam cleaning products. The action follows dozens of reports of serious burn injuries linked to the devices.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced the recall on April 10, 2026. It covers specific Bissell SteamShot handheld steam cleaners and SteamShot Deluxe models. Data from the CPSC shows the agency received 154 reports of hot water or steam forcefully ejecting from the units. These incidents resulted in 87 burn injuries.
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Scope of the Recall and Specific Models
Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled steamers. The recall involves approximately 3.25 million units sold in the United States and about 122,000 in Canada.
The affected models were sold from April 2012 through December 2024. They include the Bissell SteamShot (models 39N7, 39N7A, 39N7B, 39N7C, 39N7D, 39N7E) and the Bissell SteamShot Deluxe (models 39N8, 39N8A, 39N8B, 39N8C). The model number is printed on a label on the bottom of the unit.
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These steam cleaners were sold at major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon. They were also available through Bissell’s own website. The price range was typically between $30 and $50.
Nature of the Injuries and Official Warnings
The injuries reported to the CPSC are significant. According to the agency’s report, several incidents required hospital treatment for second-degree burns. In one case, a consumer suffered a burn covering 15% of their body.
The problem occurs when the device’s water tank is overfilled or tipped during use. This can cause a buildup of pressure. The pressure then forces hot water or steam to spray from the unit’s nozzle or seams. The spray can happen suddenly and with considerable force.
“Consumers should stop using the recalled steam cleaners right away,” the CPSC stated in its official recall notice. The agency warns that the risk exists even when following the product instructions.
What Consumers Need to Do
Bissell is offering a full refund for the recalled products. Owners should visit the dedicated recall page on Bissell’s website to start the process. The company will provide a prepaid shipping label to return the unit.
After receiving the returned steamer, Bissell will issue a refund in the form of a check or electronic payment. The refund amount will include applicable sales tax. Consumers can also contact Bissell directly by phone for instructions.
This is not Bissell’s first recall for these models. A previous recall in 2023 addressed a similar hazard. That recall offered a repair kit. The new, expanded recall now mandates a full refund and return of all units.
Broader Context for Product Safety
The scale of this recall is notable. Industry watchers note that steam cleaners are marketed as chemical-free solutions for home sanitization. Their popularity increased in recent years. This high volume of units in homes amplifies the potential risk.
Product liability experts point to the 2023 repair attempt as a key detail. The fact that the hazard persisted after a prior fix suggests a fundamental design flaw. This could lead to increased scrutiny from regulators. It may also influence how companies handle similar corrective actions in the future.
For consumers, the immediate step is clear. Check for the model number on any Bissell handheld steamer. If it matches the recalled list, stop using it and seek a refund. The CPSC encourages reporting any incidents directly to SaferProducts.gov.
The refund program is currently active. Bissell has set up the process to handle the return of millions of units. The company has not announced a direct replacement product for the recalled models.
This article was produced with AI assistance and reviewed by our editorial team for accuracy and quality.
