A Popular Wet-Dry Vacuum Has Been Recalled—Here’s What We Know

Updated: Apr. 13, 2023

Here's what to know about the recalled Bissell Cordless Multi-Surface Wet Dry Vacuum

Bissell is one of the most well-known vacuum brands and the company makes several models that show up on our list of the Best Vacuum Cleaners. Recently, one Bissell wet-dry model is under recall, so you’ll want to check your vacuum to determine if it’s involved in the recall.

What Bissell vacuum was recalled?

The recall is for the Bissell Cordless Multi-Surface Wet Dry Vacuums which include models 2551, 2551W, 25519, 25518 and 2551R. You can find the model number on the vacuum’s sticker label that sits behind the water tank on these models.

The models are all wet-dry vacuums that are a time-saving combo of the best vacuums and best mops.

Why was the Bissell Cordless Multi-Surface Wet Dry Vacuum recalled?

Bissell says in rare instances that the battery management circuit board can overheat and risk a fire. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission issued the recall on Jan. 12 with 66 instances of the vacuum smoking and giving off a burning smell. Five reports include the battery pack catching fire.

How do I know if I have a recalled vacuum?

Household Vacuum Cleaners Pictured in a homegoods aisle of a Target storeMario Tama/Getty Images

If you have a Bissell Cordless Multi-Surface Wet Dry vacuum, you’ll want to check the model number. To do this, remove the water tank to see the product information sticker. The sticker indicates the model number in the center black bar.

The recalled units were sold between January 2019 through November 2022 at Walmart locations. They also sold online at Walmart, Bissell, Kohl’s, Ace Hardware, Costco, QVC, Amazon, Wayfair and Fingerhut. If you purchased between those dates and from a listed vendor, check the label of your Bissell to locate the model number. About 61,000 vacuums are involved in the recall.

What should I do if I have a recalled vacuum?

If you have a recalled Bissell vacuum, you should stop using it right away and remove it from the charging base. Even if your vacuum-mop combo seems to be working fine, it’s important to not use it anymore.

To remedy the problem, you’ll want to get a replacement battery pack free of charge. You can do this either by taking the vacuum to any Bissell authorized service center or scheduling a free in-home repair visit from an authorized service technician. Find your closest service center online by entering your zip code.

You can also call Bissell at 1-855-417-7001 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern Time Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturday to schedule a battery replacement.

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