If you share your home with a furry companion, you know the struggle is real. It’s a constant, almost Sisyphean task: you clean, you vacuum, you dust, and within hours, a new layer of pet hair and dander seems to materialize out of thin air, settling on every conceivable surface. For our household, with two dogs—one of whom sheds enough to knit a whole new dog each week—it felt like we were fighting a losing battle. The dust bunnies weren’t just bunnies; they were dust mammoths. This isn’t just an aesthetic issue; for family members with allergies, this constant barrage of microscopic dander can turn a comfortable home into a source of sneezing, itchy eyes, and respiratory discomfort. We knew our old, wheezing vacuum wasn’t cutting it. We needed a specialized tool, a machine built from the ground up to tackle not just the visible fur, but the invisible allergens that were impacting our quality of life.
- Every Purchase Saves Pets. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- Lift-Off Technology. Clean pet hair anywhere with the removable, portable cleaner. On-Board Pet Tools. 2-in-1 Dusting Brush + Crevice Tool and Pet TurboEraser Tool store right on the machine.
What to Consider Before Buying an Upright Vacuum Cleaner
An upright vacuum cleaner is more than just an appliance; it’s a key solution for maintaining a clean, healthy, and comfortable living environment. Its primary benefit lies in its sheer power. Designed for deep cleaning, uprights excel at agitating carpet fibers to dislodge and extract deeply embedded dirt, pet dander, and allergens that lighter vacuums simply skim over. With wider cleaning paths, they cover large areas more efficiently, making them a cornerstone of any serious home cleaning arsenal. The combination of powerful suction and a motorized brush roll makes them particularly effective on the vast carpeted landscapes common in many homes. We’ve found that having a reliable upright is non-negotiable for anyone serious about deep cleaning.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing a significant cleaning challenge. This includes pet owners battling constant shedding, families with allergy or asthma sufferers who need superior air filtration, and those with large, carpeted homes. If you’ve ever vacuumed a rug only to feel it still isn’t truly clean, you are the target audience. However, it might not be the best fit for everyone. Those living in small apartments with exclusively hard flooring and limited storage space might find a full-size upright cumbersome. For them, a lightweight stick vacuum or a canister model might offer more practical maneuverability. But for deep-down carpet clean, the power of an upright remains unmatched.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Filtration System: For allergy sufferers, this is paramount. Look for vacuums with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter. Even better is a “sealed system,” which ensures that all air drawn into the vacuum passes through the HEPA filter before being exhausted. This prevents tiny allergen particles from leaking back into your room, which is a common issue with unsealed designs. The Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA features such a system, making it a strong contender for health-conscious households.
- Performance on Multiple Surfaces: A modern home rarely has just one type of flooring. A great upright vacuum needs to transition seamlessly from deep-pile carpet to low-pile area rugs and onto hardwood or tile without losing suction or scattering debris. Look for features like adjustable brush roll height or a brush roll on/off switch to protect delicate hard floors while still providing deep agitation for carpets.
- Maneuverability & Weight: Upright vacuums have a reputation for being heavy and clunky. While power often comes with weight, innovations like swivel steering have dramatically improved maneuverability. Consider the vacuum’s weight (around 15 lbs is average) and whether you’ll be comfortable pushing it around and potentially carrying it up and down stairs. Features like a “lift-off” canister can provide a hybrid solution, offering full power with portable convenience.
- Tools & Attachments: The main vacuum head can’t clean everything. Your vacuum’s utility is significantly enhanced by its included tools. A crevice tool, dusting brush, and an upholstery tool are standard. For pet owners, a specialized powered or turbo pet tool for cleaning stairs and furniture is an absolute game-changer. Ensure the onboard tool storage is convenient and the hose has adequate reach.
Making the right choice means balancing raw power with everyday usability to find a machine that truly fits your home’s unique cleaning needs.
While the Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Easily clean around furniture and other obstacles with Swivel Steering
- Upgraded Cyclone System: The Eureka PowerSpeed is now upgraded with new cyclone technology to handle larger debris, smaller dirt, and even microscopic dust.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- Light as It Is Capable: At just 7.7 lb, this canister-style upright glides across hard floors and low-pile carpets without strain, ideal for multi-level homes or small-space living.
First Impressions: Unboxing the Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA
Pulling the Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA from its box, the assembly was refreshingly straightforward. In a world of confusing diagrams and tiny screws, Bissell has nailed the user-friendly setup. A few satisfying clicks were all it took to connect the handle and the main body; no tools were required, and we were ready to go in under five minutes. The vibrant teal colour is a nice departure from the monotonous grey and black of many appliances. At 15.7 pounds, it has a reassuring heft without feeling overly burdensome. It feels solid and well-constructed, especially the main canister and handle. The swivel steering felt immediately fluid as we rolled it out of the kitchen. Our initial thought was that it strikes a compelling balance—it feels substantial enough to house a powerful motor, yet nimble enough not to make cleaning feel like a workout. Compared to some premium competitors that can feel overly complex, the Bissell’s design is intuitive, with clearly labelled buttons for power, brush roll control, and canister release. It made us eager to plug it in and witness its performance firsthand, and you can explore its user-friendly design and features right here.
What We Like
- Truly astounding suction power that pulls dirt from deep within carpets
- HEPA Sealed Allergen System noticeably improves air quality
- Versatile Lift-Off canister is brilliant for stairs and above-floor cleaning
- One Touch Easy Empty system is genuinely clean and effective
- Excellent value for the level of performance and features offered
Drawbacks
- The “Tangle-Free” Brush Roll claim is not entirely accurate for long hair
- Some user reports raise concerns about long-term durability and motor life
- Can struggle and shut off on very thick, high-pile rugs
Performance Deep Dive: Putting the Bissell 2852C To the Ultimate Test
An upright vacuum lives and dies by its ability to clean. Features and design are secondary to one fundamental question: does it suck? In the case of the Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA, the answer is an emphatic, almost shocking, yes. We put this machine through its paces across a variety of surfaces and challenges in a real-world home environment plagued by pet hair, dust, and daily messes.
Raw Suction Power & Deep Cleaning Performance
Our first test was the main living room area rug—a medium-pile 8’x10’ battlefield where our golden retriever loves to lounge. We had vacuumed this rug just two days prior with our older, well-known brand vacuum. We honestly didn’t expect to see much in the canister. We were wrong. The moment we switched the Bissell on and pushed it across the rug, we could feel the 7-amp motor pulling the vacuum down into the carpet pile, a sensation of genuine deep cleaning. The bright LED headlights illuminated dust and hair we hadn’t even seen. After just a few passes covering the entire rug, we stopped and looked at the 1-liter dustbin. It was nearly half full of fine dust, dander, and a disturbing amount of dog hair. It was both disgusting and deeply satisfying. This experience mirrored that of numerous users, one of whom noted, “After vacuuming the house with my Dyson, I decided to test the new Bissell… Looking at the pics, this is what the Bissell pulled out of a 8’x10’ area rug.” We can confirm this is not an exaggeration. The sheer volume of debris this machine extracts from a seemingly clean carpet is its single most impressive trait. It fundamentally changed our perception of what “clean” meant for our floors. The wide 13-inch cleaning path also made quick work of larger rooms, reducing the number of passes needed to get the job done.
The Lift-Off Canister: True Versatility in Action
One of the standout features of the Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA is its Lift-Off technology. With the press of a button, the main motor and dustbin assembly detaches from the floor head, transforming the upright into a portable canister vacuum. This is where the vacuum’s utility truly expands beyond the floor. We immediately took the canister to our carpeted staircase, a notoriously difficult area to clean with a traditional upright. Paired with the Pet TurboEraser Tool, the experience was transformative. The tool’s spinning brush roll made short work of the hair ground into the corners of each step. The canister itself is light enough to carry in one hand while operating the hose with the other, eliminating the dangerous balancing act of trying to prop a full-sized vacuum on a narrow stair. We then used the 2-in-1 Dusting Brush and Crevice Tool to tackle baseboards, ceiling fan blades, and the crevices of our microfiber couch. The suction remained powerful and consistent through the hose. However, we did notice a point of friction mentioned by one user: the hose can feel a bit stiff and unwieldy, sometimes causing the lightweight canister to tip over if you pull too hard. It’s a minor ergonomic issue but one to be aware of. Despite this, the sheer convenience of this portable deep-cleaning power is a massive advantage for whole-home cleaning.
Allergy Defense: The HEPA Sealed Allergen System
For our family, the “Allergen” part of this vacuum’s name was a key selling point, and we were keen to see if it made a tangible difference. Many vacuums have HEPA filters, but not all have a sealed system. The difference is crucial. A sealed system ensures that no air escapes through cracks or poorly sealed joints in the vacuum’s body before it passes through the filter. This means the air exhausted back into your room is genuinely cleaner, trapping 99.97% of dust and allergens down to 0.3 microns. During and after vacuuming, we noticed a distinct lack of that dusty, “just-vacuumed” smell that often accompanies cleaning. The air felt lighter and cleaner. One user, struggling with allergies in a carpeted bedroom, was skeptical but found, “Boy, was I wrong. The difference in air quality after using this is so palpable.” We wholeheartedly agree. Over a week of testing, we experienced a noticeable reduction in morning sniffles and general stuffiness. For anyone with asthma or allergies, this feature alone could justify the purchase, moving the vacuum from a cleaning tool to a genuine wellness appliance. Emptying the canister with the One Touch Easy Empty system, which spools hair away from the filter, further minimizes contact with the collected dust and dander.
The “Tangle-Free” Brush Roll: A Contentious Reality
Perhaps the most debated feature is the Tangle-Free Brush Roll. Bissell designed it to actively prevent hair from wrapping around the bristles, a chronic problem for pet owners. In our testing, the results were mixed, reflecting the divided opinions we saw in user feedback. On shorter dog hair and general debris, it worked remarkably well. We checked the brush after several uses and found it significantly cleaner than any previous vacuum we’ve owned. However, when it encountered long human hair, the performance was less perfect. While it did reduce the severity of wrapping, some longer strands did inevitably get caught. This aligns with one user’s frustration: “We’ve been using it for a week. It is not tangle free!!!”. More concerning was a separate report from a user who stated that heavy hair wrap caused friction, a plastic melting smell, and eventual part failure. While we did not experience this extreme outcome, it highlights a potential weak point for homes with multiple long-haired pets or people. The brush roll also seemed to be the culprit in another issue: shutting down on very thick, plush rugs. We tested it on a high-pile shag rug, and the resistance caused the brush motor’s overload protection to kick in, stopping it from spinning. It’s clear this vacuum excels on low-to-medium pile carpets and hard floors but may not be the ideal choice for extra-plush carpeting.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scouring feedback from other owners, a clear picture of the Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA emerges. The overwhelming majority of positive comments center on its astonishing suction power. Many, like us, share “before and after” stories, posting embarrassing-but-impressive photos of canisters full of filth pulled from carpets they thought were clean. One former Dyson loyalist of 15 years was converted, stating, “I could not be happier!!!… Don’t hesitate to purchase this model. You will be amazed.” The value proposition is another frequently praised aspect, offering performance that punches well above its price point, rivaling machines costing twice as much.
On the other hand, the negative feedback forms a few consistent threads. The most significant concern is long-term durability. Several users reported motor burnout or belt failure within the first year, with one stating theirs “didn’t even last 5 months before it fried.” This suggests potential quality control inconsistencies that are worth considering. The other major complaint, as we also found, is the “tangle-free” brush roll not living up to its name for long hair, and the vacuum’s inability to handle very thick, high-pile rugs without the brush motor shutting off.
How Does the Bissell 2852C Compare to the Alternatives?
The Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA operates in a competitive market. To understand its place, we need to compare it to other popular options, each catering to a slightly different user. Whether it’s the right choice for you depends on your specific needs for weight, features, and budget.
1. Oreck 2100RHS 8-Pound Upright Vacuum
- Upright vacuum cleaner with 12-inch-wide cleaning path is better suited for cleaning carpets than typical canister vacuum cleaners and takes up less space for storage
- Helping Hand handle has received Ease-of-Use Commendation from Arthritis Foundation; on/off switch is located in handgrip for convenience
The Oreck Commercial 2100RHS is a different beast entirely. It’s a throwback to simplicity and raw, lightweight function. Weighing a mere 8 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to push and maneuver, making it a favorite for those with mobility concerns or very large areas to cover quickly. It forgoes onboard tools, canisters, and complex features in favor of being exceptionally good at one thing: cleaning floors. It uses a bagged system, which is often preferred by allergy sufferers as it contains dust more effectively during disposal. Someone would choose the Oreck over the Bissell if their priority is absolute lightweight simplicity for floor cleaning only and they don’t need the versatility of hoses and tools for above-floor tasks. The Bissell, in contrast, is a feature-rich, all-in-one home cleaning system.
2. Bissell PowerGlide Pet Slim Corded Vacuum 3070
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- LIGHTWEIGHT WITH POWERFUL SUCTION. Weighs less than 10 pounds, and picks up pet hair with strength and agility.
Staying within the Bissell family, the PowerGlide Pet Slim offers a different form factor. It’s a corded stick vacuum, making it significantly lighter and more compact than the 2852C. This design makes it ideal for smaller homes, apartments, and quick cleanups. While it also features a tangle-free brush roll and specialized pet tools, its smaller motor and dustbin capacity mean it’s not designed for the same level of deep cleaning as the full-size upright 2852C. A user would opt for the PowerGlide Pet Slim if they prioritize nimble maneuverability, easy storage, and primarily have hard floors or low-pile rugs. The Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA is the better choice for those with larger, more heavily carpeted homes who need maximum power and capacity.
3. Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum
- Includes de-tangling technology that automatically clears wrapped hair from the brush bar as you clean
- Easy to maneuver with cleaning modes for deep carpet, low pile and hard floors
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 represents the premium end of the market and is a direct competitor in terms of performance goals. Dyson is renowned for its powerful cyclonic suction and innovative engineering. The Ball technology provides exceptional maneuverability that can feel superior to the Bissell’s traditional swivel steering. Its de-tangling technology is also highly regarded and may be more effective than Bissell’s. However, this all comes at a significantly higher price point. A buyer chooses the Dyson when budget is less of a concern and they want the absolute latest in vacuum technology, brand prestige, and proven performance. The Bissell 2852C offers a compelling alternative, delivering what many feel is 90% of the Dyson’s performance for a fraction of the cost, making it the high-value choice.
Final Verdict: A Powerful, Versatile Cleaner with Incredible Value
After extensive hands-on testing, it’s clear that the Bissell 2852C CleanView Allergen Upright Vacuum HEPA is a formidable cleaning machine that offers exceptional value. Its suction power is genuinely shocking, deep cleaning carpets to a level that has to be seen to be believed. For pet owners and allergy sufferers, the combination of the HEPA Sealed Allergen System and the versatile Lift-Off canister for detailed cleaning makes it a powerful ally in the quest for a cleaner, healthier home. It masterfully handles multi-surface homes, transitioning from hardwood to low- and medium-pile carpets with ease.
However, it is not without its caveats. Those with very long hair or multiple heavy-shedding pets may find the “tangle-free” brush roll requires occasional maintenance, and it is not the best choice for high-pile or shag carpeting. While most users have a great experience, reports of durability issues suggest it may not have the multi-decade lifespan of older, simpler machines. But for its price point, the performance and features are almost unbeatable. If you’re looking for a vacuum that delivers a premium, deep-cleaning experience without the premium price tag, we can wholeheartedly recommend it. It’s a machine that will likely reveal just how much your old vacuum was leaving behind. To see the incredible difference it can make in your own home, we highly encourage you to check the latest price and availability today.
Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API