Compare Simplicity Vacuums Allergy Upright Vacuum, S20EZM vs Bissell MultiClean Vacuum

Included tools are usually described as basic but useful (commonly crevice and a combo dusting/upholstery tool). Several reviewers want a wider or softer dusting tool, and some add aftermarket pet or specialty attachments.

Included tools like the Pet TurboEraser and combo crevice/dusting brush are generally considered useful and pet-oriented. TechGearLab found the included mini brush tool underpowered and the set less competitive than some rivals.

A few comments call the vacuum simple, clean, or stylish, while others dislike cosmetic choices or mention broken trim/cover parts that are mostly aesthetic.

Airflow blowback or scatter is specifically mentioned on hard floors by some users, including reports of particles being thrown back toward feet during use.

Area rug handling depends heavily on height setting and rug type. Some owners say it works well when adjusted up; others say it can grab edges, chew bindings, or feel too aggressive on certain rugs.

Suction or airflow relief and adjustment settings help it move on plush or thick rugs by reducing suction when needed. It may require tuning to balance push effort versus pickup on different piles.

Assembly is repeatedly described as simple and quick, typically sliding in the handle and attaching the hose, with minimal screws.

Assembly was described as straightforward and tool-free, with pieces clicking into place easily. Setup did not require special tools or complicated steps in the first-look review.

The bag-full indicator is viewed as helpful when present, but at least one owner reports it failing to reset after changing bags.

The bagged system is a major selling point: owners like cleaner disposal, consistent suction, and less dust exposure than bagless designs. Bag capacity is often praised, but replacement cost and bag consumption (especially with heavy shedding or wool rugs) are frequent notes.

The bagless bin is easy to remove and empty, and reviewers appreciated the simple pop-off canister. Bin capacity is described as slightly below average but usually not limiting for typical cleans.

Build quality feedback is polarized: some praise sturdy materials (metal brush roll, aluminum wand, rubber bumpers), while others report cheap-feeling plastics, wobble, broken handles/covers, or hose issues over time.

High-pile carpet performance is generally strong due to agitation and height settings, but some users find it hard to push or overly aggressive if set too low.

High-pile and shag results are more mixed, with TechGearLab reporting weaker extraction and leftover heavy debris in fibers. It may require extra passes or may not satisfy users with thick plush rugs.

Low-pile carpet results are typically positive, especially for everyday pickup and pet hair, though pushing effort can increase if suction is high and height is set low.

Generally solid on low-pile carpet, with several reviews showing good pickup on common debris and pet hair. One lab noted it works best with forward passes and can leave debris on the back stroke.

Medium-pile carpet cleaning is consistently praised, with multiple reports of lifting matted carpet and pulling embedded dirt and pet hair that previous vacuums missed.

In side-by-side demos, it picked up a mixed debris load from a medium-pile rug efficiently, sometimes in a single pass. Performance is generally framed as strong for a corded upright in its price class.

Some owners mention clogs or brush/belt issues that require disassembly, while others highlight visible clog indicators and easy access to the roller area for checks.

Some debris can build up around the brush area when the brushroll is off on hard floors, requiring occasional clearing. Otherwise, reviews do not describe frequent full clogs during normal debris pickup.

Comparisons are common: many say it out-cleans certain Sharks/Dysons on carpet and pet hair, while at least one comparison favors a premium canister for ease and deep extraction despite higher upkeep.

Vacuum Wars and a side-by-side comparison suggest its surface pickup competes with more expensive uprights, especially on debris pickup tests. Other testing places it mid-pack, indicating competitors may win on crevice or hardwood fine-dust priorities.

Controls are usually described as straightforward, with height adjustment settings that are easy to use. The foot pedal placement is occasionally criticized for accidental shutoffs when bumping furniture.

Controls include brushroll on/off plus suction or airflow-relief adjustments for plush versus low carpet. They are straightforward, though not as automatic as some competitors' sensor-driven modes.

The Lift-Off canister detaches from the floorhead, enabling portable above-floor cleaning. A limitation noted is that the canister does not pair with the powered floorhead like a true canister vacuum, reducing some flexibility.

Cord length perception varies: several reviewers call it long enough (often cited as 30 ft), while others say it is shorter than expected and requires frequent outlet changes in larger spaces.

Cord length is described as slightly below average on the Slim version, but not a major issue for many. A separate cord-rewind variant integrates the cord internally for convenience.

Cord wrap is often praised as neat and practical, but multiple users wish for a retractable cord for convenience and to reduce cord management hassles.

The automatic cord rewind is a key convenience feature on the cord-rewind model and worked well in the demo. The same reviewer warned that rewind mechanisms can jam over time, creating uncertainty about longevity.

Crevice performance is a recurring weakness, attributed to the large intake gates that reduce sealed suction. Reviewers note it collects less in crevice tests than peers and is not the best choice for tight gaps.

Day-to-day use is often described as simple and satisfying on carpet, but usability drops for some due to weight when carrying, strong pull on thick carpet, short hose frustrations, or brush roll behavior during hose use.

Opinions vary: some owners describe it as easy to maneuver, lightweight-feeling, and simple to operate. TechGearLab rated ease of use below average, citing harder pushing and turning and less seamless floor transitions.

Edge and baseboard cleaning is highlighted positively by some owners, while others still avoid edges on delicate rugs due to brush aggression.

Edge cleaning is adequate when approaching head-on, but along-the-wall passes can leave material behind. Some users also noticed the floorhead rubber can drag instead of gliding smoothly against wood.

Emptying is typically a one-button drop into the trash, and users describe it as straightforward and low-hassle. This simplicity is a consistent positive in owner-style reviews.

Filtration is a standout: multiple reviews highlight HEPA-style bags and filters, strong dust containment, and noticeable allergy relief versus bagless vacuums.

Sealed HEPA filtration is a standout, passing fog/particle tests with little to no visible leakage and earning strong filtration scores. Multiple reviewers call out the allergen system as a meaningful benefit for air quality.

The floorhead/brush system is powerful but divisive. Many emphasize strong agitation and carpet grooming; many also complain the brush roll runs continuously and can be too aggressive on hard floors and some rugs.

The floorhead uses large front gates and (on some versions) a rubber squeegee or strip that improves intake of bigger debris on hard floors. The same rubber elements can affect glide or push effort on certain hard floors and plush carpets.

A full-width squeegee behind the brushroll helps maintain contact and improve hard-floor suction for tile, laminate, and hardwood. This feature is framed as a practical upgrade for hard-floor pickup.

Pet-hair tests and user demos show above-average carpet hair pickup for the category, leaving carpets looking clean. Some long hair can still remain or wrap around the brushroll depending on hair length and pile.

The tangle-free brushroll is consistently praised for reducing hair wrap compared with typical uprights. However, long-hair wrap still occurred in some testing, and one reviewer found hair removal tedious because the roller could not be removed.

Hard-floor fine dust pickup is inconsistent: some users report very clean results, while others say the brush roll and airflow can scatter particles or require switching to other vacuums for hard floors.

Vacuum Wars reports strong surface pickup including fine debris on hard floors, helped by the floorhead design and squeegee. TechGearLab found it left sand behind (especially with the brushroll stopped), so it may underperform on heavy fine-dust loads.

Large debris intake on hard floors gets mixed feedback, including complaints about litter or particles being thrown back during use in some homes.

Large front gates let it ingest larger crumbs, litter, oats, and similar debris well, with Vacuum Wars calling it rare performance for an upright. Some testing still found below-average hardwood totals, suggesting results depend on debris type and technique.

The headlight is frequently mentioned as useful for spotting debris, though at least one owner questions bulb longevity and whether the lights are true LEDs.

The Allergen Lift-Off Pet Slim versions reviewed include a bright bank of LED headlights that reviewers found more helpful than expected. A comparison video notes some lower-end Bissell variants omit lights, so availability depends on the exact model.

Reach is a frequent theme: some are happy with the wand/hose extension for corners and drapes, while others say the permanently attached hose feels too short and can tug the vacuum toward them.

Reported hose length around 6 to 7 feet provides decent reach for above-floor tasks. It is generally seen as adequate rather than exceptional.

Maintenance expectations are higher than some modern uprights: multiple owners mention periodic belt changes and watching filters/bags, and a few report recurring belt or brush issues.

Routine maintenance includes rinsing pre-filters, keeping filters dry, and occasional hair or debris cleanup around the roller area. At least one tester disliked that the main roller cannot be removed, making hair removal more tedious.

Handling is mixed: some call it easy to maneuver with good wheel roll and a small footprint, while others find it awkward to lift onto steps, hard to push on thick carpet, or unstable/wobbly when parked.

The Slim head and swivel steering are praised for quick turns and tighter spaces. Conversely, lab testing reported it can be hard to push on mats or when turning, depending on floor type and settings.

Noise is a common downside. Many describe it as loud, though a few say the tone is acceptable or less irritating than other vacuums.

Multiple user-style reviews describe it as not super loud and relatively pleasant sounding, with a quiet brushroll. It is not described as whisper-quiet, but overall noise is viewed as reasonable for an upright.

Onboard tool storage is commonly praised as convenient and secure, helping reduce lost tools and making quick transitions easier.

Some versions include onboard storage for a crevice tool or other accessories, which users liked for convenience. Storage details vary by model version.

Ongoing costs are mostly about bags and periodic belts/filters. Many accept the trade for cleaner disposal and better dust control, but some find OEM bags or add-on tools expensive.

Longevity reports are split: some claim many years across prior Simplicity units and expect long service due to replaceable parts, while others report failures around 1 to 2 years, frequent belt breaks, or brush/motor issues.

Most reviewers describe it as one of Bissell's strongest upright offerings and praise its all-around pickup, especially in Vacuum Wars testing. TechGearLab scored it average and highlighted weak suction and hardwood shortcomings, so impressions vary by test method and expectations.

At least one reviewer noted the vacuum arrived well protected with no box damage. Packaging experience appears positive but is not widely discussed.

Pet owners frequently praise strong pickup on carpet and reduced lingering hair. A few reports note limitations for long hair on upholstery or brush/belt strain in heavy pet homes.

Repeatedly positioned as pet-friendly thanks to the Pet TurboEraser, Lift-Off above-floor cleaning, and solid pet-hair pickup. Hair wrap can still happen, but overall it is seen as a practical choice for common pet messes.

Value is usually rated positively for a bagged HEPA-style upright, with several reviewers calling it worth the money. Some disagree when durability or repair frequency becomes an issue.

Often viewed as a mid-level priced upright that can deliver debris pickup comparable to pricier models, making it a value play for many. One lab review and the cord-rewind reviewer felt the price was high relative to crevice/hardwood results or compared with other Bissell options.

Some users describe a powered-assist or self-propel-like feel, while others explicitly wish it were self-propelled, especially as they age or when cleaning thick carpet.

Stair cleaning is supported via hose/tools and at least one stair-focused attachment mention, but carrying weight and hose tug can make stair work more demanding for some users.

Lift-Off mode and the included tools make stairs and pet beds easier than with a standard upright. Above-floor cleaning is repeatedly cited as a practical use case.

Several reviewers like the compact footprint and storage friendliness, especially for apartments and tight spaces. Upright stability is occasionally criticized due to wobble or center-of-gravity comments.

Suction is consistently described as strong, often the primary reason people keep the vacuum. A minority say it is good but not on par with their best prior vacuum, or that strong suction can increase push effort.

Airflow at the floorhead is described as slightly above average, but sealed suction and hose metrics are often below average. The design favors open airflow for debris intake, which can reduce suction seal for crevice work.

The Slim version's narrower cleaning path improves maneuvering in tight areas and around furniture. The tradeoff noted is a shorter cord compared with the wider-head version.

Support experiences are mixed but lean positive in key stories, including at least one report of a quick refund after failure. Others report difficulty reaching customer service or post-warranty parts frustration.

Long-term reliability is not extensively covered, but the cord-rewind reviewer specifically questioned how durable the rewind mechanism will be. Basic operation and components generally seemed solid in first-look impressions.

The combo dusting brush bristles were described as fairly stiff, with a caution to avoid delicate surfaces like screens or plastics. Using the appropriate tool and gentle pressure helps reduce risk.

Tool changes are usually straightforward, especially with the telescoping wand. Compatibility with older hoses or certain attachments is a reported pain point for some owners.

Parts click together without tools and attachments are easy to swap for most tasks. Some reviewers wished the handle separated from the wand to make switching to hose-attached tools faster.

Because Lift-Off does not connect to the powered floorhead, it cannot fully mimic a low-profile canister setup for under-furniture cleaning. The slim head and wand can still help reach some areas, but expectations should be moderate.

Above-floor cleaning is generally strong with the wand and crevice tool, but upholstery performance is mixed, including complaints about long pet hair on couches and limited included fabric tools.

The Pet TurboEraser and wand handle upholstery and above-floor dusting reasonably well, with some tests landing around average. A few reviewers felt the turbo tool was underpowered, especially on embedded debris.

Overall versatility is a major theme: it can switch between upright floor cleaning and Lift-Off above-floor tasks, and it includes pet-focused tools. Weak crevice suction and some hardwood fine-dust shortcomings are the main constraints.

Weight impressions vary but cluster around sturdy and somewhat heavy. Many say it feels fine while pushing, but heavier when carrying up stairs or doing repeated back-and-forth on thick carpet.

Measured and listed weight is around 15 to 16 pounds, placing it in a mid-weight range for uprights. Some users still describe it as lightweight in hand, likely due to swivel and balance.

Wool and delicate rug compatibility is a concern in the reviews: some users report damage to a rug or needing to avoid edges, and others note wool rugs fill bags quickly even when they like the cleaning result.