Bissell 3878N
BISSELL PowerWash Pet Carpet Cleaner User Manual
Model: 3878N
Important Safety Instructions
Read all instructions before using your appliance. When using an electrical appliance, basic precautions should be observed, including the following:
- Always connect to a properly grounded outlet.
- Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning, maintaining or servicing the appliance.
- Do not immerse in water or liquid.
- Do not use with damaged cord or plug.
- Use only as described in this manual. Use only manufacturer's recommended attachments.
- Do not pull or carry by cord, use cord as a handle, close a door on cord, or pull cord around sharp edges or corners.
- Keep hair, loose clothing, fingers, and all parts of body away from openings and moving parts.
- Do not pick up anything that is burning or smoking, such as cigarettes, matches, or hot ashes.
- Do not use to pick up flammable or combustible liquids, such as gasoline, or use in areas where they may be present.
- Do not use without filters in place.
- Do not allow to be used as a toy. Close attention is necessary when used by or near children.
Product Overview
The BISSELL PowerWash Pet Carpet Cleaner is designed for effective deep cleaning of carpets, rugs, and upholstery. It features a powerful motor, specialized brushes, and a dual-tank system for optimal cleaning performance.

Image: The BISSELL PowerWash Pet Carpet Cleaner shown with its main unit, hose, 8cm tough stain tool, spraying crevice tool, and a bottle of BISSELL Wash & Protect Pet Stain & Odour cleaning solution.
Key Components:
- Clean Water Tank: Holds clean water and cleaning solution. Capacity: 3.8 Liters.
- Dirty Water Tank: Collects dirty water and debris.
- DeepReach™ PowerBrush: 4-row brush for deep cleaning and stain removal.
- Hose: 2.1m hose for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- 8 cm Tough Stain Tool: For tackling stubborn spots and stains.
- Spraying Crevice Tool: Ideal for baseboards, stairs, and pet beds.
Setup
- Assemble the Handle: Insert the upper handle into the main body until it clicks securely into place.
- Fill the Clean Water Tank:
Remove the clean water tank from the unit. Unscrew the cap and fill the tank with warm tap water up to the 'Water' fill line. Add BISSELL cleaning formula up to the 'Formula' fill line. Replace the cap and reinsert the tank into the unit.

Image: A person is shown pouring BISSELL Wash & Protect Pet Stain & Odour cleaning solution into the clean water tank of the carpet cleaner, illustrating the correct way to prepare the solution for cleaning.
- Prepare the Area: Vacuum the area to be cleaned thoroughly before using the carpet cleaner. Remove any large debris or loose dirt.
- Plug In: Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
Operating Instructions
Cleaning Carpets and Rugs:
- Power On: Turn on the machine using the power switch.
- Pre-Treat (Optional): For heavily soiled areas, pre-treat with a BISSELL pre-treatment spray.
- Cleaning Pass: Press the spray trigger to apply solution and make a slow forward wet pass, then a slow backward wet pass. Release the trigger and make a slow forward dry pass, then a slow backward dry pass to suction up the dirty water. Repeat until the area is clean. The cleaning path is 25 cm wide for efficient coverage.

Image: The BISSELL PowerWash Pet cleaner is shown actively cleaning a light-colored carpet, effectively removing a visible yellow stain. This demonstrates its capability to remove embedded pet dirt and dander allergens.

Image: A close-up view of the BISSELL PowerWash Pet's 4-Row DeepReach™ PowerBrush as it cleans a carpet, highlighting its effectiveness in removing tough stains.

Image: The BISSELL PowerWash Pet cleaner is shown making a pass on a carpet, illustrating its 25 cm wide cleaning path that allows for efficient cleaning of larger areas.
- Empty Dirty Water Tank: When the dirty water tank reaches its 'Full' line, or when you finish cleaning, empty it and rinse thoroughly.
Cleaning with Tools (Hose and Attachments):
- Attach Hose: Open the hose access door on the front of the machine and insert the hose. Ensure it clicks into place.
- Attach Tool: Connect the desired cleaning tool (8 cm Tough Stain Tool or Spraying Crevice Tool) to the end of the hose.
- Clean Surfaces: For upholstery, stairs, or other hard-to-reach areas, hold the tool about an inch above the soiled surface and press the spray trigger. Release the trigger and apply downward pressure while pulling the tool slowly over the soiled surface to suction up the dirty water. Repeat as needed.

Image: Two panels show the spraying crevice tool in use, demonstrating its ability to clean hard-to-reach areas such as baseboards and stairs, as well as pet beds.

Image: Two panels illustrate the 8 cm tough stain tool in action, effectively removing a liquid stain from upholstery, showcasing its utility for quick spot treatment or deep cleaning furniture.
- Disconnect Tools: When finished, turn off the machine, disconnect the tool from the hose, and then disconnect the hose from the machine. Close the hose access door.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your BISSELL PowerWash Pet cleaner.
- Empty and Rinse Tanks: After each use, empty both the clean and dirty water tanks. Rinse them thoroughly with warm water. Allow them to air dry before reassembling.
- Clean Nozzle and Brush Roll: Remove the nozzle cover and clean any debris from the spray nozzle and brush roll area. The 4-row DeepReach™ PowerBrush should be free of hair and debris for effective cleaning.
- Rinse Tools: Rinse the 8 cm Tough Stain Tool and Spraying Crevice Tool under running water after each use.
- Store Properly: Store the machine in a dry, protected area. Do not store with solution in the clean water tank.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Reduced Spray | Clean water tank empty; Tank not seated properly; Spray nozzle clogged. | Refill tank; Push tank firmly into place; Clean spray nozzle. |
| No Suction | Dirty water tank full; Tank not seated properly; Hose access door open; Clog in hose or nozzle. | Empty dirty water tank; Push tank firmly into place; Close hose access door; Clear any clogs. |
| Machine Not Turning On | Not plugged in; Circuit breaker tripped. | Ensure plug is securely in a working outlet; Reset circuit breaker. |
| Brush Not Rotating | Brush belt broken or dislodged; Debris wrapped around brush. | Inspect and replace/realign belt; Remove debris from brush. |
Specifications
- Model: 3878N
- Brand: Bissell
- Power: 600 W (Suction)
- Clean Water Tank Capacity: 3.8 Liters
- Product Dimensions (L x W x H): 42 x 30 x 108 cm
- Item Weight: 7.71 Kilograms
- Cleaning Path Width: 25 cm
- Hose Length: 2.1 m
- Included Tools: 8 cm Tough Stain Tool, Spraying Crevice Tool
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Color: Noir Cha Cha Lime (Black Cha Cha Lime)
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official BISSELL website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Online Support: www.bissell.com
Model Number: 3878N
Serial Number: (Located on the product label, usually on the back or bottom of the unit)
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