Bridal registries for do-it-yourselfers

Love aside, for some folks the best part of getting married is the bridal registry.

The most elaborate of wish lists, a bridal registry allows the couple to dream big. Stunning china and crystal stemware, cutlery with hard-to-pronounce names, and cookware from France that’s the color of the summer sky—these are the material rewards for true love.

When do-it-yourselfers fall in love, their dreams of building a life together might mean a bridal registry at a big-box retailers like Lowe’s or Home Depot. Lovebirds can fill their wish list with chain saws, lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, ladders, and the like and publish it online.

Love is grand. Or make that “grands” for couples whose registry doesn't shy away from including items like washing machines, refrigerators, and other major appliances for the kitchen and laundry.—Kimberly Janeway

Comments

[Kathleen Hensley]

Have you researched the steam mop, the one that cleans with steam only, no detergents?

[CW]

Hi,

Looking for consumer reports info on carpet shampooers. Doesn't CR rate these? Both spot cleaners and up-rights?

[CW]

Hi Kathleen,

No not the steam mop as I think that is for hard floors? I am looking for carpet. I have a kitty who likes to eat grass and well you know....CW

[Anne]

Kathleen--

I work for a TV station in Pittsburgh and we do a product testing franchise called "Does It Really Do That." While I would by NO MEANS claim to put products to the test as thoroughly as Consumer Reports does, we did indeed test a product called the H2O Mop, which is what I think you were asking about. Our tester liked it on hard floors (wood, ceramic, etc.) but the carpet cleaning attachment didn't work very well. You can watch the story here:

http://kdka.com/consumer/H2O.mop.consumer.2.642719.html

Hope this helps.

Anne

[sheila]

I'm wondering about buying a carpet shampooer and can't seem to find any info. How about it?

[Sharon]

I, too, have cats. I need to buy a carpet shampooer, either spot or upright. I keep seeing different ones on HSN, etc. but can't find any valid reviews. Can't believe CR doesn't rate them. EVERYONE has pets!

[Luanne]

Yeah, I need information on carpet shampooers as well.
In the past, I've had nothing but VERY BAD LUCK with them.
THIS TIME, I want to check reviews first before buying but am
now coming up empty. Any recommendations? I need something
which won't break down after a few uses. Reliability is a big
issue here.

[Gary Shpak]

I'm looking to buy a carpet shampooer also, but I haven't got a clue if they're worth the money or whether to continue renting a commercial model. Also, I'd appreciate any feedback about Hoover over Bissell. Thanks.

[ed wilson]

Yes You NEED A review on deep Cleaners/Steam Cleaners! I can't believe this hasn't been done!!

[nancy J Eaton]

I also NEED A review on deep Cleaners/Steam Cleaners

[Valorie Worthy]

I have been trying to find a reliable shampooer for years.
Why doesn't CS review them? Nearly EVERYONE has pets or kids! PLEASE HELP US!!

[mark poe]

I have been pleased with my Bissell carpet cleaner, but it has now broken after several years of hard use. I do believe I got my money's worth and plan to buy another one, but I would like to have the Consumer Reports research info to back me up. Any plans on doing a carpet cleaner review?

[Dana]

Yes, I'm here searching for ratings on carpet shampooers and can't find anything. Definitely needed.

[Noreen Coulman]

I'm looking for info on purchasing a carpet steam cleaner and see the other comments requesting same information.
So far I'm between a Hoover and Royal. Do you have any results on these brands?

[gail]

My 3 year old Hoover carpet shampoo cleaner has been a good investment. It is a handy machine with swiveling brushes that sweeps up pet hair and a strong suction that pulls the hot water back out. This machine is more efficent, easier to use and the carpet dries in a shorter time than the heavy rentals we have tried. It is the same size as my Hoover upright vacuum and just as easy to store.
Also have used it to scrub tile floors with good results. I see they now have one called "all-terrain" made for that but it is more expensive.

[Sharyn]

Yes, please carpet cleaner/shampooer reviews please. Obviously there is a need.

[skiman]

I remember years ago consumer reports had an article on carpet shampooers. That's what I used to buy my current one, a Hoover steam vac. I've had it for 12 years roughly. No problems. I find it hard to believe CR hasn't updated their info. I guess that's another reason I'll probably not renew my subscription this year.

[Nikki]

I also would love a review for carpet cleaners from CR!! I need an upright for shampooing my entire house. I remember seeing a review on CR about this long ago and they said that hiring it out is the way to get the best results, but I want to do it myself and need to be able to compare products.
Last year I searched around dozens of review websites before I bought a BISELL SPOT BOT and I LOVE it! It works great and still works as well as it did the first time. Some of my long-time set-in stains haven't come out completely but most come right up. It is a fabulous product. I got the "pet" version just because the store was out of the regular, but after some research... they are the same thing. Would definitely recommend the spot bot!

[Chris S.]

I just paid almost $300 to have my carpets cleaned. Carpet steam cleaners seem to go for about $300, so it would pay for itself after the first use, but before I spend that much I'd like to know which one to choose. How about some ratings on these?

[adriana]

Yes, please, a review of carpet cleaners is something i would really, really like to see.

[mike]

I subscribed to find carpet shampooers. Now it's a waste?

[Sue]

I, too, am looking for carpet steam cleaner reviews.

[John]

I would like some guidance on buying a carpet shampooer too. Does CR read this forum?

[Karen Olson]

We just 'rescued' two basset hounds in February... within a couple of months, my carpets and rugs were showing the dirt, oil, etc. from our lovable new additions... after having them (the carpets that is) professionally 'steam-cleaned'. We really cannot afford to have the carpets cleaned every couple of months and need to purchase a 'steam cleaner'. Can CR give me any help on this... PLEASE!!

[Wendy]

Add me to the list. I really need a carpet cleaner review. We have two dogs and a cat. Carpet cleaning is way expensive and I really want to buy a cleaner. Thanks!

[Alasdair]

Wow, here's a shocker. Wife's out shopping and is going to pick up a Carpet Cleaner to replace our old and not very good one. So I thought I would hop on Consumer Reports and read the reviews. None. I can't believe that. After suscribing to the Mag or now to Online for 16 years this is the first time they didn't have a review on something that everyone of us has a need for.

[John Rawkins]

We will have to buy a carpet steamer this weekend as we have 14 people coming next weekend for dinner- Thanksgiving(Canadian) weekend. Too bad CR couldnt help us. It looks like we will buy a Bissell at Costco.

[Jean]

I am looking for a rating on carpet shampooers as well. When can we expect CR to do so?

[Holly Bastier]

Hi, CR!!

I've been looking for the past 4 years for ratings on carpet shampooers, and I am amazed to discover that you don't rate them!!! Please add me to the list of longtime subscribers that really needs ratings/recommendations on carpet shampooers!!! Several of us have asked whether you're reading these forums or not - if you are, can you tell us what we need to do to have this added as a category?? Thanks! We have 3 dogs and 2 cats and are buying carpet cleaners every other year and have yet to find one that can take monthly use and not fall apart. Also, if anyone out there knows whether the Rug Doctor machine now for sale for home use (this machine is blue, not red like the rentals) is worth the $600-$700 I see it advertised for, we'd love to know!

[Ronnie]

I'd like to purchase a carpet steam cleaner (for home use), please consider reviewing them. Thanks much!

[Dave]

We are also looking for reviews on carpet steam cleaners so that we make a wise purchase.

[Patricia]

I'm looking for info on steam mops like Bissell and shark.

[Mary Graham]

In the "new economy" we have to make our old carpets last. Getting them professionally cleaned is expensive. I'd really like to hear reports on carpet cleaners for residential use.

[clk]

Wow! I am also in shock that there are NO CR reviews/ratings on carpet cleaners/ steam cleaners/ shampooers. There is an obvious need. CR we are counting on you. Fill this need.

[Bill]

I have had a Bissel, but the container finally broke where the lid latches. Now it will not work. Other than that the unit works great, but the replacement container I ordered doesn't seat well at the suction return for the water extraction from the carpet. I have installed carpets professionally for the last 15 years, and I must say that if you are not careful when cleaning your carpets with steam or water, you can ruin the carpet. Carpet is put together with latex glues, and the backing of the carpet will seperate if you put to much water into the carpet. The carpet mills lately have been using less glue or more filler in their glues so the problem is worse than ever. If you want to see what I'm talking about, take a scrap piece of carpet and get it wet, the mesh or soft backing (depending on manufacturer) will seperate from the rest of the carpet. This is called delamination in the industry. This causes your carpets to loosen, or wrinkle.

[Alison]

We had a kitten adopt my hubby, and now I find myself in need of a carpet cleaner. Hubby only wants steam, to kill the germs. Please, please, please do a review in the near future....I can't take it anymore!

[Doug]

I am looking for a review of carpet shampooers/steam cleaners. When can we expect one?

[Kay Davis]

Add me to the list of those needing a carpet shampooer. I am also interested in the different types of carpet cleaning services - Chem clean (a dry process), steam cleaners, and the regular shampoo service. I have been told that once a carpet is shampooed that they get dirty faster because the chemicals residue in the clearners attract dirt. That may be a crock but it appears true. I have only lived in this house for 1 year and I have had the rugs cleaned twice already. Now it seems they are dirty again. Help.

[Gloria]

Ditto to all of the above requests for reviews of carpet shampooers/steam cleaners...ASAP!

[Elizabeth Gammon]

I just signed up for a year's membership online, primarily to find out about carpet cleaner/shampooers, and now see that you haven't made a report on them.

Is there a previous year's report that I can refer to?
I really need to buy one that is lightweight, narrow and does a good job cleaning and killing bacteria. Would you recommend the Bissell Quicksteamer Lightweight deep cleaner?

[Dana]

Hello, Consumer Reports, are you out there and are your listening???? We're begging you for a review of carpet cleaners. Apparently its something the public wants to know about!

[Nancy Gant]

I know CR has to plan out its reviewing process way ahead of time, but it would be nice to know when/if a review is coming. I need to replace the water container on my Hoover, but maybe I should just get a new one. I have also heard that if you do not rinse and dry with a steam cleaner, either do it yourself or professionally, dirt is attracted to the residue and that is why carpets seem to get so dirty so fast after cleaning. Makes sense. So, what carpet cleaner rinses cleaning and efficiently? Sounds like a good question for Consumer Reports, doesn't it?

[Nancy]

I,too, have pets and have decided to pruchase a steam carpet cleaner instead of paying high prices to have my carpets cleaned frequently. I just logged on to consumerreports.org to help me make a decision so add me to the list of those who need info in this department. (10+ year subscriber and online member as well...)
Thanks!

[Kathy]

I guess I will have to add my comments. I too just signed in to get a review on carpet cleaners and did not find one. I have also been looking at the steam floor cleaners and I am not sure if they are worth it. Very disappointed.

[Michael]

One of the primary reasons I had renewed my / our subscription to Consumer Reports Online was to have the ability to review carpet cleaners for overall performance in general and specifically attachements clearners ability to clean apulstory (e.g. the carpenting and seats in my truck. I'm very disapointed to see that a formal comparision still has not been provided by CR. I'll probably be seeking a partial refund on my membership as the serevice is not of use (not the first time I couldn't find subjective data on what I was looking o purchase. Good look to everyone else.

[Dean]

add me to the list. I need to buy a steam cleaner and am surprised that CR has no review.

To the moderator: It is customary to respond to at least let people know someone is listening...

[Gretchen]

We have 3 cats and need some feedback on purchasing a carpet cleaner. I am concerned too about the safety of any cleaner for our 10 month old baby who spends all her time on the floor. If there are chemicals involved in any way, I need to be sure they do not impact small children.

[Lenora Everett]

Please evaluate for hard floors, as well.

[gloria]

I have been a subscriber for three years and CR has been quite useful before I purchase anything except in this instance. I couldn't quite believe that there are not any ratings for carpet steam cleaners. I am tired of shelling out hundreds of dollars every year to have my carpets cleaned only to have it be as dirty as it was before a month later because I have kids. There was one website that provided reviews that were not in depth. I would like to know if CR even is aware of the need for reviews of this product? How does one get their attention in this matter?

[gloria]

I have been a subscriber for three years and CR has been quite useful before I purchase anything except in this instance. I couldn't quite believe that there are not any ratings for carpet steam cleaners. I am tired of shelling out hundreds of dollars every year to have my carpets cleaned only to have it be as dirty as it was before a month later because I have kids. There was one website that provided reviews that were not in depth. I would like to know if CR even is aware of the need for reviews of this product? How does one get their attention in this matter?

[Susan Cassat]

One of the reasons that I recently subscribed to ConsumerReports.org was because I knew that I would soon be researching carpet cleaners/steamers. I was surprised and disappointed to to find nothing.

[Cathy]

I, too, was looking for a review on carpet cleaners. I just purchased a Bissell at Costco but wanted to verify it before opening it! I'll let ya'll know how it goes! And please, CR...do a carpet cleaner review!

[patty]

I am also looking for a review on steam cleaners. I bought a shark last year and was not satisfied. I have now seen an ad for Haan steam cleaner. Does it really work? Did anyone have luck with the Shark? Maybe I just had a fluke. It would be great to get away from all of the chemicals.

[Bobbe]

ditto! Attention should be paid-in some fashion- to customer requests....editorial, posting in magazine if no review. Six months with no response....my subscription will lapse.

[Maria]

I need to buy a carpet shampooer and was depending on CR to give me a heads up on the best buy. I can't believe CR doesn't review these. :(

[Ron]

I, too, am looking for a new shampooer. We had a Bissell, top of the line consumers model at the time (about 8-9 years ago), and it has been nothing but trouble and has been "down" more than it has been working. Any chance of a review soon? Maybe Costco is the solution. At least you can return it for a full year.

[Joanne]

I too, find myself frustrated and alone in the search to find the best carpet shampooer. I can tell you that I purchased a Bissell Prosteamer a few years back, probably the low grade one, but it did not work well for me.
I have 5 kids and a dog, I had heavy duty traffic and for that, it did not work at all. Not to mention, it did not suck up enough of the water when it was supposed to. Perhaps low traffic area would be fine, but I need heavy duty and that was not it. Hope that helps some of you with your decision.

[Julie]

I have pets and live in a rural area. The amount of carpet cleaning I've had to have done is getting too expensive. I finally decided to purchase my own carpet cleaner so I can keep up easier and much to my surprise, can't find and consumer reports about them. I am thinking about the Bissell 2X......does anyone have any comments/suggestions? PLEASE CR, it seems by this list that there are a lot of us out there that are looking for your help!!!

[Julie]

Well, add my to the list of people who signed on to get reviews on carpet cleaners. I am thinking about the Bissell 2X. Anyone with comments/suggestions? We have 2 dogs and live in a wooded area. It's getting very expensive to keep having my carpets cleaned.

[Daisy]

I'll just add my name to the list. Really need a review on carpet steam cleaners, now!

[Donald Hibbs]

Add our name to those looking for a review on carpet steam cleaners. That is one of the reasons I signed up for the online Consumer Reports. Thank you for considering this request.

[Kathy]

I also would like to see a review of steam cleaners for carpet and tile (especially grout). I was looking at the McCullough heavy duty steam cleaner, but hoped that CR would have a review. We really need this especially considering the emphasis on "green cleaning" since these steam cleaners purport to clean without chemicals. I have a dog with seizures and I have asthma, so I'm really hoping this will work for bathroom and kitchen tile floors.

[Rob]

I too would like to see a review of carpet cleaners/steam cleaners. Seems like a basic item that should be reviewed periodically.
Thanks.

[AJ]

Thanks to those who provided their personal experience. It's all we have to go on in deciding what to buy! CR! Hear our call for a review on carpet steam cleaners. Or at least tell us why there isn't one...

[Andrew]

Every time that I want to look at a review for something that is not extremely common, I find that CR has either not reviewed it or it was over 10 years ago and not on the website.

That is why I didn't renew my account.

[patty boggess]

On carpet shampooers....and, Consumer Reports your response is....?

[MJ]

Add my name to the list of those wanting a objective overview of carpet cleaners on the market. I, too, am interesting in hearing how the steam cleaners fare when put up against those that use a detergent. Please CR, listen to those who support you financially and investigate this for us.

[CG]

I need information on carpet cleaners as well. I can't believe after all the years of them being on the market that CR hasn't rated them. It is an item that should be!

I would like my name added to the list to receive information on them. People who need this information are some of the ones that keep you in business. Please research this category! If you can't have run-of-the-mill items like this, there is no reason for me to renew.

[Larry]

Please add us to the list. We are in need of a reliable and competent carpet cleaner. Is there any plan soon to give us a report? It seems this is a very common need.

[Lewis Pagano]

Is there some particular reason that CR has NOT reviewed carpet cleaners? Especially with all the requests I see listed above?
I have purchased two and returned them both- I went by customer reviews and they were mixed. Some had good luck with the equipment and some not. Both of the ones I bought broke during the first use.
Get with it CR- or should we all look to another source for test results?

[Dave]

My wife and I have are subcribers to the magazine. We joined online to find out about carpet shampooers, but nothing. Please do a review.

[MK]

With all these comments on steam cleaners/shampooers - why hasn't CR responded? Not worth it, too few products to review, all the products suck, we're in the process, something. As a subscriber, I think we're entitled to know -

What is it CR - why no reviews on carpet cleaners?

[James]

I am also anxious to know about steam cleaners for the hard floors. Please add me to the list.

[Brett]

Yes, I too would like to see a report on carpet cleaners / shampooers / steamers.... I haven't had much luck with the ones you rent at the grocery or hardware stores. But, I would like to spot clean now ang again between commercial cleanings. Please, CR, when will you report??

[KM]

To the Moderator: Please let us know when a review of carpet cleaners/steam cleaners will be posted. I find it hard to believe that with the many posts listed, there is NO RESPONSE! Thank you.

[Gloria]

A 2009 report on carpet cleaners would be appreciated.
For now, check out National Geographic's Green Guide on "Are there any green carpet cleaner?" report. It states that if you are looking to rent a cleaner..."Consumer Reports rated Rug Doctor as the best option..."

[Kat]

Bummer. No carpet cleaner review.

[M.Loucks]

I too certainly would like to see a review of carpet cleaners. I'm amazed that an organization such as Consumer Reports would allow so many requests to go ignored. Hopefully my request could / will make the difference - the proverbially straw that broke the camel's back. Once again, I would request that CR provide a review of home use carpet cleaners.

[K Lamkin]

Yes I too am sadly disappointed that this product, something most households have a need for these days, has not been reviewed by CR, particularly with the outcry posted by others here.

I am slowly growing more and more diappointed with my subcription.

[Bob]

I believe your customer base has spoken! It is time for CR to schedule a review of carpet cleaners. Please communicate when this will happen. . . Providing no response is unacceptable.

[paul andres]

WHAT THE? WE ARE BEING DUPED BY CONSUMER REPORTS!!!!!!

[DMJ]

I agree. I am a long-time subscriber and have used CR as a reference for any number of things. It's hard to believe that there is no review on carpet cleaners and incredibly hard to believe that there has been no CR reponse to such a great number of subscribers (above)! A minimal response is all that is necessary, I would think, just to make customers feel that they are being listened to if not directly addressed! Thank you.

[Kevin Springer]

I have been using a Bissell for many years and it has worked fine. I am now noticing Rug Doctors in the retail stores for purchase and wonder how they compare. Please advise.

[Karen Rizzo]

I PAID CONSUMER REPORTS JUST TO FIND OUT ABOUT THE CARPET STEAM CLEANERS!!! AND...NO REPORTS TO BE FOUND! Amazon.com has customers reviews for FREE on various carpet cleaning machines, but was wanted a profession rating and review. CONSUMER REPORTS, YOU NEED TO RESPOND TO ALL OF YOUR PAID CUSTOMERS ON THIS REQUEST!!!!!!!!!!!

[Dawn]

I also am in need of reviews of carpet cleaners/steamers. This is one of the main reasons I subscribed to CR. After looking at all of the previous comments since May 2008 with no response from CR, I am disheartened. At least respond to your subscribers!!

[Marianne]

Carpet steamers/cleaners are not cheap. I would really like to see C.R. do a review of these appliances. I read the customer reviews on a retailers web site and cringe. Most models are not worth even half what they sell for. Consumers need a reliable way to choose a decent product. I almost bought one today but changed my mind after I read about the problems that other people had. I checked back-issues for several years and could not find a single review from CR.

[joanne]

I can't believe the number of requests for CR to review carpet cleaners.With the poor economic conditions we all now face, alot more people will be looking to clean their own carpets as a cheaper alternative to professional cleaning services. Please - we need a review ASAP

[Sandra]

I'm very disappointed that I could not find a review for a steam mop for hardwood floors. That was the primary reason for joining. If consumers report doesn't keep up on the new things becoming available, what's the sense in belonging?

[Christopher Colvin]

Hi CR. We're looking for a carpet shampooer too. My continued paid subscription is getting some ratings before we purchase one. How about it?

[david]

Add me to the list of people who want to see reviews of carpet cleaners.

[mrsphipps]

Please add to list of those wanting to see CR reviews on carpet shampoo/steam/deep cleaners. Amazing that this appliance has not been tested and reviewed yet. Anybody listening?

[mary]

oh boy, no reveiw on carpet cleaners, that was the main reason i bought the online consumer report. first day, first time and lost money.

[Chris]

yep - me too.

[Tina]

We rely on Consumer Reports before we buy almost all big ticket items. I too am surprised there is no rating on carpet steamers. I actually almost bought one last week but put it back since I hadn't checked CR first.

I think your customers are screaming from the rooftops! We want you to test carpet cleaners/steamers and give us some feedback. Or are they all so bad that there is nothing good to report?

[Kelly]

I have the the Hoover Steam Vac Dual steam cleaner and it cleans fantastic! I could not decide and although I have area rugs and furniture it was well worth the money! I can do floors too but it only had a squeegee and just wasn't sure so I also bought the deluxe floor mate model. I couldn't be more thrilled! My mom has borrowed and said it cleaned as well as having it professionally I have done. I was disappointed that I had no where to find reviews just on Walmart, Hsn, & Qvc. I bought the Floormate off of Walmart because neither of the home shopping channels had that model downside is no warranty. I did purchase the Steam Vac off of Hsn which you make flex payments and can buy a warranty. The flex payments are really nice in and doesn't seem as bad than forking a good chunk of change in one payment. I'm eyeing that Dyson now. I see CR has reviews on vacuums at least.

[Tammy]

I was going to try emailing CR to see if I could get an answer to Steam Cleaner question. I got tired of jumping through hoops trying to figure out _how_ to do that. CR seems to prefer that you get your answer from the FAQs - even when that answer is not there...

I did, however, find this: CR reviewed Carpet Cleaners/deep-cleaning in Jul 97 - awfully long time ago, but $7.95 for a back issue. No info on when they might be reviewing these again.

[Anita]

Oh no, no reveiw on carpet cleaners, that was the reason I bought the online consumer report. First day, first time and lost money. Where the information for carpet shampooers. Please Help Me!!!

[Danny]

Please complete the carpet steamers review. Thanks.

[BJR]

Can't believe there are STILL no reviews from Consumer Reports on carpet cleaners. Why? I keep checking every couple of months to see if anything has changed...but no.

To those looking for reviews, I have tried Amazon and read some reviews there. However it would be nice to read a professional reveiw that tested a variety of cleaners and rated them.

Hopefully CR will review some soon or I doubt I will renew my subscription. Has anyone compared or owned the Brissol 2X pro pet cleaner to the Hoover heated dual tank cleaner? I really would like to buy a cleaner for Christmas.

[Luci]

I subscribed on-line almost a year ago, precisely to get a rating for a carpet cleaner and still nothing from CR. Also, still no cleaner so I'm going out today and take my chances. Good Luck you other "in the dark shoppers"!!