Inside Consumer Reports Test Labs: Reviews of vacuums from Oreck, Garry, Bissell, and Eureka

As part of the testing for our continuously updated ratings of upright and canister vacuums (available to subscribers), our testers come across all kinds of claims from manufacturers.

The Oreck Halo, $600, whose claims we covered in this June post, uses the same UV technology the company bought from Halo Technologies, maker of the Halo UVX upright we tested last year. "Halo Technologies," we reported then, "says its uprights, including the $400 UVX, kill dust mites, flea eggs, and germs using UV light. We didn't test those claims because the UVX was only so-so at the more primary tasks of cleaning carpets and picking up pet hair." So was the Oreck Halo, which excelled only at cleaning bare floors and keeping emissions low. What's more, the Oreck Halo weighs 19 pounds, more than Oreck uprights we've tested in the past.

Among other recently tested models are the Bissell Lift-Off Multi-Cyclonic Pet 89Q9 (shown), $180, and the Eureka Whirlwind+ Pet Lover 3276, $120, both designed with pet owners in mind. The Bissell, like earlier Lift-Off models, has a modular motor/bin assembly that detaches for use as a canister vacuum or a heavy handheld. As a standard upright, however, it fell short of the Eureka in carpet cleaning, vacuuming with tools, and some other tests—including pet-hair pickup, for which the Eureka was excellent.

The Garry Ultra Light vacuum, $200 without shipping, sold through infomercials and at www.garryvac.com, was also among the latest batch of tested models. The manufacturer touts that this vacuum can cut cleaning time because it picks up everything on the first pass and that it can clean the air and kill germs. What's more, the maker's current pitch promises free bags for life, a free (before $30 shipping) steam mop, and a no-hassle guarantee of a free replacement vacuum if you ever have a problem, no matter what.

Get more details on this model by reading "Inside Consumer Reports Test Labs: The Garry Upright Vacuum Is a Lightweight . . . In More Ways Than One."—Ed Perratore | e-mail | Twitter | Forums | Facebook

Essential information: If you're in the market for a new vacuum cleaner, check out our free buyer's guide, which also includes ratings of hand and stick vacuums.

Comments

[goldie ellis]

wanted to compare Shark steam mop to Haan steam mops. Disappointed could not find info.

[Carol]

No information about any kind os steam mops...very disappointed. Would like to purchase one - but unsure of what to get.

[Sioux Stoeckle]

Hi,
I am trying to decide if either a steam or a vapor cleaner actually works on floor surfaces. Cannot find reviews of Shark, Haan, or Bissell.

[TJ Thompson]

Nothing on Shark Steam Mop

[Julie Ward]

I too am looking for information on steam mops and found nothing here. I was surprised! Please check into them.

[DLB]

Yet another person looking for information on steam mops and finding nothing. It's the reason I joined this web site. The only thing I found was an article about a recall on steam mops made by Thane. How about a review of the ones made by Shark, Haan, and Bissell. Please?

[2newfies]

Count me in as considering a steam mop to replace my aging Hoover Floormate, and very disappointed to find no information.

[Cindy]

I was searching for some info on steam mops and carpet steam cleaners and didn't find any useful info. I would like to purchase one or both in the near future.

[Larry Kirk]

Need information on floor steam cleaners / mops. So I can make an informed choice of the best one too purchase.

[Steve & LInda]

I read that Consumer Reports was doing research on the STEAM floor cleaners... ie Shark, Haan, or Bissell - and thought the article said to look for it in June/July of 2009. I am very sad to not be able to find ANY information. When I originally purchased a subscription to this website... you got access to everthing.. now? I fell I am being nickled & dimed to death! The idea that I have to purchase for motorized scooter information... by joining health consumer org?... This is not drugs... or hospital information... THIS IS TRANSPORTATION.. like a bike.. or a car... would be! I feel this website is starting to go downhill! In this day and age... of an economy slide... it would be nice to count on Consumer Reports... for the reliable source it was years ago.. and not this new attitude of squeezing every penny out of your subscribers!

signed... VERY Disapointed!

[Sharon]

Why no ratings on steam mops? They have been on the market for a while.

[Jan]

Was hoping to find ratings on steam mops. Truly need one for new wood floor and know nothing about them. Guess I'll look elsewhere. Pity, because I've trusted your info for over 30 years.

[Darla Paul]

Would love to see a review of steam mops!

[R Wagner]

I agree with the comments about steam mops. We purchased an early model and were pleased with its cleaning results. Unfortunately, it was somewhat flimsy, and failed after about a year. Now I'm looking for reviews & recommendations in order to make a more-informed choice. No help here at Consumer Reports - disappointing.

[DONNA]

no info on steam mops. really would have liked to know before a purchase is made!

[very surprised]

I'm trying to decide on if I should buy a steam mop from Monster, Haan or Eureka. The research I've done has all been very confusing. I was counting on Consumer Reports to make it clear to me which one was the best. Now what do I do? Come on CR, can't you see there is a need for this information?

[Ava Evans-DeCarlo]

I join the others oh great Consumer Reports, why haven't you any info about steam mops???

[Roxanne]

Another steam mop shopper and CR subscriber disappointed about no reviews on this product type. Looks like you folks have a new project to work on! (hint hint)

[JENNIFER]

I, TOO, AM LOOKING FOR RATINGS ON STEAM MOPS. CONSUMER REPORTS, PLEASE REVIEW & REPORT!!!

[Bradley]

Nothing on Shark Steam Mop.I am trying to decide if either a steam or a vapor cleaner actually works on floor surfaces

[Annette]

Count me in too! I am looking for a steam mop as well!

[joe]

regarding the above steam cleaner comments, I agree with them as I am considering one for my wife for Christmas (her wish). Would like to know if a report is forthcoming or is this being ignored as 'seen on tv' stuff, or not considered at all. CU has been a part of our family for over 40 years both by sub and magazine purchases. I hope CU isn't going the way of the dodo bird or selling out

[JAR]

Looking for recommendations and comparison datqa for steam mop from all manufacturers. When might this be available?

[Mike]

It would be nice to see information from CR on steam mops. We will wait to purchase pending your reviews of the available products....

[Arlene]

I would like to purchase a steam cleaner or steam mop and have looked on Consumers Reports several times for information and guidance, but nothing. Please review steam cleaners and provide some help before I purchase! Thanks.

[Kevin]

I am also looking for info on steam mops. We've had one before and liked it until in broke. Then we bought a dry/wet hard floor vacuum. Doesn't seem to work as well. Now that it's been a while since we've had a steam mop, we are hoping to find some improved designs.

It's disappointing the CR doesn't have any info on steam vacs!

[Cindy]

I need reviews on steam mops!

[Tom]

You used to have timely reviews of products, not any more... I join the list of disappointed subscribers looking for information on steam mops.

[Daniel Fleischman]

Why no ratings on steam mops? They have been on the market for a while.

[Bart]

Need info on steam mops please!

[Sharon]

I am trying to decide between the Shark Steam Pocket Mop and the Haan. I thought Consumer Reports would for sure have information to help me. Let down.

[CR]

Also interested in steam mop. Is it safe, personal and floor? Does it work as well as detergents? Is is "green"?

[Gail]

I'm interested in steam cleaners and would appreciate product tested reviews by an idependent consumer product testing organization- that's you. I'm leery of internet product reviews. I am a subscriber for over 25 years. I have refered to your ratings for a wide range of purchases over the years. I am very disappointed that you have not researched these products as of yet. Since I'm considering purchasing a quality steamer, it's a costly investment of several hundred dollars. I'm not sure if it's actually worth the extra money, especially if they break down quickly and need costly repairs. Perhaps, I should be considering a high end model for better satisfaction, but I'm not sure they're worth it either? They cost a thousand and more. Green cleaning is the way to go. So, why not consider rating steam cleaners? With the holidays a month away, many more consumers will be searching for your recommendations.

[Mary Lou]

I heard a lot of good information on the Hahn from friends. I too would like a review of all of them to make a decision.

[trish]

No reviews on steam mops? Looking to buy one, but always check with you first. When are you going to review these products?
Disappointed

[Wendy]

I too have looked here several times now for steam mop information, and would love it if CR would do a review of these soon!

[Joanne]

Many months ago I wrote concerning steam mops. I received a reply from you stating you would be doing a steam mop comparison with recommendations in June 2009. I was specifically interested in the recommendation (or not) for laminated wood floors. I am still looking and waiting.

[Jane]

I am waiting for steam mops too ! Shark, Haan, bissell, Eureka, Kenmore etc. I've been checking for months - waiting for a review. And I can't believe there hasn't been a response back from consumer reports - letting us know an update. I'm the 28th commenter in the month of October alone. I figure - there is many more looking for each posted comment.

[carolyn]

Yes, I also would like info on Steam machine, since I have lung issues this would be a benefit for me, I subscribed too both the web & magazine for this & others so I am very dissappointed.

[lisa]

steam mop reviews needed.

[Lora]

I also was hoping to find reviews of steam mops - Sharp and others. Guess I'll just have to pay the $100 and see for myself.

[acadianaspice]

We use Consumer Reports faithfully. We are extremely disappointed on the fact you have no information about steam mops. Need to get one soon, and really depended on CS reports for decision breaker, or new choice all together.

[Ted D]

I agree with the other comments...where are the reviews for steam mops??? Another reason for me to cancel my subscription...you are "Consumer Reports" for Cripes sake of you don't have it who does?

[Ted D]

I agree with the other comments...where are the reviews for Steam Mops??? You are "Consumer Reports" for Cripes sake, it's what you do...just another reason to cancel my subscription.

[Karen]

Steam mops...I too am interesting in getting one and want to know if their are worth the money. The tv commericals makes them look great but will they damage your hardwood and porcelain floors after a time??

[Lauren]

I have been waiting months for floor steamer reviews & have been disappointed with Consumer Reports as well. I have been a subscriber online and the magazine for years, and recently I have noticed that CR is trying to make money from other publications, branching out in to other areas. Since the economy isn't good, I have canceled all of my magazine subscriptions, except for CR.
The reason I have been disheartened is that while CR has been focusing on branching out in to other areas to make more money, the quality has gone down and is spread so thin that it cannot deliver the same quality as it used to. I have learned of other review sites for electronics, general and household items, since I find the organization not to be quite as reliable.

[B Allen]

I am looking into buying a steam mop but cannot locate any information on your website...for such a common household product, I am disappointed that CR had no information available. Is this information going to be available any time soon or am I on my own?

[MIKE]

"DITTO"...NO INFO ON STEAM MOPS....CAN YOU GET SOME REVIEWS ??

[Paul]

Steam mops?

[Joyce]

Very interested in the steam mop. I have a lot of BARE floors, wood and ceramic and I am looking for an easier, cleaner way to clean them. Is there a link I should be using to locate the information I wanted? If so, please send to me via email. If you have not done a comparison of steam mops as yet, when you do, would you please send out an email as well? I was disappointed that no ratings have been done as yet. Thank you in advance.

[Cindy]

Why isn't there info on steam mops?!?! I want to buy one but always check your ratings and reviews first! Help!

[Sweeney]

Where are the steam mop reviews. It seems CR concentrates on large appliances (washers,dryers, etc) cars and electronics now. Have become disillusioned with CR after being subscribers for at least 30 years.

[Sean]

Time to wake up CR. I thought I was the only disgruntled subscriber until I searched for steam mops. Our Shark just quit and we are shopping for a new mop.

[Liz]

This is another request to please review steam mops - the information provided would be greatly appreciated!

[LoriAnne]

One more dissatisfied customer looking for information on steam mops. This is obviously a topic that people are interested in. Where's the review???

[jackie]

I TOO AM SEVERLY DISSAPPOINTED W/CR AS I RELY ON YOU TO GV ME INFO FOR BUSINESS EQUPMNT PURCHASES...AND INFO ON STEAM FLOOR MOPS HAS BEEN GLARINGLY MISSING....WHAT GIVES?????? WE PAY MONEY FOR YOUR INDEPENDENT TESTING IN A TIMELY FASHION, AND THESE HV BN OUT FOR QUITE AWHILE....WHY THE STALL????? I PROBABLY WILL NOT RENEW ONLINE SUB. IF I CANT EVEN GET A SIMPLE REVIEW ON A TOOL NEEDED AS IS OBVIOUS BY THE LIST ABOVE BY QUITE A FEW PEOPLE...CHEAPER TO GET THE MAG ONCE IN AWHILE....

[Erinraye]

I am really interested in the steam cleaners for floors and other surfaces.I would especially like information on the Oreck Steam It. How well do these steam cleaners really work? I am very diasapointed there was no information on these.

[Karen Kiesewetter]

Need a steam mop. Which one to buy???????

[JK]

DITTO Lauren - Oct, 31, 2009 Very disappointed

[Frankie]

Wow, I was disappointed to find no steam mop reviews on CR.org, and I am not alone!

I was specifically wondering about a more-affordable steam mop, the Lysol Conair Steam Cleaning Mop, which is about $35-$40 as far as I can tell.

[Mimi]

No info on steam mops, as long as they have been out? Guess there's no reason to subscribe, now.

[amy]

also wanted a steam mop review and am shocked that there is not one!

[CAROLYN]

what is disheartening is to read 1 month of consumer responses and no reply from CR, esp as CR said there would be a report in June. any body reading this?

[andrea]

need steam mop info asap! very dissapointed as they have been around for a while

[Krista]

Like the others I am very disappointed to find that there has not been a study on steam cleaning mops. Please give us some information. Thanks!

[KG]

We are your customers and like others that have requested ratings on the steam cleaners.. I am also disappointed to see there is still NO information. If anyone has purchased steam cleaners, perhaps you would give us your personal experience.. good or bad and we can come up with our own rating based on those recommendations and can move on with our purchases.

[Chris]

I too would like to see a review on steam mops. Was thinking about asking for one for Christmas, but not sure if I should now since no report has been done on them.

[Shirley]

I purchase CR today to fing info on Steam Mops and i see nothing what gives?

[Angie R]

Wow. Can't believe there is no review for steam mops even after all of these comments....What gives? I only subscirbe so I can research a few items a year!

[Betty]

I also just tried to find info on steam mops especially their claim that they are good for laminate floors

[Linda Cuvertino]

I, too, want info on steam mops!!

[JIM HUNNEWELL]

I REALLY WANTED TO FIND INFO ON STEAM MOPS, BUT CONSUMER REPORTS HAS ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. I AM AT THE POINT OF NEEDING TO RENEW MY SUBSCRIPTION ONLINE, BUT THIS IS THE SECOND TIME I LOOKED FOR INFO AND CR ONLINE HAD NOTHING.

I AM REALLY DISAPPOINTED. WOULD SOMEONE PLEASE GIVE US RELIABLE INFO ON THIS SUBJECT. THANKS

[Steam Mop Wanted]

I have been waiting for steam mop reviews for a very long time. Where are they and why is it taking so long? Consumer Reports don't fail me now!

[Litishia]

I was not surprised to see all the comments about missing steam mop reviews as I was also surprised that this product has not been reviewed. I am assuming we should see a review soon if Consumer Reports cares about the views of its subscribers.

[Pam Staun]

I want my $5.95 back! Joined to get steam mop review. Very disappointed!

[Mary]

What's up? Still no review on steam mops? Very disappointed, along with everyone else, to look for information and not have it available. Am I looking in the right category?

[Pamela Roach]

You have been receiving e-mails from your customers since 10/7/09 requesting a report on steam mops. Can't you give us any information? By return e-mail? I need to purchase one right away. Please respond.

[winoceros]

Why no steam mop reviews? Holidays coming up....please help!!! Going elsewhere.

[Gale]

Why don't you rate steam mops? Or at least comment as to why you haven't.

[Marie]

Like many others, LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON STEAM MOP!!!!!