PITTSBURGH,None — Consumer Investigator Robin Taylor put four vacuums to the test priced from $60 to $200. Two are designed to pick up pet hair. The other two are lightweight models.
The test began at the Molyneaux store where Ron Cuprick volunteered to help out.
The vacuums tested included the Eureka Optima, which retails for $60. The Hoover Windtunnel Pet Rewind listed for around $140. The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser priced for $150. And the most expensive vacuum in the test, the 8-pound Oreck costs $200.
Our first test is for anyone who has children. In the test Taylor and Cuprick spilled Rice Krispies, and then grinded them in the carpet.
All four vacuums performed well on this relatively simple test.
The next test involved pet hair. Taylor used clumps of fur from a groomer. If the test was performed in a normal setting, the pet hair would be imbedded in the carpet.
The Hoover and Bissell are specifically designed to pick up pet hair, but in the test they didn't do any better than the lightweight vacuums. The Oreck did especially well.
"I think it did a great job," said Cuprick "I think so too," Taylor added. "And it's light weight. I think it picked up better than any of them," Cuprick continued.
Finally, we picked up the really tough stuff, kitty litter. The Eureka, which promises to perform as well as a full-sized upright lived up to claims. "I don't feel any kitty litter left behind here," added Taylor.
The Hoover does a decent job, but it takes a few passes.
The Bissell doesn't do any better.
"It's heavier and it doesn't seem to be picking up as much," said Cuprick.
Finally the Oreck glided along picking up all the kitty litter.
All of the vacuums did a good job, but two stood out. The Oreck and the Eureka.
For $60 we give the thumbs up to the Eureka for being the most economical model.
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