I got this Bissell mini-shampooer when I bought my car; it was also because I was getting a puppy. It was on sale for 49.99. However, I have seen it sold for 69.99 or more.
The more expensive model has a built-in heater to keep the water warm and a TurboBrush head (similar to the rotating TurboBrush I bought for my vacuum.) The standard head is a “Stain Brush” that is just stationary bristles behind the slot you suck stuff up with. Which I think is bad place because you cannot really use it for scrubbing as well as you could if it were in front and detachable (or be at more of an angle).
I like the angle of the sprayer for water and cleaning solution. It comes out below “Stain Brush”. It could pump out more water per spray but it does an okay job as is.
I started with the inside of my car, shampooing both the carpets and seats. The only problem I had was with the divots and corners. It does okay it just takes some effort.
I had the same problem with the divots when using it on my couch/love-seat/chair (around the buttons). All-in-all it works good.
The scrubber on the wand could be better or be in a more useful place. The button you push to take off the thing on the hose could be easier too. I have pinched my finger on that thing many times.
The water tank holds a good amount of water. I only have to refill once (maybe twice) when cleaning my car. Any bigger and it would be too heavy. As it is now, I can toss it around with no problem. I hate having to ask someone bigger to get something down or move it for me (because I am small), and I know other smaller people hate it too. We like being able to do stuff without depending on a big person, lol.
The Dirty Water tank needs to be emptied quite often, there is a line (half full) on it that if you let the dirty water get higher than the machine doesn’t work as well ( I know this for a fact, I let it go over the line to see what happened and it stopped sucking).
I frequently have problems with the sprayer, it will not spray sometimes. I have no idea how I fix it but eventually it starts. I think the pressure had to build before it sprays, but sometimes it does right when I turn it on.
The suction could be better too, for all the noise this machine makes you’d think it would suck the spots off a Dalmatian, lol. However, it does not even seem to be as powerful as a normal vacuum.
The User’s Guide says you should run clean water through the machine before you put it away. This cleans any junk out of the inner workings of the machine. I will admit I hardly ever did this.
My Little Green Machine served me well for years but sadly, it has kicked the bucket. I did not clean it as well as I should have and I had used it when we had a flood inside (the house next to us burned down and my house was flooded with the water they used to put the house fire out) and it just couldn’t handle that nasty water.
The model I have is no longer being made by Bissell, now they have new model. It is pretty much the same as my machine just more “green”
Little Green®
• $74.99 Add To CartGreen Little Green
The thorough, effective and convenient deep cleaner for tasks large and small.
• strong spray and suction clean and help dry in one step
• long power cord and compact design make cleaning hard-to-reach areas easy
• now with PVC free tanks and hose and the carton contains a minimum of 75% recycled material
Friday, May 23, 2008
*New* Clean & Clear Oil-Free Daily Moisturizer SPF15
“Softens, Protects, and Keeps Pores Clear”
It is supposed to be light formula and have a moisturizing complex to replenish the skin without added heavy ingredients.
This Daily Moisturizer is part of the Clean & Clear Bzz Campaign I mentioned in the “In-Shower Facial” and came in my Bzz Kit. I have been using it everyday (even if I did not use the “In-Shower Facial”) for about three weeks.
It works okay, it does make my skin soft. However, it is somewhat greasy. The bottle says oil-free but it has some kind residue that stays ont he skin for hours. It is not that bad though, not enough to make me stop using it.
I like the dispenser and that you can take off the pump to reveal a decent size hole (for when it is low and the pump does not pump anything out but there is still some there).
My biggest problem with it is the SPF. Why so low (15), everyone knows that if it isn’t 45 or higher you shouldn’t bother. So people that are worried about that stuff (not me I hardly ever wear sunscreen) will have to apply some other SPF product.
It is supposed to be light formula and have a moisturizing complex to replenish the skin without added heavy ingredients.
This Daily Moisturizer is part of the Clean & Clear Bzz Campaign I mentioned in the “In-Shower Facial” and came in my Bzz Kit. I have been using it everyday (even if I did not use the “In-Shower Facial”) for about three weeks.
It works okay, it does make my skin soft. However, it is somewhat greasy. The bottle says oil-free but it has some kind residue that stays ont he skin for hours. It is not that bad though, not enough to make me stop using it.
I like the dispenser and that you can take off the pump to reveal a decent size hole (for when it is low and the pump does not pump anything out but there is still some there).
My biggest problem with it is the SPF. Why so low (15), everyone knows that if it isn’t 45 or higher you shouldn’t bother. So people that are worried about that stuff (not me I hardly ever wear sunscreen) will have to apply some other SPF product.
*NEW* Clean & Clear In-shower Facial
“Works in your shower to detoxify, smooth, and soften skin in one minute.”
I have always liked the Clean&Clear brand so I did not think twice about accepting the invitation to the Bzz Campaign (I am a BzzAgent) for their new product (In-Shower Facial).
It uses the “steam” of the shower to assist the purifying formula to clean your pores deeply.
I am glad that I am one of those people that read the directions before using a new product. Because the directions for this In-Shower Facial is a little different then a “Facial Scrub”. With a facial scrub you “massage or rub-in” as you apply, but with this you apply generously and with minimum strokes. Then let it sit for one minute. That is when you massage it in, this “activates” the exfoliating breads. Warning: Do not get this stuff in your eyes, or too close to them. It is nasty. (Rinse eyes with water right away if you get it in your eyes)
I really like the way my face feels after using it. Very smooth. However, I have noticed a down side. In the directions, it casually says to use it two-three times a week. It should have the words “only” in bold letters. Now I am not an acne prone person, nor do I have a problem with pimples more than the average women. But, when I used it three times a week, it seemed to make me break-out, and not with little pimples but those under-the-skin kind. I stopped using it and things went back to normal in days. After my face had recovered I tried the In-Shower Facial again, except only once a week this time (making sure to use six-seven days apart) and I did not have that problem. In fact, every now and then, I use it twice a week and there is no problem.
Lesson learned there, START with once a week and work your way up.
I tried letting it “sit” long then a minute on my face to see if that had any affect (like hair conditioner). It did not, so there is no need to leave it longer then one minute.
Made by Johnson & Johnson
I have always liked the Clean&Clear brand so I did not think twice about accepting the invitation to the Bzz Campaign (I am a BzzAgent) for their new product (In-Shower Facial).
It uses the “steam” of the shower to assist the purifying formula to clean your pores deeply.
I am glad that I am one of those people that read the directions before using a new product. Because the directions for this In-Shower Facial is a little different then a “Facial Scrub”. With a facial scrub you “massage or rub-in” as you apply, but with this you apply generously and with minimum strokes. Then let it sit for one minute. That is when you massage it in, this “activates” the exfoliating breads. Warning: Do not get this stuff in your eyes, or too close to them. It is nasty. (Rinse eyes with water right away if you get it in your eyes)
I really like the way my face feels after using it. Very smooth. However, I have noticed a down side. In the directions, it casually says to use it two-three times a week. It should have the words “only” in bold letters. Now I am not an acne prone person, nor do I have a problem with pimples more than the average women. But, when I used it three times a week, it seemed to make me break-out, and not with little pimples but those under-the-skin kind. I stopped using it and things went back to normal in days. After my face had recovered I tried the In-Shower Facial again, except only once a week this time (making sure to use six-seven days apart) and I did not have that problem. In fact, every now and then, I use it twice a week and there is no problem.
Lesson learned there, START with once a week and work your way up.
I tried letting it “sit” long then a minute on my face to see if that had any affect (like hair conditioner). It did not, so there is no need to leave it longer then one minute.
Made by Johnson & Johnson
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Are you ready for DTV?
If you watch TV at all, you have heard by now that in 2009 TV stations transmitting in HD and TV’s with antennas will need a converter box.
If you have a paid TV service like satellite or cable you should be okay (find out by calling the company). However, if you have an older TV (bought before 2006) you might want to get a converter box encase you ever want to ditch the paid provider. That way you won’t have to buy a new TV right away.
This whole switch to HD was supposed to happen a while ago, but they couldn’t because it would have left many with dark TV screens. The switch was abandoned when they learned people were not willing to buy a $40 -$80 box or a new TV to watch TV that should be free.
That is why this time they are giving out $40.00 coupons (debt cards) to people that sign up for them. The average price for a converter box is $45.00, maybe lower when it gets closer to the switch date, so you may end up paying something for a box.
To sign up for your coupon (up to two per household) go to DTVAnswers.com and fill out the form.
I finally signed up for my (and for few friends) coupons about a month ago. When I was talking to a Rep from the phone number, I was told that it won’t show up until may. This was because all the coupons they had already issued had problems and people were not able to use them. To fix the problem they had to cancel all the ones already sent and resend them.
I thought the coupons would be “coupons”, but the $40.00 comes in a one-time-use pre-paid debt card(s) with no name on it (at least that is what the rep said). To me that it just asking for thievery. I have not heard how they are going to prevent people from using them for something other than converter boxes.
Note: If you are going to sign a friend up for coupons, make sure they (or someone else) hasn’t already done it. You could mess things up for them. Their name could be flagged because it looks like they are trying to get more then two. That is why I had to call the number; my brother-in-law had already signed up his mom and did not tell her, so when she did it they gave her a hard time (I fixed it).
If you have a paid TV service like satellite or cable you should be okay (find out by calling the company). However, if you have an older TV (bought before 2006) you might want to get a converter box encase you ever want to ditch the paid provider. That way you won’t have to buy a new TV right away.
This whole switch to HD was supposed to happen a while ago, but they couldn’t because it would have left many with dark TV screens. The switch was abandoned when they learned people were not willing to buy a $40 -$80 box or a new TV to watch TV that should be free.
That is why this time they are giving out $40.00 coupons (debt cards) to people that sign up for them. The average price for a converter box is $45.00, maybe lower when it gets closer to the switch date, so you may end up paying something for a box.
To sign up for your coupon (up to two per household) go to DTVAnswers.com and fill out the form.
I finally signed up for my (and for few friends) coupons about a month ago. When I was talking to a Rep from the phone number, I was told that it won’t show up until may. This was because all the coupons they had already issued had problems and people were not able to use them. To fix the problem they had to cancel all the ones already sent and resend them.
I thought the coupons would be “coupons”, but the $40.00 comes in a one-time-use pre-paid debt card(s) with no name on it (at least that is what the rep said). To me that it just asking for thievery. I have not heard how they are going to prevent people from using them for something other than converter boxes.
Note: If you are going to sign a friend up for coupons, make sure they (or someone else) hasn’t already done it. You could mess things up for them. Their name could be flagged because it looks like they are trying to get more then two. That is why I had to call the number; my brother-in-law had already signed up his mom and did not tell her, so when she did it they gave her a hard time (I fixed it).
Google Product Search
Since reading that using “price comparing wesbites” before you buy online may affect the price you pay, I have been using them regliouslly.
Google’s Product Search uses search technology to search stores throughout the internet so you can compare before buying. You can compare everyday products to the most unusual.
When you do a regular web search with words that could be a product, example: massage tools, an excerpt of results from a Google Product Search are display just above the Web Search results.
I do a Google Product Search before I buy anything. If it is on another “price comparing” website it is usually comes up in a Google Product Search. I still use other sites, but this is the one to start with.
Results include listings from: eBay, Amazon, BestBuy, etc, and smaller stores (which sometimes have better prices).
Most of the stores, are rated and you and filter out lower rated stores from your search. You can also filter the results by price range and category. Search results usually have pictures.
I Have not been able to find a link to do a Google product search from www.google.com, however you just do a search with the words “google product search” and it will be listed first on the results.
I am sure Gmail, Google Homepage users will know what I am talking about and know where to find it.
In the “About Google Product Search” section it says that sellers do not pay to be listed (come up in search results). They claim that make them unbiased. Google does not make a commission on the sales either (so they say), they say that they make there money with the “sponsored” ads too the right of the results.
Note: Google Product Search is provided AS IS. This is still in Beta stage so it will get better!
Google’s Product Search uses search technology to search stores throughout the internet so you can compare before buying. You can compare everyday products to the most unusual.
When you do a regular web search with words that could be a product, example: massage tools, an excerpt of results from a Google Product Search are display just above the Web Search results.
I do a Google Product Search before I buy anything. If it is on another “price comparing” website it is usually comes up in a Google Product Search. I still use other sites, but this is the one to start with.
Results include listings from: eBay, Amazon, BestBuy, etc, and smaller stores (which sometimes have better prices).
Most of the stores, are rated and you and filter out lower rated stores from your search. You can also filter the results by price range and category. Search results usually have pictures.
I Have not been able to find a link to do a Google product search from www.google.com, however you just do a search with the words “google product search” and it will be listed first on the results.
I am sure Gmail, Google Homepage users will know what I am talking about and know where to find it.
In the “About Google Product Search” section it says that sellers do not pay to be listed (come up in search results). They claim that make them unbiased. Google does not make a commission on the sales either (so they say), they say that they make there money with the “sponsored” ads too the right of the results.
Note: Google Product Search is provided AS IS. This is still in Beta stage so it will get better!
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Garnier Fructis Leave-in Conditioning Cream Sleek&Shine Collection
For fizzy, dry and/or unmanageable hair.
10 fl oz New long lasting formula
I really love the serum in the GF’s Sleek & Shine collection, and I only bought this because there wasn’t any serum on the shelf. I figured it was in the same “Collection” so it should work about he same. However, I did not like this cream as much. In the end, the results are the same, which is what really counts. However, I have a few complaints (as well as likes).
Complaint: There is a fine line between the right amount and too much. If you use too much it feels as if you did not rise out your conditioner. Of course, once your hair dries, it does not feel that way.
With the pop-up dispenser cap, you have to remember to close it when you are done other wise it might dry out (like lotion does). And I have a problem remembering to do that. Less forgetful people will not have this problem, lol.
You cannot stand it upside-down when it is getting empty. You can if you lean it against something, but it would be more convenient if it would stand up on its own.
Likes: I like the bottle/dispenser. The bottle is not too fat, easy to hold and squeeze.
The scent it nice, and similar to other GF products (all there products have a similar smell, I wonder if they have “signature scent”? If so, they should make it know).
With this cream you can add a little bit of water when the bottle is about 3/4 empty, to stretch it. Doing this does not affect the results.
The results are great so I will continue to use it.
I wonder why they made it last longer; the old formula lasted long (18 to 24 hours).
10 fl oz New long lasting formula
I really love the serum in the GF’s Sleek & Shine collection, and I only bought this because there wasn’t any serum on the shelf. I figured it was in the same “Collection” so it should work about he same. However, I did not like this cream as much. In the end, the results are the same, which is what really counts. However, I have a few complaints (as well as likes).
Complaint: There is a fine line between the right amount and too much. If you use too much it feels as if you did not rise out your conditioner. Of course, once your hair dries, it does not feel that way.
With the pop-up dispenser cap, you have to remember to close it when you are done other wise it might dry out (like lotion does). And I have a problem remembering to do that. Less forgetful people will not have this problem, lol.
You cannot stand it upside-down when it is getting empty. You can if you lean it against something, but it would be more convenient if it would stand up on its own.
Likes: I like the bottle/dispenser. The bottle is not too fat, easy to hold and squeeze.
The scent it nice, and similar to other GF products (all there products have a similar smell, I wonder if they have “signature scent”? If so, they should make it know).
With this cream you can add a little bit of water when the bottle is about 3/4 empty, to stretch it. Doing this does not affect the results.
The results are great so I will continue to use it.
I wonder why they made it last longer; the old formula lasted long (18 to 24 hours).
Monday, May 5, 2008
What Store Brands Do You Buy?
I want to know what your local “store brands” are. I assume chain stores like Wal-Mart, Kmart,etc.. all carry the same “store brand or off-brand”. Example: Wal-Mart’s Ol’ Roy’s Dog Food.
I watch a lot of TV, and some of that TV is cooking shows ( the best is Ammerica’s Test Kitchen on PBS) and when ever they test store brands, they usually find that they are just as good as most name brands.
I buy and use store brands but do not “review” them because I am unsure of what brands to go with. That is why I want to know what your local store brands are. If you do leave your store brand for me, please leave the store as well as the brand, Example: Ol’ Roy’s dog Food = Wal-Mart
I watch a lot of TV, and some of that TV is cooking shows ( the best is Ammerica’s Test Kitchen on PBS) and when ever they test store brands, they usually find that they are just as good as most name brands.
I buy and use store brands but do not “review” them because I am unsure of what brands to go with. That is why I want to know what your local store brands are. If you do leave your store brand for me, please leave the store as well as the brand, Example: Ol’ Roy’s dog Food = Wal-Mart
Trident’s Minty Sweet Twist Gum
www.tridentgum.com
18 sticks to a package
It has been a long time since I have chewed Trident gum. Not because I do not like it, I just haven’t bought any. When I’d seen there was a new flavor (at least the box says “new”, lol) I decided to give it a try.
Just holding the package takes me back to my many winters at Grandma and Grandpa’s (live in Arizona, which is why we visited in the winter). She ALWAYS had Trident gum, in a kitchen cabinet. There was a stack of Trident packages (of all flavors). Whenever we went shopping, we each grabbed a pack and usually chewed all of the gum shopping. Very happy memories.
I have no idea what Xylitol is, but it has it in it (I Will look it up and put at the bottom of this post what it is). The box says to fight cavities. Which it probably does. I NEVER had a cavity as a child and I chewed a lot of Trident gum ( and other brands of gum, to be fair).
I know my Grandma likes this brand because it comes sugar-free or low in sugar, the back of the box says it is 30% lower in sugar then regular sugared gum. And, less calories (from 5 to 3 1/2 calories). I hate that it has Aspartame and that is why I stopped chewing it. I had memory loss when I bought this gum.
I am not a mint person, but I liked this flavor. It was not real minty, but a creamy mint taste. More “winter fresh” minty then “spearmint” minty.
I gave it a chance because the mint that was pictured on the box was blue (good marketing). The flavor does not last too long, but it does not taste too bad when the flavor is all gone.
I like the new packaging. I have no idea how new it is since I haven’t bought it in a while. Before, the packaging was soft. So when you took a piece out you had to fold the packaging over to close it and keep the rest of the sticks from falling out. This packaging is a box with flap that has a secure way to close it. Thumbs up to the change. When I went to open it I was fooled. the ends have foil and, it looks like you have to slide the sticks out of the cardboard. But the open flap in on the back.
I have always hated the size of trident gum. it is too small. They should not be allowed to call them “sticks”. I bet all 18 of the trident size sticks of gum equal to about two sticks of a Wrigley’s size piece of gum. I am thinking about testing that theory and buying another package of trident and one of Wrigley’s. Chew the whole package of trident in one shot, place the chewed ball of gum aside and chew one piece of Wrigley has and place it next to trident ball.
Would it be to gross if I posted pictures of this experiment?
http://www.xylitol.org/
What is Xylitol?
Pure xylitol is a white crystalline substance that looks and tastes like sugar. On food labels, xylitol is classified broadly as a carbohydrate and more narrowly as a polyol. Because xylitol is only slowly absorbed and partially utilized, a reduced calorie claim is allowed: 2.4 calories per gram or 40% less than other carbohydrates.
Xylitol has been used in foods since the 1960’s. It is a popular sweetener for the diabetic diet in some countries. In the U.S., xylitol is approved as a food additive in unlimited quantity for foods with special dietary purposes.
Over 25 years of testing in widely different conditions confirm that xylitol is the best sweetener for teeth. Xylitol use reduces tooth decay rates both in high-risk groups (high caries prevalence, poor nutrition, and poor oral hygiene) and in low risk groups (low caries incidence using all current prevention recommendations). Sugarfree chewing gums and candies made with xylitol as the principal sweetener have already received official endorsements from six national dental associations.
Go to the site to read the rest!!
I cannot say how accurate the info is on this site, but most of the ones I have visited say the same thing.
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