Consumer Reports Steam Cleaners
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5 Things That Will Drive You Nuts About Carpet Cleaners, And How To Prevent Them
What is worse than having a tooth drilled at the dentist? To many homeowners it's dealing with carpet cleaning companies. Here is what you can do about the 5 most common complaints people have about carpet cleaners.
-------- Problem: Bait and switch sales tactics. Many carpet cleaners make all sorts of promises to get into my home; then they try to pressure me into buying all sorts of extras that I really don't want. (A quick search on the Internet will reveal dozens of hidden camera consumer reports on these scammers)
Solution: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. You can't clean a carpet for $9.95 per room and stay in business. Ask what is included with the clean and what is not. At a minimum, the price should include:
- Pre-vacuuming, particularly along the baseboards
- Pretreatment of traffic areas
- Steam cleaning equipment that is truck-mounted (not portables or bonnet cleaning)
- Grooming to set the fibers and promote quick drying after the clean
- If you have pet stains or other specific issues, get a rough idea of how much they charge for these services (Hint - Find out if they work in teams. To clean your home, it does not require 2 people; one is there to do most of the work while the other is there to "work on you" for the up-sell)
-------- Problem: Waiting all day for the cleaner to show up. I have a busy schedule and hate to be at the mercy of a carpet cleaner who will not give me a firm time.
Solution: Keep searching until you find one that guarantees a specific time. Alternatively, if your time is worth a lot, offer to pay an additional amount for a timed clean - let's say $50.00. Carpet cleaners like all personal service providers, sell their time. Simply out bid others for your preferred time slot.
-------- Problem: Inexperienced or incompetent cleaner. The cleaner either doesn't want to do what I ask of him, or doesn't know how to do it.
Solution: It is really irrelevant that the company has been in business forever if the technician only has a few days of cleaning experience. When you make your first contact with the cleaner's office, ask which technician has been with the company the longest. Then simply request him by name. If he doesn't arrive at your home, reschedule the work. I predict that he'll be there for your next appointment.
-------- Problem: They don't stand behind their work. They did the work, but it's still dirty in a few spots, and now they won't return my calls.
Solution: Again, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Before you select the cleaner, a few screening questions can minimize these types of issues. Clarify what their guarantees are, and how they work. Give them a few hypothetical scenarios and if you sense there might be an issue, move on to the next company. If any service provider doesn't have a 100% money back satisfaction guarantee posted on their website, you haven't found the right company.
-------- Problem: Theft and personal safety. I'm worried about strangers in my home. Will they steal, will they damage my stuff, will my children and I be safe?
Solution: Many small companies don't conduct pre-employment screening. They also fail to conduct criminal background checks or to verify previous employment. Refer back to the tech's experience level - any employee that causes problems of this nature is probably not with the company anymore. Also ask if they are insured and if they run background checks on the people that will do your work.
When speaking with prospective cleaners, open-ended questions work best. A good format for a question is: "I have a concern about _______, how do you handle that?" Ask clarifying questions, like "Can you tell me more about _______?" or, "Can you give me an example of _______?"
P.S. You can apply these examples to most home service providers and not just carpet cleaners.
About the Author
Fred Terlaak is the CEO and co-founder of Service Depot. Started as an Austin carpet cleaning and restoration service organization, the company has operations in San Antonio, and Houston, Texas. We believe that educated customers become life-time customers. Therefore Service Depot provides technical information on its website to help its customers maintain a safe and clean living environment. For more tips and tools visit => http://www.servicedepotonline.com
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Consumer Reports $26 Consumer Reports magazine educates you in MAKING SMART BUYS AND SAVINGS. Reports on products and services enabling readers to obtain maximum value. Product areas covered include automobiles, electronic equipment, household products, food, personal finance, alcoholic beverages, career planning, home ownership, health and fitness, money management, insurance, travel, recreation, leisure and others. Consumer Reports, an American magazine published monthly by Consumers Union, publishes reviews and comparisons of consumer products and services based on reporting and results from its in-house testing laboratory. It has approximately 4 million subscribers [1], and an annual testing budget of approximately $21 million U.S.[2] The annual Consumer Reports new car issue, released every April, is typically the magazine's best-selling issue and is thought to influence millions of automobile purchases. The equivalent to Consumer Reports in the UK is Which? magazine. In the UK a consumer report is a generic phrase referring to any document informing the consumer about products. It can simply give product descriptions or extend to ethical matters. Check this out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consumer_ReportsConsumer Reports is part of the Business family of magazines. It is generally sold to individuals and businesses and quite often can be found in a reception room or waiting room of a company or a professional office like a dentist, doctor, health club, gym, or beauty and hair salon. A full year magazine subscription to Consumer Reports includes issues delivered right to your mailbox. |
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Health Letter Consumer Reports $24 Consumer Reports on Health is the monthly guide for health products. A monthly report on nutrition and fitness: preventive measures and new treatments: medical breakthrough and medical hype: health frauds and other critical issues.In this monthly newsletter devoted to your health and well being, you'll find helpful, straightforward health information like The facts about fats, 6 ways to cut your medical bills, Myths and facts about herbal medicine, How to manage chronic pain, Healthy habits for hypertension, Which exercise is best for you? Which arthritis treatments really help? Are you headed for a stroke?, and Which vitamin supplements do you really need?Health Letter Consumer Reports is part of the Health family of magazines. It is generally sold to individuals and businesses and quite often can be found in a reception room or waiting room of a company or a professional office like a dentist, doctor, health club, gym, or beauty and hair salon. A full year magazine subscription to Health Letter Consumer Reports includes issues delivered right to your mailbox. |
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Consumer Reports Money Advisor $28.99 Consumer Reports Money Adviser is an unbiased financial magazine. Each issue features tips and strategies to help you maximize your returns, protect your financial interests, and make financial decisions with confidence. This magazine subscription gives you everything you need to know about investing in easy-to-understand language. Invest with confidence, order your subscription today! |
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Consumer Reports On Health $23.99 100% unbiased monthly health newsletter.(No advertising. No commercial ties.) Easy-to-read, carefully researched facts and advice on nutrition, fitness, medication, ailments, illnesses, and medical procedures. Health news you can use to protect and improve your health. |
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Jarden Consumer Solutions Jarden Consumer Solutions Steam Master Iron 4229 $26.55 Steam master iron Spray Mist to remove creases Shot of Steam feature to remove stubborn wrinkles 30 minute auto-Off Drip Free even at low temperatures Self clean for longer lasting steam performance Nonstick soleplate for smooth gliding Soft Touch Grip for your comfort Convenient fingertip controls Storage Strip indicator lets you know when it is cool Brand #: Jarden Consumer Solutions 4229 UPC: 027045692038 Keywords: iron steam master spray & auro off |
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Consumer Reports, 13 issues for 1 year(s) $26 The editorial focus of Consumer Reports is to provide information about different products to general consumers. It evaluates all products on an unchanging and thorough scale to provide a fair evaluation for individuals seeking to purchase. Consumer Reports evaluates a vast array of products ranging from automobiles to microwave ovens, from frozen dinners to insurance policies. Findings are presented in easy-to-read reports that employ the clear, ingenious system of colored dots ranking performance in specific areas. Along with reporting their findings, Consumer Reports offers advice on how to be a better shopper, whether it's how to read a car's price sticker or choose fresh fish. Order now and get 12 issues + the Annual Buying Guide. A $9.99 value! |
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Consumer Reports Buying Guide 2008 (Paperback) $9.89 Rates consumer products from stereos to food processors |
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Electronics Buying Guide 2008 (Consumer Reports) $3.99 Are you in the market for some hot new electronic equipment? Does walking into the store make you dizzy with options? Relax. The experts at Consumer Reports have done your homework for you. Electronics Buying Guide 2008 is an invaluable reference that combines shopping advice, set-up guidance, and user tips for all things electronic! |
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Consumer Informatics $73.92 This comprehensive volume explores the evolving fields of consumer informatics and telemedicine as envisioned by the Institute of Medicine in its landmark reports on the electronic medical record, patient safety, and quality care. Each chapter describes t |
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Consumer Reports Money Advisor, 12 issues for 1 year(s) $29 Consumer Reports Money Advisor is a 100% unbiased monthly financial newsletter. Consumer Reports Money Advisor guarantees you that there will be no advertising and no commercial ties whatsoever. It has very easy-to-read articles, tips and strategies to help you maximize your returns and make your personal financial decisions with confidence. Consumer Reports Money Advisor gives you so much more than dry and "all about number" reporting so prevalent in other publications of this nature. The writers respect that its subscribers want more from a subscription. |
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Jarden Consumer Solutions Jarden Consumer Solutions Classic Steam spray Iron 3017-000 $21.78 Classic steam/spray iron 30 minute timed autooff Nonstick soleplate for smooth gliding Shot-of-steam feature to remove stubborn wrinkles Drip-free even at low temperatures Spray mist Self clean Vertical steam Chrome skirt White Brand #: Jarden Consumer Solutions 3017-000 UPC: 027045690331 Keywords: steam spray iron classic & auto off |
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Steam $8.49 Steam |
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The Cleaners $11.36 In the dark tradition of Los Angeles noir, The Cleaners is the story of a ragtag team of for-hire trauma-scene cleaners led by ex-surgeon Robert Bellarmine. Contracted with sanitizing some of the nastiest crime and accident scenes in the tri-county LA bas |
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SMARTEK ST-X100N Steam Iron $102.99 Light Indicators: Iron On/Off Boiler On/Off Steam Ready On/Off Say goodbye to ironing and step into the world of steaming. Dry cleaners have been utilizing the amazing benefits of steaming for years and the Steam Station allows you to access the same professional results. The Steam Station presses dry steam into the fabric of your clothing, softening the fibers, and smoothing out wrinkles in a fraction of the time. Separate boiler allows the water to quickly reach a higher temperature and dramatically reduce your ironing time. Cork Handle Removable SMARTEK ST-X100N ST-X100N Steam Iron Smartek Steam Iron Yes www.smartekusa.com |
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Applica D1200 Steam Iron $37.99 360° Smart Steam Technology Steam Surge Spray Mist Comfort Grip Handle Enjoy at-a-glance convenience with a Digital Advantage iron. The easy-to-read digital display alerts you to changes in temperature, steam and all your iron settings, for the ultimate convenience. In addition, a vertical steam option lets you fight tough wrinkles without an ironing board, for fantastic results every time. Anti-drip Applica Applica Consumer Products, Inc Auto Shut-off D1200 Digital Advantage D1200 Steam Iron Steam Iron Vertical Steam Yes www.applicainc.com |
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Yorkshire Steam $14.44 Join the staff and volunteers of Britain's most popular Heritage Railway for a year on the line with the North Yorkshire Moors Railway. It's eighteen miles of locomotive heaven, running through some of the most beautiful countryside in Britain. The line'salready familiar to millions through Heartbeat and Harry Potter-but now here's a chance to meet the real people who run this wonderful railway, volunteers like the footplate crews who drive the heavy metal monsters up and down the hills of North Yorkshire. The Permanent Way Gangs who bust a gut on their day off-and the Catering Crew who run a restaurant on wheels. The cleaners who keep the trains spotless and the quiet craftsmen patiently preserving the past, restoring priceless coaches and engines.Experience the Railway's Wartime Weekend, hop on a Santa Special or join the kids crowding the stations to meet Thomas. Meet the volunteers working to bring the A4 locomotive Sir Nigel Gresley back to life-and meet the millionaire who collects steam engines for a hobby. With spectacular aerial photography Yorkshire Steam is a glorious celebration of beautiful scenery, memorable characters and an unforgettable railway. |
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Applica F976 Steam Iron $20.99 1.20 kW 2 Year 2.80 lb 360° Stainless steel soleplate provides added durability and an easy glide with anti drip technology to help prevent spots Automatically generates the right amount of steam for the fabric type selected Anti-drip Applica Applica Consumer Products, Inc Auto Shut-off F976 F976 Steam Iron Stainless Steel Steam Iron Vertical Steam Yes www.applicainc.com |
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Consumer Informatics (Paperback) $82.92 This comprehensive volume explores the evolving fields of consumer informatics and telemedicine as envisioned by the Institute of Medicine in its landmark reports on the electronic medical record, patient safety, and quality care. Each chapter describes the role of computers, technology, and telecommunications as enablers within a specific application focused on the needs of consumers. The applications covered are ones which empower consumers as they seek information, analyze their health care needs, and make decisions about their own health care. Such applications empower professionals in their efforts to serve patients, while increasing the knowledge of the consumer.Richly illustrated with detailed examples, this volume speaks to a wide range of audiences as it addresses issues raised by consumer informatics, the use of technology, research and development effects, and telemedicine. Chapter highlights include: Patient-Centered Communication; Using the Internet Toward Reliable Consumer Health Information; Disease Management and Home Telehealth; and Biothreats and Disaster Management. The book`s audience includes all healthcare professionals, healthcare administrators, IT professionals, health informaticians, and students. |
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Jarden Consumer Solutions Jarden Consumer Solutions Hot-2-trot Compact Iron GCSBTR-100-000 $12.5 Hot-2-trot compact iron All the features of a full size iron in a compact size Variable temperature and nonstick soleplate Spray mist or shot-of-steam Indicator light lets you know when the iron is On Soft touch handle and dial for comfort while ironing 180 swivel cord prevents tangling Dual voltage, 120/220 Brand #: Jarden Consumer Solutions GCSBTR-100-000 UPC: 027045728980 Keywords: compact iron travel & craft steam non stick nonstick |
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History Of British Steam Railways, The (DVD) $16.43 All aboard for a spectacular whistle-stop lour of the History of British Steam Railways! Click the title for more details. All aboard for a spectacular whistle-stop lour of the History of British Steam Railways! All the great steam locomotives of yesteryear are here in their full glory, from the 1815 'Steam Elephant' and Stephenson's 'Rocket' right through to the precious preserved locos now pulling today's mainline steam expresses. The programme includes 'City of Truro' (the tirst steam engine to exceed 100mph), 'Flying Scotsman' (the world's most famous steamlocomotive), 'Mallard' (world speed record holder for a steam locomotive) and 'Evening Star' (the last ever steam engine built for British Railways). The History of British Steam Railways also takes you to see all the very best railway galas and anniversary festivals of yesteryear, with dozens of rare steam locos on display. Packed with lineside views, authentic steam sounds, footplate action and rare archive material, The History of British Steam Railways also has fascinating reports on goods trains, narrow-gauge lines, mail trains and the role of steam railways during World War II. |
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Hoover Replacement Belt for Guardsman Vacuum Cleaners, 2/PK. Pack of 2 $10.29 Manufacturer: Hoover. Pack of 2. Replacement belt for Guardsman™ Vacuum Cleaners. OEM/Compatible: N/A; Compliance, Standards: N/A; Pre-Consumer Recycled Content Percent: 0 %; Post-Consumer Recycled Content Percent: 0 %. Customers also search for: Belt; Be |
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St-X100N - Smartek St-X100N Steam Iron $120.89 say Goodbye to Ironing And Step Into The World of Steaming. Dry Cleaners Have Been Utilizing The Amazing Benefits of Steaming For Years And The Steam Station Allows You to Access The Same Professional Results. The Steam Station Presses Dry Steam Into The Fabric of Your Clothing, Softening The Fibers, And Smoothing Out Wrinkles in a Fraction of The Time. [STX100N] UPC: 892013000692 UNSPC: 52141603 10.75 LB |
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Applica ICR505 Steam Iron $27.99 1 Year Limited 3.60 lb Auto Clean system Translucent water tank Comfort Grip handle Cord-reel button Compact storage Slip-Resistant Heel Fabric-select dial Smooth out wrinkles quickly and easily with this versatile iron. The unit features a nonstick soleplate for effortless gliding, plus a pointed tip that works well for getting into pleats, between buttons, and along seams. Rotate the dial to adjust the heat from low for nylon, silk, and polyester to high for cotton, wool, and linen. The unit's Smart Steam technology automatically generates the right amount of steam for the fabric type selected, plus its thumb-activated push buttons allow for manually activating the spray-mist and steam-surge functions. Use the iron on a flat surface for traditional ironing or hold it upright for vertically steaming out wrinkles from curtains or hanging garments. For added convenience, the unit comes with an anti-drip system to prevent water spots (even at low temperatures) and an Auto Clean system for keeping the steam vents free from buildup. Anti-drip Applica Applica Consumer Products, Inc Auto Shut-off Blue First Impressions ICR505 Steam Iron ICR505 Steam Iron Vertical Steam Yes www.applicainc.com |
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Kalorik 22-inch Steam Press $210.99 Replace your handheld iron and ironing board with the digital fabric steam pressReduce your ironing time up to 50 percent with this two-in-one applianceLaundry appliance provides the easiest way to remove fabric wrinklesAppliance features a pressing plate for that professionally creased look without a trip to the dry cleaners and without using harsh chemicalsDigital fabric steam press quickly removes wrinkles without damaging fabricsMolded heating element creates even temperature distribution for more effective and efficient pressingNonstick cover pressing surface is 10 times larger than conventional irons so your ironing goes fasterPrecision digital panel allows you to control multiple dry and steam settings, and material and temperature adjustmentsSteam burst function for exceptionally stubborn wrinklesStainless steel with white finish construction means the Kalorik steam press will remain rust-free and will outlast most of the fabrics you pressPressing plate locking knob allows you to lock the top to the bottom for portability and ease of storageAuto shut-off feature keeps children and animals safe from harm |
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Engine Cleaners $24.99 Engine Cleaners - Photographic Print |
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Church Cleaners $24.99 Church Cleaners - Photographic Print |
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Tunnel Cleaners $24.99 Tunnel Cleaners - Photographic Print |
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Lner Cleaners $24.99 Lner Cleaners - Photographic Print |
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Statue Cleaners $24.99 Statue Cleaners - Photographic Print |