TidyVap or LadyBug? Is that your question???
Written: Apr 19 '04 (Updated Apr 19 '04)
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Pros: Both Models give excellent cleaning results!
Cons: Compared to the other steam "bug" can seem a bit pricey.
The Bottom Line: For $400 more the LadyBug has a pressure gauge,two more attachments, and a little longer warranty. Go with the TidyVap or skip up to the XL
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| mom4k's Full Review: Vapor Systems S11L Scout Steam Cleaner |
Note: This review compares two models and may be double posted.
Ok, so on your nights of insomnia you have seen the infomercial for that other steam "bug" and became mildly intrigued. I mean it seems like a great idea, but can it really be as cool . . . er, I mean as "hot" as they make it seem?
Well, those infomercial brands probably are not quite as hot (literally) as the products put out by Vapor Technologies. But I have been literally amazed at the performance from the TidyVap and LadyBug models.
So what is the vapor steam cleaning phenomena all about?
Though relatively new here, vapor cleaning has been around in Europe for years. Various stories have its creation linked to cleaning lipstick off of wine glasses with a cappuccino machine. But these machines have evolved into something much more.
Basically, simple tap water is super heated to about 285 degrees to produce a very dry steam. This steam delivered at 50 - 60 psi can do a remarkable job at cleaning, sanitizing and deodorizing just about anything. When used properly it will destroy germs, viruses, molds, and bacteria. The best part, it is all done chemical free! Great for the environment and allergy and asthma sufferers.
Why TidyVap or LadyBug?
Most vapor cleaners, including the ones reviewed here, are manufactured in Italy. Vapor Technologies, the importer of these steamers, seems to be a stable company with a corporate offices in Washington State. They have "authorized dealers" through out the country and most people should be able to find a dealer on the Internet that is at least in their region. It can be a little disconcerting to spend hundreds of dollars on a machine and not be sure that service or replacement parts will be available if needed. Vapor Technologies is one of the big hitters in the United States so this should not be a problem.
These machines are also among the safest and most convenient. They are designed with a continuous fill system. This allows water to be added at anytime (an audible low water signal will tell you when more is needed.) This means no down time. Some other machines require you to wait up to 20 minutes for the machine to cool down before adding water. Then you have to wait for the water to heat up. I would find that tedious and annoying! The double tank splash proof design also makes it impossible to "blow" a cap, and create a hot water geyser.
How do Tidy Vap and LadyBug compare?
The Tidy Vap $799 and the LadyBug $1199 are the two residential models produced by Vapor Technologies. They both have 1350 watts of power and boast stainless steel boilers. In terms of durability stainless steel is really a must when working with steam. Their bodies are made of a very durable ABS type plastic that is thicker than any vacuum I’ve encountered. They both roll on very maneuverable caster type wheel and are rather compact in size for easy storage.
Accessories included with both the Tidy Vap and LadyBug are:
-A flexible hose with fingertip volume control.
-Two extension tubes.
-Small nylon brush.
-Large rectangular floor brush.
-Steam nozzle.
-Scraper.
-Spanner wrench.
-Instructional video.
The LadyBug has additional standard accessories of:
-A triangle brush. (A must have!) and
-A squeegee set.
I also purchased a tuff kit set. All accessories may be purchased separately, so it is possible to purchase the TidyVap and upgrade the accessories.
Beyond the accessories the LadyBug also has a pressure gauge where the TidyVap only is equipped with an indicator light to let you know when the machine is ready to steam. The TidyVap comes with a one year boiler, parts, and labor warranty. The Ladybug's warranty is a 3 year boiler, one year parts and labor.
So the bottom line is for $400 more the LadyBug has a pressure gauge, two more attachments, and a little longer warranty. Is it worth it? If price point is a concern, I would stick with the TidyVap and add on the accessories. If price is not a concern I would skip right over the LadyBug and get the XL.
But enough of that, how do these machines perform?
I could tell absolutely no difference between the two, but here are some of the miracle tests I put them through:
We have a shaded northern exposure porch that is carpeted. The gray carpet had turned a nice shade of green. Using the triangle brush wrapped in a towel I steamed it up. At first I was concerned because a residual of bright green remained in some corners. The next day it was totally gone.
My SIL was coming over to use it to detail her car. She was late, and I was looking at this ten year old grease stain in my garage. I had a “ready-to retire” scrub bud from the optional tuff kit. I slowly and lightly rubbed it across the stain. To my amazement it came up! Later her car, including leather interiors, carpets and all of the nooks and crannies looked professionally detailed.
I have found vapor cleaning to be the absolute best for floors, blinds, fridges, ovens, microwaves, washing walls, rock fireplaces, sanitizing bathrooms, hamster cages, you name it. For more emotional and less technical information see my review on the LadyBug XL model.
Final Note: In hard water areas "demineralized" water is preferred. I use a Britta filter. Steamers can be descaled about quarterly using one cup vinegar to a quart of water, or a small amount of tartaric acid as per the manufacturers directions.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1199.00
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mom4k
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Reviews written: 9
Trusted by: 3 members
About Me:
Mom w/4 Kids. Seeking Minivan Nirvana...
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