Hoky Carpet Sweeper by Oreck
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 09.19.05
Carpet Sweepers are a great non-electric way to clean carpets quickly. So a recent review of a Hoky Sweeper on Cool Tools, caught our eye:
You've probably seen Hoky Sweepers used in restaurants and hotels. They just plain work. No electric, no plugs, no noise & lightweight. So convenient to grab for a few second cleanup. Just push and they clean, even small crumbs.
Hoky Sweepers have "rotorblades" replacing the traditional bristle brush, the are said to last 8 times longer and self-clean. These sweeprs have horsehair corner brushes and large soft rubber wheels. They are priced around $43. Available from DynaDirect. Story via: Goto Reviews
The device was invented by Melville Bissell, and before the Hoky name came about, it was just called a Bissell. It was the first sweeper (besides the broom). I have a Bissell which is maybe 20 years old, and was recently able to buy a replacement brush. Being able to repair an inexpensive product is such a rarety these days.
There's an interesting story behind the invention, and the company itself, which created the sweeper industry. http://www.bissell.com/main2.asp?Page_id=88
I personally like the Victorian ad, with "CYCO" Bearings in big letters...
I have a Hokey that was my Grandmother's. Still works well after countless years and uses. Best of all, it doesn't scare the cats!