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A vacuum for germs?
This article appeared in 
"You're not just picking up dirt, you're picking up mold, germs and bacteria." That's the claim on the Web site of the $220 Germ Guardian 2-in-1 GGU300 bagless vacuum. The company says nanosilver technology in its vac's dirt cup fights bacteria and reduces odors. It touts the upright's ability to convert to a canister.
The Germ Guardian is, indeed, a two-in-one vacuum: Its body detached easily from the power head for cleaning tasks such as stairs and drapes. But this multitasking vac fell down when it came to picking up dirt. The Germ Guardian did fine on bare floors and pet hair, but it was subpar at deep-cleaning carpets even with its main power head. Carpet cleaning is a vacuum's top task and also our toughest test. Tool airflow wasn't much better. Nanosilver particles are a mixed bag. Silver can inhibit bacterial growth, but Consumers Union, the nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports, believes that the Environmental Protection Agency should regulate nanosilver as a pesticide amid concerns about the effects on the environment and human health.
Bottom line
Job One for a vacuum is cleaning, an area where the Germ Guardian fell down. Consider instead the top-rated Hoover WindTunnel U6485-900, $230. If you're concerned about odors, empty your vacuum's bag or bin regularly.
