Back in the late 1800s, Bissell came out with a child's version of an early vacuum cleaner as a way to encourage brand loyalty. Now it has launched the Barbie Real Vacuum, a bright pink, daisy-dotted rechargeable number geared to the dolly crowd.

Basically a revamped GoVac carpet sweeper with a rather grown-up price -- about $40 -- it's sold in the vacuum aisle, not the toy department. It is available at selected Linens 'n Things and Kmart stores and online through Amazon.com and Sears.com.

Don't bother looking for a Ken model; Bissell has no plans to make a boy-friendly version.