My grandma had a carpet sweeper and, when we were staying with her, thre was a big fight after every meal about who would get to use the sweeper to pick up the crumbs. My sister (about four at the time) thought it was some kind of hobby horse and would ride around on it.

I agree, though, for a quick noiseless run-through, carper sweepers are great. I bought one myself :) Also about the hair! It always make up half the debris!