They're messy, but then they're soap bubbles so you can't expect anything less.  They definitely seem to work better than the last brand we got, which popped almost instantly and it was almost impossible to start them from the stick.  Your mileage will vary depending on your household companions, though.  The older cat seems enamored of these, and will chatter at them as they float. The younger cat is scared of his own shadow and these don't help.  He'll watch them only from a distance and is content to get no closer.