Greetings, readers, and welcome to an exploration of the transformative world of steam cleaners! In an era where cleaning has evolved beyond traditional methods, steam cleaners have emerged as a game-changer, promising not only impeccable cleanliness but also environmental friendliness and efficiency.
In this article, we embark on a journey to uncover the wonders of steam cleaning. Whether you’re a seasoned cleaning aficionado or just someone curious about the benefits of this innovative technology, you’re in for an enlightening experience.
Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of steam cleaners, discussing their various types, how they work their magic, and the myriad surfaces they can transform. We’ll also explore the environmental advantages, cost-effectiveness, and practical tips to make the most of your steam cleaning adventures.
So, let’s dive right in and discover how steam cleaners are redefining the way we clean and sanitize our homes and beyond!
Steam cleaners have become essential tools in households due to their versatility in deep-cleaning a wide range of surfaces, including furniture upholstery and various types of flooring. Rather than depending on chemical cleaning solutions, these appliances harness the power of steam for effective cleaning and disinfection.
According to Will Cotter, COO of HappyCleans, “The high-temperature steam generated by these devices is highly effective in eliminating germs, bacteria, and allergens, all without the need for harsh chemicals. Steam cleaners are equally adept at tackling stubborn stains, grime, and grease, making them invaluable for cleaning kitchens, bathrooms, and even outdoor areas.”
- Best Overall Steam Cleaner: Ewbank Steam Dynamo Steam Cleaner
- Most Versatile Steam Cleaner: Black+Decker 7-In-1 Steam-Mop
- Best Steam Cleaner For Hard Floors: Steamfast Deluxe Canister Steam Cleaner
- Best Steam Cleaner For Upholstery: Pure Enrichment Rolling Steam Cleaner
- Best Steam Cleaner For Carpet: Bissell Revolution Hydrosteam Carpet Cleaner
- Best Lightweight Steam Cleaner: Karcher Sc3 Easyfix Steam Cleaner
- Best Handheld Steam Cleaner: Bissell Steamshot Hard Surface Steam Cleaner
- Best Steam Cleaner For Cars: Wagner On-Demand Steamer
- Best Steam Mop: Pursteam 10-In-1 Steam Mop
- Best Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner: Daimer Steamer Kleenjet Pro Plus 200s
Ewbank Steam Dynamo Steam Cleaner
During our testing, the Ewbank Steam Dynamo left a remarkable impression with its efficiency. This versatile steam cleaner demonstrated its prowess by effortlessly removing dried soy sauce from tile and grout in a single pass.
Despite boasting the largest tank capacity among our selections, it remained surprisingly lightweight and easy to maneuver, even when navigating tight spaces. Furthermore, its operation maintained a relatively quiet profile.
What sets this device apart is its exceptional speed in dissolving stains, clocking in as the fastest among all the models we assessed, taking only 30 seconds to fully tackle the task. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, it can operate for a generous 45 minutes on a single tank fill.
However, it’s worth noting that the canister may require up to 12 minutes to build up pressure, with the orange light indicator signaling the readiness for use.
The Ewbank steam cleaner comes equipped with a range of attachments neatly stored in the front compartment. These attachments include an extension wand, a floor brush/mop, a window and tile cleaner, a toweling cloth, an angled steam nozzle, and nylon brushes.
What’s more, it’s versatile enough to tackle carpet and upholstery cleaning, though the manufacturer recommends conducting a small area test before proceeding.
What truly stands out about this effective steam cleaner is its ability to seamlessly transition between various cleaning tasks simply by swapping out attachments. Coupled with its extended runtime, this device proves ideal for comprehensive home cleaning.
The only minor drawback is that its cord is the shortest among our selections, which may require occasional repositioning to reach the nearest power outlet.
Black+Decker 7-In-1 Steam-Mop
If you’re seeking the user-friendly design of a steam mop combined with the adaptability of a canister-style model, the multipurpose steam cleaner by Black+Decker proves to be an excellent choice. In our tests, this steam mop effortlessly eliminated stains from tiles, providing effective cleaning without excessive effort.
Moreover, we were impressed by its lightweight and maneuverable design, ensuring effortless transport throughout your entire home.
This cleaning device boasts an adjustable steam output dial, allowing you to customize the steam level to your preferences. It offers continuous steam flow, eliminating the need to continuously press a trigger while cleaning. What’s more, the noise produced by this device is barely noticeable.
The “7-in-1” featured in the steam cleaner’s name refers to the wide array of attachments it includes, enhancing its versatility across a range of surfaces. The swivel mop head attachment excels at cleaning sealed floors, while the handheld steam glove offers precise control for tasks like cleaning sealed countertops, stainless steel appliances, and bathroom surfaces.
Additionally, the Black+Decker steam mop comes with a metal grate attachment for tackling grills and oven racks, a garment steamer for refreshing clothes and curtains, and an adjustable steam nozzle for reaching tricky areas.
It’s important to note that this steam cleaner isn’t designed for carpet use and performed modestly when attempting stain removal on upholstery with the glove attachment. Nevertheless, given its ability to replace various cleaning tools and supplies, it remains a highly versatile option suitable for a wide range of surfaces within your home.
Steamfast Deluxe Canister Steam Cleaner
Compared to the other steam cleaners we put to the test, the Steamfast Deluxe stands out with its generously sized mop head and an impressive runtime of 90 minutes, making it ideal for efficiently cleaning extensive floor spaces.
It excels at tackling a range of hard surfaces, including hard floors, shower doors, and grill grates, although it’s not intended for use on upholstery or carpets. During our testing, this steam cleaner exhibited rapid heating capabilities, but it did require a few passes to effectively remove a soy sauce stain.
This suggests that its strength lies in routine maintenance rather than deep cleaning or detailed tasks, making it well-suited for simple floor upkeep.
However, it’s worth noting that the Steamfast Deluxe may not be the most portable option, potentially posing challenges for homes with stairs or individuals with limited hand strength.
Nevertheless, its impressive set of 18 attachments and accessories, which include a mop head, squeegee, jet nozzle, scraper, and detail brush, equips it for versatile cleaning across a wide array of surfaces.
To sum it up, the Steamfast Deluxe steam cleaner shines in situations where a considerable surface area needs quick and efficient cleaning, making it a valuable asset for both households and businesses.
Pure Enrichment Rolling Steam Cleaner
Finding steam cleaners that are safe for upholstery can be a challenge, but the Pure Enrichment rolling steam cleaner stood out in our testing. While it may not be as effective at stain removal as some of our top choices, it’s gentle enough for use on upholstery and shines when it comes to sanitizing and eliminating odors from curtains, drapes, carpets, and more.
One of the standout features of this steam cleaner is its built-in wheels, which make it incredibly easy to maneuver. It heats up in approximately 8 minutes and boasts a 50-ounce reservoir, offering 45 minutes of uninterrupted cleaning time.
Its user-friendly design allows you to switch between continuous steam for a steady flow or hold the steam button for as much steam as you need.
With a generous 16-foot power cord, you can cover a substantial area without the hassle of constantly unplugging.
What sets this steam cleaner apart is its impressive array of 17 attachments. These include a 3-foot extension wand for floor-to-ceiling cleaning, a squeegee for glass surfaces, a triangle brush for tackling corners, a mop head for hard floors, and a jet nozzle for upholstery.
These versatile attachments not only make it upholstery-safe but also suitable for comprehensive home cleaning. While it may come at a slightly higher price point than our overall favorite (another upholstery-safe canister steam cleaner), its extended cord length makes it an excellent choice for reaching those challenging, out-of-the-way messes.
Bissell Revolution Hydrosteam Carpet Cleaner
Steam cleaners and carpet cleaners serve different purposes. While steam cleaners use pressurized steam to clean surfaces, carpet cleaners rely on cleaning solutions, scrub brushes, and suction to tackle carpet dirt. However, Bissell offers a unique solution with a two-in-one appliance that combines the power of both methods.
It starts by pre-treating carpets with steam before proceeding to clean them, offering a versatile cleaning experience.
Weighing in at 32.1 pounds, this appliance is bulkier compared to most steam cleaners and carpet cleaners. Nevertheless, its maneuverability is akin to a vacuum cleaner, thanks to its handle, transport wheels, and a generous 25-foot power cord. Its user-friendly interface offers three modes: steam cleaning, carpet cleaning, and a convenient two-in-one mode.
In addition to these features, the cleaner includes an 8-foot hose to reach hidden messes, a pet hair tool, and a stain-removing tool for upholstery, all without the use of steam.
However, it’s worth noting that unlike some other options, this cleaner is not suitable for cleaning hard surfaces like flooring, glass, or tiles. To use it as a carpet cleaner, you’ll need to fill it with a cleaning solution. It does come with a heftier price tag, costing four times more than our top overall pick.
Nonetheless, it stands out as the only steam cleaner on the market that also functions as a carpet cleaner, making it a unique and valuable choice for those with versatile cleaning needs.
Karcher Sc3 Easyfix Steam Cleaner
The Karcher canister steam cleaner, despite its lightweight design at just 9 pounds, boasts an impressive 39-ounce tank and a continuous steam output that can handle substantial messes.
Our testing revealed its remarkable steam production and effectiveness in removing stains from various surfaces, especially when paired with the included microfiber cloth (which can be conveniently machine-washed for easy cleanup).
Additionally, its descaling cartridge ensures you can refill the tank with tap water without worrying about mineral buildup over time.
What sets it apart is the steam volume switch with three different settings: maximum steam, reduced steam, and a no steam/child lock position. We were impressed by how quickly this lightweight steam cleaner heated up, allowing for almost instant use after powering it on.
Plus, it operated with minimal noise during our tests. However, it’s worth noting that this steam cleaner had a minor issue with leakage during testing. It’s important to highlight that this unit is not intended for spot-treating stains on carpets or rugs, though it can effectively sanitize and refresh them (a separate carpet glider attachment is available for this purpose).
The steam cleaner comes equipped with a floor head for mopping hard floors and a handheld nozzle for steaming a wide range of surfaces, from bathroom fixtures to appliances. Additional attachments include a detail nozzle, a round brush, two extension wands, and microfiber towel covers for both nozzle types.
Overall, despite its compact size, we believe this steam cleaner is a valuable investment that delivers substantial steam power and is easy to store.
Bissell Steamshot Hard Surface Steam Cleaner
Both Will Cotter from HappyCleans and Matthew Baratta from Daimer Industries endorse the handheld steam cleaner by Bissell. This compact steam cleaner, weighing under 4 pounds, is perfect for addressing stains and reaching tricky spots.
While it may not be suitable for large floor cleaning tasks, it excels at cleaning appliances, sinks, tile grout, and more. A handy tip from Baratta: its size and portability make it an excellent choice for car cleaning.
The steam cleaner’s water reservoir holds a modest 6.6 ounces, significantly less than our preferred models, yet it remains a powerful performer, delivering up to 1,000 watts of steam power. Its press-down trigger allows precise control over steam release, and with a generous 20-foot power cord, you’ll have the reach you need to tackle hard-to-reach messes.
Equipped with seven attachments, including an angle concentrator for tight spaces, a flat scraper for stubborn residue, and a grout brush for tackling grime, it also includes a jet nozzle and three scrub brushes designed for various cleaning tasks around your home, from the stove to the shower.
This array of attachments makes it an impressively versatile cleaning tool. Its compact, lightweight design and user-friendly operation make it a valuable addition to your household cleaning arsenal.
Wagner On-Demand Steamer
If you’re in the market for a steam cleaner that’s car-friendly, Cotter recommends the Wagner Spraytech model. This handheld steam cleaner offers ease of use and weighs lightly, providing a generous 40 minutes of continuous cleaning time.
Its standout feature, however, is its remarkable versatility: equipped with 18 attachments, it’s safe for a wide range of surfaces and can tackle tasks ranging from upholstery detailing to engine degreasing.
The canister steam cleaner, on the other hand, weighs 13 pounds and holds 40 ounces of water, heating up in a speedy 9 minutes with a full reservoir. While its power cord is relatively short at just 6 feet, its 8-foot steam hose compensates for this limitation, ensuring you have ample reach for your car cleaning needs.
The addition of two extension poles simplifies accessing tight spots and crevices, while various accessories, including a squeegee for windows, small brushes for upholstery, and an angled adapter for the engine bay, streamline deep-cleaning your car.
Beyond cars, this steam cleaner is safe for use on a multitude of other surfaces, including hard floors, tile, grout, appliances, carpet, and upholstery. Its extensive set of attachments also makes it suitable for steaming clothing and wallpaper removal.
However, it’s worth noting that, like many other steam cleaners, it should not be used on car exteriors or leather upholstery. Due to its compact size, you may need to refill it when cleaning larger areas in your home. Nevertheless, given its lightweight design and exceptional versatility, we believe it’s an excellent investment.
Pursteam 10-In-1 Steam Mop
In our comprehensive testing of 27 popular steam mops at our laboratory, the PurSteam steam mop emerged as the clear winner, and it’s also a personal favorite of Cotter. During our rigorous evaluations, this steam mop demonstrated exceptional efficiency and versatility.
It effortlessly tackled every stain we subjected it to, often requiring fewer than 10 passes for complete cleanup. Notably, it excelled in grout cleaning, but what truly impressed us is its ability to handle a wide range of surfaces, including hard flooring, tiles, glass, and even carpet and upholstery.
The user-friendly steam mop boasts a lightweight design, weighing in at 2.2 pounds when empty and slightly over 5 pounds when the reservoir is full. With a 12.8-ounce water tank, it provides a continuous cleaning time of 25 minutes.
Offering three steam modes, this mop allows you to adjust the steam level according to the cleaning task at hand. What sets it apart is its extensive range of attachments, which surpasses most other steam mops we tested.
These include various brushes ideal for grout cleaning, a squeegee for windows, and an angled nozzle for those hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. Furthermore, it even includes a detachable handheld steamer, perfect for tasks like glass and clothing care.
The efficiency of this steam mop is worth noting. It heats up in a mere 17 seconds and cools down in just 90 seconds, ensuring minimal downtime during your cleaning sessions. Its continuous steam output eliminates the need for excessive button manipulation.
Despite its exceptional performance, it’s one of the most budget-friendly steam cleaners on our list, offering outstanding value for its price point.
Daimer Steamer Kleenjet Pro Plus 200s
For those seeking a robust steam cleaner, commercial-grade options are the way to go, provided you pick the right one. Many of these industrial steam cleaners are often bulky, weighty, and come with a hefty price tag, making them impractical for casual home use.
 However, Baratta suggests considering the Daimer option, which stands out as a formidable yet relatively lightweight choice suitable for domestic use.
This steam cleaner boasts an impressive 4-liter (135 ounces) water capacity and can continuously clean for up to 4 hours. It’s capable of generating pressures of up to 75 PSI, surpassing our top pick, which maxes out at 54 PSI.
Moreover, it swiftly heats up to 310 degrees Fahrenheit in just 15 minutes. Despite its robust capabilities, the steam cleaner is easily maneuverable. While its 23-pound weight provides stability, it’s not challenging to lift. Equipped with a 10-foot steam hose, it offers ample reach, and its built-in handle and transport wheels facilitate seamless room-to-room mobility.
Versatility is another strong suit of this steam cleaner, as it’s safe for various surfaces. Daimer recommends its use for deep-cleaning hotel rooms, commercial kitchens, gyms, and more. With 30 accessories included, it proves adaptable for an array of cleaning tasks. However, it’s important to note that these impressive features come at a premium price point.
How to Shop for Steam Cleaners
1. Determine Your Cleaning Needs:
- Identify the surfaces you plan to clean (e.g., floors, carpets, upholstery, windows).
- Consider the size of the areas you’ll be cleaning.
- Determine whether you need a portable handheld model or a larger canister or commercial-grade steam cleaner for heavier tasks.
2. Set Your Budget:
- Determine how much you’re willing to spend on a steam cleaner.
- Keep in mind that while there are budget-friendly options, investing a bit more may get you a more durable and feature-rich model.
3. Research Different Types:
- Understand the various types of steam cleaners available (e.g., handheld, steam mop, canister, commercial).
- Research the pros and cons of each type based on your needs and preferences.
4. Read Reviews:
- Look for customer reviews and expert opinions on different steam cleaner models.
- Pay attention to feedback regarding performance, durability, and ease of use.
5. Check Steam Pressure and Temperature:
- Steam pressure is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch). Higher PSI typically indicates more powerful cleaning.
- Consider the maximum steam temperature, as higher temperatures can be more effective at killing germs and removing stubborn stains.
6. Assess Water Tank Capacity:
- A larger water tank means fewer refills during cleaning sessions.
- Balance tank size with the weight of the unit to ensure it’s manageable for you.
7. Examine Cord Length:
- Ensure the cord length is sufficient to reach your cleaning areas comfortably.
8. Explore Attachments and Accessories:
- Look for models that come with a variety of attachments for different surfaces and tasks.
- Consider whether the steam cleaner includes brushes, nozzles, extension wands, or upholstery tools.
9. Check for Safety Features:
- Confirm if the steam cleaner has safety features like automatic shut-off to prevent overheating and accidents.
10. Consider Ease of Maintenance:
- Check how easy it is to clean and descale the steam cleaner to maintain its performance.
11. Verify Warranty and Customer Support:
- Ensure the product comes with a warranty for peace of mind.
- Research the manufacturer’s customer support and warranty policies.
12. Test or Demo, if Possible:
- If you have the opportunity, try out the steam cleaner in-store or through a demonstration to assess its usability.
13. Compare Prices and Deals:
- Compare prices from different retailers and online marketplaces to find the best deal.
- Keep an eye out for special offers, bundles, or discounts.
14. Read the User Manual:
- Once you’ve purchased a steam cleaner, thoroughly read the user manual to understand its operation, maintenance, and safety guidelines.
15. Purchase from a Reputable Retailer:
- Buy from a trusted retailer or the manufacturer’s official website to ensure product authenticity and reliable customer service.
By following these steps and conducting thorough research, you’ll be well-prepared to select the right steam cleaner that fits your needs and budget while ensuring a cleaner and more sanitized living space.
FAQs
1. What is a steam cleaner?
A steam cleaner is a cleaning appliance that uses high-temperature steam to sanitize and clean various surfaces, such as floors, carpets, upholstery, and more. It eliminates the need for chemical cleaning agents.
2. How does a steam cleaner work?
Steam cleaners heat water to produce steam, which is then directed through a nozzle or attachment. The hot steam loosens dirt and grime, and the pressure helps dislodge and remove stains and debris from surfaces.
3. What types of surfaces can I clean with a steam cleaner?
Steam cleaners are versatile and can be used on a wide range of surfaces, including tile, hardwood, laminate, carpets, glass, mirrors, upholstery, and kitchen appliances. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific recommendations.
4. Are steam cleaners safe for all surfaces?
While steam cleaners are safe for many surfaces, they may not be suitable for extremely delicate materials like unsealed wood or some types of plastics. Always read the user manual and test a small, inconspicuous area before cleaning.
5. Are steam cleaners effective at disinfecting and killing germs?
Yes, steam cleaners are effective at disinfecting and killing a wide range of germs, bacteria, and viruses due to the high-temperature steam they produce. However, the level of disinfection can vary, so check the specifications of your steam cleaner.
6. Do I need to use cleaning agents with a steam cleaner?
In most cases, steam cleaners only require water to effectively clean and sanitize surfaces. However, some models have the option to use a cleaning solution or detergent if desired.
7. How do I maintain a steam cleaner?
Maintenance typically involves regularly emptying and cleaning the water tank, descaling the unit if necessary, and cleaning or replacing attachments and filters as recommended by the manufacturer.
8. Can steam cleaners remove stains from carpets and upholstery?
Steam cleaners can effectively remove many stains from carpets and upholstery. However, the success of stain removal may vary depending on the type of stain and the fabric. It’s best to treat stains promptly for the best results.
9. Are steam cleaners suitable for pet owners?
Yes, steam cleaners can be beneficial for pet owners. They can help remove pet hair, sanitize surfaces, and effectively clean pet-related messes. Look for models with attachments designed for pet hair and odors.
10. Can I use tap water in a steam cleaner?
It’s generally recommended to use distilled or demineralized water in steam cleaners to prevent mineral deposits and scale buildup, which can affect the unit’s performance and lifespan. Check your steam cleaner’s user manual for specific water requirements.
11. Can I use a steam cleaner on mattresses and pillows?
Yes, many steam cleaners come with attachments suitable for cleaning mattresses and pillows. Steam cleaning can help sanitize these items and remove dust mites and allergens.
12. Are there any safety precautions when using a steam cleaner?
Yes, safety precautions include wearing appropriate protective gear (such as gloves and safety goggles), keeping the steam cleaner away from children and pets, and following the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe operation and maintenance.
Always consult the user manual provided by the manufacturer of your specific steam cleaner model for detailed instructions and safety recommendations.
