A steam cleaner is a versatile tool that can clean and sanitize a wide variety of items. It can be used on hard surfaces such as bathroom floors and countertops. Upholstered furniture, mattresses, and even clothes in your closet can also be cleaned with a steam cleaner. Steam cleaners use hot water and high pressure to lift dirt, kill bacteria and allergens, remove odors, and sanitize surfaces.
Steam cleaners are available at various price points and in different styles, including heavy-duty upright steam cleaners and smaller hand-held versions. They typically come with several interchangeable attachments to clean different materials and surfaces effectively.
Clothes: Use a handheld steam cleaner to remove wrinkles without an iron. It smooths out the fabric.
Mattresses: Regular vacuuming of mattresses is important. Steam cleaning them every couple of months is an excellent way for a deep clean. The steam vapor kills dust mites, allergens, and bacteria, releases grease and other stains, and removes dust and dirt buildup. Bedding: Refresh large bedding components like comforters every season by steam cleaning them. Toys: Stuffed toys can get very dirty. A steam cleaner provides an effective way to clean and sanitize toys, making them safe for kids to play with. Ceiling fans: A lot of dirt collects on ceiling fans. They often become sticky and covered with dust. Use a steam cleaner to carefully clean the gunk and improve air quality in your home. Appliances: Use a steam cleaner to sanitize kitchen appliances. Unplug them and give a deep clean with the steamer. It will also remove lingering odors from microwave, stove, or oven. Warning: Before using a steam cleaner on clothing, rug, or fabric upholstery, check the care tag or manufacturer’s instructions. Some delicate fabrics, vintage, and antique pieces may be damaged by the high heat and pressure of a steam cleaner. What Items Should You Avoid Using a Steam Cleaner? Delicate Fabrics: Avoid using a steam cleaner on silk and velvet. The high heat can cause shrinkage and damage. Antique Rugs: Antique rugs should not be cleaned with a steam cleaner as they are too delicate due to age and materials. Suede and Leather: Do not use a steam cleaner on suede and leather items as it can cause water stains and damage. Hardwood Floors: Avoid using a steam cleaner on hardwood floors and other porous coverings like laminate, vinyl, brick, and marble as moisture can seep in and cause warping. How to Use a Steam Cleaner: Prepare the space or item. For example, remove objects and sweep/vacuum the floor if cleaning the bathroom. Remove pillows and blankets if cleaning an upholstered sofa. Get the steam cleaner ready. Fill the water container and choose the appropriate attachment. Test the steam cleaner on a hidden spot to ensure safety and no damage. Clean one section at a time, working slowly and steadily.Maintaining a clean home is crucial, and using a steam cleaner is an effective way to achieve this. Keep a clean microfiber towel on hand to wipe off excess moisture and dirt as you go along. Depending on what you are cleaning and the type of steam cleaner you have, you may choose to add a step and disinfect the surface using the sanitizing setting on the cleaning tool.
Allow the space to air dry. Whether it’s flooring or a large piece of furniture, ensure it fully air dries before use. Speed up the process by opening windows or bringing in a fan to help circulate air. Properly store the steam cleaner once done. Turn the steamer off, let it cool down, empty, and rinse out the water container, and remove any dirt that has collected. Only put it away to store once it has cooled down and has been properly emptied. Maintain the steam cleaner after every use. Empty the water container, rinse it out, clean the attachment, and wipe down the steam cleaner from the outside. This ensures there are no blockages and that all dirt has been removed to allow the steam cleaner to function as intended. Be cautious when using a steam cleaner. The high heat can easily cause burns. Always point the attachment away from yourself and never place your hands in close proximity to the attachment as steam is being released. Follow the manufacturer’s directions for use and storage. Every steam cleaner model and brand is slightly different, so for best results, adhere to the manufacturer’s guidance. Use distilled water in the steam cleaner to avoid mineral buildup. There is no need to add any cleaning products to the water unless directed by the manufacturer of the model. Treat stains first if you are cleaning a heavily stained area, then use the steam cleaner. Similarly, sweep, vacuum, or wipe down surfaces before steam cleaning to remove solid dirt first. FAQ: What solution can you put in your steam cleaner? Use distilled water in your steam cleaner. There is no need to add anything else unless directed by the manufacturer of the model. Can you only put water in your steam cleaner? For best results, use distilled water in your steam cleaner, as this avoids mineral buildup and prevents blockages.