Whether you’re looking for a basic floor cleaner, something to deep-clean the carpets, or an upholstery cleaner to finally knock that seemingly permanent layer of dust off the furniture, there’s a device that’s right for you.
And it may be different, still, for someone who wants to break out the machine once a year for a super-deep spring cleaning.
#STEAM CLEANER FULL#
The best steam cleaner for someone with rooms full of wall-to-wall carpet and upholstery may not be the right option for someone who’s just looking for an extra layer of sanitation on all the hard surfaces of the kitchen and bathroom. Best on a budget: LIGHT ‘N’ EASY Floor Steamers Steam Mopįeatures to consider when shopping for the best steam cleaner.Best multipurpose steam cleaner: Bissell Steam Shot Deluxe Hard-Surface Cleaner.Best upholstery cleaner: Hoover ONEPWR Spotless GO Cordless Carpet and Upholstery Spot Cleaner.Best handheld steam cleaner: Handheld Pressurized Steam Cleaner.Best floor cleaner: Bissell PowerFresh Slim Hard Wood Floor Steam Cleaner System.Best for carpet: McCulloch MC1275 Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner.Use our guide to find the best steam cleaner for your particular needs, even if you’re on a tight budget. Will you be using it primarily on hardwood floors? Or is your home carpeted? Do you want something that will pull triple-duty as a floor-cleaning tool, handheld contraption for hard-to-reach places, and upholstery steamer? Then you need something multipurpose. If you’re ready to invest in the best house cleaning tools, figure out what you need from the device before you buy.
Some studies have even shown steam cleaning to effectively fight mold, bacteria, viruses-even bed bugs (eek). Because it’s a green way to clean, it’s a great option for anyone eco-conscious or with allergies. In fact, steam is the CDC’s recommended method for sanitizing your home.Ī steam cleaner does what it sounds like: heats up water until it vaporizes, then uses that water to disinfect and sanitize. The best steam cleaner could be all you need to safely and effectively sanitize your home-sans harsh bleaching agents-including all the various surfaces, fabrics, and materials that entails.
You should also spot test a small hidden area first.If the area under your sink is a hodgepodge of spray bottles and solvents meant to clean your hardwood floors, carpets, appliances, and upholstery, it may be time to downsize by upgrading. For example, certain laminate types may be damaged by the high heat. Always check with your flooring manufacturer to find out if steam is safe. There are also steam mops designed specifically for floors. "If you have hardwood floors or tile, you can easily mop the floors, depending on your attachments," said Hansen.
#STEAM CLEANER HOW TO#
How to steam clean floorsĪs with textiles, vacuuming (or at least thoroughly sweeping) will get you the best results. "When you use soap, it releases the soil, because the surfactant allows the water to carry the dirt away and not redeposit on what you are washing." So while steam cleaning can keep your textiles looking fresh in between washings, you still want to machine wash, hand wash or professionally clean your items, depending on their care instructions. Most steam cleaners aren't compatible with cleaning solutions, and Edelman said that water alone isn't usually enough for textiles. Know that soap will be needed - eventually. If you're cleaning furniture, make sure to let the cushions dry fully (a day is ideal) before replacing them so you don't get into, as Edelman referred to it, "a mildew situation." “The steam blows the dirt and debris onto the rag.” Note that with some steam cleaners, the dirty water is redirected into the unit. "I aim the steam cleaner at a 45-degree angle while having a microfiber cloth on the other side of the stain," said Hansen. Follow your specific steam cleaner's instructions most have attachments specifically for upholstery.