Steam Cleaners Buying Guide

Steam cleaners are becoming incredibly popular due to its eco-friendliness and effectiveness. Steam cleaning is capable of removing dirt and grime from surfaces, without the need of chemical-laden cleaning agents. There are various types of steam cleaners available in the market, and finding the right one can be overwhelming for consumers. In this steam cleaners buying guide, we will help you make an informed decision by discussing some essential factors to consider.

Type of Steam Cleaners

There are three primary types of steam cleaners:

Handheld

Handheld steam cleaners are portable and can easily clean hard-to-reach areas like corners, grout lines, and tight spaces. They are ideal for cleaning small areas like car interiors, kitchens, and bathrooms. Handheld steam cleaners can also clean upholstery, curtains, and carpets. They are smaller in size and come with smaller water tanks. As compared to other steam cleaners, handheld steam cleaners are less powerful and have shorter steam time.

Canister

Canister steam cleaners consist of a separate water tank and a steam generator unit. They have longer steam time as compared to handheld cleaners and are more powerful. Canister steam cleaners can effectively clean floors, walls, and other large surfaces. They also come with specialized attachments for cleaning different surfaces like curtains, carpets, and upholstery. Canister steam cleaners also have a longer power cord which makes it easier to clean larger areas.

Upright

Upright steam cleaners are similar to canister steam cleaners but come in a form factor of a vacuum cleaner. They are efficient in cleaning large surfaces and can manage multiple cleaning tasks with ease. Upright steam cleaners come with a long power cord and can clean a large area without having to move the cleaner around. As compared to handheld and canister steam cleaners, they are the most expensive but can save time and effort, especially for those who need to clean large areas frequently.

Size and Capacity

The size of the steam cleaner is another important factor to consider. Handheld steam cleaners are the smallest, followed by canister steam cleaners and upright steam cleaners.

The size of the water tank also matters as it determines the amount of steam time the cleaner will provide. The larger the water tank, the longer the steam time will be. If you intend to clean large areas or multiple rooms at a time, a larger water tank is recommended. However, larger tanks also mean a heavier unit, so make sure that the size and weight are convenient to move around.

Steam Pressure and Temperature

The steam pressure and temperature are crucial factors that determine the effectiveness of the steam cleaner. The higher the pressure and temperature, the more effective the cleaner will be in removing dirt, stains, and grime. Cleaning tasks like tile grout and grease will require a high-pressure steam cleaner to be more effective. The steam temperature also determines that types of surfaces that can be cleaned. For example, surfaces like marble are sensitive to heat and require a low-temperature steam cleaner.

Attachments and Accessories

Steam cleaners come with a variety of attachments and accessories that make cleaning different surfaces easier. Some of the most common attachments include:

• Large scrub brushes: Ideal for cleaning hard surfaces like floors and walls.
• Small scrub brushes: Useful for cleaning tight spaces, corners, and crevices.
• Fabric tool: Best for cleaning upholstery, curtains, and soft surfaces like carpets.
• Squeegee: Used for cleaning windows and other glass surfaces.
• Extension wand: Used for cleaning high or unreachable areas.

When purchasing a steam cleaner, make sure that it has the necessary attachments required for your cleaning needs. Some steam cleaners also come with steam control options that allow you to adjust the steam output for different cleaning tasks.

Price and Warranty

Price is always a significant factor when purchasing any home appliances. Steam cleaners come in various price ranges, and the cost usually depends on the type of steam cleaner, its features, and its brand. Handheld steam cleaners are the most affordable, followed by canister steam cleaners and upright steam cleaners. It's essential to understand that the more features and attachments a steam cleaner has, the more expensive it will be.

Along with the price, the warranty of the steam cleaner is also a crucial factor to consider. Look for steam cleaners that have a warranty of at least one year, allowing ample time to test the machine's performance and reliability.

Safety Issues

Although steam cleaners are eco-friendly and safe to use, they can also be hazardous if misused. Some essential safety precautions to keep in mind when using a steam cleaner include:

• Always read the manufacturer's manual and follow the instructions for use and maintenance.
• Never touch the hot surfaces of the steam cleaner during or after cleaning. Wait for the unit to cool down before handling or storing.
• Never point the steam cleaner's nozzle towards people, pets, or plants. The steam can cause severe burns and damages.
• Always keep the steam cleaner out of reach of children and pets.

Conclusion

A steam cleaner can be an excellent cleaning solution for those looking for an eco-friendly and chemical-free method to clean their homes. Before purchasing a steam cleaner, consider factors like its type, size and capacity, steam pressure and temperature, attachments and accessories, price and warranty, and safety precautions. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a steam cleaner that matches your cleaning needs and budget.