How to Clean With a Steamer

Steam cleaning

As "green" living has become popular and a priority in many homes, the use of steam appliances for cleaning is at the top of the list. Whether hand-held or floor model, these mighty cleaners are compact, use only tap water and spare our bodies from harmful chemicals. Steam is very hot (250-280 degrees F.) enough to sanitize and disinfect the surfaces you want to clean. Also, if allergies plague your family, steam vapor helps to rid your home of dust mites, molds, fungi and bacteria.

Things You'll Need

• Cloths or rags
• Microfiber pads

Instructions

1. 

   Read the instructions that come with your steamer for basic start-up instructions and to get acquainted with the tools that come with your appliance.

2. 

   Fill the reservoir with ordinary tap water and seal the top. Plug the unit in to an electrical source and wait for steam to appear. Some units heat quickly, in less than a minute. The steam inside the unit will then eject at high pressure. Aim at the surface you want to clean and press the trigger; continuing until the dirt or grime is dislodged. Whether you are using a portable steamer or floor model, move the steamer around in a motion that best suits the type of cleaning you are doing (either up and down or back and forth). Use broad strokes for normal cleaning and disinfecting. For a stubborn stain, work in a small area moving outward until the surface is free of dirt. Steam cleaners require less scrubbing and are easier for people with arthritis.

3. 

   Wipe up the loosened dirt and any excess moisture with a cloth. For floor cleaners, place a microfiber pad on the head of the unit. Proceed as if you were using a vacuum on the floor. Cloths and microfiber pads can be tossed into the washing machine after each use.

4. 

   Use the steam cleaner for cleaning throughout your home. In the kitchen, the steamer will clean all counters, appliances and tile floors. Steam is a great degreaser, so it is a wonderful cleaning tool for grimy ranges and exhaust hoods. Steam removes the soap buildup on bathroom fixtures and shower doors. Cleaning floors with steam makes it easy to remove stains and scuff marks.

5. Unplug the unit from the electrical source when finished. Wait until the unit has cooled and pressure has gone down before opening the reservoir cap.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep face and exposed skin away from the steam as it may cause burns. Keep children and pets away from the steamer. Steam is not recommended for unsealed wood floors.

References

• Steam Shot Users Guide; Bissell; 2008

Resources

• Steam Cleaning Guide