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Fill your steam cleaner with water to the recommended level, and add any cleaning agent that is compatible with your machine, if any. Do not add cleaning agents to a steam cleaner without reading the recommendations in the owner's manual. Some chemicals can damage certain steam cleaners. Screw the cap on tightly and plug the steam cleaner cord into an electrical outlet, to allow it to heat up and build pressure. The steam that is generated by the heat is under extreme pressure, so the lid must be very secure before you plug the cord into the outlet.
Remove any solid waste that is in the container. Use a paint scraper for stubborn stuck on food or grime. Rinse your container using a garden hose or a detachable showerhead, and dump the water out.
Attach a brush attachment to your steam cleaner, and scrub the outside of the container in small, gentle circular strokes, while pressing the steam release trigger. Allow the steam to do most of the work; it isn't necessary to press firmly. Repeat the same process with the inside of the container. Use the small nozzle attachment to blow steam into any cracks or crevices that are too small for the brush attachment. Rinse the can once more with your garden hose or showerhead, and allow it to dry before using. Using the container for disposing of trash while it is wet can cause dirt to quickly build up again.
