How to choose a steam cleaner and how to take care of it

How does a steam cleaner work?

A steam cleaner is, in essence, a very simple device. The appliance heats water in its tank and creates steam. The steam is then pushed under pressure through a hose or nozzle onto the surfaces you want to clean. Hot steam helps loosen grease, dried-on dirt and deposits and can often also remove mould or unsightly black spots that appear in bathrooms. Steam can also reach hard-to-access areas – joints, gaps, folds and shower enclosure runners.

How to choose a steam cleaner

Handheld steam cleaner

Handheld models have one major advantage – they are small, lightweight, powerful and easy to operate. They are a great helper for everyday cleaning or dealing with small accidents. What can they be used for?

The main disadvantage is their shorter operating time and the need to refill the water tank more frequently.

Steam cleaner for floors

Universal steam cleaner

A common choice is a universal steam cleaner. It represents a practical compromise between a handheld device and a steam mop. They usually come with various attachments and accessories that help you clean different types of surfaces. Useful accessories may include grout nozzles, brushes, floor attachments or squeegees for glass and mirrors. When choosing, focus more on the accessories than on the appearance of the device itself.

The disadvantage is precisely its “universality”. If you have very large areas to clean or, for example, many stairs, windows or tiled surfaces, the appliance may not be as powerful as you expect.

Comparison of steam cleaner types

Type of steam cleaner	Main advantages	Most suitable use	Disadvantages
Handheld steam cleaner	Lightweight, compact and easy to use in corners and joints	Bathroom, kitchen, taps, tiles, joints, windows and smaller areas	Smaller tank and shorter operating time, not ideal for large floor areas
Steam mop	Easy handling, quick cleaning of large areas and a wide floor head	Mainly floors, tiles and other suitable hard surfaces	Less practical for joints, taps and hard-to-reach areas
Universal steam cleaner	Combines floor cleaning with cleaning of smaller and hard-to-reach areas, wide range of uses	Floors, bathroom, kitchen, windows, joints and other surfaces depending on the attachments	Usually larger dimensions and higher purchase price

Choosing a steam cleaner is also about its parameters

Water tank capacity = how long you can work without refilling. Handheld cleaners usually have a capacity of 0.2 l, while steam mops can work with tanks of around 0.5 l. More powerful devices, such as steam vacuum cleaners, can offer tanks of up to 2 litres.

Heating time = work efficiency. The fastest devices are ready in around 30 seconds, while others may require up to 5 minutes. The faster the heating, the better the appliance is suited for everyday use.

Steam pressure = how powerful the appliance is. The most common values are between 2 and 4 bar. Higher pressure means more effective action on stubborn dirt. However, the steam temperature and the design of the appliance and attachments are also important.

Cable length = how far you can reach. Household models usually offer 4–6 metres of cable (or sometimes temporary battery operation). If you have a larger or more complex room, you will appreciate a longer cable.

Hose length = your range of movement. It determines how far you can reach when obstacles are in the way.

Proper care keeps your steam cleaner working well

When working with water, your number one enemy becomes limescale. Steam cleaners are no exception. How should you take care of a steam cleaner and how do you descale it?

As always, the key topic here is prevention. To effectively fight limescale, you need regular maintenance and thorough care after using the appliance. If you neglect this care, the nozzles may gradually become blocked and the steam flow will not be sufficient, reducing cleaning efficiency.

How to take care of a steam cleaner

• Allow the appliance to cool down after cleaning.
• Do not leave water in the tank for a long time.
• Regularly check nozzles, brushes and attachments and remove dirt from them.
• Wash textile covers regularly.
• Descale individual parts regularly.
• Use filtered or distilled water if the appliance does not already have a built-in filter or limescale protection system.

Quick guide: how to descale a steam cleaner

1. Switch off the appliance, unplug it and allow it to cool completely.
2. Empty the tank and use a suitable descaling agent. Manufacturers often recommend a specific product. Vinegar is not always suitable! It can damage seals.
3. Leave the product to work.
4. Rinse the tank with clean water (repeatedly if necessary).
5. Clean the nozzles and attachments. Avoid sharp objects or aggressive cleaners.

Yes to a steam cleaner

A steam cleaner is a practical household helper. When choosing one, focus on the purpose of use and make sure you have suitable surfaces that can withstand steam cleaning. Do not underestimate the appliance’s power, tank capacity or available accessories. If you want to maintain reliable performance over the long term, take proper care of your steam cleaner and descale it regularly.