What Is Steam Cleaning and Is It Effective?

Steam cleaning is more than its name implies. It is a powerful sanitizing and cleansing process for deep cleaning a broad range of surfaces. Here, we cut through the grime to answer these questions: what is steam cleaning, what are its benefits, and how does it compare to other cleaning methods?

What Is Steam Cleaning?

There are typically two ways to steam clean: using just water or with a mix of water and a cleaning agent. The latter option helps remove foul odors, stubborn dirt, and embedded stains. Steam cleaning machines typically come in four types—mop, handheld, canister, or a combination—and are commonly used for cleaning carpet, sealed floors, upholstered furniture, and filthy grout.

It's important to note that steam cleaners aren't suitable for all surfaces. Over time, their heat can damage wood and linoleum flooring, not to mention delicate upholstery fabrics such as silk, leather, suede, and velvet.

Furthermore, many consumer devices, like traditional steam mops, don't reach high enough temperatures for actual disinfection or effective odor removal. This underscores the limitations of consumer-grade equipment compared to professional steam cleaning.

How Does Steam Cleaning Work?

Steam cleaning machines heat distilled water—which will not clog the machine with mineral deposits over time—to generate steam. The steam is then pressurized and released through a nozzle, mop, or brush attachment, allowing for easy application to various surfaces.

The steam breaks down dirt and grime by loosening their bonds with the surface, allowing you to wipe it away. Machines reaching 300°F temperatures also sanitize by killing most bacteria, viruses, and dust mites. 

Carpet and upholstery cleaning machines use suction to remove dirt and moisture into a collection tank while steaming. When it’s time to empty the tank, many homeowners find it satisfying to see all the dirt that’s been removed.

What Are the Benefits of Steam Cleaning?

Pure steam cleaners offer a chemical-free alternative for killing bacteria. They’re eco-friendly and safer for homes with children, pets, or adults sensitive to chemicals found in traditional cleaning agents. 

Additionally, professional steam cleaning machines that generate higher temperatures effectively eliminate allergens, mold, and dust mites, improving indoor air quality—ideal for those with allergies or respiratory issues. 

What Are the Disadvantages of Steam Cleaning?

One key drawback of pure steam cleaning is that it is not always a substitute for traditional cleaning agents. 

Steam can sanitize and lift grime, but on particularly stubborn stains or heavily soiled surfaces, steaming works best as a follow-up after using the appropriate surface cleaner with a cleaning tool, like a brush. For hard surfaces, like tile or stone, a combination of sudsy scrubbing and pure steam cleaning ensures a more thorough clean. Also, cleaning with a degreaser removes heavy grease or oil more effectively. 

Another con is the limitations of using steamers on porous surfaces. Consumer machines don’t always have the powerful suction to remove excessive moisture while steaming, leading to damage or mold growth. As handy as steam cleaners are, you can’t use them on all materials.  

What’s more, professional-grade steam cleaners are often needed to achieve the high temperatures necessary for proper disinfection. When in doubt, working with a local house cleaning service is always best to protect your investment in your home and furnishings.

What You Should Never Steam Clean

Avoid steam cleaning anything sensitive to heat or moisture. The list includes unsealed hardwood floors, vinyl flooring, porous materials like marble or limestone, and delicate fabrics. 

It's also not recommended for painted areas, electronics, or anything with an adhesive attachment because the steam will weaken the bond. It's a good rule of thumb to check manufacturer guidelines before steam cleaning any surface.