Still wondering why your floors feel dirty right after you’ve cleaned them? It might not be the tools, but the habits built up over time that are making your floors dirtier every day.

Professional cleaners say many of us are unintentionally making our floors worse through simple, everyday routines. From skipping entry mats to overusing products, these small missteps can add up to bigger messes.

Luckily, they're easy changes to make. Paired with one of the best vacuums for carpet or best vacuums hardwood floors, breaking these bad habits could mean a cleaner home with half the effort.

1. Wearing outdoor shoes indoors

According to Matthew Baratta, VP at Daimer Industries, one of the dirtiest habits is wearing outdoor shoes inside. ‘They bring in oil, bacteria, and grit that wears down floors fast – especially carpets and hardwood,’ he explains.

Veronica Smith from Dallas Maids notes it’s a cultural habit in many US homes, but that doesn’t make it floor-friendly. 'That does not mean it is optimal for our homes,' she emphasizes.

Skipping entrance mats doesn't help, either, and is one of many common home cleaning mistakes. Without a mat to trap moisture and dirt, you’re spreading debris across the house with every step. Veronica says a good mat at each doorway can trap up to 95% of mess – and even basic versions just need a quick shake or vacuum to stay effective.

If your floors are dirty soon after cleaning, it might be time to reassess your routine. Small mistakes such as not drying shoes or poor mat placement can keep floors looking tired. Hardwood is particularly vulnerable, and common habits that damage wood floors often come down to friction and grime from shoes.

2. Leaving spills to sit

That small splash of juice or water may not seem urgent, but letting spills dry can lead to sticky residues that attract even more dirt. ‘Sticky spots become magnets for dust,’ says Matthew, who recommends tackling them as soon as possible with a microfiber cloth or damp mop.

If you're often not able to mop the floors properly when spills occur, consider a steam mop that can clean your floor in seconds without the fuss of setting up a mop and bucket. The Black+Decker Steam Mop at Amazon is a personal favorite at Homes & Gardens across almost all floor types.

And if you’re dealing with frequent messes in high-traffic areas, consider keeping one of the best vacuum-mop combos handy. They're especially useful for households with kids or pets – the Dreame H14 Pro, a model I've tested myself and still use in my home, can banish stains, solids and liquids in seconds and leave the floors dry a moment later.

3. Letting pets track in dirt

Muddy paw prints can quickly undo your hard work and neglecting housekeeping tips for dog owners such as this will only result in more time spent cleaning in the long run.

‘Pets bring in moisture, dirt, and grit that causes wear – especially on hardwood,’ says Carlos Segundo of Traditional Hardwood Flooring. Wiping their paws before they re-enter the house is one of the easiest ways to reduce the mess.

Carlos suggests keeping a towel or pet-safe wipes by the door, and should be essential cleaning supplies for pet owners. More specifically, Veronica recommends Earth Rated wipes [at Amazon] for quick cleans that are safe on paws and won’t leave residues on floors.

Staying on top of pet hair makes a huge difference too – one of the best vacuums for pet hair will be more effective than a standard model at collecting embedded dander and debris.

4. Overusing cleaning products

More product doesn’t always mean cleaner floors. In fact, it often does the opposite. ‘Too much cleaner leaves behind residue, which traps dust and creates a sticky surface,’ says Veronica. Excessive water can seep into porous flooring such as hardwood, causing long-term damage.

It's not just an excess of water or cleaning solution that can cause problems, but the cleaner itself. We've written detailed guides on how to clean bathroom floors without harsh chemicals and common vinyl floor cleaning mistakes if you're unsure what cleaner is right for your home.

Plus, learn the best way to mop hardwood floors and how to clean tile floors with the right cleaners.

Now that the sun has finally returned, I am noticing all the streaks, smears, and dust marks on the glass around my home. That's why I tried cleaning my windows with a steam cleaner.

Tired of traditional approaches of using squeegees and water, I gave this alternative method a go and was seriously surprised by just how quick, easy, and effective it was.

Here, I share how to clean windows without streaks using a steam cleaner – and reveal the secret to ensuring a sparkling surface that lasts.

How to steam clean windows

Glass is just one of the many things you can clean with a steamer around your home, helping to reduce scrubbing and the use of harsh chemicals.

However, when steam cleaning glass, you need to follow a few key steps to ensure the results come out clearer than you started.

Before you start with this cleaning tip I swear by, you will need:

• A steam cleaner with a squeegee attachment. I use Homes & Garden’s best steam cleaner – the Black & Decker 7-in-1 steam cleaner, available at Amazon.
• A lint-free towel, such as a muslin cloth, from Walmart.
• Distilled water.
• A cloudy, dry day.

1. Wait for a cloudy day

One thing people with clean windows always do is work on a dull but dry day. While we usually wait for bright, warm sunshine for outdoor cleaning tasks, the hot sun can make water dry too quickly, resulting in streaks and watermarks that are nearly impossible to buff away without starting all over again.

A dry, dull, but slightly breezy day offers you the best chance of a transparent finish.

2. Use distilled water

One of the most important cleaning tips when steam cleaning glass is to use distilled water, available in gallon bottles at Target, rather than regular tap water. This is important for several reasons.

Firstly, as Scott Schrader, cleaning expert at CottageCare explains, ‘Using distilled water makes steam-cleaning glass and other surfaces in the home easier compared to tap water. This is because distilled water is purified and free of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium, which can cause limescale buildup and streaks when using tap water.

'As a result, you'll notice a much clearer, streak-free surface since distilled water contains no minerals that could leave residue on the glass.’

Secondly, because of these minerals in tap water, using distilled water can prolong the lifespan of your steam cleaner, reducing the chance of blockages and limescale build-up inside your appliance and making it easier to keep your cleaning supplies clean.

3. Set your steam setting

A big window-cleaning mistake to avoid when steam-cleaning windows is using too high a steam setting on your appliance.

On my steam cleaner, there is an adjustable dial to adjust the degree of steam output. For widows, I set this at its lowest pressure setting to avoid damaging the glass. The steam still comes out at the same temperature, breaking down grime, but the lower pressures reduce significant moisture build-up to make avoiding streaks simpler.

4. Work from top to bottom

One of the smartest cleaning habits to spend less time cleaning that I have learned from professional cleaners is to always work from top to bottom. This applies to everything from dusting to steam cleaning windows.

Starting at the top of my window, I slowly dragged the squeegee attachment down the pane. The key here is ‘slowly’. This allows the low-pressure steam enough time to break down the grime before the silicone ‘blades’ can wipe it away.

Starting at the top means that dirty water and runoff do not roll down onto glass that I have already cleaned, so I do not have to go back over the same areas twice.

5. Buff dry

The final secret to streak-free windows is buffing the pane dry with a lint-free cloth after all the dirt has been removed. I use muslin cloths, available in multi-packs at Target, as they leave no fibers behind and do not risk scratching the glass.

Laura Harness, founder of eco-cleaning brand Seep, also suggests, ‘Wipe away with a lint-free cloth such as bamboo cloths. These are better than microfiber alternatives as they are totally plastic-free and won't leave microplastics on the glass.’

FAQs

Will a steam cleaner crack glass windows?

A steam cleaner will not crack or damage glass windows so long as you work on a day that is warmer than 32 degrees Fahrenheit (zero degrees Celsius), as sudden temperature changes in glass can result in fractures.

Steam-cleaning windows does not end with the glass. For a thorough clean, Laura adds, ‘Open the windows and wipe down the sills for all the debris that has been collected over the winter months.’ It is also possible to clean window tracks with steam by using a steam injector nozzle to blast away dirt and debris while sanitizing – it’s the perfect all-round tool.

So many of us look forward to spring and summer for the longer days and warmer weather, but they also mark the start of peak allergy season.

From dust mites to pollen, every surface is a potential hazard when it comes to allergies. Luckily, a steam cleaner could help tackle them all.

Here, immunologists explain how a steam cleaner could help eliminate allergens from your home without the need for chemicals, with expert cleaning tips for allergy sufferers.

How to use a steam cleaner to improve allergies

Several allergens plague our homes, the most notable being dust, pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. Luckily, when exploring how to combat common allergens, they can all be either removed or killed by cleaning with the best steam cleaners and steam mops, begins Dr. John McKeon, CEO of Allergy Standards Ltd.

He explains, 'Steam cleaning is an effective way to remove common household allergens, such as dust mite allergen and pet dander, due to the high-temperature profile that they can reach. The starting temperature for most steam cleaners is 212°F /100°C, and often reach higher temperatures.

'Live dust mites see reductions from temperatures starting at 131°F/55°C. While allergens and bacteria are more thermostable than live dust mites, denaturing at temperatures starting from 212°F /100°C, this temperature profile is within most steam cleaning device’s range, meaning that steam cleaning is an effective way to combat these irritants.'

It is one of the many reasons why I use the Black & Decker steam cleaner all over my home.

All prices correct at time of publication.

As a couple, my partner and I are particularly prone to allergens such as dust mites. While running the best air purifier certainly helps, and airing out bedding each morning and vacuuming regularly limits dust mites, nothing does as much as steam cleaning regularly.

For example, running the steamer over bedding every few days between washing helps to kill mites and bacteria that cause skin irritation and flare-ups so we sleep better.

What's more, steam cleaning also helps to remove dust properly, acting like a damp duster to collect dust and remove it from surfaces, rather than spread it around.

The efficiency of steam cleaning against allergens is far from anecdotal, either. One study in the Journal of Clinical & Experimental Allergy found that 'steam cleaning has considerable potential as a highly effective and efficient method of killing dust mites and reducing concentrations of Der p 1 [a dust mite-associated allergen] in domestic premises.'

That being said, there are a few caveats to steam cleaning, and some home cleaning mistakes to avoid so you do not make allergies worse.

Dr. Purvi Parikh, an allergist with Allergy & Asthma Network, explains, 'Steam can kill off dust mites and other bacteria and viruses. However, you must make sure that surfaces are properly dried as humid environments can increase the risk of mold or dust mites.

'This is especially true of soft furnishings and when exploring how to clean upholstery, for example. All in all, however, this is a great way to clean things without using harsh chemicals.'

Running the best dehumidifier when steam cleaning large areas can help to maintain a safe indoor humidity to prevent mold and musty smells indoors.

Meet the experts

FAQs

What is the most effective cleaning method for removing allergens?

One of the best cleaning methods for allergens is thorough sanitization, either through heat treatment such as hot laundry cycles and steam cleaning, or products such as soaps or chemical solutions.

Will steam cleaning get rid of pet dander?

Steam-cleaning upholstery can help you remove pet dander from fibers by killing bacteria. Pairing steam cleaning with vacuuming is even more effective, as you draw dander to the surface, and then use suction to remove the remaining traces.

While steam cleaning is one of the best ways to kill allergens without chemicals, there are some things to never steam clean in your home to avoid damaging surfaces.

Cleaning carpets can be time-consuming, especially if you don’t have a dedicated appliance to make the job easier. I was stuck in a cycle of borrowing my mom’s bulky carpet cleaner as I didn't have space to store a bulky single-use tool.

When I discovered you can clean carpets with a steam mop, I knew it was the answer for my tired carpets and invested in a Black + Decker steam mop, available at Amazon. It was absolutely worth the spend.

Now, I breeze through carpet cleaning, and it takes me less than half an hour, plus I use it all over my home to deep clean. Here’s how I steam clean my carpets every spring and why expert cleaners agree this appliance is a brilliant investment.

Cleaning carpets with a steam mop

I use a Black + Decker steam cleaner all over my home and it's by far the most versatile and essential cleaning tool I have ever bought.

My Black + Decker Classic Steam Mop, available at The Home Depot, came with a carpet glide fitting (also available separately at Amazon) which means the microfiber pads skim over carpets with ease. This is a lot easier than steam cleaning carpets with bulky carpet machines which are often incredibly heavy and require a lot of setup, cleaning and maintenance.

To clean carpets with a steam mop, I start by vacuuming, before filling the reservoir with tap water. I then fit a fresh microfiber pad and the carpet glide attachment, and get to work, moving back and forth in slow, even lines to cover the entirety of my rugs or carpet.

Forrest Webber, cleaning expert and owner of Bear Brothers Cleaning explains, 'Steam mops can help kill bacteria, remove odors, and eliminate bacteria, dust mites, and allergens because of its sanitizing method. Because it kills bacteria, the odors caused by bacteria, pet accidents, and spills can be neutralized.'

All prices correct at time of publication.

It is worth mentioning, however, that, unlike dedicated carpet cleaners, steam mops do not suck out dirt from between the fibers.

Forrest continues, 'Because steam mops do not have suction, dirt cannot be extracted properly. It also means that while the heat may loosen dirt, it will not be removed altogether. So you'll want to vacuum afterward.'

Bryan Griffin, cleaning expert and founder of Patriot Maids Cleaning Services assures me that this is nothing to worry about, however, saying, 'Steam loosens up all that deep, stubborn dirt by bringing it up to the surface. Once you go over it with a steam mop, a quick vacuum session picks up everything much more effectively. It’s like prepping the battlefield before going in!'

Having one of the best vacuum cleaners for carpets certainly comes in clutch here. I cannot tell any difference in cleanliness after using a traditional carpet cleaner and my steam mop besides my energy levels. A steam mop is certainly less exhausting to move around, especially on stairs.

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Why I love using a steam cleaner on carpets

Cleaning carpets with a steam mop is by far one of my favorite ways to clean my home without harming the planet, as it only needs plain water. Given that you don't need harsh chemicals to clean well, this is a win in my books.

Traditional carpet cleaning machines might be able to penetrate older dirt and stains more easily with suction, but they often require commercial carpet cleaning solutions that can be full of chemicals that leave your floor coverings sticky if not properly rinsed away. I would rather go over the same spot with my steamer a few times instead, and make the most of this non-toxic home essential.

Not to mention that my steam cleaner has multiple uses. I use a steam cleaner to deep clean my entire kitchen and have even used a steam cleaner to get rid of a flea infestation. It is certainly a cleaning tool to buy well and buy once for continuous pay-off.

Meet the experts

FAQs

Why is my carpet still dirty after steam cleaning?

If your carpet still looks dirty after steam cleaning, it might be that dirt that was embedded in the fibers has now been brought to the top as the fibers dry and moisture evaporates. Steaming again to loosen grime and vacuuming with a beater brush will help to remove lingering residue.

Do carpets need to dry after steam cleaning?

Carpets will need to dry after cleaning with a steam mop, but it generally takes less time than cleaning with a carpet cleaning machine. To dry a carpet thoroughly after steaming, leave it uncovered, and open a nearby window or two to improve ventilation. Alternatively, use one of the best dehumidifiers to remove moisture from the air and reduce the risk of mold.

While I adore my steam cleaner, there are certainly some things you should never steam clean in your home. It is well worth brushing up on the dos and don'ts before you accidentally damage something expensive such as your best memory foam mattress.

I am always trying to find smarter ways to clean my house, preferably without chemicals. That’s why I love my steam cleaner.

From floors to upholstery there is barely anything that it can’t tackle, stripping away grease and killing bacteria without a single cleaning spray or tough chemical.

I love it so much that I now swear by only using my best steam cleaner to deep clean my kitchen; helping me to cut back on scrubbing and save on laundry and time at the end of every week. Here’s how I use it.

My steam cleaner is the only tool I need for sprucing up my kitchen

When I first bought my Black & Decker steamer, it was because I needed a steam cleaner to get rid of a flea infestation. It was a panic buy for sure, but I knew I would have to find other ways to justify the cost once I had it.

That’s when I started testing all sorts of cleaning tips around my house and found that it was the best way to clean my kitchen without any chemicals. As my partner has contamination OCD, this was a massive non-toxic household essential win for both of us.

All prices correct at time of editing.

From cleaning an oven without chemicals to cleaning grout in my kitchen backsplashes, there is hardly anything my steamer can’t clean.

1. The kitchen sink

When cleaning a kitchen sink I used to only use a big drop of dish soap and a Scrub Daddy (from Walmart) or old cloth to buff water marks and stains out of the stainless steel. However, when I read that dish soap does very little to kill germs on my sink, I knew I had to change up my cleaning routine for the better.

So, I started using my steamer instead. I didn't want to scratch the steel, so I used the microfiber glove attachment and slid my hand around the sink and draining board to instantly kill bacteria and melt away grease. Then, I finish up with a clean, dry towel to buff away watermarks.

Don’t get me wrong, I still use a bit of dish soap and a cloth mid-week to remove splashes and keep the sink hygienic between deep cleans, but nothing quite polishes the surface like the end-of-week steaming.

2. The oven

There are several unusual oven-cleaning hacks out there, but I have yet to find one that is as safe and effective as steam cleaning an oven. I used to use harsh chemicals that came with special gloves and were terrible for the environment and my health until I got my steamer, and my eyes were well and truly opened.

The steam cleaner fitted with the brush attachment quickly melted grease (even more efficiently than the strong, expensive commercial stuff), allowing it to collect in a pool of water in the base of my oven. Then I just use some paper towels to soak it all up and toss them in the trash.

The downside to this method is that it takes a little more physical labor than the leave-in cleaning gel and any dripping water can make for hot work if I don't take breaks. It is easier to remove the runoff and doesn't risk contaminating my food with dangerous toxins. The payoff is more than worth I reckon.

I can even use the microfiber attachment to clean a glass oven door – something you can’t do with chemicals lest you damage the heat-protective coating. Plus my oven isn’t left out of action overnight. It’s an instant win.

3. My kitchen floor

I will admit that I am a messy cook. I'm always dropping things or splashing things on my kitchen's vinyl floor, meaning it quickly becomes a bit of a mess. While I have a machine-washable rug from Ruggable that makes clean-up easy, the floor still needs a good scrub regularly.

I used to use yet another cheap and cheerful commercial cleaner to clean the kitchen floor. It was a scary shade of luminous pink, and I found that it did little to nothing to deal with the caked-on mess, especially when we first moved into our rental home.

The steam cleaner with the floor attachment, however, makes quick work of stains and spills and sanitizes the floor at the same time. Plus, it is quicker to dry so I don’t have to dance around on tiptoes after cleaning.

4. My microwave

Steam cleaning a microwave is nothing new. Many people clean a microwave with lemon by sitting half a fruit in some water and heating it up, allowing the citrus water to evaporate and steam grease away from the inside of the appliance.

While I am cleaning the rest of my kitchen, however, it is very quick to change out the microfiber pad on the glove attachment and give the inside a quick wipe around on the lowest steam setting. This approach collects all the dirt as I clean it off, taking one less step than the lemon approach.

5. My tile backsplash

Cleaning kitchen tiles is something I will do periodically throughout the week, using a microfiber cloth and a degreasing spray to remove splashes as they happen. But I will usually deep clean them and the grout with a steam cleaner around once a month, depending on my energy levels. As my tiles and grouting are white, I have found that this is the best approach to keep them bright.

The steamer makes quick work out of a job that would otherwise require some serious elbow grease. This device is really great for people with weak wrists or grip and takes the pressure off your hands.

6. My range hood

Cleaning a range hood is a tedious task at best. I don’t use my steamer for all of this, but I do use it to clean the mesh grate that sits directly above my stove. I will remove this and use a fine brush attachment to scrub and melt away grease to keep the range hood efficient.

For the hood itself, which is usually more dusty than dirty, I stick with my beloved Scrub Daddy Damp Duster to wipe over the tops to remove dust and keep my kitchen sparkling.

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While my steam cleaner is incredibly efficient, there are some things I don’t tackle with it. Most notably, cleaning a fridge and freezer. It should go without saying here that hot and cold do not mix. Instead, I stick to a good anti-bacterial spray and a microfiber cloth instead. You can even mix up a vanilla vinegar cleaner to deodorize a fridge if you need a little extra spruce up after some stinky leftovers.

The other area to avoid when using a steam cleaner is when cleaning a memory foam mattress or topper as the heat and water could easily ruin the foam and leave it open to mold.

I am always on the lookout for smart ways to clean my home without having to rely on chemicals. Not only does it save me money in the long run, but it also helps me detox my space.

Nothing has been as positively impactful as my Black & Decker steam cleaner. I have been able to find a use for it in every room, on everything from floors and walls, to clothing and upholstery. It's worth every penny and even better that the steam cleaner is reduced right now on Amazon for Black Friday.

Here, I break down all the ways I use H&G's number one best steam cleaner around my home for a thorough low-tox cleaning routine, and why I would never be without it.

Every way I use my steam cleaner in my non-toxic home

So far as non-toxic home essentials go, my steam cleaner is by far my favorite. I bought the seven-in-one Black & Decker steam mop, which came with attachments to clean everything from tiles to soft furnishings, including both hard floors and carpet.

Here's how I make the most of my investment around my home:

1. Cleaning my tiles

One of my favorite ways to use the steam cleaner around my home is cleaning shower grout. In the past, I used to clean with vinegar and an old toothbrush to scrub at the grout, relying on sheer elbow grease and determination to get the grout gleaming. In the worst case, I used to wipe it down with a cloth soaked in bathroom cleaner, skipping the scrubbing altogether and hoping for the best.

Now, I can clean the shower with only one tool. Better yet, only one attachment. I use the handheld one with the grout and tile brush to wipe over the shower walls, melt away soap scum and get rid of hard water stains. Then I scrub lightly along the grout lines to remove soap and bacterial stains, making the grout bright white again, as seen above.

2. All my flooring

My house has a mix of linoleum flooring, low-pile carpet, and cozy rugs. While my best vacuum cleaner does a lot to pick up hair and debris, it doesn't tackle grime and stains.

Instead of having a mop and a carpet cleaning machine cluttering up my already limited home storage, my steam cleaner covers them both. With microfiber pads and a carpet glide attachment, the steam cleaner allows me to flow from one room to the other.

For hard floors, as in my bathroom and kitchen, the steamer melts away sticky spots where I may have spilled sauce or some toothpaste. When cleaning carpets without a machine, the steamer loosens dirt and kills bacteria, neutralizing odors and making my home smell nice. It takes 30 minutes to dry, when I vacuum away any additional loose debris.

I said goodbye to chemical floor cleaners two years ago when I got this Black & Decker steamer and I haven't looked back since.

3. Upholstery and soft furnishings

I am a homebody through and through, which means my upholstered furniture and soft furnishings get a lot of use. That means an increased need to freshen up everything, from cleaning a couch to cushion covers and washing a comforter.

I can't exactly put all of these in my washing machine every other week, so I have come to rely on my steam cleaner and the upholstery attachment to kill bacteria and clean soft furnishings on a semi-regular basis. As a result, I probably clean them more often than if I relied on traditional cleaning methods, making my home more sanitary.

Steam cleaning a couch is simple. I remove all the additional pillows, vacuum up my biscuit crumbs, and then glide the steam over the surface to kill bacteria, loosen light stains, and remove odors from upholstery without having to clean with baking soda (which is a messy process that can damage your vacuum).

I follow the same process for cleaning chairs, pillows, and my bedding (I still wash bed sheets as usual every two weeks, of course. This is just an additional extra).

The only thing I cannot use my steamer for is cleaning a mattress, as it is made from memory foam which may melt or warp under high temperatures. Instead, I rely on a mattress protector that can be washed easily when doing laundry.

4. My oven

Cleaning an oven without chemicals is a top priority in my household, as my partner has food contamination OCD.

The steam cleaner with the oven brush is the only way I have successfully managed this. Other DIY cleaning solutions have left me with a dead arm and an oven still full of grease, while steaming melts the grease away, making it easy to mop up with paper towels.

I switch to the SteaMitt attachment (the glove might look scary when dealing with steam that can burn you, but your hand doesn't even feel warm when using it) to clean the glass oven door too without the fear that it will shatter. My oven looks brand new every time, even when I have put off cleaning it for far longer than I should.

6. Kitchen essentials

Steam cleaning is my new favorite way to cut kitchen cleaning times in half. So much so that I now clean my kitchen with only one tool.

Besides my oven, I use the SteaMitt to clean my microwave and clean the kitchen sink. It cleans kitchen grease instantly while killing bacteria that can lead to food contamination and illness.

6. Clothing

There are several ways to steam clothes without a traditional steamer, but I like to use my Black & Decker. It is a bit clunky to pull out to steam just one top, but it saves me money and space in my storage ideas to have one device I can do so many cleaning tasks with.

This is especially useful for my hand wash and (some) of my dry clean-only clothing. I hang the garment inside out on a hanger over the back of my bedroom door and steam them gently with the lowest steam setting. It quickly helps to get wrinkles out of clothes and kills odor-causing bacteria to freshen garments up between washes and keep laundry smelling nice beyond laundry day.

7. Dealing with pests

Luckily, using a steam cleaner to get rid of fleas is something I have only ever had to do once, but it was incredibly effective and meant that we didn't have to use harsh, hazardous chemicals.

When getting rid of fleas inside the house, I rigorously steamed basically everything we owned in a day (even pulling all the furniture around the room to reach every inch of carpet). It was very hard work that I wouldn't have been able to do without help, but it cleared the problem up in a day and we didn't need to call in experts or risk our health. Plus, my house was the cleanest it had ever been.

All these ways of using a steam cleaner around my house has gone a long way in making my chores easier, quicker and my household healthier. It has certainly improved my quality of life.

That being said, there are some things you should never steam clean in your home that you need to be aware of to avoid causing irreversible (and potentially costly) damage, like some mattresses and home tech.

Both are trusty appliances to own and do a lovely job of keeping our homes as clean as they should be. But which is better, steam cleaners or carpet cleaners? And why?

We've already compared carpet cleaners vs vacuum cleaners and found that there's value in owning both. The best vacuum cleaners are essential for any home, but a carpet cleaner can clean in a way that vacuums can't.

To an extent, the same goes for steam cleaners and carpet cleaners. Both have their advantages, but they also do things a little differently, so certain households might prefer one over the other. Read on to find out which cleaner is best for your home.

Steam cleaners vs carpet cleaners

To find out which is better suited to your home, we spoke with cleaning experts, covering everything there is to know about steam cleaners and carpet cleaners.

Steam cleaners vs carpet cleaners: What's the difference?

'Steam cleaners use hot steam to clean and sanitize surfaces, and they are suitable for a variety of surfaces – tiles, grout, upholstery, sealed hardwood floors, kitchen appliances, and bathrooms,' explains Aleksandar Kolarov from Fantastic Services. An important feature, Alexsandar adds, is that steam cleaners don't necessarily require any detergent or cleaning solution.

Instead, 'steam cleaners heat water until it becomes vapor, and this steam is then applied to surfaces, loosening dirt and killing germs without chemicals,' explains Michaelle Barbor, cleaning expert from Elfin View. 'The heat does most of the cleaning work.'

The way these works is by utilizing the 'high-temperature vapor steam that breaks the bond between the surface and the dirt while also easily killing mold and bacteria,' says Matthew Baratta, VP of operations at Daimer Industries.

When it comes to steam cleaning carpets, the high pressure of steam cleaners forces dirt and dust out of the fibers while clearing away stains. This makes it easier to then vacuum the mess away.

Carpet cleaners do things differently by actively utilizing some kind of cleaning agent. 'Carpet cleaners, or extractors, use detergents and water to deep clean carpets. They're very effective at removing embedded dirt and stains,' notes Austin Jones, CEO of Millennium Facility Services.

'Carpet cleaners are specifically designed for cleaning carpets and rugs, so use a combination of water, detergent, and suction to remove dirt and stains from carpet fibers. They may also include brushes or rollers to agitate and lift dirt,' adds Aleksandar.

The suction aspect is why they're also referred to as extractors. 'Brushes work the solution into the fibers, loosening dirt. Then they suck up the dirty water, leaving the carpet much cleaner,' as Michaelle puts it. Unlike steam cleaners, carpet cleaners remove everything themselves – so essentially they do the whole job.

The benefits of steam cleaners

Steam cleaners have two clear advantages over carpet cleaners: versatility and chemical-free cleaning.

Aleksandar puts it simply: 'Steam cleaners can be used on multiple surfaces beyond just carpets and are effective at killing bacteria, germs, and dust mites without chemicals.' As mentioned above, you can safely use steam cleaners on hard floors, carpets, rugs, furniture, upholstery, and even countertops. Carpet cleaners (like the name suggests) are only suited to carpets and rugs.

The benefits of chemical-free cleaning shouldn't be ignored, either. It helps you to tackle your home with a safer, less harsh, and more environmentally friendly approach. Plus, you'll be avoiding running costs down the line.

Jiri Smetana, owner of the restoration business PuroClean, illustrates this with his own experience: 'I've found the community appreciates a natural, green service and the light, fresh feeling a steam clean provides.'

'For light to medium dirt, steam cleaners can do a great job and the lack of detergents is appealing to many,' according to Austin, adding that more-soiled floors might instead benefit from a carpet cleaner.

Steam cleaners are notably lighter too, and are typically easier to assemble and use, making them even better suited to those quick, light cleans.

The benefits of carpet cleaners

While steam cleaners are the more versatile and environmentally friendly option, they're only ideal for light to medium dirt. Carpet cleaners are more intense, and therefore offer a more comprehensive clean.

'For heavily soiled or stained carpets, carpet cleaners are really the only option. The detergents and agitation from carpet extractors are much more effective at tackling tough stains and odors,' explains Austin.

Tim Conn, CEO of Image One USA, agrees: 'If you have a large or heavy carpet caked with years of dirt and stains, there is no better solution than a carpet cleaner. Upholstered sofas and mattresses are also ideal targets.'

Carpet cleaners also demand less effort as the machine does everything for you. Steam cleaning can often require wiping or vacuuming afterward, whereas a carpet cleaner will leave your floor clean and (mostly) dry to the touch.

For pet owners, a carpet cleaner is easily the best option. Many recent models have dedicated tools to clean pet messes, can remove stains from carpets & furniture, and even feature anti-odor technology.

Should I buy a steam cleaner or a carpet cleaner?

It depends on your household's needs, and it's also not a given that you should only own one or the other.

Steam cleaners are the ideal choice for light cleaning on different floor types, furniture, and surfaces. You'll avoid frequently using chemicals around the house, instead use high-temperature and high-pressure steam to break down dirt and sanitize it. They're easier to use, easier to assemble, and lighter.

As Aleksandar puts it: 'Steam cleaners are ideal solutions for those who need a versatile cleaning tool for various surfaces. They are suitable for households with hard floors, tile, and various types of upholstery and are also great for those looking to reduce chemical use and prioritize sanitization.'

But carpet cleaners are much more rigorous, pushing cleaning solutions deep into the carpet fibers and then extracting the dirty water. It leaves the job completely done and your floors as clean as they'll be, but they're only really suited to carpets and rugs (and occasionally furniture). Plus, they're a lot bulkier and will take up more space in the house.

Aleksandar clarifies: 'Carpet cleaners are best for homes with extensive carpeting or area rugs and are essential for households with pets, children, or high foot traffic that leads to frequent carpet soiling. They are ideal for those needing deep cleaning and stain removal capabilities specific to carpets.'

As mentioned above, the Shark CarpetXpert is easily the best carpet cleaner we could recommend. You'd be surprised by just how much it can change the look and feel of your carpets.

On the topic of cleaning, take a look through our tested guides to the best vacuums for pet hair and the best robot vacuums, to see if your home could do with an upgrade.

Steam mops are one of the many relatively new inventions that make our home cleaning easier and more thorough. Unlike traditional mops that use soapy water that must be wrung out, a steam mop provides the cleaning power itself, using the high temperature of steam to clean our hard floors.

As well as the best cordless vacuums and the best vacuums for pet hair, a steam mop is essential for anybody who appreciates a deep clean. It doesn't hurt that they make deep cleaning a much more painless process, too.

We spoke to the experts to find out exactly how to best use a steam mop and to use one as efficiently as possible for quicker cleaning and cleaner floors.

How to clean floors efficiently with a steam mop

Matthew Baratta, VP of Operations at Daimer Industries, explains the benefits of using a steam mop:

'Steam cleaners are incredibly versatile and ideal for hard surfaces, including sealed floors, tile, and grout,' he explains. 'A steam mop prevents the need for harsh chemicals or detergents. The high steam temperature helps kill fungus, mold, bacteria, and other allergens, which is perfect for sanitizing your home quickly and effectively.'

So, read on for our 4 essential steps to cleaning your floors efficiently with a steam mop.

1. Clear the floor

Whatever your floor, whether it's tile or wood, kitchen or bathroom - the floor should be prepped before you get the mop out.

Vacuum or sweep (thoroughly) to 'ensure all loose dirt, dust and other grit have been removed,' says Ken Doty, COO and cleaning expert at The Maids.

'If your floors are already badly soiled, a deep clean is necessary prior to the steam mop as dirt will be smeared all over.' Using steam on dirty floors will transform the dirt into a wetter, muddier consistency - so it's best to avoid this by making sure your floor is as clean as possible.

2. Apply cleaning solution (optional)

Once all the dirt has been removed, 'apply a cleaning solution which can be a mix of cleaning degreaser and water,' says Mause Ramirez, owner of MCS Cleaning Services. Then, 'let it sit for 20-30 minutes to better effect.'

This step is optional. The combo of steam and high temperature is capable of dislodging tough dirt on the floor - one of the many reasons why steam mopping is as popular, easy and environmentally-friendly as it is. But letting a cleaning solution rest on your floors can provide a deeper clean as the steam and cleaner work together.

You can make your own cleaning solution using water and dish soap or a cleaning degreaser. Or, for more reliable results, you could go for a dedicated floor cleaner like the The Pink Stuff Miracle All Purpose Floor Cleaner at Amazon.

Make sure you never use a cleaning solution inside the actual steam mop. Any type of cleaning solution can damage the mop, defeating its point as a chemical-free cleaner. It's ok if it's already on the floor, but only ever use water when filling up the steam mop.

3. Steam mop the floors

'Once the floor is ready, have multiple pads at the ready. Frequently changing your pads during cleaning is important, as once a pad is dirty the effectiveness dramatically decreases,' Ken explains.

'Prep your steam mop by filling the tank with water, wait for the water to boil and plug in your mop,' he adds.

Now, when it comes to steam mopping, the technique is very similar to mopping floors the right way. You can make things easier for yourself by starting from the edges and moving towards the center in a figure-of-eight. It help to work in sections, too.

To prevent dirt build up, Ken suggests to 'keep your mop moving and don't stay in one spot too long.' It's also advisable due to the temperature of the steam to avoid any damage to your hard floors.

'Regular use of steam mops on wooden floors will cause the shine of the wood to go' Mause says, adding that he's learnt the hard way that steam mopping wooden floors too regularly can cause damage. This is especially true for untreated hardwood floors due to their porous nature (but don't worry, there are alternative ways to clean your hardwood floors).

You don't need to clean floors every day, once a week is enough.

4. Clean steam mop

Clean the steam mop after every time you've finished using it, and make sure you drain the water tank to prevent stagnant water or mildew buildup.

'To clean your steam mop, refer to the care instructions that come with your model, but a general best practice is to wash the pads by hand before throwing them in the wash. Most pads are machine washable, and can be easily hung to dry,' Ken explains.

A steam mop is one of the many important parts of our essential cleaning toolkit, thanks to how sparkling and gleaming they leave our floors and how easy they make cleaning if you wear shoes indoors.

These days, some of the best robot vacuums even utilize steam mopping, and can take the effort away from you.

Floor cleaning can be a hassle that requires multiple tools for each surface and area, especially if you have a lot of foot traffic. If you’re someone who has as much hair as my fiancée and I do, it’s safe to say that my carpets and floors are in need of some TLC when it comes to deep cleaning.

I’ve lived in my place for four years and have worked from home for most of it, yet my cleaning routine has largely relied on a broom and regular vacuum cleaner, so an all-in-one multi-surface cleaner was a welcome and necessary change.

Enter the Bissell CrossWave Hydrosteam, a multi-surface cleaner designed with pet owners in mind. It’s ideal for cleaning up stains and messes more deeply than a vacuum alone since it steams and mops at once.

Bissell CrossWave Hydrosteam Specifications

Unboxing and setting up the Bissell CrossWave Hydrosteam

The CrossWave Hydrosteam was packaged in a cardboard box with some protective cardboard components around the body, handle, trial formulas, and clean-out and storage tray. The CrossWave Hydrosteam has the shape of a typical vacuum with a handle and body, though it has two different tanks: a clean tank for cleaning solutions, and a dirty water and debris tank that needs to be washed out after each use.

It also comes with a multi-surface brush roll as well as a clean-out and storage tray, which easily stores the components when the vacuum isn’t in use. The package also comes with an 8-ounce cleaning formula for hard and non-porous floors and carpets as well as a clean-out formula, though you’ll need to buy a full-size bottle after a few uses. The body and wand instantly clicked together and since this isn’t a chargeable carpet cleaner, I just had to plug it in when I was ready to clean.

Is it easy to use the Bissell Crosswave Hydrosteam?

I followed the lines on the water tank to add the right ratio of water and cleaning solution depending on if I was cleaning a small area (under 350 square feet) or large area (up to 700 square feet). The water tank had a small opening so I had some minor spills, so it may help to use a funnel and pour slowly.

There are 3 different modes that show up on the foot display: area rug mode, SteamWash Mode, and Hard Floor Mode, and the Mode button on the handle toggles between them. Admittedly, the icon for each mode wasn’t intuitive at first, so I relied on the user manual until I memorized each one. It’s also worth noting that the mode and clean-out cycle buttons looked similar to the untrained eye, so I recommend reading through the user guide before your first use.

The CrossWave Hydrosteam is relatively light and has an integrated carrying handle and tray, making it easy to move around and store when you’re done. It also has a headlight that’s helpful for dark corners and bathrooms.

Is the Bissell Crosswave Hydrosteam good on carpet?

Once I turned on the SteamWash mode, I followed the instructions to wait 30 seconds for the CrossWave Hydrosteam to warm up, which is denoted by the steam ready light on the foot of the vacuum, and hold the solution spray trigger under the handle for 10 seconds to wet the brush roll. Then, I just had to recline to get the brush roll spinning. This trigger dispenses the formula and steam in SteamWash mode, which I kept it on while going across my carpet. To dry the floor after, I let go of the solution trigger and went over the same areas.

I didn’t realize how much of the difference the CrossWave Hydrosteam made until I saw the dirty water tank after use, which was full of hair, dust, and dirt that my vacuum hadn’t picked up right before. I was conscious of the cord length since I was worried that the vacuum would unplug during my cleaning session, though it stayed in the entire time. I did have to move the cord out of my way as I went back over areas to suck up excess water, which is to be expected.

Is the Bissell Crosswave Hydrosteam good on hard floors?

The CrossWave Hydrosteam needs a mix of water and Bissell's hard floor sanitize solution, which is designed to clean and sanitize non-porous surfaces. When setting it up, I used the trigger to dispense the solution for 10 seconds to wet the brush roll, and then kept my finger on the trigger while going over my floors. I let them dry for 5 minutes and then released the trigger so I could go over the same areas and pick up excess water.

I appreciated the headlight for cleaning dark corners, and the cleaning solution didn’t leave any streaks. There was some stickier debris on my floors that didn’t budge with the CrossWave Hydrosteam, though I wasn’t necessarily surprised by that.

Cleaning the Bissell Crosswave Hydrosteam

The water tank was easy to remove with the click of a button while holding the handle on the water tank. From there, all that’s left is to disassemble the filter and strainer stem, rinse them off, and lay them out to dry for 24 hours. I did struggle the first time to put the tank back together the first time, but I got used to it afterward since the components click together fairly easily.

After the floors are clean, it’s time to clean the vacuum by emptying, rinsing, and wiping down the clean tank that stores cleaning solution as well as the dirty water and debris tank, which has a pet and human hair strainer to separate larger debris from dirty water. I really appreciated the pet hair strainer because I could throw out all the solid debris and rinse the rest off. I also took out the brush roll to dry, though I often had to rip long hair that wrapped around it during the cleaning process.

After each use, it’s recommended to run a Clean-Out Cycle, which uses the FreshStart cleaning solution in the water tank, and remove the brush roll to dry. Full disclosure - this is pretty tedious, since you’re repeating many of the same steps that you've already performed to clean your floor, but it also helps protect the longevity of the CrossWave Hydrosteam. From there, you just need to open the removable brush window and leave the brush roll to dry.

How does the CrossWave Hydrosteam rate online?

The CrossWave HydroSteam is relatively new to the market but is receiving primarily 4 and 5-star reviews on Amazon on Bissell’s site for its ability to steam and mop at the same time, and it’s a clear favorite among pet owners. The main critique was that some customers with large homes had to refill the water tank multiple times, which can be a hassle. However, most customers overwhelming preferred the CrossWave to mopping and appreciated the all-in-one design.

How does the CrossWave Hydrosteam compare to other vacuums?

If a cordless steam cleaner is higher on your list, the Bissell CrossWave Cordless Max may be a better fit, which has a 30-minute runtime and keeps the features you may love in the CrossWave Hydrosteam, like self-cleaning features and design that helps you reach every corner. The Dyson Ball Animal 3 vacuum has more suction power if you’re focused on vacuuming power alone. If you’re looking for a lighter steam mop that’s still easy to use, check out the Black + Decker 7-in-1 steam mop.

CrossWave Hydrosteam: Final Thoughts

If your home has carpet and hard floors, you’ll appreciate the all-in-one nature of the CrossWave Hydrosteam, especially if you like to steam your floors. It vacuums and mops all at once while still being easy to clean, even if your home has a lot of debris and hair. I’d appreciate a cordless version, though it’s not a dealbreaker because it has a 25 foot cord that can get you pretty far. Ultimately, this all-in-one powerhouse is hard to beat and would be a welcome addition to your cleaning routine.

The amount of items you can clean with a steamer could surprise you. While the appliance might be a favorite for cleaning up floors, it can be a great solution for an array of other surfaces and objects around the home – and in the yard.

What’s more, steam cleaning can clean many surfaces effectively with the smallest effort on your part. And, just as with floors, good hygiene doesn’t require the use of additional products, making the process of using steam cleaners and steam mops to clean straightforward.

To expand your fund of cleaning tips, we’ve put together a list of the things you can clean with a steamer, and why it’ll do a good job, and asked the experts to weigh in, too.

20 things you can clean with a steamer

Where we walk, and what we touch are among the home surfaces you might clean with a steamer – and there are more ways to use it besides.

‘There is virtually an endless list of surfaces that can be cleaned without using chemicals with vapour steam,’ says Matthew Baratta, VP operations at cleaning equipment company Daimer Industries. 

1. Oven

Cleaning an oven comes high on many people’s list of least-liked jobs, but clean with a steamer and it might not feel like such a tough chore. Removing burnt-on food is a whole lot easier – and achievable without strong chemicals. 

Do bear in mind a word of caution from Clare Ivatt of Kitchen TimeSavers, though: ‘Be careful when using a steam cleaner on an oven, particularly as the back, as the steam can shoot back out.’

2. Stove top

To clean stove grates and the stove top is another area you might want to clean with a steamer for a less effortful way to remove spills and food debris. Remove grates first then steam the surface with the nozzle attached. Make sure to wipe moisture off the stove top with paper towel or a microfiber cloth when you’re done.

3. Knobs and handles

The knobs and handles in the kitchen are some of the most frequently touched surfaces and bacteria and viruses can linger here. Use the steamer on these to disinfect, but make sure you dry them afterwards with a microfiber cloth.

4. Windows

Dirt builds up on windows over time, making interiors darker than they should be, but one way to clean windows easily is to use a steamer. Use a squeegee attachment for best results, but you could alternatively steam, squeegee, then wipe. As ever, it’s a microfiber cloth that’s best for this last stage.

5. Toilet

A steamer is a great tool for sanitizing the toilet. ‘Use the jet attachment around the base of the toilet, then lift the seat and clean out all the nooks and crannies,’ says Alicia Franklin, owner of Cleaning Green. 

6. Grout

Cleaning grout can be challenging, often requiring a scrubbing brush and plenty of elbow grease. Whether it’s on the floor or the wall, grout can get grubby because of dirt tracked into the home, spills in the kitchen, or the growth of mold in humid bathrooms.

Bear in mind that scrubbing with the brush attachment might still be required, but we promise the steam makes the task easier.

7. Counters

Counters are also surfaces that are touched frequently, so steam cleaning can sanitize these expanses. Make sure to wipe up any crumbs first, then use the steamer. Wipe dry afterwards with a microfiber cloth. 

8. Dishwasher

Dishwashers can accumulate food debris over time from plates that aren’t properly rinsed and these can end up clogging the filter. Cleaning a dishwasher is vital to the appliance's health and squeaky clean china. Steam cleaning the appliance can help get rid of the particles that cause problems down the line, too. 

‘Use the nozzle attachment and steam clean all of the stuck-on food hiding in the corners and in the drain,’ advises Alicia Franklin.

9. Mattresses

As we spend roughly one-third of our lives in bed, lose fluid and shed dead skin each night, and beds harbor dust mites and their allergy-aggravating droppings, cleaning a mattress is a task that shouldn’t be neglected, and a steam cleaner can come to the rescue.

To preserve the life of your mattress, vacuum it first, then apply steam, allowing the mattress to dry fully afterwards. The only caveat: your steamer needs to be able to heat the water to at least 212ºF (100ºC) for this task.

10. Outdoor furniture

Make the very most of your steam cleaner by using it for some backyard tasks, too. ‘I love steam cleaners for cleaning outdoor furniture,’ says garden expert Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love. ‘It’s great for upholstered furniture and things like canvas tarps or umbrellas, but it’s also good at cleaning any kind of furniture – plastic, vinyl, wood, etc.

‘Just be careful with wood as too much direct steam can start to warp it,’ he adds. ‘I recommend covering wood furniture in a thin towel and then using a steam cleaner.’

11. Grill

While you’re cleaning outdoors, you might want to steam clean the grill, too. ‘Removing grime usually involves chemicals and lots of scrubbing to get yesterday’s meat off the grill’s rails,’ says Roman Peysakhovich, CEO of national cleaning company Onedesk. ‘A steam cleaner can come in handy when you need to clean the grill. Simply use a small brush attachment to thoroughly (and easily) clean each wire.’

12. Pet cages and beds

The wire cages in which your household companions live can be cleaned with a steamer. Of course, the cage’s inhabitant needs to be safe and secure elsewhere when you perform this task, but it makes the chore easy and avoids the use of chemicals that might have an adverse effect on the cage’s occupant. A steamer can also be ideal for freshening dog crates.

13. Kids’ toys

Using a steamer can be a great way to sanitize plastic kids’ toys and clean bath toys, and it will make the job quicker than putting them into the dishwasher or cleaning by hand in soapy water. Before you get the steamer out, though, check that they’re not steam sensitive.

14. Ceiling fans

Their location makes ceiling fans hard to clean, but a steamer can make the job super straightforward. Even better, it could save you from having to climb a ladder.

‘Most steam cleaners come with a long wand which you can use along with an attachment,’ says Roman Peysakhovich. ‘To clean ceiling fans with a steamer, simply attach a clean cloth to the brush and gently glide the wand across the fan blades.’

15. Drapes and curtains

Avoid the hard work of taking down drapes and curtains for cleaning by using a steam cleaner while they’re in situ. 

‘Using a steam cleaner is an excellent way to clean drapes and curtains,’ says Angela Boswell, co-founder of custom curtain company The Drape. ‘It is like giving your curtains a hot bath and ironing all at one time.’

16. Patio door tracks

Dirt tends to gather in patio door tracks and it can hinder the movement of the doors. The answer? Steaming can loosen what’s accumulated and then all that’s required is to use paper towels to remove the stuff that’s been impeding the doors’ smooth running.

17. Refrigerator

Another job many of us delay, cleaning a refrigerator can be made easier with a steamer. It’s still important to remove crumbs and other debris after clearing it of food, and to wipe up any spills. After that, steam anything that still needs to be lifted and wipe to complete the task.

18. Faucets

Limescale can build up on faucets over time – something you’ll be particularly conscious of if you live in an area with hard water – and taps with a crust don’t look good. You can shop at the store for products to remove this buildup, but steaming them off is a great alternative, and means you don’t have to worry about whether the finish of your faucets and the cleaning product are compatible.

19. Upholstery

Steaming isn’t just a way to clean outdoor furniture; it’s a winner for the upholstered furniture in your living spaces, too. A steam cleaner can lift dirt and get rid of odors from furniture as well.

Make sure to check the furniture’s care instructions first to be sure you can steam clean it. It’s also worth spot cleaning a small unobtrusive area before you go ahead and steam clean seating. 

20. Floors and area rugs         

You might have invested in a steamer in the first place to avoid the hard work of mopping floors, but be aware that one of these could also do a great job on cleaning an area rug. Do a patch test, and check the manufacturer’s guidelines, and make sure you vacuum lose dirt before steaming.

What can you not steam clean?

There are a few things you should avoid steam cleaning. ‘Identifying surfaces that can be easily damaged by heat is a necessity,’ says Adriana Aziz, operations manager of MaidForYou, where steam cleaners are a part of the team’s house cleaning kit. ‘Bamboo floors, sensitive carpets, and unsealed natural stone tiles are just some of the few areas we recommend for our teams to avoid using their steam cleaners on.’  

As a rule don’t steam clean unsealed, polished, freshly painted, or waxed surfaces, says Roman Peysakhovich, who also emphasizes that neither musical instruments nor antiques should be cleaned with a steamer.

Can you steam clean shower glass?

Steaming is an excellent way to get shower glass clean and clear, especially if you live in a region with hard water where limescale builds up on the glass over time. You might need an attachment to scrub at heavy deposits, while a squeegee is essential to get a streak-free finish.

I have been covering appliances and homecare products for nearly a decade now, and in that time, the cleaning and floorcare industry has struck me as one of the most innovative. Thanks to a heightened interest in cleaning due to certain world events and social media 'cleanfluencers', we have seen huge advances in the technology that allows you to power-clean your home.

People are also looking for ways to sanitize their homes as thoroughly as possible without the use of harsh, or even toxic, chemicals. And this is where steam cleaners rightly maintain their superiority. Cleaning with steam is fast, non-toxic, and, by using temperatures over 212°F, an effective way to kill up to 99.99% of bacteria, viruses and mold spores.

It is also incredibly versatile – everything from floors to bathrooms, textiles and even grills can be easily cleaned with steam. But with so many tasks for steam cleaners to take on, you will need to choose a machine optimized for the jobs you do most regularly.

Here, we have combined knowledge from our extensive floorcare testing with advice from cleaning experts, equipping you with everything you need to know before buying a steam cleaner. We break down the features a good steam cleaner absolutely cannot be without, and compare the specs our favorite steam mop and cleaner brands offer. We also explain what benchmarks to look for when it comes to steam pressure, power and water tank capacity, so you can confidently choose the best steam cleaner for keeping your home clean – no matter how many sticky fingers or muddy paws are against you.

Steam Mop vs. Steam Cleaner

Here, when we say 'steam cleaner', we mean any cleaning device that uses boiling water to sanitize. That includes steam mops.

All steam mops are steam cleaners, but not all steam cleaners are in mop format. When deciding between a steam mop and other steam cleaners, it depends on what you want to use it for. So if floor care is your main goal, choose one optimized for cleaning floors – these are often, but not always, labeled as 'steam mops'.

Types of Steam Cleaner

The first step in choosing the right steam cleaner, is knowing what type you need. Then you can consider tools, features, and accessories.

Uprights or steam mops are for cleaning floors fast. Great if your home has loads of hard flooring. They are a lifesaver if you have kids or pets and feel you need a deeper clean than vacuuming and wet-mopping can offer.

Handheld steam cleaners are much smaller units that are great for grout, counters, bathrooms and even BBQs. If you don't intend to use a steam cleaner for flooring, but do want a tool for targeted low-toxin cleaning, this is for you.

2-in-1 hybrid steam cleaners offer the most versatility. They may present in upright or canister format, and can take the place of a steam mop if you use the floorcare foot. They also have brushes, nozzles and tools that allow them to do the same jobs as handhelds. The trade-off is that they tend to take up a lot of storage space, so are best for those who do a lot of regular deep cleans.

There are also commercial options used in places like healthcare environments or for textile cleaning. They are very powerful but can cost thousands of dollars, so are reserved for places where deep cleaning is vital.

How to choose the best steam cleaner or mop for your needs 

Whether you choose a mop or a handheld, there are a few things to check before buying any steam cleaner.

Corded or Cordless?:
While cordless is very common technology for vacuums, it is less so in the world of steam cleaners. This is because the power needed to heat water to boiling point can quickly deplete even the best batteries. For flooring and extensive cleans, opt for a corded machine. There are some smaller handhelds that are cordless, but the best we found only had a run time of 10 to 15 minutes which will not be sufficient for most jobs.

Cord Length:
With there being fewer good cordless options on the market, cord length becomes very important. For steam mops, look for a cord length of at least 20 feet to give good range. Constantly changing outlets is particularly annoying when contending with damp floors and an upright that is hard to put down.

For canister options, you can get away with a slightly shorter cord as they tend to have an extension hose that offers plenty of scope. 15 to 18 feet is adequate.

If you have a smaller handheld for targeted cleaning, a compact cord is fine and less likely to get in the way. Just make sure it is long enough to reach an outlet for cleaning hard-to-reach areas in your bathroom, or even outdoors.

Water Tank:
If you’re cleaning a large space, this determines how often you’ll have to replace the water. However, steam mops tend not to have massive tanks because that makes the unit heavier and less manoeuvrable. Look for a tank that is at least 10 to 16 ounces for your handheld or upright steam cleaner, and you should get a satisfying 15 to 20 minutes of continuous cleaning.

With a canister, you should look for a larger tank to maximise use. The water tank will sit on the canister and not be lifted while cleaning, so 40–50 ounces is common and will allow for at least 30 minutes of cleaning (though in the most efficient models this could be as much as an hour).

Continuous Fill vs. Boiler
Some steam cleaners boil the whole tank at once. This is great for quick domestic tasks and the tech tends to be more affordable. However, you usually need to let the tank cool and depressurize before refilling or putting away, which can be a hindrance.

A continuous-fill steam cleaner, on the other hand, has two tanks. One is a reservoir for the clean water, and the other is a pressurized boiler delivered to the hose or steam foot. These offer a much more seamless clean as they can be refilled as you go, but they do cost more. Invest in one if you clean with steam frequently, or clean large areas.

Weight:
A lightweight option is most important for handheld and mop-format steam cleaners. Two to five pounds is manageable for most people, though look for the lighter side if you plan to clean overhead. Canisters can weigh over 15 pounds when empty, and more once the tank is full. Bear this in mind if you will be carrying the unit up and down stairs.

Spec Checklist: Performance Features to Look Out For

The physical attributes of your steam cleaner are important in themselves, but will also impact the machine's performance. Higher-capacity tanks offer longer run time, but can take longer to heat. Higher-power mops will offer a deeper clean, but may weigh more due to more elaborate mechanics.

When reading the specs, look out for the following:

• Heat Time: Less than 30 seconds is great, especially with a handheld
• Run Time: 20 minutes is good for an upright or handheld. Expect 30+ from canister models
• Wattage: Look for 1400W+ to ensure quick heating and steady pressure
• Steam Pressure: 40-60+ PSI for the strength to blast through grease and grime
• Temperature: High heat setting of 212°F to kill bacteria
• High/Low Settings: Models with variable pressure settings mean you can tackle heavy soiling, but also approach sensitive surfaces like sealed hardwood with care.
• Trigger or Button: Some are just an on/off button, while others include a trigger that deploys steam when you press it.
• Auto Shut-Off: This is an important feature that protects the heating element by switching it off if the water tank runs dry

Flooring Compatibility & Safety

Whenever you use steam, you run the risk of damaging your flooring with high heat or moisture exposure. Steam mop cleaning pads and floor attachments for your steam cleaner help limit these risks, as do variable steam controls, but you should always be careful when cleaning floors, especially those made of wood or laminate.

Look for a steam cleaner with settings for different flooring types. You can even steam clean carpet with the right attachments.

With all flooring, check the steam cleaner manufacturer's advice and your flooring warranty too, but here are some tips for cleaning different surfaces with steam.

Attachments and Accessories

Steam cleaners often come equipped with a multitude of accessories for cleaning various surfaces. Here are some of the most common ones:

Microfibre Pads:
For mopping and large surfaces, your cleaner will need some kind of floor-cleaning pad. These are usually microfibre to offer gentle but thorough cleaning, and may attach with Velcro or slip on to the foot. Always look for machine washable pads for easy maintenance.

Carpet Gliders:
If you have a mix of hard and soft flooring, a carpet glider can be invaluable. They come as a foot attachment or adaptor and deliver a controlled shot of steam for sanitizing carpets. They won't lift dirt, but can reduce bacteria and smells after vacuuming.

Brushes:
Many steam cleaners come with brushes for targeted cleaning. Most brushes are nylon, which enables you to gently clean faucets, counters, and sinks. You can also get metal brushes made from brass or stainless steel, designed for cleaning grills or heavy grease on hardwearing surfaces.

The brush kit may have different sizes and shapes for various uses, too. Small detail brushes get into corners. They may be labeled as grout brushes, designed to lift dirt from grout lines, while reducing the impact of the heat and steam that could cause cracks. Large round and flat brushes can be used for cleaning large surfaces like tiled walls, and shower screens or trays.

Squeegees:
A squeegee attachment is perfect for cleaning shower screens, mirrors, windows and other high-shine surfaces.

Garment-Steaming Attachment:
Some brands such as Karcher, offer garment-steaming attachments to turn your steam cleaner into a garment steamer. This can be used to remove creases, but also freshen curtains and other textiles to remove odor. These prevent the damage that could occur with your standard steamer nozzles, but always test on an inconspicuous area first.

Fragrance Disks:
Some cleaners have a scent tray or pocket on the mop pad to add fragrance to your clean. Always check they are compatible with your cleaner and never add to a water tank unless the manufacturer advises.

Care & Maintenance

Steam cleaners need frequent maintenance to increase their lifespan and ensure they have optimal cleaning abilities. As well as cleaning the floor pads and brushes, you will need to think about the inner workings that are a bit harder to get at.

Like anything using water, they can be prone to scale build-up. So, if you live in a hard water area, consider using distilled or filtered water. You could also look for a model with autoclean functions to help keep the machine clean.

There are a few things you need to do to protect your machine from mold and smells.

After every use:

• Empty the water tank and leave the inlet open to allow it to dry before storing
• Wash any pads or brushes in hot water

Every one to three months:

• Descale the heating chamber. You can use a mix of white vinegar and water, or specialist cleaning tablets. Check the manufacturer's instructions
• Clean any steam nozzles or inlets with a small pin or paper clip to release mineral build up or mold

Which is the Best Steam Cleaner Brand?

The best steam cleaner brand for you depends on what you want to clean and how large a space you need to cover. Some brands such as Bissell and Shark really prioritise the floorcare aspect with easy-to-manoeuvre upright models. While Dupray and McCulloch specialise in heavy-duty cleans across multiple surfaces, but these tend to result in a larger unit that is heavier and will need more storage space.

Pricing is as broad as it is for other floorcare machines — simpler handheld models are often less than $100, while self-cleaning, professional-grade cleaners will often be $500 or more. $150 can get you a good cleaner that balances at-home convenience with plenty of tools and features.

Compare the key brands and what each is best for below.

FAQs

Steam Mop vs. Mop-Vac: What's the Difference?

Steam mops use high heat to dissolve grease and sanitize surfaces. Mop vacs are an all-in-one that can lift wet and dry messes at once.

The latter is great for daily cleans and catching spills, but will not provide a deep clean. And, it will need special solutions adding to sanitize surfaces.

If you want a budget-friendly way to deep clean, choose a steam mop. If you regularly use a cleaning company, a mop-vac can be great for top-up cleans.

Can you Get Robot Steam Cleaners?

There have been a few robot steam cleaners, but they are often constrained by the demands heating water puts on a battery. So, as yet, they are not widespread and are often pricey.

If you want automated floor sanitization, consider one of the many high-end robot vacuums that include mops. They use cold water, so a solution needs to be added to kill bacteria. Therefore, manual steam mops will better suit most people if your goal is sanitization and deep grime removal.

Can I use a Steam Cleaner on All Flooring, Including Vinyl Plank?

The short answer, is no. Excessive heat and moisture will damage flooring that includes glued planks or vinyl coatings. Steam mops should be used on fully-sealed floors at low steam settings when advised by flooring manufacturer.

Can you put Floor Cleaner or Essential Oils in a Steam Mop

This is tempting, but no – you should not add anything but water to your steam mop tank unless it is designed for that use. Oils and cleaners can damage the heating element and void your warranty, or leave residue on the floors.

With steam, you don't need a cleaning solution as the heat does the trick. Steam also kills bad-smelling bacteria, so you do tend to get a very clean aftersmell as long as the machine and tools are clean and well-maintained. If fragrance is important to you, follow your steam clean with a fragranced floor spray and wet mop, or look for manufacturer approved fresh disks.

Does Steam Cleaning Kill 99.9% of Bacteria?

As long as steam is produced and water heated to 212°F (or 100°C), then yes. For best results, target each area for 10 to 15 seconds with multiple passes to maximise impact.

What Kind of Water Can I use in my Steam Cleaner?

Tap water might include hard minerals that leaves deposits and blocks nozzles. Over time this can damage your cleaner and the heating element, making it less effective or even breaking it.

Extend the machine life by using distilled or demineralized water.

How do I Get the Most From my Steam Cleaner?

If you are using your cleaner or steam mop for flooring, always vacuum or give it a good sweep first to remove all dry debris. You might also want to pre-mop any heavy soiling such as wet or dried-on spills first, so the floor head cleaning pad does not become overloaded with grime.

The same applies for other surfaces. While a steam cleaner will lift dirt, grease and grime, removing what you can first prevents build-up on tools.