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Steam Cleaners Explained and Glossary

Jan 26

Written by: host
26/01/2012 11:44  RssIcon

Cleaning with a good quality steam cleaner is quick and easy, it cleans faster and more easily than conventional cleaning methods.

Simply put  - ordinary tap water is heated to above 100 o Celsius. The dry steam that is produced loosens the dirt and germs, which are then collected on the cloth. Dry steam is steam you get that has been heated to over 100 o Celsius so that it is in its gaseous form (water which is almost moisture less steam) at point of contact. This steam is drier than kettle steam so surfaces dry faster and it also sanitises as it cleans.

The benefit is that it uses no chemicals which is also excellent news for asthma and allergy sufferers. Good quality steam cleaners can kill dust mites and neutralise their allergens, assisting asthma, allergy and respiratory sufferers. Mattresses are a favourite breeding place for house dust mites - ‘dry steam’ allows you to clean the mattresses regularly with minimal effort and drying time.

With the large selection of cleaning heads supplied steam cleaners will clean many surfaces in and around the home e.g carpets, hard floors, tiles, ovens, fridges, bathrooms, beds, mirrors, children's toys, windows the list is endless.

When buying a steam cleaner the terminology used can be quite confusing so the glossary below should help.

Steam Cleaner Glossary


Steam Output – Usually measured in grams per minute. The higher the steam volume the more efficient the cleaner.

Variable Steam Output – The amount of steam can be adjusted depending on the cleaning task. Turning the steam volume down makes the tank of water last longer.

Bar Operating Pressure – Measures the cleaners steam power, 3 bar pressure or above ensures the steam is at least 100 oC at point of contact killing germs and bacteria.

Steam Temperature – Steam over 100oC at point of contact will ensure total sanitation; it will also kill household dust mites and their allergen.

Watts – The higher the wattage the quicker the unit will heat up.

Safety ‘Lock Off ’ – Prevents accidental operation.

Capacity  - The amount of water the steam cleaner will hold. The larger the capacity the longer the steam cleaning time, however larger capacity cleaners will take longer to heat up.