You may have seen numerous television ads and products in stores that promote the use of Steam Cleaning Equipment (steam clean floors). Many people have varying opinions on how effective steam cleaners are, and there certainly are different benefits to steam cleaning compared to more traditional methods such as a mop and bucket. Non-traditional methods are using steam mops. So, which methods are best? Is floor & steam cleaners really the better option? Depending on what you’re cleaning and what your needs are, you may find that steam cleaning products are the best choice for you. Some examples of these equipment are the Steamvac Range.
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Steam Cleaning Pros
Quick to dry for hard surfaces
In Steam Cleaning Equipment (steamer for cleaning floors), if you are using a steam mop or cleaner on hard surfaces, you will notice how much faster a steam clean takes to dry compared to a traditional mop and bucket. Steam cleaners are great for hard surfaces as the steam is quick drying, making it a great option for places where the area needs to be able to be used within a short time. Areas like walkways in commercial buildings will benefit greatly from a steam cleaned floor.
Highly effective clean
As mentioned in the cons section, Steam Cleaning Equipment have a very high temperature output of steam. Although this may cause a safety issue if used incorrectly, it actually helps the cleaner to provide sanitation on the surface it is working on. Bacteria is often unseen by the naked eye, but when a steam mop comes in with very high temperature steam, this helps the bacteria and germs to be killed, providing a completely sanitary result.
Less chemicals
If you’re using Steam Cleaning Equipment around pets and children, you may be worried about the potential dangers of chemicals that traditional floor cleaners use. However, this isn’t an issue when using a steam cleaner. Because the steam itself is what sanitises the surface, you won’t need to use any chemicals. This makes for a great option for those wishing to keep pets and children safe, as well as being more environmentally friendly.
Steam Cleaning Equipment can be used on multiple surfaces
Steam Cleaning Equipment aren’t just for floors. In fact, there are many different products on the market that actually allow different attachments to be used in order to steam clean anything from car interiors, kitchens and windows to sliding doors, mirrors and furniture. In this regard, you could have the option to clean almost any area of the home with just one piece of equipment.
Choosing the Right Surface for Steam Mopping
When it comes to steam mops, understanding which surfaces are suitable is crucial. They work well on most hard floors, such as vinyl, ceramic tiles, linoleum, marble, stone, and sealed timber. However, caution is needed with certain materials:
- Cork Tiles and Unsealed or Waxed Timber: Steam mops can damage these surfaces.
- Timber and Laminate Flooring: Manufacturers often warn that steam can seep between boards, potentially causing expansion and damage over time, including delamination and buckling. Always check your flooring manufacturer’s warranty for specific guidance.
- Vinyl Tiles: While generally acceptable, steam may weaken the adhesive between joins.
For sealed ceramic or stone tiles, steam mops are typically safe, but verifying compatibility with your specific tile is a good practice.
In essence, while steam cleaning tools offer versatility beyond floors, ensuring you use them on appropriate surfaces safeguards your home’s finishes and prolongs their lifespan.
Easier to maintain
Depending on the steam cleaner you choose, cleaning your equipment may be as simple as throwing a reusable pad into the washing machine. Many steam cleaners utilize reusable pads or filters that simply need to be washed before their next use. This means your steam cleaner can last a lot longer, plus you can save a lot of money on not having to buy refills and replacement mop heads.
For ongoing maintenance, it’s advisable to use distilled or de-mineralised water in your steam mop. This prevents limescale build-up, which is especially important if you’re in a hard water area. If you do encounter a clog, a simple paper clip can help dislodge mineral build-up from the nozzle.
While cleaning methods can vary, some manufacturers suggest using a 1:3 ratio of white vinegar to water. However, others caution against this as it might void your warranty. Always check your steam mop’s manual for specific cleaning recommendations to ensure you’re maintaining it properly and adhering to warranty guidelines.
Steam Mop vs. Regular Mop: Which is Right for You?
Cleaning floors can be a daunting task, and with options like steam mops on the market, it’s natural to wonder if this tool is a worthwhile investment over the traditional mop and bucket. Here’s a breakdown of how these two cleaning methods stack up against each other.
Efficiency in Cleaning
Water Residue
One of the primary concerns with mopping is the water residue left behind. Steam mops tend to excel in this area, often leaving floors less wet due to their efficient steam evaporation process. The broader mop head of steam mops also means covering more ground quickly compared to traditional mops.
Stain and Spill Removal
Steam mops shine in lifting tough stains owing to the power of steam that breaks down grime without needing extra chemicals. Regular mops, while effective in managing spills, might require more elbow grease or additional cleaning agents to achieve similar results. However, for larger spills, a traditional mop is more practical, as steam mops lack the capacity to absorb and hold water.
Ease of Use
Convenience
For those looking for an easier mopping experience, steam mops tend to simplify the task. They negate the need for filling and carrying water buckets, squeezing out the mop, and dealing with dirty water disposal. While they require a power source and come with an electrical reach limitation, the overall convenience can outweigh these drawbacks for many users.
Setup and Maintenance
Steam mops can be straightforward to use, but they do require a basic understanding of their operation, like filling the water tank or managing settings. Regular mops, by contrast, are simple and intuitive right out of the box.
Suitability for Different Floor Types
Wooden Floors
Caution is advised when using steam mops on certain wooden floors. While some sealed wooden floors may handle steam well, others, especially those that are unsealed, could suffer damage. Traditional mops offer more flexibility here, providing a safer option for a variety of surfaces.
Cost Consideration
Price Range
In terms of cost, steam mops generally carry a higher upfront price, ranging significantly based on features and brand. They also incur ongoing electricity costs. Traditional mops, however, are very affordable, and while they lack the advanced features, they are a cost-effective choice that does not use power.
Hygiene and Sustainability
Sanitation
Both steam mops and regular mops can effectively clean and sanitize floors. Despite claims of steam mops killing more bacteria, using hot, soapy water with a regular mop can achieve similar levels of cleanliness.
Environmental Impact
From a sustainability perspective, steam mops reduce the need for chemical cleaners but contribute to electronic waste. Opting for high-quality, durable models can mitigate some environmental concerns. Regular mops, especially those made from renewable materials, have a lower environmental footprint but may require periodic replacement of mop heads.
Conclusion
Choosing between a steam mop and a regular mop boils down to personal preferences and specific needs. Steam mops offer convenience and efficiency, making them suitable for those with mobility challenges or those prioritizing a quick and easy clean. On the other hand, regular mops remain a reliable, budget-friendly option for eco-conscious users and those who prefer traditional cleaning methods. Consider your flooring type, cleaning needs, and budget before making your choice.
Some of the drawbacks of Steam Cleaning
Steam Cleaning Equipment may come at a higher price
floor & steam cleaners usually cost a little more than a traditional mop and bucket. Because of the higher manufacturing costs required to produce the equipment, you will need to pay a little more upfront for a steam cleaner. However, one thing you will have to bear in mind is that a steam cleaner only requires water for use. A traditional mop and bucket system will need some form of floor cleaner to add to the water in order to clean and disinfect your floors, meaning more costs per clean. If you want to end up saving money in the long run, a higher initial outlay price may just be worth it.
The steam is incredibly hot
The steam used in floor & steam cleaners gets to very high temperatures, which in some cases can be a safety hazard. The user simply needs to be aware of the steam, and understand how to best use their cleaning product to avoid any kind of injury. Although this is listed as a con, it’s actually one of the benefits of steam cleaning as the high temperatures are what ensures the effectiveness.
Cleaning more often
You may find that floor & steam cleaners requires you to clean more often than using a traditional mop and bucket. Some people believe that a mop and bucket enables you to really get the dirt ingrained in your floors, whilst a steam mop only really cleans the surface of the floor. Depending on the flooring you are cleaning, you may find this to be false. A lot of steam cleaners can work into small grooves in the floor where a mop wouldn’t normally reach. Of course, this depends on the surfaces you’re working with and the strength of your steam cleaner.
Long drying times for carpet
In Steam Cleaning Equipment, using steam for carpets, you may have to wait up to 24 hours for the carpet to be completely dry and able to be walked on again. This could be inconvenient for some, especially if the carpet is in a workplace or commercial area. However, steam cleaning carpets doesn’t have to be done too often, and it’s actually a great way to sanitise the carpet and offer a deep clean. You will notice that steam cleaners on carpets can help to freshen the look and feel of carpets and remove any nasty smells.
While many steam mop models claim to rejuvenate carpet and upholstery, it’s important to understand their limitations. They do refresh the carpet’s appearance, giving it a cleaner look and a fresher scent, but they don’t actually clean it thoroughly. This means that while steam mops are excellent for surface refreshment, for a deeper clean, you might need a more robust cleaning method.
In summary, steam cleaning with specialized equipment can be a powerful tool in maintaining the aesthetic and hygiene of carpets, but knowing when and how to use steam mops effectively is key to achieving the best results.
