The secret of steam cleaning lies in the powerful combination of pressure, speed and temperature. The tiny particles of steam penetrate even the most hard-to-reach recesses and successfully loosen dust particles. Since steam cleaning does not use chemical cleaning products, no allergen residues are formed on the cleaned surfaces. This creates a safe environment, especially for children, who tend to put objects in their mouths, and for those who suffer from allergies.

Main features 

1. Type 

There are 3 basic types of steam cleaner based on design: handheld, stick & with wheels

Handheld

They are a very practical size and weight, so you can handle them with your hand. They resemble a classic water kettle and usually come with various accessories. They are ideal for various surfaces and spots that are hard to reach, such as corners, tile grout, etc.

Stick

Visually, they resemble a stick vacuum and you may also see them as steam mops. They have smaller water capacity and are lighter, however, they heat up faster and are ideal for a quicker but effective cleaning. 

With wheels

Visually, they look like a classic vacuum cleaner. They have a water tank, which is usually larger in capacity and is mounted on the wheeled unit. Due to their larger construction, they are more powerful and with higher steam pressure, which makes them ideal for more intensive cleaning on larger surfaces and for more stubborn stains. Although they are a heavier and bulkier device, all the weight is distributed to the wheeled part of the unit, relieving the hands and making cleaning more comfortable and less tiring. 

2. Steam pressure (Bar)

Steam pressure determines the power of a steam cleaner and is measured in bar. The higher the pressure, the more efficient the cleaning 

Steam cleaners with pressure up to 3 bar, have low pressure and are more suitable for disinfection, rather than stain removal. 

With pressure from 3.1 to 3.9 bar they have moderate steam pressure and, in addition to disinfection, can clean smooth surfaces (sinks, floors, etc.).

Steam cleaners with 4 bar and above have high steam pressure and excellent performance in cleaning hard surfaces and stubborn stains (grease and residues on grills, oven racks, etc.).

3. Water tank capacity

The water tank capacity determines how often refilling is needed. The larger the size, probably, the longer the runtime. If you prefer a steam cleaner with long runtime, you can see steam cleaners with a large water tank.

4. Preheating time

It is the required time needed for the device to heat up, so that it produces steam and is ready for operation. The shorter the time, the easier it is to start cleaning! 

There are steam cleaners that may need even 10-11’ of preheating. 

If time is precious to you, you can choose a steam cleaner with fast heating, meaning it heats up in less than 30’’. 

5. Cord length (meters)

You may not pay attention to this, but keep it in mind. 

Think about how close an outlet is to the areas or spots you want to clean and estimate the cord length you will need.

A longer cord length, about 4.5 meters or more, provides greater reach without having to constantly switch outlets. 

Do you want the steam cleaner to pick up crumbs?

Then choose one with suction function, so you can collect small dirt particles, such as dust, crumbs, etc.

Additional Features

Steam Cleaner with Safety Valve: A device for all applications (small and large) with the drawback that for very large surfaces, a brief pause in cleaning may be required when the water runs out in order to refill the water and produce steam again, and the advantage that they usually have a very good price/performance ratio.

Steam Cleaner with Removable and Refillable Water Tank: For continuous water supply without downtime and stop-start during the cleaning process.

Steam Cleaner with Hot Water Supply (in addition to steam): For very stubborn dirt, there are also steam cleaners that allow you to adjust the temperature and spray hot water or very wet steam directly onto the stain to remove it.

What will you use it for? 

See the features you should pay the most attention to, based on the use you plan to make of it.

Disinfection 

If your main goal is cleaning and disinfecting hard-to-reach areas, which, however, do not have stubborn stains, choose a steam cleaner handheld, with pressure up to 3 bar. 

For quick cleaning in a room

If you have limited time for cleaning and your need is to clean a room quickly and effectively, choose a steam cleaner with a pole, with pressure of at least from 3.1 bar and above, and fast heating, so you don't waste time waiting.

For stubborn stains 

If you want a steam cleaner for disinfection, for stubborn stains and relatively long use, then choose one with wheels, pressure from 4 bar and above, and with a large water tank. 

Don't forget! Many times there may be a difference in a product, based on its overall features as well as its construction. Before you decide, read other users' reviews too, to see their opinion as well!