Cleaning Service Business Tip: How to Choose the Right Steam Cleaner

Benefits of Steam Cleaning

Purchasing one of these tools is the answer to your client’s request for non-chemical and eco-friendly sanitation methods. Your business can use this type of equipment to also disinfect almost any surface which will kill bacteria, allergens, or diseases. Another key benefit of using a steam cleaner is its ability to kill off any odors. Steam cleaners also do a fantastic job at loosening stains or dirt.

Your cleaning service business should use a steam cleaner to sanitize the following items:

• Flooring: carpet, sealed porcelain or ceramic tile, rugs
• Bathroom appliances such as shower doors and toilets
• Mattresses
• Cooking appliances: ovens, stove tops, grills, faucets
• Glass
• Furniture
• Pet cages and beds
• Garbage cans

Do not use a steam cleaner on the following items:

• Water based paint
• Thinly curtained upholstery
• Electrical items
• Bamboo

The main components of a steam cleaner are the water container and nozzle. The water is held and compressed once it is heated past the boiling point of 120 degrees. When the user is ready to do so, a simple switch of a button releases pressurized steam.

In order to provide your clients with an effective cleaning method, your team should utilize a vacuum and steam cleaner. One should use a steam cleaner to sanitize the surface first. Using the steam cleaner first will loosen up any particles. Ensure that all moisture is evaporated then vacuum the area to gather unwanted dirt or debris.

There are four distinct types of steam cleaners out on the market.

Let’s dive into finding out which one is best for your cleaning service business.

1. Handheld Steam Cleaners

Handheld steam cleaners are the perfect choice for removing stains from flooring or sanitizing hard-to-reach areas. Most handheld steam cleaners have compact attachments that are made for cleaning corners, shelves, and faucets. Its compact size makes it incredibly transportable. Furthermore, its heat-up time is one of the swiftest amongst the rest since its water tank holds far less water than the other models. Another great advantage is its affordability. Our favorite top-of-the-line handheld steam cleaner from Bissell comes at a reasonable price of $30.

On the contrary, your cleaning service business should not purchase this tool if your clients have large open spaces that need to be sanitized. This type of equipment should be used as a secondary cleaning tool for small areas due to its size and limited water tank.

2. Steam Mop

Steam mops are perfect for those businesses that clean and sanitize tile and coated floors. This tool resembles a broom with its long upright handle which gives the ability to swiftly clean medium to large areas. The water tank is often attached to the stick of the device and has a relatively swift heat up time. It is also important to note that thin and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and store. PurSteam has an incredibly effective and versatile steam mop at a generous price. Their model also comes equipped with a handheld steam cleaner.

Your business should not purchase a steam mop if your clients have large carpeted surfaces. If you decide to purchase one that does not come equipped with a handheld steam cleaner, reaching countertops and compact areas will be challenging.

3. Vapor Steam Cleaner

Vapor steam cleaners have versatile use amongst different types of flooring and surfaces.

Thanks to its range of attachments, your cleaning service business can also clean hard-to-reach areas and countertops. This type of equipment produces steam at an exceedingly high temperature. As a result, this allows for a sense of ‘dry’ cleaning since the evaporation process occurs rapidly which results in cleaning times. Keeping its adaptability in mind, vapor steam cleaners are perfect for tackling any type of stains due to their range of heat. The McCulloch heavy-duty steam cleaner comes equipped with a grand amount of attachments and an extensive power cord which makes their model perfect for any business.

The only downside to this type of steam cleaner is its portability. Its size may become a challenge to those who have to clean apartments or other smaller areas.

4. Canister Steam Cleaner

Canister steam cleaners or also known as cylinder steam cleaners resemble the physical characteristics of a vapor steam cleaner. In contrast to the vapor steam cleaner, this form of equipment produces steam at a lower temperature which means the surface or flooring cleaned will need time to dry. This type of steam cleaner has a range of attachments made for handling any type of challenge. From large to small areas, their large tank gives your team the ability to clean for an extensive period. McCulloch also has a canister steam cleaner that comes with a range of attachments and a generously sized water tank.

Some downsides to canister steam cleaners are their heavyweight and larger size which makes them difficult to transport. Furthermore, this factor will take up more storage space.