You might be amazed at the variety of items that can be cleaned using a steamer. While many people associate steamers primarily with floors, they're actually quite versatile, suitable for numerous surfaces and objects both indoors and outdoors.
Steam cleaning not only effectively tackles many surfaces but also requires minimal effort on your part. Just as it does for floors, maintaining good hygiene with steam cleaners and steam mops can be achieved without the need for additional cleaning products, making the process simple and hassle-free.
To enrich your cleaning knowledge, we've compiled a list of items that can be cleaned with a steamer, along with insights from experts about why it's an effective method.
20 Items You Can Clean with a Steamer
From the surfaces we walk on to the objects we frequently touch, a steamer can be utilized in various ways beyond just floors.
'There's virtually an endless list of surfaces that can be cleaned without chemicals using vapor steam,' explains Matthew Baratta, VP of operations at a cleaning equipment company.
1. Oven
Cleaning an oven often ranks high as one of the least enjoyable chores. However, using a steamer can make the task much less daunting. It simplifies the removal of burnt-on food without requiring harsh chemicals.
That said, Clare Ivatt from Kitchen TimeSavers cautions: 'Exercise caution when using a steam cleaner in an oven, especially at the back, as steam can escape unexpectedly.'
2. Stove Top
To clean your stove grates and the stove top itself, a steamer can be an excellent choice for effortlessly tackling spills and food remnants. Begin by removing the grates, then steam the surface with the nozzle attached. Remember to wipe down the stove top with a paper towel or microfiber cloth afterward.
3. Knobs and Handles
Kitchen knobs and handles are among the most frequently touched areas, making them hotspots for bacteria and viruses. Use the steamer to disinfect these surfaces, ensuring to dry them thoroughly with a microfiber cloth afterwards.
4. Windows
Windows accumulate dirt over time, dulling the light in your home. An effective way to clean your windows is to use a steamer. For best results, employ a squeegee attachment, or alternatively, steam them, squeegee, and then wipe. A microfiber cloth is ideal for the final wipe-down.
5. Toilet
Steamers are excellent tools for sanitizing toilets. 'Utilize the jet attachment around the toilet base, then lift the seat to reach all the nooks and crannies,' advises Alicia Franklin, owner of Cleaning Green.
6. Grout
Cleaning grout can often be a laborious task, typically requiring a scrubbing brush and significant elbow grease. Grout can easily become dirty from tracked-in dirt, kitchen spills, or mold in damp bathrooms.
While you may still need to scrub with a brush attachment, the steam will make the job significantly easier.
7. Countertops
Since countertops are frequently touched surfaces, using steam cleaning can effectively sanitize them. Start by clearing away any crumbs, then apply steam. Wipe dry afterward with a microfiber cloth.
8. Dishwasher
Over time, dishwashers can gather food debris from plates that weren't rinsed properly, which can clog the filter. Cleaning your dishwasher is essential for maintaining the appliance's efficiency and ensuring your dishes are squeaky clean. Steam cleaning can help dislodge particles that may cause issues later on.
'Use the nozzle attachment to steam away stuck-on food hidden in corners and drains,' recommends Alicia Franklin.
9. Mattresses
Given that we spend about a third of our lives in bed, shedding fluids and skin flakes, cleaning your mattress is a vital chore. A steam cleaner can be incredibly effective in this regard.
To extend the life of your mattress, first vacuum it, then apply steam, letting it dry completely afterward. Ensure your steamer heats the water to at least 212ºF (100ºC) for this task.
10. Outdoor Furniture
Don't forget to use your steam cleaner for outdoor chores, too! 'I love using steam cleaners for outdoor furniture,' says gardening expert Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Lawn Love. 'They're perfect for upholstered pieces, canvas tarps, and umbrellas, as well as any furniture made of plastic, vinyl, or wood.
'However, be cautious with wood, as excessive direct steam can lead to warping. I recommend covering wood furniture with a thin towel before using a steam cleaner.'
11. Grill
While cleaning outdoors, consider steam cleaning your grill as well. 'Removing grease typically requires chemicals and extensive scrubbing to eliminate remnants of yesterday's barbecue,' shares Roman Peysakhovich, CEO of Onedesk. 'A steam cleaner can simplify this process. Just use a small brush attachment to clean each wire thoroughly and effortlessly.'
12. Pet Cages and Beds
Steamers can also be used to clean the wire cages that house your pets. Just ensure the occupant is safe elsewhere while you clean, allowing you to avoid using chemicals that could harm them. A steamer is also great for refreshing dog crates.
13. Children's Toys
Steam cleaning is a fantastic way to sanitize plastic toys and bath toys for kids, and it's often quicker than washing them by hand or putting them in the dishwasher. Just be sure to verify that the toys are not sensitive to steam before proceeding.
14. Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans can be difficult to clean due to their height, but a steamer makes the job much simpler—plus it can save you from climbing a ladder.
'Most steam cleaners come with a long wand that you can use with an attachment,' says Roman Peysakhovich. 'To clean ceiling fans, simply attach a clean cloth to the brush and glide the wand across the blades.'
15. Drapes and Curtains
Avoid the hassle of removing drapes and curtains for cleaning by utilizing a steam cleaner while they remain in place.
'Using a steam cleaner is an excellent method for cleaning drapes and curtains,' states Angela Boswell, co-founder of a custom curtain company. 'It's like giving your curtains a hot bath while ironing them at the same time.'
16. Patio Door Tracks
Patio door tracks tend to gather dirt, which can impede the smooth operation of the doors. The solution? Steaming can loosen accumulated debris, allowing you to easily wipe it away with paper towels.
17. Refrigerator
Cleaning the refrigerator is a task many of us procrastinate, but a steamer can make it easier. After removing food, make sure to clear away crumbs and spills. Then, steam any areas that still require attention and wipe them down to finish the job.
18. Faucets
Limescale can build up on faucets over time, especially in areas with hard water. While cleaning products are available, steaming is a great alternative that eliminates worries about compatibility with the faucet's finish.
19. Upholstery
Steam cleaning is not just for outdoor furniture; it's also perfect for upholstery in your living areas. A steam cleaner can effectively lift dirt and odors from furniture.
Be sure to check the care instructions for your furniture first to confirm it's suitable for steam cleaning. It's advisable to spot clean a small area before proceeding with the entire piece.
20. Floors and Area Rugs
You might have initially purchased a steamer to alleviate the labor of mopping floors, but it can also effectively clean area rugs. Always conduct a patch test and consult the manufacturer's guidelines, while ensuring to vacuum any loose dirt prior to steaming.
What Should You Avoid Steam Cleaning?
Some surfaces should not be steam cleaned. 'It's essential to identify areas that may be damaged by heat,' notes Adriana Aziz, operations manager at a cleaning service that utilizes steam cleaning. 'Bamboo floors, sensitive carpets, and unsealed natural stone tiles should be avoided.'
As a general rule, refrain from steam cleaning unsealed, polished, freshly painted, or waxed surfaces. Roman Peysakhovich also advises against cleaning musical instruments or antiques with a steamer.
Can You Steam Clean Shower Glass?
Steam cleaning is an effective way to clear shower glass of buildup, especially in areas with hard water where limescale accumulates over time. You may need an attachment to tackle heavy deposits, and a squeegee is crucial for achieving a streak-free finish.
