The best steam cleaners for the home: 2021 ranking

• Design features
• Models and differences
• Operating principle
• Types of nozzles
• Benefits of steam cleaning
• Sofa cleaning technology

Getting rid of dust mites and dirt on your favorite upholstered furniture is easy. There is no need to call a cleaning service with professional equipment; it is enough to purchase a special device and clean the interior items yourself. In this article, employees will tell you how to clean a sofa with a steam cleaner at home, how the device works, and what its benefits are.

Advantages and disadvantages of steam cleaners

If a person is unsure whether he needs a steam cleaner, it is highly recommended that he familiarize himself with the advantages and disadvantages of the household appliance.

Pros of steam cleaners:

• A large range of steam cleaners allows you to choose the most suitable model in each specific case.
• It is simple, easy to use and most importantly safe.
• A steam cleaner can effectively clean tile floors, shower stalls, toilets and sinks, range hoods and much more.
• Effectively and gently cleans suede shoes.
• Cope with fungi and their spores, mold, scale, hardened dirt and grease.
• Neutralizes odors in the room.
• Allows you to refuse to use household chemicals, which saves the family budget and eliminates the possibility of developing an allergic reaction.
• The duration of cleaning is reduced several times.

Cons of steam cleaners:

• It is not recommended to use a steam cleaner to clean laminate and parquet floors. It is also recommended to avoid silicone joints.
• The kit includes attachments with a short service life, so it is advisable to immediately purchase a whole set of additional attachments.
• Removing carbon deposits and scale will require a lot of effort.
• Does not remove debris from carpets, investigator, you will still have to additionally vacuum the surfaces.

Advantages of the method

Air conditioning is widely used in both residential premises and offices. It will save you from the heat in the summer for almost six months and heats the room with the onset of the first cold weather before the start of the heating season. During such a period, operation involves regular cleaning of equipment from blockages. The equipment has complex technology and if there is no maintenance, the equipment may fail.

During operation, dust gets into the air conditioner, which leads to a decrease in its performance. Even in expensive models of split systems from world brands, an unpleasant odor may appear during operation due to contamination of the mechanism. A steam cleaner can solve this problem; in addition, such a device will allow you to carefully and effectively remove dirt from other surfaces in the room.

Equipment with a steam generation mechanism, due to the effect of high temperature under high pressure, also carries out disinfection.

Cleaning the air conditioning system can also be done with chemicals, but not all working units are available for this. In addition, water getting into the mechanism can lead to damage to the device. The lingering smell of detergents lingers in the air for a long time, which can cause discomfort or an allergic reaction. After such cleaning of the air conditioner, it will continue to generate the smell of used chemicals for a long time during the supply of cold, and especially hot air.

How to choose a steam cleaner for your home?

The question of choosing a steam cleaner for the home is open to many. A large selection of household appliances with different configurations, functionality and prices causes some difficulties in choosing. Before purchasing a steam cleaner, you need to analyze what tasks it will face.

What criteria to pay attention to when choosing a steam cleaner:

• Power and performance . The power determines how quickly and efficiently the device will cope with the tasks assigned to it. For home use, steam cleaners with a power of 1,000 W or more are sufficient. If the power is lower, then the steam cleaner will not be able to remove all contaminants properly.
• Tank volume . This parameter determines how long the steam cleaner can be operated continuously. The small reservoir heats up on average in 20-25 seconds, but it needs to be refilled with water regularly.
• The volumetric container warms up for up to 20 minutes, but you can use the steam cleaner continuously for up to half an hour.
• Steam pressure . The quality of surface treatment depends on this criterion. The steam pressure of steam cleaners can vary from 1.5 to 4 bar. For high-quality cleaning of surfaces, the most suitable value is 3 bar.
• The length of the hose for different models varies from 1.5 to 3 meters . The ease of use of the device will depend on this parameter.
• Cord length and device weight . The first criterion determines the number of hard-to-reach places and the possibility of continuous cleaning. Weight matters for hand-held instruments. When choosing a suitable model, you need to pay attention to the weight + add the volume of water. Based on the obtained value, determine whether it will be convenient to use the device.
• Equipment . The steam cleaner comes with additional attachments for cleaning textiles, tiles, windows and other surfaces. The more expensive the steam cleaner, the more attachments it usually comes with.
• Heating type . There are several varieties depending on the method of heating water in the tank - direct-flow heating of water and the formation of steam in the boiler. The latter is more popular because such models are more powerful and efficient.
• Equipped with a safety valve . This small detail eliminates the possibility of opening the hot water container during use.

These are the main parameters that it is recommended to pay attention to when choosing a steam cleaner. To make your search easier, we have presented a ranking of the best steam cleaners in 2021.

How to wash: step-by-step instructions

The unit is very easy to operate, does not require any special skills , and is safe if the rules of use are followed. Cleaning a window panel with it, if prepared in advance, is a real pleasure.

So how does steam washing work?

Preparation

Preparation takes up to half an hour, the main time is waiting for the water to heat up:

1. 
   Assemble the device as indicated in the instructions, fill the tank, tighten the cap, plug into the outlet and press ON. (heat).

2. While the unit is heating up (up to 30 minutes), clear access - remove the carpet, indoor flowers, curtains.
3. Prepare a well-absorbing rag or napkin, a rubber scraper or something convenient for final wiping (cloth, paper), and a basin where you can wring out the rag.

Process

When the equipment gives a signal that the device is heated, you can start washing:

1. Bring the nozzle to the surface at a distance of 20-30 cm, press steam. You can release the first portions of steam outside or into a basin; as a rule, they flow down in a trickle.
2. Treat the surface with steam (spread several times over the entire area), immediately remove excess moisture with a scraper or cloth.
3. Repeat the same with the frame and slopes.

If there is too much dirty waste flowing off, you can keep the nozzle away from the surface, so the steam consumption will be less.

In this case, there is no need to first apply glass cleaning liquid, rub, or hold the nozzle for a long time at especially dirty places - under the influence of hot steam, all dirt comes off quickly.

You can simply direct a stream of steam into the corners of the frames, bringing the nozzle very close - the pressure will knock out all the dirt.

Completion

At the very end you must:

1. When everything is washed clean, you need to unplug the device and leave it to cool.
2. Use a dry cloth to remove any remaining moisture from the floor and window sill.
3. When the unit has cooled down, drain the residue from the tank, disconnect the brush or nozzle, and dry it.

Watch the video on how to clean a window with a steam generator:

TOP 19: The best steam cleaners of 2021

The best inexpensive steam cleaners (up to 4,000 rubles)

Best Handheld Steam Cleaners of 2021

Best Floor Steam Cleaners of 2021

The best universal steam cleaners (2 in 1)

Steam mops

Another device with a steam generator, designed for wet cleaning and processing of floor coverings. Allows you to effectively remove dirt, dust particles, viruses, bacteria without the use of special chemicals and abrasives.

Xiaomi DEM-ZQ600

We can say that this is a handheld steam cleaner with a special nozzle for cleaning floors, turning the device into a steam mop. A modern household device from a popular brand is ergonomic, compact, lightweight and simplifies the process of general cleaning.

Characteristics:

• transformable “2 in 1” design;
• tank volume – 0.2 l;
• power – 1600 W,
• steam pressure – 3 bar;
• operating time without refueling – 4 minutes;
• aroma tablet included;
• power cord – 4 m.

Among the disadvantages, users note the lack of a shoulder strap for ease of movement; the strictly vertical position of the device makes it difficult to process vertical surfaces.

“My wife is happy, I bought it as a gift. Sometimes water leaks at the beginning of work, but then everything is fine. The downside is that you need to add water often, but otherwise it’s a great thing.”

Kitfort KT-1003

Steam mop with an extended handle and replaceable attachments for cleaning floors, carpets and washing windows.

Peculiarities:

• power – 1500 W;
• water tank volume – 0.45 l, for m/s – 0.15 l;
• cord length – 5 m;
• weight – 3.1 kg.

Buyers noted the effectiveness of working with various contaminants; among the disadvantages is the rapid wear of replaceable rags and brushes.

“Excellent steam generator, convenient vertical parking, heats up quickly, and you can use detergent. I didn’t have enough cord, so I have to carry an extension cord.”

The best inexpensive steam cleaners (up to 4,000 rubles)

Steam cleaners are a very useful thing in everyday life, because with the help of such a device you can easily clean almost all accessible surfaces in the house, from bathroom tiles to sofas and windows. However, many people often doubt the need for such a purchase. You can understand whether your apartment really needs a steam cleaner if you purchase an inexpensive and small model that won’t put a big dent in your wallet and won’t take up too much space. We present to your attention the TOP 5 most budget-friendly steam cleaners.

Best Handheld Steam Cleaners of 2021

Manual steam cleaners can rightfully be considered the best option for home use. As a rule, such devices are quite compact, so they are easy to locate even in the most cramped conditions. We invite you to take a look at the five best steam cleaners of this type.

Bissell 2635J

A good and reliable handheld steam cleaner.

Bissell 2635J

Let's start the rating of the best manual steam cleaners with a very good model from the private American company Bissell - 2635J (5,700 rubles). It is worth paying special attention to the high performance of this device - the power is 1100 watts, and the steam pressure reaches as much as 4.5 bar. At the same time, the steam cleaner heats up extremely quickly, in just a minute. As usual, the kit includes several attachments for various purposes. But what distinguishes this model from others is the different color codes of the nozzles - some of them are more suitable for the kitchen, and some for the bathroom. In addition, there is a special hose and nozzle for cleaning hard-to-reach places.

Main characteristics

• Water tank volume: 0.36 l
• Power: 1100 W
• Maximum steam pressure: 4.5 bar
• Water heating time: 60 s
• Weight: 2.3 kg

Video review

Advantages:

• High performance indicators, which ensures high-quality and effective cleaning of surfaces.
• Lots of replaceable attachments.
• Fast heating of water in the tank.
• Compact and lightweight.
• High-quality materials, reliable assembly.

Flaws:

• Small volume of water tank.
• Leaks periodically.
• Long waiting time until the next time the water tank is filled.

MIE Forever Clean

A modern and versatile handheld steam cleaner.

MIE Forever Clean

Next comes the most versatile device made by the Italian company Mie. In fact, this steam cleaner also stands out with its impressive power of 1200 watts and 4 bar. The technical characteristics and equipment of the model also impress. For example, it is possible to use detergent. In addition, there are two interesting indicators - one shows the readiness of steam, and the other signals the end of water in the tank. Otherwise, everything is quite familiar. The set includes three replaceable attachments for spot treatment of surfaces, a brush and a scraper.

Main characteristics

• Water tank volume: 0.48 l
• Power: 1200 W
• Maximum steam pressure: 4 bar
• Case material: plastic
• Using detergent
• Power cord winding: manual
• Maximum steam output: 50 g/min

Video review

Advantages:

• Steam power and pressure.
• There is a container for detergent.
• Various attachments.
• Indicators of the end of water and steam readiness.
• High quality materials and workmanship.

Flaws:

• Small volume of water tank.
• It is heavy and will be difficult to work for a long time.
• Short power cord.

Kitfort KT-903

Reliable German steam cleaner. Maximum pressure 4 bar, power 2000 W. The kit includes various accessories and attachments. The steamer will cope with any contaminants on the vast majority of surfaces: upholstered furniture (fabric/leather upholstery), carpeting, tiles, glass, clothing, etc. The device can operate autonomously (without interruption) for 1 hour.

• stylish design;
• a lot of attachments and other accessories;
• spacious tank;
• quick start.

• weight.

Kitfort KT-903

Best Floor Steam Cleaners of 2021

Floor-standing steam cleaners are somewhat reminiscent of vacuum cleaners - the same elongated body shape and long hose. They are generally slightly more powerful than manual models and can also last longer due to their larger water reservoir. Below are the top five best floor standing units from the biggest home appliance brands.

MIE Juno

A good and reliable floor steam cleaner.

MIE Juno

First of all, you should consider a steam cleaner from the Italian manufacturer Mie. A good and reliable floor-standing steam cleaner MIE Juno (RUB 12,600) has power ratings that are fairly standard for floor-standing devices - 1500 watts. The volume of the tank is slightly larger than a liter - this means that the steam cleaner will take a long time to heat up, but nevertheless it will work for quite a long time, in this case - half an hour. In addition to a variety of attachments, there is also a long (1.5 m) steam hose that allows you to effectively clean the floor surface, steam curtains and much more. A significant drawback is that it can drip heavily at the beginning, as well as as work progresses.

Main characteristics

• Water tank volume: 1.1 l
• Power: 1500 W
• Maximum steam pressure: 5 bar
• Working time: 30 min
• Water heating time: 300 s
• Steam hose length: 1.5 m
• Power cord length: 2.8 m

Video review

Advantages:

• High efficiency - power of 1500 watts and steam pressure of 5 bar.
• There are many attachments included, suitable for almost any purpose, including steaming curtains.
• Continuous operation for 30 minutes.
• There is an extension tube.
• There is a shoulder strap.

Flaws:

• It leaks and drips.
• Low quality plastic.
• Short power cord.

Grand Master GM-Q7 Multi Elite

Multifunctional steam cleaner. Great power allows you to remove any even old dirt from upholstered furniture. Tank 230 ml, steam pressure 3.5 bar, power 1.95 kW. The device can also be used to clean limescale in the bathroom, greasy stains in the kitchen, windows, clothes, etc.

• quick start and heating of water;
• many attachments, including a special iron;
• horizontal steaming and leveling (smoothing) of fabric upholstery.

• high price;
• small container for water.

Grand Master GM-Q7 Multi Elite

The best universal steam cleaners (2in1)

Such steam cleaners are considered universal devices, as they are suitable for washing the floor and for cleaning various surfaces in the house. Especially for you, we reviewed many worthy devices and compiled the TOP 4 best models in this category.

BLACK+DECKER FSMH1351SM-QS

High-quality and convenient 2in1 steam cleaner.

BLACK+DECKER FSMH1351SM-QS

The rating opens with an American-made universal steam cleaner - BLACK+DECKER FSMH1351SM-QS (RUB 13,600). The floor nozzle is suitable for surfaces such as laminate, linoleum, tiles and wood. The power of 1500 Watts allows the device to effectively eliminate dirt and bacteria. The volume of the water tank is 0.5 liters, which, based on the manufacturer’s assurances, should be enough for 20 minutes of use. In addition, the potential user will not have to wait tediously for the water to heat up - the steam cleaner is ready for use within 15 seconds after being turned on. Finally, built-in anti-scale protection significantly extends the life of the device.

Main characteristics

• Water tank volume: 0.5 l
• Power: 1300 W
• Working time: 20 min
• Water heating time: 15 s
• Scraper attachment
• Floor nozzle
• Anti-scale protection
• Power cord length: 6 m

Video review

Advantages:

• High power, effective cleaning.
• Heating of water and complete readiness of the device for operation in 15 seconds.
• 20 minutes of continuous use.
• There is built-in anti-scale protection.
• Convenient digital control; you can adjust the amount of steam released depending on your cleaning purposes.

Flaws:

• May leave streaks on soiled surfaces.
• There is no compartment for storing the power cord.
• There are no instructions in Russian.