Things are getting steamy with these cleaning tools, tips – KTAR.com

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If you are seeking a cleaning system that is all-natural and eco-friendly, consider steam cleaning.

Steam cleaners do not leave an odor just a fresh clean smell that is germ and chemical-free. They are useful for deep cleaning and sanitizing with little effort involved.

What is steam and how does it work for cleaning?

When water is heated, it evaporates. It turns into water vapor and expands. At 100 degrees, it boils and evaporates rapidly. At boiling point, the invisible gas of steam is created.

The steams molecules penetrate a surfaces pores to force out dirt, grease, grime, and other stain-causing substances. When done correctly, steam cleaning can quickly kill 99.99% of germs and bacteria without the use of chemical-based disinfectants.

Items, surfaces you can safely and effectively steam clean:

ceramic or porcelain tile and groutglass shower doors and trackspatio door tracksmetal pet cages and bowlsstovetops and grillspatio furniturecountertops, sinks, and plumbing fixturesmattresses and beddingdrapesceiling fansgarden toolsprecious gemstones

Depending on the type of steamer you use, you may need special attachments for specific tasks.

Do not steam cleanThe results of steam cleaning these surfaces will leave you steamed.

unsealed, polished, waxed, or freshly painted surfacesfinished wood unless it has a polyurethane-base and can withstand heat and brief moisture.antiques most have varnish or shellac finishes that will dull the luster or sheen and the finish could blisternylon mesh window screenslaminate flooring the fiberboard core can be ruined by moisture that seeps through the seams between planksmusical instruments with a unique wooden finish

Buying a steam cleaner

There are several types of steam cleaners for home use. When selecting a cleaner, buy only certified electrical appliances that carry approval ratings from an official certification agency, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Handheld steam cleanersSmall, light, portable, and low-priced (starting at under $80), handheld steam cleaners are easy to use and store.

ProsExtremely useful for cleaning stovetop nobs, crevices between the stove and countertop, seams along the countertopremoving small stains from carpets

ConsNot designed for cleaning floors or for large surfaceshas a small tank that offers limited operating time

Steam mopsDesigned for daily floor cleaning, steam mops are light and easy to handle. Similar to a broom, but with greater hygiene.

Prosmodels available as low as $35ready to use in a few secondslight and easy to useperfect for cleaning and sanitizing floorstakes up very little space

Consdifficult to clean corners or other hard to reach areasmay not remove stubborn dirtmay require a specific accessory to clean carpetsthe small tank may require frequent refills

Cylinder steam cleaners

Similar to a vacuum cleaner, their size is determined by the boiler that generates high-pressure steam.Some models may be lighter and more compact can be strapped on during cleaning.

Prosversatile good for cleaning and sanitizing the entire home in one cleaning projectlarge tank so you dont have to stop cleaning to watermany accessories availableeffectively removes stubborn dirt, stains, and markswide price range to fit any budget: from $99 to $659

Conscan be more difficult to handle than steam mops or handheld steam cleaners

Steam and vacuuming integrated systems

Ideal for maximum cleanliness in minimum time, this design combines the effectiveness of cylinder steam cleaners with a vacuum function creating a single device able to vacuum, clean, and sanitize every washable surface in the house, without using chemical detergents.

Prosno need for a separate traditional vacuum cleanerversatile and capable of cleaning and sanitizing the entire homecombined steam and suction actionheats up quicklylarge tankmany accessories availableeffectively removes stubborn dirt, stains, and marks

Consprices start around $250needs more room to store

A note about tank size: The more water the tanks holds, the longer you can clean before stopping to refill and reheat. Machines with a continuous fill come with a backup tank to keep you cleaning longer.When selecting a steam cleaner, look for good customer service, a strong warranty, and long product life.

Cleaning tipsUse distilled water to prevent mineral buildup in the cleaner and on surfaces.Do not use a garment steamer on delicate fabrics, on colors that could run, or on items that cannot take heat and steam.When using tools with cloth pockets or covers, clean the items that are the least dirty first.Change the cloth covers on steaming tools when they become soiled. Otherwise, you will be smearing dirt over a surface rather than actually cleaning it.Dont store damp cloths. They will grow or mold.Have all the attachments close at hand.Sweep and vacuum before steam cleaning.Clean top to bottom on door frames and thresholds.Keep attachments stored with the steamer bottle for quick retrieval.Do not linger on sealed wood, painted surfaces, or any area that has a paper, wood, plywood, or cardboard composite construction. On areas you are not sure about, test a small area first.

Caution: Remember, you are using boiling water.Read the cleaners manual first and use it for what it is designed to do.Wear closed-toe shoes.Use a portable steamer only on surfaces and materials that are sealed and can take high heat and moisture.Be aware of temperature variations that could cause glass or porcelain to break. For example, do not steam-clean a glass windowpane on a very cold day.Ensure that accessory tools are properly and securely attached.Steam continues to exhaust for several seconds after the trigger is released. Do not direct at plants or other items that cannot take moisture or heat.Unplug before refilling with water and before changing attachments.Use care when putting down a hot tool.

For more do-it-yourself tips, go to rosieonthehouse.com. An Arizona home building and remodeling industry expert for 35 years, Rosie Romero is the host of the Rosie on the House radio program from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturdays on KTAR-FM (92.3) in Phoenix, 9 to 11 a.m. on KAFF-AM (930) in Flagstaff, and 10 to 11 a.m. on KNST-AM (790) in Tucson.

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Things are getting steamy with these cleaning tools, tips - KTAR.com