Consumer Reports Steam Cleaner, Ratings, Reviews, Tips, and Guides 2023
Consumer Reports recently released their list of best steam cleaners and there is a lot to unpack here, but let’s start with the basics. In order to find out which steam cleaner you should buy, they researched 8 models with 4 features each. For example, 4 heated-up times and 4 covers for carpets. The top recommendation is the Rowenta DG8430 Pro Master 30-Foot Super Durable Microfiber Cleaning System so that’s what we’ll be discussing in this article!
Top 10 Steam Cleaner to Buy in 2023
Below is the list of top 10 Steam Cleaner that you can have a look at and buy. Check one by one carefully before purchasing.
*Note: Score is based on our AI score (Editor’s choice and rating)
What is Steam Cleaner?
A steam cleaner is a specialized piece of equipment that utilizes superheated steam to clean and sanitize a variety of surfaces. These powerful machines allow you to quickly and effectively remove dirt, grime, grease, stains, germs, and other contaminants from your home or business. With the right steam cleaner, you can keep your floors, counters, and other surfaces clean, sanitary, and looking great.
Whether you are looking to clean your carpets or surfaces in your kitchen or bathroom, there is a steam cleaner that can meet your needs. Some popular models include upright cleaners, handheld steam cleaners, and commercial-grade machines for larger cleaning jobs. To find the right steam cleaner for your needs, consider factors such as power, water capacity, size and weight, and cleaning accessories.
If you are looking for a powerful and effective way to keep your home or business clean and sanitary, a steam cleaner is an excellent choice. With the right model, you can easily tackle everyday messes and deep-set stains, eliminating germs and other contaminants to keep your surfaces looking great.
Benefits of Steam Cleaner?
There are many benefits to using a steam cleaner, including its powerful cleaning capabilities, ease of use, and versatility.
First, steam cleaners offer powerful cleaning capabilities that can help you quickly and effectively remove dirt and stains from a variety of surfaces. This makes them an excellent choice for most general cleaning tasks around the home or office.
Additionally, steam cleaners are easy to use and typically do not require much setup or specialized knowledge. As long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, you should be able to get your machine up and running in no time at all.
Finally, steam cleaners are versatile tools that can be used on a wide range of surfaces and fabrics. This makes them useful for both residential and commercial cleaning applications, and can help you save money by allowing you to complete your own cleaning tasks instead of hiring professional cleaners.
Overall, if you are looking for an effective and convenient way to keep your home or business clean and sanitary, a steam cleaner may be the perfect choice for you. With its many benefits, it is sure to become an essential tool in your cleaning arsenal.
Which Consumer Reports Preferred Steam Cleaner Should You Buy?
There are a few things to consider when purchasing a steam cleaner. Consumer Reports provides ratings for several different models of steam cleaners in their latest report. The report ranks the cleaners based on ease of use, features, and performance.
When considering which model to purchase, ease of use is an important factor. The report rates the cleaners on a scale from 1 to 5, with 5 being the easiest to use. The cleaners that received the highest rating for ease of use are the Shark Sonic Duo Carpet and Floor Cleaner and the Hoover Max Extract Dual V Widepath Carpet Cleaner.
Features is another important consideration. The report rates the cleaners on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the most feature-rich. The two top-rated models for features are the Hoover Max Extract Dual V Widepath Carpet Cleaner and the Bissell ProHeat 2X Lift-Off Pet Carpet Cleaner.
Finally, performance is an important consideration. The report rates the cleaners on a scale from 1 to 10, with 10 being the best performing. The two top-rated models for performance are the Shark Sonic Duo Carpet and Floor Cleaner and the Hoover Max Extract Dual V Widepath Carpet Cleaner.
So, which consumer reports preferred steam cleaner should you buy? If you’re looking for an easy-to-use model with plenty of features, then either the Shark Sonic Duo Carpet and Floor Cleaner or the Hoover Max Extract Dual
Types of Steam Cleaners
There are three main types of steam cleaners: handheld, canister, and stick.
Handheld steam cleaners are the most compact and portable option. They’re great for spot cleaning and quick touch-ups, but they don’t have the same power or capacity as other types of steam cleaners.
Canister steam cleaners are larger and more powerful than handhelds. They’re ideal for cleaning large areas like floors and upholstery. Some models come with attachments for specific tasks, like cleaning grout or getting into tight spaces.
Stick steam cleaners are similar to canister models, but they have a long, slender body that’s easy to maneuver. They’re a good choice for people who want a powerful cleaner but don’t need all the bells and whistles of a canister model.
How to Pick the Perfect Steam Cleaner
When you’re ready to buy a new steam cleaner, the Consumer Reports buying guide can help you pick the perfect model. But with so many models on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a steam cleaner:
-Choose the right type of steam cleaner for your needs. There are three main types of steam cleaners: handheld, canister, and stick. Consider what type of cleaning you’ll be doing most often, and choose accordingly.
-Pay attention to convenience features. Some steam cleaners come with attachments or accessories that can make cleaning easier or more effective. Others have features like cord wrap or no-spill tanks that can make them more convenient to use.
-Think about the size and weight of the unit. If you’ll be doing a lot of cleaning, you’ll want a lightweight model that’s easy to maneuver. If space is limited, look for a compact model that will be easy to store.
-Check the warranty and return policy before you buy. Make sure you understand the terms and conditions so that you can take advantage of them if something goes wrong with your purchase.
Types of Usage
There are three types of steam cleaners: handheld, canister, and upright. Handheld steam cleaners are small and lightweight, making them easy to use and maneuver. Canister steam cleaners have a large water tank and a long cord, making them ideal for cleaning large areas. Upright steam cleaners are the most powerful type of steam cleaner, making them ideal for heavy-duty cleaning jobs.
Pros and Cons of a Steam Cleaner
When it comes to choosing a steam cleaner, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. Below we will discuss some of the pros and cons of steam cleaners to help make your decision easier.
Pros:
-Steam cleaners are effective at removing dirt, grime, and bacteria from surfaces.
-They can be used on a variety of surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, tile, and more.
-Steam cleaners are typically easy to use and require little maintenance.
Cons:
-Steam cleaners can be expensive.
-They may not be as effective as some other cleaning methods, such as shampooing or professional cleaning.
The Final Verdict
After testing out the three most popular steam cleaners on the market, Consumer Reports has come to a final verdict. The Shark Professional Steam Pocket Mop was found to be the best overall, with excellent cleaning performance on both hard floors and carpets. The Bissell PowerFresh Lift-Off Pet was a close second, also doing well on both types of surfaces. The Hoover Dual Power Max Pet fell behind somewhat, but still did a decent job overall.
So, which one should you buy? If you’re looking for the best all-around performer, go with the Shark Professional Steam Pocket Mop. If you have pets and are looking for something that will do a good job of removing pet hair, go with the Bissell PowerFresh Lift-Off Pet. And if you’re on a budget and still want a reasonably good steam cleaner, go with the Hoover Dual Power Max Pet.
How to Use Steam Cleaner?
There are many different ways to use a steam cleaner, depending on the type of surface you are cleaning and the specific cleaning applications you need. Some general tips for using a steam cleaner include:
1. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before using your steam cleaner. This will help ensure that you are using the machine safely and effectively.
2. Test the steam cleaner on a small, inconspicuous area of the surface you are cleaning before using it more broadly. This will allow you to assess how well the machine works and ensure that there is no damage or discoloration to your surfaces from steam exposure.
3. Always use with caution around electronics or other sensitive items. Steam can cause damage to certain surfaces and materials, so it is important to be careful when using a steam cleaner around these items.
4. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, when using a steam cleaner. This will help protect your hands and eyes from potential exposure to hot steam, chemicals, or other cleaning solutions.
5. Always store your steam cleaner properly when not in use. Make sure to clean and dry the machine thoroughly after each use, and take care to keep it out of reach of children or pets to prevent accidents or damage.
Common Mistakes When Using Steam Cleaner?
One common mistake that many people make when using a steam cleaner is applying too much pressure or heat to their surfaces. This can damage delicate surfaces and fabrics, and may also cause your cleaning solution to splash or leak out of the machine.
Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that steam cleaners are not effective at removing deep-set stains or tough grime from most surfaces. If you need to tackle a particularly challenging mess, you may need to use additional tools or cleaning methods in conjunction with your steam cleaner.
To avoid these mistakes and get the best results when using your steam cleaner, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and follow any recommended safety precautions. You should also take the time to practice using your steam cleaner on a less-important surface, such as an inconspicuous corner of your carpet or upholstery, before tackling any particularly difficult cleaning tasks.
Finally, be sure to keep all pets and small children away from the area where you are working to help ensure their safety.
Maintenance and Care Tips for your Steam Cleaner
To keep your steam cleaner in top condition, it is important to regularly maintain and care for it. Here are some tips on how to do this:
– Empty the water tank after each use and rinse it out to remove any residue.
– Never use tap water in your steam cleaner as this can damage the machine. Always use distilled or demineralized water.
– descale your steam cleaner every few months to prevent build-up of minerals which can damage the machine. You can descale by adding a descaling solution to the water tank and running it through the machine.
– If you notice any leaks, immediately turn off the machine and contact a qualified repair person as continuing to use a leaking steam cleaner can be dangerous.
– Never leave your steam cleaner unattended while it is turned on.
FAQs
What types of floors can I clean with a steam cleaner?
Most steam cleaners are designed for use on all types of flooring, including hardwood, tile, laminate, and carpet. Some models may have specific attachments or settings for different floor types.
How much water do I need to use in my steam cleaner?
It depends on the model of steam cleaner you have. Some require a small amount of water to produce steam, while others have a larger tank that needs to be filled. Be sure to read the instructions carefully so you know how much water your particular model requires.
What kind of cleaning solutions can I use in my steam cleaner?
Again, it depends on the model of steam cleaner you have. Some models come with their own proprietary cleaning solutions, while others can use any type of cleaning solution that is safe for use on carpets or hard floors. Be sure to read the instructions carefully so you know what type of cleaning solution your particular model requires.
How does a steam cleaner work?
A steam cleaner uses high-temperature steam to clean and sanitize surfaces. The superheated steam loosens dirt, grease, grime, and other impurities from the surface, allowing them to be easily wiped or rinsed away. Some models also incorporate cleaning chemicals or other solutions into the steam cleaning process, helping to remove even more stubborn dirt and grime.
Are there different types of steam cleaners?
Yes, there are many different types of steam cleaners available, including upright models, handheld units, and commercial-grade machines. The type of cleaner you choose will depend on your specific cleaning needs, as well as on factors such as power, water capacity, size and weight, and available cleaning accessories.
How do I choose the right steam cleaner for my needs?
There are many things to consider when choosing a steam cleaner, including the type of surfaces you need to clean, how often you will be using the machine, and your budget. Some key factors to consider include the power of the steam cleaner, the water capacity and heat retention of the unit, its size and weight, and any available accessories or attachments that can help with specific cleaning tasks. Consider consulting reviews from other users to help you choose a model that meets all your needs.
How do I use a steam cleaner safely and effectively?
To use your steam cleaner safely and effectively, it is important to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and to always follow any recommended safety precautions. You should also test the steam cleaner on a small area of the surface you are cleaning before using it more broadly, and be careful when using around sensitive items or materials. Additionally, it is important to store your steam cleaner properly when not in use and to clean it thoroughly after each use.
With these precautions, you can safely and effectively use your steam cleaner for a range of cleaning tasks.
Are there any tips for maintaining and cleaning a steam cleaner?
Yes, there are several tips that can help you maintain and clean your steam cleaner effectively. These include regularly cleaning the machine to remove dirt and grime buildup, ensuring that it is dry and stored properly when not in use, taking care to avoid exposing the unit to harsh chemical cleaners or other damaging substances, and refilling the water tank as needed.
Additionally, you may want to consider regular maintenance services performed by a professional steam cleaner technician, which can help ensure that your machine continues to work efficiently over time.
Where can I find additional resources and information about steam cleaning and steam cleaners?
There are many online resources that provide helpful tips and information on using, maintaining, and choosing a steam cleaner. You can also consult with your local hardware or home improvement store for advice on choosing the right model for your needs, as well as with a professional technician to help you maintain your machine over time. Other useful resources may include online user forums, blogs, and product reviews from other users.
Conclusion
Thanks for reading our article on the best steam cleaners according to Consumer Reports. We hope that this has helped you make a decision on which one to buy. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments below and we’ll do our best to answer them.
I’m Georgie Barton, a reviewer for various magazines and consumer reports. I’ve been testing and writing about household products and electronics for years, and have become quite the authority on the subject. My goal is to help people make informed decisions when purchasing these items, so they can get the most value for their money.
My hope is that through my work, everyone will be able to find a quality and satisfactory product. Thank you for reading!