How to use a steam cleaner: 10 tips for thorough cleaning

12/07/2015 Category: Cleanliness Author: Natalya Ivantsova

Stretch ceilings are extremely popular today. They are distinguished by practicality, durability and high decorative properties. Another advantage is ease of maintenance. The canvases have a special coating, the task of which is to repel dirt. The surface of the ceiling itself, which is perfectly flat, also prevents the accumulation of dust. However, these structures still need cleaning. Therefore, it is advisable for housewives to take note of a few simple tips on how to wash suspended ceilings at home, preserving their color and integrity.

• Selecting a detergent

  For matte surface

• Gloss detergents
• For fabric stretch ceiling

How the steam cleaner works and its advantages

A steam cleaner is a device that converts water into steam and uses pressure to clean various surfaces. The principle of operation of the device is simple. First, the system heats the water and converts it into steam. Afterwards, a stream of hot moist air helps to destroy dirt and fat accumulation at the cellular level. At the same time, the duration of the entire surface cleaning cycle, be it carpet or tile, does not exceed half an hour. Manufacturers claim that this method of cleaning premises is the safest. The fact is that the steam density is low, and therefore it is almost impossible to get burned by it.

Depending on the size and power, there are three main modifications of the device on the market: a manual steam cleaner, a compact one (like a household vacuum cleaner) and a steam vacuum cleaner (a bulky device used by cleaning companies or enterprises). The question of how to use the device is practically not worth it, since they all have the same principle of operation and a similar design.

The key elements of a steam cleaner are:

• motor and heating element;
• water container;
• hose (in large models it is a telescopic handle, and in manual devices it is an adapter nozzle);
• steam supply system;
• safety valve;
• various nozzles.

Depending on the configuration and cost of the steam cleaner, the set of brushes may differ. The most popular are:

Also, some models of steam cleaners are equipped with an “Iron” attachment, which converts the device into a steamer. Used for curtains, curtains, working with fabrics and outerwear.

Some of the benefits of using a steam cleaner include:

• minimizing costs for household chemicals and consumables in the form of rags, brushes and protective gloves;
• can be used indoors where there are allergy sufferers or small children;
• thanks to the presence of 3-4 nozzles in the set, the device can be used for cleaning hard-to-reach places;
• Steam treatment effectively removes old stains and dirt;
• the device allows you to disinfect a room or specific objects, as well as get rid of fungal infections, pathogenic bacteria, mold, and other parasitic microorganisms, insect larvae or dust mites;
• effective removal of odors from tobacco, plumbing and can be used as a room aerator if you add a couple of drops of essential oil to a water tank;
• has a simple design, and therefore minor damage or deformation of the tubes is excluded;
• compact dimensions and the ability to be stored disassembled.

Selecting a detergent

Cleaning a suspended ceiling is not that difficult, but it is worth knowing some tricks to avoid the appearance of unpleasant stains on the canvas. It is also worth considering the type of finish as cleaning methods may vary. So, for glossy, matte and fabric fabrics you need to use different detergents.

For matte surface

The matte ceiling can be cleaned with steam, rags and a special cleaner.

Today there are compositions on sale that are designed specifically for cleaning suspended ceilings. This can be a spray or aerosol designed to clean a matte surface, such as Light Plast. With its help, you can quickly and effectively remove all dirt without leaving streaks. You can also use a steam cleaner as it will not leave any residue on the surface.

But at home, these remedies can be replaced:

• glass cleaning liquid;
• laundry soap;
• ammonia solution;
• washing powder.

Ammonia will help not only remove dirt from the ceiling, but also restore its original appearance if the surface has already become dull.

Features of ceiling cleaning come down to the following aspects:

1. Powder and soap are diluted in warm water until the detergent components are completely dissolved.
2. You cannot use compounds containing acetone, as they can damage the matte material.
3. White spirit will help get rid of heavily contaminated areas.

Gloss detergents

Edel Weiss – reliable help in cleaning the ceiling

To clean glossy ceilings, polishes and aerosols are produced. They are specially manufactured to work with this material and do not leave streaks, which makes the cleaning process easier. Among them are the brands “Edelweiss” and Nouvel. The containers with these solutions are equipped with sprinklers, which makes the washing procedure more convenient.

If these funds are not available, you can use:

• detergents for windows or dishes;
• a solution of washing powder or laundry soap;
• means "Mr. Muscle" or FAIRY;
• a solution of ammonia in water at a temperature of 30°C-40°C

The last option can be replaced with vodka.

For fabric stretch ceiling

Cleaning the fabric surface requires delicate handling

Special cleaning products, such as Premier, are also produced to care for fabric ceilings. This solution does not contain alkaline or acidic substances, which makes it safe not only for the canvas, but also for the skin of the hands.

But in every home you can find an alternative to professional compositions. This:

• laundry soap;
• washing powder.

To prepare a solution from these components, only warm water is used. You should choose a powder designed for colored fabrics. Do not clean fabric ceilings using compositions for mirrors and glass. They contain substances that react with dyes. This may ruin the color of the structure.

It is not recommended to wash fabric stretch ceilings with products that contain granules, abrasive particles or acetone.

For such a surface, you can use a steam cleaner. This is a device that acts on the surface with a jet of hot steam, removing all contaminants. But before using the device, you need to make sure that the canvas is tightly fastened. Otherwise, you risk breaking the geometry of the tension structure.

Preparing for work

Before you start cleaning, you should study the instructions for the device to understand how to use the steam cleaner correctly. Most models have a similar design.

To begin cleaning a surface or room, you need to assemble the device, fill the reservoir with filtered water (this will minimize the risk of plaque forming on the heating element) and leave it to heat up. You should also clean the cleaning surface from large debris and unnecessary objects.

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Conclusion 3: A furniture steam cleaner does not solve all problems.

One of the common myths is that we will buy a manual steam cleaner for our home and clean the sofa and carpet at home ourselves. Nothing will work out. You either need a powerful steam vacuum cleaner, or you can simply steam (disinfect) a mattress, sofa, chairs, carpets, soft toys, curtains, dried flowers. This is also a very cool feature for families with children.

Floor cleaning

To clean the floor, it is better to use compact models of steam cleaners with a long cord. Depending on the type of floor covering, select the appropriate nozzle. Experts recommend that before using a steam cleaner, vacuuming to get rid of large pieces of debris/fur.

After carrying out the preparatory measures, it is necessary to install the nozzle on the hose. If you plan to clean laminate/parquet/linoleum, attach a cloth and start supplying steam by pressing the corresponding button. It is better to remove stains with short, quick movements.

How to clean a carpet with a steam cleaner

To clean carpets effectively, you should follow a number of simple rules. You need to prepare the surface and leave the device to heat up. If you use a cleaning agent during cleaning (in case of heavy soiling), strictly follow the dosage, otherwise stains may remain on the surface after the carpet dries.

It is better to start cleaning from the far wall towards the door. This will avoid moving on an already clean surface. If cleaning was carried out with the addition of a cleaning agent, you should then go through it again with clean water, otherwise dust particles will stick too much to the coating in the future. To dry the carpet faster, you can use an air conditioner/fan or open the windows.

You should also take into account the rules for cleaning carpet with a steam cleaner, compiled by specialists from cleaning companies:

• It is better to avoid using cleaning products containing chlorine or other aggressive components. This can lead to a change in the color of the pile or the carpet as a whole;
• for quick cleaning, it is better to use a wide, stiff brush;
• To prevent the surface from getting too wet, it is better to use the steam regulator. If it is missing, supply steam in doses.

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Advantages

The advantages of a steam cleaner are noticeable to the naked eye:

1. It can be used on almost any surface. Under the influence of steam, scale and other complex contaminants are effectively removed, saving time and effort.
2. You can quickly wash the floor with it, in particular laminate (it is not suitable for parquet).
3. Works great on old dirt and grease in the kitchen.
4. You can say goodbye to a lot of household chemicals forever.
5. Very convenient for cleaning windows.
6. Kills unpleasant odors.
7. Possibility of steaming things, including suede.
8. Lightweight and easy to use.
9. The device operates almost silently.

Washing the bathroom and plumbing

Cleaning a bathroom involves a lot of small tasks that require a lot of time. This includes fighting limescale on plumbing, cleaning tiles, and, of course, washing tile joints and fighting mold in the wettest areas. To cope with all this, we use heavy artillery in the form of aggressive chemicals, hard brushes and much more.

First, use a soft cloth to clean the surfaces (tiles, mirrors, shower stall and all shelves) from soap residues and plaque. The same steps should be done with the bathtub and sink.

Then, placing a narrow brush on the hose at an angle of 45 degrees, turn on the steam cleaner and begin treating the contaminated surface. To combat limescale, it is better to use a spot jet nozzle.

To get rid of large-scale stains, you must first moisten the areas with a vinegar solution (water and table vinegar in a ratio of 1:1) and leave for 5-10 minutes. After the specified time has passed, the surface should be wiped with a cloth and steam treatment repeated.

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Flaws

In addition to its advantages, a steam cleaner has several disadvantages:

1. They are not recommended to treat wood flooring, in particular laminate flooring, which has waxed joints. It is also necessary to avoid processing silicone joints, as they can deteriorate.
2. Still, some contaminants, such as scale, need to be treated for a long time.
3. If there is a very strong coating, you will need a vinegar solution, which is first applied to the surface.
4. For the first time, cleaning with a steam cleaner can take a long time due to the lack of experience in working with it.
5. They will not be able to remove debris from carpets, but only refresh them.
6. When cleaning laminate flooring, you will still have to use a cloth, since steam simply softens the dirt, but does not remove it.

Be that as it may, there are many more positive aspects and therefore using the device is still convenient and effective. Now you know why you need a steam cleaner in your home.

A striking example of the operation of a steam cleaner from one of the top manufacturers is shown in the video.

Furniture cleaning: how to clean a sofa with a steam cleaner

In order for cleaning to be effective, you should strictly follow the rules on how to clean a sofa with a steam cleaner. Furniture items should be thoroughly vacuumed and, if necessary, stains should be “washed out” with soap solution, stain remover or other product. After carrying out the preparatory measures, you must wait until the upholstery dries.

Then you can start using the steam generator:

1. Turn on the device and leave it to warm up, after placing a triangular brush on the hose.
2. Each piece of furniture should be removed and cleaned individually.
3. It is better to process sofa sections sequentially.
4. After cleaning, you need to let the furniture dry.

You can also use the “steamer” mode to combat stains.

For cleaning upholstered furniture

While a regular vacuum cleaner can handle dust, it can’t do anything about stains or greasy upholstery. A steam cleaner is the opposite. Therefore, to care for furniture, ideally you need both devices.

First, thoroughly vacuum the sofa or chair, then treat it with steam. By the way, this is how you can get rid of dust mites in the near-surface layer of the seal (and there are most of them there).

To work with furniture, you can take a manual cleaner like Bort BDR-2800-RR. The main thing is to have an appropriate nozzle.

Kitchen cleaning

A steam cleaner is also suitable for cleaning the kitchen. Moreover, in half an hour you can treat furniture and household appliances, as well as get rid of grease deposits on tiles and stoves.

Depending on the selected surface, different nozzles should be used. For example, a microfiber cloth is suitable for a hood, work panels and cabinets, but for working with a sink and tiles it is better to use a hard-bristled brush. The procedure for operating the device is the same: turn on, heat up and use short bursts of steam to get rid of grease and dirt.

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How to clean an oven with a steam cleaner

Cleaning the oven will now take no more than half an hour. The main thing is to strictly follow the recommendations of specialists. First, you need to pour water into the tank and wait until steam begins to form in the device. Then you need to select a nozzle. In this case, it is better to use brushes of different sizes. After exposure to steam on the fat, the plaque will begin to soften and must be removed with a napkin. In particularly dirty areas, use an intense burst of steam and scrub the surface with a brush.

What kind of home helpers will you need?

To wash a stretch ceiling, you only need soft sponges, without hard bristles.

To work you will need:

• regular sponge;
• silk fabric (for a matte ceiling);
• microfiber or suede cloths;
• ladder;
• vacuum cleaner and soft bristle attachment.

To clean any type of ceiling, it is highly undesirable to use hard cloths and brushes.

What not to clean with a steam cleaner

The question of what should not be cleaned with a steam cleaner is relevant. However, the answer is simple: it is not recommended to treat surfaces that may deteriorate or become deformed when exposed to high temperatures. Also, you should not use the device to work with products made from natural fabrics (linen, wool, etc.), surfaces coated with wax or those that absolutely cannot be wet.

In general, a steam cleaner is an effective means of cleaning various surfaces. The main thing is to strictly follow the operating rules, choose the right attachments (for textiles - an iron, for tiles - a nozzle or brush, etc.) and follow safety precautions.

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Steam cleaner for home, owner reviews

There is no housewife or owner who would not like to make cleaning easier and more efficient. So lately I’ve been thinking more and more often: should I buy a steam cleaner? In order not to regret the purchase, I decided to first turn to popular women's forums for opinions.

The first question that was useful to clarify is: what is the difference between a steam cleaner and a steamer? A steamer can only handle ironing clothes, while a steam cleaner can both iron (with a special attachment) and make cleaning easy (especially in the kitchen and bathroom) without the use of chemical detergents.

Is it possible and with what means to properly wash suspended ceilings in the kitchen?

The main feature of the kitchen is the use of grease, which often settles on the tiles, stove and ceiling. That is why it is worth using products that actively fight fat. Fairy dishwashing liquid is suitable. Also, by the way, there will be a universal cleaner for kitchen surfaces.

Products for cleaning ceilings in the kitchen:

• Special ceiling care products
• Mister Muscle for the kitchen
• Mister Proper for the kitchen

Is it possible and with what means to properly wash suspended ceilings in the kitchen?

Fighting stains

Is it possible to wash suspended ceilings? Sometimes this is simply necessary if the ceiling is dirty or stained. There are seven types of contaminants most often encountered in everyday life.

1. Dust. The best option is dry cleaning. If you decide to refresh the surface with a damp cloth, at the end of cleaning you need to wipe the coating dry with a cloth or paper napkin.
2. Construction dust. If the room has recently been renovated, you will need a vacuum cleaner. Clean the ceiling from construction dust, holding the brush at a distance of 3-10 cm from the surface. Next, go over with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dirt.
3. Soap stains. Dissolve a tablespoon of vodka or ammonia in 1 liter of cold water. Rub the mixture onto the contaminated areas, rinse with clean water and wipe dry.
4. Fat. Dilute dish detergent slightly with water. Gently rub the dirty areas, then rinse off any remaining soap with water. Be sure to wipe the ceiling dry to avoid streaks.
5. Condensate. Drops of water that have accumulated in the bathroom can be wiped off with a microfiber cloth without any additional means.
6. Web. This type of contamination is best removed with a broom wrapped in a dry or barely damp lint-free cloth.
7. Yellowness after flooding. Soda ash will help remove stains from the stretch ceiling after pouring. Dilute a tablespoon of product in 1 liter of water and carefully treat contaminated areas. If, after wiping the coating with clean water, you notice that not all stains are gone, repeat the procedure.

There is always a risk that the detergent will change the color of the coating. Therefore, before starting to treat the surface, check the reaction of the material to the composition by applying it to a small area in the corner. If after 15 minutes no negative changes have occurred, start cleaning.

Video on the topic

When deciding to decorate your home with a suspended ceiling, you need to take many precautions. For example, do not allow your child to shoot pellets from a toy gun in a room where there is a tension structure. Also be careful when opening a bottle of champagne. Both the bullet and the cork can cause holes in the film. And to ensure that your renovation always looks like new, arm yourself with the knowledge of how to wash a suspended ceiling without streaks.

Why wash suspended ceilings with ammonia?

This is a universal product that can be used to clean glossy ceilings. Its main purpose is to get rid of divorces. It is ammonia that is introduced into window and tile cleaning products. But ammonia works well to remove stains on fabrics. It helps remove old and stubborn stains.

Why wash suspended ceilings with ammonia?

How it works?

First, let's look at the structure of this technique. This is a design that includes:

• Heating heating element.
• Release device for releasing a jet of steam.
• Water container.
• A tube for releasing steam, which has various attachments.

After starting, the water in the container quickly heats up to 140 degrees Celsius and turns into steam. You can then pull the trigger. Next, the steam cleans what is under the stream. It should also be noted that there are different types of nozzles. These attachments are sometimes included in a set, but most often are purchased separately. But they are not very expensive, and you can buy them at any hardware store.

Conclusion 4 about cleaning the toilet with a steam cleaner

It’s better to forget about cleaning the toilet. Imagine this horror. You steam remove germs from under the toilet rim. That's a plus. But the steam goes into the air. Along with microbes. And now they are not in the toilet, but in the air of the apartment.

Also, in order to use a steam cleaner in the bathroom and toilet, you need to buy a set of special round brushes for your device. With hard and soft bristles. Place on the tip where the steam comes out.

They perfectly clean chrome pipes in Jacuzzis, drains in showers, and limescale around taps can also be removed with a brush, but first soften them with special chemicals.

This is the experience of using a steam cleaner when cleaning an apartment from the owner of a cleaning company, which, by the way, not only organizes the entire cleaning process, but also goes into every detail. What is the best way to remove it, how to do it better and faster. What do you think about cleaning your home with a steam cleaner? Would you like to buy one for yourself?