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7 Best Handheld Steam Cleaners of 2024

Updated
Bigger isn’t always better when it comes to steam cleaners.

Handheld steam cleaners can be useful for an assortment of household chores. Are you eager to harness the diverse abilities of steam but aren’t sure where to begin? That’s understandable: there’s an abundance of products for sale in this category.

Besides, simply purchasing the first one you come across may lead to disappointment later. So it’s important to know what features to consider so that you can select the ideal model for you.

But there’s no need to browse through hundreds of models anymore. We’ve reviewed seven of the best handheld steam cleaners for you. Whether you’re looking for something for everyday use, something for larger homes, or something to clean up after your pets, we can help.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Bissell Steam Shot Multi-Surface
Best for Everyday Use
Bissell Steam Shot Multi-Surface
  • Removes 99.9% of germs
  • Good range of attachments
  • Safe for most surfaces
Product Image of the Mosche Pressurized Steam Cleaner
Best for Multipurpose Applications
Mosche Pressurized Steam Cleaner
  • Sanitize numerous items & surfaces
  • Easy to maneuver and use
  • Reassuring safety features
Product Image of the Light N' Easy With Mop
Best for the Whole House
Light N' Easy With Mop
  • User-friendly smart switch
  • Multiple settings and attachments
  • Heats up fast
Product Image of the Comforday Pressurized Steam
Most Portable
Comforday Pressurized Steam
  • Convenient for steaming
  • Plenty of accessories
  • For simple daily tasks
Product Image of the Comforday High Pressure
Best for Sanitization
Comforday High Pressure
  • Soothingly high heat
  • Great for stubborn outdoor dirt
  • 9 accessories
Product Image of the PurSteam 10-in-1
Best for Pets & Kids
PurSteam 10-in-1
  • Attack stains before they set
  • Varied attachments for multiple surfaces
  • Long runtime
Product Image of the Bissell PowerFresh
Best for Extreme Filth
Bissell PowerFresh
  • Freedom of movement
  • Prepare surfaces for cleaning
  • Top to bottom abilities

Review Methodology: At Oh So Spotless, we take pride in providing you with a thorough analysis and assessment of the best handheld steam cleaners on the market. Our experienced professionals have conducted hands-on research and evaluations, comparing products based on criteria such as performance, design, and user experience. We share quantitative data, benchmark scores, and first-hand findings to help you make informed decisions. In our review, we identify key factors such as heat-up time, steam duration, attachments, and ease of use. We rank and measure these steam cleaners to ensure you can confidently choose the right one for your cleaning needs. Our results highlight the unique features that set each product apart from its competitors, ensuring your satisfaction with the highest standard of quality and performance.



The Best Handheld Steam Cleaners of 2024

We conducted extensive research investigating these products to save you the hassle of browsing for hours.

After much comparing and contrasting, we’ve narrowed it down to seven prime models. This is based on power, preparation time, tank capacity and included accessories to make your cleaning task more manageable.

We think you’ll find one among them to meet your expectations. Keep reading to learn technical specifications, pros, cons, and more.

Steam away your bacteria worries with these seven options.

Bissell Steam Shot Handheld Hard-Surface Cleaner

Best Handheld Steam Cleaner for Everyday Use

The Bissell Steam Shot handheld steam cleaner can tackle every day steaming. It is a powerful steam cleaner with an easy-to-press trigger, making this a breeze to use around the home on all hard surfaces.

With a 6.56-ounce tank capacity and a 30-second heating time, it’s great for quick cleaning. Simply turn it on, and have it ready to use in less than a minute. The 6.56-ounce tank means you get a good length of steam cleaning before needing to do any refills.

What We Like

Removes 99.9% of Germs

Using a steam cleaner is one of the safest, proven, and natural ways to eliminate unwanted pathogens without using chemicals. This makes it safe not only for young ones but for pets as well. The high pressure and temperature ensure not a single bacteria can harm your family.

A Good Range of Attachments

This comes with lots of attachments to help make every task more achievable. This includes a flat scraping tool, a grout brush, a fabric steamer for clothes, a window squeegee, an angle concentrator, and a detail brush.

Safe for Most Surfaces

Steam cleaners are as close as you can get to a one product fits all solution. It’s suitable for virtually all sealed surfaces. This includes ceramic, vinyl, laminate, granite, marble, and sealed hardwood. You can also use it on showers, windows, countertops, and other bathroom fixtures. It also only takes a couple of seconds to dry, so you don’t need to wait forever to use your surfaces again.

What We Don't Like

Missing Attachments

Many customers found that one or two accessories are not included in the parcel. This is super inconvenient as you need to buy an extension hose, for example, before you can start cleaning the hard-to-reach surfaces.

Only for Small Jobs

If you have big cleaning jobs you want to tackle, this isn’t the steam cleaner for you. According to customers, the tank is on the smaller side and typically runs out of steam within a few minutes. You will have to take a lot of trips to the sink to refill the tank, which can be a waste of time.

Doesn’t Feel Hot Enough

Quite a few disappointed customers reported that the steam didn’t feel hot enough to cut through grease and grime. The temperature of the water vapor isn’t specified, so we can’t be 100 percent sure that it reaches 212 degrees.

Product Specs

Power 1000 watts, high temperature.
Weight 4 pounds.
Tank Capacity and Warm-Up Time 6.6 ounces, ready in 30 seconds.
Power Cord Length 20 feet.
Included Accessories Accessory nozzle, flat scraping tool, grout brush, fabric steamer, window squeegee, angle concentrator, and detail brush.

Our Ratings

Cleaning Power
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Heat-up Time
4.5 / 5
Attachment Variety
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

This powerful steamer has been a game-changer for tackling various cleaning tasks in my home, from removing paint and tape residue to cleaning grease off walls and grime from grout. However, be cautious when using it on painted or veneered surfaces, as it can cause damage if left in one spot for too long. Although the main mop head works well, I found the accessories to be less durable and not as thoughtfully designed. Despite these minor drawbacks, the steamer has made a significant difference in cleaning tough messes, and I highly recommend it for those looking to reduce their reliance on chemicals for cleaning.

Mosche Pressurized Steam Cleaner with 9-Piece Accessory Set

Best Handheld Steam Cleaner for Multipurpose Applications

This model is targeted at users who can’t wait to start steam cleaning anything and everything. It comes with eight attachments to meet almost any demand.

A flexible hose is optimal for surfaces you want to distance yourself from (like toilets). Shorter nozzles are available for crannies and crevices. There’s a window-cleaning attachment and one for upholstery too.

The water tank capacity is generous for uninterrupted steaming. You get up to 12 minutes of runtime per tank of water.

What We Like

Sanitize Numerous Items and Surfaces

If you’re like us, there are plenty of places and belongings you can think of that could use steaming. Your car carpets, wrinkly dress shirts that never made it to the dry cleaners — the list goes on.

With the wide range of attachments, this steam cleaner will be your best buddy when it comes to sanitizing every random area of your home.

Accommodating to Maneuver and Use

The lightweight build should make this handheld steamer easy to carry and handle. You’ll only have to stop for water refills every 8-12 minutes. Weighing less than four pounds, most people will find this comfortable to use.

Reassuring Safety Features

Wary of curious children in your home inadvertently getting hurt? This device has a child-lock and safety cap.

What We Don't Like

No Accessories for Bigger Surfaces

Readers wanting a handheld steam cleaner that can do it all may be disappointed. None of the accessories are suitable for big cleaning jobs (e.g., floors in spacious rooms).

Not a Durable Build

You might find this works great out of the box. Then a few weeks later, customers noticed that it started to decrease in quality and power. Some even noticed leaks.

You Have to Hold Down Steam Button

This might be a pain for users. You have to hold down the steam button continuously. This gives you great control, but it might tire your finger out after a while.

Product Specs

Power 1,050 watts, 250 – 270 degrees Fahrenheit.
Weight 3.92 pounds.
Tank Capacity and Warm-Up Time 11.8 ounces, for 20 minutes of steaming.
Power Cord Length 9.4 feet
Included Accessories Free 9 pieces accessory.

Our Ratings

Cleaning Power
4 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Heat-up Time
3.5 / 5
Attachment Variety
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

Excellent handheld pressurized steam cleaner for various cleaning tasks! After reading the instructions, I found that the water tank holds a small amount and requires frequent refills. The spray button takes getting used to, as you need to press it with the top of your thumb. Despite the fine spray, which evaporates quickly, cleaning efficiency is satisfactory with the included attachments. However, be prepared for a slightly longer heating time and less pressure compared to other steam cleaners.

Light N’ Easy Handheld Steam Cleaner With Mop

Best Handheld Steam Cleaner for the Whole House

You don’t have to buy two different-sized steam cleaners if you live in a palatial home. The Light N’ Easy Handheld Steam Cleaner is compatible with big and small jobs alike.

This gadget comes with a mop attachment to get your floors back in shape. There are no buttons to mess with. Standing the mop upright will cause it to cease steaming immediately.

If your counters and other surfaces are also super-sized, there’s a smart switch in handheld mode too. You’ll also get a one year warranty.

What We Like

User-Friendly Smart Switch in Both Modes

We’ve all suffered the pain of tired-out button fingers. In either mode, smart switches make controlling the steam gentle on your hands. Simply place the steamer upright, and the steam will stop. Start using it again to resume steam. Super easy!

Versatile for Many Surfaces

This model has three settings: high, medium, and low. You can adjust as needed for everything from hardy ceramic to aging vinyl flooring.

Aside from the mop, you also receive a garment steamer with a flexible hose. Refresh your furniture or straighten out furrowed fabrics.

Heats Up In 30 Seconds

Impatient cleaners with much to do will find this handheld steam cleaner’s rapid heating time appealing. It only takes half a minute to be ready for action.

What We Don't Like

Unstable Mop Pads

Some users have reported that the velcro mop pads don’t hold up to energetic movement. So if you aren’t gentle while cleaning your floors, this may not be the product for you.

May Be Too Heavy

Some users have reported that the device has too much weight, even without the mop. Keep that in mind if you wish to use it as a handheld steamer often.

Product Specs

Power 1550 watts, 230 degrees Fahrenheit.
Weight 6.4 pounds.
Cord Length 20 feet.
Tank Capacity and Warm-Up Time 11.5 ounces, ready in 30 seconds. Runtime N/A.
Accessories Mop with pad, handheld garment steamer with pad and flexible hose, handheld nozzle attachment, measuring cup.

Our Ratings

Cleaning Power
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Heat-up Time
4.5 / 5
Attachment Variety
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

Great steam mop for my Pilates and Fitness studio with wood flooring! It's easy to assemble, and although it requires some physical effort to use, the results are fantastic - the floor is squeaky clean and shiny. Just be sure to vacuum before using, get extra fabric mop head attachments, and use an extension cord due to the short cord length.

Comforday Pressurized Steam Cleaner

Best Portable Handheld Steam Cleaner

This handheld steam cleaner is built for maneuverability. At 3.28 pounds, it’s one of the most lightweight we have found.

This model is best for swift or light-duty housework. If you already have other tools and products in your cleaning kit for serious jobs, this cleaner should be a good fit. With nine accessories, you can apply them to various menial tasks around your house.

It may also work great if you’re prone to straining your wrists and arms. Plus, if you’re planning to steam clean the whole house, it won’t become painful to carry from room to room.

What We Like

Convenient for On-The-Go Steaming

It has an ample cord length of 9.8 feet to give you considerable reach. Combined with the compact weight, you’ll have a liberal range of motion to profit from.

Plenty of Accessories

The many accessories turn an otherwise simple gadget into a multitasker. Attachments of note include a brush head and a bent nozzle for neglected crannies.

Useful for Simple Daily Tasks

This machine is best suited to smaller, shorter daily tasks. For instance, you can tick off chores like steaming wrinkled office clothes or de-greasing the sink after dinner.

Works On Multiple Surfaces

Use this to steam clean various surfaces, including upholstery, glass, hardwood, ceramic, marble, and more. Sanitize every area of your home with this gadget.

What We Don't Like

Takes a While to Warm Up

Users who get into a rhythm while working and hate interruptions may not enjoy the machine. It takes up to four to five minutes to heat up fully.

Doesn’t Feel Hot Enough

Customers reported that the steam didn’t feel hot. Some even said it felt cold! If yours is defective in this way, it’s unlikely it will be very good at cleaning.

Product Specs

Power 1050 watts, temperature N/A.
Weight 3.28 pounds.
Cord Length 9.8 feet.
Tank Capacity and Warm-Up Time 8 ounces, ready in 3 to 5 minutes. Runtime N/A.
Accessories Measuring cup, funnel, long spray nozzle, brush head, bent nozzle, window brush plate, fabric steam tool, extension hose with nozzle, and towel sleeve.

Our Ratings

Cleaning Power
3.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Heat-up Time
3 / 5
Attachment Variety
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I recently tried out a new steam cleaner and found it to be a mixed bag of results. On one hand, it worked wonders on small areas like bathroom walls and steaming jeans. However, it struggled to maintain steam for larger areas, requiring frequent water refills. The trigger can be a bit tiring to hold, but the device does come with a variety of useful attachments.

Comforday High Pressure Handheld Steamer

Best Handheld Steam Cleaner for Sanitization

This high-powered machine will entice fastidious cleaners. If you’re aiming for more than just a superficial clean, we’d like to introduce you to the Comforday. Users with outdoor items like BBQs to steam may also like this model.

By definition, steamer cleaners must reach operating temperatures of at least 212 degrees Fahrenheit to steam. Still, the hotter the steam, the more effective it will be at breaking down dirt and killing germs.

This handheld steamer boasts an operating temperature of up to 270 degrees Fahrenheit. Combined with the intense pressure output, it should destroy almost anything harmful or nasty in your home.

What We Like

Soothingly High Heat

Do you have young children or family members with weak immune systems? When you sanitize bacteria-laden areas like the bathroom, you’re working with nearly 300 degrees Fahrenheit of steam. This will kill almost 100 percent of germs, creating a healthier habitat for your family.

Great for Stubborn Outdoor Dirt

The high pressure and high heat have other applications. You can address long-neglected outdoor items desperate for a clean, like crusty BBQs.

Nine Accessories for Deep Cleaning

Nine accessories (six for steaming) should be enough for you to tackle most areas and items. There’s an extension hose to treat areas that are hard to reach. Other helpful tools include a brush head, fabric iron, and squeegee.

Lockable Steam Trigger

Many options we reviewed require the user to hold down the trigger while they steam. But not this option. You can lock the trigger in place, making this a lot easier to use.

What We Don't Like

You Can’t Tilt the Steamer

People who tend to drift off while cleaning may not want the Comforday. Tilting it beyond 45 degrees risks spilling boiling water out through the nozzle. Forgetting can lead to injury or damage.

You Can’t Fill the Tank All the Way

You lose nearly three ounces of tank capacity due to the construction. The extra space is for steam generation.

Product Specs

Power 1,050 watts, 250 to 270 degrees Fahrenheit.
Weight 3.9 pounds.
Cord Length 4 to 5 feet.
Tank Capacity and Warm-Up Time 11.8 ounces (can only be filled to 8.4 ounces), ready in 3 to 4 minutes for 15 to 20 minutes of steaming.
Accessories Measuring cup, funnel, extended hose, brush head, bent nozzle, squeegee for windows/doors, brush plate, long nozzle, towel sleeve.

Our Ratings

Cleaning Power
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
4 / 5
Heat-up Time
4 / 5
Attachment Variety
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

User Experience

I've been using this steam cleaner for various tasks and it's been fantastic! It's lightweight and perfect for detailing my car, as well as getting into those hard-to-clean crevices. The only downside is that it lacks a continuous steaming mechanism, but I found a workaround using a rubber band on the handle to keep the pressure going.

PurSteam 10-in-1 Handheld Steam Cleaner

Best for Homes With Pets and Kids

It goes without saying that you love your kids and your pets. What you might not be as fond of love is the sudden, disastrous messes animals and little ones can cause.

The PurSteam 10-in-1 is a good choice for family homes. First, it heats up rapidly: 30 seconds, and you can begin steaming. You’ll be able to get that spilled juice or puppy urine out of the carpet before it sets in.

We also appreciate that this device has multiple attachments you can switch between to reach every cranny.

What We Like

Attack Stains Before They Set

If you’re quick, you can be steaming in less than a few minutes. This way, the spill surface has a better chance of being salvaged.

Varied Attachments for Multiple Surfaces

There are three separate nylon brush heads for loosening up all sorts of crud. Smaller accessories like the bent nozzle will help for getting into corners. You also have a mop attachment for bigger jobs.

Long Runtime on Lowest Setting

Keeping this handheld steam cleaner on low will get you 25 minutes of runtime. Although you get half that on the highest setting, it reheats promptly.

What We Don't Like

Mop Pads May Shrink After Washing

If you use this model as a steam mop, you’ll need to wash the pads frequently. Unfortunately, some users report that the pads shrink after being washed.

Brushes Are All Small

The nylon brushes are all on the smaller side. So if you want to thoroughly scrub down a big item or area, they may slow you down.

Product Specs

Power 1550 watts, temperature N/A.
Weight 2.2 pounds.
Cord Length N/A.
Tank Capacity and Warm-Up Time 11.5 ounces, ready in 30 seconds, 20 to 25 minutes of runtime on the lowest setting, half that on the highest setting.
Accessories Mop attachment, mop cleaning pads, 3 nylon brushes of varying size, bent nozzle, window squeegee, straight nozzle.

Our Ratings

Cleaning Power
4 / 5
Ease of Use
4.5 / 5
Heat-up Time
5 / 5
Attachment Variety
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

As a realistic consumer, I found this lightweight steam mop to be a valuable addition to my cleaning routine. The variety of useful attachments and its compact, easy-to-store design are definite positives, but be prepared for a short cord and a small water tank.

Bissell PowerFresh Handheld Steam Cleaner

Best Handheld Steam Cleaner for Extreme Filth

Are you planning to wage a full-scale war on grime in your home? The Bissell PowerFresh could be a worthy ally.

This handheld steamer comes with accessories built to overcome formidable nuisance dirt. There’s a mop head with swivel steering to get into tight spaces. The long extension wand should reach rarely-cleaned areas like the top of your shower.

A flat scraper tool will help you simultaneously steam and scrape at sticky gunk. There’s also a special brush for targeting grime on grout. The built-in onboard toolkit means all the essentials are on the handheld steamer itself.

More On This Topic
Cleaning tile grout using steamerHow to Steam Clean Grout: Your Ultimate Cleaning Companion

What We Like

Freedom of Movement

The 25-foot long cord enables you to move around freely. You won’t have to keep unplugging and replugging the Bissell PowerFresh every few steps.

Prepare Surfaces for Cleaning

We’re all familiar with messes that won’t come off without elbow grease. The attachments on this model (particularly the scraper) can save you some effort. The combination of the steam and the scraping action makes it much easier to deep clean your home from extreme filth.

Top to Bottom Abilities

You have nearly full-house coverage with the extension wand, mop, and attachments. If you’re on a deep cleaning spree, this model can steam almost anywhere.

On-Board Storage

It’s great when a steam cleaner comes with a range of accessories. But it’s even better when it also provides onboard storage. Now you don’t need to lose a single piece of your steam cleaning entourage.

What We Don't Like

Mop Might Be Less Effective

Some users report that the device doesn’t steam as effectively when used as a mop. So if the star feature for you was the mop attachment, you might want to reconsider. The Light N’ Easy model above might be a preferable substitute.

Heavy When Used As Handheld

The handheld steamer weighs a little over six pounds — relatively heavy. If you can’t lift it for long, the practicality of the onboard tool kit won’t be of much use.

Product Specs

Power Information not available.
Weight 6.4 pounds.
Cord Length 25 feet.
Tank Capacity and Warm Up Time 11.8 ounces, ready in 30 seconds, runtime N/A.
Accessories Measuring cup, wall mount with screws, steam mop, soft mop pad, scrubby mop pad, extension wand, green bristle brush, red bristle brush, grout brush, scraper tool, fabric steamer with cloth.

Our Ratings

Cleaning Power
4.5 / 5
Ease of Use
3.5 / 5
Heat-up Time
5 / 5
Attachment Variety
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

Got this little machine and it's been a game-changer for cleaning my floors! It effortlessly tackles dried dog slobber and gets in between the tiles like a champ. The only downside is the handle's length, as I need to bend a bit when using it, but it's worth it for the fantastic results and lack of toxic fumes.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Power Weight Tank Capacity and Warm-Up Time Power Cord Length
Bissell Steam Shot For Everyday Steaming 1000 W, high temperature 4 lbs 6.6 oz, ready in 30 seconds 20 feet
Mosche Pressurized Steam Cleaner For Multipurpose Applications 1050 W, 250 – 270 degrees F 3.78 lbs 11.8 oz, ready in 3 – 4 minutes N/A
Light N’ Easy With Mop For the Whole House 1550 W, 212 degrees F 6.3 lbs 11.5 oz, ready in 30 seconds 20 feet
Comforday Cleaner For Portability 1050 W, 250-270 degrees F 3.28 lbs 8.45 oz, ready in 2 – 3 minutes 9.8 feet
Comforday High Pressure For Sanitization 1050 W, 250 – 270 degrees F 3.8 lbs 8.45 oz, ready in 3 – 4 minutes 4 – 5 feet
PurSteam 10-in-1 For Homes With Pets & Kids 1500 W, temperature N/A 2.2 lbs 11.5 oz, ready in 30 seconds 15.7 feet
Bissell PowerFresh For Extreme Filth N/A 6.4 lbs 12 oz, ready in 30 seconds 25 feet

The Lowdown on Handheld Steam Cleaners

You already know that handheld steam cleaners are among the smallest out there. They’re a great alternative to their larger counterparts for a few reasons.

  • Storage: You can store these more discreetly than bulky awkwardly-shaped gadgets.
  • Lightweight: Keeping our homes pristine is enough effort as it is. Thankfully, you don’t need herculean strength to manipulate a handheld steam cleaner.
  • Inexpensive: Handheld steam cleaners are smaller and simpler. Hence, they’re usually more affordable.

How Do They Work?

Handheld steam cleaners run off electricity and have tanks for water, albeit smaller ones. But the operating principles are the same. The water in the tank heats up, vaporizes, and produces steam for cleaning.

What Are They Used For?

In general, you can harness steam power for anything you deem necessary. That is, so long as whatever you’re treating can stand the heat.

We’ll give you a couple of common examples. Steam can be used to sterilize kitchen countertops and other surfaces potentially swarming with invisible foodborne bacteria.

It takes over 140 degrees Fahrenheit to kill these dangerous organisms (1). Fortunately, water vaporizes at 212 degrees Fahrenheit (2).

You can also steam clean baby accessories, grubby pet toys, filthy microwaves — the works.

Super-heated mist can also break down tough stains that detergents and elbow grease won’t touch. Think crusty barbecue grills or ovens coated in solidified gunk.

A frequently asked question is: will handheld steam cleaners kill bed bugs? Absolutely — steam is nearly 100 percent successful at killing these pests at all stages (3).

Take note, however, that the functionality of these machines can vary depending on the product. Certain handheld steam cleaners are better suited to particular chores than others.

Related Reading
Uses for steam cleanersBeyond Floors: Diverse and Genius Uses for Steam Cleaners

Choosing the Best Handheld Steam Cleaner

Choosing the right handheld steam cleaner is serious business. You need to know what you want to get out of your device. Assess these details carefully before you buy.

Maneuverability

Always check the weight of the product. All handheld steamers are generally lightweight, but this can still range from around two to seven pounds. We recommend choosing one on the lower end of the scale if you want something easier to handle.

Power cord length matters, too. A short cord might cut you off, especially if you don’t have as many outlets in your home. The cord length ranges from about four feet up to 25. Choose the length that best suits your home layout.

Water Tank Capacity

Bigger water tanks translate into more time spent steaming to your heart’s desire. At the same time, though, they also add weight to your handheld steam cleaner.

Tank sizes generally range from about six ounces to 12. If you are going to be steaming larger areas at once, opt for a bigger tank.

Preparation Time

Some models take up to four minutes to heat up, whereas others will vaporize water in less than a minute. Choose one that will suit your cleaning routine (and your patience levels).

Don’t Rush It

Never attempt to use your handheld steam cleaner before the indicator tells you it’s ready. The steamer won’t vaporize the water, and you could damage your device or get injured.

Accessories

More accessories mean greater flexibility in how you use the gadget. Nozzles, hoses, and even mops will allow you to apply it to a broader range of domestic duties.

So if you have an expansive to-steam list, check out the accessories. Ensure you’ll be getting everything you need to accomplish it.

Power

Not all handheld steam cleaners specify temperature or pressure levels. Despite that, it’s clear when one or both of these features are below par.

Higher wattage means more power to produce and heat steam (4). The greater the temperature, the more powerful your appliance will be against dirt.

Models that have trouble heating the water to vaporize won’t do half as well. The steam will be about as forceful as a hot cup of coffee if the pressure is weak.

We recommend looking for something that’s at least 1000 watts. This will be effective and powerful. As for temperature, you want it to be at least 212 degrees. Otherwise, the water won’t vaporize.

Quality of Design and Warranty

Don’t let the fact that we mentioned this towards the end fool you. A shoddy build can be hazardous to you as a user. A poor design might lead to nasty scalds (e.g., an unstable base).

Preferably, your handheld steam cleaner should come with a warranty. It’s nice to know that a company is there for support if needed.


FAQs

Do Handheld Steam Cleaners Really Work?

Handheld cleaners really do work, especially on soft furnishings, upholstery, curtains, and clothes. Because of the task size, you might struggle to steam clean a carpet with a handheld steamer.

How Do You Use a Handheld Steamer to Clean Upholstery?

The best way to use a handheld steam cleaner to clean upholstery is to allow the steamer to heat for thirty seconds before starting on the cushions. Then move on to the upholstery, working on the backrest and finally the seat.

Will Steam Cleaning Get Rid of Mildew?

Steam cleaning will get rid of mildew. It also removes mold, grease, ground-in dirt, and bacteria. The heat from the steam uses water to sanitize your surfaces better than chemical-based cleaners.

Does Steam Cleaning Remove Odors From Couch?

Steam cleaning does remove odors from your couch. Your couch may be dirtier than you might imagine. It is a place to relax and doubles as a pet bed, so all manner of bacteria and grime exists on your couches and chairs.

Can You Put Vinegar In a Handheld Steam Cleaner?

You can put vinegar in a handheld steam cleaner. It is 100 percent natural; it sanitizes, kills bacteria, and also disinfects the inside of your steam cleaner.


Our Steamy Summary

The best handheld steam cleaners can assist us with various everyday chores. They’re also practical to have around for bouts of deep cleaning.

As models have varied capabilities, there is no universal product that’s right for everyone. You need to determine what features are crucial to you (e.g., long runtime) and which aren’t.

You should also look ahead to what you will use it for. This will influence which accessories are vital for your work in the future. We hope you’ve found a machine compatible with you among our reviews.

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About the Author

Amy Anthony

Amy Anthony is a cleaning expert, author, and contributing writer for Oh So Spotless, a leading online resource for all things related to cleaning, organizing, and maintaining a spotless home. With over 15 years of experience in the cleaning industry, Amy has gained extensive knowledge and expertise that have made her a trusted authority on best practices, efficient techniques, and innovative cleaning solutions.