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.
- Removes 99.9% of germs
- Good range of attachments
- Safe for most surfaces
- Sanitize numerous items & surfaces
- Easy to maneuver and use
- Reassuring safety features
- User-friendly smart switch
- Multiple settings and attachments
- Heats up fast
- Convenient for steaming
- Plenty of accessories
- For simple daily tasks
- Soothingly high heat
- Great for stubborn outdoor dirt
- 9 accessories
- Attack stains before they set
- Varied attachments for multiple surfaces
- Long runtime
- Freedom of movement
- Prepare surfaces for cleaning
- Top to bottom abilities
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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
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
| 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.
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
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.
