However, because of the steam cleaners' widespread popularity overseas, Australian's are at an advantage when purchasing for ourselves - for we can assess what has occurred elsewhere, both success and failures, and make a better decision.

 

Please use this guide to assist you in obtaining the best steam cleaner for your home, and tips on making the most of it once you get it there.

 

What to look for in a steam cleaner: All steam cleaners are basically designed to do the same job, that is, to clean and sanitise without the need for chemicals. But, one model differs from another, and so does the quality vary.

 

Pressure: The pressure generated within the boiler directly effects the performance of your steam cleaner. The higher the pressure the more powerful the cleaner. A higher bar pressure creates hotter steam which more effectively dislodges dirt and grime and kills bacteria and mould. For faster, better cleaning choose a model with at least 3.5 bar and preferably 4 bar pressure or more.

 

Capacity: A family of four will get little use from a two-seater car. In the same way a mini-steamer or a steam-mop with a capacity of one or two cups, will not clean an average family home.  Full-size steam cleaners have a capacity greater than 1.5 litres and will provide at least 1-1.5 hours of uninterrupted steam: That is enough to clean the floors, bathroom and kitchen surfaces in an average home.  Larger homes or businesses should consider a 3 or 4 litre model or one with automatic refilling and a reservoir tank.

 

Accessories: A good steam cleaner comes equipped with a range of practical accessories to clean your whole home, including a small nozzle to reach those hard-to-get-at crevices. Ensure the model you choose has tools specifically designed to clean floors, walls, ceilings, glass, sinks, bathroom and kitchen.

 

Spare Parts: Some brush-nozzles will wear out over time, check that replacements are readily available and reasonably priced. A steam cleaner without replacement accessories is about as useful as a car without replacement tyres.

 

Optional Iron: Select a model which comes with the option of a professional iron attachment. This type of iron will give you high performance steam ironing, is up to 6 times more powerful than a domestic iron and can cut your ironing time in half. Use a professional iron just once and you will never want to use your old one again. If you do not want an iron straight away, check that you may purchase one separately later should you change your mind.

 

Safety Features: We cannot stress how important it is to look for the following safety features. A pressure relief valve, a safety filler cap, a thermo dry boiler switch with water out light or signal, and a thermo back-up switch. In addition,  adjustable steam volume allows you to confidently clean delicate surfaces and a drain located at the bottom of the steam cleaner makes for easy cleaning of the boiler - these features will be present on all good steam cleaners.

 

After Sales Support: Some Australian companies offer excellent after sales service.  If the concept of steam cleaning is new to you,  approach it the way you would if you were buying your very first computer.  Until you have tried one you can't imagine what questions you may want to ask.  This site is partly designed to answer those questions, but each model has its variations, so be sure to purchase from a reputable company that is happy to provide plenty of after sales support.