Floor cleaning doesn't have to be a pain! Read this easy how to guide about using steam cleaners and mops to make the job easy.
Updated
While they may seem similar, these tools are actually quite different. Carpet steam cleaners don’t in fact use steam, but hot water, and they are not suitable for hard surfaces. Steam mops, on the other hand, do use steam and are suitable for hard surfaces and sometimes carpets, too (though dedicated cleaners are often more effective on these). A steam vacuum cleaner is suitable for both carpets and hard floors.
The first step is to choose your carpet cleaner. Look at online reviews – ideally, you want high ratings on both soil and water removal. And, of course, always check whether steam cleaning is suitable for your carpets. Delicate materials such as jute or expensive rugs may need professional care.
In general, it’s a good idea to avoid detergents that are too alkaline (pH of 10 or more). Otherwise, you may end up damaging the dyes and fibres in your carpet. For delicate natural materials, such as wool, it may even be worth neutralising afterwards with a weak vinegar solution.
Again, pairing surface and cleaner is critical. While steam mops work perfectly on tiling and stone and vinyl flooring, more care is needed for wood, laminates, and carpets. This is especially true for carpets since, as mentioned, steam mops use actual steam, which can damage synthetic fibres and cause natural ones to shrink. Be sure to test on an inconspicuous area first.
Originally published
