Which floors can you steam clean? A guide by floor type

Why is a steam cleaner ideal for your floor?

A steam cleaner makes a real difference when it comes to cleaning your floor. Unlike a mop, a steam cleaner uses hot steam that penetrates deep into the surface. It removes dirt, grease and bacteria without leaving streaks or residue behind. What's more, your floor dries in no time.

Mopping with a steam cleaner vs a regular mop

Steam cleaners offer plenty of advantages over traditional cleaning methods. Here are a few reasons why a steam cleaner is a smart investment:

• Streak-free mopping: Using too much soap is why we often see streaks after mopping. You won't have that problem with a steam cleaner, as it mops your floor with nothing but water. The result is a streak-free finish.
• Eco-friendly: You don't need chemical cleaning products, just water. That also means no more plastic bottles. 
• Versatile: You can use a steam cleaner on lots of surfaces, not just your floor. That makes it far more versatile.
• Kills bacteria on your floor: Unlike a mop, the hot steam from a steam cleaner actually kills bacteria. So your floor gets properly clean. Just make sure you use a steam cleaner with enough bar, so the steam is hot enough. For example, the Techweise TS1 Steam Cleaner
  

Which floors can you clean with steam?

Not every floor is suitable for a steam cleaner. Below, you'll find out whether your floor is suitable and what to keep in mind.

Tiles, natural stone and grout
You can definitely steam clean tiles, natural stone (not marble!) and grout. It's best to choose a powerful steam cleaner with high steam pressure, such as the Techweise TS2 Performance Steam Cleaner. Just make sure you don't use hard brushes, as they can quickly cause scratches.

Carpets and rugs
Carpets and rugs are suitable for steam cleaning too. For carpets, you'll need a steam cleaner with a special carpet glider. This cleans the carpet without making it too wet. It comes with both the Techweise TS1 and the Techweise TS2 Performance Steam Cleaner, along with plenty of other attachments!

Concrete
Concrete floors are well suited to steam cleaning because they can withstand high temperatures and moisture. Concrete floors are also usually well sealed, so they don't absorb moisture and are less likely to be damaged by steam cleaning.

Laminate and linoleum
You can steam clean laminate and linoleum, but there are a few precautions to take. Make sure the floor is properly sealed to prevent moisture damage. Keep the steam cleaner moving so too much moisture doesn't build up in one spot. It's also a good idea to use a microfibre cloth to spread the steam evenly. Always read your floor's care instructions for specific recommendations.

Vinyl floors

Vinyl floors can generally handle steam, but we recommend keeping the steam cleaner moving at all times to avoid damaging the top layer. With vinyl, it's important to take care.

Wooden floors

You can use a steam cleaner on wooden floors, but only if they're properly sealed or treated. Take care, as the heat and moisture from the steam can cause damage. Keep the mop head moving at all times so the steam doesn't stay in one spot for too long.

If in doubt, always check the floor manufacturer's instructions.

Want to know which steam cleaners are suitable for these floors? Explore our range here.

 Floor types that aren't suitable for a steam cleaner

Here are a few floor types you're better off not using a steam cleaner on:

1. Unlacquered hardwood: The heat and moisture from the steam can warp or damage these floors.
2. PVC floors
3. Unglazed ceramic surfaces: Like unvarnished hardwood, these surfaces can be damaged by exposure to steam.
4. Poorly sealed floors: Floors that aren't properly sealed can absorb moisture, leading to warping, swelling or other damage.
5. Waxed floors: The steam can strip the wax layer, leaving the floor without its shine and protection.
6. Soft vinyl floors: Most vinyl floors can handle steam, but softer types can be damaged by the heat.

Steam cleaner FAQs

Q) How often should I steam my floor?
A) It depends on your household. For an average household, steaming 1 to 2 times a week is enough.

Q) Can a steam cleaner remove stains?
A) Yes, a steam cleaner can effectively remove small stains and disinfect surfaces. The hot steam loosens dirt and stains, making them easier to remove. For large or stubborn stains, a steam cleaner may not be enough and you may need other cleaning methods as well.

Q) Do I need to use distilled water?
A)It's not strictly necessary, but we strongly recommend using distilled or demineralised water in your steam cleaner. This helps prevent limescale, which extends the life of the appliance and makes steam cleaning more effective.

Conclusion: a steam cleaner is usually an excellent choice for cleaning your floor!

A steam cleaner is often an excellent choice for cleaning your floor without chemicals. It gives you a hygienic clean and it's an eco-friendly option too. It's worth knowing, though, that whether a steam cleaner is suitable depends on the type of floor you have. For example, waxed floors such as PVC are better mopped to avoid damage.

Want the best steam cleaner for your floor? Go for a powerful, versatile model such as the Techweise TS1 or the Techweise TS2 Performance Steam Cleaner. These steam cleaners give you an effective, efficient way to clean not just your floor, but almost every other surface in your home too.

Curious about our full range of floor steam cleaners? Click here.