Steam cleaning services

There are some places in your home that are impossible to reach during your regular cleaning routine. That’s where steam cleaning could come in handy. Here’s how to choose the right steam cleaning service for you and your home.

What are steam cleaning services?

Simply put, steam cleaning is the process of using hot water — sometimes mixed with a detergent — to remove household dirt from your carpets, curtains, sofa or other upholstery. Some steam cleaning services can also work their magic on stubborn stains on tile grout and wooden flooring.

How does steam cleaning work?

Water is heated to a specific degree past boiling and forced out through a nozzle, brush or other attachment as pressurized steam. The heat and moisture from the vapor loosens dirt and kills culprits like bacteria, mold, allergens and dust mites that can compromise our health. The high-heat moisture dries quickly, so no suction is required.

What does a steam cleaning service do?

Contrary to popular belief, a steam cleaner can clean dirt and bacteria from more than just your carpet. Here are a few other places that can benefit from a steam cleaning service:

How much does a steam cleaning service cost?

Steam cleaning prices will vary by company, location and what’s being cleaned. For carpet cleaning, companies tend to quote their prices based on square footage.

Cost can range anywhere from $0.15 to $0.30 per square foot. For other steam cleaning services, expect to pay between $35 and $50 per room.

How do I hire a steam cleaning service?

You won’t need to search too hard to find a steam cleaning service near you. You’ll be able to find a list of local companies near you with a quick online search. Alternatively, use a site like Handy to find smaller local companies offering up their services.

Handy

Get your first cleaning for $39 when you sign up for a Handy cleaning plan

Offer valid only for new customers and for first three hours of cleaning

Last verified 24 Nov 2020

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Handy

$30 Off your first cleaning

When you sign up for a plan

Last verified 24 Nov 2020

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Pros and cons

You can choose to do the work yourself, but there are other considerations for hiring a service.

What to consider when hiring steam cleaning services

Not all steam cleaning services offer the same quality or value for money. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the service for you:

• Cost. Cheaper doesn’t always mean better when it comes to steam cleaning. Remember to weigh up the quality of the clean with the price to choose the right service for you.
• Reviews. Chat to friends and family to see if they know of a reputable service provider they’d recommend. Also, check out online reviews from previous customers.
• Insurance. Make sure the cleaner is covered for any accidents or damage that occurs on your property.
• Chemicals. Steam cleaning is possible with or without cleaning chemicals. Double-check with the company to see how their cleaning process works.
• Guarantee. Does the company offer a guarantee period if stains come back after being steam cleaned?

How should I prepare for a steam cleaning service?

If you’ve booked a carpet cleaning service or other floor treatment, it reduces the cost if you remove the furniture from the room first. After the clean, your carpets will need to dry for around five hours, so be prepared for this too. Other steam cleaning services shouldn’t require too much preparation beforehand.

Do I need to be at home for a steam clean?

It’s completely up to you whether you want to be home or not during your steam cleaning service. It may actually be easier if you aren’t at home, especially if you’re having your floor and carpets cleaned.

Bottom line

Steam cleaning is one of many house cleaning routines that get rid of deep-down dirt and grime. It’s likely best to let a professional handle the task, so investigate service providers carefully. The best candidate will meet your cleaning and budgetary needs.

Remember, it’s possible that some materials and items can get damaged from steam cleaning — meaning it’s worth it to do your research before deciding on a steam cleaning service.

Frequently asked questions about steam cleaning

• Will a steam cleaner sanitize my home?

  Steam cleaners are effective at destroying bacteria as they penetrate materials to provide a deep clean. The steam temperature kills bacteria and sanitizes surfaces.

• Will a steam cleaner ruin my shower?

  A steam cleaner shouldn’t ruin your shower if you use it correctly. Steam cleaning is very effective at removing grime from the shower cubicle. However, take extra care to avoid overheating any silicone tile sealant to prevent damage.

• What can I clean with a steam cleaner?

  You can use steam cleaners on a variety of surfaces. Steam cleaners are most commonly used to tackle carpets and upholstery, but they’re also useful on linoleum, vinyl, ceramic tiles and some laminated flooring. They can also be used to clean kitchen units, showers and mirrors.