Steam cleaning
Use of a jet of steam to remove dirt
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Use
Steam cleaning is not suited for all materials, such as materials which are vapor-sensitive or sensitive for high temperatures. Some examples include silk, some types of plastic, leather, paper, wallpaper and water-based paint.[1]
Environmental friendliness
When used without soap, detergents, or other cleaning products, steam cleaning is an eco-friendly way of cleaning.[citation needed]
Bacteria
Steam cleaning is effective in eliminating 99.9% of bacteria, and is considered a modern way to clean home air-conditioners.[2]
Use in self-cleaning ovens
In ovens, steam cleaning is an alternative to catalysis and pyrolysis for making a self-cleaning oven, and uses a lower temperature (approximately 100 °C) compared to catalysis (approx. 200 °C) and pyrolysis (approx. 500 °C).[3]
Steam cleaning is widely used for deep cleaning surfaces using high-temperature steam, which helps loosen dirt, grease, and contaminants. The method is often associated with hot water extraction, a common carpet cleaning technique that injects hot water into fibres and extracts dirt using vacuum systems.[1]
The high temperature of steam enables effective sanitization, helping to eliminate bacteria, dust mites, and allergens without the need for harsh chemicals.[2]
Steam cleaning is commonly used in domestic and industrial applications, including carpet cleaning, floor maintenance, and equipment cleaning.[3]
See also
- Carpet cleaning – using "hot water extraction"
- Clothes steamer
- Steam mop
- Vapor steam cleaning
