Steam cleaning has been the most popular method for removing dirt and stains from carpets and even furniture for some time. It is also an excellent solution for cleaning wooden floors and tiles, as it leaves less residue than other washing methods sometimes used. Knowing how to use steam correctly to degrease carpets, fabrics or floors, you can be sure to remove allergens, mold and stubborn dirt.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Rugs and Cloth Coverings
Step 1. Vacuum the floor, furniture and curtains you intend to steam clean to remove dirt, dust, cobwebs and lint
If you need to steam clean carpets, move all the furniture in the room before vacuuming
Step 2. Mix a small portion of cleaning solution with warm water
Then, to test it, rub a small amount in an area of the carpet (15 or 20 square centimeters) or on the underside of the upholstery of the sofa you intend to clean. Come back after 10 or 15 minutes and see if the fabric has faded. If so, dilute the solution with more water before doing another test.
If the solution discolours the carpet or fabrics, try using only hot water when using the steam cleaning machine. While it does not remove grease or other stains satisfactorily, it will still remove some dirt and leave the upholstery fresher
Step 3. Fill the tank of the machine according to the recommended amounts of hot water and detergent (check the side of the container where you put the cleaning solution for the precise amount)
Alternatively, if you need to connect the machine to a hose that goes to the kitchen or bathroom faucet, turn on the hot water.
Step 4. Start from one corner of the room or one end of the cabinet and work your way around the area
Push the machine that will vaporize the solution and pull it back to suck it up along with the dirt. Repeat in areas where the dirt is more stubborn.
Method 2 of 2: Solid Wood, Laminate and Tiles
Step 1. Prepare the area first steam clean, removing residue and dust with a cloth, mop or vacuum cleaner
If there are visible traces of dirt on the floor, there is a risk of scratching it when wiping with the cleaner.
- Most parquet steam cleaning machines use only water. However, to degrease heavily soiled floors, especially if there are impurities left by soaps or unhygienic residues that commonly creep between bathroom tiles, you can add a medium pH cleaning solution.
- By using a steam cleaner on a floor that has wear stains, you run the risk of the wood absorbing moisture and warping.
Step 2. Remove the water container and fill it with hot water
Reassemble it, turn on the machine and heat the water until steam begins to form.
Before replacing the container, check the filter to make sure it is clean. If it's dirty, put it under running hot water to wash it
Step 3. Start on one side of the room and work your way up, pushing the machine forward to expel the steam and then pulling it back so that the cloth at the base can collect the dirt dissolved by the steam
Advice
- People with allergies should use steam to thoroughly clean the floor twice a year to keep the house free from allergens and mold.
- You can rent a car from a company that makes them available for a fee (check on the Internet) or you can choose to buy your own. Those for rent are designed with industrial technology and, usually, can contain more detergent solution than machines intended for purely domestic use. Normally carpets and upholstery dry earlier when you use a rental car, because they have a more powerful vacuum system. However, those for the home are just as effective. For people with allergies, it can be a worthwhile investment.
