Steam cleaners in our range include steam mops for floors, handheld units for small jobs and larger boiler-style machines for whole-home cleaning. They suit households that want to clean tiles, sealed floors, bathrooms, kitchens and upholstery with hot steam instead of chemicals. Leading brands include Polti, Kärcher, BLACK+DECKER and Vileda.
How to choose a steam cleaner
Type of machine. A steam mop is quick to pull out and good for daily floor care. A handheld unit reaches grout, taps, oven doors and car interiors, while a boiler-style cleaner with a hose gives you more steam and more attachments for a whole house.
Tank size and heat-up time. A small tank heats quickly but needs refilling during a big job. A larger boiler runs for longer on one fill, which matters if you clean several rooms in one go. Check whether the tank can be topped up while the machine is hot, as not all can.
Steam pressure and temperature. Higher pressure, usually given in bar, helps lift baked-on grease and grime from grout and hobs. Floor mops work at lower pressure, which is enough for everyday dirt. Match the figure to the job rather than choosing the highest number.
Accessories. Look at what is in the box: floor heads, microfibre pads, narrow nozzles, brushes, extension tubes and window squeegees. A machine with the right attachments will do more than one with stronger steam but only a single tool.
Surfaces and safety. Steam suits sealed tiles, glazed surfaces, stainless steel and many fabrics. Unsealed wood, some laminates and delicate materials can be damaged by heat and moisture, so check the manufacturer's guidance. A child safety cap and a long power cable are both worth having.
Steam cleaner brands we carry
- Polti: an Italian brand known for its Vaporetto range of steam cleaners, and the largest group of models in our range.
- Kärcher: a German cleaning specialist, best known for pressure washers, which also makes household steam cleaners.
- BLACK+DECKER: a power tool and home appliance brand that offers steam mops and handheld steamers for general household use.
- Vileda: known for mops, cloths and floor-cleaning systems, including steam mops built around its own pads.
- Bissell: a floor care brand with a long history in carpet and hard floor cleaning machines.
- Ariete and Severin: established small appliance makers from Italy and Germany respectively, offering steam cleaners alongside kitchen and household products.
Also in our range: ADLER, GORENJE, ESPERANZA, ELDOM and TRISTAR.
Steam cleaner FAQ
Can a steam cleaner be used on all floors?
No. Steam works well on sealed tiles, vinyl and glazed surfaces, but it can damage unsealed wood, some laminates and waxed floors. Test a small hidden area first and follow the flooring maker's advice.
Does a steam cleaner disinfect without chemicals?
Hot steam can reduce many germs and bacteria on hard surfaces when the steam is applied for long enough. Results depend on the machine, the contact time and the surface. It is a good way to clean without detergents, but it is not a medical-grade sterilisation method.
What is the difference between a steam mop and a steam cleaner?
A steam mop is built mainly for floors and is used upright, like a normal mop. A steam cleaner, often with a separate boiler and hose, usually comes with more attachments for grout, upholstery, windows and other surfaces. Some steam mops can be converted into handheld units.
What water should I use in a steam cleaner?
Tap water is fine in many models, but in hard water areas limescale can build up inside the boiler and block the steam outlet. Using demineralised water or a descaling cartridge, if the manual recommends it, helps protect the machine. Always check the instructions for your model, as some brands advise against additives.
