This handy cleaning tool has a wide variety of uses.

But what exactly do steam cleaners do, and does one deserve a space in your cleaning arsenal?

Among them are fabric and clothing steamers, steam mops, and hard-surface or multi-surface steam cleaners.

Cleaning stove with steam cleaner

Credit:Grant Webster

Steam mops are exactly what they sound likemops that employ steam in addition to water and/or cleaning agents.

When working with steam, use caution to avoid painful burns.

pick the appropriate attachment for the task at hand, and affix it to the machine.

Cleaning stovetop with microfiber cloth and all purpose cleaner

Credit:Grant Webster

Turn the steamer on and allow it to heat up before beginning to clean.

When cleaning vertical surfaces, work from the top down.

Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for usage guidelines.

Steam cleaner attachment pieces

Credit:Grant Webster

Steam damage typically appears as warping, puckering,water staining, or melting.

Steam, as well as hot steam plates and attachments, can cause severe burns.

Attaching scrub attachment to steamer

Credit:Grant Webster

Steam cleaning stove

Credit:Grant Webster

Wiping excess water off stove

Credit:Grant Webster

Removing residue from stove

Credit:Grant Webster