Buying a steam cleaner: what should you pay attention to?
In the world of cleaning and hygiene, steam cleaners are becoming increasingly prominent. These versatile devices offer a powerful and environmentally friendly way to thoroughly clean a variety of surfaces without the use of harsh chemicals. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the right steam cleaner for your needs? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the most important aspects to consider when buying a steam cleaner.
Aspect |
Important Considerations When Buying a Steam Cleaner |
Assets |
Choose at least 1500 watts for effective cleaning |
Steam temperature |
Steam of 120 degrees kills all bacteria |
Water reservoir |
Minimum 370 milliliters for 20 minutes of continuous use |
Warm-up time |
Maximum 3 minutes to get started quickly |
Accessories |
Various attachments for different cleaning tasks |
Safety |
Child lock and automatic switch-off in case of overheating |
Warranty |
Minimum 2 years for carefree use |
Price-quality ratio |
Invest in quality for sustainable results |
Power and steam pressure: the core of effective cleaning
The power of a steam cleaner, expressed in watts, is a crucial factor that determines the effectiveness of the device. A higher wattage generally means more steam production and a higher steam pressure. For domestic use, a power of at least 1500 watts is recommended.
The steam pressure, measured in bar, is also important. A higher pressure produces a more powerful steam jet, which removes dirt and bacteria more effectively. For most household tasks, a steam pressure of at least 3.5 bar is sufficient, but for stubborn dirt a higher pressure may be desirable.
Power (watts) |
Suitable for |
1000-1500 |
Light household chores |
1500-2000 |
Average household use |
2000+ |
Intensive cleaning and professional use |
Steam pressure (bar) |
Cleaning capacity |
2-3 |
Basic surface cleaning |
3.5-4.5 |
Effective cleaning for most tasks |
5+ |
Powerful cleaning for stubborn dirt |
Water reservoir and continuous steam function
The size of the water tank determines how long you can work without having to refill. For domestic use, a tank of at least 1.5 litres is recommended. This provides sufficient capacity for most cleaning tasks without frequent interruptions.
A continuous steam function is a valuable addition that ensures an uninterrupted work process. Some models, such as the Samako Royal Elite steam cleaner, offer the possibility to refill water during use, which further increases efficiency.
Warm-up time and ease of use
A short warm-up time ensures that you can get started quickly. Modern steam cleaners are often ready to use within 2-3 minutes. Also pay attention to the ease of use: a lightweight design, a long power cord and easy-to-use buttons contribute to a pleasant cleaning experience.
Versatility through accessories
The accessories that come with your steam cleaner will largely determine its versatility. Look for a model that comes with a variety of attachments for different cleaning tasks:
- Floor nozzle for hard floors and carpets
- Hand-held steam device for smaller surfaces
- Window wiper for glass and mirrors
- Point jet nozzle for joints and hard-to-reach places
- Various brushes for different materials
A steam cleaner with an extensive set of accessories, such as the Samako Royal Elite, offers more flexibility and can be used for almost all cleaning tasks in the home.
Safety features
Safety is an important aspect when choosing a steam cleaner. Look for the following safety features:
- Child lock to prevent accidental use
- Automatic shutdown in case of overheating
- Pressure relief valve to prevent overpressure
- Thermal fuse for extra protection
Sustainability and warranty
Invest in a quality product that will last. Choose a steam cleaner from a reputable brand that is known for its durable products. Pay attention to the warranty conditions; a warranty of at least 2 years is recommended for carefree use in the long term.
Price-quality ratio
Although it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is wise to invest in a quality steam cleaner. A good machine will last longer, perform better and ultimately offer more value for money.
Price range |
Features |
€50-€100 |
Basic functionality, limited accessories |
€100-€200 |
Good performance, reasonable set of accessories |
€200-€300 |
High quality, extensive accessory set, durable |
€300+ |
Professional quality, top performance, excellent durability |
Environmental friendliness
A steam cleaner is naturally an environmentally friendly choice, as it minimizes the use of chemical cleaning agents. Some models go a step further by using sustainable materials or energy-saving technologies.
Specific cleaning tasks
Consider what specific tasks you want to use the steam cleaner for. Some common uses include:
- Cleaning floors (hard floors and carpets)
- Disinfect bathroom and kitchen
- Clean windows and mirrors without streaks
- Refresh furniture and mattresses
- Thoroughly clean joints and sealants
Make sure the steam cleaner you choose is suitable for the tasks that are most important to you.
The Samako Royal Elite steam cleaner
When we look at the Samako Royal Elite steam cleaner , we see that it meets many of the above criteria:
- Powerful 1500 watts of power
- High steam pressure of ... bar
- Large water reservoir of 370 milliliters
- 5 meter long cord for extra freedom of movement
- Extensive set of accessories for various cleaning tasks
- Safety features such as automatic shut-off
- 12 months warranty
This steam cleaner offers an excellent balance of power, versatility and ease of use, making it a strong choice for both domestic and semi-professional use.
Remember that investing in quality is often more cost-effective in the long run. A good steam cleaner, such as the Samako Royal Elite steam cleaner, can provide years of reliable service and contribute to a cleaner, healthier home without the use of excessive chemicals.