Buying a steam cleaner: what should you pay attention to?
In the world of cleaning and hygiene, the steam cleaner is taking an increasingly prominent place. These versatile devices offer a powerful and environmentally friendly way to thoroughly clean various 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 take you through the key aspects to consider when purchasing a steam cleaner.
|
Aspect |
Important considerations when buying a steam cleaner |
|
Power |
Choose at least 1500 watts for effective cleaning |
|
Steam temperature |
Steam at 120 degrees kills all bacteria |
|
Water reservoir |
At least 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 shut-off in case of overheating |
|
Warranty |
At least 2 years for worry-free use |
|
Price-quality ratio |
Invest in quality for lasting 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 higher steam pressure. For household use, a power of at least 1500 watts is recommended.
The steam pressure, measured in bar, is equally important. Higher pressure provides 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 (watt) |
Suitable for |
|
1000-1500 |
Light household tasks |
|
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 reservoir determines how long you can work without having to refill. For household use, a reservoir of at least 1.5 liters 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 workflow. Some models, such as the Samako Royal Elite steam cleaner, offer the option to refill water during use, which further increases efficiency.
Warm-up time and ease of use
A short warm-up time ensures you can get started quickly. Modern steam cleaners are often ready for use within 2-3 minutes. Also pay attention to ease of use: a lightweight design, a long power cord, and easy-to-operate buttons contribute to a pleasant cleaning experience.
Versatility through accessories
The included accessories largely determine the versatility of your steam cleaner. Look for a model that comes with various attachments for different cleaning tasks:
- Floor nozzle for hard floors and carpets
- Handheld steam device for smaller surfaces
- Window squeegee for glass and mirrors
- 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 virtually all cleaning tasks in the home.
Safety features
Safety is an important aspect when choosing a steam cleaner. Look out for the following safety features:
- Child lock to prevent unintended use
- Automatic shut-off in case of overheating
- Pressure relief valve to prevent overpressure
- Thermal fuse for extra protection
Durability and warranty
Invest in a quality product that lasts a long time. Choose a steam cleaner from a reputable brand known for its durable products. Pay attention to the warranty conditions; a warranty of at least 2 years is recommended for worry-free long-term use.
Price-quality ratio
While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is wise to invest in a high-quality steam cleaner. A good device lasts longer, performs better, and ultimately offers more value for your 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 even further by using sustainable materials or energy-saving technologies.
Specific cleaning tasks
Consider the specific tasks you want to use the steam cleaner for. Some common applications are:
- Clean floors (hard floors and carpets)
- Disinfect bathroom and kitchen
- Clean windows and mirrors streak-free
- Refresh furniture and mattresses
- Thoroughly clean grout and sealant joints
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 criteria mentioned above:
- Powerful 1500 watt output
- High steam pressure of ... bar
- Spacious water tank 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 household 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 reliable service for years and contributes to a cleaner, healthier home without excessive use of chemicals.
