Steam Cleaner vs. Upholstery Cleaner: Which One Do You Need

Many individuals often find themselves puzzled when it comes to distinguishing between a steam cleaner and an upholstery cleaner, often using the terms interchangeably. At our company, dedicated to delivering top-notch carpet cleaning services in NY, we encounter this common question from our customers. To alleviate any confusion surrounding these cleaning appliances,  it's crucial to understand their unique purposes and functionalities. In this exploration of steam cleaner versus upholstery cleaner, we aim to shed light on the distinctions, helping you make informed decisions for your specific cleaning needs.  

What Is a Steam Cleaner and How Does It Work?

A steam cleaner is a piece of equipment that heats water beyond the boiling point and releases the heated vapor through an attachment. The water vapor is pressurized and is thus able to remove allergens, bacteria, mold, dust mites, and even bed bugs. Steam is highly effective at topical sanitizing because it consists of very small water molecules that can penetrate the pores of various surfaces, and the heat helps eliminate microorganisms.

Handheld Steam Cleaners

Handheld steam cleaners are compact and versatile cleaning devices that efficiently use heated vapor to tackle a variety of surfaces. They are affordable and portable and are mostly used for steaming wrinkles or cleaning small areas. Whether to steam your clothes or or sanitize your appliances, handheld steam cleaners provide a convenient solution for maintaining a hygienic environment. 

Steam Mops

Similar to stick vacuums, these steam cleaners are utilized for mopping floors. They are designed for ease of use, providing a convenient and chemical-free solution to remove dirt and grime from floors. Steam mops offer a hygienic and efficient way to achieve a sparkling clean finish on hard floors in your home.

Canister Steam Cleaners

Canister steam cleaners are versatile cleaning devices that use the роwer оf steam to tackle various surfaces, from floors to upholstery. Recommended for large-scale cleaning, they produce higher pressure and feature larger water tanks. They are often equipped with various attachments for cleaning different surfaces.

What Are the Benefits of Steam Cleaning?

Steam cleaning is versatile and applicable to a range of surfaces, such as upholstery, curtains, carpets, floors, tiles, metal fixtures, countertops and sinks, BBQ grills, recycling bins, and more. For upholstery and textiles, steam cleaning is mostly used for sanitizing because it has no effect on removing stains.  Steam proves to be an effective method for mattress cleaning and sanitizing, particularly in the elimination of bed bugs. For hard surfaces, steam cleaning is good for breaking up grease and embedded dirt which can then be wiped away.  

It Kills 99.99% Percent of Bacteria, Molds, and Viruses

The high temperature and pressure employed in steam cleaning not only dislodge dirt but also contribute to the elimination of 99.99% of bacteria, molds, and viruses. This powerful combination ensures a thorough and effective sanitization process, promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.

Cleans Without using Harsh Chemicals

Steam cleaning stands as a cleaning method that operates without the need for harsh chemicals. Steam cleaners can be employed on their own without the addition of cleaning agents, making them the safer choice for individuals with allergies or asthma triggered by cleaning substances. This natural and chemical-free approach not only ensures a thorough cleaning but also promotes a healthier environment in homes and workplaces. 

Safe for your Family and the Environment

Steam cleaners are highly effective in sanitizing surfaces without emitting harmful chemicals into the environment. Many upholstery cleaning companies in NYC use prefer this green cleaning and sanitizing method as it enables them to meet the demands of all customers and have a reduced impact on the environment.

Disadvantages of Steam Cleaning

While steam cleaners offer numerous advantages when integrated with couch cleaning services or carpet cleaning, there are also a few downsides of this cleaning method:

Burning Hazards 

When engaging in steam cleaning, it is crucial to be aware of the burning hazards associated with this powerful method. The high temperature emitted by steam cleaners poses a risk of burns, making it imperative to handle them with care. Always keep steam cleaners out of children’s reach, emphasizing the need for caution to prevent any potential accidents or injuries. 

It can Damage Some Surfaces

Steam cleaning, although popular among homeowners and upholstery cleaning services, is not suitable for all surfaces. For instance, steam cleaning laminate floors delicate upholstery, or carpets containing viscose is not recommended. Steam can cause laminate or hardwood to swell, damage delicate fabrics, and cause viscose to shrink.

What Is an Upholstery Cleaner?

An upholstery cleaner is a piece of equipment designed to extract stains, spills, dirt, crayon marks, and all kinds of residue that need removal from upholstery, whether it be couches, mattresses, chairs, or car interior. Cleaning is generally done through some sort of extraction method, whether it be  hot water extraction or cold water extraction. Whatever water temperature, the process of extraction is essentially shooting water into the surface of the fabric then sucking it up immediately. Before the extraction process begins, its best to pre-treat the fabric with stain removers and cleansers to ensure a deep clean. 

These upholstery cleaners have various models, including vacuum cleaners equipped with motorized brushes, water extractors featuring scrubbing tools, hot water extractors, cold water extractors, and specialized tools designed for eliminating pet stains and messes. 

What Is the Difference Between the Two Types of Cleaners?

It comes down to two things. Steam cleaning vs water extraction. Steam cleaning merely shoots steam into a fabric whereas  water extraction actually rinses the fabric. You cannot effectively steam clean a stain out of a fabric. Its like steaming your dirty clothes. All you will get is a dirty piece of clothes…with no wrinkles. 

Upholstery cleaners require the use of cleaning agents whereas equipment for furniture steam cleaning relies on the power of steam only. Steam cleaners’ ability to sanitize without using chemicals makes them suitable for people and pets who suffer from allergies. Its a good way to kill dust mites and bacteria. But if you are looking to actually remove stains, for example a deep efficient couch cleaning, upholstery cleaners with extraction are necessary. 

On What Types of Furniture Can You Use Upholstery Cleaner?

Upholstery cleaners are suitable for various types of furniture, except delicate fabrics where the use of upholstery steam cleaners or hot water is not recommended. Additionally, it is advised against using water-based upholstery cleaners on viscose couches, as water may lead to shrinking and distortion of this material.

In Conclusion, What Do You Need - A Steam Cleaner or an Upholstery Cleaner?

The choice between a steam cleaner and an upholstery cleaner depends on what your object is. A steam cleaner is great for dislodging dirt and grease on hard surfaces, whereas is solely used as a sanitizing tool for upholstery. An upholstery cleaner, using water extraction, is best used to remove stains and dirt from a fabric, with the help of brushes and chemical pretreatments.  Both are effective tools, it just depends on what you are looking to achieve! 

At PristineGreen Carpet and Upholstery Cleaning, a trusted upholstery and rug cleaner NYC, we understand the complexities of upholstery cleaning. Our experts assess your unique needs and employ the right type of equipment, sparing you the expenses and hassle of acquiring and maintaining costly cleaning machines and risk of damaging your beloved furniture.  Get a free quote for your required service today!