Steam cleaning: how does it work and what are the benefits?
As a supplier of cleaning and hygiene solutions, we've seen a surge in demand for disinfectants. And this makes sense, given that these are proven tools in fighting microorganisms like viruses, bacteria, and pathogens. Where unwanted bacteria may survive, steam cleaning also offers a solution because steam disinfects surfaces. Steam cleaning provides an effective method of surface disinfection.
How does steam cleaning work?
Steam cleaning requires only a very short contact time. The 'thermal shock' rapidly kills bacteria and microorganisms (disinfection), and user error is virtually eliminated. When using chemicals combined with disinfectants, the required contact time is generally much longer (30 seconds to 10 minutes), and the risk of user error is significantly higher. When using chemical products, you also have to remove the residue left behind afterward. Steam cleaning addresses three aspects of cleaning and disinfection in a single step: breaking down dirt, removing it, and disinfecting.
The various uses of steam cleaning
Floors, tiles, machines, equipment, kitchens, beds, and medical supplies can be cleaned thoroughly and efficiently. Stubborn stains (deep cleaning) and porous surfaces can easily be cleaned and disinfected with steam.
One of the main benefits of steam cleaning is undoubtedly its ability to access to areas that were previously difficult to reach. This includes things like the base of faucets, corners around toilets, bathrooms, kitchens, and more.
What's more, steam cleaning is particularly effective in areas where dirt tends to build up over time, as residue often gets pushed into nooks and crannies. The nozzle of the steam cleaner can now reach almost any spot. Steam cleaning does not remove limescale on its own, but when combined with an acid, it speeds up the limescale dissolution process (in which case safety precautions should be taken).
The benefits of steam cleaning
#1 Disinfectant effect
Dry steam at a temperature between 140°C and 185°C (boiler temperature, with nozzle output between 104°C and 108°C for dry steam) is a modern and eco-friendly method for cleaning dirty surfaces. The pressure, combined with heated water, ensures effective cleaning and disinfection.
However, it's essential to work with high-quality steam. This means the steam must be 95-96% dry, with minimal water droplets. Only then will the machine deliver optimal performance. The higher the boiler pressure, the drier the steam, and hose length also matters, as it affects how much the steam cools.
#2 Reduced water consumption
Steam cleaning uses significantly less water for high-quality results than pressure washing. While pressure washers rely on hydraulic force, steam cleaners rely much more on actually breaking the dirt down. In effect, the dirt disintegrates. Steam cleaning also causes far less damage to surfaces than pressure washing. As a result, the overall quality of the cleaning is higher compared to other methods.
#3 Sensitive surfaces
The high temperature of the steam, combined with a variety of steam cleaner accessories, allows for effortless cleaning of hard-to-reach areas. Because the steam contains very few water droplets, it's also suitable for cleaning electrical components and control panels.
Also, steam doesn't affect surfaces in the way that chemicals do, which helps maintain a higher quality finish on certain types of floors. For example, you can use natural stone, a natural product that can best be cleaned with a natural product, namely steam.
#4 Minimal use of chemicals
Steam cleaning can reduce chemical use by up to 80%, and can even eliminate it entirely compared to traditional cleaning methods. Since (virtually) no chemicals are used, groundwater remains free of contamination.
The process is effective, safe, and offers an ideal cleaning solution for organizations aiming to support a circular economy or move toward zero-waste operations. On top of that, steam is safe for users and can improve job satisfaction.
#5 Cost savings
All in all, purchasing a steam cleaner can be cost-effective. However, it's important to follow a well-designed work plan to achieve such savings. The benefits include reduced labor costs, lower water consumption, less wear and tear, fewer chemicals, fewer hazardous waste materials, and above all, better cleaning results. What's more, implementing a well-thought-out cleaning and disinfection plan that includes steam can be a valuable asset to any CSR strategy.
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