However, because of the hot temperatures, these are far more likely to damage fabrics and upholstery and pose a scalding hazard.
They can be used on tile, slate, and other hard flooring or surfaces. Steam cleaners don’t use suction or additional cleaners and have a wider variety of uses. The steam lifts stains, which can then be wiped away with a cloth. The internal heating element in these machines heats water to or close to the boiling point, then forces the resulting steam through a pressurized nozzle. Steam cleaners constitute a broad category that includes canister steam cleaners, vapor cleaners, carpet cleaners, portable spot cleaners, and upholstery steam cleaners.
Most manufacturers have their own cleaning solution, and each solution may not be safe for all fabrics. Because they don’t have a heating element, there’s no risk of burning yourself with scalding water. Extraction machines are only meant for use on carpet and upholstery. Most of these machines have two tanks, which allows you to empty the dirty tank without removing the clean one. Types of spot cleaners Extraction machinesĮxtraction machines use suction, hot water, and a cleaning solution to remove spots and stains. While it can help with small stains, you’ll probably need the help of a professional for tough, ground-in stains that cover a large area. It’s important to have realistic expectations for your spot cleaner.