Characteristically steam cleaners offer pressure levels ranging from 75-150 psi. These rugged machines do not require high pressure levels, as they make up for any cleaning power deficit due to lack of pressure with their ultra-high temperatures up to 360ºF. Therefore, for steam cleaners a pressure level of 150 psi is quite high. The use of high pressure steam cleaners allows operators to utilize the dissolving effects of steam on grime, soil, dirt, oil, and other residues while the pressure forces these residues off the surface being cleaned. The result is a clean and disinfected surface.

The use of higher temperatures has continually proved to be one of the most effective methods of cleaning. For example, when you are washing the dishes, the most effective way of removing food residues is through the use of hot water. The higher the temperature the more effective the residue removal is. The same goes for the use of high-temperature steam in cleaning virtually any surface.

Gum removal is perhaps the most significant application for the need of both high temperatures and pressure levels in steam cleaners. Through the use of a special gum removal kit that can be purchased as accessories for steam cleaners, operators can effectively remove chewing gum from virtually any hard surface at a rate of up to 500 pieces per hour. Even gum that has been stuck to hard surface for over 20 years is no match for the combined power of steam and pressure.

Cleaning windows, vehicle interiors, vehicle wheels and rims, carpets, upholstery, kitchen appliances, countertops, stainless steel, aluminum, concrete, toilets, tile, grout, mirrors, fixtures, floors, and much more can be accomplished through the use of steam cleaners. However, operators of even the greatest high pressure steam cleaners must note that these machines are not efficient for heavy applications of grease on commercial/industrial equipment, machinery, flooring, etc.

For these applications, commercial and industrial users can opt for a pressure washer producing steam at super-high pressure levels. These machines can reach up to 330ºF while achieving pressure levels of 3000 psi. This results in the ability to dissolve stubborn residues while literally blasting them away. Not only this, but like steam cleaners, these machines can sanitize and disinfect as well.

To get the most out of any steam cleaning machine, regardless of its maximum pressure level or temperature, it is essential to purchase the proper accessories for steam cleaners. Users can choose amongst nylon, brass, or stainless steel brushes. Nylon brushes are the least abrasive and best for applications on surfaces that may scratch. Brass detail brushes are slightly more abrasive, providing greater scrubbing action. And lastly, stainless steel detail brushes are the most abrasive and durable. However, when used improperly these brushes may scratch some surfaces. Additional accessories for steam cleaners include a steam iron attachment which will allow users to extend their steam cleaners to powerful steam ironing capabilities.

Keeping in mind the use of red-hot steam temperatures and the availability of a wide variety of accessories, steam cleaners are the most efficient method of cleaning for a wide variety of applications.