Steam Cleaners have emerged as indispensable tools for modern homes, celebrated for their versatility and effectiveness in tackling a wide array of cleaning tasks. From refreshing carpets and sanitizing grout to degreasing kitchen appliances and revitalizing upholstery, a good steam cleaner can significantly reduce your reliance on harsh chemicals, offering a more eco-friendly and health-conscious approach to home maintenance. With a plethora of models available, each boasting different features and capabilities, finding the ideal steam cleaner for your needs can be daunting. That’s why we’ve rigorously tested 19 steam cleaners in The Lab and in real home environments, evaluating their performance across various cleaning challenges. We assessed canister steam cleaners, steam mops, and versatile multi-tools from leading brands like Dupray, Bissell, and PurSteam to bring you our top recommendations.
Our testing process revealed that while no single steam cleaner is flawless, several models stand out for their exceptional performance, user-friendly design, and value. Whether you’re seeking a powerhouse for deep cleaning or a convenient mop for quick floor maintenance, our curated list highlights the best steam cleaners to help you achieve a truly spotless home. Consider pairing your steam cleaner with other essential cleaning tools like a quality vacuum cleaner or an effective stain remover for comprehensive cleaning results.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner at Amazon $150
Best Value:
SALE
Ewbank Steam Dynamo Steam Cleaner at Amazon $130 $99
Best for Detailed Cleaning:
McCulloch Heavy Duty Steam Cleaner at Amazon $150
Best Steam Mop:
SALE
PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Mop at Amazon $100 $60
Best Starter:
Bissell PowerFresh Slim Steam Mop at Amazon $165
Best Overall
Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson
$150 at Amazon $200 $150 at Walmart $150 at Home Depot
What We Like:
- Easy attachment swapping for different cleaning tasks
- Portable and effortlessly glides across surfaces
- Compatible with any cloths or towels for convenience
- Clear visual indicator for heating status
What We Don’t Like:
- Lacks a water level indicator
The Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner distinguishes itself as an exceptionally user-friendly and efficient steam cleaner, making it our top pick overall. This canister steam cleaner excels in versatility, adeptly handling a wide range of cleaning tasks, from stubborn carpet stains and grimy grout lines to delicate window sills and various household messes. In our rigorous lab tests, the Dupray Neat consistently outperformed competitors in stain removal across different surfaces. It was notably the fastest among canister models in eliminating a dried mud mask from a grouted tile floor, showcasing its powerful steam output and efficient cleaning action.
Operating the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is straightforward. After filling its generous 40-ounce tank, a front-panel icon illuminates orange to signal heating initiation. While the 12-minute warm-up time slightly exceeds the manufacturer’s claim, it aligns with the average heat-up times of other top-performing steam cleaners we tested. Once heated, the icon turns green, indicating readiness for use. Steam is easily controlled via a single trigger, allowing for on-demand steam release precisely where needed.
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The precision lance attachment of this steam cleaner stood out in our tests, particularly when tackling dirt and grime embedded in window sills. Its performance mirrored that of a mini pressure washer, effectively blasting away stubborn buildup. While you’ll need a cloth to wipe away the dislodged grime, this process is significantly less labor-intensive than manual scrubbing.
The Dupray Neat also impressed us with its ability to remove sticky residues like Jolly Rancher candy from glass surfaces. Despite lacking a dedicated scraper attachment, the included squeegee proved effective in pushing the candy residue cleanly off the glass.
For carpet stain removal, the triangular attachment with a microfiber bonnet performed admirably. Furthermore, the attachments are designed for quick and easy swapping, a feature not consistently found in all tested models.
Mobility is enhanced by the wheels at the base of the canister and a 6.5-foot hose providing ample reach. However, hose storage is a minor drawback as there’s no dedicated on-board location. A significant advantage of the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner is its compatibility with standard towels or cloths, eliminating the need for proprietary cleaning pads and reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 11.2 pounds (empty), 13.8 pounds (full)
- Tank Capacity: 54 ounces
- Cord Length: 16 feet
- Heat Time: 12 minutes
Best Value
Ewbank Steam Dynamo Steam Cleaner
PHOTO: The Spruce
$130 $99 at Amazon $140 at Walmart $111 at Wayfair
What We Like:
- Operates at a relatively quiet noise level
- Offers both single and continuous steam settings
- Notably lightweight for easy handling
What We Don’t Like:
- No water level indicator
- Shorter 8-foot power cord
The Ewbank SC1000 Steam Dynamo truly lives up to its name, delivering powerful steam cleaning capabilities at an exceptional value. This multi-tool steam cleaner efficiently tackled every mess we presented it with during testing. From dirty window sills and muddy grout to hard water stains on faucets, butter on oven doors, and even dried candy and water spots on glass, the Ewbank Dynamo removed them all swiftly and effectively. Similar to our top pick, some residue might be displaced during cleaning, necessitating a microfiber cloth for a final wipe-down to achieve a pristine finish.
Ease of use is a hallmark of this steam cleaner. Filling the water tank is simple thanks to an included funnel, although a water level indicator is absent. The machine features intuitive indicator lights: a red light signals power on, while an orange light turning off indicates steam readiness. The unit also operates quietly, a welcome feature during extended cleaning sessions.
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Attachment changes are facilitated by a user-friendly adapter compatible with all accessory tools. While gloves are generally recommended for steam cleaner attachment swaps due to potential heat, we found the Ewbank’s plastic components remained at comfortable temperatures, eliminating the immediate need for hand protection during changes.
A standout feature is the steam control, offering both a single steam burst and a continuous steam option, the latter being ideal for tackling larger messes. The Ewbank Steam Dynamo Steam Cleaner is also remarkably lightweight, comparable to our top lightweight vacuum cleaner recommendations, enhancing its maneuverability.
While the wheeled base contributes to easy movement, the 8-foot power cord is a limitation. It may restrict your cleaning radius and necessitate frequent outlet changes, which could be inconvenient for larger spaces.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 7.8 pounds (empty), 11.3 pounds (full)
- Tank Capacity: 50 ounces
- Cord Length: 8 feet
- Heat Time: 11.5 minutes
Best for Detailed Cleaning
McCulloch Heavy Duty Steam Cleaner
PHOTO: The Spruce Home / Henry Wortock
$150 $143 at Amazon $175 $150 at Walmart $150 at Kohls.com
What We Like:
- Integrated accessory storage for convenience
- Offers multiple steam intensity settings
- Comes with an extensive set of 18 accessories, including extra brushes and pads
What We Don’t Like:
- Steam lock button not consistently reliable
- Some components can become very hot, requiring gloves for handling
- Heaviest model on our list when empty
The McCulloch Heavy Duty Steam Cleaner immediately impressed our team, prompting spontaneous “must-buy” reactions due to its exceptional performance. Its effectiveness highlighted how traditional cleaning methods can be unnecessarily strenuous compared to the ease and power of steam cleaning. This steam cleaner excels at detailed cleaning tasks, making it ideal for users who value precision and thoroughness.
Filling this steam cleaner is facilitated by a measuring cup and funnel, minimizing spills. We measured 48 ounces of water for optimal use. While it is the heaviest empty steam cleaner in our selection, the weight difference when full is less significant. Moving it still requires some physical effort, but its cleaning power justifies the slight heft.
Attachment changes are straightforward; a push-button latch allows for easy slide-on and slide-off adjustments. Due to potential heat buildup in some metal accents, we recommend using gloves when swapping attachments to ensure safety and comfort.
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We were pleasantly surprised by the controlled spray pressure of this steam cleaner. Unlike some other models, including our top pick, the McCulloch Heavy Duty Steam Cleaner minimized mess during operation. Cleaning felt efficient and quick, with a noise level low enough to allow for conversation while in use. While one tester noted slightly less pressure compared to other models, the cleaning results remained consistently excellent.
The extensive array of included accessories, totaling 18, is a major highlight, making this machine exceptionally suited for detailed cleaning. You receive multiple brush sizes, pad styles, and nozzles, enabling you to effectively clean everything from bathroom faucets to tile floors.
Similar to our best value pick, the McCulloch offers both button-controlled and continuous steam spray. However, we observed that the steam lock button was not consistently reliable, which may be a point of consideration for potential buyers of the McCulloch MC1275 Steam Cleaner.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 13.4 pounds (empty), 14.6 pounds (full)
- Tank Capacity: 48 ounces
- Cord Length: 15.7 feet
- Heat Time: 12.5 minutes
Best Steam Mop
PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Mop
PHOTO: The Spruce / Dera Burreson
$100 $60 at Amazon $93 at Walmart View on Pursteam.com
What We Like:
- Alerts user when the water tank is empty
- Machine washable cleaning pads
What We Don’t Like:
- Mop head can flip over sticky stains
For those prioritizing floor cleaning, the PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Mop stands out as an exceptional choice. While we’ve detailed other excellent steam mops in our best steam mops guide, the PurSteam 10-in-1 distinguishes itself by offering versatility beyond just floor cleaning, rivaling traditional steam cleaners.
This top-rated steam mop includes attachments that enable it to function as a window washer or handheld steamer, making it a truly multi-functional cleaning tool. It heats up in under 30 seconds and features a comfortable handle, enhancing usability. In tests, it effectively cleaned stains from tile and concrete, and the attachments facilitated detailed cleaning in grout lines and tight corners. A practical feature is the water tank alert, which uses beeps and vibrations to signal when it’s running low.
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The wide mop head efficiently covers large floor areas, speeding up cleaning tasks. While the mop head occasionally faltered on sticky substances like chocolate syrup, the handheld mode excelled at removing water stains from bathroom glass surfaces. It did struggle with hard candy stuck to glass, but considering its overall strong performance and versatility, this minor flaw is easily overlooked.
Maintenance is simplified by the easily changeable and machine washable cloth mop heads. Priced around $100, the PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Mop Cleaner offers exceptional value and versatility, rivaling our top canister steam cleaner picks. Frequent discounts, especially during major sales events, make it an even more attractive option.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 5.7 pounds (full)
- Tank Capacity: 12.8 ounces
- Cord Length: 15.9 feet
- Heat Time: 30 seconds
Best Starter
Bissell PowerFresh Slim Steam Mop
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PHOTO: The Spruce / Katie Begley
$165 $156 at Amazon $156 at Walmart View on Boscovs.com
What We Like:
- Highly effective attachments for various cleaning tasks
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver design
- Convenient and mess-free water tank filling
What We Don’t Like:
- Attachments become very hot after use
- Lacks a steam lock setting
The Bissell PowerFresh Slim Steam Mop is an excellent entry point into steam cleaning, perfectly balancing simplicity with powerful cleaning performance. Like our best steam mop pick, it functions both as a steam mop and a versatile handheld steam cleaner. Its compact design is ideal for easy storage in cleaning closets, and its user-friendly operation makes it well-suited for typical household cleaning needs. It’s effective for sealed floors, window tracks, and removing stuck-on messes from tile floors.
It heats up rapidly in just 28 seconds, allowing for quick cleaning initiation. However, the attachments get quite hot during use, requiring caution and potentially gloves for safe handling and attachment changes post-use.
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Water tank management is exceptionally convenient with the Bissell PowerFresh Slim Steam Mop. It’s unique among our picks for featuring a transparent water reservoir, allowing users to easily monitor the water level. The wide-mouth reservoir simplifies filling, whether using the included measuring cup or filling directly, minimizing spills and mess.
Indicator lights clearly display heating status and selected steam mode (high, low, or pause). The steam trigger requires continuous holding during operation, as there is no lock setting. While a lock setting is often preferred, the Bissell PowerFresh Slim Steam Mop remains a powerful and practical choice from a trusted brand, ideally suited for apartments or first homes seeking an efficient and easy-to-use steam cleaner.
Key Specifications:
- Weight: 6 pounds (empty), 6.8 pounds (full)
- Tank Capacity: 11.8 ounces
- Cord Length: 25 feet
- Heat Time: 28 seconds
Final Verdict
Our top recommendation for the best steam cleaner is the Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner. Its impressive cleaning performance and ease of use set it apart. For those new to steam cleaning, the Bissell PowerFresh Slim Steam Mop is an excellent starter option, effective for both floor cleaning and versatile handheld steaming for appliances, sinks, and fixtures.
The Spruce
How We Tested and Picked the Steam Cleaners
To identify the best steam cleaners available, we conducted rigorous testing of 19 models over 12 hours in The Lab. Our selection included handheld, canister, and steam mop appliances, some convertible to handheld, ranging in price from $30 to $550. Our five top picks range from $95 to $200, representing the best balance of performance and value.
We extended our testing to real home environments to assess durability, ease of storage, and long-term performance. Returning champions were re-evaluated to ensure our initial assessments remained valid. Our lab testing process involved several key evaluations:
- Setup: We began by unboxing each steam cleaner, focusing on the water reservoir filling process and whether funnels or measuring cups were necessary.
- Effectiveness and Ease of Use: Each cleaner was tested on dirty window tracks and tile grout smeared with dried mud mask. Models with appropriate attachments were also tested on glass cutting boards with water stains.
- Design and Noise Level: We evaluated the overall design and intuitiveness of each steam cleaner, noting noise levels and the clarity of buttons and indicator lights.
- Portability: We assessed portability by moving each cleaner across various lab stations, evaluating ease of carrying or rolling, cord length functionality in different cleaning positions (standing vs. kneeling).
- Value and Comparison: We compared each steam cleaner’s performance to its price and against other tested models, considering whether it represented a worthwhile purchase based on these factors.
The Spruce
What to Look for in a Steam Cleaner
The Type of Steam Cleaner: Canister, Handheld, or Steam Mop
Steam cleaners primarily fall into three categories, each suited for different cleaning needs: canister, handheld, and steam mop.
- Canister-style cleaners are the most versatile, typically equipped with various attachments and a hose for extended reach into tight spaces. Many include wheels or straps for easy portability between rooms. Our top picks in this category include the best overall, best value, and best for detailed cleaning steam cleaners.
- Steam mops are more portable and user-friendly, ideal for homes with hard floors like tile. While primarily designed for floors, some models, like our best starter and best steam mop picks, include attachments for broader cleaning tasks beyond floors.
- Handheld steam cleaners excel in detailed cleaning of grout, ovens, and sinks, directing steam precisely to concentrated areas. Their smaller size enhances maneuverability in tight spaces. However, they are less suitable for large areas like floors unless targeting specific spills. While tested, handheld-only models did not make our top list, though some of our top picks offer handheld conversion.
Prepare for Cleanup
Regardless of the steam cleaner type, be prepared to use additional cleaning tools. Microfiber cloths were frequently used in our tests to wipe up excess water and dislodged debris, ensuring a thorough clean.
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The Spruce / Hilary Allison
What Surfaces You Can Use It On
Steam cleaners are not universally suitable for all surfaces. The combination of heat and moisture can damage certain materials.
Kathy Cohoon, Operations Manager at Two Maids & A Mop, advises caution: “Steam cleaners utilize heat and water, which can damage certain materials. Avoid porous surfaces due to potential water damage and be cautious with water-based paint or delicate materials like velvet or silk.”
While some steam cleaners can clean carpets and upholstery, always use appropriate steam settings and attachments.
Surfaces to Avoid When Steam Cleaning
Limit steam cleaner use on sealed wood, painted surfaces, or items with paper, wood, plywood, or cardboard composites. Test in inconspicuous areas first and proceed cautiously on walls or unfamiliar surfaces.
Avoid steam cleaning antiques, as heat can damage varnish or shellac finishes common in vintage items.
What Attachments and Accessories It Comes With
Common steam cleaner attachments include scrub tools, brushes, fabric steamers, crevice tools, and floor heads. Larger models often include hoses or extension wands to extend reach.
Each steam cleaner on our list includes multiple attachments, with the best for detailed cleaning offering 18. Always consult the instruction manual to understand which attachments are appropriate for different surfaces. Squeegee attachments, included with our canister steam cleaner selections, are particularly useful for window and glass cleaning.
Steam Cleaning Your Windows
Katie Berry, a member of The Spruce’s Cleaning Review Board, warns, “Steam can shatter windows on cold days.” When cleaning windows with steam, ensure it is a warm day to prevent thermal shock and potential damage.
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The Spruce
Why Trust The Spruce?
Dena Ogden, Associate Editor at The Spruce, specializes in appliances, cleaning, organizing, and home tech. Her expertise includes vacuums, storage, and cleaning supplies, with a focus on product performance, maintenance, and user effort.
For this article, Dena utilized extensive testing data from The Lab and real-world home testing experiences. She has tested numerous carpet cleaners and vacuums from brands like Shark and Bissell, providing deep insight into the steam cleaning market.
Our Experts:
After Testing 106 Carpet Cleaners, Here Are the 4 Best We Recommend
