How To Use Disinfectants With Steam Cleaners

When you steam clean, you may decide that you want to use a disinfectant with the steam cleaner. While this is possible with some machines, it is unsafe with others. For example, a high pressure steam cleaner can explode if disinfectants are added to them. However, even if that is the type of steam cleaner you are using, it may still be possible to use a disinfectant with it.

Step 1

Determine the type of steam cleaner you are using. This information can be found in the owner's manual. If there isn't an owner's manual available, look at the way the steam cleaner works. If the steam comes out in a powerful jet, it is a high-pressure steam cleaner. However, if it billows out, it is a low-pressure steam cleaner.

Step 2

Use only a disinfectant that is approved for use with a steam cleaner. Some disinfectants will give off toxic fumes if heated. As such, it is a good idea to only use a disinfectant that you purchase from an authorized dealer of your brand of steam cleaner. You can then add the disinfectant to the water tank of your steam cleaner (if there is a water tank) according to the manufacturer's directions.

Step 3

Consider disinfecting before and after steam cleaning. Generally, this is the preferred method of disinfecting while steam cleaning. To do this, simply spray the disinfectant on the surface and leave it for 10 minutes. You can then steam clean the area. Once you have steam cleaned it, spray the disinfectant again and wait another 10 minutes. Wipe and/or rinse it clean if needed.

Step 4

Allow the steam to disinfect. If the surface is non-porous, using the steam cleaner on it once is enough to disinfect it. However, if the surface is porous, you will need steam clean it twice to disinfect it.