Steam cleaners must be cleaned and maintained well for delivering good cleaning results consistently, especially when they are used regularly for various cleaning applications. While every supplier or manufacturer provides a manual for maintenance and cleaning that specific steam cleaner model, there are some basic steps you must undertake regularly to ensure your machine’s durability and performance.

Avoid Use of Chemicals for Cleaning Accessories

Most steam cleaners come with mops, towels, and brushes for enhanced and convenient cleaning. Make sure these mops and clothes are cleaned as per instructions provided in the manual. As far as possible, do not use chemicals to clean these mops and brushes because they may get absorbed by these mops and get transferred to the surface being cleaned during subsequent cleaning applications.

Keep the Tank Empty When Not in Use

The tank should be drained out after every cleaning job and allowed to air dry, especially if the user does not intend to use the machine for awhile. Presence of water in the tank may cause scaling problems and affect the performance of the system in the long term. Water contains dissolved minerals, which are left behind in the form of scales after water gets converted to steam. Machines from leading suppliers come with automatic de-scaling feature, but if you are using a regular steam cleaner, it is advisable to remove the scales before you put the machine away for use on another day. There are drain plugs available in most steam cleaners to facilitate faster and thorough draining.

De-Scaling Measures: Follow the Manual Properly

De-scaling of the boiler system is, perhaps, the only major area of maintenance associated with a steam cleaner. Do not put any other solution in the boiler tank except when you are de-scaling, for which specific solutions are available. If you use chemical cleaners, you may end up violating the warranty clause.

Manuals suggest that water softeners must also not be used in the steam cleaner’s tank. The ion exchange process in water softeners can create sodium, which is detrimental to the system and can reduce its performance, efficacy, and durability.

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