Manage Allergies with Steam Cleaning

Having an effective cleaning strategy is essential for managing indoor allergies. Steam cleaning is one approach that uses pressurised steam to remove dirt and allergens from compatible surfaces.

When combined with other cleaning methods, it can be an effective tool for maintaining a cleaner home, particularly for allergy sufferers.

How Steam Cleaning Works

The steam cleaner’s boiler heats water to a high temperature, usually between 93°C and 148°C, until it boils and turns into steam.

The steam is then released through a nozzle or brush attachment in measured amounts. The higher the pressure, the faster the steam is released and the more effective it is at cleaning.

The steam loosens dirt and grime, and the heat kills bacteria, mould, dust mites, and other allergens. So to answer the hot question “Does steam cleaning remove allergens?”, the short answer is yes.

And because the steam is so hot, the surface dries quickly.

The Allergens Steam Cleaning Removes

Steam cleaning can remove many allergens, including the following:

1. Steam cleaning can kill dust mites and remove their waste products. A study found that steam cleaning can reduce the concentration of the allergen Der p 1 (one of the major allergens of house dust mites or HDM) by 86.7%.
2. Steam cleaning can prevent the growth of mould and mildew in the crevices of showers and tubs.
3. Steam cleaning can remove the pet dander that regular vacuuming leaves behind.
4. Steam cleaning reduces your exposure to pathogens like bacteria.

Benefits of Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning has many benefits, including the following:

1. It is highly effective in cleaning bacteria and viruses.
2. Steam cleaning is safe for people with allergies and asthma because it doesn’t aggravate allergy symptoms.
3. The high temperature of steam kills dust mites.
4. Steam cleaning is water-based and uses fewer chemicals than traditional cleaning solutions.
5. The high temperatures of steam kill mould, and attachments can access hard-to-clean places.
6. Steam can penetrate deep into fabric fibres or surface pores to loosen stains and dirt.
7. Regarding pet odours, steam cleaning can remove urine, bacteria, and odours on carpets, and dog urine stains and smells from tile and grout.

Steam Cleaning Applications in Your Home

Here are some common applications of steam cleaning that you can apply in your own home.

Floors

It is suitable for various types of floors, including tiles, hardwood, and carpets.  Using the right techniques, you can steam clean delicate floors like ceramic, marble, and wood.

1. Ceramic and porcelain tile – steam mops are effective at cleaning and sanitising these floors, including the grout.
2. Marble – steam mops can also be effective in removing dirt, but you should consider polishing the floor after it dries.
3. Hardwood – you can use steam cleaning on hardwood floors, but you should use a steam cleaner with a suction function and a thick cleaning cloth at a lower power level.
4. Laminate – steam mops should not be used on laminate floors because the moisture can cause the floor to swell and warp.
5. Painted floors – the heat from the steam can cause bubbles beneath the paint, which may then peel.
6. Engineered hardwood – you should avoid steam cleaning engineered hardwood floors because the wear layer only protects the top surface, and the adhesives used in the bonding process can be degraded by steam.
7. Unsealed floors – you should not use a steam mop on an unsealed floor.

Bathrooms

Steam cleaning is ideal for cleaning and disinfecting bathrooms. You can steam clean tiles, grout, showerheads, faucets, and toilets to remove soap scum, mould and mildew.

Kitchen

Steam cleaning can be used to clean kitchen countertops, sinks, ovens, stovetops, and other appliances. It can effectively remove grease, food particles, and bacteria and leave a hygienic kitchen.

Upholstery

Steam cleaning can also be used to clean and refresh fabric furniture, such as sofas, chairs, and mattresses. It leaves your furniture clean and fresh, getting rid of dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens.

Curtains and Drapes

You can also steam clean curtains and drapes to clean and deodorise them without resorting to harsh chemicals. It is effective for removing dust, dirt and odours.

Other Areas

It can also be used to clean windows, mirrors, car interiors, and other hard-to-reach areas.

What Not to Steam Clean?

Steam cleaning is a powerful and versatile cleaning method, but it’s not suitable for all materials and surfaces. Here are the things you should avoid steam cleaning in your home.

1. Water-sensitive materials
   1. Unsealed hardwood floors
   2. Paper and cardboard
   3. Some fabrics like silk, velvet, and suede
   4. Musical instruments
   5. Books
   6. Wallpaper
2. Electronics
3. Certain surfaces
   1. Unsealed stone like limestone and travertine
   2. Painted surfaces
   3. Antique furniture
   4. Mattresses with memory foam
4. Other items, like plants and anything extremely cold

When you’re in doubt, always test a small, inconspicuous area first before steam cleaning the entire item or surface. And if you are unsure whether something is safe to steam clean, consult the manufacturer’s instructions or a professional cleaning service.

Tips for Reducing Allergens at Home

Here are some important tips to significantly improve indoor air quality and provide relief for those suffering allergic reactions.

1. Dust mites are a common allergen, so dust all surfaces weekly with a damp cloth to prevent dust from becoming airborne.
2. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery at least once a week using a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap small particles.
3. Wash sheets, pillow cases, and blankets in hot water (at least 55°C) to kill dust mites.
4. Wash or dry-clean curtains and blinds regularly to remove dust and pollen.
5. Keep indoor humidity below 50% to discourage dust mites and mould growth.
6. Use exhaust fans to remove moisture after showering or cooking.
7. Repair water leaks to avoid mould.
8. If possible, choose hardwood, tile or laminate flooring, which are easier to keep clean and don’t trap allergens like carpets do.
9. If you have carpets, choose low-pile carpets or washable rugs.
10. Steam clean carpets regularly to remove dust mites, pet dander, and other allergens embedded deep within the fibers.
11. Bathe your pets weekly to reduce dander.
12. Keep pets out of the bedroom to minimise allergens in your sleeping area.
13. Wash pet bedding in hot water to remove dander and other allergens.
14. Other important measures you can do:
    1. Use air purifiers with HEPA filters
    2. Reduce the clutter to reduce the allergens
    3. Change HVAC filters regularly
    4. Use dust-mite-proof covers for pillows, mattresses, and box springs
    5. Change clothes and shower after spending time outdoors

Conclusion

DIY steam cleaning is possible, but you should consider the initial investment and expertise needed. Quality equipment can be expensive to purchase and maintain. Also, different surfaces require specific techniques and temperature settings to avoid damage, making professional knowledge valuable.

If you’re interested in professional steam cleaning services, KungFu Helper provides comprehensive house cleaning services, including part-time cleaners in Singapore, carpet care, upholstery maintenance, and post-renovation cleaning.

Feel free to reach out for a consultation to discuss your cleaning needs.