If you have carpets in your home, you know how hard it can be to keep them clean and fresh. Vacuuming alone is not enough to remove all the dirt, dust, stains, and odors that accumulate over time (And dust mites! Ew!). That’s why you need a handheld steamer to deep-clean your carpets and make them look like new.
A handheld steamer is a device that uses hot water and hot steam to loosen and remove dirt from carpets and other surfaces. It’s easy to use, portable, and effective for cleaning small areas or spot-treating stains. Unlike traditional carpet steam cleaners, handheld steamers are lightweight and compact, so you can store them easily and use them anywhere in your home.
Here, we’ll show you how to clean carpets with a handheld steamer in a few simple steps. We will also share some tips on how to choose the best handheld steamer for your needs, how to maintain it properly, and how to avoid common mistakes that can damage your carpets or your steamer. By following our advice, you will be able to enjoy clean and fresh carpets without spending a lot on professional carpet cleaners.
How to Clean Carpet with Handheld Steamer: Step by Step
Before you start cleaning your carpet with a handheld steam cleaner, you need to prepare the area and the device. Here are the steps you need to follow:
- Vacuum the carpet thoroughly. This will remove any loose dirt, dust, hair, or debris that can clog the steamer or interfere with its performance. Vacuuming also helps to fluff up the carpet fibers and make them more receptive to the steam.
- Pre-treat any stains or spots on the carpet. You can use a commercial stain remover or a homemade solution of vinegar and water. Spray the carpet stains lightly and let it sit for a few minutes before blotting it with a clean cloth. Do not rub or scrub the stain, as this can spread it or push it deeper into the carpet.
- Fill the water tank of the handheld steamer with distilled water. Distilled water is recommended because it does not contain any minerals or impurities that can leave residues on your carpet or damage your steamer. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how much water to use and how to attach the tank to the device.
- Attach the appropriate nozzle or attachment to the steamer. Depending on the model of your handheld steamer, you may have different options for cleaning carpets. Some steamers come with a carpet glider that allows you to glide the steamer over the carpet without touching it. Others have a brush attachment that helps to agitate and lift dirt from the carpet fibers. Choose the one that suits your carpet type and condition best.
- Plug in the steamer and turn it on. Wait for a few seconds until the indicator light shows that the steamer is ready to use. Some steamers have adjustable settings for steam intensity or temperature, so you can choose the one that works best for your carpet.
- Start steaming the carpet from one corner and work your way across the room in sections. Move the steamer slowly and evenly over the carpet, making sure not to miss any spots or overlap any areas. Do not stay too long in one spot, as this can overwet or scorch the carpet.
- Blot any excess moisture from the carpet with a clean towel or cloth. You want to avoid leaving your carpet too wet, as this can cause mold, mildew, or odors to develop. You can also use a fan or a dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.
- Enjoy your clean and fresh carpet!
Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning Carpet with Handheld Steamer
- Using tap water instead of distilled water. Tap water contains minerals and impurities that can leave residues on your carpet or damage your steamer. It’s also important to note that some manufacturers may require the use of distilled water or other type in their devices, so it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Using too much steam or heat. Too much steam or heat can overwet or scorch your carpet, causing discoloration, shrinkage, or damage to the carpet fibers. Always use the lowest setting possible for your carpet type and condition, and do not stay too long in one spot.
- Using detergents or chemicals. Detergents or chemicals can interfere with the effectiveness of the steam, leave residues on your carpet, or damage your steamer. Steam alone is enough to clean and sanitize your carpet without any additives.
- Steaming dirty or stained carpets. Steaming dirty or stained carpets can spread the dirt or stain deeper into the carpet fibers, making it harder to remove later. Always vacuum and pre-treat your carpets before steaming them.
- Steaming wet carpets. Steaming wet carpets can cause mold, mildew, or odors to develop in your carpet or your steamer. Always make sure your carpets are completely dry before steaming them.
Additional Tips on Steam Cleaning Carpets
- When using a commercial stain remover or even a homemade solution for pre-treating stains, it’s always recommended to do a patch test of any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the carpet before using it on the whole thing.
- While steam can kill many common household germs and bacteria, there are some pathogens that may not be completely eradicated by steam alone. Additionally, steam cleaning may not be sufficient to remove all stains, especially those that are oil-based or deeply set.
- It’s always important to check the carpet manufacturer’s recommendations and warranty information before using any cleaning method or product on your carpet. Some carpet warranties may be voided if certain cleaning methods or products are used.
Tips on How to Choose the Best Handheld Steamer for Your Carpet
There are many handheld steamers available on the market, but not all of them are suitable for cleaning carpets. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best handheld steamer for your carpet:
- Size and weight: You want a handheld steamer that is easy to carry and maneuver around your home. Look for a lightweight and compact model that fits comfortably in your hand and does not strain your arm or wrist.
- Power and performance: You want a handheld steamer that can produce enough steam and heat to effectively clean your carpet without damaging it. Look for a model that has at least 1000 watts of power and can reach high temperatures of at least 200°F (93°C). Also, check how long it takes for the steamer to heat up and how long it can run on a full tank of water.
- Features and accessories: You want a handheld steamer that comes with useful features and accessories that make cleaning easier and more efficient. Look for a model that has a continuous steam function, a safety lock, an ergonomic handle, a long cord, an indicator light, and an easy-to-fill water tank. Also look for a model that comes with different nozzles or attachments for cleaning carpets, upholstery, curtains, mattresses, and other surfaces.
- Reviews and ratings: You want a handheld steamer that has positive reviews and ratings from other users who have tried it on their carpets. Read the customer feedback and testimonials to see how the steamer performs, how easy it is to use and maintain, and how durable and reliable it is. You can also check the ratings and rankings from reputable websites or magazines that test and compare different handheld steamers.
How to Maintain Your Handheld Steamer Properly
To keep your handheld steamer in good condition and extend its lifespan, you need to maintain it properly. Here are some tips on how to do that:
- Empty the water tank after each use. Do not leave water in the tank for too long, as this can cause bacteria, mold, or mineral deposits to build up. Rinse the tank with clean water and let it dry completely before storing it.
- Clean the nozzle or attachment regularly. Remove any dirt, hair, or lint that may be stuck on the nozzle or attachment. You can use a small brush or a damp cloth to wipe it clean. Do not use any harsh chemicals or abrasives that can damage the nozzle or attachment.
- Descale the steamer periodically. Depending on the hardness of your water, you may need to descale your steamer every few months to remove any mineral deposits that can clog or corrode the device. You can use a commercial descaler or a homemade solution of vinegar and water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to descale your steamer safely and effectively.
- Store the portable steam cleaner properly. Keep the steamer in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Do not expose it to direct sunlight, heat, or moisture. Do not wrap the cord around the device, as this can damage the cord or the steamer.
FAQs: How to Clean Carpet with Handheld Steamer
How often should I steam my carpets?
It depends on how much traffic and dirt your carpets get, but generally speaking, you should steam your carpets at least once every six months to keep them clean and fresh.
Can I use a handheld steamer on any type of carpet?
Most handheld steamers are safe to use on most types of carpets but always double-check the owner’s manual to make sure.
How long does it take for my carpets to dry after steaming them?
It depends on how much steam you use, how humid the environment is, and how well you blot the excess moisture from your carpets. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a day for your carpets to dry completely after steaming them.
Can I use a handheld steamer on other surfaces besides carpets?
Yes, you can use a handheld steamer on other surfaces besides carpets, such as upholstery, curtains, mattresses, tiles, grout, windows, mirrors, and more. Just make sure you use the appropriate nozzle or attachment for each surface and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
What if I have stubborn stains, paint, or pet urine on my carpet?
Check out our other carpet cleaning post for when you need a deep cleaning in regard to those.
Conclusion
Cleaning carpets with a handheld steamer is a great way to keep your carpets clean and fresh without spending a lot of money or time. By following our guide and tips above, you will be able to choose the best handheld steamer for your needs, use it correctly and safely, and avoid any common mistakes that can damage your carpets or your device.