Products and appliances

Steam cleaners

Steam cleaners (and mops) are useful tools in getting an additional level of cleanliness in your home. But take the proper precautions when using and storing them. 

Using a system that boils water to create steam, steam cleaners can be used on the floor, carpets, clothing, soft furnishings and other typical household products.  

Any dirt or bacteria is loosened or removed, and in the case of clothing, wrinkles are smoothed. They are also considered to be an eco-friendly alternative to more chemical-heavy ways of cleaning. 

There are three main types of steam cleaner. Handheld is good for quick spot cleaning, while mops offer deep floor cleaning. Cylinders with attachments are versatile for several different tasks and some models convert between handheld and floor use. 

Key points

  • Steam cleaners must be fitted with a UK 3-pin plug. 
  • Keep steam cleaners unplugged when not in use. 
  • Do regular checks of the plug and socket-outlet for burn and scorch marks. 
  • Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and always follow them. 

Buying a steam cleaner

  • Whichever you choose, buy from a reputable retailer rather than a third-party seller online, as the appliance may not have passed all the necessary safety checks. Make sure it is fitted with a standard UK 3-pin plug. 
  • You will find lots of online reviews of steam cleaners but don’t rely solely on these as they can be faked by unscrupulous sellers. 
  • Safety features to look for include automatic shutoff, pressure release valves, child locks, and safety caps to prevent burns, plus insulated parts, steam locks, and indicator lights, 
  • Register your steam cleaner so you can be contacted easily if there is a safety recall of your product. It’s also much easier to return a faulty item or order a repair if it’s registered. 

Using a steam cleaner safely

  • Read through the entire owner’s manual, so you are familiar with specific operational instructions. 
  • Spend a few minutes inspecting the plug and cord before use, to make sure they are in good condition. Don’t use the steam cleaner if there is any sign of damage. 
  • It is recommended to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection when using a steam cleaner, especially for close-up work. 
  • Avoid pulling the device by the cord and keep it away from sharp objects. Don’t overstretch the cord and keep the cleaner away from any open electrical points or wiring. 
  • Don’t steam clean windows on a cold day as the difference in temperature could cause the glass to crack. 
  • Ensure the steamer is unplugged when filling with water and/or detergents.  
  • Unplug when not in use and empty the water chamber after each use. 
  • Store your steam cleaner in a dry area away from sources of extreme temperature. 

ALWAYS

  • Do plenty of research first before buying.  
  • Buy a known and trusted brand from a reputable retailer. 
  • Register your steam cleaner with the manufacturer.  
  • Inspect the plug and cord before use to ensure they are in good condition. 

AVOID

  • Buying from third-party sellers online. 
  • Pulling the steam cleaner by the cord and don’t overstretch the cord. 
  • Using a steam cleaner close to any open electrical points or wiring. 
  • Using a steam cleaner if you notice any unusual smells or sounds. 

Stay safe with electrical products

Check your appliance

If you notice a burning smell, sparking, cracks or damage, or any unusual noises, switch the steam cleaner off immediately and contact the retailer and/or manufacturer. 

Check the plug

Regularly check the plug and socket-outlet for burn marks, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) or if it feels too hot to touch. If you have fuses blowing or circuit-breakers tripping when using the steam cleaner, stop using it and replace. 

Protect with an RCD

An RCD (residual current device) in your consumer unit (fusebox) protects you from electric shocks should there be a fault with the appliance. If you don’t have RCD protection, use an RCD adapter between the vacuum plug and the socket-outlet. 

Selected FAQs

If you’re unsure about an appliance or product, you’re not alone. These FAQs bring together expert advice and answers to the questions people ask us most, so you can feel more confident at home.

View all consumer faqs

It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out at the following times:

  • for tenanted properties, every 5 years or at each change of occupancy, whichever is sooner
  • at least every 10 years for an owner-occupied home
  • at least every 5 years for a business

The Landlords and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords of properties with short leases to keep the electrical wiring in repair and in proper working order. We recommend landlords arrange for periodic inspection and testing to be carried out by a registered electrician at the relevant intervals shown above.

Periodic inspection and testing of the electrics should be carried out more frequently on the places and premises listed here:

  • 3 years for a caravan
  • 1 year for a swimming pool

Periodic inspection and testing should be carried out only by electrically competent persons, such as registered electricians.

First, you need to find out whether the electrician you used is actually registered. To do this, contact the operator of the scheme they have claimed to be part of, and they will tell you whether this is the case. If they are registered, the scheme operator can guide you through their complaints procedure.

If you find out the electrician misled you and is not registered, you should report this to your local Trading Standards Department as they are breaking the law. We would also recommend that you get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out on your home; this will assess any work that has been undertaken and will act as sufficient documentation to certify that work. This needs to be carried out by a registered electrician and unfortunately will be an added cost for you.

A steam cleaner being used on an induction hob

Additional info

Steam cleaners are seen as environmentally positive because they don’t need chemical cleaners and often boast good energy ratings (such as Class A). Most models claim to use significantly less water (up to 90% less) than traditional mopping, and they are designed to heat water quickly for high-pressure steam without excessive power.

Woman using a washing machine

Has your electrical product been recalled?

Electrical products are recalled more regularly than you might think, but the response rate to a recall is often worryingly low. This means there are potentially millions of recalled electrical items still in UK homes.

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