Best Steam Cleaners with Vacuum | Best Vacuum Steam Cleaners

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Updated on:

July 9, 2024

Top 7 Best Steam Vacuum Cleaners | 2024 Review & Comparison

Over the last decade, consumers have become more aware of the need to sanitize and thoroughly clean the surfaces in their homes. You're probably one of that crowd. Many people want cleaning methods that are eco-friendly and do not use any chemicals that could be harmful to their families as well as the local environment. The Covid-19 pandemic only further strengthened the public's desire to use cleaning methods that would kill all types of viruses, along with bacteria and other harmful organisms.  Steam vacuums are the perfect home appliance that will simultaneously clean, sanitize, and disinfect, killing more than 99% of harmful organisms.

What type of steam cleaners work the best to clean the varied surfaces inside your home. After all, you have items like kitchen appliances, upholstered furniture, mattresses, hard floors, grout, tile, windows, carpets, bathrooms, and more, not to mention outdoor surfaces like decks and patio furniture that often need a thorough cleaning. A steam vacuum cleaner will make quick work of blasting away dirt, but which is the best steam cleaner?

Key Takeaways:

  • Steam vacuum cleaners effectively clean and disinfect surfaces, killing over 99% of harmful organisms.
  • Consider factors like heating time, weight, temperature, attachments, and tank capacity when choosing a steam vacuum cleaner.
  • Top contenders are Fortador PRO Max, Fortador Volt Electra, and Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner, offering powerful cleaning and versatile features.

Table of Contents (Show)

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Introduction

How To choose vacuum steam cleaner: types, key features

Top 7 Best vacuum steam cleaners:

  1. Fortador PRO Max - heavy duty diesel steam cleaner with vacuum
  2. Fortador Volt Electra - commercial vacuum steam cleaner
  3. Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner with Vacuum
  4. HomeRight AutoRight Steam Cleaner
  5. McCulloch MC1275Vacuum steam cleaner
  6. Wagner Spraytech on Demand Steam Cleaner
  7. PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Cleaner Mop

1. Best Vacuum Steam Cleaners: Top 7 Models Reviewed & Compared

As a reliable manufacturer using cutting-edge European technology, Fortador gives you a thorough line of powerful steam cleaners with great options appropriate for home use. Take a look at our steam cleaners and the most popular and best options from around the internet, evaluating their advantages and features to determine which one best fits your needs. Our staff will be happy to set up a demonstration to show how our products workand measure up to other steam cleaners on the market. We will also answer any questions about chemical-free cleaning.

1.1 Fortador PRO Max: All-in-One Steam Vacuum Cleaner and Shampooer

vacuum steam cleaner Fortador PRO Max

Do you have a large residence that requires constant deep cleaning of floors and other surfaces? What about other tasks like detailing your cars, recreational vehicles, or even your boat? For homeowners who have frequent carpet and upholstery cleaning, the Fortador PRO Max steam cleaner is the top system to consider. This diesel-powered steam cleaner provides all-in-one features with unparalleled capabilities. You simply won't need another machine to accomplish any deep clean task. The PRO Max comes with a fantastic selection of accessories that will allow you to clean virtually any surface in your home with just water or only mild detergent if needed.

When compared with other steam cleaners, this model offers superb pressure of 20 bars / 295 PSI, allowing you to blast away with ease caked-on stains, pet accidents, and virtually any other problems you may encounter on carpets or hard floors. The PRO Max gives you the pressure needed to effectively remove dangerous bacteria, viruses, and other undesirable organisms.  it produces an outstanding 363 pounds of steam per hour. The accessories that come with this unit are outstanding. You'll get three guns, two steam guns, and a dual hose gun for shampooing and vacuum extraction. This feature will allow two or three people in your household to simultaneously work with the unit, making your cleaning job even faster.

Another outstanding feature of the Fortador Pro MAX is that it has the capability to deliver two mild detergents simultaneously to your carpet cleaning jobs. Each tank holds 1.6 gallons of your favorite mild cleaner as shampooing is frequently necessary to remove stains and ground-in dirt from soft surfaces. This unit also has an extractor that works with auto upholstery cleaner to provide a deep clean that breaks down proteins in carpet fibers to effectively remove all dirt. The extractor will also decrease drying time, getting you back to normal life more quickly.

When you want to prepare a surface or have an extreme dirt and grim situation, choose the PRO Max's wet-dry vacuum to remove debris for a more thorough deep clean. This feature alone makes it among the best carpet steam cleaners. The seven-inch touchscreen allows you to view and control all operating parameters like PSI, temperature, water detergent, and fuel levels.

To transport this machine, add on the handy cargo slider available from Fortador. Specially designed for Fortador products,  the slider easily slides into any van and can also be used to keep additional cleaning tools organized.

Learn more how to use steam cleaner for car seats cleaning

Pros:‍

  • Versatile all-in-one unit with separate modes for steam, detergent and extraction
  • Large 6.6 gallon / 25-liter water tank for long operation
  • Continious steam produced a 20 bar /295 PSI
  • Separate steam valve controls
  • Powerful vacuum extraction
  • Three hoses 30 ft(10m), plus  many additional attachments
  • Sturdy stainless steel  and aluminumdesign
  • Q‍uick heating time of 2-6 minutes

Cons:

  • Heavy weight of 395 lbs.
  • Large dimensions
  • Diesel exhaust can be uncomfortable
  • Operates at 60 dB
  • Fortador's most expensive steam cleaner

1.2 Fortador Volt Electra: All-in-One Steam Cleaner with Built-In Vacuum

steam cleaner with vacuum Fortador Volt Electra
Fortador Volt Electra electric steam cleaner with vacuum

If you want a powerful steam vacuum cleaner but don't like the idea of using diesel fuel or lugging around a heavy and bulky unit, consider the Fortador Volt Electra. The boiler, now induction heated, ensures rapid and efficient heating. This unit is another all-in-one steam cleaner that will give you exceptional capability and versatility to clean many items around your home. The Volt Electra has the same vacuum and extractor as the PRO Max along with wet-dry features combining extraction, steam, and detergent in a single machine, that a great option for using steam cleaner for bed bugs.

When you buy this carpet steam cleaner, you will get steam at a pressure of 175 PSI / 12 bar, higher than most other popular steam mops. It also has a boiler made from high-quality steel along with a large, seven-inch display that shows you all of the information you need to monitor water, detergent, temperature, and pressure. Electricity powers the Volt Electra, so all you need to do is plug it in to get started. Heating is slightly slower than with the PRO MAX, but this unit uses an ECO system that maximizes heating efficiency to deliver a constant steam flow rate. It's also much lighter so you can maneuver it more easily.

One of the best features of the Volt Electra is that it comes with lots of attachments. Buyers get a single gun for regular steam cleaning and a dual gun for carpet shampooing. Only one attachment at a time can be used during operation.

You can learn more about choosing steam cleaner for couch and furniture in this guide

Pros:

  • Fully electric steam with a compact boiler
  • Best cleaning power for electric units
  • All-in-one operation steam and vacuum extraction with shampoo
  • 3000-watt heating element
  • 1.3-gallon boiler capacity for long operation time
  • Water heats to 370 degrees Fahrenheit
  • 30-foot hose and 30-foot steam+vacuum extraction hose, plus many accessories

Cons:

  • Heavy 99-lb. weight may be difficult for some users
  • Can only accommodate one operator at a time
  • Loud operation at 150 dB with vacuum ON

1.3 Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner: Lightweight Multipurpose Machine

Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner with Vacuum
Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner with Vacuum

Dupray’s Neat Steam Cleaner is a lightweight multipurpose machine that comes with a two-year warranty and a lifetime guarantee on the boiler.  It runs on regular tap water and heats up in just seven minutes. The Neat Steam Cleaner comes with many different attachments including a specialized brush that uses say does a great job of pulling stains and dirt from carpet fibers. However, its carpet capability is limited to spot cleaning. Although this steam cleaner comes with mop pads, you can also use towels.

Although users generally like the way the Dupray Net Steam Cleaner works, the unit has a couple of quirks that can lengthen your cleaning time. Sometimes when the user presses the button to begin working, water comes out instead of steam, which shortens your work time. Another quirk is that sometimes heat escapes instead of steam, and users have to wait up to two minutes for the steam button turns green again, allowing you to continue your work.

Pros:

  • Easy to swap attachments
  • Glides easily
  • Competitively priced
  • Lifetime boiler warranty
  • Heats in seven minutes
  • 54-oz tank provides p to 50 minutes of continuous use
  • Lifetime boiler warranty, two-year general warranty
  • Built-in funnel
  • Retractable handle

Cons:

  • Steam button must be held manually during the entire cleaning process
  • Competitive price point
  • No water level indicator
  • Exterior made with plastic
  • Power cord is only 16 feet long
  • Steam hose has a 6.5-foot reach
  • Poor customer service

1.4 HomeRight AutoRight Steam Cleaner: Affordable and Versatile

HomeRight AutoRight Steam Cleaner
HomeRight AutoRight Steam Cleaner

This steam cleaner is a big hit with online shoppers because it is cheap and delivers up to 45 minutes of cleaning time along with lots of attachments that will keep your home clean.  The tank holds 40 ounces of distilled water, using pressure and high temps to keep your car and home cleaned and sanitized. The steam gun features a convenient lock that reduces hand fatigue.

The package includes 11 different attachments for various needs, along with a microfiber towel, squeegee, and other handy tools. Reviewers love it for getting tough stains out of their carpet at home as well as for detailing cars. However, some users have reported that attachments break easily.

Pros:

  • Up to 45 minutes of continuous use
  • High steam temperature at 290 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Includes 11 attachments
  • Built-in compartment for storing attachments and hoses
  • Replacement tools easily available
  • Built-in carrying handle for easy transportation
  • Backed by a two-year warranty

Cons:

  • Attachments may break easily
  • Takes eight minutes to heat
  • Only 55 PSI
  • Eight-foot steam hose
  • Sometimes steam only last 35 minutes

1.5 McCulloch MC1275 Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner: Powerful Cleaning with 18 Accessories

McCulloch MC1275
McCulloch MC1275

Another canister steam cleaner that is easy to use is the McCulloch MC1275. Equipped with a nice variety of accessories, homeowners can clean many different types of surfaces, including ceramic tile and appliances.  Its control base, which holds the boiler is sleep and compact. This machine is also quite mobile as it has wheels along with a 15.7-foot power cord and a 10-foot hose, giving it a longer reach than other comparable units. The compact size allows you to easily clean in small spaces. Users have indicated that the steam, which only reaches a temperature of 200 degrees Fahrenheit, appears to lose heat after 15 minutes of usage, making it less effective.

One of the more impressive features is the variety of attachments that include a water funnel, squeegee, triangle brush, nylon and brass brushes, a floor mop, telescoping want, multi-length adjustable hoses, and more.  However, switching between the pieces is difficult due to their low quality, making them jam easily.

Pros:

  • Lots of included attachments
  • Great mobility
  • Longer cords and hoses than similar units
  • Lightweight at 10 lbs.
  • Two-year limited warranty

Cons:

  • Attachments are poor quality
  • Low steam temperature, which often decreases during use
  • Low pressure of only 43 PSI

1.6 Wagner Spraytech 0282014 915e On-Demand Steam Cleaner: Versatile and Budget-Friendly

Wagner Spraytech 0282014
Wagner Spraytech 0282014

For people looking for inexpensive steam cleaners that are easy to use, your choices are limited. Wagner advertises this versatile steam cleaner as the ideal tool for removing wallpaper without chemicals, yet as with other units of relatively the same size,  the Sprayteach 0282014 915e has its drawbacks. For one, the manufacturer does not list the pressure at which the unit produces steam, which has a maximum temperature of 212 degrees Fahrenheit. Wagner claims that this unit will clean 20% faster than other heavy-duty units, but without stated pressure, that claim is difficult to assess. Some users have indicated that the unit is ineffective at removing mildew.

Nevertheless, this unit has some nifty features, including two steam modes and an indicator light that advises users that the machine is ready. Slightly heavier than other small machines at 13 lbs., the  Sprayteach 0282014 915e remains light enough to use on stairs and other small areas.

Pros:

  • Lots of included attachments
  • Built-in orange light will turns off when the steamer is ready for use

Cons:

  • Cord may be short in length
  • No water level indicator
  • Slow to heat at nine minutes
  • One-Year limited warranty

1.7 PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Cleaner Mop: Lightweight and Detachable

PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Cleaner Mop
PurSteam 10-in-1 Steam Cleaner

PurSteam’s 10-in-1 steam mop has thousands of five-star reviews, but this steam mop is limited in what it can do. Users love it because it is extremely lightweight, but it has a significantly smaller reservoir than other highly-rated and heavy-duty steam cleaners. That smaller reservoir also gives you a much shorter run time, so you'll have to stop frequently to refill it.  One advantage is this device detaches to become is one of the few handheld steam cleaners that are highly rated by customers. It also features three adjustable steam modes.

Pros:

  • Ready to use in just 30 seconds
  • Weighs only 2.2 pounds
  • Nice selection of attachments

Cons:

  • Runs for only 25 minutes at a time
  • Cheap construction
  • Teflon cleaning pads are small
  • Extremely noisy

best steam cleaner Fortador Volt Electra

2. Choosing the Right Steam Vacuum Cleaner

Steam cleaning may not replace daily cleaning methods, but when you are set on deep cleaning floors, removing pet stains and other cleaning tasks, steam cleaning will always do a better job than whatever you have currently on hand. Before you start shopping for a steam cleaner, think about how yu are going to use your machine.  Are you just going to use it for carpet cleaning, or do yu want to ddep clean hard floors and other surfaces? Do you want the convenience of attachments included in your purchase? These and other questions will help determine which  steam cleaners will be best for your needs. When evaluating steam mops, carpet cleaners and more, look for the following characteristics.

Types of Vacuum Steam Cleaners

The machine you choose for your home should work for its size and the tasks you want to do. Remember that the smaller the steam cleaner, the more often you will have to refill is reservoir.

Handheld Steam Vacuum Cleaners

These are the smallest, most portable, and affordable. A handheld steam cleaner is targeted for people who need to accomplish quick cleaning jobs or what to quickly get creases out of clothes. They're also convenient for cleaning curtains and small upholstery jobs, plus emergency spot removal in cars.

Steam Mops

These machines ar light weight and easy to handle. However, they are only the right option if you intend to clean floors. Note that a good quality carpet steam cleaner is usually larger and has a larger water tank. With some steam mops, you may have difficulty getting deep into carpet fibers

Cylinder Cleaners

These are also called canister steam cleaners and are larger than the previously mentioned types with bigger water tanks that you won't have to fill as often. These units usually have higher pressures than the types already covered, which gives them more significant cleaning power.

Dry Vapor Steam Cleaners

These steam cleaners are the most versatile and efficient when you need to kill viruses, bacteria parasites, and other germs that might be present. They also have higher pressure (PSI) and higher heat settings to provide steam cleaning with almost no moisture. Thus, it can also save the objects on your property from damage due to excess moisture. Unfortunately, these units are also much bigger and heavier.

3. Essential Steam Vacuum Cleaner Features

When comparing different models, evaluate the following features and how each will affect your home deep cleaning experience.

3.1 Heating Time: How Fast Does the Steam Vacuum Cleaner Heat Up?

A steam vacuum will only start working efficiently when the water is heated high enough to produce steam. The faster your steam vacuum cleaner heats, the faster you can begin working and complete your job. Heating time ranges from only five minutes in the best models to 10 minutes and more in less expensive ones.  Avoid models with a long heating time. Look for models with higher power ratings. which are expressed in watts. The higher the power rating the faster your device will heat so you can begin working.

3.2 Weight and Size: Finding the Right Balance for Easy Handling

Machines that are smaller and lighter are easy to carry and store while larger ones require more space and effort. However, larger machines are also more efficient at deep cleaning most stains and other tough jobs. The size of the water tank also plays into the size and weight, so the larger the tank, the bulkier the machine will be. At the same time, you'll fill larger machines less often, which means you will accomplish your deep clean job more swiftly, which is an important consideration in a busy household.

steam temperature

3.3 Temperature and Steam Pressure: The Impact on Cleaning Efficiency

Steam vacuum cleaners are more efficient if the heat is higher along with the steam pressure. Look for a machine that has these features as high-temperature steam vapor is more effective in killing germs and bacteria while also cleaning more deeply. You'll also want your chosen machine to maintain consistency with temperature and steam. Efficiency directly rates to consistency as you don't want a unit that loses either for no reason.  Pressure is expressed in PSI or bars.

3.4 Flow Rate: Understanding the Amount of Steam Emitted

The amount of steam emitted by steam cleaners is called the flow rate. It measures in grams per minute  (g/min). As with pressure the higher the value, the more efficient your steam cleaner will be. Some steam cleaners will allow you to adjust the flow rate according to the surface you will clean and how dirty it is.

3.5 Water Tank Capacity and Run Time: Continuous Cleaning without Interruptions

When the water in the tank runs out, you have to turn off the steam cleaner to refill it and wait once again for the water to heat. A large tank capacity will determine how long you can work continuously. The best steam cleaners will have a continuous run time of more than two hours.

3.6 Power Cable and Steam Hose Length: Ensuring Maneuverability

Cable length will greatly affect your ability to move around a room with an electric steam cleaner. The shorter the cable, the more you'll have to unplug it and find a new electrical outlet, which can greatly reduce your productive time. A longer hose will also affect your ability to get into tight spots with your steam cleaner. Always seek a machine with long cables and hoses to maximize maneuverability.

3.7 Attachments for Multi-Purpose Cleaning: Enhancing Versatility

A variety of attachments will increase the versatility of your steam vacuum cleaner, turning it from simply a carpet steam cleaner into a multi-purpose machine that can clean a variety of surfaces with only water and no harsh chemicals.  You'll want to have the following attachments to help you clean just about anything:

  • Large and small brushes, plus a triangle brush to help you get into corners
  • Detail nozzle for cleaning around faucets, toilets, tile grout, etc.
  • Squeegee for window cleaning
  • Wallpaper stripper to save you long hours spent manually stripping wallpaper

Other attachments that can increase versatility include:

  • A crevice tool
  • Extension tubes
  • Windows cleaning squeegee

You'll also want to check the quality of attachments and the ability to buy additional ones or replacements if something breaks.

3.8 Other Details to Consider: Noise Levels, Warranties, and Safety Features

Other features that can be important are ease of use, noise levels, and warranties. Larger machines, especially those powered by diesel, can be noisier. Check the warranty period and what it covers. Most well-known brands will cover the boiler, while some also provide coverage for the entire unit. Handle controls are also a nice touch as you don't have to bend down to adjust the steam flow. Finally, because seam cleaners use boiling water, check for safety features like child locks and safety valves to minimize the chance of injury.

4. Conclusion

Every Fortador steamer comes with the accessories you need to do complete clean and sanitize jobs. These accessories include high pressure washing guns, jet nozzle, hoses, detergent containers, vacuum hoses and much more.
We are ready to help you determine the best steam cleaner for your needs. We have financing options to get you going when you are ready.

5. Frequently Asked Questions About Steam Vacuum Cleaners

How do commercial steam cleaners work?

A: Water is heated by electric power or burning of fuel inside the boiler and forced out as pressurized steam through a hose and gun with nozzle, brush, or other attachment. The dry vapor loosens dirt and kills dust mites, mold, staph, and other allergens and harmful bacteria.

What is an industrial steam cleaner?

A: Industrial steam cleaners are essentially larger steam cleaning equipment, capable of a much higher heat and pressure. The machines can vary from 230volt, 3kW to 3Phase machines or with Diesel burner well in excess of 54kW and the higher the wattage, the more powerful the heating element and the larger the boiler, Diesel steamers need only 120V power source for electronic components, but burning of diesel makes steamer equal to 50KW of power

Where does the dirt go when you steam clean?

A: When steam cleaning, the dirt does't "go anywhere". Instead, the dirt is broken down by the steam heat from vapor, but remains in the area. To remove the loosened dirt from the area, you need to manually wipe it with a microfiber towel, vacuum or mop.

Can I put vinegar in my steam cleaner?

A: To kill offensive odor smell present in your car, carpet, upholstery, and other furnishings quickly, fill your steam cleaner's solution reservoir with a 1:10 solution of white distilled vinegar and the remainder with water. Do not add a soup solution. The vinegar and hot water solution will neutralize the odor and remove it. Also vinegar can be used for descaling.

Can you steam clean windows?

A: Yes, absolutely, we have full guide and video how to use steam for windows cleaning without any chemicals.

Can i use steam vacuum steam cleaner for auto detailing.

Definetely vacuum steam cleaner is the best tool for auto detailing, learn more in this guide of choosing best steamer for auto detailing

About the Authors

Sabrina Tretyakova
In the world of cleanliness and hygiene, Sabrina Tretyakova stands as a beacon of expertise and dedication. As an ISSA-certified cleaning technician, Sabrina brings a wealth of knowledge and three years of unwavering commitment to her profession. Having served a staggering 1,200 clients
Kris Traczynski
As the visionary behind Fortador Steamers, I've revolutionized the cleaning landscape across both the USA and Europe. With a profound understanding of the cleaning industry, I've fostered expertise that sets new standards. My journey is one of innovation, commitment, and a relentless pursuit of exce

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