Steam Cleaners: Expert and User Reviews

Our AssessmentMost of the canister steam cleaners sold at Amazon.com receive a similar overall rating of about 4 stars out of 5. However, the McCulloch MC-1275 is a standout in that it has accumulated more than 500 reviews, which is hundreds more than the Wagner 905 (now discontinued), Wagner 915 and Steamfast SF-275. The high-end White Wing Steamer receives an overall rating of 4.6 stars from about a dozen owners. The handheld steam cleaners receive a lower rating overall than canister models, particularly the Shark Portable Steam. The three top-rated handheld models are the Haan HS-20, Dirt Devil Easy Steam Hand Held and Steamfast SF-226.

Our AssessmentThis online retailer is unique in that the editors rate products on a 5-star scale and provide in-depth product descriptions. Consumers can also add their reviews of the products and provide separate ratings on quality, value, effectiveness and reliability. The Ladybug 2300 with TANCS receives a 5-star rating from both editors and customers and is named Best in Category. The less expensive WhiteWing Steamer receive a 4-star rating from editors, but 4.6 stars from about 20 owners. The Reliable Enviromate Pronto P7 is a handheld steamer that also receives a perfect 5-star rating. Most models also have a few reviews posted by owners.

Our AssessmentMost steam cleaners sold by this home improvement retailer have accumulated just a handful of owner-written reviews. The McCulloch MC1275 is the top-rated heavy-duty steam cleaner. Approximately 100 reviewers give it an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5. They agree it's a good value, but doesn't offer miraculous results. It heats quickly and works well on soap scum and mildew in the bathroom. Floors take a lot less elbow grease then with chemical cleaners, but using this steamer requires getting down on your knees or using a mop to wipe up the residual moisture and grime. Among handheld steam cleaners, the Steamfast SF-226 is top-rated with an overall rating of 4 stars from about a dozen owners.

Our AssessmentThis online retailer specializes in products that improve air quality. Most steam cleaner models only receive one or two reviews and all are very positive. The Ladybug XLT 2300 with TANCS has accumulated the most reviews, with owners saying it's worth the higher price tag because it makes cleaning less of a chore and provides better results. This site also offers steam cleaner buying advice and tips on using attachments.