27 Aug Is Steam Cleaning Bad for Floors?

Steam cleaning is an effective way to remove dirt, germs and grime from some types of floors. However, there are several factors that will determine if damage will be incurred. It will depend on the type of flooring, quality of installation, and how much water is involved.

Hardwood

Hardwood can be steam cleaned, but if the installation was poorly done it can damage the floor. Engineered hardwoods are created using an adhesive to bond the wood. Steam cleaning can weaken the adhesive bond and permanently damage the flooring. The same is true whether traditional steam cleaning is applied or a steam mop is used. The same is true of solid hardwoods. Sweeping or vacuuming will keep them clean and a damp mop is typically sufficient to keep floors looking good.

Laminate

Steam cleaning or a steam mop should be used on the lowest heat setting. There are steam mops on the market that are specifically designed to clean laminate flooring. It’s important that water not be left standing and the floor is dried quickly. Steam cleaning shouldn’t be part of regular maintenance and used sparingly as it can damage the floor’s seal.

Luxury Vinyl

The flooring is known for its durability, but it doesn’t like heat. Avoid using steam cleaners or steam mops on vinyl. The combination of heat, moisture and steam can ruin the flooring.

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile

The tiles themselves won’t be affected and can easily withstand the heat and water. However, the grout can be damaged and steam cleaning even has the potential to change the composition of the grout.

Carpeting

Steam cleaning has been used on carpeting for decades, but the high pressure used can damage carpet fibers. The primary problem with carpeting and steam cleaning comes from using too much water and not removing as much of it as possible. The carpet should be left as dry as possible to avoid the growth of mold and mildew.