Industrial steam cleaners have become a popular choice for efficient and effective cleaning in various industries. These powerful machines utilise high-temperature steam to sanitise and disinfect surfaces, making them ideal for tackling tough dirt, grime, and even killing bacteria. However, when it comes to delicate materials, such as fabrics, sensitive electronics, or fragile surfaces, concerns about the safety of using industrial steam cleaners arise. In the following slides, we will explore the question, “Are industrial steam cleaners safe to use on delicate materials?”. We will examine the potential risks and benefits, providing you with a comprehensive understanding to make informed decisions about cleaning delicate items.

1. ARE INDUSTRIAL
STEAM CLEANERS SAFE
TO USE ON DELICATE
MATERIALS?
By Pure Steam Cleaners

2. Introduction
• Industrial steam cleaners have become a popular choice
for efficient and effective cleaning in various industries.
• These powerful machines utilise high-temperature steam
to sanitise and disinfect surfaces, making them ideal for
tackling tough dirt, grime, and even killing bacteria.
• However, when it comes to delicate materials, such as
fabrics, sensitive electronics, or fragile surfaces, concerns
about the safety of using industrial steam cleaners arise.
• In the following slides, we will explore the question,
“Are industrial steam cleaners safe to use on delicate
materials?”.
• We will examine the potential risks and benefits, providing
you with a comprehensive understanding to make
informed decisions about cleaning delicate items.

3. The Science Behind
Industrial Steam Cleaners
• Before delving into the safety aspects, let’s briefly explore how industrial steam
cleaners work.
• These machines utilise the power of high-temperature steam, typically generated by
heating water to temperatures above 200 degrees Celsius (392 degrees Fahrenheit).
• The steam is then expelled through a nozzle or brush attachment, allowing users to
direct the hot vapour onto surfaces for cleaning.
• The high temperature of the steam plays a crucial role in the cleaning process.
• When the steam comes into contact with a surface, it transfers heat energy, effectively
loosening dirt, grease, and grime.
• Additionally, the steam’s high temperature can kill certain types of bacteria, providing a
sanitising effect.

4. ASSESSING THE
SAFETY OF
INDUSTRIAL STEAM
CLEANERS ON
DELICATE
MATERIALS

5. 1. Heat
Sensitivity
• Delicate materials often have lower
heat tolerance compared to sturdier
surfaces.
• The high temperatures produced
by industrial steam cleaners can
potentially damage or warp these
materials.
• It is crucial to refer to the
manufacturer’s guidelines or consult
cleaning professionals who specialise
in delicate materials before
attempting to clean them with a
steam cleaner.

6. 2. Moisture
Damage
• Another aspect to consider is the potential
damage caused by moisture.
• While steam evaporates quickly, the presence
of moisture can still pose a risk to delicate
materials.
• Fabrics, for example, can shrink, discolour, or
lose their shape when exposed to excessive
moisture.
• Delicate electronics may malfunction if
moisture seeps into their internal
components.
• Always consider the material’s moisture
sensitivity before using an industrial steam
cleaner.

7. 3. Surface
Integrity
• Delicate materials often have
unique surface characteristics
that can be easily damaged.
• For example, some fabrics may
have intricate weaves or delicate
embroidery that could unravel or
become distorted under the
pressure of steam.
• Similarly, fragile surfaces like
antique furniture or fine china
may have delicate coatings or
finishes that are susceptible to
damage from steam.
• Always assess the fragility and
integrity of the material’s surface
before deciding to use an
industrial steam cleaner.

8. 4. Testing in an
Inconspicuous
Area
• Before proceeding to clean delicate
materials with an industrial steam
cleaner, it is advisable to perform a
spot test in an inconspicuous area.
• By testing a small, hidden section of
the material, you can assess the
impact of steam and ensure it does
not cause any adverse effects.
• This step helps minimise the risk of
damage to the entire item.

9. 5. Seek Professional
Advice
• When in doubt, it is wise to seek professional advice.
• Cleaning specialists who specialise in delicate
materials can provide valuable insights and guidance.
• They have the necessary expertise to assess the
suitability of industrial steam cleaners for specific
materials and can recommend alternative cleaning
methods, if necessary.

10. BENEFITS OF USING
INDUSTRIAL STEAM
CLEANERS ON
SUITABLE SURFACES

11. 1. Deep Cleaning
and Sanitisation
• Industrial steam cleaners excel at
deep cleaning and sanitisation.
• The high-temperature steam
effectively penetrates porous
surfaces, eliminating embedded
dirt, grime, and bacteria.
• This makes them ideal for cleaning
tile and grout, kitchen appliances,
bathroom fixtures, and other hard
surfaces that can tolerate the heat.

12. 2. Chemical-Free
Cleaning
• One of the significant advantages of industrial steam
cleaners is that they rely solely on the power of steam.
• Unlike traditional cleaning methods that often require
the use of chemical cleaners, steam cleaning
eliminates the need for additional chemicals.
• This makes it an environmentally friendly option,
reducing the potential harm associated with chemical
residues.

13. 3. Versatility
• Industrial steam cleaners offer versatility in tackling
various cleaning tasks.
• With interchangeable attachments and nozzles,
they can be used on a wide range of surfaces,
including carpets, upholstery, hardwood floors, and
even automobile interiors.
• However, it is important to remember that delicate
materials may not be suitable for steam cleaning,
as discussed earlier.

14. 4. Time and
Cost Efficiency
• Using industrial steam cleaners can save both
time and money in the long run.
• The efficient cleaning power of steam allows
for quicker cleaning compared to traditional
methods.
• Moreover, the reduced reliance on chemical
cleaners can result in cost savings over time.

15. 5.
Environmental
Friendliness
• As mentioned earlier, industrial
steam cleaners are environmentally
friendly due to their chemical-free
cleaning approach.
• By eliminating the use of harsh
chemicals, these machines contribute
to a healthier indoor environment
and reduce the release of pollutants
into the air and waterways.

16. Conclusion
• In conclusion, the question of whether
industrial steam cleaners are safe to use
on delicate materials depends on various
factors, such as heat sensitivity, moisture
tolerance, and surface integrity.
• While industrial steam cleaners offer
many benefits for suitable surfaces,
caution must be exercised when
considering their use on delicate
materials.
• It is crucial to assess the material’s
characteristics, follow manufacturer
guidelines, perform spot tests, and seek
professional advice when in doubt.
• When it comes to delicate materials, it is
always better to err on the side of caution
and explore alternative cleaning methods
specifically designed for these surfaces.
• By doing so, you can ensure the safety
and preservation of your delicate items
while maintaining cleanliness and hygiene
in your surroundings.

17. FAQS

18. Q1. Can I
use an
industrial
steam
cleaner on
silk
clothing?
While silk is a delicate fabric, it is generally
not recommended to use an industrial steam
cleaner on silk clothing. The high
temperatures and moisture produced by
steam cleaners can potentially damage or
shrink silk fibres. It is best to refer to the care
instructions provided by the garment
manufacturer or consult a professional
cleaner who specialises in delicate fabrics.

19. Q2. Are
industrial
steam
cleaners
suitable for
cleaning
antique
furniture?
Antique furniture often features delicate
finishes and coatings that may be
susceptible to damage from steam. It is
advisable to avoid using industrial steam
cleaners on antique furniture unless you
have consulted an expert or performed a
spot test in an inconspicuous area.
Alternative cleaning methods, such as gentle
dusting or using specialised furniture
polishes, may be more appropriate for
preserving the integrity of antique pieces.

20. Q3. Can I use
an industrial
steam
cleaner on
my laptop or
other
electronic
devices?
No, it is not recommended to use an
industrial steam cleaner on electronic
devices such as laptops or other delicate
electronics. The high temperature and
moisture produced by steam can damage
the internal components, leading to
malfunctions or permanent damage. To
clean electronic devices, it is advisable to use
specialised electronic cleaning solutions or
consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for
safe cleaning methods.

21. Q4. Are
industrial
steam
cleaners
safe to use
on
hardwood
floors?
Yes, industrial steam cleaners are generally
safe to use on sealed hardwood floors.
However, it is important to ensure that the
floor is properly sealed and that the
manufacturer’s recommendations are
followed. Avoid excessive exposure to steam
in one area and ensure that any excess
moisture is promptly dried to prevent
damage to the wood.

22. Q5. Can
industrial
steam
cleaners
remove
stubborn
stains from
carpets?
Yes, industrial steam cleaners can effectively
remove stubborn stains from carpets. The
high-temperature steam helps loosen and lift
dirt and stains from carpet fibres, providing a
deep and thorough cleaning. However, it is
essential to follow the manufacturer’s
guidelines and consider the suitability of
your carpet material for steam cleaning.
Some delicate carpets may require
alternative cleaning methods to avoid
damage.
Please note that the information provided in
these slides is for general guidance purposes
only. It is always recommended to refer to
the manufacturer’s instructions or consult
cleaning specialists for specific cleaning
requirements or concerns related to delicate
materials.