Ask Mrs. Clean: House Cleaning, Stain Removal and Organizing Tips

[stillsue]

I'm confused about vapor steam cleaners and vapor steam extractors - Is it necessary to have an extractor to pull out the vapor and whatever it's loosened up? For example, for cleaning grout it seems like an extractor function would be needed, but I don't have any experience with either the regular cleaner or the extractor. I'd like to find a machine that would be good for floors and grout - my home is almost entirely hardwood, some ceramic, only the stairs have carpet. Is there a homeowner grade machine that isn't as expensive as the commercial/professional grade machines? Are these less expensive steam mops as good for light use as something more expensive? My main purpose would be the floors and the grout but some of the videos I've seen online are amazing, they clean everything with it, and it looks so easy! I have neck, shoulder and back issues so anything I can do to make cleaning easier on my body is worth it.

[mrscleannw]

Hello stillsue,

You are right about needing an extractor for your cleaning the grout.

Vapor steam cleaning will disinfect and loosen dirt on most surfaces and when cleaning tile floors it may help lift the dirt but won't extract it enough to thouroughly clean the grout.

Sears and Wal-Mart carry steam cleaners as well as online stores. For home use the pricing can go as high as $1,400 depending on the brand, accessories that come with your machine, and quality.

It sounds as if you have done your research and it's just a matter of choosing the one you want.

Let us know how it goes.

Mrs. Clean