Floor & Steam Cleaners

Check that the floor permits the method, moisture and, where applicable, heat. Varnished wood, laminate, joints and bonded surfaces can have different restrictions even when they appear waterproof. A machine's approval for hard floors does not replace approval from the flooring manufacturer. If the finish or condition is unknown, seek information before use; a discreet trial does not guarantee freedom from later damage.

A washer with separate tanks applies liquid and recovers dirty water. Check whether it accepts dry debris too or requires vacuuming first. Steam uses heat and needs the loosened dirt collected as its design specifies. If the manufacturer claims disinfection, check the surfaces, contact time and other conditions it specifies. Advertised temperature alone does not establish that result for every use. Choose for usual dirt, not a promise to replace every cleaning product.

• Use only water or solution approved for the relevant system; household detergent may foam or damage components.

A larger tank reduces some refills but increases full weight. Compare usable capacity, working weight and ease of emptying, not maximum runtime alone. On battery models, check the reference mode and charging; on steam machines, heating and safe refilling conditions. Check head width, edge reach and clearance under furniture. A lowering joint does not establish that the machine can operate completely flat.

Dirty water and a wet roller need attention after use. Self-cleaning does not mean the tank, filter and roller emerge dry or that every manual task disappears. Check removal, recommended drying and replacement roller, cloth and filter cost or availability. Descaling must follow the manual rather than an improvised recipe.

Never direct steam at people, animals or electrical components. Allow cooling and follow the manufacturer's procedure before opening pressurised tanks. Keep others off the wet floor and wait for the specified drying before walking on it. If daily care feels disproportionate for one small room, that workload belongs in the purchasing decision too.