How We Pick

Questions about this page: [email protected]

How we research and rank steam cleaners, and what we do not do.

1. What we compare

• Machine class: handheld, canister or 2-in-1, matched to the size of the job.
• Run time and refills: tank size, heat-up time, and whether the machine must cool before you can refill it.
• Tools and reach: hose and cord length, brushes, fabric tools and grout tools.
• Safety record: we check CPSC recall records and say so when a model or brand has been recalled.

2. Where the information comes from

Brand specifications and manuals, independent reviews, university extension and government guidance, CPSC recall records, and trade groups such as the Tile Council of North America and the National Wood Flooring Association.

3. What we do not do

We do not run lab tests, and we do not claim to have used the products we cover. We do not accept payment or free products for placement. We do not show prices, because they change every day; you see the current price on the product page.

4. Updates

We review our picks when a product is discontinued, redesigned or renamed, and when better evidence appears. Corrections are welcome at [email protected].