Tired of scrubbing tough grime and relying on harsh chemicals for a clean home? A small steam cleaner might be exactly what you need! These compact powerhouses harness the natural cleaning strength of steam, sanitizing surfaces and dissolving stubborn dirt with just water. Perfect for quick clean-ups, reaching tight spots, or tackling detailed tasks, the best small steam cleaner can revolutionize your cleaning routine. We’ve put together a list of our top picks, thoroughly reviewing each one to help you find the perfect portable companion for a sparkling, chemical-free home.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Small Steam Cleaner Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. ScrubWiz Steam Mop: Detachable Handheld Steamer, fast heating, 2-level steam for versatile home cleaning.
The ScrubWiz Steam Mop stands out as a reliable assistant for all your home cleaning needs. This versatile device effectively harnesses high-pressure steam, heating up quickly to tackle dirt and grime on various surfaces. Its thoughtful design, including a detachable handheld steamer and multiple accessories, makes it incredibly convenient for comprehensive cleaning.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful high-pressure steam for deep cleaning.
- ✓ Fast heating ensures you’re ready to clean in no time.
- ✓ 10-in-1 multi-purpose accessories for ultimate versatility.
- ✓ Features a 350ml water tank for efficient cleaning sessions.
- ✓ Adjustable mop head and detachable handheld steamer for ergonomic use.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the ScrubWiz Steam Mop because it offers exceptional versatility and ease of use. It transitions seamlessly from a floor mop to a handheld steamer, making it ideal for a wide range of tasks. Plus, its chemical-free operation means a safer and healthier environment for your family and pets.
Best For
This small steam cleaner is best for households seeking a highly versatile cleaning tool that can handle both floor cleaning and detailed spot cleaning with ease and efficiency.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast heat-up time gets you cleaning quicker.
- Extensive accessory kit for diverse cleaning tasks.
- Effective at sanitizing and removing dirt from sealed hard floors.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver and assemble.
Cons:
- Smaller water tank may require more frequent refills for very large areas.
- Steam output might not be as intense as industrial-grade cleaners.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: The steam mop I bought from ScrubWiz brand works great and makes cleaning quick and easy. It heats up fast, removes dirt well without chemicals, and is lightweight and easy to assemble. Overall, it’s a good value and does great work for sealed hard floors like tile and hardwood.
Customer Review: I’ve wanted a steam mop for a long time and this one has exceeded my expectations. It heats up very quickly and leaves the floors really clean without the need to use strong chemicals. I love that it includes several accessories to clean different surfaces and corners of the house. It is practical,
2. BISSELL Little Green Max Pet: Portable Deep Cleaner for Carpet, Upholstery, and Pet Stains.
While not a traditional steam cleaner, the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet is an indispensable small portable cleaner for households with furry friends. This deep cleaner excels at tackling tough pet stains and odors on carpets and upholstery, offering a powerful alternative for specific messes. Its innovative SmartMix Technology takes the guesswork out of cleaning, ensuring a perfect solution every time.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, saving pets.
- ✓ SmartMix Technology automatically blends water and cleaning formula.
- ✓ Features 30% more powerful suction than competing portable deep cleaners.
- ✓ Specifically designed for portable deep cleaning of carpets and upholstery.
- ✓ Highly effective at removing stubborn pet stains and lingering odors.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet because it’s a game-changer for pet owners. Its superior suction power and SmartMix Technology make deep cleaning effortless and incredibly effective on pet messes. It’s a fantastic complementary tool for keeping your home pristine.
Best For
This unit is best for pet owners who need a powerful, portable solution to deep clean carpets, upholstery, and car interiors, specifically targeting tough pet stains and odors that traditional steaming might not fully extract.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional suction power for thorough stain removal.
- Automatic formula mixing simplifies the cleaning process.
- Supports a great cause with every purchase.
- Easy to clean tanks and maintain.
Cons:
- Requires specific cleaning formulas, adding to ongoing costs.
- It is a deep cleaner, not a steam cleaner, so it doesn’t sanitize with heat.
- Might be less effective on non-fabric surfaces where a steam cleaner shines.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: What an amazing little cleaner! We used today for very 1st time, and results are beyond expectations. The features work well as described. Cleanup of dirty tank is very easy. This particular model 38572 has a great feature that separates the clean water from the cleaning liquid so that you can
Customer Review: I’ve been genuinely impressed with the BISSELL Little Green Max Pet. For a portable unit, the suction and cleaning power are excellent. It does a great job pulling pet hair, stains, and odors out of carpets, upholstery, and car interiors without soaking the material.The unit is easy to set up and us
3. BISSELL Steam Shot Omni: Pressurized Handheld Steam Cleaner for Versatile Multi-Surface Cleaning.
The BISSELL Steam Shot Omni is a compact yet powerful handheld steam cleaner that has garnered viral attention for a good reason. It blasts through grime, grease, and tough messes with high-pressure steam exceeding 215°F, all without needing harsh chemicals. Its quick heat-up time and generous cord length make it incredibly efficient for various cleaning tasks.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Generates powerful, high-pressure steam over 215°F.
- ✓ Rapid 3-minute heat-up time gets you cleaning almost instantly.
- ✓ Extended 16ft power cord provides excellent reach without frequent replugging.
- ✓ 300mL water tank offers up to 10 minutes of continuous steam.
- ✓ Versatile accessories included for multi-surface cleaning.
Why We Recommend It
This BISSELL portable steam cleaner is highly recommended for its impressive power-to-size ratio and affordability. It’s a budget-friendly way to achieve a deep, chemical-free clean on countless surfaces, making it a favorite for quick sanitization and tackling stubborn spots.
Best For
The BISSELL Steam Shot Omni is best for individuals who need an effective, affordable, and compact handheld steam cleaner for quick clean-ups, sanitizing small areas, and tackling grease and grime on kitchen and bathroom surfaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable, offering great value for money.
- Heats up quickly, minimizing wait time.
- Strong steam pressure effectively loosens tough dirt.
- Compact design makes it easy to store and use in tight spaces.
Cons:
- Smaller water tank capacity requires frequent refills for larger tasks.
- Continuous steam duration is limited to about 10 minutes per fill.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This BISSELL Steam Shot is incredible. My stovetop has never been this clean, and I was honestly surprised by how much grime it was able to lift with just steam.It’s very easy to use, heats up quickly, and gets the job done without the need for harsh chemicals. The cloth attachment and brush attachm
Customer Review: I saw the reviews and this was the one that looked like the one to get, it was also the most recommended at its price point. The reviews are accurate and I like this product. It works as it should and it doesn’t take long to heat up. I really like the accessories, especially the hose.The power cord
4. Gautye Portable Steam Cleaner: Fast Heating, Large Tank, Adjustable for Versatile Home Cleaning.
The Gautye Portable Steam Cleaner offers a robust solution for comprehensive home cleaning, built from durable ABS material for excellent longevity and heat resistance. This handheld unit boasts impressively fast heating and a generously sized water tank, making it a reliable partner for extended cleaning tasks. With adjustable steam control, it adapts to a variety of surfaces and messes.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Constructed from durable ABS material for enhanced longevity.
- ✓ Features impressively fast heating, ready for use in seconds.
- ✓ Equipped with a large 1.69-quart (approximately 1.6L) water tank for longer operation.
- ✓ Handle-mounted, three-level adjustable steam control for precise cleaning.
- ✓ Designed for versatile home cleaning across various surfaces.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Gautye Portable Steam Cleaner for its excellent balance of speed, capacity, and control. The rapid heat-up combined with a large tank means less waiting and more continuous cleaning, while adjustable steam levels ensure optimal results on different surfaces. It’s a truly versatile and efficient small steam cleaner.
Best For
This portable steam cleaner is best for users who appreciate quick heat-up times and require a larger water tank for longer, uninterrupted cleaning sessions, suitable for a broad range of household tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely fast heat-up time (around 15 seconds).
- Large water tank reduces the need for frequent refills.
- Adjustable steam levels offer cleaning flexibility.
- Solidly built with durable materials.
Cons:
- Can be slightly bulkier than ultra-compact handheld models.
- Accessories might require careful handling over time.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: The Gautye Steam Cleaner has been a great addition to my home cleaning routine. It heats up incredibly fast—ready to use in about 15 seconds, which is perfect when you want to clean quickly without waiting around. The 1.69-quart water tank is large enough for extended cleaning sessions, so I don’t n
Customer Review: This handheld steam cleaner works very well and feels solidly built. It heats up quickly and produces strong steam, making it effective for cleaning grease, dirt, and tough stains. The long nozzle is especially useful for reaching tight spaces and corners. The hose and handle are comfortable to use,
5. McCulloch Handheld Steam Cleaner: 10-Minute Runtime, Versatile Accessories for Multi-Surface Home Cleaning.
The McCulloch Handheld Steam Cleaner is a powerful and compact solution for detailed steam cleaning around your home and even your car. Its 6-ounce direct-fill water tank heats up in under 3 minutes, providing up to 10 minutes of continuous steam with an optional lockable trigger. With 11 versatile accessories, it’s equipped to tackle a wide range of tasks, from grout to upholstery.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Quick heat-up time in under 3 minutes for efficient cleaning.
- ✓ Provides up to 10 minutes of steam from a 6-ounce direct-fill water tank.
- ✓ Includes an optional lockable steam trigger for continuous steam.
- ✓ Comes with 11 versatile accessories for diverse cleaning applications.
- ✓ Excellent for detailing and reaching intricate areas, including car interiors.
Why We Recommend It
This McCulloch steam cleaner is highly recommended for its robust performance and comprehensive accessory kit. It’s especially effective for tackling stubborn grime in hard-to-reach places and excels at detailing tasks. If you need a durable and precise handheld steamer, this is a strong contender.
Best For
This small steam cleaner is best for those seeking a durable, detailing-oriented handheld unit perfect for spot cleaning, sanitizing grout, refreshing upholstery, and even personal car detailing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Reputable brand known for durable cleaning equipment.
- Excellent array of 11 accessories for specialized cleaning.
- Strong steam output effectively lifts deep-seated dirt and grime.
- Quick heat-up and optional lockable steam feature.
Cons:
- Smaller water tank capacity leads to more frequent refills.
- Limited continuous runtime of 10 minutes per fill.
- Can feel a bit heavy when fully loaded with water.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: Corny title aside, this has been a well-worth purchase. We recently moved into a house where the previous owners did not know how to clean properly. Whether they moved into the house with it like this or not, the grout on these kitchen tiles were so full of gunk and God knows what else that when we
Customer Review: I picked up the McCulloch MC1375 mainly for personal car detailing, and it’s been awesome so far. The steam pressure is strong, it heats up quickly, and the tank lasts a long time — plenty for doing seats, carpets, and all the little cracks and trim pieces.The attachments are useful, and switching b
Complete Buying Guide for Best Small Steam Cleaner
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best small steam cleaner, several critical factors come into play that will greatly influence your cleaning experience. Firstly, consider the steam power and temperature; higher temperatures (above 200°F) and consistent pressure ensure effective sanitization and grime removal. The water tank capacity and runtime are also vital – a larger tank means longer continuous cleaning, while a smaller one is great for quick jobs but requires more refills. Heat-up time can range from seconds to a few minutes, impacting how quickly you can get started.
Furthermore, think about versatility and attachments. The more accessories a portable steam cleaner offers (brushes, nozzles, squeegees), the wider the range of surfaces it can clean. Portability and ergonomics are key for a “small” cleaner; it should be lightweight and comfortable to hold for extended periods. Lastly, check for safety features like automatic shut-off and child safety locks, along with overall ease of use and maintenance, including how simple it is to fill the tank and clean the unit.
Budget Planning
Investing in a small steam cleaner means balancing features with your budget. Entry-level handheld models are typically very affordable, perfect for occasional spot cleaning or trying out steam cleaning. Mid-range options offer more power, larger tanks, and a better variety of attachments, providing excellent value for regular household use. High-end models, while more expensive, often boast premium features, enhanced durability, and extended warranties.
Consider the long-term value; a slightly more expensive but durable model with better performance might save you money on replacement units or professional cleaning services in the long run. Don’t forget to account for any specialized accessories or descaling solutions that might be recommended for maintenance, though most steam cleaners only require distilled water.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best small steam cleaner ultimately comes down to your specific cleaning needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize quick spot cleaning, extensive multi-surface versatility, or a budget-friendly option, there’s a portable steam cleaner designed for you. By carefully evaluating the factors discussed in this guide, you can confidently select a machine that will transform your cleaning routine, making it more efficient, hygienic, and eco-friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What surfaces can a small steam cleaner clean?
A: A small steam cleaner is incredibly versatile and can safely clean most sealed hard surfaces like tile, grout, sealed hardwood, laminate, and linoleum floors. It’s also excellent for refreshing upholstery (always patch test first), cleaning windows, mirrors, countertops, sinks, appliances, shower doors, and even car interiors. Avoid using steam on unsealed wood, delicate fabrics like silk, or anything that could be damaged by high heat or moisture.
Q: Are small steam cleaners effective against germs and bacteria?
A: Yes, absolutely! The high temperature of the steam produced by these cleaners (typically exceeding 200°F or 93°C) is very effective. It can kill up to 99.9% of common household bacteria, viruses, mold, and dust mites on surfaces without the need for harsh chemical disinfectants, making your home a healthier environment.
Q: How long does a small steam cleaner take to heat up?
A: The heat-up time for a small steam cleaner varies significantly between models. Many compact, handheld units are designed for rapid use, heating up in as little as 15 seconds to 3 minutes. Larger or more powerful models might take slightly longer, but generally, they are much faster than traditional steam mops or full-sized steam cleaners.
Q: Do I need to use cleaning solutions with a steam cleaner?
A: No, the beauty of steam cleaning is that it uses only plain tap water (though distilled water is often recommended to prevent mineral buildup and extend the life of the unit) to clean and sanitize. This means you don’t need to purchase expensive or potentially harmful chemical cleaning solutions, making it an eco-friendly and cost-effective cleaning method.
Q: What’s the difference between a steam cleaner and a deep cleaner (like BISSELL Little Green)?
A: A steam cleaner uses superheated water vapor (steam) to sanitize and loosen dirt and grime without chemicals. It’s great for hard surfaces and refreshing fabrics. A deep cleaner, often called a carpet or upholstery extractor, sprays a mixture of water and cleaning solution onto the surface, then uses powerful suction to extract the liquid, along with embedded dirt and stains. While both are powerful cleaning tools, they work differently and are best suited for different types of messes and surfaces.
Choosing the right small steam cleaner can significantly enhance your home cleaning efforts, making tough jobs easier and creating a healthier living space. We hope our comprehensive review of the best small steam cleaner options has equipped you with the knowledge to make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize versatility, budget, or raw power, there’s a perfect portable steam cleaner waiting for you. Don’t wait – click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to find your ideal cleaning companion and start experiencing the power of chemical-free steam today!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
