Good Questions: Are Steam Cleaners Worth It?

Hello AT,

Does anyone have experience with steam cleaners? I've seen the Scunci for about $60 and wonder if it is worth the price or if there are better, if more expensive, ones out there.

Thanks, Stacey

Dear Stacey, Unfortunately we don't have experience with this kind of thing AND Consumer Reports doesn't either! We are throwing this right out to our readers.

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Comments (1)

I bought a more expensive steam cleaner and got very enthusiastic about using it. I loved the idea of having clean- to-the-point-of-sterile surfaces in the house. (Don't ask me why.) I also wanted to avoid ironing, and it was supposed to be able to clean clothes and leave them wrinkle free.

When steam machines are working, they leave a lot of puddling water which you have mop up somehow. I ended up consuming massive amounts of paper towels to deal with the extra standing water everywhere.

I had some kind of a big job, and the steam cleaner broke down. It was about a month after I had gotten it. In the meantime, friends were influenced by my new dedication to cleanliness and got their own steam cleaners. Aaah! I ended up wasting over $300 and being responsible for a bunch of other people doing the same.

I don't recommend steam cleaners for people who want to remain sane.