Two of the most powerful tools in the cleaning arsenal are pressure washers and steam cleaners. While they both deliver excellent results, they serve different purposes and are best suited for different types of cleaning tasks. Understanding the differences between these two tools can help businesses choose the right solution for their specific needs.
At Complete Cleaning Company, we use both pressure washers and steam cleaners, depending on the job at hand. Let’s break down how they work, their differences, and how we use them across Chicago’s diverse commercial spaces.
What Is a Pressure Washer?
A pressure washer is a high-powered cleaning tool that uses water sprayed at extreme pressure to blast away dirt, grime, mold, and stains from various surfaces. It’s particularly effective for cleaning outdoor areas or hard surfaces that can handle the force of pressurized water.
How It Works:
- Water is pumped through a hose and expelled through a nozzle at high pressure (measured in PSI – pounds per square inch).
- Some models use cold water, while others are hot water pressure washers, which are more effective for cutting through grease and oily residues.
Best For:
- Outdoor surfaces like sidewalks, parking lots, and building exteriors
- Removing mildew, algae, and graffiti
- Cleaning vehicles and equipment
- Stripping paint or stains from concrete and wood
What Is a Steam Cleaner?
A steam cleaner is a versatile tool that uses high-temperature steam to clean and sanitize surfaces without the need for harsh chemicals. Steam penetrates pores and loosens dirt, grease, and bacteria, making it ideal for deep cleaning and disinfecting indoor areas.
How It Works:
- Water is heated to produce steam, which is directed onto the surface being cleaned.
- The high temperature dissolves grime and kills bacteria, viruses, and mold on contact.
Best For:
- Sanitizing high-touch areas (door handles, desks, and restrooms)
- Removing stains from upholstery and carpets
- Cleaning food preparation areas
- Disinfecting gym equipment and locker rooms
Key Differences Between Pressure Washers and Steam Cleaners
Here’s a side-by-side comparison of pressure washers and steam cleaners to help you understand how they differ:
| Feature | Pressure Washer | Steam Cleaner |
| Water Temperature | Cold or hot water | High-temperature steam only |
| Primary Use | Outdoor cleaning and tough grime removal | Indoor cleaning and sanitization |
| Best for | Concrete, brick, building exteriors | Tile, grout, fabric, upholstery, and sensitive surfaces |
| Cleaning Power | High pressure (measured in PSI) | High heat for sanitization |
| Disinfecting Ability | Limited | Excellent for killing bacteria and viruses |
| Use of Chemicals | Can be combined with detergents | Typically chemical-free |
| Eco-Friendliness | Uses a lot of water | Uses minimal water and no chemicals |
| Portability | Requires outdoor setup and hoses | Compact, easier to use indoors |
When to Use a Pressure Washer
If you’re dealing with tough, outdoor grime or large-scale cleaning tasks, a pressure washer is the tool for the job. Pressure washers can blast away buildup that would be almost impossible to remove by hand.
Common Applications:
- Building Exteriors: Removes dirt, soot, and pollution from brick, stone, and siding.
- Parking Lots and Sidewalks: Cleans oil stains, gum, and debris.
- Loading Docks and Warehouse Floors: Great for removing grease and industrial residue.
- Graffiti Removal: Quickly strips paint without damaging underlying surfaces.
Hot Water vs. Cold Water Pressure Washers:
- Cold Water Pressure Washers: Best for general cleaning tasks like dirt and debris removal.
- Hot Water Pressure Washers: More effective for oily and greasy messes.
When to Use a Steam Cleaner
Steam cleaners excel at cleaning and sanitizing indoor spaces, especially where hygiene is a top priority. They’re perfect for environments that require deep cleaning without chemical exposure.
Common Applications:
- Kitchens and Food Prep Areas: Removes grease buildup and sanitizes without chemicals.
- Restrooms: Kills bacteria, viruses, and mold while cleaning grout and tile.
- Healthcare Facilities: Disinfects high-touch surfaces and medical equipment.
- Carpet and Upholstery: Lifts stains and freshens fabric without soaking it.
Why Businesses Love Steam Cleaning:
- Eco-Friendly: Uses only water, making it a safe and green cleaning solution.
- Sanitizes and Disinfects: Highly effective at killing germs and allergens.
- Gentle on Surfaces: Won’t damage delicate materials like fabric, wood, or polished tile.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between a pressure washer and a steam cleaner depends on your cleaning goals and the surfaces you’re working with. Here’s a quick guide:
- Choose a Pressure Washer if:
- You’re cleaning large outdoor areas.
- You need to remove dirt, stains, or graffiti.
- You’re dealing with tough, built-up grime on hard surfaces.
- Choose a Steam Cleaner if:
- You’re cleaning indoor spaces.
- You need to sanitize and disinfect surfaces.
- You want a chemical-free cleaning solution.
Why Complete Cleaning Company Uses Both
At Complete Cleaning Company, we use both pressure washers and steam cleaners to handle a wide range of cleaning needs. Our team is trained to assess each space and recommend the best solution, ensuring top-notch results every time.
Why Our Clients Trust Us:
- Customized cleaning plans based on your needs
- Experienced, highly trained professionals
- Commitment to safety and customer satisfaction
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can a pressure washer be used indoors?
It’s not recommended. Pressure washers are designed for outdoor use and can damage indoor surfaces or create excessive water runoff. Steam cleaners are better suited for indoor cleaning tasks. - Are steam cleaners effective for killing germs?
Yes! Steam cleaners reach high temperatures that can kill bacteria, viruses, and mold on contact, making them a great choice for sanitizing high-touch areas. - Do pressure washers damage surfaces?
When used correctly, pressure washers are safe for most outdoor surfaces. However, too much pressure can damage softer materials like wood or delicate stone, so it’s important to adjust the settings. - How often should a business pressure wash its exterior?
It depends on the location and level of exposure to dirt and pollution. Most commercial buildings should be pressure washed once or twice a year. - Are steam cleaners chemical-free?
Yes! Steam cleaners use only water, making them a safe and eco-friendly option for cleaning and sanitizing. - How do I know which cleaning method is right for my business?
The best way is to consult a professional cleaning company like Complete Cleaning Company. We’ll assess your needs and recommend the ideal solution for your space.
Conclusion
Pressure washers and steam cleaners are powerful tools for commercial cleaning, but they serve very different purposes. Pressure washers excel at blasting away tough outdoor grime, while steam cleaners are perfect for sanitizing and disinfecting indoor spaces. At Complete Cleaning Company, we use both to help businesses keep their spaces clean, healthy, and inviting.
Contact us today to learn more about our commercial cleaning services and how we can customize a plan that meets your needs.
