If you’re in the market for a steam cleaner, you may be wondering whether to go for a handheld model or a full-size one. Both have their pros and cons, but it ultimately comes down to your specific needs and preferences. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the differences between handheld steam cleaners and full-size ones, helping you make an informed decision on which option is best for you. Whether you’re looking to tackle small messes or deep clean your entire home, we’ve got you covered.
Portability
Handheld Steam Cleaner
When it comes to portability, the handheld steam cleaner takes the crown. Its compact size and lightweight design make it incredibly easy to carry around and manoeuvre in tight spaces. Whether you need to clean your kitchen countertops, bathroom tiles, or even your car upholstery, you can easily take the handheld steam cleaner with you wherever you go. Its small and convenient size also makes storage a breeze, as it can easily fit into any cupboard or closet.
Full-size
On the other hand, full-size steam cleaners are not as portable as their handheld counterparts. Due to their larger size and bulkier build, they can be more challenging to move around, especially in cramped areas. While they may excel at tackling larger cleaning tasks such as cleaning carpets and floors, their lack of portability can be a significant drawback, particularly if you need to clean multiple areas or different rooms in your home.
Cleaning Power
Handheld Steam Cleaner
Despite their smaller size, handheld steam cleaners pack a powerful cleaning punch. With their high-pressure steam, they effectively remove dirt, grime, and even stubborn stains from a variety of surfaces. From kitchen appliances to bathroom fixtures, the handheld steam cleaner can effortlessly restore them to their sparkling best. Its compact nozzle allows for precise and targeted cleaning, ensuring every nook and cranny receives the cleaning power it needs.
Full-size
Full-size steam cleaners, on the other hand, are known for their superior cleaning power. With their larger water tanks and higher steam output, they can address more extensive cleaning tasks with ease. From deep-cleaning carpets and rugs to sanitizing hard floors, full-size steam cleaners provide a thorough and efficient clean. Their robust motors and heavy-duty attachments make them suitable for tackling even the toughest cleaning jobs, making them a popular choice for professional cleaners and households with larger cleaning needs.
Ease of Use
Handheld Steam Cleaner
The handheld steam cleaner excels in its simplicity and ease of use. With its intuitive controls and compact design, it is incredibly user-friendly, even for those who are not tech-savvy. Simply fill the water tank, wait for it to heat up, and you’re ready to start cleaning. The lightweight construction allows for comfortable handling and extended usage without causing strain or fatigue. Changing attachments is a breeze, allowing you to switch between different cleaning tasks seamlessly.
Full-size
While full-size steam cleaners may offer more powerful cleaning capabilities, their larger size can make them more cumbersome to use. Manoeuvring the machine, especially in tight spaces, may require more effort and coordination. Additionally, the larger water tank may take longer to heat up, prolonging the waiting time before you can start cleaning. However, once you have familiarized yourself with the controls and become accustomed to its size and weight, the full-size steam cleaner can be a valuable cleaning tool that delivers exceptional results.
Versatility
Handheld Steam Cleaner
The handheld steam cleaner’s versatility shines through its ability to clean a wide range of surfaces and materials. From glass and tiles to upholstery and fabrics, this compact machine can handle it all. Its various attachments, including brushes and nozzles, allow for customization, making it suitable for different cleaning tasks. Clean your kitchen counters, sanitize your bathroom tiles, steam your curtains, and even freshen up your mattresses – the handheld steam cleaner is a versatile companion that adapts to your cleaning needs.
Full-size
Full-size steam cleaners are also versatile cleaning machines, albeit with a slightly different focus. Due to their larger size and often specialized attachments, they are particularly effective at deep-cleaning carpets, rugs, and hard floors. Their powerful steam output penetrates deep into the fibres, eliminating dirt, bacteria, and allergens. This makes full-size steam cleaners an excellent choice for households with extensive carpeting or those looking for a more thorough clean on their floors.
Capacity
Handheld Steam Cleaner
When it comes to capacity, handheld steam cleaners typically have smaller water tanks due to their compact size. While this means that they may need more frequent refills during longer cleaning sessions, it also contributes to their lightweight design. The smaller capacity also allows for faster heating times, ensuring that you can start cleaning sooner.
Full-size
In contrast, full-size steam cleaners come equipped with larger water tanks that can hold a significant amount of water. This allows for longer cleaning sessions without the need for frequent refills. However, it is important to consider that the larger tank size may result in a longer heating time, so you may need to wait a bit longer before the steam cleaner is ready to use.
Heating Time
Handheld Steam Cleaner
Handheld steam cleaners are known for their impressive heating times. Due to their smaller water tanks, they are able to heat up the water more quickly compared to full-size steam cleaners. This means that you can start your cleaning tasks sooner and be more efficient with your time.
Full-size
Full-size steam cleaners typically have a longer heating time compared to handheld steam cleaners. The larger water tank takes more time to heat up, and it is important to factor in this waiting period before you can begin cleaning. However, once the steam cleaner is heated and ready to go, it can provide a continuous steam flow for extended periods, allowing for uninterrupted cleaning.
Size and Weight
Handheld Steam Cleaner
One of the significant advantages of handheld steam cleaners is their small and lightweight construction. They are designed with manoeuvrability in mind, making them easy to carry and control. Their compact size allows for greater flexibility and access to tight corners, making them an ideal choice for detailed cleaning in smaller spaces.
Full-size
Full-size steam cleaners, as the name suggests, are larger and bulkier than their handheld counterparts. While this may make them less portable, their weight and size contribute to the machine’s stability and ability to handle more extensive cleaning tasks. The added weight can help with deep cleaning, especially on carpets and surfaces that require more pressure. However, it is important to consider if the larger size and weight will be suitable for your specific cleaning needs.
Cost
Handheld Steam Cleaner
Handheld steam cleaners tend to be more affordable compared to full-size steam cleaners. Their smaller size and fewer advanced features contribute to a lower price point, making them a budget-friendly option. If you are looking for a cost-effective solution for everyday cleaning tasks, a handheld steam cleaner may be the more suitable choice.
Full-size
Full-size steam cleaners typically come with a higher price tag due to their larger size and more advanced features. However, if you have specific cleaning needs, such as extensive carpeting or a larger home, the investment in a full-size steam cleaner may be worthwhile. The superior cleaning power and durability of full-size steam cleaners make them a long-term investment that can save you time and money in the long run.
Accessories
Handheld Steam Cleaner
Handheld steam cleaners often come with a range of accessories to enhance their versatility. These can include different nozzle attachments, brushes for scrubbing, extension wands for reaching higher areas, and even specialized tools for cleaning grout or fabrics. These accessories allow you to customize your cleaning experience and tackle a wide variety of surfaces and tasks.
Full-size
Similarly, full-size steam cleaners also come with a range of accessories to cater to different cleaning needs. These can include various brush heads, upholstery tools, mop pads, and even carpet gliders. The wide selection of accessories ensures that you have the right tools to tackle specific cleaning challenges effectively.
Noise Level
Handheld Steam Cleaner
Handheld steam cleaners are generally quieter compared to full-size steam cleaners. With their smaller motors and compact design, they produce less noise during operation. This can be beneficial, especially if you live in an apartment or have noise-sensitive individuals in your household.
Full-size
Full-size steam cleaners tend to generate more noise during operation due to their larger motors and powerful steam output. While they may not be excessively loud, it is worth considering the noise level if you have a preference for quieter cleaning experiences.
In conclusion, when deciding between a handheld steam cleaner and a full-size steam cleaner, it is essential to consider your specific cleaning needs, the size of your home, and the portability factor. Handheld steam cleaners excel in their portability, versatility, and ease of use, making them ideal for small-scale, detailed cleaning tasks. On the other hand, full-size steam cleaners offer superior cleaning power, longer run times, and specialized attachments that cater to larger areas and more demanding cleaning tasks. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your preferences, budget, and the type of cleaning you need to tackle.
