Steam Cooking: Bacteria Killer Or Friendly Helper?

Steam cleaning is an effective way to kill bacteria and viruses. It is a popular cleaning method that surpasses traditional cleaning methods with detergents. Steam cleaners can reach temperatures above 212ºF, which is effective in destroying germs, including flu viruses and dust mites. Most bacteria die at around 150ºF-180ºF, and steam is produced at 212ºF. However, it is important to note that simply spraying steam on a surface for a few seconds is not enough to kill bacteria. The temperature must be maintained for a certain period, similar to the recommended 20 seconds of handwashing to effectively kill germs. Steam cleaning is not only effective but also sustainable, using fewer chemicals and less water while being eco-friendly.

Steam cleaning can kill bacteria on raw meat

Steam cleaning is a highly effective method of killing bacteria and viruses. Steam reaches temperatures of 212ºF, which is well above the 150ºF-180ºF threshold at which most bacteria die.

How Steam Cleaning Works

Steam cleaning uses high pressure and temperature to destroy germs, including flu viruses and dust mites. The steam exits the steamer at around 100ºC and penetrates all pores and cracks, cleaning areas that regular cleaning materials cannot reach.

Killing Bacteria on Raw Meat

A device has been designed by scientists at the USDA's Agricultural Research Service that kills bacteria on the surface of raw meat. The machine uses steam to kill 99.99% of bacteria, including Salmonella, on poultry, beef, and pork, without cooking the meat. The meat is surrounded by a vacuum that withdraws all air, then it is flushed with steam, treated with a burst of 290ºF steam, and vacuum-cooled. This process kills bacteria and other harmful microorganisms while retaining the raw appearance of the meat.

Effectiveness of Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is an effective way to kill bacteria and viruses, but it must be done correctly. Simply spraying steam on a surface for a few seconds is not enough to kill bacteria. To achieve the desired level of disinfection, the surface must be exposed to steam at the required temperature for a sufficient amount of time.

Steam cleaning is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional cleaning methods

Steam cleaning is an effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional cleaning methods. It is a simple and chemical-free process that uses high-temperature water vapour to remove dirt, grime, and stains from various surfaces. This makes it a safer and more environmentally friendly option as it does not involve the use of harmful chemicals or harsh detergents.

One of the key advantages of steam cleaning is its ability to kill bacteria and other microorganisms naturally. The high temperature of the steam, ranging from 100°C to 120°C, is effective in killing up to 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, dust mites, mould, and other allergens. This makes it ideal for people with allergies and for improving indoor air quality. Steam cleaning can be used on a wide variety of soft and hard surfaces, including countertops, sealed hardwood floors, carpets, tiles, glass, and appliances.

In addition to its sanitizing power, steam cleaning also offers cost savings and reduced water consumption. It is up to 91% cheaper than using traditional disinfectants and can reduce water use by up to 90%. It is important to note that steam cleaning requires high temperatures to be effective, and specific practices can be implemented to make the process more eco-friendly, such as using efficient, industrial-level steam-cleaning machines and biodegradable products.

However, there are some surfaces that should be avoided when steam cleaning, such as cold glass, delicate fabrics, and unsealed hardwood floors, as they can be damaged by the high temperatures. Overall, steam cleaning is a powerful and eco-friendly alternative to traditional cleaning methods, providing effective sanitization without the use of chemicals.

Steam cleaning can be used to disinfect surfaces in healthcare facilities

Steam cleaning is an effective method for disinfecting surfaces in healthcare facilities. It can be used to clean operating rooms, wheelchairs, waiting areas, and patient equipment. The high temperatures and pressures achieved by steam cleaners, often between 100 and 150 °C, are effective in destroying germs, including flu viruses and dust mites. The steam penetrates all cracks and pores, cleaning areas that regular cleaning materials cannot reach. This makes steam cleaning a more sustainable method as it uses fewer chemicals and less water for deep cleaning while being eco-friendly.

Steam cleaning has been proven to be as effective as traditional cleaning methods with detergents in killing bacteria and viruses. A study in a tertiary referral hospital evaluated the efficacy of steam technology and a two-step cleaning process (water/detergent and disinfecting with hypochlorite) in controlling the spread of multidrug-resistant microorganisms in intensive care units (ICUs). The results showed that steam technology was equally effective in eliminating bacterial growth and was more cost-effective, time-saving, and environmentally friendly.

However, it is important to note that steam cleaning may not be suitable for all surfaces, especially those that cannot withstand high temperatures. Additionally, some surfaces may be left damp after steam cleaning, requiring additional drying time. In healthcare facilities, it is crucial to ensure that all equipment is suitable for steam cleaning and that the cleaning process adheres to safety standards.

Overall, steam cleaning is a powerful and eco-friendly option for disinfecting surfaces in healthcare facilities, offering a comprehensive and sustainable method for deep cleaning.

Steam cleaning can kill dust mites and bed bugs

Steam cleaning is an effective way to kill dust mites and bed bugs. Dust mites are a leading trigger of allergy and asthma attacks and pose a significant health risk, especially to children. Bed bugs can also cause a range of health issues and spread throughout the home. Steam cleaning offers a chemical-free way to kill these pests and create a cleaner, more hygienic space.

Steam cleaners reach high temperatures of at least 100°C, which is hot enough to kill dust mites, bed bugs, and their eggs and larvae. The high heat also helps to dissolve any dirt, grime, and allergens that may be present.

How to steam clean to kill dust mites and bed bugs

To effectively kill dust mites and bed bugs with a steam cleaner, it is important to:

• Prepare the area by removing all bedding and linens and washing them at a high temperature.
• Vacuum the surface thoroughly to remove any dead skin flakes, dust, dander, pollen, and dust mites.
• Spot treat any stains with a mixture of water, white vinegar, and laundry detergent.
• Test the steam cleaner on a small area to ensure it is hot enough and does not cause any damage.
• Hold the steam cleaner 2 to 3 inches above the surface and move it slowly across the area in long, even strokes.
• Allow the surface to dry completely before replacing any bedding.

Limitations of steam cleaning for dust mites and bed bugs

While steam cleaning is effective for killing dust mites and bed bugs, it may not be suitable for all surfaces or materials. For example, memory foam mattresses should not be steam cleaned as the heat can break down the cellular structure of the foam, and the moisture can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Similarly, delicate materials like cashmere or wool can be damaged by the high heat and may shrink, lose their shape, or become brittle.

Steam cleaning can be used to sanitise tables in cafes and restaurants

Steam cleaning is an effective way to sanitise tables in cafes and restaurants. The high temperatures reached by steam cleaners (above 212ºF) are highly effective in destroying germs and viruses, including flu viruses and dust mites. Steam cleaning is superior to traditional cleaning methods with detergents as it can access small spaces and crevices that regular cleaning materials cannot reach. It is also a more sustainable option, using fewer chemicals and less water.

Steam cleaning is a simple process. The steam cleaner boils water to generate heated steam, which exits the machine at around 100 degrees Celsius. The steam penetrates all cracks and pores, cleaning areas that are hard to reach with other methods. It is important to guide the nozzle directly over the surface to be cleaned and to ensure sufficient steaming time, with 30 seconds recommended for one area.

Steam cleaning is a great option for cafes and restaurants as it is a chemical-free method of cleaning. This is particularly beneficial in areas where food is prepared or consumed, as it removes the risk of toxic chemicals coming into contact with food or dining surfaces. Steam cleaning is also beneficial for allergy sufferers, as it can effectively remove common indoor air pollutants.

It is worth noting that while steam cleaning is very effective at killing bacteria and viruses, it may not be practical for all surfaces. For example, it is not recommended for use on wood floors as the heat can force its way under the floorboards and cause warping. It is important to consider the type of surface to be cleaned and choose an appropriate cleaning method.

Frequently asked questions