How to Unclog a Steam Cleaner

Published: Jan 9, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
1 minute read

Unclogging a steam cleaner is not a difficult task, but it does take a little work.

Things You Will Need

  • Cloth
  • White vinegar
  • Needle
  • Water
  1. Apply 1 to 2 tbsp. of white vinegar to a cloth. Rub the cloth over the steam cleaner holes to remove any stuck-on residue.

  2. Turn the stem cleaner upside-down to access the steam holes. Insert a needle three-fourths of the way into each steam hole to loosen any debris.

  3. Fill the steam cleaner's water tank with one part water and one part vinegar. Do not fill the tank higher than the tank's maximum fill line.

  4. Allow the steam cleaner to heat up per the manufacturer's instructions, then turn the cleaner to the steam setting and allow all of the water and vinegar to steam out.

The Drip Cap

  • Steam cleaners are devices filled with water that heats to boiling.
  • Once the water boils, it produces steam, which is pushed through tiny holes in the cleaner.
  • Rub the cloth over the steam cleaner holes to remove any stuck-on residue.
Kimberly Johnson

Kimberly Johnson is a freelance writer whose articles have appeared in various online publications including eHow, Suite101 and Examiner. She has a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia and began writing professionally in…

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