Spray an air freshener and it may mitigate bad house smells momentarily. But, plug-in air fresheners combat unpleasant odors continuously, masking or even eliminating them completely. These products come in a number of different formats and typically work by heating oil or wax to aerosolize or vaporize fragrances. Although air purifiers sanitize the air by filtering out dust, mold spores, pet dander, and more.

While choosing the best plug-in air freshener might seem like a simple decision, there are a number of considerations to weigh. Our favorite was the plug-in air freshener from Febreze because of its simple design and effective refills. This guide explores important features and considerations and some of the top products on the market.

1. BEST OVERALL: Febreze Odor-eliminating Plug Air Freshener
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Air Wick Plug in Scented Oil Starter Kit
3. BEST ECO-FRIENDLY: Air Wick Botanica Plug in Scented Oil Starter Kit
4. BEST DIFFUSER: Pure Daily Care Ultimate Aromatherapy Diffuser Set
5. BEST AIR PURIFIER: LEVOIT Smart WiFi Air Purifier for Home
6. BEST MINI AIR PURIFIER: Germ Guardian Pluggable Air Purifier & Sanitizer
7. BEST FOR BATHROOM: Mindful Design Frosted Pagoda Wax Warmer Plug-In
   

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

The following recommendations take into account the abovementioned factors and features for choosing the best plug-in air freshener, in addition to overall quality and value. Check out these top options in a variety of categories for eliminating unpleasant odors and controlling the air quality in your home.

Best Overall

Febreze Odor-eliminating Plug Air Freshener

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What We Like

• Refill cartridges
• Suitable for large and small spaces
• Compatible with horizontal and vertical outlets
• Compact and lightweight

What We Don’t Like

• Should not be used in enclosed areas with pets
• Cannot be used with extension cords
• Not compatible with wet or moist areas

This heated oil set from Febreze packs a serious punch—and some pleasant scents. It includes the plug-in warmer as well as one to two refill cartridges, each of which features two rotating, complementary scents that feature notes of lily and pear. Use the highest setting for large open spaces and the lowest setting for smaller rooms.

Each cartridge operates for 1,200 hours (approximately 50 days) at the lowest setting. The warmer is also compatible with all other versions of Febreze plug-in cartridges for more tropical, musky, or floral scents. The warmer is compatible with both horizontal and vertical outlets and can be placed upside down if necessary.

Product Specs

• Type: Heated oil
• Scent(s): Clean linen, lily, and pear
• Longevity: 50 days (per refill)

Get the Febreze plug-in air freshener at Target or Walmart.

Best Bang for the Buck

Air Wick Plug in Scented Oil Starter Kit

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What We Like

• Extra refills
• 5 settings
• Lasts for 360 days total on the lowest setting
• Dye- and phthalate-free
• Recyclable and eco-friendly

What We Don’t Like

• Some users report issues with the scent quality

Air Wick’s scented oil starter kit features two warmers and six refills at a budget-friendly price. Control the amount of fragrance emitted by choosing from five settings for tackling cooking, musty, and pet odors. This kit provides a lavender aroma for 360 days on the lowest setting, with each cartridge lasting for approximately 60 days.

The oil is free of dyes and phthalates and contains natural fragrances, which include notes of lavender essence as well as chamomile and woods. The packing materials and glass cartridges are recyclable to make the product eco-friendly. The refills are also compatible with all other Air Wick plug-in air fresheners.

Product Specs 

• Type: Heated oil
• Scent(s): Lavender and chamomile
• Longevity: 60 days (per refill)

Get the Air Wick Starter Kit at Amazon, The Home Depot, and Walmart.

Best Eco-Friendly

Air Wick Botanica Plug in Scented Oil Starter Kit

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What We Like

• Free of propellants, dyes, and phthalates
• Cruelty-free
• Responsibly-sourced oil
• 100 percent recyclable packaging

What We Don’t Like

• Some users report poor scent quality

Air Wick’s Botanica line is tough on unpleasant smells and gentle on the planet. The oil contains responsibly sourced ingredients and no chemical propellants, dyes, or phthalates, and it was not tested on animals. The scent features Caribbean sweetgrass and sandalwood, and the sweetgrass essential oil is responsibly sourced from Haiti. It comes in a 100 percent recyclable box and is made in a zero-waste plant.

The kit includes two warmers and six refills, each of which provides up to 60 days of pleasant, warm aromas on the lowest setting. Air Wick also makes a number of other eco-friendly Botanica fragrances, including French Lavender and Honey, Pineapple and Tunisian Rosemary, and Himalayan Magnolia and Vanilla.

Product Specs 

• Type: Heated oil
• Scent(s): Caribbean sweetgrass and sandalwood, French lavender and honey, pineapple and Tunisian rosemary, and Himalayan magnolia and vanilla
• Longevity: 60 days (per refill)

Get the Air Wick Scented Oil Starter Kit at Amazon.

Best Diffuser

Pure Daily Care Ultimate Aromatherapy Diffuser Set

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What We Like

• Suitable for aromatherapy
• 10 essential oils with amber jars for sun protection
• BPA-free plastic construction
• 400-millimeter capacity
• 7 ambient light modes

What We Don’t Like

• No longevity between reloads listed
• Pricey compared to similar options

Pure Daily Care makes an excellent starter kit for those interested in aromatherapy. This diffuser comes with 10 therapeutic-grade essential oils, including lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, orange, peppermint, lemongrass, jasmine, nutmeg, clove, and spearmint. Each is packaged in a 10-milliliter amber jar that protects the oil from sun degradation.

The diffuser itself is made from BPA-free plastic with a wood grain design and has a 400-milliliter capacity. It features seven ambient light modes with two light intensity settings as well as a timer and an auto-shutoff feature that detects low water levels.

Product Specs 

• Type: Essential oil diffuser
• Scent(s): Lavender, eucalyptus, tea tree, orange, peppermint, lemongrass, jasmine, nutmeg, clove, and spearmint
• Longevity: Unlimited

Get the Pure Daily Care diffuser set at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Air Purifier

LEVOIT Smart WiFi Air Purifier for Home

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What We Like

• Connects to Wi-Fi networks; controllable through smartphones and tablets
• Removes 99.97 percent of airborne contaminants
• 3-step filtration system
• Circulates air multiple times per hour
• Night mode

What We Don’t Like

• Pricey
• No air quality sensor built-in

LEVOIT smart air purifier connects to a Wi-Fi network, allowing users to control it remotely from a smartphone or a tablet. Eliminate 99.97 percent of airborne contaminants that are 0.3 microns in size, including dust, pollen, mold, and pet dander, using the ultrafine nylon prefilter, activated carbon filter, and HEPA filter. In a 183-square-foot room, this air purifier circulates air five times per hour and twice per hour in a 376-square-foot room.

For uninterrupted sleep, users can turn off all display lights while the purifier is operating. Sleep mode also operates quietly at just 24 decibels, while “high-speed” mode produces 45 decibels of sound, which is comparable to the sound of a fridge running.

Product Specs 

• Type: Air purifier
• Scent(s): N/A
• Longevity: Unlimited

Get the LEVOIT Smart WiFi air purifier at Amazon or Target.

Best Mini Air Purifier

Germ Guardian Pluggable Air Purifier & Sanitizer

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What We Like

• Compatible with standard wall outlets
• UV-C light technology; removes VOCs, germs, and viruses
• Compact, lightweight design

What We Don’t Like

• Not suitable for large spaces
• Replacement bulbs sold separately

Many plug-in air purifiers sit on a tabletop, but mini models rest directly on a wall outlet, taking up minimal space. Despite its compact size, this Germ Guardian product is powerful enough to sanitize the air in small spaces. Rather than filters, it uses UV-C light to remove airborne germs and viruses and reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The light actually alters the genetic structure of particles like influenza, killing them before they are breathed in. Each bulb lasts for between 4,000 and 5,000 hours.

Product Specs 

• Type: Air purifier
• Scent(s): N/A
• Longevity: 4,000 to 5,000 hours

Get the Germ Guardian mini air purifier at Amazon, The Home Depot, and Walmart.

Best for Bathroom

Mindful Design Frosted Pagoda Wax Warmer Plug-In

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What We Like

• Removable dish
• Toggle switch turn-on
• Produces aroma and light

What We Don’t Like

• Wax not included
• Should be used with soy-based waxes for best results

To bring a spa-style vibe to any bathroom, consider this Mindful Design product. As a wax warmer, it provides the peaceful ambiance of a scented candle without the stress of an open flame. The pagoda-shaped warmer has a wood frame and glass siding, and it uses a glowing filament bulb to create a gentle golden glow for a relaxing atmosphere.

The outlet cord features a toggle switch so users can easily turn the warmer off when leaving the room. The bowl is removable for easy cleanup once the wax has cooled. The wax is not included; purchase soy-based wax for the best results.

Product Specs 

• Type: Wax warmer
• Scent(s): Universal
• Longevity: 4 to 8 hours

Get the Mindful Design plug-in air freshener at Amazon.

How We Chose the Best Plug-In Air Fresheners

We researched the most sought-after plug-in air fresheners in their respective categories and discovered that the best options are determined by their type, size, fragrances offered, longevity, ease of setup and use, and other special features included by top brands.

To ensure our list included top picks that satisfied a range of preferences, we included heated oil models, essential oil diffusers, air purifiers, and wax melts that are compact enough to fit standard wall outlets as well as tabletops and vehicles. While many options come with various fragrances, some options remove unpleasant odors with air purification and elimination without the use of natural or artificial fragrances.

Though some options on our list provide unlimited usage, all of the other products listed above offer odor control for 4 hours to as long as 360 days at a time in small to large rooms. Each option is also easy to set up and use by simply plugging in or refilling a reservoir with water and compatible essential oils. Plus, these air fresheners are suitable for use in living room, kitchen, automotive, and bathroom spaces and their odors.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Plug-in Air Freshener 

A number of factors and product features may affect a plug-in air freshener’s scent, settings, aesthetic, convenience, and overall quality. Keep reading to learn important considerations when shopping for the best plug-in air freshener for unpleasant home smells.

Types of Plug-in Air Fresheners

There are four basic types of plug-in air fresheners for unpleasant odors: heated oils and sprays, wax warmers, essential oil diffusers, and air purifiers. Each provides varying benefits and offers differing levels of convenience, longevity, and additional features.

Heated Oil and Spray

These standard plug-in air fresheners are energy efficient, emitting a fairly strong fragrance while using a minimal amount of electricity. They feature cartridges filled with a wide variety of scented oils, which are then aerosolized and sprayed into the room. Most models are compatible with any refill cartridge from the same brand. Each cartridge lasts between 30 and 60 days, though longevity varies from brand to brand.

Some folks find the fragrance from this type of air freshener to be overpowering, but there are products that let you control the level of scent emitted, adjusting it to room size or user preference. Be mindful of standard plug-in air fresheners when it comes to children and pets, because heated oils and sprays are dangerous if ingested.

Wax Warmers

Wax warmers act as a safer alternative to burning candles, relying on either a light bulb or a warming plate as a heat source instead of an open flame. Bulbs for plug-in wax warmers range from 25 to 40 watts, and various models may emit soft, ambient light to mimic a candle. While some models may come with wax, it can also be purchased separately.

These products feature a heat-resistant bowl where users place wax melts or pucks that come in various natural and synthetic fragrances. The wax takes several hours to cool completely and should not be accessible to children or pets. Each wax melt lasts for up to 10 hours.

Essential Oil Diffusers

Essential oils are natural, plant-derived substances said to have a number of aromatherapeutic benefits. Essential oil diffusers heat essential oils to break them down and dispense the smaller particles into the air. Most models also use water to provide both a humidifying and air- freshening effect.

While the water reservoir must be refilled daily, only a few drops of essential oil are required. Some oil diffusers are sold with essential oils while others require that you purchase them separately. Essential oil diffusers should only be used for half an hour at a time because prolonged exposure to essential oils may have negative health effects.

Air Purifiers

Air purifiers actually eliminate unpleasant odors rather than simply covering them up. Not only that, but they also improve air quality by removing dust, pollen, mold, and pet dander. They are the ideal choice for reducing airborne contaminants that aggravate allergy symptoms and cause respiratory issues. They draw in odors and particles from the air, then use filters to purify the air before recirculating it into the room.

The highest-quality filters are known as HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters. They have been certified to trap 99.97 percent of all particles that are 0.3 microns or larger in size. HEPA filters must be changed every 3 to 6 months.

When choosing an air purifier, consider the size of your space. Most manufacturers will stipulate the ideal room size for their product and provide an air change per hour (ACH) rate, which lets users know how many times per hour it will filter all of the air in the room.

Location

When choosing an air freshener, first consider where it will be placed. While a stronger fragrance may be a great choice for a large open space, it may be overpowering in a small bathroom. Also, consider any pets or young children in the household, and be sure to place the plug-in air freshener out of their reach.

Note that your vehicle may also benefit from a plug-in product. Some are designed to be plugged into a car’s 2-volt outlet, while others use a USB cable. They’re convenient for covering up the smell of fast food or stinky sports equipment. They typically power on when the engine is running to avoid wasting the car’s battery.

Scent

One of the primary considerations when choosing an air freshener is whether to go with a scented or unscented version. Standard air fresheners, as well as essential oil diffusers and wax warmers, feature a wide variety of fresh scents that can be swapped out seasonally or depending on your preference.

Decide whether natural aromas from essential oils or synthetic scents are the better choice for your household, keeping in mind that some artificial smells may act as irritants to allergy sufferers. Also remember that air purifiers eliminate odors without emitting any additional scent.

Settings

Each type of plug-in air freshener can feature a range of settings.

• Some standard air fresheners allow users to control the level of fragrance emitted based on how strong they want the smell to be. Others feature night-lights that are convenient for late-night bathroom trips.
• Essential oil diffusers may include timers, ambient light settings, and auto-shutoff features that detect low water levels.
• Air purifiers often feature different fan settings, timers, and filter change indicators. They may also include smart technology, allowing users to control them remotely via a smartphone or a tablet.

Aesthetic

When choosing an air freshener that will be placed in a visible location, the product’s appearance is a key consideration.

• Heated oil and spray air fresheners typically have a simple plastic design and display the color of the oil or liquid.
• Wax warmers vary widely in appearance, with options to suit a number of different decor styles. They may have either a natural, a contemporary, or a bohemian aesthetic.
• Essential oil diffusers come in a variety of shapes and sizes and feature casings made from plastic, wood, glass, and terra cotta.
• Air purifiers often feature streamlined modern designs that help them blend in with existing decor items.

Convenience

Some shoppers may prioritize convenience when choosing a plug-in air freshener. Air purifiers offer optimal convenience since their filters only need to be changed a few times per year. Essential oil diffusers, on the other hand, need their water reservoirs filled daily.

When shopping for a standard plug-in air freshener, look for a model that is compatible with both vertical and horizontal outlets that can be plugged in upside down if necessary.

FAQs 

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about plug-in air fresheners for bad home smells.

Q: Do plug-in air fresheners use a lot of electricity? 

Plug-in air fresheners are very energy efficient, using an average of 4 watts of power.

Q: Are plug-in air fresheners a fire hazard? 

While some plug-in air fresheners have been blamed for causing fires, this is extremely rare. These incidents are typically caused by faulty wiring.

Q: What is the most effective air freshener? 

Air purifiers are more powerful than traditional air fresheners because they actually filter and eliminate dust and mold particles to clean the air in your home. The LEVOIT Smart WiFi Air Purifier for Home is one of the best air purifier options available.

Q: What is the longest-lasting plug-in air freshener? 

The Air Wick Plug in Scented Oil Starter Kit is one of the most long-lasting plug-in air fresheners on the market, with the included cartridges lasting for a total of 360 days.

Q: How often do plug-in air fresheners need to be replaced? 

The cartridges on standard plug-in air fresheners typically need to be replaced every 30 to 60 days, depending on the brand.

The post The Best Plug-In Air Fresheners appeared first on Bob Vila.

Steam cleaners use pressurized steam from heated water to clean both soft and hard surfaces. This method requires zero cleaning solutions and chemicals, making it a preferred cleaning procedure for many health-conscious users, as well as those with sensitivities or allergies. Steam cleaning lifts away dirt and grime from upholstery and other materials while killing germs, bacteria, and pathogens, leaving behind freshened and deodorized surfaces.

To find the best upholstery steam cleaner, we tested a number of popular models that we found through extensive product research and used them to steam furniture, car interiors, throw pillows, and other household surfaces. We also put them through a stain test, evaluating how well each model removed six common household stains. Our top pick was the Kiato handheld steam cleaner thanks to its large amount of steam produced in such a lightweight unit.

In addition to cleaning upholstery, steam cleaners also function well for sanitizing sealed floors, windows, tile, and other indoor and outdoor applications. Read on to learn about the best upholstery steam cleaner for your home and how we tested each model.

1. BEST OVERALL: Kiato Handheld Steam Cleaner
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bissell Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaner & Sanitizer
3. BEST FOR CAR UPHOLSTERY: Wagner 925E SteamMachine Elite Portable Steamer
4. BEST FOR VERSATILITY: Bissell PowerFresh Pet Lift-Off 2-in-1 Steam Mop
5. BEST CANISTER MODEL: McCulloch MC1375 Canister Steam Cleaner
6. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner
7. BEST FOR SPOT CLEANING: Steamfast SF-210 Everyday Steam Cleaner
8. BEST ACCESSORIES: Costway Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner With Accessories

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

The following products are some of the best on the market for steam-cleaning upholstered furniture. We tested each, evaluating them for their design, water-tank capacities, power options, accessories, and versatility. These steam cleaners can help keep upholstered furniture fresh and clean.

Best Overall

Kiato Handheld Steam Cleaner

See It

What We Like

• Emits large amounts of steam
• Lightweight and comfortable to use
• Push-down steam-release button automatically turns off
• Removed coffee and wine stains

What We Don’t Like

• Smaller water tank lasts only 8 minutes
• Holding the steam-release button is cumbersome for large jobs

Product Specs 

• Type: Handheld steam cleaner
• Tank capacity: 450 milliliters (250 milliliters maximum load)
• Dimensions: 7.48 inches high by 5.03 inches wide by 9.84 inches deep
• Weight: 4.66 lbs

The Kiato handheld steam cleaner is a 10-in-1 tool designed to tackle hard and soft surfaces, including furniture, car interiors, tile, windows, and carpet. It features a lightweight design and a push-button steam release. It also comes with a 10-piece accessory kit that includes a fabric steamer and a microfiber sleeve to go on top.

This model heats up to 221 degrees Fahrenheit in 2 minutes and 30 seconds. After filling the water tank and securing the lid, you can plug this steamer in and wait for the LED light to go off. The unit is then ready for use. Using the Kiato handheld steamer is as simple as pressing the button to release steam. It automatically turns off when you let go of the button. Although it has a 450-milliliter tank capacity, you will only want to add 250 milliliters at a time.

We were impressed by how much steam the Kiato steam cleaner emitted. We used it to steam a microfiber recliner, clean a mattress, and loosen mineral deposits inside a dishwasher. When we put it up against household stains, it performed well, removing the coffee, dirt, and wine stains. It removed about 70 percent of the tomato sauce and some of the chocolate. Like the rest of the models, it didn’t work on oil.

The Kiato handheld steam cleaner was among the easiest to use, and its small size makes storage simple. It never felt uncomfortable, even when we used it for 15 minutes straight. Since it emits so much steam, it’s ideal for blasting stuck-on debris off hard surfaces.

Get the Kiato upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon.

Best Bang for the Buck

Bissell Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaner & Sanitizer

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What We Like

• The fabric steamer attachment left furniture looking clean and refreshed
• 10 accessories add to the product’s suitability for many household chores
• Easy to empty after use, and its compact size makes it easy to store

What We Don’t Like

• Curved-front design; tips forward when holding it
• Wasn’t able to remove chocolate, tomato sauce, or dirt stains

Product Specs 

• Type: Handheld steam cleaner
• Tank capacity: 6.6 ounces
• Dimensions: 8.5 inches high by 5 inches wide by 9.5 inches deep
• Weight: 4 lbs

The Bissell Steam Shot steam cleaner is an affordable handheld steam cleaner with 10 multisurface tools. The easy-to-attach accessories make it possible to refresh fabric, brush away grime from hard surfaces, clean windows, and scrub dirty grout. It kills up to 99.9 percent of bacteria and germs on hard surfaces.

The Bissell Steam Shot has only one steam setting, which makes it easy to use. Fill the tank with water, secure the lid, and plug it in. The heater warms in 30 seconds, and when the LED light turns off, the steamer is ready to use. It features a steam-release button that powers off when disengaged.

During testing, the Bissell Steam Shot worked well. It emitted enough steam to leave fabric looking refreshed and loosened dirt on hard surfaces for easy cleaning. The one thing we didn’t like was the curved-front design, which caused this model to lean forward slightly when holding it. It felt less stable than models without a curved design.

The Bissell Steam Shot removed wine and coffee stains during our testing. It only removed about 50 percent of the dirt, chocolate, and tomato sauce stains. While it works great for refreshing fabric and cleaning hard surfaces, it’s not our top pick for stain removal.

Get the Bissell Steam Shot upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon.

Best for Car Upholstery

Wagner 925E SteamMachine Elite Portable Steamer

See It

What We Like

• Performed the best in our stain test, removing dirt, coffee, wine, chocolate, and tomato sauce
• Long hose, wheeled design, and 20 attachments for easy and versatile use
• Canister features a built-in compartment for attachment storage, preventing items from getting lost
• Can use the trigger for steam release, or set it for continuous steam

What We Don’t Like

• Large tank capacity means a longer wait time for steam, taking up to 9 minutes
• We experienced some water spitting while steaming, causing excess moisture on the fabric

Product Specs 

• Type: Canister steam cleaner
• Tank capacity: 40 ounces
• Dimensions: 23 inches high by 19.5 inches wide by 23 inches deep
• Weight: 8.31 lbs

The Wagner SteamMachine Elite steam cleaner features a canister design and 20 attachments. Its large 40-ounce water tank provides up to 40 minutes of continuous steam. This powerful steamer can tackle almost any job, from vehicle carpet and upholstery to dirty barbecue grills.

The 8-foot steam hose and wheeled design make this model easy to maneuver. The canister design also features attachment storage, which helps keep accessories from getting lost.

Getting started is as simple as installing an attachment, filling the water tank, securing the lid, and turning the machine on. After about 9 minutes, it produces large amounts of steam that you can control via a trigger. The trigger has two settings: press release or continuous steam.

The Wagner SteamMachine Elite was one of our favorite models due to its ease of use and efficacy. It performed the best in our stain test, breaking down the wine, coffee, and dirt. It also removed about 90 percent of the tomato sauce and chocolate stains.

This model contains a fabric steamer with a bonnet and a carpet glider. We used both to refresh the fabric interior of a truck. We also tested it on hard surfaces, including a toilet. The steam blasted stuck-on dirt from hard-to-reach nooks and crannies.

Get the Wagner upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Best for Versatility

Bissell PowerFresh Pet Lift-Off 2-in-1 Steam Mop

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What We Like

• Multipurpose cleaning tool; comes with 13 accessories and works on a variety of surfaces
• Kills 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria; great for homes with kids and pets
• Easy to switch from mopping to the handheld attachments for easy whole-house cleaning

What We Don’t Like

• Somewhat small tank capacity; needs refilling during larger cleaning jobs
• Handheld steamer spat water and didn’t remove stains as well as other models

Product Specs 

• Type: Handheld steamer and floor mop
• Tank capacity: 13.5 ounces
• Dimensions: 44.7 inches high by 11.14 inches wide by 13.2 inches deep
• Weight: 10.6 pounds

This steam-cleaning unit from Bissell is designed with versatility in mind. In its fully assembled form, it functions as a heavy-duty floor mop. Alternatively, you can detach the canister and deploy it along with the extension hose and attachments to steam-clean upholstery, pet beds, bathroom and kitchen fixtures, and a variety of other surfaces.

An included tool bag holds a set of 13 accessories for a broad array of cleaning applications. The included fabric-steamer attachment works especially well with the handheld portion of this steam cleaner for cleansing, deodorizing, and sanitizing upholstery.

Water in the 13.5-ounce tank heats up quickly, producing steam that kills up to 99.9 percent of germs and bacteria. The 25-foot-long power cord facilitates steam cleaning of even the most hard-to-reach places.

For testing, we started by using this steam cleaner as a mop, and it worked well, leaving our floors clean and streak-free. Next, we tested the handheld canister on our stain board using the fabric steamer attachment and dabbing the stain with a microfiber cloth. It tackled the dirt, wine, and coffee stains but wasn’t a match for the chocolate or tomato sauce. The handheld steamer spat water more than other models, preventing the steam from being as powerful or continuous.

Even though this steam mop didn’t perform as well in our stain-removal tests, it did a good job overall. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a versatile steam mop with a lift-off canister. However, folks who want just an upholstery steamer might fare better with a different option.

Get the Bissell PowerFresh upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon, Target, Bissell, or Walmart.

Best Canister Model

McCulloch MC1375 Canister Steam Cleaner

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What We Like

• Delivers up to 90 minutes of power, which is enough for most upholstery cleaning
• Variable steam-flow system with an easy-to-control knob; up to 58-psi steam pressure
• 20 accessories work on a variety of surfaces; great for tough stains or general cleaning
• Users can control steam via the trigger or lock it in place for continuous steam

What We Don’t Like

• Water takes time to heat up; can become frustrating when refilling during long cleaning jobs
• Using the steamer at its highest power results in a lot of moisture on upholstery

Product Specs 

• Type: Canister steam cleaner
• Tank capacity: 48 ounces
• Dimensions: 10.5 inches high by 12.13 inches wide by 15.55 inches deep
• Weight: 10.78 pounds

Thanks to its canister design, this steamer houses a large-capacity water tank that delivers up to 90 minutes of continuous steam-cleaning power. The tank holds 48 ounces of regular tap water, and it heats to more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit in under 12 minutes.

The on-demand variable steam-flow system allows users to dial in an exact steam flow from low pressure up to 58 pounds per square inch (psi). Accessing hard-to-reach spaces is easy thanks to an 18-foot power cord and a 7-foot steam hose.

With 20 included accessories, this unit can take on a multitude of house-cleaning tasks. In addition to refreshing upholstery, this steamer works on ceramic tile, sealed flooring, grout, and more.

The McCulloch blasted through dirt, coffee, and red wine stains during testing. It also did the best on oil, eliminating about 50 percent of the stain. Since this model doesn’t come with a dedicated fabric steamer attachment, we used the jet nozzle to steam the soiled areas and then dabbed them with a microfiber cloth. Doing so was effective, lifting dirt and leaving the fabric looking refreshed.

The McCulloch came with a bag for its attachments, which helped us keep everything together. Since the canister is on wheels, it was also easy for us to maneuver. We used the jet nozzle to spray around a sink faucet, and it loosened stuck-on dirt and some of the mineral deposits. This model came with many more attachments, including a mophead. It emitted a large amount of steam, making it ideal for household and heavy-duty jobs.

Get the McCulloch upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon or Walmart.

Best Heavy-Duty

Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner

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What We Like

• Compact and modern design stores easily in a small space
• Delivers an impressive 50 minutes of continuous steam for tackling large jobs
• Performed well in our stain test, removing dirt, wine, and coffee from microsuede
• Mop glides smoothly for easy and streak-free floor cleaning

What We Don’t Like

• Some water spits out before the steam, which can saturate upholstery

Product Specs 

• Type: Canister steam cleaner
• Tank capacity: 54 ounces
• Dimensions: 9.5 inches high by 10.5 inches wide by 10.5 inches long
• Weight: 9 pounds

When it comes to taking on big cleaning jobs, this large-capacity steam cleaner should do the trick. Thanks to the portable cube-shaped unit that combines an impressive 54-ounce water tank, 16-foot-long power cord, and 6.5-foot-long steam hose, the Dupray steamer is capable of delivering 50 minutes of continuous steam with ample maneuverability to reach furniture and surfaces throughout the home. The wheels on this steam cleaner allow for smooth rolling from room to room, and a retractable handle makes carrying this 9-pound unit a breeze.

Water in the tank heats to 275 degrees Fahrenheit, producing steam that kills 99.9 percent of bacteria, viruses, and pathogens in upholstery, bedding, and other household surfaces.

When we unboxed the Dupray Neat steam cleaner, we were immediately impressed by the quality. The attachments felt well constructed and the fabric steamer’s microfiber bonnet was much thicker than those from other models. We also liked the unique modern aesthetic and the cord storage on the bottom of the cube.

When we put this model to the test, it blasted through dirt, coffee, and wine stains on our microsuede fabric. It did OK on the tomato sauce and chocolate stains, eliminating about 50 percent of the soiled area. We also tested the mop attachment, which glided smoothly across our hardwood floors, picking up dirt and leaving the floors streak-free.

Get the Dupray upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best for Spot Cleaning

Steamfast SF-210 Everyday Steam Cleaner

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What We Like

• Compact, lightweight unit is comfortable to use and ideal for cleaning tight spaces
• Includes 6 attachments that are easy to connect and can tackle most cleaning jobs
• Budget-friendly price point compared to similar options; a good beginner option

What We Don’t Like

• Runs for only 8 minutes; not suitable for extended use
• Was the only steamer unable to remove a dirt stain from our microsuede test fabric

Product Specs 

• Type: Handheld steam cleaner
• Tank capacity: 6 ounces
• Dimensions: 8.25 inches high by 5.5 inches wide by 10.5 inches deep
• Weight: 2.6 pounds

When those everyday oops moments occur, this convenient steam cleaner makes short work of sanitizing household surfaces, including upholstery. The 6-ounce water tank heats up in just 3 minutes, producing 8 minutes of pressurized steam for removing dirt and grime.

Despite its small size—it weighs just 2.6 pounds—this handheld cleaner is surprisingly versatile. Use one of the six included attachments for cleaning upholstered furniture as well as a wide array of hard surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms. A 12.5-foot-long power cord allows for easy maneuverability, while the 28-inch extension hose offers even greater capacity for reaching out-of-the-way surfaces and overlooked crevices.

While it performed the worst in our stain removal tests, this model is still handy for quick fabric refreshes and sanitizing hard surfaces. The Steamfast steam cleaner was able to remove wine, coffee, and tomato sauce from our test fabric but failed to remove dirt, chocolate, or oil.

This steamer is easy to use. It has only one setting, so after filling it with water, all we had to do was plug it in and wait for it to warm up. In addition to steaming upholstery, we used it to steam inside an oven, and it successfully loosened up most of the stuck-on food. The small size makes it easy to store—great for those short on space.

Get the Steamfast upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Walmart.

Best Accessories

Costway Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner With Accessories

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What We Like

• Multipurpose tool that comes with 18 cleaning accessories to tackle most jobs
• Unit has 2 large wheels and a 79-inch hose, making it easy to maneuver
• Includes an organized cable-management system to wind around neatly when not in use

What We Don’t Like

• Lower steam pressure may struggle with more stubborn stains
• No indicator light to signal when the steam is ready for use

Product Specs 

• Type: Canister steam cleaner and floor mop
• Tank capacity: 51 ounces
• Dimensions: 14 inches high by 17 inches wide by 11 inches deep
• Weight: 10.8 pounds

This multipurpose steam cleaner includes 18 attachments for taking on a variety of cleaning tasks around the home. When it comes to cleaning upholstery, the steam jet nozzle and nylon brushes are especially helpful. Functional accessories such as a mophead, brass utility brushes, a scrubbing pad, and a squeegee facilitate cleaning and sanitizing not only upholstery, but also sealed floors, bathroom tile, kitchen appliances, and children’s toys.

The 16-foot power cord and 79-inch steam hose, as well as the wheels, a rolling caster, and ergonomically designed curved handle, offer ample maneuverability for reaching numerous surfaces in the home. In addition to removing dirt, grime, spills, and messes, this steam cleaner sanitizes household surfaces. Unseen and undesirable intruders such as germs, bacteria, viruses, mold spores, and bed bugs are no match for the 226 degree Fahrenheit pressurized steam.

The Costway steam cleaner holds 51 ounces of water in its tank, heating it to produce steam in under 10 minutes. It delivers 40 minutes of continuous steam-cleaning time.

Like the other canister models we tested, the Costway steam cleaner produced large amounts of steam and was better able to power through stains than handheld options. It eliminated dirt, coffee, and wine from our test fabric. While it didn’t completely eliminate tomato sauce or chocolate, it visibly reduced the stained areas.

This model comes with many useful accessories, including a mop and carpet glider. We used the carpet glider to refresh fabric seats and carpet in an old truck and tested the mop on tile floors. The attachments were easy to use, and the mop left the floor clean. We also tried out the trigger that locks in place for continuous steam.

Get the Costway upholstery steam cleaner at Amazon or The Home Depot.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Upholstery Steam Cleaners

We researched the best upholstery steam cleaners with high customer satisfaction in a variety of categories. After compiling our list, we tested each model. Our tests consisted of using each upholstery steam cleaner on furniture, mattresses, and car upholstery to evaluate the ease of use. We then put all models through a more extensive test, assessing how well they could remove six common stains: dirt, vegetable oil, tomato sauce, red wine, coffee, and chocolate sauce.

We assembled a test board consisting of foam, batting, and microsuede fabric attached to plywood. We added ⅛ teaspoon of each test substance to the board and allowed it to dry for an hour. We then used each steam cleaner to remove the stains. If the steam cleaner came with an upholstery steamer and microfiber bonnet, we used it for stain removal. For models that didn’t come with an upholstery steamer bonnet, we relied on the jet nozzle to steam the stain and then dabbed it with a microfiber cloth. These methods were equally effective.

No steam cleaner was able to remove the oil stain, but all had varying degrees of success with the other substances. The biggest factor in stain removal was the amount of steam the machine emitted.

We also evaluated any extra attachments, how easy it was to empty and store each model, and how effective the steamers were for other household surfaces. We assigned and tracked number values for easy comparison.

What to Consider When Choosing an Upholstery Steam Cleaner

Before purchasing an upholstery steam cleaner, it’s essential to consider what your needs are. Manufacturers offer a wide array of types, sizes, water-tank capacities, attachments, and accessories, each with their own benefits and optimal uses. Ahead, learn about the features that may influence your selection process as you search for the best upholstery steam cleaner to suit your purposes.

Type

Steam cleaners that work well for upholstery materials are versatile and capable of taking on many other cleaning tasks around the house. Depending on the type, steam cleaners tackle dirt, grime, and messes on both soft and hard surfaces, indoors and outdoors. Here’s an overview of the types of steam cleaners available on the market, along with information about how they function for cleaning upholstery.

• Handheld steam cleaners make upholstery cleaning easy as you simply hold the steamer units adjacent to the upholstered furniture and move them along the surface.
• Vacuum-type steam cleaners facilitate the cleaning of floors and carpets, but many of them feature reconfiguration capability, breaking down into handheld units that work well for upholstery. Users move the handheld units along the surface of upholstery fabric for cleaning.
• Vapor steam cleaners utilize steam from water heated to at least 240 to 260 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in a low-moisture vapor that leaves minimal residual dampness. Vapor steam cleaners utilize higher temperatures than many other steam cleaners do.
• Cylinder steam cleaners (also known as canister steam cleaners) feature steam hoses attached to the rolling cylinders or canisters that hold large-capacity water tanks for extended steam-cleaning time. Attachments for the steam hoses facilitate upholstery cleaning as you move them along the surface.
• Garment steam cleaners feature handheld nozzles on the ends of steam hoses that attach to water tanks. The steam loosens and lifts dirt, deodorizes, and freshens upholstery fabrics on furniture as well as clothing.

Size and Weight

Consider how you plan on using your steam cleaner to determine the ideal size and weight. Larger and heavier models offer the capacity for heavy-duty cleaning and extensive cleaning sessions, while small and lightweight units offer the advantages of portability and convenience for quick cleanups.

For example, canister models are considerably larger and weigh more than handheld steam cleaners, but they offer the advantage of large-capacity water tanks that deliver continuous steam for anywhere between 30 and 90 minutes. On the other hand, a small handheld steamer weighs much less than a canister or vacuum type, but it holds less water and produces steam for only a few minutes before it requires refilling.

Corded vs. Cordless

Steam cleaners operate on corded electrical power from standard household outlets. After the electrical power source heats the water in the cleaner’s water tank to above 212 degrees Fahrenheit, creating steam, the pressurized steam is forced through a hose or a nozzle, delivering powerful cleaning action to household surfaces.

Some steam cleaners include extra-long power cords for enhanced maneuverability, allowing you to access hard-to-reach places throughout the home for cleaning and sanitizing. Since steam cleaners draw a large amount of electricity, there are currently no cordless options.

Power and Runtime

Battery runtime is associated with the volume of water held in the steam cleaners’ tanks. Larger water tanks in canister models may produce steam for up to 90 minutes of continuous cleaning. Alternatively, the small water tanks in lightweight, handheld steam cleaners produce enough steam for approximately 8 to 10 minutes of runtime. Of course, the tanks may be refilled as often as necessary for continuous cleaning.

Heating time is another feature to consider. Related to the volume capacity of the water tanks and the power of the heating elements, heating times vary from approximately 30 seconds to 12 minutes. A faster heating time means that the water converts to steam more quickly, allowing you to jump right into the task at hand.

Steam Settings

In the process of selecting the best steam cleaner for upholstery, shoppers may also want to consider their needs for a steamer that is capable of accomplishing other cleaning tasks. Many steam cleaners offer versatility via low-, medium-, and high-steam pressure settings. Users can adjust the settings to facilitate cleaning various surfaces and accomplishing either light freshening jobs or the tough removal of stuck-on dirt, grime, and stains.

Cleaning upholstery requires low to medium steam pressure, depending on the type of fabric and the degree of soil. Delicate upholstery fabric should be steam-cleaned on the lowest steam setting. Thicker, more durable fabric can tolerate a medium steam setting, especially if tough stains and stuck-on messes present cleaning challenges. Manufacturers of some steam cleaners recommend their use on leather upholstery, but you’ll want to check manufacturers’ information before using steam cleaners on leather furniture.

Alternatively, you can adjust the steam pressure settings to medium or high for cleaning hard surfaces. High-pressure steam works well on tile, grout, granite, stainless steel, and sealed flooring. Keep in mind that using a high-pressure setting will cause the steam to run out more quickly, resulting in the need to refill the water tank.

Tank Capacity

Every steam cleaner contains a water tank with a heating element that heats the water above 212 degrees Fahrenheit to produce steam. Handheld units include tanks that generally hold about 6 to 8 ounces of water for steam production. These are lightweight and easy to handle, but they produce steam for only about 8 to 10 minutes before the small water tanks run dry. Handheld steam cleaners are ideal for quick touch-ups and brief everyday cleaning chores.

On the other hand, users sometimes need to tackle cleaning jobs that require extended steam- producing runtimes. For these tasks, larger steam cleaners with increased water-tank capacities fill the bill.

Canister or cylinder steam cleaners feature larger water tanks that usually hold about 40 to 54 ounces of water. Heating the larger volumes of water to build up steam, these types of steam cleaners can deliver up to 90 minutes of continuous steam for extended cleaning sessions.

Maneuverability

When steam-cleaning upholstery, you’ll want to maneuver the steam-releasing units over and under the curved surfaces of furniture and into cracks and crevices. For this reason, steam cleaners with long power cords as well as extension hoses with easy-to-hold nozzles make the job easier. Maneuverability is a particularly valuable feature for reaching into a vehicle to clean car interiors, which are susceptible to accumulating dirt and debris.

Some steam cleaners offer power cords up to 18 feet long and steam hoses up to 8 feet long. With these features, you can direct the steam to hard-to-reach places for accurate targeting of dirt and grime.

A canister or a cylinder steam cleaner with a long extension hose allows you to reach into nooks and crannies. Alternatively, a lightweight handheld steamer with a long power cord provides up-close and targeted cleaning power.

Attachments

Many steam cleaners include attachments to facilitate cleaning a variety of objects and materials. Some common attachments include steam hoses, straight nozzles, angled nozzles, metal brushes, nylon brushes, window squeegees, mop pads, and scrapers.

For steam-cleaning upholstery, nylon brushes, steam hoses, and angled nozzles work particularly well, allowing you to maneuver the steam over, under, and around curved surfaces.

Shoppers looking for steam cleaners that can accomplish a range of cleaning jobs beyond sanitizing upholstery will want to take note of what attachments, if any, are included with each available steam cleaner.

FAQs

Q. What surfaces can a steam cleaner be used on?

Steam cleaners can be used on both hard and soft household surfaces, including upholstery, clothing, sealed flooring, ceramic tile, grout, stainless steel, and more.

Q. Do upholstery steam cleaners utilize chemicals?

No. The primary reason for using steam cleaners is that the cleaning action comes from pressurized steam created by heated water, which contains zero cleaning solutions or chemicals.

Q. Should hot or cold water be put in a steam cleaner?

Pour cold water into the tank of the steam cleaner. The heating element will heat the water to produce steam.

Q. Does steam-cleaning kill bugs?

Yes. Steam cleaning kills bed bugs on the surface of mattresses and bedding as well as those embedded ¾ inch deep into the fabric surfaces.

Q. How long should upholstery be steam-cleaned?

Hold the steamer nozzle on the upholstered surface to release the steam, but keep it moving. Don’t hold the nozzle in one place so long that the upholstery becomes damp.

Meet the Tester

Katie Barton has more than 10 years of experience in product writing, has tested dozens of cleaning products, and has authored hundreds of articles for major media outlets. Her cleaning and organizing advice has been featured on a variety of popular home and finance websites. She takes an unbiased approach to product testing, using each product multiple times or for several days to determine efficacy. Her goal is to help readers decide which products are worth their hard-earned money and which fall flat.

Additional research provided by Carol Benton.

The post We Tested the Best Upholstery Steam Cleaners for Chemical-Free Sanitizing appeared first on Bob Vila.

Although best known for its DIYer-friendly electric power tools, Ryobi actually makes a pretty diverse portfolio of products. Over the years, the brand ventured into the world of vacuums with its cordless stick, handheld, and wet/dry vac (which we tested and consider one of the better compact wet/dry vacs). Now, this March 2025, Ryobi will expand its cleaning line even more to include its new and improved handheld pool vacuum. 

Powered by the brand’s flagship 18V One+ battery system, the handheld pool vacuum boasts a hose-free design, which means no more fighting with bulky and tangled hoses. The vacuum, instead, suctions everything into the removable debris tank. If you’re like me and have experienced frustration over tangled hoses while cleaning a pool, that’s quite a helpful upgrade! For greater reach, the handheld vacuum can also be used with a standard pool pole. The vacuum has an IPX8 rating and is submersible up to 13 feet. With a suction power of 13 gallons per minute and a wide inlet, this powerful handheld vacuum will make quick work of dirt and debris, including leaves. The large 1.7-liter tank will also allow pool owners to clean more before having to empty the tank. 

The Ryobi 18V One+ pool vacuum will be available for $149 (tool only) or $179 (as a kit with 18V lithium battery) exclusively at The Home Depot. 

Ryobi wading into the waters of pool and hot tub cleaning is a pleasant surprise. Although, honestly, I’m not too shocked by the launch after having seen Ryobi launch everything from power scrubbers to coolers in recent years. It’s clear that Ryobi is on a mission to make its impressive rechargeable batteries even more versatile and useful for the average homeowner by adding these outdoor, cleaning, and even recreational gadgets to the collection.  The flagship One+ line includes more than 300 handy products that can run on 18V One+ batteries! So if you don’t already have a collection, maybe this is your sign to start one.

The post This Major Power Tool Brand Wants to Help You Clean Your Pool appeared first on Bob Vila.

Fun to say and simple to use, squeegees are your shower’s best friend. By ridding your bathing area of excess moisture, the best shower squeegees can prevent mold, mildew, water spots, rust stains, bug infestations, and more. These cleaning gadgets have blades that slick water off of glass doors and tiled walls without scratching the surfaces.

Squeegees are traditionally made of stainless steel with rubberized blades. However, squeegees made of newer materials, like high-performance silicone, are game changers and safe for all surfaces. Save yourself time and energy on bathroom cleanup with one of these labor-saving selections that we tested. Our favorite of the bunch was the Gütewerk Shower Squeegee, with its ergonomic handle in a simple and modern design.

1. BEST OVERALL: Gütewerk High Performance Shower Squeegee
2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Foshio Rubber Shower Squeegee With Extra Blade
3. BEST DOUBLE-SIDED: DSV Long-Handled Window and Shower Squeegee
4. BEST FOR GLASS: Desired Tools All-Purpose Silicone Shower Squeegee
5. BEST FOR TILE: Richmirth Silicone Shower Squeegee

Product Comparison

Our Top Picks

From sleek silicone-coated squeegees to classic stainless steel, these top picks are some of the best in their category. In addition to testing these products for safety and versatility, we tested them for the most important result: a streak-free shower.

Best Overall

Gütewerk High Performance Shower Squeegee

See It

What We Like

• Handle is both nonslip and ergonomic
• Multiple ways to store this squeegee
• Available in multiple colors
• Simple modern design

What We Don’t Like

• Blade is not replaceable

Product Specs

• Blade width: 9 inches
• Storage: Suction cup, hanger, and hook
• Additional features: Ergonomic handle

Cleaning in a rush or dealing with hard or mineralized water? The Gütewerk high-performance shower squeegee is an excellent choice. Minimalist and sleek in appearance, Gütewerk’s shower squeegee is pure streamlined functionality. With an ergonomic design unrivaled in comparable products, the Gütewerk squeegee fits comfortably in the hand. The stainless steel core is coated in high-performance food-grade silicone. This design ensures a nonslip grip and also prevents potential damage on the off chance the squeegee falls onto a hard surface.

The soft 9-inch silicone blade glides easily over glass, tile, wood, metal, and more, wicking away moisture and leaving a clean surface behind. We loved that it is comfortable to handle and compact in size, making it ideal for apartment storage. Just keep in mind that while the silicone blade slides fast and smoothly, moving the water down the glass, it didn’t necessarily collect water or dirt on the bottom as well as some other options on this list. If it is being used to get rid of dirt, especially on a windshield or mirror, it will likely need to be trailed with a microfiber cloth or rag.

This squeegee comes with a suction hook so that it can be hung easily in a shower stall. This stylish model is also useful for auto and general household cleanup.

Get the Gütewerk shower squeegee at Amazon.

Best Bang for the Buck

Foshio Rubber Shower Squeegee With Extra Blade

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What We Like

• Thick and durable blade
• Removable and replaceable blade
• Compact design
• Great size for smaller spaces

What We Don’t Like

• Short blade width
• Handle is short, too

Product Specs

• Blade width: 5.11 inches
• Storage: None
• Additional features: Replaceable blade

This pint-size squeegee provides full-size results. A great choice for road trips, RVs, and keeping excess water off kitchen counters, mirrors, tub walls, and more, the Foshio squeegee easily fits inside a standard car’s glove box.

Well designed with a sturdy beveled rubber blade, Foshio’s portable shower squeegee also features a nonslip screw-in handle, making it an ergonomic choice that’s comfortable to use. Unlike softer silicone blades, Foshio’s blade is rigid and easily cleans glass and other polished surfaces. It can also be useful for removing dirt and soap scum without using too much extra elbow grease.

Because of its brightly colored blades, which are available in a variety of colors including blue, green, turquoise, and yellow, this squeegee is a fun option for kids’ bathrooms. While it could certainly be used in larger spaces, it’s a bit small and the job may take longer than anticipated.

The only issue we had during testing was swapping out the old blade for the additionally included blade; it’s not clear how to swap out the old one. Still, the blade is durable and the price is low enough to justify simply replacing it when necessary.

Get the Foshio shower squeegee at Amazon.

Best Double Sided

DSV Long-Handled Window and Shower Squeegee

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What We Like

• Extendable handle
• Lightweight and easy to use
• Ideal for washing as well as drying
• Great for windows and other hard-surfaces
• Useful for tiles as well as grout

What We Don’t Like

• Can smell if left out wet
• Handle is a bit hard to unlock at first

Product Specs

• Blade width: 8 inches
• Storage: Hanging hole
• Additional features: Telescoping handle, rotating head, double-sided

There’s a reason that gas stations prefer dual-sided squeegees; wetness and gunk can be scraped off the windshield and then the other side can be used to dry the glass surface for a perfect, spotless shine. To achieve the same spotlessness at home, try DSV’s professional all-purpose window squeegee.

With an 8-inch soft rubber blade on one side and a nylon-netted sponge on the other, showers (and other hard surfaces) can be clean and dry in no time. The handle also telescopes, which we found made it easier to access hard-to-reach spots without a step stool. Great for larger showers, poolside cabanas, and bathing areas with lots of hard surfaces to keep clean and dry, the DSV can also be used in kitchens, for window washing, and to clean cars.

We found this squeegee made cleanup fast and easy, passing all of our tests with impressive scores. The mesh netting over the sponge was particularly helpful for lifting dirt and grime from tiles and grout, so it is truly a multiuse product. Use it to clean the bathtub, shower stalls, and even the sink.

Because it has such a long handle, we found it to be a smart choice for those days when we didn’t want to get on our hands and knees and scrub. While it is a bit pricier than other options, all of its features make it worth the extra cost.

Get the DSV shower squeegee at Amazon or Walmart. 

Best For Glass

Desired Tools All-Purpose Silicone Shower Squeegee

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What We Like

• Handle is very comfortable to use
• Extra blades included
• Compact and easy to store away
• Scratch-free materials good for ceramic, porcelain, and tile

What We Don’t Like

• The blade is relatively short

Product Specs

• Blade width: 7.7 inches
• Storage: Hanging hole
• Additional features: Soft padded handle

Cleaning glass isn’t easy. Fortunately, the Desired Tools all-purpose silicone shower squeegee makes it feel almost effortless. We found this was also one of the most maneuverable options on the list because of the foam grip. We were impressed at how well this squeegee passed every test, making it a fantastic tool for all types of surfaces whether it’s glass, tiles, or even mirrors.

Paired with the soft yet sturdy silicone blade that won’t scratch or damage shiny surfaces, the squeegee also has a comfy grip. While using it, we found the action of the blade to be so smooth that it only needed the smallest amount of elbow grease to clean shower doors, mirrors, and windows.

It wicks away even the smallest drops with precision, leaving a clean, dry surface behind. Best of all, this compact squeegee comes with two replacement blades, each nearly 8 inches in length, ensuring the glass will be clean and streak-free for a long time to come.

This compact squeegee is also smartly designed with a hole in the handle; it easily fits on an adhesive hook inside a cabinet, on a shower shelf, or on a hook affixed to the bathroom wall.

Get the Desired Tools shower squeegee at Amazon or Walmart. 

Best For Tile

Richmirth Silicone Shower Squeegee

See It

What We Like

• Won’t damage surfaces like porcelain, marble, or ceramic
• There are no seams that will collect dirt on the blade
• Multiple sizes available

What We Don’t Like

• The handle makes a squeaking sound
• Handle is quite short

Product Specs

• Blade width: 9 inches
• Storage: Hook
• Additional features: Non-scratching material

For tile that can potentially be scratched or damaged, a squeegee blade with an ultra-close yet gentle touch is best. We found that Richmirth’s 100 percent BPA-free silicone-based squeegee glides smoothly over tile without a hitch and can clean an entire shower wall in just four swipes.

The rubberized blade is flexible, which means it can handle rippled surfaces and grout lines with ease. Unlike stainless steel–handled squeegees, this one won’t damage tile made from stone, porcelain, ceramic; wood flooring; or tub surfaces if it is dropped. Richmirth’s squeegee also performs well in extreme weather conditions. Stash it in a glove box to remove excess moisture from the windshield on chilly winter days. In the bathroom, store it with the included silicone hook which fits snugly over shower doors that are 0.45- to 1-inch thick.

We were impressed at how well this squeegee performed on all of our tests. However, there is one minor caveat. We found the squeegee squeaks as it cleans, which could be potentially irritating to some users. However, it cleans everything incredibly well, especially tile and tile grout. It lifted soap scum off without using too much elbow grease.

Get the Richmirth shower squeegee at Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Shower Squeegees

Before deciding on our products to test, we interviewed some cleaning experts to see if they could offer us any insights to this relatively simple bathroom cleaning tool. We were surprised to learn from Aaron Christensen, the Vice President of Homeaglow, a home cleaning service that operates nationwide, that “shower squeegees are the most effective tool for controlling high germ areas” thanks to their ability to quickly wipe away standing water and grease from bathroom surfaces. Christensen also recommends rubber or silicone blades for best results. WIth this in mind, we set out to get our hands on a range of options to see how they stand up to real world testing.

After unboxing the products, we made sure each squeegee came with all of its included accessories such as extra blades and storage hooks. For squeegees with extension rods, we made sure the rods functioned properly.

We tested each squeegee on a shower door to remove water and then with a few sprays of glass cleaner. We took note of how each squeegee felt in the hand, its maneuverability, and how it functioned to remove the water. Did it require a lot of elbow grease? How easily did the blade pivot? Did the door appear to be cleaner after using the squeegee? Finally, we checked to see if each squeegee left streaks or residue. We repeated the same tests on a tiled wall, a mirror, and a car windshield.

We also spoke with Diana Ciechorska, the General Manager of Park Slope Cleaning in Brooklyn New York, who recommended shoppers think about their specific bathroom surfaces and purchase accordingly. “Match your squeegee to your surface. Soft blades for glass, tougher ones for tiles.” Our own research also found a deceptively wide range of features that shoppers may wish to consider before purchasing the right squeegee. Our extensive list of options comes with a range of useful features, including varying blade lengths and storage options, to suit a variety of user preferences. We also made sure to include several picks made from different materials, from soft and lightweight silicone to durable stainless steel.

We found longevity to be an issue with some squeegees on the market, so those on our list of recommendations are made from durable materials, and most even have the ability to replace the rubber blade to keep the squeegee in top condition for several years.

What to Consider When Choosing a Shower Squeegee

The modern household squeegee was patented in 1936, and the same basic design is still in use today. However, newer materials like silicone are replacing rubberized blades and becoming the squeegee of choice in many people’s showers, cars, and utility closets. Whichever squeegee style shoppers choose, they will want to figure out how they’ll use it and where they’ll hang it before they buy one.

Intended Use and Versatility

All squeegees have one main purpose: to rid hard surfaces of water and moisture. Beyond that, squeegees can be specialized for different types of surfaces, including walls, windows, and floors. On the whole, squeegees work best on smooth surfaces, like glass, fiberglass, and thermoformed acrylic tubs. They can also be used on rippled and tiled surfaces as long as the blade isn’t too stiff or sharp.

For walls, doors, countertops, and mirrors, short-handled squeegees work best. Long-handled models are designed for cleaning floors and washing upper-story windows. For an even drier, shinier shower, try a double-sided squeegee. Similar to those found at gas stations for cleaning windshields, these have both a soft buffing edge and stiff waterproof blade. Double-sided models are great for window washing and, of course, cleaning a car windshield.

Handle and Blade Type

Traditional squeegees have a plastic or stainless steel handle. Some brands have cushioned and ergonomic handles that are more comfortable to hold. Both sleek and functional, silicone-coated squeegees are growing in popularity. The blade—the part of the squeegee that glides over a surface and collects water—is made of either natural or synthetic rubber or silicone.

Rubber and silicone blades each have their benefits. Rubber is ultradurable though stiff, which is why rubber blades are the best choice for floors and smooth, flat surfaces. Silicone blades are softer and more flexible, enabling them to better maneuver over tiled and rippled surfaces. Silicone blades are also safe and effective on glass, tile, mirrors, and more. Count on a spotless finish every time.

Size and Weight

Squeegee blades usually range from 6 to 12 inches in length. Small handheld squeegees have relatively short handles (about 5.5 inches in length), which some folks may find difficult to grip. Models with longer handles (6.5 inches and up) are also available. In terms of weight, shower squeegees should be about half a pound, though some compact models are even lighter.

The best shower squeegee for a particular shopper is one that is heavy enough to provide firm contact with shower and bathroom surfaces but light enough to wield without causing strain. Stainless steel handles tend to be heavier, with plastic and silicone being lighter options. A silicone squeegee is a safe choice for tiled, wooden, and natural stone surfaces as it won’t accidentally cause chips, scratches, or damage if it’s dropped.

Mounting Type

Many shower squeegees come with suction-cup hooks or shower-door hooks so they can be mounted in the shower easily. Suction hooks are easy to install; simply moisten and then press against a clean, dry, smooth surface. On the downside, suction cups can lose their gripping power over time.

Hooks that hang over the shower door are durable and long lasting, but be sure to measure the hooks to make sure they fit the stall. Some squeegee brands provide several different types of mounting equipment as well as replacement blades in their packaging.

FAQs

Q. What are squeegees used for? 

Squeegees are used to remove excess water and moisture from hard, flat surfaces.

Q. How do you use a shower squeegee?

Slide along a flat surface with even, firm pressure. Direct the collected water into the drain.

Q. When should you replace a shower squeegee?

Many squeegees have replaceable blades, so you can keep the handle and swap out the blade when it no longer collects water efficiently. Prevent blade mold and handle rust through proper care and by keeping your squeegee dry.

The post Keep Shower Stains at Bay With the 5 Best Shower Squeegees Tested appeared first on Bob Vila.