Steamer

[Sleper]

Looking to purchase a steamer in the new year and wondering what you all use and recommend? I am a weekend warrier and do some detailing on the side so price is a huge factor. I currently own a extractor and just looking for added benefits of a steamer Thanks for the time jon

[wendell jarvis]

try the Little Green steamer..at Target and Wal-Mart $100.00

[BobbyG]

This is the one I have and I`ll bet both are very similar. I bought mine at Best Buy for about $100.00

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s225/BobbyG53/Detailing/AutoCareProHeat.jpg

[Pats300zx]

Here is the one that I picked up back when it was on sale at Amazon for $50.00 shipped.

Amazon.com: McCulloch MC-1275 Heavy-Duty Steam Cleaner: Home & Garden (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000DF0RB/ref=asc_df_B0000DF0RB1809347?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=asn&creative=395093&creativeASIN=B0000DF0RB)

Perfect for my weekend needs.

[TroyScherer]

This one has been recommended to me highly by Richy...

Steam Cleaner Kit (http://www.harborfreight.com/steam-cleaner-kit-8823.html)

[Jokeman]

I have the McCulloch. Its decent at best. If you are going to spend some money get a VX5000($800). My wife uses it around the house all the time. Cleans hardwood floors, tile grout, etc. I use it to clean the wifes jewelery so that keeps her happy. I actually dont use it on the cars as much as I thought I would. I wasnt that impressed with it on cars. When the McCulloch dies Ill step up to a VX5000.

[RaskyR1]

I have the McCulloch. Its decent at best. If you are going to spend some money get a VX5000($800). My wife uses it around the house all the time. Cleans hardwood floors, tile grout, etc. I use it to clean the wifes jewelery so that keeps her happy. I actually dont use it on the cars as much as I thought I would. I wasnt that impressed with it on cars. When the McCulloch dies Ill step up to a VX5000.

What do you use the McCulloch for on cars now? :)

[Greg Nichols]

I own the VX5000 vapor master, i`ve had it for a three years and I love it for carpets, vents, door jambs, little crevices, drink holders........

Cheers,
GREG

[glfahlc]

i own the vc3000 and am quite impressed with its abilities on the cars and around the house. not quite as expensive as the 5000 but better for weekend warriors IMO.

[Blindman]

I own 2 steamers but I really don`t even use them that much. Spot clean up`s in car or home. Walmart stuff.

[TroyScherer]

So what steamer would people recommend for the weekend personal detailer?

[doctordon]

Steamers and extractors are two different machines. I believe the original poster stated he already owns an extractor.

Some of the important things to look for in a steamer are the attachments and what they allow you to clean, size of the water tank, and length of hose. If you can find a steamer with a hose longer than 6 feet you will appreciate the fact that you can reach into a car and clean it easily without having to put the steamer in the car with you.

Depending on the vehicle you`re cleaning (and its condition), a larger water tank will allow you to clean the entire vehicle without having to wait for the unit to cool down so you can refill the tank. My steamer holds 3 1/3 quarts of water and can do an Excursion without refilling. Here`s a tip: use distilled water in the steamer to reduce water scale and mineral deposits in the tank. Where I live a gallon of distilled water is about 65 cents.

[RootsRadical]

I, too, own the VX-5000. Once you get the hang of it, it really saves time on interior detailing. It`s pretty expensive, though, but starts to pay for itself as you use it. For example, you won`t need to purchase glass cleaning product anymore because the steam works perfectly on its own. It`s great for dirty carpets and fabrics but not for anything too filthy as you`d be better of with an extractor for those jobs.

I`ve also used it for engine detailing. Works well as long as you can find lint-free towels. Unfortunately, it`s gone up about $100 since I purchased it - but still a good option if you are able to drop $800.

-J

[rzatch]

I know a lot of you guys use steamers and have no problem with them but I still have reservations about using them around all the electronics that I see them used on. I just know my luck.

[Paul Sparks]

Doctordon`s post was spot on and to the point. I finally stepped up to a vx5000 which I was lucky enough to find used at a very reduced price from another member.Craigslist can be your friend. I can`t comment on the other cheaper models available but in most cases hot steam from any machine is better IMO then none at all. I use mine on interior windows , consoles , vents , seat tracks and door panels especially around seams and door latches. If mine died tomorrow I would be lost until I got a replacement.