Does steam really kill germs?
You bet it does. Besides its amazing cleaning power and efficiency, steam cleaning also kills bacteria, viruses, molds and other micro-organisms.
How does steam kill germs?
To sanitize, aim the steam at the surface to reach a minimum of 175ºF for a minimum of five seconds at a close range. The temperature of the steam at ½ inch from the nozzle of Steam steam cleaners is actually much higher- more like 220ºF.
Yes, but can you prove it?
In our independent lab tests against a leading household countertop cleaner, Steamwas almost twice as effective at eliminating bacteria and other microorganisms (kill rate of 65% versus 36%). Against a leading toilet bowl cleaner, Steam again outperformed the leading brand (kill rate 97% versus 85%). In both instances the lab noted that longer exposure to steam heat results in higher kill rates.
The lab further noted: “Scientific literature also indicates that steam heat is effective in the removal of bacterial biofilms.