A steam cleaner might not be part of your usual cleaning routine, but if you're looking for easier, speedier ways to clean while cutting back on harsh chemicals, they're well worth considering. These nifty devices use just water and heat to cut through dirt, grease, and bacteria, and while most people reach for them for kitchen worktops, they're also brilliant for cleaning glass and windows.
The ASSCA handheld steam cleaner is a great option-and one we've actually tried ourselves. And right now, it's discounted to £39.99 (down from £49.99) on Amazon, making it a great time to put one to the test.
We had one of our Express testers give it a go a few months back, tackling various areas around their home, including the windows.
They used it on their outside windows with the squeegee and one of the brush nozzles. They said: "It got rid of all the black grime with no effort. I had it up and running within seven minutes."
The different heads are fully interchangeable, and the window squeegee works by spreading the steam across the surface, then using the rigid edge to remove residue and leave the glass sparkling.
On Amazon, the cleaners also racked up reviews from shoppers who've seen similarly impressive results on their windows. One reviewer said, "It took me about half an hour to clean each window, but now they are like new. I did not know I needed a steam cleaner until I used this one. The pressure is good, as are the results."
Another added: "Have used it for cleaning conservatory windows and works like a charm. Even coverage with attachments provided for thorough steam cleaning."
The ASSCA model is designed to be used safely on a variety of surfaces, including ceramic, marble, sealed wood, tiles, sinks, sofas, toys, car interiors, and of course, glass. So instead of reaching for a vinegar-and-water mix and scrubbing until your arm gives out, this little machine can banish dirt and leave everything looking sparkling.
Here's how it works: the steamer heats water in its 350ml tank (you'll want to fill it to 280ml, as recommended) to around 110°C, releasing high-pressure steam that shifts grime in seconds.
It comes with six nozzles-including bent and straight jets, brush attachments for stubborn, baked-on residue-plus a window squeegee and an ironing brush for fabrics.
It has a built-in tank you fill with tap water, and once switched on, it heats to between 100 and 120C. That water then turns into pressurised steam, which is released through a nozzle, mop head, or brush. The hot vapour lifts dirt and kills germs in seconds-most models, including this one, claim to remove 99.9% of common bacteria like E. coli and salmonella just by holding the steam over the area for a few seconds.
While upright steam cleaners are better suited for large floor areas, handheld versions like the ASSCA are perfect for more detailed jobs-think kitchen counters, grouting, tiles, furniture, upholstery, and windows.
It also has a child-safety lock, a 9.8m cord, and takes about three minutes to heat up.
That said, a few users did mention that the steam runs out fairly quickly and that the machine needs to cool for at least five minutes before you can refill it.
One of the best things about this steam cleaner, though, is its versatility: it's not just for windows. Our tester also gave it a go on a high chair that had definitely seen better days. They said: "No matter how much I wipe it down, some bits always get missed and stuff gets stuck, especially in the crevices."
They continued: "It was so easy. The stains just lifted off. I didn't have to scrub at all. It got rid of dirt in seconds with a simple blast and wipe."
Another Amazon customer wrote: "I bought the ASSCA handheld steam cleaner mainly to tackle the greasy mess on my kitchen hood, and it did not disappoint! This compact unit heats up quickly and blasts out a strong stream of steam that cuts through stubborn grease and grime without needing any chemicals."
Again, a few people have pointed out that the steam runs out fairly quickly and needs a five-minute cool-down before refilling, but for quick cleaning jobs around the house, it's a small compromise.
To clean windows with a steam cleaner, start by steaming the pane from top to bottom with the appropriate nozzle or cloth attachment to loosen dirt.
Then, use a squeegee or a microfibre cloth to wipe the water away, working from top to bottom to avoid streaks. A final buff with a dry microfibre cloth should help to ensure a streak-free shine.
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