Guide to using the steam cleaner for seasonal cleaning

When the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to get your home organised and focus on those corners and surfaces often overlooked throughout the year. Seasonal cleaning gives you the opportunity to take your time and remove built-up dirt, stubborn residue, bacteria, mould and dust mites that tend to accumulate in less visible areas.

Steam cleaning is especially effective in these situations, as heat helps loosen stubborn dirt and allows you to clean a variety of surfaces without the need for harsh detergents. You don’t need a large appliance for this type of cleaning: a compact, portable steam cleaner is all it takes to reach even the most difficult areas.

What is the portable steam cleaner   

A portable steam cleaner is a compact device that uses heated water to generate high-temperature steam. The jet of steam loosens dirt, softens even the most stubborn residue and helps clean surfaces effectively.

The Girmi AP31 model is designed for everyday household cleaning as well as more precise tasks during seasonal deep cleaning. Its compact size and lightweight design (1.24 kg) make it easy to handle and carry from room to room, even with one hand.

The boiler operates at a pressure between 1.5 and 4 bar, while the tank has a capacity of 350 ml. It takes just 3–4 minutes to heat up and provides approximately 10 minutes of continuous use per refill.

The steam burst reaches 30 grams per minute, which is sufficient for cleaning a variety of domestic surfaces. The cleaner is equipped with a 3-metre-long cable, which provides a wide range of movement.

How to use the steam cleaner accessories

The portable steam cleaner comes with a range of accessories, each designed for a specific cleaning task.

The precision nozzle focuses the steam for targeted cleaning. It is ideal for removing dirt from tile joints, hob edges and narrow grooves.

The flexible hose extends your reach, making it easier and more comfortable to clean hard-to-reach areas.

• Round brush: features firm bristles that help remove encrusted dirt while the steam softens it
• 90° nozzle: allows you to work effectively in tight corners and narrow spaces, such as around fixtures and tiles
• Wide brush with cloth: suitable for cleaning larger surfaces
• Window attachment: can be fitted onto the wide brush and is designed for smooth surfaces. It is particularly effective on glass, mirrors and shower enclosures, leaving them clean and streak-free

Advantages of steam cleaning

One of the main advantages of steam cleaning is that it uses only water. No chemical detergents are required, and no residues are left on surfaces, making it an eco-friendly and safe way to clean your home.

Steam can penetrate cracks and small surface irregularities, reaching areas that sponges and cloths cannot easily access. Its fine particles help remove dirt and bacteria embedded deep within surfaces.

The high temperature also enhances hygiene. Steam helps reduce germs and bacteria on a variety of household surfaces, making it especially useful in areas such as the kitchen and bathroom.

What can be cleaned with the steam cleaner?

A portable steam cleaner is useful in many situations around the home.

In the kitchen, it can be used to clean hobs, racks and ovens, where steam effectively removes grease and food residue. For tile joints, concentrated steam helps eliminate dirt and buildup that accumulates over time.

In the bathroom, it is ideal for tiles, shower enclosures, taps and fixtures. Steam softens limescale and soap residue, making cleaning easier.

The window attachment can be used on glass and mirrors, leaving surfaces clean and streak-free.

Steam can also be used on carpets and upholstery to refresh fabrics and help remove stains and allergens. It is effective on sofas, armchairs and mattresses, helping reduce dust mites and dust.

It is also suitable for curtains and upholstery, as steam refreshes fabrics without the need to remove them.

Even everyday objects, such as toys, can be sanitised with steam.